Mount Wellington and the sense of place

Mount Wellington is a major feature of the topography of Hobart and the surrounding area. This study was undertaken to describe the significance of Mount Wellington using a phenomenological approach. As part of everyday living, people obviously and unavoidably develop relationships with places. The nature of these relationships, the essential qualities of place and the sense of place were described with reference to phenomenological studies of place. It was suggested that people form emotional bonds with places that are important for both the individual and for society as a whole. The history of mountains indicates that they have been important places, often engendering a sense of reverence and providing spiritual replenishment. The significance of mountains in general was described with reference to Martin Heidegger's writings. Mountains most obviously reflect Heidegger's notion of 'the fourfold' and by 'thinking like a mountain', they may manifest 'Being'. The significance of Mount Wellington was investigated with reference to its physical setting, the activities pursued on it and its more general meanings: the essential qualities of a place. Some artistic depictions of Mount Wellington's various poses were described. Early portrayals tended to focus on topographical idealism whilst later depictions often sought to emphasise the deeper meanings that Mount Wellington engenders. The many activities that people have pursued on Mount Wellington presented a diversity of relationships that people have developed with it. It was suggested that certain activities are more conducive to sensing the essence of Mount Wellington whilst the pursuit of others ignores this essence. The deeper meanings of Mount Wellington were described and it was noted that Mount Wellington has great significance for Hobartians. These meanings become apparent through authentic dwelling.