Here, under the mountain side, cold and against the backdrop of brick walls and mud, an extraordinary tapestry of Australia’s history and women’s stories unfolded. You’ll embark on a journey through time and delve into the captivating narrative of the women and their children imprisoned at the World Heritage listed Cascades Female Factory historic site in South Hobart.

Women were incarcerated here in the shadow of kunanyi / Mount Wellington as punishment, to be reformed, or while waiting to be assigned. Guards, nurses and babies all play a part in the tales you’ll hear.

Imagine the echoes of their footsteps as they traversed the grounds, their hearts imbued with an unwavering determination to transcend their circumstances. Behind the gates, an ecosystem of skill and industry thrived, as these women, with grit and fortitude, side by side and in solitude, carving a path to a brighter future for all women.

Weave the narratives into the tapestry of your own adventures with a visit to the Cascades Female Factory. You can take one of the daily guided tours or wander through at your own pace.

​​16 Degraves Street, 
South Hobart

femalefactory.org.au
1800 139 478