Waddamana Power Station Museum

As several reviewers have commented - surely one of Tasmania's best kept secrets. Incredible range of exhibitions to satisfy not just the technical curious, but anyone with an interest in the history of the mid 1900's

The electrical and technical items on display - everything from the smallest insulator or electronic component to the impeccably maintained main hall with all machines intact - would see an enthusiast happily while away several hours, or the simply curious a quick whip around in 30 minutes or so.

A fascinating social history time capsule too thanks to the extensive display of memorabilia, kitchen appliances, household items from that same period will engage the non-technical inclined visitor for an hour easily. It really is that good.

Friendly volunteers on site give a quick, but very worthwhile introduction to the history of the facility before you head in to a self direct wander through the extensive facility.

Two things I would do differently on a return trip. Firstly have several hours to just wander and, frankly, geek out. Secondly - would make a point of driving in and out on the C178 from the Shannon/Steppes end. An easier drive with more sealed roads and breathtaking alpine scenery along the way including the two lakes that provided water to the plant when in operation.

That said, the route from the south/Hobart end is very well maintained, but it does warrant more measured driving as much of it is single lane with limited visibility.

The cafe in the township appears to be a weekend only thing, but a packed lunch would solve that issue any other day. Absolutely a must visit - not an observation I make lightly.

Free public Wifi on site is welcome given the patchy/non-existent cellphone coverage.

Ian was really good at giving us a history of the dam. We enjoyed looking and exploring the well kept grounds. There is some coffee in the video room for 2 dollars if you need. The drive was a little tricky without an offroader on the gravel. Do be careful.

*Advice! If you’re using maps, download offline maps before coming here because there is no service.
Found this location after looking at map of Tasmania and lists of unique places. This caught my attention as it seemed like such an interesting spot!
There are two ways going to the Power Station - make sure to select which one suits you (northern or southern road). The road to the south is longer, but the road is in better condition as the north road is well used. Roads are unsealed. We managed fine in a sedan but weather was mild today.

I was quite awestruck as we approach the station as the view up the hill of the pipes and the sizes of everything! An amazing sight. A beautiful heritage building.
On arrival, we were greeted by a gentleman that gave us a detailed description of the history and important facts of the location. He was very knowledgeable and we were able to ask any questions we needed. You could tell he is passionate about this location which was made our experience great! Thank you very much!

The site was really fascinating to walk through. So much history in the one location. I loved all of the old photos on display and being able to stand in the same location a photo was taken. I was in the switch room and was able to imagine the workers years ago and it was a powerful experience. I was able to learn how hydro power works!
Everything was great!
Thank you for having us.

Even though this location is out the way, if you have time - I recommend coming to have a look. I’m glad I can remember going to visit here.

You reach this free museum down around 17ks of well-maintained dirt road. It's a fascinating place that gives a unique look into the history of Tasmanian hydro power - really well kept, stuffed full of interesting things, and featuring an enthusiastic volunteer/manager/bloke who gave us a run-through of the history of the place on our arrival. Well worth the trip.

We ventured to explore the Highlands Power trail stopping into the Waddamana Power Station Heritage Site. Ian the guide gave us a very informative briefing on the Great Lake power scheme with Waddamana being the centrepiece & Hydro Tasmania’s first power station. It was founded on a farmer’s vision at the start of the 1900s.
As we toured through the station we marvelled at the nine mighty Pelton wheel turbines connected to powerful generators that first began generating electricity over a century ago. Another thing we marvelled at was the Redgate Tramway. The ingenuity of the horse-drawn wooden tramway was remarkable.

This is worth the visit. There is no charge and the history lesson is priceless. Ian explained the story of Tasmanian hydro and the history of the various stations.

This is definitely worth driving down the unsealed road to get here. It is a fantastic part of history. The museum is surprisingly free. The man at the front to greet you is very hospitable and patient, with a fantastic knowledge of the place. Ask him anything. Every part of the museum is well sign posted. It's amazing walking through it. You also learn what life was like to live in the area too. They have a movie room with plenty of short documentaries for you to watch. One of our favourite places on our holiday.

What an amazing place! The upkeep of this important part of Tasmanian and Australian hydroelectric heritage was beautiful. Great way to spend a couple of hours. Thank you to the caretaker also for his knowledge and willingness to share the history. You will not be disappointed with any part of it. Had a great time.

This is the best place to visit how does the Hydro Electricity Power plant work. Many things to learn. Very friendly staff and explains about the power plant.

Thomas the guide was friendly and knowledgeable. A beautiful setup with lots to look at and learn.

We visit this place whenever we go to the lakes, absolutely brilliant. Plenty to see, everything is well maintained, free entry.

Highly recommended. A bit out of the way but it's a free museum as it is funded by Hydro TAS, and it's like stepping back in time 50 years. It has been preserved very well and the exhibits are excellent. Additionally you can walk around and touch and feel all of the old machinery, which is uncommon

Wow! Such a great place to visit. If you are into history, machinery or just want a great place to learn about the hydro industry it well worth a visit.
The gravel road in was well maintained and easily to drive in a 2wd.
Just check their site for opening times.
Great picnic spot with BBQ and table.

What an amazing place, we were met at the door by Ian, one of the knowledgeable volunteers who gave us a great introduction to the Power Station. The explanations and displays were fantastic. Absolutely loved it and would highly recommend it. Another superb part of Tasmanian history

A brilliant museum and site to visit. We had a fantastic and informative intro from Ian then explored the rooms and displays. The section on the village and life in the past was really interesting. Great to get up close with the old generator equipment in the main hall. It’s worth the drive and views on the road in and out as well.

I loved this place and spent hours in there. Good free camping up the hill on the lagoon. Plenty of history around

Four men with a dream and the vision to power Tasmania over a century ago is amazing. For history buffs it's a must.

Rare history and fascinating story. There are very few hydro power facilities intact from 100 years ago that you can visit and this one comes with a friendly greeting and a great story too. Free entry.

Well worth the visit. Be prepared for a long gravel road drive - shorter if you come from the lake side.

Awesome display of the infrastructure of the now decommissioned historical hydro power station. Also has an impressive and diverse display of early 1900s electrical goods. It's a nice country road drive in coming from the south.

Interesting history. Friendly greeting with useful brief summary of the site, self guided tour. Lots of info available or can just look at all the cool mech&tech. Free entry.