Hobart Observer April 2021

A FREE PUBLICATION FOR THE HOBART MUNICIPALITY

APRIL 2021

Independently owned and published by Cor Comms

To stupidity and beyond AFTER a year hiatus, the Uni Revue will return to the Theatre Royal in May for a fun night of laughter, dancing, singing and acting.

In the Old Nick Company’s 74th year of hosting the review, the production is titled ‘Tool Story’ – a parody of much-loved children’s animated movie, ‘Toy Story’ – and will take aim at Donald Trump’s term as President of the United States of America, as well as have a more local focus on Tasmanian politics.

THE FULL STORY PAGE 2

From left, April Thompson as Melanie Trump and Thomas Taylor as Donald Trump/Buzz Lightyear.

TIP DUCK DEBUT AT SALAMANCA

TERRAPIN Puppet Theatre debuted its new public space performance of ‘Tip Duck’ at Salamanca Market in mid-March with there set to be more shows throughout the year.

Terrapin artistic director Sam Routledge said ‘Tip Duck’ featured a giant ibis puppet called Ibsen, who had Performer Noah Casey with Ibsen the ibis.

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been trained to collect rubbish with messy and hilarious consequences.

‘Tip Duck’ follows Terrapin’s successful seasons of ‘The Ubus’ and ‘Covid Busters’ in Launceston and Hobart as part of the company’s COVID recovery strategy to reach Tasmanians and interstate visitors at outdoor festivals and events.

STORY CONTINUES PAGE 2

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2 Hobart Observer APRIL 2021

Community News

Treatment of women

Anna Reynolds City of Hobart, Lord Mayor IF you’ve been following the news recently, I imagine you will have seen a lot of discussion about the treatment of women in national politics.

Unfortunately, many of the issues that are being raised at federal level are also relevant within local government.

Women who are elected to local councils around Tasmania are often the target of unfair, disrespectful personal criticism focused on how they speak, what they wear, or how they look.

It is unacceptable, and it’s time for it to stop.

More than 30 Tasmanian leaders – including Mayors, Deputy Mayors, Councillors and Aldermen – have recently issued a joint statement calling for safe workplaces and respect for women in local government.

The statement has been signed by both male and female elected representatives from across the political spectrum, and we hope it represents the first step on a journey of tangible actions to improve workplace safety in our democratic institutions.

There is nothing wrong with robust

public debate focused on the issues of the day, but in the Tasmanian political sphere, especially on social media, it often goes too far.

We see offensive comments, bullying, and harassment – all of which are disproportionately targeted at women.

In 2019, the Local Government Association of Tasmania (LGAT) conducted a survey about online abuse.

A third of elected members responded, and 60 per cent of those reported that they had experienced harassment or bullying online – including, shockingly, from other elected members.

The signatories of the joint statement hope to work with the State Government and LGAT to develop a full toolkit of options for dealing with online abuse.

It’s vital that we ensure the current protocols around social media training, mediation and disciplinary processes remain fit for purpose, so that when issues do arise, there is a clear way to deal with them.

It’s going to take a concerted effort to make local politics a more welcoming place for women, but I believe that by working together and leading by example we can do it.

Performer Noah Casey with Ibsen the ibis.

TIP DUCK DEBUT AT SALAMANCA FROM FRONT PAGE

“This year is another big year for Terrapin as we move into COVID recovery, reaching

Tasmanians state-wide,” Mr Routledge said.

“Through works like ‘Tip Duck’ and Scaredy Cat, which will tour Tasmanian schools

this year, we aim to give all Tasmanians an opportunity to see our work.

“Ibsen the puppet was designed by Bryony

Anderson.”

‘Tip Duck’ was made possible through the support of the RISE Fund – an Australian Government initiative

– and the Australian Government’s Regional Arts Fund, which supports the arts in regional and remote Australia.

To stupidity and beyond FROM FRONT PAGE

The show will open at the Theatre Royal in Hobart on 7 May and run to 22 May before heading to the Princess Theatre from 27 to 29 May. Tool Story director Helen Cronin said there was about 21 people taking part in the production.

“We’re really excited, it’s great to be back,” she said.

“It’s one of the best shows you can be in and

be involved with.

“It’s fun, it’s bright, we poke fun at people, and we get away with things that most people aren’t allowed to get away with.”

For Darcy Inglis, Tool Story will be the first time he has been on stage performing.

“I was lucky enough to see a Uni Revue in 2008 and then the Lyin’ King in 2019 as well, so I had a fair idea of what I was getting myself into, but it’s a show unlike any other,” he said.

“I’m so happy to be part of something so uniquely Tasmanian, as well as something that’s getting me out of my comfort zone, building my confidence and extending my networks while having a lot of fun doing it.

“It’s like having a family and I feel close to everyone involved, they’ve been so kind to me.”

The show will have some COVID-19 restrictions in place, but audiences can rest assured

that it will be a great night.

“It’s great that Tasmania has done such a great job of managing the pandemic, and the theatre has put in strategies so we can all be safe and have some joy in our lives and continue with the arts, laughter and happiness,” Mr Inglis said.

For more information or to purchase tickets, visit http://oldnick.com. au or the Uni Revue Facebook page.

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Hobart Observer APRIL 2021 3

Community News

Working together for a safer community WORKING together with communities to find ways to keep Hobart’s neighbourhoods safe is the aim of community safety forums being run

by Labor Member for Clark Ella Haddad.

Ms Haddad held the second of the series of forums at the North Hobart Football Club rooms, following the first one being held late last year in Chigwell.

“Making sure we live in safe communities is a key priority for me,” Ms Haddad said.

“Talking directly with the community to work together to reduce crime is an important part of my work as a

local MP and Shadow Corrections Minister.

“I have previously held a forum in Chigwell and will be holding more throughout this year, it is so important for dialogue to occur between MPs, residents and organisations.

“Residents have raised a number of important concerns at the forums so far, including vandalism and house break ins, feeling safe in shopping districts at night, and anti-social behaviour.”

Ms Haddad invited David Daniels from Crime Stoppers Tasmania and Peter Edwards from

Neighbourhood Watch as guest speakers to the Hobart forum.

