Sick of winter? You’re not alone—most Aussies would fast-forward through it if they could. But in Tasmania, they’re doing the opposite
The state has just launched Winternships: ten short-term roles designed to help you lean into the cold rather than fight it. Think: stoking saunas on a floating pontoon, babysitting nocturnal marsupials, hosting a bush doof for goats, or bottling the scent of winter air on Bruny Island.
It’s weird, wholesome, and entirely Tassie. Each Winternship includes travel, accommodation, and the kind of seasonal personality shift that might just turn you into a wool-sock-wearing, cold-plunge-loving winter convert.
Applications are open until June 17 – just choose your role and write 50 words on why you’re ready to embrace the chill. No experience necessary, just a curiosity for what winter could be if you stopped hiding from it.
Tourism Tasmania CEO Sarah Clark says the program is a love letter to Tassie’s coldest months: “We don’t just endure winter—we celebrate it.” And if you have been to Lutruwita – you’ll know this to be wholly true, because nobody does winter like the Tassies.
Here’s what’s on offer:
Sauna Skipper – Kuuma Nature Sauna
Keep a floating wood-fired sauna running on North West Bay. You’ll tend the fire, chat with guests, and help people embrace the icy dip that comes after a steamy session. It’s equal parts serene and freezing.
Devil Sitter – Devils@Cradle
You’ll be on evening duty with a group of famously feisty Tasmanian devils. The role involves feeding, monitoring, and observing these nocturnal locals. No childcare experience necessary – just an interest in wildlife and a tolerance for screeching.
Goat Doofer – Hideaway Farmlet
At this small farm in Penguin, you’ll help host a miniature bush doof – for goats. Duties include general farm help, event prep, and making sure the tiny herd behaves while the humans dance. Yes, really.
Trail Trialler – Blue Derby Pods Ride
Spend a couple of days testing out some of the country’s best mountain biking trails in Derby. You’ll be off-grid and on two wheels, helping the team refine their guest experience during Tasmania’s off season.
Calf Concierge – Borradale Stanley
Help care for newborn calves and lambs on this working farm. You’ll be up early, bottle-feeding, keeping an eye out for births, and generally making sure the farm’s youngest residents get a good start.
Scenic Seat-Warmer – Gorge Scenic Chairlift
Help operate the historic chairlift at Cataract Gorge in Launceston. It’s about ensuring the system runs smoothly and safely while visitors take in the dramatic winter views.
Tunnel to Table Taster – Tunnel Hill Mushrooms
Work in a former railway tunnel turned mushroom farm. You’ll get hands-on with growing, harvesting, and tasting the fungi that end up on local restaurant menus. A good gig if you like food, darkness, and damp air.
Barrel Butler – McHenry Distillery
Assist at Australia’s southernmost whisky distillery, based in the Tasman Peninsula. Expect whisky tastings, barrel checks, and insights into how climate impacts flavour. Warm layers essential.
Fragrance Forager – Undersong Perfumery
Join a perfumery on Bruny Island in collecting and distilling seasonal scents. You’ll help gather ingredients, experiment with blends, and learn how to turn winter air into something bottleable.
Splinter Specialist – Huon Pine Shop and Creative Paper Tasmania
Learn the ropes of traditional woodworking and papermaking in Strahan. You’ll be sanding, carving, and pulping your way through locally sourced materials – ideal for anyone who likes to keep their hands busy.
Winternship applications here.
