Hobart Observer May 2023

Hobart gets AFL stadium

A STADIUM for Tasmania’s new AFL and AFLW teams will be the centrepiece of a redeveloped Macquarie Point precinct that also includes new transport connections, port upgrades and waterfront housing.

The Federal Government will invest $240 million under the 2023-24 Budget

to help fund the project in partnership with the Tasmanian Government, with tourism and hospitality groups welcoming the announcement.

“This exciting precinct plan will provide real affordable housing for Tasmanians, real jobs and new transport solutions,” Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said.

“This sets up Macquarie Point as the future jewel in the crown for Hobart.”

But not everyone is happy with the plan, with protesters disrupting the funding announcement and an online petition against the stadium already racking up more than 13,000 signatures.

Hobart Citizen of the Year Kelly Drummond Cawthon and Young Citizen of the Year Gavin Quek outside Hobart Town Hall

Anna Reynolds, City of Hobart Mayor HELLO everyone,

Footy fans are celebrating after the recent announcement that Tasmania will have a team in the AFL from 2027.

It’s fair to say that the deal to get the team has raised a significant amount of concern and controversy in Hobart. At my ten ‘Mayor in the Chair’ sessions around the city this week people expressed outrage and anger about the high cost that Tasmania has had to pay for an AFL licence.

No other city or state has been forced to build a new stadium in order to secure an AFL licence. The new stadium planned for Macquarie Point will duplicate a similar sized facility over the river in Bellerive and is estimated to cost at least a $1 billion by the time it’s completed.

The deal was boosted by an offer of funding from the Federal Government. But interestingly the word “stadium” wasn’t used at the Prime Minister’s media conference. He talked about funding a “precinct” and “urban renewal”.

I am pleased to see acknowledgment by the Federal Government that Council and the local community has to be involved in the planning process before any money is transferred to the project. The last few months of AFL-driven city planning cannot continue.

Personally, I don’t support another stadium being built at Macquarie Point. I’d prefer to see upgrades and renovations to Hobart’s existing stadium at Bellerive and a new ferry pier close by to provide public transport access.

I’m really concerned that the 23,000-seat facility is too large to sit well in the site. There is talk of it being a 12-storey high, 100m-wide concrete monolith that will loom large over the Cenotaph and Hobart’s waterfront heritage streetscapes.

I was pleased to hear that the Hobart Port upgrade will be delivered as part of this work. I have been pushing for this project of national significance to be delivered as soon as possible. Australia’s Antarctic Gateway port can’t continue to be constrained by concrete cancer and second-rate facilities.

I’ll continue to be an honest broker in this significant local debate and keeping a very watchful eye on this process and trying to get the best outcome for Hobart.

The state and federal governments need to listen to the Hobart community in order to get genuine and innovative development at Macquarie Point that the community can be proud of.

Cheers, Anna

News from the HCC Planning Committee meeting, 19 April

41 Newdegate Street, West Hobart

The HCC Planning Committee has approved an application for a change of use to visitor accommodation at 41 Newdegate Street, West Hobart.

17 Alexander Street, Sandy Bay

The HCC Planning Committee has approved demolition of 17 Alexander Street, Sandy Bay, to be replaced by two multiple dwellings, detached and of two storey height.

20 McVilly Drive, Hobart and Adjacent Road Reserve

Community steps up for the city

ONE hundred local community members with a wide range of skills and experiences have been selected to serve on the City of Hobart’s portfolio committees. The new committee members will join a range of experts in their fields to help inform the council’s 11 portfolios – City Economy, City Heritage, City Mobility, City Water, Climate Futures, Creative City, Future Hobart, Healthy Hobart, Housing and Homelessness, Sustainability in Infrastructure

and Welcoming and Inclusive City – until the end of the current council’s term.

“The City of Hobart’s portfolio committees will help shape policy in collaboration with the community,” Hobart Lord Mayor Anna Reynolds said.

“They will provide advice on the development of initiatives and strategies to make Hobart an even better place to live, work and play.”

Community member Laura Smith said she hoped being part

of the Future Hobart committee would be beneficial for both her and the city.

“I think it is so important to have a diverse range of voices talking about all kinds of issues in Hobart,” she said.

“The portfolio committee system is a different, non-traditional way to engage with the community.

“I feel excited by the opportunity to work with new people and be involved in a collaborative committee that discusses big ideas.”

Hobart gets AFL stadium

CONTINUED

Premier Jeremy Rockliff said the project would inspire economic activity and strengthen the state’s economy for decades to come.

Destination Southern Tasmania said the stadium “has the potential to create a tourism economic boom for the state”.

The HCC Planning Committee has approved a partial demolition and relocation of a shared path and associated works at 20 McVilly Drive, Hobart. The $250,000 project will deliver better accessibility for pedestrians and cyclists transiting across the Regatta Grounds.

Further information about the proposal can be found in the agenda for the Planning Committee meeting, via http://hobart. infocouncil.biz

“It will be a unique destination to attract visitors to our state, and will finally mean Tassie can host events that have previously bypassed the state,” he said.

“It creates certainty for investment and thousands of new jobs.”

The Tasmanian Hospitality Association hailed the announcement as “a historic moment for Tasmania”, saying “the injection it will provide into the hospitality industry will be arguably greater than we have ever seen”.

Tasmanian Labor has said it supports Tasmania having its own AFL team, but has questioned the need for a new stadium.

“A billion-dollar stadium is not a priority for Tasmania, and we should not have to build one to get our team,”

Tasmanian Labor leader Rebecca White said.

Crown land at Regatta Point will be developed into a mix of waterfront housing including affordable homes for critical health workers and veterans.

“After a decade of inaction at Macquarie

Point, this plan represents a huge opportunity for Tasmania and I’m particularly pleased that housing is a central part of the precinct plan,” Federal Housing and Homelessness Minister Julie Collins said.

But the Greens say the decision to help fund the stadium shows Federal Labor’s “warped priorities”.

“The Prime Minister drove past families sleeping in tents to give hundreds of millions of dollars for an unnecessary stadium,” Senator Nick McKim said.

“Apparently both Anthony Albanese and Jeremy Rockliff think it’s more important to put a roof over a billion-dollar

Future Hobart committee member Laura Smith (left) and City Economy committee member Casey Farrell (right) at Hobart Town Hall with Hobart Lord Mayor Anna Reynolds

Top citizens awarded, as new Aussies sworn in

Mackenzie Archer

A CHAMPION of inclusion and equity

health of disadvantaged named Hobart’s Citizen and Young Citizen of the

Kelly Drummond Cawthon and Gavin Quek were recognised at the Hobart Community Awards ceremony on 17 April - the first time the awards have been presented since being moved away from Australia Day. The awards followed a citizenship ceremony

in the Hobart Town Hall ballroom that saw 68 new Australians from 24 countries officially become Australian citizens.

Ms Drummond Cawthon is creative director of Second Echo Ensemble, which develops innovative programs and works that help remove barriers to participation

and employment in the performance sector, resulting in greater opportunities for people living with mental illness, disability, neurodiversity or experiencing disadvantage to tell their stories.

“Every story matters and the diversity of the stories I hear need to be

Yacht Rock Party!

heard,” she said.

“The artists I work with challenge and inspire me every day.

“I get out of bed in the morning to try and make impossible things happen and there is no better job in the world.”

Mr Quek has been named Hobart Young Citizen of the Year for his

dedication to improving the oral health of all Tasmanians.

On top of his full-time job as a dentist, Mr Quek dedicates many hours to sharing his skills and knowledge through his volunteer roles with the Red Cross Bicultural Health and Rebuilding Smiles programs.

“Dental decay is very much preventable but is the most prevalent noncommunicable diseases in the world,” he said. “I want to work to change this and give every Tasmanian the opportunity to access oral health services no matter their financial situation.”

Hosted by John X Amazing Luckyauctionfundraising door prizes Prizes for best dressed yacht rockers

Dr Zelinda Sherlock (left) and Mike Dutta (right) with new Australian citizens Pouneh, Dion and Shayan Shams

ACTIVE KIDS ARE HEALTHY

FRIDAY

Blueline’s big birthday

SOCIAL enterprise

Blueline Laundry last month celebrated its 130year history of supporting people of all abilities, backgrounds and cultures to find meaningful employment. Now with more than 240 staff across Tasmania, including 35 per cent working with a disability, Blueline Laundry has become an essential service for those struggling to enter the mainstream workforce.