Mr Daniels said the goal of Crime Stoppers Tasmania was to create a safer state for everyone.

“Crime Stoppers’ overarching objective is to create a safer Tasmania – for our children, for our families and for each other,” he said.

“Creating community conversations is an important part of achieving this.”

For more information on when the next forum will be, keep an eye on the letterbox or visit Ella Haddad MP’s Facebook page.

From left, David Daniels from Crime Stoppers Tasmania and Labor Member for Clark Ella Haddad.

Spirit taxes need an overhaul THE state’s spirit distillers are calling on the Federal Government to provide critical tax relief that will allow the industry to employ more people and grow for the benefit of the state.

Tasmanian Whisky and Spirits Association vice-president Kristy Booth-Lark, owner of the Killara Distillery, said the tax was “really crippling”.

“We are paying per bottle of spirits anywhere up to $40 just in tax,” she said.

“It puts Tasmanian spirits at the higher end of the market.

“If we can get the tax to be a little more equal with some of the imports coming in, it really pushes our products and allows locals to support us more as well.

“Tax reform for most distilleries would mean more local employment opportunities.”

Association president Cam Brett, of Spring Bay Distillery, said the industry was asking for an increase to the excise refund from $100,000 to $350,000 which was in line with the wine industry.

“The $100,000 refund allows Spring Bay Distillery to employ two extra employees,” he said.

“The increase to $350,000 will allow us to employ five people that will drive production.

“Increasing our production will eventually reduce the

price to consumer.

“This will allow us to grow our businesses and rival the wine industry in Tasmania and become a major exporter for Tasmania.

“Excise limit changes, in particular, will help the sector realise its potential as a half-billion dollar industry in the next five years.”

Independent Federal member for Clark Andrew Wilkie has taken the issue directly to the Federal Treasurer, Josh Frydenberg.

“Australian, and especially Tasmanian, craft distillers are taking the world by storm,” Mr Wilkie said.

“But their growth is being hampered by Australian’s illogical jumble of alcohol taxes and this needs to be fixed. A good start would be to bring the rebate for small distillers into line with that offered to small winemakers.”

Mr Wilkie said Mr Frydenberg had instructed his staff to look into the matter.

“Easing the tax burden for distillers will free up funds to employ more staff, invest in better infrastructure and expand markets,” he said.

“Tasmania’s boutique distillers desperately need this reform, and some may sink without it.”

The Tasmanian Whisky and Spirits Association has 52 members that represent about 96 per cent of production in the state.

Independent Federal MP for Clark Andrew Wilkie with Tasmanian Whisky and Spirit Association president Cam Brett (Spring Bay Distillery), left, and vice-president Kristy Booth-Lark (Killara Distillery), right, at the Gin Bar by Forty Spotted in Hobart.

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4 Hobart Observer APRIL 2021

Community News

IT’S TIME TO GET WALKING

From left, Sara, Shruti, Labor Member for Clark Ella Haddad and Prabash.

ON Friday 14 May, children across Hobart will put their feet first, and journey towards a healthier future by participating in the 22nd anniversary of National Walk Safely to School Day. The annual event raises awareness of the health, road safety, transport and environmental benefits that regular walking (especially to and from school) can provide for the long term well-being of our children.

Apart from the physical benefits, regular walking also has a favourable impact on their cognitive and academic performance.

The day also encourages primary school aged children to build walking into their daily routine, by walking to and from school, not just on Friday 14 May, but every day.

Pedestrian Council of Australia chairman and chief executive officer Harold Scruby said

physical inactivity was a major risk factor for so many chronic diseases that could affect children at different stages of their life, including mental illness, heart disease, diabetes and cancer.

“Primary school aged children across Australia – it’s time to get walking,” he said.

“One in four children in Australia is overweight or obese, and it is expected that numbers will reach one in three by next year.

“We really need teachers, parents, carers and the community at large to get behind this event and its objectives, the best exercise for all of us is regular walking.

“Children require at least 60 minutes huff and puff physical activity every day.

“We should encourage them to include walking at the beginning, during and end of each day – if you can’t walk all the way, use public transport and get off the bus, train, tram or ferry a few stops

WELCOMING HOBART’S NEWEST CITIZENS WorkSafe Tasmania RESIDENTS from 14 different countries have officially become Australian citizens after a citizenship ceremony was held in Hobart in early March.

Applying for citizenship is a long road, with people making the leap after years of being part of their local communities and making the initial move from overseas.

Labor Member for Clark Ella Haddad attended the ceremony at the Hobart Town Hall Ballroom and said it was fantastic to see

a new group of people becoming Australian citizens.

“I’d like to congratulate all of the people who have officially become Australian citizens,” she said.

“This is a massive step in their lives and one that takes a lot of courage and ceremony days are always such a special celebration.”

Ms Haddad made mention of one family who are already having an impact on Tasmania.

“Prabash works in ICT, his wife Shruti is completing a PhD at

UTAS in architecture and energy efficient housing and their daughter Sara is a year 10 student in Hobart,” Ms Haddad said.

“This family has already made significant contributions to Tasmania and I congratulate them on their citizenship.

“Tasmania is one of the best examples of multiculturalism, embracing people from more than 170 different countries around the world and this melting pot of cultures is part of what makes this place so special.”

earlier and walk the rest of the way to school.”

National Walk Safely to School Day also encourages parents and carers to walk more, reducing dangerous traffic congestion around schools, better use of public transport with reduced car-dependency and the vitally important road safety message.

“Until they are 10, children must always hold the hand of an adult when crossing the road," Mr Scruby said.

To celebrate the 22nd anniversary, schools are encouraged to also host a free healthy breakfast on Friday 14 May in conjunction with their local supermarket or greengrocer.

For Rosemary Stanton’s guide to a healthy breakfast, visit http:// www.walk.com.au/ WSTSD/host-a-healthybreakfast.asp.

For more information or to get involved in National Walk Safely to School Day, visit www. walk.com.au.

Awards 2021 Celebrating excellence at work

ENTRIES NOW OPEN All Tasmanian organisations and individuals that have made a commitment to work health, safety, wellbeing and injury management are invited to enter the 2021 WorkSafe Tasmania Awards.

