An Aussie Odyssey part 3 – Tasmania

Tasmania is the coolest region in Australia, both literally and metaphorically. Here, the resident devils evidently prefer frosty temperatures to the burning flames of hell. (This photograph was taken at the Bonorong wildlife sanctuary, where efforts are underway to preserve the species, which has since the 1990s been devastated by a cancerous disease.)

Tasmania's low temperatures are thanks in part to the cold sea water that envelops the island. On land the average temperature for the growing season is merely 14.4 ºC (57.9 ºF). Little wonder then that sparkling wine is one of Tasmania's main strengths, and accounts for...