Blueline Laundry officially turned 130 years old on 10 April, with past and present staff gathering to celebrate the milestone.

“I am particularly proud of Blueline’s ongoing support for neuro-divergent employees, our cultural diversity, multicultural workforce, and commitment to continue providing employment for generational Tasmanians, many of

whom are also equally marginalised,” Blueline CEO Mike Sylvester said.

Since its establishment, Blueline Laundry has been an integral support for employees who have fallen through the cracks of Tasmania’s social service system, by providing resources to address homelessness, food shortage and other wellbeing issues.

Blueline Laundry employee Ron DiFelice

helps look after 50 supported workers on-site.

“This job means everything to so many who work here,” he said.

“Blueline gives its employees social and financial security and helps to create a sense of belonging.

“I can’t speak for the previous 110 years, but I’ve been here nearly 20 myself and it’s a pretty rewarding place to be.”

News from HCC meeting, 24 April

Crowther Reinterpreted –Addendum to Franklin Square Conservation Management Plan:

The Council has taken the next step in the removal of the William Crowther statue from Franklin Square. Council approved the addendum to the Franklin Square Conservation Master Plan which will be used in assessing the significance of the statue as part of the Development Application process. A Development Application will be lodged in the coming weeks.

An Indigenous Voice to Parliament motion:

The Hobart City Council has endorsed the ‘yes’ campaign for the Constitutional Recognition of an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice to Parliament.

The successful motion, brought by Lord Mayor Reynolds, also reaffirmed the City of Hobart’s commitment to truth-telling and reconciliation, recognised that Australia has endorsed the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, and supports the 2017 Uluru Statement from the Heart.

Draft Waterworks Reserve Master Plan:

The Council has approved a Draft Waterworks Reserve Master Plan. The master plan will aim to replace or upgrade deteriorating

toilets, playground, landscaping and the internal road network at the Waterworks Reserve. Preliminary costings have been estimated at $10.5 million.

The draft master plan will now be released for four weeks public exhibition and the council has also approved a coordinated program of community engagement across community and key stakeholder groups.

City of Hobart Submissions:

The Council has endorsed two submissions including the City’s submission to Tasmania’s Draft Climate Action Plan 2023-25 Consultation, which emphasised the need to move decisively towards a zero emission and resilient Tasmania that leaves no one behind.

It also identified shared priority areas for the State and City of Hobart including public and active transport, zero emissions transport and reducing the volume of organic waste sent to landfill.

Council also endorsed a submission to the Select Committee on Australia’s Disaster Resilience which highlights the present and future challenges the city faces from more frequent extreme weather events caused by climate change.

Public Interest Register and Property Developer Contact Register Policies:

Two policies relating to elected member disclosure of interests were adopted by the Council.

The Public Interest Register will see elected members provide a statement of interests within 28 days of an election including shareholdings exceeding $10,000; Trusts; property (excluding their primary residence); registered directorships of companies; personal debt above $10,000 (excluding financial institutions); sponsored travel or hospitality over $300; and any election campaign donation.

The Property Developer Contract Register will see elected members report contact with property developers monthly. These registers will be published online and made accessible to the public upon request.

Parking meters in North Hobart motion:

A motion moved by Alderman Zucco and Councillor Kelly to remove eight parking meters in North Hobart was approved by council.

An amended motion which includes exploring using existing parking meter sites for a trial of two electric vehicle chargers on Elizabeth Street North Hobart, reviewing off-street parking times and installing digital parking signage was deferred to a future workshop and report to council.

they’re ten, children must always hold an adult’s hand when crossing the

Blueline Laundry staff celebrate the social enterprise’s 130th anniversary recently

New crossing for Princes Street Primary

A NEW permanent road crossing at Princes Street

Primary in Sandy Bay will make the trip to school safer for students who walk or ride to school.

A permanent crossing on Princes Street was officially opened last month after a 20-month trial of a temporary crossing, alleviating the growing concerns of school parents and staff.

Parent Julia Scott said

the new crossing would make her daily commute with her daughter Ada much safer.

“Ada uses a wheelchair and prior to the installation of the new crossing I would have to try to cross the busy and dangerous roundabout at the intersection of Proctors Road and Princes Street,” she said.

“I think that access, extensibility and inclusion should be

at the forefront for all public infrastructure and it is great to see the Tasmanian Government focusing on this through the Vulnerable Road User Program (VRUP).”

Hobart City Mobility Portfolio chair Ryan Posselt said the new crossing includes kerb ramps to help slow down passing traffic and make crossing Princes Street easier for parents with prams and people in

wheelchairs.

“Giving kids and their parents safer travelling routes to school helps reduce traffic congestion but more importantly results in immense physical, mental and social benefits for students, families and staff,” he said.

Infrastructure and Transport Minister Michael Ferguson said programs like the VRUP are vital to improving

road safety.

“In our urban areas, pedestrians and cyclists represent one in four serious casualties and are at high risk of serious injury or death, which is why this program is so important in delivering projects such as safe crossings, footpaths, shared paths and bike lanes to create a safer environment for our vulnerable road users,” he said.

Hobart City Mobility Portfolio chair Ryan Posselt and Transport Minister Michael Ferguson use the new crossing with Princes Street Primary students. Photo credit: Mackenzie Archer

Julia Scott with daughter and Princes Street Primary student Ada and School Crossing Patrol Officer Luke Pash

TasTAFE is seeking volunteer tutors to help migrant students in Hobart learn to speak, read and write English, and establish important connections with the local community.

TasTAFE provides oncampus English classes for migrants under the Adult Migrant English Program (AMEP). Many of the migrant students live in Hobart’s northern suburbs, but also in other locations around Hobart. Some students would like additional one-onone help, to focus on specific aspects such as writing or speaking.

There are also migrants who are unable to attend classes for various reasons. To fill that gap, TasTAFE offers a volunteer tutor training program as part of AMEP.

After completing 10 hours of online study and three face-toface training sessions, volunteer tutors assist migrant students for about an hour each week, usually at a community location like a library or in students’ homes.

There are currently about 50 local volunteer tutors, like Michelle. But

more are needed, with a new round of tutor training beginning on 15 May.

“Since I retired, I had some free time and wanted to do something that involved literacy,” Michelle said. “It’s very rewarding to help someone.”

Luu Dung migrated from Vietnam at the end of 2021. Although he knew how to read and write English, he wasn’t confident talking. His teacher suggested seeing a volunteer tutor once a week after the class.

“With Michelle, I practice talking about

lots of different topics,” he said.

“I want to talk with everyone around me and make new friends.”

Act now and Seize the Day Volunteer English teachers needed

Luu Dung’s teacher, Ian Hewitt, was pleasantly surprised by his significant improvements.

“Since he has been working with Michelle his confidence has grown immensely, and he is talking more and more each week,” he said.

“It’s great to see.”

If you’re interested in volunteering, email info@tastafe.tas.edu.au or phone 1300 655 307.

Paige cooks up new career

TASMANIAN Young Achiever award finalist Paige Salter has overcome housing instability, mental health challenges and past trauma to pursue her dream of becoming a chef.

Now living independently in Goodwood, 19-year-old Paige has been named a finalist for the Colony 47 Courage to Grow Award, which will be announced at the Tasmanian Young Achiever Awards gala dinner this month.

“I made the conscious decision to not give up on myself, despite all the hardships,” she said.

After finding herself homeless from ages 13 to 18 and dealing with the impacts of childhood trauma, Paige hit rock bottom in 2021.

“I felt like giving up, but I decided to complete a Certificate III in Tourism and Hospitality and undertook a work placement at Government House,” she said.

“I have always liked and enjoyed cooking and my work placement at Government House made me realise I was capable of achieving something.”

Paige is now completing her chef apprenticeship at BAKED

Gluten Free in Moonah and hopes her journey inspires other young people to never give up.

“It’s never too late to change your life and the direction you are heading in,” she said.

“I thought my life was over but with the support of a few people and a want to change my life I have really turned everything around.

“My journey is still a work in progress but I am in a much better

place than I was a year ago.”

The 2023 Tasmanian Young Achiever Awards will be held at Wrest Point on Friday 12 May. The awards began in 1989, designed to acknowledge, encourage and promote the positive achievements of young Tasmanians aged 30 and under. The awards celebrate their achievements across a diverse range of fields and encourage them to pursue their goals.

APPLICATIONS are now open for Cancer Council Tasmania’s annual Seize the Day Educational Scholarships, which provide vital educational support for young Tasmanians aged 16-25.