Whether you’ve developed a workplace health and wellbeing initiative, an injury management system or created an innovative work health and safety solution, the Awards are a great opportunity to gain recognition amongst your peers.

This year’s categories are: Category 1: Excellence in work health and safety systems Category 2: Excellence in implementing a work health and safety solution Category 3: Excellence in work health and safety culture Category 4: Excellence in contributions to work health and safety Category 5: Excellence achieved by a health and safety representative Category 6: Excellence in injury management Category 7: Excellence in an individual’s contribution to injury management

A local not-for-profit organisation celebrating 30 years of supporting Tasmanians.

Services provided include: • family dispute resolution/mediation* • counselling and psychological services • workplace assistance (i.e. EAP).

Category 8: Excellence in a workplace health and wellbeing initiative Category 9: Excellence in a workplace response to COVID-19 All category entries are eligible to be nominated for the Leadership Excellence Award by the judging panel.

To find out more and submit your entry visit worksafe.tas.gov.au/awards Entries close – 31 May 2021 The WorkSafe Tasmania Awards are an initiative funded by the WorkCover Tasmania Board.

*This activity received grant funding from the Australian Government.

Hobart Observer APRIL 2021 5

Community News

Special event to mark 200 years of Royal Hobart Show ONE of Australia’s oldest annual events, the Royal Hobart Show, will be marked by a special event on the lawns of Parliament House in mid-April.

It will be a case of back to where it all started as the very first Hobart Show was held on the same lawns in 1822.

With the permission of Parliament House, the day will feature a petting zoo, bullocks, a mini-carnival, vintage machinery and a historical display.

There will also be a release of homing pigeons.

The day will celebrate 200 years of agricultural showing in Hobart.

“It will be a great holiday experience for children,” Royal Agricultural Society of Tasmania head Scott Gadd said.

“On 14 April, we’ll acknowledge our debt to all those who maintained and built our society and the Show over the last 200 years.

“Most of them were volunteers, and that remains the case today – a striking example of the people of the bush and the townies

in Hobart who, for 200 years, thought it important enough to come together and organise a showcase of the best that Tasmania has to offer the world.”

In 1821, land and stockholders met at a Hobart hotel to form what was then called the Van Dieman’s Land Agricultural Society, now the Royal Agricultural Society of Tasmania.

When the first Show was held outside Parliament House in 1822, Tasmanian agriculture was acknowledged as the

great source of colonial prosperity.

“While the economic focus in modern times moves to high tech and service industries, the fact remains that a successful and vibrant agricultural sector, and the food it produces, remains the bedrock of everything else our community does,” Mr Gadd said.

The event will be held on Wednesday 14 April on Parliament House lawns between 10am and 3pm, and is a free community initiative.

Celebrating 200 years of the Royal Hobart Show.

Royal Hobart Show grounds.

Elwick Racecourse Show Grounds in 1875.

Grand Parade at the Royal Hobart Show.

6 Hobart Observer APRIL 2021

Community News

EMILY’S LIST SUPPORTING WOMEN IN POLITICS EMILY’S List Australia is an organisation dedicated to working with progressive women who wish to nominate for parliament.

Modelled on the United States organisation of the same name, EMILY’s List supports women by pairing them with mentors, helping with campaign skills, fundraising and general support.

The name stands for ‘Early Money Is Like Yeast’ – it makes the dough rise – and it assists women candidates to build their campaign foundations.

Their slogan is “When women support women, women win”.

Labor Member for Clark Ella Haddad held

a small gathering in Hobart in late February with members of the organisation from Tasmania and Victoria, giving attendees the chance to meet up, tell their story and listen to others.

“It was great to be able to have engaging conversations with men and women about EMILY’s List and progressive women in politics,” Ms Haddad said.

“As we have seen in the mainstream media throughout the past few months, women still face significant conscious and unconscious bias as well as direct discrimination in many workplaces.

“Organisations such as EMILY’s List help to break down stereotypes

Ella Haddad and Member for Franklin Julie Collins with EMILY’s List members at an event in Hobart.

and make structural change.

“Entering politics can seem like a very

unattractive career for women, but without women in politics, things won’t change.

“It’s really important that parliament reflects our community and while Tasmania’s

parliament is now over 50 per cent women, there is still work to be done by EMILY’s

list here and elsewhere to continue to change culture and encourage women.”

Acknowledging our female convict past

Minister for Arts and Heritage Elise Archer with the unveiled From the Shadows statue.

Minister for Arts and Heritage Elise Archer speaking at the unveiling of the From the Shadows statue located at the World Heritage Cascades Female Factory, South Hobart.

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A NEW project is set to connect the arts, tourism and heritage sectors in acknowledging our female convict past at a number of location across Hobart.

‘From the Shadows’ is an entirely voluntary, not-for-profit organisation which was established for the sole purpose of raising funds for the creation, installation and maintenance of high quality bronze statues at the World Heritage Cascades Female Factory historic site in South Hobart and the state heritage listed Orphan School site at New Town.

The initiative will continue the story that started with the successful ‘Footsteps toward Freedom’ statues at Hobart’s historic waterfront outside Mac 01 Hotel, which were also created by internationally renowned Irish sculptor Rowan Gillespie, and unveiled by the Irish President and the Governor of Tasmania in 2017.

The first of the From the Shadows statues was recently unveiled and was modelled on Brydie – a descendant of Martha Gregory who was transported to Tasmania from England for seven years for stealing.

It was designed to represent the struggles of the convict women, particularly mothers.

“For many years, history about women and children has not been recognised to the extent it should,” From the Shadows secretary Dr Dianne Snowden AM said.

“From the Shadows seeks to redress this imbalance, illuminating the stories of convict women and their children, bringing their lives and stories out of the shadows and weaving them into Hobart’s historic landscape, as important community as well as heritage tourism assets.”

Minister for Arts and

Heritage Elise Archer said the project had many benefits for Hobart and Tasmania “I was pleased to speak at the unveling of the first of four statues recognising the some 15,000 convict women and free children who arrived in Tasmania, then known as Van Diemen’s Land, from 1803 to 1853,” she said.

