Ep 29. Tasmania - Paradise at the End of the World

Tasmania - Paradise at the End of the World is the twenty-ninth episode of season one of the ORF Universum Documentaries series. The episode revolves around the wilderness of Tasmania, the southernmost state of Australia. The documentary explores the unique and diverse wildlife, landscape, and culture of the island.

The episode begins by introducing Tasmania's history as a penal colony for British convicts before delving into the present-day allure of the island. The stunning natural beauty of Tasmania is showcased through breathtaking aerial shots of the rugged coastline, towering mountains, lush rainforests, and crystal-clear lakes. The show takes the viewers on a journey through the diverse ecosystems of Tasmania, from the open seas, where humpback whales and pods of dolphins roam, to the glacial mountain tops, where the last remnant of Tasmanian alpine herb fields can be found.

The documentary also highlights the unique wildlife of the island. Tasmania is home to some of the world's most fascinating and endangered species, such as the Tasmanian devil, the eastern quoll, and the eastern barred bandicoot. The episode follows the daily activities of these animals and captures some remarkable footage of their elusive behavior in the wild. It also features the distinctive birdlife of Tasmania, such as the yellow wattlebird, the noisy scrub-bird, and the forty-spotted pardalote.

In addition to its rich wildlife, Tasmania has a unique and vibrant culture that is showcased in the documentary. The episode features the ancient rock art of the aboriginal people and provides a glimpse into their historic way of life. It also explores the modern-day culture of Tasmania, from the music scene to the thriving gourmet food industry. The show follows the journey of local fishermen as they harvest Tasmania's acclaimed seafood for the markets and restaurants of the world.

Throughout the episode, the documentary presents a message of the importance of preserving Tasmania's fragile ecosystem. It highlights the efforts of conservationists, who are working to safeguard the island's unique biodiversity and prevent the degradation of its natural resources. The show also imparts the urgent need to reduce the negative impact of climate change on Tasmania's fragile ecosystem.

Overall, Tasmania - Paradise at the End of the World is an excellent documentary that offers a comprehensive and visually stunning exploration of the unique ecosystem and fascinating culture of Tasmania. The show provides a thought-provoking analysis of the importance of conservation and environmental protection, making it a must-watch for nature and wildlife enthusiasts.