The Big Hazelnuts
Height
Unknown
Year Built
Address
Hagley, TAS 7292
The Lowdown
The Big Hazelnuts mark Hagley as the heart of Australia's hazelnut industry, celebrating the rich nuts that thrive in Tasmania's cool climate. Hagley, in the northern Tasmanian Midlands, has become synonymous with high-quality hazelnuts since farmers discovered the region's climate and soils perfectly suit these European trees. Tasmania now produces the majority of Australia's hazelnuts, with Hagley orchards supplying nuts for chocolate, baking, and gourmet products. The Big Hazelnuts invite travellers to explore this nutty industry and taste the locally made hazelnut products.
Did you know?
"Tasmania produces most of Australia's hazelnuts"
History
Hazelnuts have been grown in Tasmania since the 1950s, but the industry expanded significantly from the 1990s onwards. Tasmania's cool climate, with adequate winter chill and reliable rainfall, mimics the Mediterranean conditions where hazelnuts originate. Hagley emerged as the centre of Australian hazelnut production, with orchards spreading across the rolling farmland. Today, Tasmanian hazelnuts are prized for their rich flavour and are used in premium chocolates, desserts, and oils. The Big Hazelnuts celebrate this successful agricultural diversification.
More Fun Facts
- •Tasmania produces most of Australia's hazelnuts
- •Hazelnut trees take about 4 years to produce their first crop
- •Hazelnuts are also called filberts or cobnuts
- •The trees need 800-1200 chill hours in winter to fruit well
- •Tasmanian hazelnuts are harvested in autumn
Visiting Tips
- 💡Look for local hazelnut products at Tasmanian food shops
- 💡The Entally Estate historic homestead is nearby
- 💡Deloraine's markets sell local produce
- 💡The Great Western Tiers provide a scenic backdrop
Opening Hours
Outdoor sculpture accessible at all times.
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