“As an arts project, From the Shadows promotes reflection and connection to the historic landscape for locals and visitors alike.

“The statues will contribute to Hobart’s existing international artistic reputation and represent a significant investment in heritage tourism.”

From the Shadows received a grant of $10,000 from the Premier’s Discretionary Fund last year, following the Hobart waterfront statues receiving a grant from the Government’s Community Infrastructure Fund.

“I believe it is important to acknowledge the contribution of the women who arrived in Tasmania under challenging circumstances before being sent to the Cascades Female Factory in Hobart or another convict institution,” Ms Archer said.

“The From the Shadows statues create a significant cultural heritage tourism route linking sites integral to the female convict story – the Hobart waterfront where the female convicts disembarked, the World Heritage Cascades Female Factory in South Hobart where they were largely taken, and the state heritage listed Orphan School buildings at New Town where many of the children were sent.

“They will be a tourism and educational drawcard for all Tasmanians and will contribute to Hobart’s existing international reputation.”

Hobart Observer APRIL 2021 7

Community News

VOLUNTEER LANGUAGE TUTORS NEEDED AT TASTAFE

TasTAFE English Language Services teacher Ian Hewitt, left, and volunteer tutor scheme administrator Hiroko Kunimoto.

at home,” he said.

“A lot of people can’t come because they’re looking after elderly parents.

“What’s really good about this program is that it provides language training, along with settlement information, but it also provides connection to the community.

“A lot of people on the home tutor program are actually stuck at home so it’s the connection that is really good as well.”

Volunteer tutor scheme administrator Hiroko Kunimoto said volunteer tutors could also play an important part in helping migrants settle into life in a new country.

“This program is perhaps not only about improving language skills,” she said.

“The tutor may also be able to assist in helping them understand cultural differences, some Australian customs and way of living.

“They become an important connection point to the society the migrants are trying to adjust to and embrace.”

Ms Kunimoto said volunteer tutors didn’t need to have any prior teaching experience as all training was provided through a free six-week

training course delivered online (10 hours), as well as at three two-hour face-to-face sessions at TasTAFE’s Campbell St Campus, Hobart.

“We want people from diverse backgrounds with a genuine interest in this sort of activity,” she said.

“As a volunteer tutor you’ll meet new migrants who come from a completely different language and cultural experience.

“It varies, but tutors need to be available for around an hour a week and be happy to visit the student, usually in their home.”

Ms Kunimoto said many tutors found the experience extremely rewarding.

“I’ve heard lots of stories about friendships newly formed and tutors really embracing different cultures and experiences,” she said.

“This is a very handson experience – going to someone’s home really gives you the first-hand experience of a different culture.”

The next Volunteer Home Tutor training course begins on 26 April 2021.

Anyone interested in the training or for more information, contact TasTAFE.Home.Tutor.

ELS@tastafe.tas.edu.au.

2050 Vision for Greater Hobart - Have your say We will live in the world’s best small capital city, a city built for people that is connected, friendly and safe.

The Clarence, Glenorchy, Hobart and Kingborough councils and the Tasmanian Government have been working together as part of the Greater Hobart Committee to develop a shared Vision for Greater Hobart to 2050.

The draft Vision aims to reflect not only the varied and individual nature of the four cities that make up Greater Hobart, but also to celebrate what brings our communities together.

To help Greater Hobart continue to be a thriving and inspiring place to live, we want your feedback.

You can view the draft 2050 Vision for Greater Hobart at www.greaterhobart.tas.gov.au/vision.

Consultation will run until Monday, 26 April 2021.

To have your say, you can complete the online survey at yoursay.hobartcity.com.au/greater-hobart-vision or email your written submission to contact@greaterhobart.tas.gov.au

Someone to Listen - Caring Support - Information - Practical Help A free, confidential service for women, men and families experiencing distress or difficulties as a result of pregnancy or pregnancy loss.

Pregnancy Counselling & Support (Tas) Inc. gratefully acknowledges the financial assistance of the Department of Health & Hum an Services

60mm

TASTAFE is seeking people with an interest in helping others to become volunteer language tutors for migrants.

TasTAFE trains volunteer home tutors under the Adult Migrant English Program (AMEP), which is funded by the Australian Federal Government’s Department of Home Affairs.

A new training program for would-be tutors begins on 26 April.

Under the program, the volunteer tutors visit migrant students in their own homes, or in public locations such as libraries or community halls, assisting them to learn English, and establishing important connections.

Many of the migrant students live in the Hobart area, but also in other locations around Hobart.

TasTAFE English Language Services teacher Ian Hewitt said while TasTAFE provided on-campus training through AMEP for migrants to learn English, there were many who were unable to attend classes.

“We’ve had lots of students that can’t come to class because they might have health issues, mobility issues or they might have small children

8 Hobart Observer APRIL 2021

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AUTUMN EDITION

Maritime Museum receives much-needed boost THE Maritime Museum has acquired a much-needed defibrillator thanks to a grant from the Premier’s Discretionary Fund.

Independent Member for Clark Sue Hickey assisted the museum in receiving $2,500 to purchase the defibrillator.

Maritime Museum assistant curator Dr Annalise Rees said the defibrillator would provide significant benefits.

“There wasn’t one publicly available in our block in the CBD, and because we have both elderly volunteers, as well as a whole lot of the public coming in, it seemed like it would be a great idea to have one on site that we could make available for public use if required,” she said.

The Maritime Museum recently reopened in early February following an extended closure because of COVID.

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SENATOR

WENDY ASKEW LIBERAL SENATOR FOR TASMANIA 46 Cameron Street (PO Box 97) Launceston TAS 7250 03 6331 8501 Senator.Askew@aph.gov.au SenatorAskew

Authorised by W. Askew, Liberal Party of Australia, 46 Cameron St, Launceston TAS 7250.

“We’ve reopened with two new temporary exhibitions on the ground floor,” Dr Rees said.

“One of them is titled ‘Writing and the Sea’, looking at items from the collections and their links to writing and all its forms.

