Originally established as a garrison in 1821, Ross was laid out as a town, but was not proclaimed as such until 1847.
Situated 120 kms from Hobart, and 80 kms from Launceston, it is a popular stopping point for tourists.
Ross was visited and named by Governor Lachlan Macquarie in 1821, at a time when the area was known as Argyle Plains. The Macquarie River flows by the township.
Ross is one of Tasmania's finest heritage villages, registered on the National Estate. It has a fine collection of well-preserved Georgian buildings and architecture, with most buildings of historic value. The Ross Bridge (completed 1836) is a fascinating sandstone bridge, ordered by Governor Arthur, designed by John Lee Archer, and embellished with unique carvings by convict, Daniel Herbert. The Ross Bridge is the 3rd oldest in Australia. Once pardoned, Herbert married and lived in Ross, and is buried there.
The remains of the old female factory, a prison for women between 1847 and 1854, are open to the public. The female factory housed 12,000 female convicts during this period.
The unique and exquisitely carved Ross Bridge was completed in 1836 and is the third oldest and one of the finest sandstone bridges in Australia.
There are 186 Celtic inspired carvngs across the six arches of the bridge depicting many symbois. flora, fauna and faces of notable characters of its time.
After construction delays of more than three years, convict stonemasons James Colebeck and Daniel Herbert were assigned as overseers. Tempted by conditional pardons offered by Lt Governor George Arthur tor a speedy conclusion, the proJect took approximately eighteen months more to finish.
Daniel Hertbert is attributed as the artist of the carved designs and sculptor of approximateiy eighty icons, the rest were completed by other convict bridge workers under Herbert's instructions.
James Colebeck’s attributed as the Master Stonemason and the soundness and strength of the bridge to this date is a testament to his skill.
Council has established the Ross Local District Committee as a Special Committee of Council. Special Committees have also been established at Perth, Campbell Town, Evandale, Longford, Cressy and Avoca, Royal George & Rossarden.
The committee meets monthly, key objectives are to:
- Provide a focal point for information between the Northern Midlands Council and the local community;
- Identify and prioritise needs of the local community;
- Consider and provide feedback to the Northern Midlands Council in respect to key strategic issues for the local community.
Residents and representatives from community interest groups are invited to nominate for membership of the Local District Committee.
Membership appointment is for a 2-year term, the term of membership commences in July and concludes in June. Current membership expires at 30 June 2018.
Further information in relation to the Campbell Town District Forum is available on Council's website or contact Executive & Communications Officer Lorraine Wyatt
