Winds smash historic Woolnorth in Tasmania’s north-west

STRONG winds have wreaked havoc at the historic property Woolnorth in Tasmania’s far north-west.

Tourism Woolnorth old prison building

STRONG winds have wreaked havoc at the historic property Woolnorth in the state’s far north-west.

Van Diemen’s Land Company managing director Trevor Westacott said the area had been secured and everyone was safe, however one family had to be relocated until further notice.

Some of the workers live at the property.

He described the weather early yesterday morning as tornado-like.

“It virtually decimated the 1860s jail house/store, shredded the school bus and damaged other farm buildings, stables and the main office,” Mr Westacott said.

“The old jail/store had its roof stripped and part of a brick wall blown over. The building most likely will need demolishing.

“Fortunately the 1832 Cook House Cottage was untouched. The majority of the damage was to farming buildings.”