“The second exhibition is ‘Bill Mearns: under the Spell of the Sea’ and that features works from highly esteemed marine artist Bill Mearns who used to live in Hobart.”

The museum is also showcasing Tasmanian writers through ‘LUME Writing from the collection’, where writers in residence will have the chance to research a project and then present public outcomes from August through to December.

“We’re currently finishing off a huge redevelopment of the permanent display upstairs and that’s expected to open later in the year,” Dr Rees said.

“We want the public to come in and get an understanding of what Tasmania’s maritime history and heritage is, and

how that relates to more broader ideas and the social and cultural context of Tasmania.”

The Maritime Museum was established by a group of maritime enthusiasts in 1972 and moved to the Carnegie Building on Argyle Street in 2000.

“We’re responsible for looking after a significant maritime collection and that collection has largely been built by the community, so it’s a really important legacy that we’re looking after for all Tasmanians,” Dr Rees said.

“We rely on about 100 active volunteers that assist with the operation of the museum’s day to day business such as at the front desk, greeting visitors as they come in and helping me out with collection management and research.

“Being a volunteer gives people fantastic social interaction and many of them like sharing their stories with the public and working in a place that has an incredible collection of artefacts that they get to interact with.”

From left, Kim Newstead, Independent Member for Clark Sue Hickey and assistant curator Dr Annalise Rees and Maritime Museum.

From left, Kim Newstead and Independent Member for Clark Sue Hickey at the Maritime Museum.

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To live more and pay less pick up your free copy of the Directory at Service Tasmania, Libraries Tasmania or Visitor Information Centres. You can also access a copy online at seniors.tas.gov.au or by calling 1300 13 55 13.

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Hobart Observer APRIL 2021 9

AUTUMN EDITION

Rivals and partners battle it out for petanque glory TWO sportsmen have spent five months vying for poll position in the first ever Tasmanian Petanque Pennant Competition.

Eric Hartill and David Collins both developed an unassailable lead over the other players heading into the final weekend of competition.

At the start of the day’s play, Mr Hartill was on 84 points and Mr Collins was on 80 points.

Mr Hartill managed to lift his score by five points in the final round, while Mr Collins’ score remained unchanged, with Mr Hartill finishing first.

Mr Collins finished second, while Kevin Warn finished third with 65 points and Annette Horsler finished fourth with 62 points.

Mr Hartill and Mr Collins put their rivalry aside to form the winning pair in men’s doubles for the Hobart Petanque Club’s invitational tournament.

“Both Eric and David have played lots of sport

in their lives and have the will to win that makes them mentally strong,” event organiser for the pennant competition Annette Horsler said.

“They have both accumulated injuries and ailments from their previous sports and now they find that petanque is the perfect sport to channel their competitive instincts.”

Petanque is a variant of lawn bowls that is played on gravel instead of grass.

The ball is thrown and not bowled.

“Most people involved in petanque are social players,” Ms Horsler said.

“We are involved in creating opportunities for people to play competitively across clubs.

“That is why we developed the pennant competition and with the assistance of the Hobart Petanque Club and the Kingborough Bowls Club it has been a great success.”

The winter pennant competition will commence in May.

From left, petanque partners and rivals David Collins and Eric Hartill.

GRANTS FOR EX-SERVICE ORGANISATIONS EX-SERVICE organisations that help veterans and their families can now apply for the 2021 Building Excellence in Support and Training (BEST) grants program.

Ex-service organisations across the country deliver extensive services to veterans and their families, including leisure activities, transition support, assisting with claims, rehabilitation and wellbeing programs, and hosting many commemorative events and activities.

BEST grants help ex-service organisations provide vital advocacy services for current and former serving men and women, helping with their compensation claims and ensuring they get access to their entitlements and services.

“The services exservice organisations provide can help veterans and their families access local support and resources, empowering them to improve their health and wellbeing, stay well, age

well and engage in a full life,” Tasmanian Senator Eric Abetz said.

Applications for the grants are open online, with advocacy service providers encouraged to submit their application before the closing date of 14 April 2021.

“A BEST grant can help contribute towards paying the salary costs of administrative assistants and advocates, and any equipment they might need to deliver their services,” Senator Abetz said.

“Local communities know best what will

benefit veterans and their families, and these grants will provide opportunities to community organisations to extend the important support they provide to veterans and their families.”

The Department of Veterans’ Affairs offers a range of grant programs to assist with providing support to veterans and their families.

To apply for a grant or for more information on BEST grants, visit https://www. communitygrants.gov.au.

Do you live with two or more chronic conditions or care for someone who lives with two or more chronic conditions?

The Menzies Institute for Medical Research would like to speak with you. If you are also • • • • •

Aged over 18 Live in the community Visit a doctor 5 or more times each year Are interested in talking about your experience of living with or caring for someone living with two or more chronic conditions Are interested in sharing ideas for what research might help improve your health

Please Contact: Study Coordinator, Monica, Menzies Institute for Medical Research Ph: 6226 1727 or email cc.study@utas.edu.au Conditions could include: Heart disease, Respiratory conditions, Musculoskeletal conditions, Immune conditions, Kidney disease, Neurological conditions, Mental health conditions, Diabetes, Chronic lymphocytic leukemia or Chronic myeloid leukaemia This study is funded by the Menzies Institute for Medical Research and has been approved by the Human Research Ethics Committee (Tasmania) Network (23947)

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10 Hobart Observer APRIL 2021

Community News

Helping to tell your story THE Royal Commission into Violence, Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation of People with Disability was established in response to wide spread reports of people with disability being hurt, treated badly, taken advantage of, discriminated against and neglected.

The Royal Commission represents a real opportunity to improve the lives of people living with disability in Australia.

“About one in five Australians experience disability – in Tasmania that number is closer to one in four,” Labor Member for Elwick Josh Willie said.

“The potential influence of the Royal Commission’s eventual findings is therefore particularly significant for the future of our state and vulnerable members of our community.”

Everyone’s story and experiences are different

and to create change, everyone’s story should be heard.

The Your Story Disability Legal Support Service is helping Tasmanians to do just that by providing advice to people about how they can best engage with the Royal Commission.