After dealing with the extraordinary challenges of caring for their parent during a cancer diagnosis and, in some cases, experiencing the loss of their parent, previous Seize the Day Scholarship recipients Jess Allen, Natalie Coady, Georgina Perri and Luke Muir are grateful for the support Cancer Council Tasmania were able to provide through these scholarships, which cover costs like course fees, textbooks, uniforms, equipment, training, travel and student accommodation.

Cancer Council Tasmania Acting

CEO Abby Smith said the Seize the Day Program not only provides practical financial assistance, but also gives young people emotional support during the challenges that cancer brings.

“This sponsorship has provided a lasting legacy for young Tasmanians, providing them with the opportunity to pursue their dreams and goals through what was a very difficult and challenging period,” she said.

Cancer Council Tasmania has offered Seize the Day scholarships to young Tasmanians since 2006.

“This year, we have made applications more accessible and streamlined by creating an online process, making it easier for young people to receive help during a challenging time,” Ms Smith said.

Independent Living

‘‘

are lovely. I like living here, and I can access all kinds of help if I need it.

English student Luu Dung and his tutor Michelle

Jess Allen, Natalie Coady, Supportive Care director Sarah De Jonge, Georgie Perri and Supportive Care team member Louise Goss

Paige Salter of Goodwood has been selected as a finalist in the Tasmanian Young Achiever Awards. Photo Credit: Mackenzie Archer

Hundreds set to Sleep Rough for HCM

MORE than 200 sleeping bags were rolled out at Princes Wharf No. 1 last month to represent the number of Tasmanians sleeping rough each night.

Hobart City Mission (HCM) used the striking visual representation to launch its annual

community sleepout event, ‘Sleep Rough...so others don’t have to’.

HCM is calling on the community to help end homelessness by joining the Sleep Rough event, which will take place on Friday 26 May. For one night only, participants

will sleep out at PW1 to show solidarity with the hundreds of Tasmanians who sleep rough or live in an improvised shelter every night.

More than 200 kindhearted people joined the inaugural Sleep Rough event last year, raising a

total of $140,000 to help fund HCM programs that support people facing immediate crisis and longer-term housing programs.

This year, Hobart City Mission is encouraging even more people to get involved and hopes to

get at least 300 people to join in.

“Many people ask us how they can help to tackle the growing issue of homelessness in our community,” Hobart City Mission CEO Harvey Lennon said.

“This is a great

opportunity to get involved and make a reallife difference.

“Not only do you get to experience what it might be like to sleep rough for a night, you’ll also learn about homelessness in your community and raise money to directly help

people who are sleeping rough long-term.”

Sleep Rough is open to people of all ages, including individuals, families, schools and community and corporate groups. Registrations are now open via www. sleeprough.com.au

Before and after a Formplex makeover

Not all projects are DIY

THERE is an everincreasing desire among modern homeowners for their house to have a weatherboard façade.

But the constant time and effort needed to maintain timber weatherboards doesn’t appeal to today’s homemakers, as they get caught up with daily time constraints and the desire to spend more time with

Modern times call for modern solutions, and Formplex’s range of uPVC weatherboards let homeowners keep the iconic look of traditional timber weatherboards without the ongoing maintenance costs.

They are also the easiest and most economical method to give your home a facelift, if you need to dress it up

Formplex Australianmade uPVC weatherboards are tested to withstand our weather conditions, are fire retardant and comply to Australian standards - we guarantee the boards for 50 years.

The boards come in interlocking panels which are installed directly over your existing façade, so there’s no need for intrusive demolition work. Better yet, the panels can be fitted horizontally or vertically, for a variation on the traditional design.

Your new façade will never need painting and won’t rot, dent, chip or peel.

Formplex weatherboards come in a wide range of colours, all of which maintain their UV stability throughout their life expectancy.

They will also help insulate your home, saving you money in energy costs over time by controlling the infiltration of weather elements and egress of water vapour.

uPVC is the perfect lightweight building material, making Formplex boards particularly appealing for upper storey extensions.

You can try DIY, but installing uPVC isn’t easy so you should consider using the experts for this one.

Cutting uPVC requires specific tools, and it behaves differently than timber. Installation needs to be precise, with allowances made for expansion and contraction with the weather.

Use a reputable company like Formplex Weatherboards with a long history in the field.

Hobart City Mission fundraising and events officer Em Marriott, front, with Hobart City Mission and Clennetts Mitre 10 staff outside PW1

Tassie Mums’ bundles of joy

LOCAL charity Tassie

Mums is providing an essential service to Tasmanian families in need.

Working in partnership with more than 70 social service organisations, Tassie Mums collects donations of new and pre-loved baby and children’s clothing and items, which are then rehomed by social service organisations to families across the state.

Liberal MP Elise Archer recently visited the Tassie Mum’s operational facilities in Sandy Bay, meeting with Tassie Mums founder and CEO Clair Harris and operations manager Madeleine Glover.

“The volume of donations that pass through this organisation and the number of Tasmanians who benefit is enormous,” Ms Archer said.

Clothing bundles are made up for girls and boys from premature birth up to 12 years of age.

A newborn bundle can contain more than 70 items of clothing and at least two books and two toys, donations permitting. Other items that are also rehomed include nappies, playmats, bassinets, cot linen and toiletry packs for new mothers.

“I urge anyone who can to support this

TSO turns 75

THE Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra has been inspiring, performing and entertaining audiences since 1948, and recently celebrated its diamond jubilee anniversary with a gala concert at Hobart’s Federation Concert Hall.

‘Symphonic Dances’ - rarely heard in Tasmania because of the number of musicians required – featuring musicians from the Australian National Academy of Music.

Early Learning Centre

wonderful organisation with clothing donations or a cash donation to consider donating,” Ms Archer said.

“Cash donations can be utilised by some very savvy volunteers to purchase items that provide Tasmanian babies and children in need with everyday essentials.”

To make a donation email donate@ tassiemums.org or go online to tassiemums.org

The event featured the Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra and Australian National Academy of Music musicians, led by Chief Conductor Eivind Aadland. Shostakovich’s ‘Festive Overture’ was followed by Czech pianist Lukáš Vondráček performing Tchaikovsky’s enthralling ‘First Piano Concerto’.

A special highlight for the audience was a performance of Rachmaninov’s

Opening Term 3, 2023

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Our Early Learning program will run 5 days a week commencing in Term 3. Our tailored program is designed for children and their individual interests, needs and abilities. Our rich and meaningful learning experiences promote exploration, creativity and curiosity among all children. The fun, supportive and stimulating program ensures every child is celebrated at their own stage of development.

From the moment your child joins the Mount Carmel community, they are supported, challenged and inspired. Our Early Learning educators and Kinder teachers will collaborate to support the transition to school.

Contact our Enrolments Officer to discuss enrolments into our new Early Learning Centre.

Authorised

Attorney-General and Arts Minister Elise Archer was among those in attendance at the concert.

“This is a significant celebration for the TSO and all that has been achieved in its 75 years,” she said.

“This was a truly Tasmanian cultural legacy event and one which I was thrilled to attend as Minister for the Arts.”

For details of upcoming TSO concerts go to www.tso.com.au or email boxoffice@tso.com.au

Elise Archer MP, centre, with Tassie Mums operations manager Madeleine Glover and founder/CEO Clair Harris at the Tassie Mums warehouse

TSO chair Don Challen AM, Arts Minister Elise Archer and TSO CEO Caroline Sharpen at the TSO 75th Anniversary Concert

Whisky business for local makers at big convention

THE Institute of Brewing and Distilling (IBD) Asia Pacific is bringing its 2025 AsiaPacific Convention to Tasmania – international recognition of the work the local industry has done over the past 30 years to make Tasmania one of the key whiskyproducing regions in the world.

Tasmanian Whisky and Spirits Association president Cam Brett said Tasmania would not have been considered to host the convention if the state was not known for the quality of its whisky and whiskymakers.

“It is a real tick of approval in our state’s industry from the Institute,” he said.

“Tasmania set itself to be known alongside Scotland and Japan as

one of the three major whisky-producing regions in the world.

“We are starting to become known and spoken of in this regard.”

Mr Brett said this status was further demonstrated by the fact that Tasmania was home to two members of the Australian Distillers Hall of Fame – Bill Lark and Patrick Maguire.

Business Events

Tasmania CEO Marnie Craig expects the convention, which received funding from the Tasmanian Government’s Business Events Attraction Fund, to attract 450 international and domestic delegates.

