The City of Clarence recently had the honour of hosting Her Excellency the Honourable Caroline Wells, Governor of Tasmania, and Dr Rob Walters RFD for an official visit on Wednesday, September 2, 2026. The visit provided a significant opportunity to showcase the Eastern Shore municipality’s diverse communities, rich cultural life, natural environment, dedicated community organisations, and thriving local enterprises.

Governor Wells, who was sworn in as Tasmania’s 30th Governor on June 17, 2026, was accompanied by her partner, Dr Rob Walters RFD, a respected General Practitioner and senior defence medical officer.

The Vice-Regal couple was welcomed to the council chambers by Clarence Mayor Brendan Blomeley and City of Clarence Chief Executive Officer Ian Nelson. During their time at the chambers, they received an overview of Clarence’s social and economic landscape.

The extensive itinerary included a visit to Rosny Farm, where the Governor and Dr Walters met staff and learned about its pivotal role as a cultural hub for Clarence. Discussions focused on the site’s heritage, arts and events program, youth services, and future plans to enhance it as a creative and cultural precinct under the City Heart Plan.

Further engagements saw the Governor and Dr Walters visit the Risdon Vale Neighbourhood Centre. Here, they connected with staff, volunteers, and community members involved in the centre’s wide array of programs and support services, which include food relief, community meals, children’s programs, and a community garden.

The visit also included a meeting with members of the Military Brotherhood Military Motorcycle Club Tasmania South at the Risdon Vale Hall, learning about their vital work in supporting serving and former Australian Defence Force personnel, veterans, and their families.

Sport and tourism were also on the agenda, with a tour of the 7 Mile Beach Golf Club. Her Excellency and Dr Walters heard about the vision behind the course and its growing contribution to recreation, tourism, and the local economy.

The day concluded with a civic reception hosted by Mayor Blomeley at Killara Distillery in Richmond. The reception was attended by representatives from government, local businesses, and community groups, providing a chance for further interaction and discussion.

Speaking at the reception, Governor Wells thanked Mayor Blomeley and the City of Clarence staff for facilitating the visit, and all those who shared their experiences. She emphasised the importance of connection – to community, place, and one another – as a key message from her visit. Mayor Blomeley, in turn, thanked the Governor and Dr Walters for their time, expressing pride in the city and its people.

For more details on the Governor’s visit, readers can refer to the original report by the Eastern Shore Sun.