Your Story is a free service for people with disability, their families, carers, supporters and advocates.

It is operated in Tasmania by Tasmania Legal Aid and the Tasmanian Aboriginal Legal Service.

Mr Willie recently hosted a morning tea, with Tasmania Legal Aid’s Your Story lawyer David Cocker on hand to talk more about the service.

“The aim of Your Story is to support people to feel informed and empowered to engage safely with the process of the Royal Commission,” Mr Cocker said.

Mr Cocker said that

some people may have concerns about sharing their story.

“We understand that and are always sensitive to what suits people we work with,” he said.

“Through our advice and understanding, we can support people to find the best way for them to tell their story.

Sharing a story with the Disability Royal Commission can assist people to feel heard, help begin healing from past trauma and guide positive change for the future.

The Royal Commission will look at how to create a more inclusive society, with the first step being to empower people with disability to lead those changes.

For more information, contact the office of Josh Willie or email Mr Cocker at YourStory@ legalaid.tas.gov.au.

Your Story can be contacted on 1800 77 1800 from Monday to Friday.

She’ll be right.

Member for Elwick Josh Willie, left, and Your Story Disability Legal Support and Tasmanian Legal Aid jurisdiction lawyer David Cocker.

Until it isn’t.

It’s good to be carefree – but not so carefree that you’d risk being underinsured for natural disasters like bushfire and flood. For how to best cover your property, check out InsuranceCheckup.tas.gov.au or visit your local Service Tasmania to pick up an insurance info pack.

This project has been jointly funded by the Commonwealth and Tasmanian Governments under the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements.

Authorised by the Tasmanian Government, Hobart.

Hobart Observer APRIL 2021 11

Community News

Growing at the Taroona Neighbourhood Garden THE Taroona Neighbourhood Garden is a voluntary organisation which aims to provide a sunny, open space for local residents and students to learn organic gardening skills, grow nutritious food and engage in healthy outdoor exercise.

With approximately 50 members, the organisation provides garden plots for families and individuals to grow vegetables for their own households and collaborate to cultivate the perimeter areas, where they share the produce.

The Taroona Neighbourhood Garden has installed a worm farm which was specifically manufactured for its needs.

Locals are invited to dispose of their kitchen waste in the new worm

farm, which will house up to 40,000 earthworms.

“The worms will recycle up to 20 litres of waste per day, providing a rich organic fertiliser of ‘worm wee’ and worm castings to feed the garden,” garden secretary Deirdre Brown said.

“A community worm farm is a great way to bring people together as well as achieve environmental and community benefits.

“Members of the garden will contribute to full ongoing management of the facility and undertake community education to increase use of the worm farm and thereby reduce food waste in the roadside collection.

Local Liberal Member for Clark Elise Archer has provided support and donations towards the

garden and its projects.

“I was so pleased to be able to support the Taroona Neighbourhood Garden with a donation of a voucher to purchase a much wanted pomegranate tree to add to the group’s fruit tree collection as the community service they provide is outstanding,” Ms Archer said.

“With fruit trees and vegetable plots, this is a thriving community garden environment and I know the Neighbourhood Garden holds regular working bees and a traditional afternoon tea is shared along with great friendship.”

The Taroona Neighbourhood Garden is also a member of Garden Clubs Australia.

For membership or more information, contact tng@taroona.tas.au.

From left, Taroona Neighbourhood Garden president Margaret James, local Liberal Member for Clark Elise Archer and Taroona Neighbourhood Garden secretary Deirdre Brown.

Honour Roll celebrates women of Tasmania EIGHTEEN women and three women’s organisations were inducted into the Tasmanian Honour Roll of Women for 2021, including two well-known Tasmanian women.

Among the inductees were the late Dr Vanessa Goodwin and the late Lorna Doone Kennedy AO. Dr Goodwin devoted her working life to the service of the Tasmanian community in a number of roles, including as a lawyer, criminologist, Associate to the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Tasmania, Member for Pembroke, Attorney-General, Minister for Justice, Corrections and the Arts, and as Leader of the Government in the Legislative Council.

She was passionate about her local community, the law, social justice and disadvantaged Tasmanians, and was influential in putting in a number of key reforms.

This included reforms relating to bullying, the corrections system, reducing recidivism, and the ‘Neighbourhood Disputes about Plants Act 2017’.

Dr Goodwin was recognised with the establishment of the Dr Vanessa Goodwin Law Reform Scholarship in 2019, supported by the Tasmanian Government, Dr Goodwin’s Estate, University of Tasmania, the Tasmanian Law Reform Institute, and many private donors.

The scholarship is a tribute to Dr Goodwin’s legacy, fostering and supporting the next gen-

Dr Vanessa Goodwin.

eration of legal minds in Tasmania.

Doone Kennedy was Hobart’s first woman Lord Mayor.

She was elected an Alderman when Hobart City Council was traditionally male dominated in 1982, and elected Lord Mayor in 1986.

During her time in these positions, she worked collaboratively while still standing up for those issues she strongly believed in.

Ms Kennedy’s mayoral campaigns focused on trees-planting programs, supporting local business, the beautification of the

city, and recognising Hobart’s tourism potential and commercial centre.

She devoted herself to many charities, including the Mary Ogilvy Home, Narryna House, Queen Alexandra Hospital Board, Hobart District Nursing, Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery, Sudden Infant Death Society, and the Southern Regional Ambulance Service Advisory Council.

The Tasmanian Honour Roll of Women is a significant recognition of the dedication, commitment and hard work of many Tasmanian women.

For more information

about the Honour Roll, visit https://www.women. tas.gov.au/tasmanian_honour_roll_of_women.

Lorna Doone Kennedy AO.

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12 Hobart Observer APRIL 2021

Community News

Cardihab partners with health organisations AUSTRALIAN digital health platform Cardihab has entered an agreement with the Tasmanian Department of Health and the Royal Flying Doctor Service Tasmania to provide digital cardiac rehabilitation services in public hospitals across the state.

Cardihab facilitates the virtual delivery of cardiac rehabilitation services for patients recovering from cardiac events and living with heart disease.