“The conference perfectly aligns to one of the state’s key industry sectors - Tasmania has an excellent reputation

for its high-quality beers, spirits and ciders,” she said.

“We are very pleased to have played a role in first attracting the convention to Tasmania and then exposing the state and its fine products to delegates from similar industries in the Asia Pacific region.”

Anne Gigney, Tasmanian-based IBD Asia-Pacific board director, said the Institute would pull together a dynamic itinerary that would showcase the state’s brewers and distillers, along with Tasmania’s incredible environment and food scene.

“There’s much excitement about Hobart as the home for the 38th Asia-Pacific Convention,” she said.

Adam goes out on a limb

NEW local business Tiger Tree Care is filling a gap in the Tasmanian market by offering clients sustainable tree care and management.

Tiger Tree Care was launched last September by qualified arborist Adam Penkala, who wanted to help build a relationship between people and their trees.

At only 28 years old, Mr Penkala is working to change the game for arborists in Tasmania by offering clients an alternative solution than tree removal wherever possible.

“For many of our clients we have been able to save trees by using specialised

pruning techniques and creating long-term tree management plans,” he said.

“I believe it’s important to keep a healthy tree alive; however if the tree is a pest species or dangerous to people or property, I have no issues getting rid of it.

“People in Tasmania are becoming more aware of the value and importance of trees, both for their place within ecosystems and for water retention and soil stability.

“I want to help Tasmanians look after the spectacular trees they have and preserve them for future generations to come.”

Raised in the UK, Mr Penkala began working with trees in 2015 under the guidance of experienced arborists and went on to work for several companies in the UK before relocating to New Zealand three years ago.

“I ended up working with some of the best tree care companies in the country,” he said.

"I worked in all disciplines of arboriculture - from storm-damaged trees in Auckland, to fine pruning in the Christchurch Botanical Gardens, to residential reductions in the Queenstown Lakes."

Adam Penkala competing in the aerial rescue event at the recent Tasmanian Tree Climbing Championships

Business Events Tasmania CEO Marnie Craig and Tasmanian Whisky and Spirits Association president Cam Brett

Do you have difficulty hearing speech from the television or radio?

Do you suffer from tinnitus (ringing in the ears)?

Do you have trouble hearing in background noise?

If you have answered YES and you have been exposed to a noisy work environment, you may be entitled to compensation*.

environment, you may be entitled to compensation*. Terms

TCF help for shelter

A LOCAL crisis accommodation service is pioneering the use of trauma-informed design in the state, thanks to a $180,000 grant from the Tasmanian Community Fund (TCF).

The Hobart Women’s Shelter (HWS) will use trauma-informed design to improve the health, social and wellbeing outcomes of women and children who have experienced significant trauma.

Trauma-informed design recognises how the physical environment can affect someone’s mood, attitude, behaviour,

dignity and sense of identity. Environments like hospitals and police stations tend to be clinical, with stark white walls and artificial lights which do not support a person in a heightened state to feel safe.

The Hobart Women’s Shelter will use the TCF funding to embed traumainformed design into the shelter’s therapeutic programs room, recreation room and outdoor and playground areas, guided by principles such as improved privacy, physical comfort, flexibility, sustainability and creating a sense of home.

“This is such a unique opportunity to be pioneering the importance of design for those who are working with, and those who have experienced trauma,” HWS Strategic Partnerships Manager Ruby Finlen said.

“We want to create spaces that promote safety, wellbeing and healing for those in a crisis state.”

Ms Finlen said the demand for emergency accommodation services had skyrocketed in recent years.

“Last financial year 1182 individual women and children reached out to us

seeking assistance and we had to turn away 943,” she said.

“The funding will really help to make our spaces more functional, feel brighter, safer, and help create a sense of home for the micro-community of women and children we support during a time of stabilisation.

“The quality of space matters enormously for those experiencing trauma and this funding has the opportunity to transform the provision of crisis accommodation in the sector.”

Work on the project is expected to be complete by December 2024.

Staying safe on our roads

THE latest campaign from the Tasmanian Government and the Road Safety Advisory Council (RSAC) highlights the risks of illegal mobile phone use and not wearing a seatbelt correctly while driving.

Appearing on Tasmanian TV screens, radio airwaves, digital media and billboards across the state, the ‘Click.Store. Go’ campaign is a reminder to Tasmanian motorists to always click on your seatbelt, store your phone and you’re good to go.

“This campaign is giving Tasmanian motorists plenty of notice that the new mobile phone and seatbelt detection cameras will soon be issuing fines, while giving recalcitrant drivers the chance to change

their ways,” RSAC chair Scott Tilyard said.

“All drivers engage in distracting activities while they are driving - changing a song, drinking a coffee, refereeing the kids in the backseat or checking your mobile phone. These are all activities that distract us and interfere with safe driving.

“However, increased use of mobile phones while driving is a type of distraction that has the biggest impact on driving behaviour.

“Evidence shows distraction caused by mobile phones can impair performance in a number of ways, notably braking reaction time, but also reaction to traffic signals, ability to keep in the correct lane, shorter following

distances, and an overall reduction in awareness of what is happening around you.

“If you don’t feel like you have the willpower to stop looking at your phone, you should turn it off and put it away.”

Mr Tilyard said incorrectly wearing a seatbelt is not necessarily the cause of crashes, but it does increase the severity of injury.

“Although it’s hard to believe there are some people who still choose not to wear a seatbelt, this simple action can reduce the risk of being killed in a crash by up to 50 per cent,” he said.

“So please, always wear your seatbelt correctly and make sure your passengers do too.”

Mackenzie Archer

L-R) TCF board member Ric De Santi and client manager Anna Dryburgh, HWS board member Keirran Downham, Samantha Donnell from UTS, Variety Tasmania CEO Mohammad Aldergham and HWS strategic partnerships manager Ruby Finlen

Tracey’s Tassie trek for a cause

MELBOURNE

grandmother Tracey Spithill has walked the entire length of Tasmania to raise vital funds for a cause close to her heart.

In 30 days, Ms Spithill raised more than $6000 for Australian-based charity Destiny Rescue, an organisation dedicated to protecting children across the globe.

Beginning at Low Head on 20 March, Ms Spithill walked more than 300km south to Hobart, finishing the final leg of her challenge at the summit of kunanyi/ Mount Wellington on 19 April.

“I visited Thailand with

my daughter in 2016 and saw first-hand the impact of child sex exploitation and it moved me deeply,” she said.

“I’m still emotional about it today so if someone like me can do a trek like this at my age then I think anyone can.”

This was the second time Ms Spithill had completed a walking challenge for Destiny Rescue - in 2018 she walked from Sydney to Melbourne and raised more than $7500.

“Destiny Rescue operates in nine countries across the Asia Pacific and African region and it costs on average $1,800

to rescue one child from sexual slavery,” she said.

Destiny Rescue CEO Paul Mergard said people like Ms Spithill who were willing to give up their time to help fight against the world’s fastest growing crisis were truly incredible.

“The fundraising efforts from these amazing people will go towards investigative work, rescue and recovery, reintegration and ongoing protection of young girls across the globe,” he said.

“Her act of kindness and generosity will be life-changing for the young children we rescue tomorrow.”

Progress made on new ‘park and ride’ facilities

DESIGNS are progressing for three new ‘park and ride’ facilities that will provide more transport options to meet the needs of Hobart’s major residential centres.

Designed to integrate with existing transport infrastructure including pedestrian and cycle pathways and existing and future bus routes, the new park and rides will be located on Pass Road at Rokeby, the Claremont Link Road at Claremont and Fenton Street in Midway Point.

“The new facilities will have convenient modern amenities, such as all-weather bus shelters and secure bicycle storage, and provide ample parking including

Upgrade makes Midtown safer

accessible spaces,” Infrastructure and Transport Minister Michael Ferguson said.

“These facilities make catching the bus easier and more comfortable, and lead to increased public transport patronage which will help ease traffic congestion.”

The designs are well advanced, with construction on the Midway Point site set to begin late this year.

Construction at Claremont and Rokeby is scheduled to start mid2024.

Two park and ride facilities to serve the Kingborough area were opened at Huntingfield and Firthside last year.

HOBART FM Radio

Monday 6am: Monday Breakfast with John Evans. 9am: Mandy’s Monday Morning Mix. Midday: Lunchtime Classics with Rick Rae. 2pm: Monday Variety with Shirley

Nicolle. 4pm: Reeling in the Years with Dave Batchelor. 6pm: Glenn’s Country With Glenn Gillie. 8pm: Classic Ride with Melvin Freestone. 10pm: Music of Your Life overnight

Tuesday 6am: Wake Up with Kaye Payne. 9am: Bringing Back the Memories with David Carr. Midday: Beats and Ballads with Phil Williams.

