In 1942 the world was at war, yet the three hundredth anniversary (tercentenary) of Tasman’s discoveries was celebrated, both in Tasmania and in Sydney.

The official activities included:

• 29 Nov 1942Special service at Scots Church (St Andrews), Hobart
• 3 Dec 1942Unveiling, by His Excellency the Netherlands Minister (Baron F C van Aerssen Beyeren van Voshol MWO) of the Tasman Memorial, Dunalley.
• 4 Dec 1942Opening of a new wing at the Hobart Technical College and unveiling of a mural tablet inscribed “Abel J Tasman” as the future designation of the wing. Planting of trees at Princes Wharf
• 5 Dec 1942Tercentenary Royal Hobart Regatta Carnival, at which the Chief Commissioner for the Netherlands East Indies Commission unveiled a commemorative tablet (on the grandstand)
• 6 Dec 1942Dedication at Campbell Town of an avenue of trees, and planting of three memorial trees by the Chief Commissioner for the Netherlands East Indies Commission, Dr J E van Hoogstraten.
• 7 Dec 1942Unveiling of a tablet at the Public Buildings, St John St, Launceston, by His Excellency, the Governor.

In Sydney, two Italian prisoners of war recreated the map of the world as known to Tasman (including his discoveries). The map was a copy of an original in the floor of the New Church on the Dam in Amsterdam. It is in mosaic form in the floor of the Mitchell Library, Sydney.

In 1892 there were some celebrations to mark the 250th anniversary. On this occasion a stone, with suitable inscription, was laid in the Church of England Cathedral on 12th January 1892. When the tower was constructed some years later, the stone was moved and can now be found facing Macquarie Street.

In 1838 The Royal Hobart Regatta was held for the first time. It was proposed by Sir John Franklin, partly to commemorate the anniversary of Tasman’s discovery.

~ Kees Wierenga