Cardihab chief execu-

tive officer Helen Souris said it presented a solution that could improve access to critical cardiac rehabilitation programs for patients recovering from cardiac events and living with heart disease in Tasmania, particularly those in regional and remote areas.

Patients complete the virtual program using the Cardihab app remotely while under clinical supervision by qualified healthcare professionals.

Supported by weekly

phone or video consultations from their clinician, patients can benefit from the convenience of technology enabled care from their home.

“Using the Cardihab platform to manage their cardiovascular disease and complete their rehabilitation program, patients under the care of clinical staff can continue to receive high quality support virtually from the convenience of their home,” Ms Souris said.

“It is an ideal solution for people whose busy lives prohibit them from attending traditional face-to-face clinics, people living in remote areas, patients who are less mobile and throughout COVID-19.”

Ms Souris said Cardihab’s clinically validated platform provided an important solution to managing heart disease, the leading cause of death in Tasmania.

“Cardihab increases patient care delivery

options, enables clinical professionals to deliver service efficiently and supports both patients and clinicians growing demand for proven digital health programs that are personalised, convenient and flexible,” she said.

Royal Flying Doctor Service Tasmania chief executive officer John Kirwan said Cardihab would build on the success of its Prime Mover Phase III heart/lung rehabilitation service,

and reinforce its primary health care team’s focus on evidence based e-health.

“We measure success in many ways, such as reducing unplanned re-admissions to hospital, increased life expectancy for patients, reduced burden on paramedics and emergency departments, and enabling people to continue working and contributing economically to their family and society,” he said.

Find your neighbourhood hikes IN my attempts to improve my hiking fitness, I always look for neighbourhood green spaces.

This has become a bit of an obsession for me as it’s always enjoyable to walk somewhere new.

I’m looking for green belts with a hill and a view – the kind of space that feels miles away from city life, but is easy to find and close to home.

I often find that clients that are keenly interested in hiking adventures are often unaware of what is available on their doorstep.

The tracks are often tucked away at the end of cul-de-sacs or the starting point is between two houses so unless you know that, you would not know what walking paths are

hidden behind.

That’s where my experience comes in.

I’ve been offering Friday Night Hikes for 18 months now, and these walks are offered all year round from 5:15pm to 6:30 pm most Fridays.

They continue through Winter by torch light.

If you’d rather go on your own, here are my top eight neighbourhood green spaces.

Some of these areas are well marked, while others can be quite a labyrinth.

My clients often query how I know my way around them so intimately as one path often looks like another.

The answer is I’ve been bumbling around these green spaces for years – getting lost and found, taking notes,

and learning which are the best tracks for improving hiking fitness.

On the Eastern Shore, there are good walks to be had at: • Natone Hill (Lindisfarne/ Geilston Bay) • Waverly Flora Park (Rosny) • Gordons Hill (Rose Bay) • And Rosny Hill (Rosny / Montagu Bay) Lesser known green spaces are: • Pilchers Hill (Geilston Bay) • Meehan Range (Cambridge/ Mornington) • Glebe Hill Bush reserve (Glebe Hill) • Kuynah Bush Reserve (Howrah/ Rokeby) My advice to you is to wear sensible shoes (sandshoes or hiking shoes), take a backpack,

a drink and a few snacks, and bumble around.

Remember, if you can see the mountain or the river you are truly never lost.

There are also many GPS apps that have tracks and trails listed, so you can find your

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Enjoying a neighbourhood hike.

way out and back to your car.

If you’d prefer excellent company, I have space for a few more in my Friday Night Hikes.

Additionally, I am offering half day hikes around Pilchers Hill and Meehan Range so you

can find the highlights in these regions.

Make contact directly if you are interested in this.

Training for something longer and more adventurous?

I have free hiking fitness resources on the front page of my

“It’s mainly about an individual’s quality of life when they undertake successful rehabilitation – the reduction in stress and fear of triggering another life-threatening event and the positive path back to good health.

“Cardihab will allow our staff to assist our clients in the most remote and rural areas by creating increased access and options for those who would ignore rehab due to barriers of time, cost and distance.”

webpage at www.jocc. com.au/hiking.

*Jo Cordell-Cooper owns and operative local award winning business Jo CC Holistic PT. Make contact here at jo@jocc.com.au or 0409 862 206.

Hobart Observer APRIL 2021 13

Community News

Celebrating Hobart’s cultural diversity MUSICAL performers, good food and great weather led to a successful Multicultural Festival held in Hobart on 19 February.

The event was held at the Hobart Twilight Market and celebrated cultural diversity in Tasmania, with everyone that attended having a great night.

Senior vice president of the Multicultural Council of Tasmania Aimen Jafri said the festival personified how vibrant and diverse Tasmania’s multicultural communities were.

“The festival demonstrated the critical role that the migrants are playing and will continue to play in Tasmania’s economic future and wellbeing,” she said.

“It also exhibited how beautifully this land has absorbed the essence of these communities and has brought endless possibilities to Tasmania.”

Labor member for Clark Ella Haddad said the event was a fantastic

display of the many different cultures that make up the people of Tasmania in 2021.

“It was certainly a fun night at the Multicultural Council of Tasmania Festival,” she said.

“I enjoyed catching up with people from so many different backgrounds and cultures who make up our beautifully diverse multicultural city.

“The festival had so many different performers, musicians and dancers, showcasing amazing talent representing many cultures.

“We have a lot to be proud of in Tasmania, a community that embraces people from more than 170 different countries around the world – that’s what makes our place so special.

“It is fantastic to see the Multicultural Council of Tasmania continuing to do such great work to support and showcase this.”

From left, Junaid Syed, Rukshar Huseni, Labor Member for Clark Ella Haddad, Multicultural Council of Tasmania board member Joel Ortiz and former Multicultural Council of Tasmania chair Waqas Durrani.

14 Hobart Observer APRIL 2021

Community News

SCOUTS OUT AND ABOUT THE Mount Stuart Scout Group has been boosted by a grant from the Premier’s Discretionary Fund to purchase Personal Local Beacons (PLB) and gazebos.