3pm: Tuesday Drive with Mal Dennis. 6pm: Mostly Folk with Helen Morrison/Ross Sermons.

8pm: Late Nite Hits with Marg.

10pm: Night Owl Club with Ron Andersen. Midnight: Music of Your Life overnight

Wednesday

6am: Wednesday Breakfast with John Evans. 9am: Bright and

A MAJOR upgrade to the busy intersection of Elizabeth and Patrick streets in Midtown has been completed, making the crossing much safer for pedestrians and drivers.

In response to safety concerns raised by the community, the intersection has been upgraded with a new level pedestrian crossing, two new traffic islands, kerb extensions and landscaping, with provision for future tree plantings.

“The installation of two new traffic islands and a raised crossing will greatly improve safety and accessibility for all pedestrians, especially those with additional mobility requirements,” City Mobility Portfolio chair Cr Ryan Posselt said.

“The new pedestrian crossing will

also benefit students attending nearby Elizabeth College and improve walkability for all residents and visitors.”

Hobart Lord Mayor Anna Reynolds said the project was part of the bigger picture for Hobart.

“Elizabeth Street from the city to North Hobart has the potential of becoming one of the Australia’s most interesting and people-friendly streets,” Cr Reynolds said.

“The business community is already investing in this street and we are seeing lots of great new venues opening in this area.

“As a Council we can help add to this vibrancy by investing in safer crossings and street trees to beautify the area.”

Margs Williams

Margs co-hosted a show on Hobart FM from 2007 until 2012, when she moved to Queensland. Life brought her back to Tassie - and Hobart FM - in 2020.

Being a drummer and singer in her youth, Margs appreciates a good beat as much as a great melody. She prides herself on keeping listeners of all ages happy

Breezy Mix with Kathy. Midday: Wednesday Lunch with Phil Tyson. 2pm: Showtime with Ron Andersen. 4pm: Revival show with Johnny Dallas. 6pm: Wednesday Jukebox with Robbo. 8pm: Country Jukebox with Russell.

10pm: Music of Your Life with Michael Holloway. Midnight: Music of Your Life overnight

Thursday 6am Breakfast with Craig Cracknell. 9am: Magic Music Mix with Tom Payne. Midday: Music of Your Life with Karina

Ceron. 2pm: My Collection with Ken Tanner. 4pm: Drive with John Evans. 6pm: Serbian. 7pm:

Chinese. 8pm: Contrasts in Classic Jazz. 10pm:

The Midtown intersection upgrade has been funded through the Australian Government’s road safety Black Spot Program and the City of Hobart’s capital works budget.

“The upgrade to this busy intersection will ensure the safety of vulnerable road users and drivers alike, both now and into the future,” Assistant Minister for Infrastructure and Transport Carol Brown said. “The Australian Government’s Black Spot Program is about keeping everyone safe.

“In particular, the raised pedestrian crossing on the left side of Elizabeth Street heading north will greatly improve accessibility for all pedestrians, especially those with additional mobility requirements.”

by presenting a wide variety of music, from the current chart-topping hits to her frequent trips back through the decades when she jumps in “The Time Machine”. Margs loves to interact with her listeners through Instagram (@margs_hobartfm).

Join her from 8-10pm on Tuesday evenings for ‘The Early Late Show’.

Tracey Spithill in South Hobart as she nears the end of her walk across Tasmania for Destiny Rescue

Something for all at Law Week 2023

LAW Week is 15–21 May 2023. Law Week is an annual event in Tasmania that provides everyone in the community with opportunities to learn about the law and their legal rights. There are a range of free events designed to make learning about the law easy and accessible to everyone. The events are delivered by different organisations across Tasmania from within the legal, community and not-for-profit sectors. You will have a chance to learn vital information about the law and its role in society. Whether you’re seeking answers to legal questions or just interested in learning more about the law, we hope that Law Week has something for everyone.

As part of Law Week you might like to:

• Attend our launch event at the Law School with a keynote speech by the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Tasmania, the Hon Alan Blow AO; then stay on to

participate in a Q&A-style panel about enacting a human rights act in Tasmania.

The panel, facilitated by Robin Banks and Yvette Maker, includes Disability Voices Tasmania CEO Vaughn Bennison, Rodney Croome AM from Equality Tasmania, Tasmanian Human Rights Act Campaign Committee convenor Richard Griggs, Jess Munday from Unions Tasmania and Anja Hilkemeijer from UTAS.

• Take a tour of the Supreme Court in Salamanca afterhours.

• Participate in a Supreme Court sentencing workshop – you be the judge!

• Attend pop-up clinics organised by Workers Assist Tasmania to learn about your workplace rights if you’ve been injured at work.

• Join a seminar on Tasmanian Tigers and Freshwater Snails to find out what role the law has in (de)extinction.

• Attend seminars organised by the Public Trustee to learn how to protect and make

your financial, medical and legal wishes known.

• Find out how the law can be an instrument of change.

• Find out how to use the free library legal resources at the Tasmanian Andrew Inglis Clark Law Library using an online guide.

• Learn about the Family Violence Migration service offered by the Tasmanian Refugee Legal Service on its latest podcast.

• Delve into a series of podcasts from the Women’s Legal Service which offer insights into the difficulties and inequalities women face in legal proceedings, and which act as a guide if you find yourself having to navigate your way through the complexities of the family law system. Presented by Penny Terry.

We are adding events right up until Law Week so keep an eye on our website: www. lawweektas.com.au

The Legal Profession Board of Tasmania is proud to present Law Week to the community.

The Gift: a tale from two cities

LOCAL theatre producers Katharine and Chris Hamley spend a lot of time on the highway travelling from Hobart to Launceston and the north-west coast, seeing as many theatre productions as their busy schedules allow. Now their travels have inspired them to foster cross-region collaborations and showcase the skills and talents of performers outside of their homebase to wider audiences. For their current production ‘The Gift’, Hamley Productions has cast two Hobartbased actors and two Launceston-based actors, and are staging a season of the four-handed show in both cities.

“There’s just so much talent up in Launceston that Hobart audiences never see, and vice versa,” Chris said.

“We’re really thrilled to be able to bring some of the top Launnie talent to Hobart for our show, and to send our home-town performers up north to be seen on stage there.

“The actors we’ve cast are highly experienced, so talented, and wellknown within their own regions so we’re very excited to showcase their skills in cities outside their usual hometown.”

Written by acclaimed Australian playwright, screenwriter and novelist Joanna Murray-Smith, ‘The Gift’ features complicated, multilayered characters dealing with very relatable issues.

Ed and Sadie meet Martin and Chloe at a tropical resort, and instantly hit it off. Over drunken conversations and a near-tragedy, the two couples explore the tedium of consumerism, contemporary life values, the commodification of art, and social integrities.

A witty examination of our modern moral confusions, ‘The Gift’ features an ingenious twist and a life-changing proposition that leaves audiences debating whether or not they would accept ‘the gift’.

Katharine and Chris created Hamley Productions in 2016 and

have produced eight works, ranging from in-theatre performances to outdoor theatre and children’s shows. They also teach drama to kids of all ages through O’Grady Drama, passionately inspiring young performers and building confidence and social skills.

“We are very keen to develop challenging theatre that can both inspire and entertain wider audiences,” Katharine said.

“As well as providing performance opportunities to local actors and producing quality staged theatre, we have a strong desire to showcase these talented performers to wider Tasmanian audiences.”

Starring Andrew Casey, Chris Jackson, Tia Landeg and Clare Pearson, ‘The Gift’ will be staged at the Salamanca Arts Centre’s Peacock Theatre from 26 May to 3 June, and at Launceston’s Earl Arts Centre from 4-6 October. For tickets and more details, go to https:// hamleyproductions.com.au

Andrew Casey, Chris Jackson, Tia Landeg and Clare Pearson star in ‘The Gift’

Drive so others survive

Be part of the growth of the Chigwell Community Garden

FROM crisp lettuce to hearty silverbeet, fresh kale to fragrant parsley and more, the bounty just keeps growing at the Chigwell Community Garden!

It has been an incredibly fruitful few months since the garden re-opened on 2 February, with more than 200 kilograms of delicious, nutritious food produced and given away free of charge to the local community.

