Sisters Beach

Where is the Sisters Beach Pause Place Located?

The Sisters Beach Pause Place is situated near the mouth of Sisters Creek, offering easy access to the pristine beach and the natural beauty of the surrounding Rocky Cape National Park.

A short walk from the Pause Place takes you to the village shop and café, making it a convenient spot to relax and refuel.

With its proximity to walking tracks and stunning coastal views, this Pause Place is an ideal starting point for exploring the unique landscape of Sisters Beach.

The History of Sisters Beach

The land surrounding Sisters Beach has a rich and enduring history, deeply connected to the palawa people, specifically the Tommeginer tribe of Table Cape. Archaeological evidence at nearby Rocky Cape point dates human activity in the area back at least 8,000 years, showcasing continuous occupation even before Tasmania was separated from mainland Australia.

This foundation is not lost and remains in the landscapes and in the stories of the indigenous people but understanding it is difficult for many of us, who are unfamiliar with the lore and culture of the first peoples.

A little more of the indigenous history of this region can be found on the Waratah-Wynyard Council’s website here.

In 1830, Augustus Robinson camped at Sisters Beach while gathering Aboriginal people from the region. During this time, Robinson documented the names used by the local Aboriginal people for the area: Sisters Creek was called munrawna, Sisters Island was layranti, and Rocky Cape was pinmatik.

These names reflect the profound connection the Tommeginer tribe had with the land and sea, interpreting and respecting its intrinsic values in ways still evident in the landscape today.

Acknowledgement

We acknowledge the history of this land extends far beyond the time of European settlement and that this land has been looked on and lived on by people from different cultures and with different perspectives. We appreciate that the history shared on this website has gaps, telling some stories in far more detail than others. In particular, we are aware that there are many stories to be told of the first peoples of this land and that these fascinating and important stories warrant respectfully celebrating.

Consequently, please consider this website as a work in progress. We will seek to improve our understanding and share as much of these insights and stories as can be done in a manner that is appropriate and respects the first peoples of this land.

Thank you for your patience.

Modern History of Sisters Beach

Sisters Beach has transformed over time, evolving from an isolated stretch of coastline into a beloved holiday destination. The first European settlers arrived in 1934 when the Irby family built a log cabin and constructed a track from the Boat Harbour turnoff. By the 1950s, the beach had become a popular retreat, with about 25 shacks dotting the area.

In 1967, the surrounding Rocky Cape National Park was declared to protect its significant archaeological sites, intact heathland, coastal woodland, and abundant wildlife, including Tasmanian devils, bandicoots, and quolls. Today, Sisters Beach is not only a gateway to this protected area but also a vibrant community of holiday homes and permanent residents, drawing visitors for its natural beauty and recreational opportunities.