“Our Scouts often undertake multi-day hikes in the Tasmanian bush where there is poor or no mobile reception,” Mount Stuart Scout Group leader Ed Benyon said.

“To date, the Mount Stuart Scout Group has relied upon borrowed PLB’s or gone without them.

“The two connectable

gazebos also purchased with the funding will enable the group to upgrade their well-used ones.

“The gazebos are utilised for many scouting activities including camps and district and branch events across the state and will be available for loan to other district groups.

“We are very grateful for this grant and look forward to utilising the equipment.”

The group was supported by AttorneyGeneral Elise Archer and

From left, local Liberal Member for Clark Elise Archer and Mount Stuart Scout Group leader Ed Benyon.

Premier Peter Gutwein who helped secure the funds.

“The safety of our scouting community is paramount so when I knew the Mount Stuart Scouting Group needed PLBs for hiking trips, I quickly responded with support,” Ms Archer said.

“I’m sure everyone involved with scouts was keen to get back out and appreciate our state’s wonderful outdoor environment, and enjoy scouting activities again.”

The Mount Stuart Scout Group always has a full calendar of events, with approximately 70 youth members aged between five to 18, including joey scouts, cub scouts, scouts and venturers.

There are also adult leaders, helpers and committee members, which equates to a lot of activity.

Mount Stuart Scout groups have weekly meetings and activities.

For more information, email contact@ mtstuartscouts.org.

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Hobart Observer APRIL 2021 15

Community News

Where good dogs come from The Dog Grumbler THE history of the dog, the story of its evolution, may never be understood completely.

I read recently that the first canids were small proto-foxes originating around Mexico about 40 million years ago.

It seems they spread around the globe and became, among other things, wolves.

By my reckoning some of those wolves responded to the human practice of cooking food and slowly became dogs.

All this occurred without humans noticing — because it took tens and probably hundreds of thousands of years.

Other animals have become domesticated — bred and trained by humans — but we started that long after nature finished work on the dog.

Nature made dogs and eventually we humans stepped in and steered breeding to suit our tastes.

In evolutionary terms this part happened yesterday.

There are now more than 400 recognised breeds of dog.

We have quickly modified them to specialize – to serve, protect and inform us.

It has been easy because as I like to point out, the dog is willing.

Our response to this willingness — after all the thousands of years nature took to create it, often dismays me.

We take companions and workmates and make them pets and chattels.

We adapt and adopt them to be weapons, toys, status symbols or fashion accessories.

We create dogs that can’t walk or breathe properly because we want them to look like little people or smallgoods or teddy bears.

I have a toy poodle.

Like many small breeds, she suffers from the conflict between design and materials that occurs when the original blueprint is scaled down, or up, or distorted.

She suffers from tracheal collapse and a luxating patella.

She makes choking noises, sometimes for minutes on end and occasionally she skips on a back leg.

If you have a small breed and notice these symptoms, I recommend glucosamine.

You can get it in pet shops and it works on my dog just as it does on my own wonky knee.

I adopted her when her owner, a friend, passed away.

She exhibits all the traits and talents of a standard poodle but takes up less space.

She is an indispensable part of our family, but I would be uncomfortable buying a new one, even knowing how to mitigate inherent problems.

It doesn’t seem right to encourage breeders to produce more when a life of discomfort awaits them.

Our culpability extends to functional breeds as well – people buy working dogs because they are “smart” and never allow them the sort of life they are designed for.

There is no excuse for this.

If you buy a Border Collie or Kelpie pup and leave it in your backyard and the dog exhibits vices, it’s your fault — you

cannot blame the dog.

If you didn’t know this would happen then you should never have gotten a dog – ignorance is no excuse.

As I mentioned last month, thousands of healthy dogs are put to death every week in Australia because nobody wants them anymore.

It’s not their fault.

It’s the fault of people who decide they want a particular kind of dog no matter what and plead ignorance when it doesn’t work out.

They wash their hands of responsibility for what they have done.

Do some research, read a book, know what to expect and be prepared and committed.

That’s where good dogs come from.

Adopt a rescue dog by all means, but prepare yourself with knowledge and make a commitment to keep it with all its quirks, whatever they may be.

This is too much to ask of many people and the creature who loves us the most and serves us the best continues to pay the ultimate price.

OBSERVER SPORT 16 Hobart Observer APRIL 2021

UNI BREAK 12 YEAR DROUGHT

The University Cricket Club First Grade team after winning the Cricket Tasmania Premier League final. Photo credit: Anthony Corke/Solstice Digital.

UNIVERSITY Cricket Club has emerged victorious in the Cricket Tasmania Premier League, following a convincing win over the North Hobart Cricket Club.

University lost the toss and were sent in to bat first, declaring for 473.

The team got off to a rocky start with opener Zac Phair only scoring

six runs and captain Jake Doran getting out for a first ball duck.

However, Timothy Ward showed his class and carried his bat the entire innings to score 181 runs off 395 balls.

Ward was supported

by Nuwan Kavinda who scored 63 runs and James Faulkner who scored 68 runs, but it

was Australian captain Tim Paine who formed a 194 run partnership with Ward to give University a convincing lead.

Paine finished not out on 113 runs, with his partnership with Ward being 13 runs short of the club record for the fifth wicket.

The total was the highest team score

posted in a first grade grand final.

“We put our heads down and looked to put a big total on the board,” Assistant coach James Craig said.

North Hobart won the minor premiership and only needed to bat out a draw for a win, with Jordan Silk (86 off 157 balls) and Caleb Jewell

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(46 off 120 balls) helping boost their total.

However, it was all University after that.

Ryan Lees got three wickets, Andrew Kealy got four and Victorian Sam Harbinson got three, bowling North Hobart out for 241.

Ward was awarded the Roger Wooley Medal for best on ground.

It was the first time University had won a First Grade premiership in 12 years.

“There was a super feeling around the club that night and many of the older players came back, including some of the players that were involved in the premiership 12 years ago – to be at the club and a

part of that was exciting,” Craig said.

“Our club has been building towards this.

“We want to develop the next lot of state players through our club and that’s why our program is set up the way it is – the youth that is coming through is looking good for Shield and one day cricket.”

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