Now, mark your calendars for 28 June because that’s when the garden will unveil its brand new Aboriginal Bush Tucker garden!

Developed in partnership with Relationships Australia Tasmania, the project was funded by the Healthy Tasmania Fund through the Tasmanian Government, and supported by the Chigwell Child and Family Centre.

At the grand opening event (10am-1pm), children and families can immerse themselves in the wonders of nature, learn all about bush tucker, and even roll up their sleeves and help plant some themselves.

And the Chigwell Community Garden has even more exciting news

to share – it recently received a grant from the Tasmanian Government to purchase a second shipping container!

With so much growth and expansion happening, you won’t want to miss a moment. So come on down to the Garden from 102pm on Wednesdays or 10.30am-1pm Thursdays (Playgroup) and see what delicious food you can take home with you.

It’s all happening here, and you’re invited to be a part of it! For more information, phone Conrad at the Bucaan Community House on 6249 5363.

Not sure what to do with that extra parsley? How about making a tabouli salad to add to some grilled chicken?

Tabouli

We are always looking for donations of large jars for preserving, pots, potting mix, seedlings and hessian sacks. If there are any keen gardeners out there in the Chigwell area who would like to distribute their surplus, please contact Conrad!

MOTORCYCLISTS continue to be overrepresented in Tasmania’s serious casualty crashes.

Despite representing only five per cent of the vehicle fleet, motorcyclists make up approximately 25 per cent of serious casualties on Tasmanian roads.

Motorcyclists are extremely vulnerable road users because there is very little to protect them and in the event of a crash, they are more likely to be seriously injured or killed than passengers in a car.

The Full Gear motorcycle training program was launched by Glenorchy City Council and Bucaan Community House in 2017 in response to concerning road safety statistics that showed young

people were over-represented in serious injury crashes and fatalities, as well as community concern about unlicensed and dangerous riding on local streets.

Full Gear was co-designed by young people and encourages participants to engage positively in motorcycle road safety education. In exchange, participants receive help to overcome the cost of obtaining a motorbike licence and associated safety equipment - a common barrier for many young people.

The program, which is for 16 to 24-year-olds, aims to reduce risk-taking behaviours on the road, increase the number of licensed motorcycle riders, improve attitudes to road safety and educate the community.

It covers the cost of the learner licence test and provides participants with up to $400 towards the cost of motorcycle safety gear such as helmets and gloves.

By helping young people get a motorcycle licence, the program gives them the independence to get around without the need to rely on lifts or miss out on opportunities.

It also teaches them how to be respectful and responsible road users and teaches that illegal or hoon behaviour puts everyone’s life at risk.

For more information about the Full Gear motorcycle program, contact Conrad Gilbey at Glenorchy City Council on 6216 6766.

(L-R): Full Gear coordinator Conrad Gilbey, Glenorchy Mayor Bec Thomas, Full Gear participant Willba Salter and Department of State Growth road safety manager Craig Hoey

Winslow Boy returns to Playhouse after 74 years

THE Hobart Repertory Theatre Society is reviving the timeless drama ‘The Winslow Boy’ at The Playhouse Theatre in June 2023.

Set in London circa 1910, this intriguing play is based on the true events surrounding the expulsion of a 13-yearold naval cadet for stealing.

The audience follows the boy’s family’s twoyear battle to clear his name. The play cleverly weaves family life, politics, romance and the social media of the day into the gripping legal story.

The play was last performed by Hobart Repertory back in 1949.

On that occasion, the title role of Ronnie Winslow was played by a teenaged Alan Hopgood, who went on to professional fame as an actor and playwright. Hopgood died in 2022, so it is only fitting that Rep is restaging ‘The Winslow Boy’ in 2023 to honour his contributions to stage and screen.

In 2023, the role of Ronnie is being shared by talented local actors Zac Forey and Stella Wesseldine – dubbed by the rest of the cast as “The Two Ronnies”.

Director Meredith McQueen has long held a desire to bring a production of ‘The Winslow Boy’ to the Hobart stage.

“The playwright Terence Rattigan was a master dramatist whose work has often been unfairly overlooked,” she says.

“He had a great talent for bringing us diverse characters who generate a range of emotions in the onlooker.

“Basically, he told a rollickingly good story that is still very relevant and will engage audiences throughout”.

This Hobart Rep production is also a fine example of

true community theatre. A team of keen assistants have helped to construct an Edwardian drawing room set and sew the period costumes. The casting has called for a group of actors ranging in age from 13 to 72. And there is the bonus of a delightful cameo performance by Icelandic actor Sigrun Osk Johannesdottir!

‘The Winslow Boy’ will have 12 performances from 9 – 24 June, including matinees on 18 and 24 June. Tickets are $36$45 and are available at the theatre’s box office in Bathurst Street and at via playhouse.org.au

Kick-start your health career

ARE you looking for a career change? Perhaps thought about studying nursing? Well, now is the time do it!

The Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (ANMF) Tasmanian Branch established the Health Education and Research Centre (HERC) in Hobart in 2013 in order to provide accessible, high-quality training for health professionals.

The HLT54121 Diploma of Nursing reflects the role of an Enrolled Nurse working under supervision of a Registered Nurse and covers the application of skills and knowledge required to undertake your role competently and professionally within a variety of health care settings.

The 18 months is comprised of face-to-face, online learning, and structured work placement of 12 weeks in total. This course requires full-time study – two days per week of face-to-face learning (9am to 3pm), plus the equivalent of three days per week self-directed learning.

There are 25 units in this course - 20 compulsory units and five electives. To achieve this qualification, students are also required to complete a minimum of 400 hours of successful clinical placement in a variety of healthcare settings.

Once qualified you will be eligible to apply to AHPRA for registration as an Enrolled Nurse.

HERC’s nationally accredited training will provide you with the skills and knowledge needed to

kick-start your career in the health industry. Students at HERC have successfully graduated with widely accepted qualifications at Certificate III and Diploma levels.

Once you have your initial qualification, HERC also offers opportunities to meet your continuing professional development (CPD) needs.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and culturally, socially, and linguistically diverse background applicants are encouraged to apply.

We continue to offer enrolments in our programs, and you are welcome to contact us via email info@herc. tas.edu.au or phone 6223 6777 and press option 2 if you have queries about how we can meet your educational needs.

Want to be part of the nursing team?

HLT54121 Diploma of Nursing is a qualification suited to those looking to kickstart their career in an expanding healthcare sector.

Hobart Repertory Theatre Society proudly presents proudly presented by arrangement with ORiGiNTM Theatrical, on behalf of Samuel French Ltd. a Concord Theatricals Company.

The Winslow Boy Postcard.indd 1

(L-R) Tom Howard, Louise Stubs, Philippa Clymo, Zac Forey and Ian McQueen star in ‘The Winslow Boy’. Pic credit: Wayne Wagg

ANMF Tasmanian Branch Secretary Emily Shepherd, HESTA High Achiever Award recipient Kacey Hills and Nurse Educator/CPD Coordinator Tamara Gee

WHEN Merv Stanton’s late wife moved into residential aged care over a decade ago, she looked out her bedroom window and said, “The garden is beautifully green, but there’s no colour”.

So Merv promptly set about bringing in vibrant colourful plants from the garden at their home in Wynyard in North-West Tasmania and planting them outside Margaret’s window at Uniting AgeWell Queenborough Rise Community in Sandy Bay.

“Margaret loved looking out at the bright bursts of colour,” Merv said. “It made her very happy.”

Merv moved to an independent living unit in Hobart, and over the next two years until Margaret’s death at the end of 2014, gradually transformed the garden into a triumph of reds, yellows and bluescolours for all seasons.

“I noticed the other residents loved the splashes of colour too,” Merv said. “They’d come out and admire

the flowers. So after Margaret’s death, Queenborough Rise Community asked me to stay on as a volunteer and work in the garden.”

It’s National Volunteering Week (May 15-21) and time to give a huge shout out to all the volunteers, like Merv, for their endless work and tireless energy in enriching the lives of others.

The theme for this year is ‘The Change Makers’, which celebrates the power to drive change and ensure volunteering is inclusive of all members of the Australian community.

“This theme rings true for us, where inclusion is a core value underpinning everything we do,” Uniting AgeWell General Manager Tasmania Jane Johnston said.

“With a long history of volunteer support, Uniting AgeWell’s services have grown and flourished; a vital contribution we recognise and appreciate.”

Merv, who is 96 years old, still works in the garden for a few hours every weekday and was touched when a sign “Merv’s Garden” was recently erected in the grounds.

“The more you give as a volunteer, the more you receive,” says the retired Anglican Minister. “I have gained so much personally through helping others. It’s wonderful.”

Merv has not only been busy in the garden. Over the years he’s called bingo, gone on bus trips with residents, helped set up the Garden Club, and looked after the library. He still prepares the quiz every fortnight – he used to do it weekly, but cut back so he could spend more time in the garden.

The great-grandfather still drives and says he’s in pretty good shape: “something I wouldn’t be in if I spent my days in front of TV doing nothing instead of working in the fresh air”.

And his advice to others thinking about

Merv Stanton outside the garden named in his honour

volunteering? “Do it! It’s important to see where we can help others,” he says.

“That’s what life is all about.”

Jane says in many

cases, volunteering has been a pathway into finding a permanent role at the organisation.

“It’s understandable, really - one of the prerequisites for working

at Uniting AgeWell is kindness. And you have to be a special, kind person to volunteer.”

can visit their website at unitingagewell.org or call 13 93 75 to see how you too can enrich the lives of older people – and your own!

Get involved today! Find out more 13 93 75 unitingagewell.org/get-involved volunteers@unitingagewell.org Choose from a range of volunteer opportunities:  Social connections  Transporting clients  Home visits  Contributing to events and activities Volunteer with us Make a difference in the lives of older people, make new friends and improve your own wellbeing. Uniting AgeWell supports older people across Victoria and Tasmania through home and community services, retirement living and residential aged care.  Gardening  Entertainment  Supporting lifestyle activities  Office administration

congratulates all students who received awards at the Awards Presentation Evening for 2022 Achievers

PH Mitchell Prize for Dux of Hobart College

Mackenna Minstrell and Akihiro Katsuta

Principal’s Awards for Academic Excellence Year 12

Matthew Aschmann, Mei Booker, Romi Bunda, Leo Buttermore, Mary Carajias, Olivia Collinson, Cesare Conforti, Lara Corban, Leo Dietz Sanz, Emma Elliott, Oliver Forsman, Lourdas Gavaghan, Orlando Goodwolf, Millie Graham-Smith, Jacob Hardie, Francesca Harkin, Isabella Hippel, Layla Hocking, Calum Horne, Elijah Hughes, Kim Kahng, Akihiro Katsuta, Maya Kukola, Briony Kullrich, Jacob Lancaster, Ruby Logan, Adelle Massom, Charles McDonnell, James McEwan, Esther Mills-King, Mackenna Minstrell, Nicholas Muir, Nirmit Naik, Narryna Nicholas, Yuvani Pal, Luca Pitt, Emma Pursell, Sebastian Rinaldi, Lachlan Rogers, Emma Rohrlach, Zali Rowe, Ruby Saunders, Matteo Scavone, Tessa Shea, Dharma Simpkins, Brielle Smith, Luke Smith, Arisandra Soo, Valentin Stamatov, Isabella Verdouw, Rhys Walker, Sean Wilson and Olivia Wright

Prizes and Scholarships

HV Biggins Exhibition for Year 11 Dux

Old Hobartian Association Prizes for Scholarship, Sportsmanship & Character (Year 11)

Old Hobartian Association Prizes for Scholarship, Sportsmanship & Character (Year 12)

Old Hobartian Centenary UTAS Scholarships

The Tall Foundation Tasmania University Scholarship

Roger and Maxeme Tall Scholarship

Rotary Club of Salamanca Achievement Scholarship

ADF Long Tan Leadership & Teamwork Award (Year 12)

ADF Future Innovator’s Award

Ampol Award for Best All-Rounder

Sue Farquhar Photography Prize

Iain MacDonald Prize for Art

Dr Wayne Brookes “Damn Fine Colouring in Prize”

GE Morris Prize for Music

Performing Arts Prize

Oliver Wilson English Prize

PF Davidson History Prize

Jemima Baghurst

Grace Ren, Thomas Thornton, Django Richardson, Eva Sabapathy, Anne Poynter, Chelsea March, Jessalyn Potter & Alex Hanigan

Jacob Lancaster, Millie Graham-Smith, Lachlan Rogers, Narryna Nicholas, Isabella Hippel & Jacob Hardie

Lacey Cordwell & Matteo Scavone

Joshua Hale

Aisha Bissett, Theodore Brown, Jou Cutler, Mary Shilcock & Ruby Levett

Hamed Rezaie

Elijah Hughes

Tessa Shea

Adelle Massom

Anna Croser & Jack Lloyd-Parker

Ella Murray-Grosse

Poppy Robinson

Reuben Webb

Briony Kullrich

Briony Kullrich

Petra Kessler

Wayne

Sutton Geography and the Environment Prize

Bronwen Bowman Award for Application and Achievement

Outstanding Contribution to Sport and Recreation

Old Hobartian Association Gerlach Memorial Prize - Year 11 English & Humanities

Old Hobartian Association Gerlach Memorial Prize - Year 11 Science & Mathematics

Rex Wilson Outstanding Academic Achievement Award

Aboriginal Support Program Academic Award

Environmental Champion Award

Minister for Education, Children and Youth Respectful Student Award

O’Shannessey Award for Service to the College

Heidi Chan International Fellowship Award

Oustanding Achievement Award for International Students

AEU Social Justice Award

TASC Award for Outstanding Academic Achievement

TASC Award for Outstanding Achievement in VET:

Certificate II in Creative Industries

Certificate III in Music

Certificate II in Applied Digital Technologies

Certificate II in Community Services - Children’s Services

Certificate II in Tourism

Certificate II in Sport and Recreation

Certificate II in Creative Industries

Certificate II in Kitchen Operations

Certificate III in Health Services Assistance

Oliver Thomas

Samuel Beadell & Lara McGill

Lachlan Johnstone

Noah Gladdish

Nicholas Carmichael

Francesca Harkin, James McEwan, Nirmit Naik & Sean Wilson

Harry Muskett

Aisha Bissett & Ryan Meredith

Kai Kilmister & Gabrielle Cousins

Elijah Hughes & Poppy Bull

Ryunhyng Lee

Akihiro Katsuta

Evan Eastman-Peck

Jacob Lancaster, Francesca Harkin, Akihiro Katsuta, Adelle Massom, Mackenna Minstrell, Nirmit Naik, Narryna Nicholas& Lachlan Rogers

Hugh Clements

Dorian Clennett

Edwin Coward

Chelsea Crellin

Matilda Harvey

Lachlan Johnstone

Kezziah O’Toole

Briony Watts

Layla Ferguson

Thank you to our generous sponsors

Elise Archer MP, Senator Catryna Bilyk, Senator Carol Brown, Madeleine Ogilvie MP, Cassy O’Connor MP, Rob Valentine MLC, Andrew Wilkie MP, Roger Jaensch MP, Meg Webb MLC & Ella Haddad MP

PH Mitchell Trust, Old Hobartian Association, The Tall Foundation (Roger and Maxeme Tall), Rotary Club of Salamanca, Australian Defence Forces & Ampol Australia

Kingston Floorcovering Warehouse, Plumbing by Stuart Florence, The Carpet Company, WINC, Resource Work Cooperative & Office National

Hobart College

Department for Education, Children and Young People

Celebrate success at Hobart College

ON Wednesday 29 March, Hobart College celebrated the 2022 cultural, academic and sporting achievements of more than 350 students in front of family, friends and dignitaries at the Mount Nelson Theatre.

After the disappointing decision to cancel the annual event in 2022 because of COVID restrictions, it was wonderful to be able to publicly recognise students for a range of attributes including leadership,

character, service to the community and personal excellence.

“The Awards Evening was brilliant,” Acting Principal Dr Elizabeth Robinson said.

“Highlights included acknowledging the 19 students who were in the list of Top 100 ranked Tertiary Entrance scores in the state, the 59 students who achieved an Australian Tertiary Admission Ranking (ATAR) above 85, and the 154 students who achieved

a perfect score in their pretertiary subject.”

Hobart College alumnus Dr Lewis Johnson provided the occasional address and spoke highly of the grit, resilience and study habits evident in Hobart College graduates while studying medicine at UTAS.

The graduating Year 12 cohort for 2022 certainly epitomised these traits, demonstrating optimism and resourcefulness during their two years of study.

RHH Intern of the Year Dr Lewis Johnson and acting Hobart College principal Dr Elizabeth Robinson

AEU Social Justice Award winner Evan Eastman-Peck and family

KEV

Greyhound, Black/grey

Male, Large, 1 year and 1 month young Vision Impaired, but still proven to have keen vision.

Kev is a handsome gentle giant and is eager to please. Kev is a confident boy and will make great company. He walks gently on the lead and is very mature for his age. He loves a good brush and a laze in the sunshine. Kev would be more suited in a home where he is the only animal.

OLIVE Domestic Shorthair Cat, female, 2 years and 3 months

Meet Olive!

Sweet and laid back Olive loves a good chin scratch and gets tail wiggles when she’s excited. She enjoys sitting on top of her cat tree to sticky beak on her neighbours, and will do anything for food. She loves people, but is also happy doing her own thing. ,all she asks is for a cozy spot to curl up in and lots of time for cuddles.

APOLLO

Thoroughbred Horse, male, 16 years and 7 months.

Sweet, well mannered, easy to handle and have around.

Looking for a retirement home. Must have another equine for company.

‘Sings for his food’. Please call to arrange a viewing appointment as Apollo is currently available for adoption from his foster home.

SALTY

Greyhound, female, large, black/white, 1 year and I month young.

Salty is a dream dog!

She’s calm, responsive, smart, a quick learner, so clever and overall, a complete joy. She is a busy girl and loves to trot around the place looking for fun. She’s a very happy girl and adores a cuddle and kiss. Salty is very quirky and full of personality, no doubt she will keep you occupied. Salty will benefit from a household where she is the only animal. She has passed her assessment and is ready for your couch.

Great event for dogs

The Million Paws Walk is on again for 2023

Looking for a fun and a meaningful way to spend a Sunday in May as a dog lover? Look no further than the RSPCA’s Million Paws Walks! This annual charity fundraising event and fur family fun day is a fantastic opportunity to enjoy the company of your furry friend while also contributing to a good cause.

In Tasmania, there are three events held on different Sundays and at different unique locations, bringing together dogs and their families from all over the state to support a great

cause. The Million Paws Walks in Ulverstone, Launceston, and Hobart offer a unique experience at each location. Each event opens at 10 am, and at 11 am, everyone sets off on an approximately 2km ambassador-led walk or doggy dawdle at their own pace.

Aside from the walk, there are plenty of opportunities to socialize, play, and compete in a variety of games and activities before and after the walk. The event also features food vans serving hot and cold drinks and

delicious treats for both humans and dogs. Plus, there will be a variety of stalls showcasing a wide range of products and services for both dogs and their owners, from dog grooming to pet photography, and dog toys and accessories.

Apart from all the fun and excitement, this charity event is an excellent way to support the work of RSPCA Tasmania. The funds raised through this event will help the RSPCA continue its vital work in rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming animals in need.

Tickets to Million Paws Walk events make an ideal gift for dog lovers and their furry friends. Register online today and start looking forward to a fun-filled day out that will make a real difference to the lives of animals in need.

ADOPT

Tigger Franklin Ginger Ninja!

3 Years Old Male #19408

Tigger Franklin is a talker and loves being around his humans. He’s affectionate and smoochy, loves to be picked up and held but prefers his own chair to sleep. After chill-time, he gets the zoomies and he’s off to play! Be sure to have scratching areas and high places for him to explore.

Herbie proves love is blind

HERBIE is a remarkable cat who captured the hearts of everyone who met him.

Milly Quiet and Independent!

9 Year Old Female #19462

Milly is a very sweet girl who loves to be around her humans. She loves a quick pat and then off to her own personal space, and doesn’t like to be held. She is very curious and loves to explore around the house, and is very happy to greet guests and get pats from them.

You can find our more about these kitties along with all of our kitties available for adoption at tenlives.com.au

Every cat has a story.

Are you part of it?

This one-year-old tabby and white boy had severely diseased eyes when he arrived at Ten Lives. He required an operation to remove his eyes to give him the best chance at a happy and healthy life.

Nevertheless, Herbie did not let his impairment hamper his zest for living. He adjusted to his blindness in the shelter while he waited for a kind soul to take him home.

Herbie soon acclimatised to his new environment in the shelter. The staff noticed that he had an exceptional sense of smell and hearing, which allowed him to navigate his surroundings with ease. He would use his whiskers to determine the contours of his enclosure, and he learnt to memorise the location of his food bowl and litter box through repetition.

Herbie’s lack of sight did not diminish his playful spirit either. He would entertain himself

by batting around toys or playing with a feather tickler. He developed a particular fondness for toys with bells in them since he could locate them quickly and appeared to be watching them despite his lack of vision!

While Herbie adapted well to shelter life, the staff and volunteers knew that he would thrive in a loving home. They were also aware that blind cats often have difficulty finding forever homes since people wrongly believe they will be too much of a burden. The volunteers knew that Herbie was a unique and delightful cat who deserved to find a family who would recognise his worth.

Herbie’s photos and story created a buzz on Facebook and Instagram. The posts about Herbie attracted a lot of engagement on social media, and people began enquiring about him. However, we needed to make sure they were the perfect match for Herbie. They would ideally need to live in a quiet home with no other pets and have the time to help Herbie slowly settle into his new home.

Finally after a month in the adoption rooms, he met his forever human. They had fallen in love with his personality, and his blindness was never a factor in their decision to adopt him. They could provide the safe, secure and loving home environment that Herbie needed.

Herbie is a testament to the resilience of animals, particularly those with disabilities. Despite losing his sight, he adapted to his limitations and remained his playful and affectionate self. His story is a reminder that adopting pets with special needs can not only be rewarding but

will also give them the chance to live fulfilling and happy lives.

Ten Lives Cat Centre is a self-funded animal charity that relies on donations and volunteers to care for and rehome the unwanted cats and kittens of Tasmania.

See how you can get involved: tenlives.com.au

Joel Diprose, Ten Lives Cat Centre

Herbie hasn’t let his blindness slow him down. Pic credit: Rachael Daniels

Herbie still loves to play. Pic credit: Diane Nicolson

Jo Cordell-Cooper

OVERNIGHT hiking can be a wonderful way to improve your fitness level. Hiking is a lowimpact, cardiovascular exercise that can help you improve your endurance, and build strength in your whole

body. When you add the element of overnight camping, you are also adding a more challenging aspect to your hike, which can further improve your fitness and enhance your life as it adds a sense of adventure.

A few weeks back

I walked into Bryan’s Beach at Freycinet National Park – I’d never been that far before and it is beautiful! I consider ‘’overnighters” an essential component to preparing for multiday hikes, such as the Larapinta Trail which I am doing in July. This

should take me about two weeks or so, so I want to be fit enough so I can enjoy every minute. What I discovered was:

• My new tent is cosy and sturdy

• My sleeping mat is not as comfortable as I’d like

• I need a lot more food than I usual (not that we went hungry, but I was very hungry for two days after the hike)

• Merino underwear takes forever to dry if you decide to go for a swim and did not pack bathers

• My new shoes are indeed waterproof and comfortable.

This is my first overnighter since preparing for Larapinta began last year. All my previously planned hikes had to be cancelled due to one reason or another so I am focused on making the most of every fitness opportunity I have.

To meet my fitness goals, which are to be fit enough to enjoy the hike and return without

an overuse injury, for the next 10 weeks I’ll be:

• Doing lower body exercises – squats, walking lunges, stepsups and calf raises twice a week

• Walking with a 1520kg pack when I walk the dog

• Hiking 2-6 hours once a week

• Crossing my fingers I remain well and injury-free until I leave!

• Incorporate hills into this training.

Advice I’d give anyone (including myself) embarking on a multiday adventure would be to have a few days flexibility in your schedule so you can rest, take it easy and have a full day off if needed. I have four

extra days up my sleeve if needed.

Also, remember to stay hydrated and fuel your body with nutritious foods to support your fitness goals. If you are interested in extended hiking fitness trips I have additional tips and trick in my blog on my website – www. jocc.com.au/hiking-fitlarapinta

Jo Cordell-Cooper is the Tasmanian Personal Trainer of the Year and an award-winning business owner of Jo CC Holistic PT. She specialises in hiking fitness and offers Friday NIGHT Hikes for beginners on the Eastern Shore. Make contact with her via email Jo@jocc.com.au or phone 0409862206.

Taking fitness to new heights Hobart

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Third Wednesday of every month at 6.30pm.

Level 2, 152 Macquarie St, Hobart.

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NEAPOLITAN COCONUT ICE SLICE

Ingredients

• 2 x 137g packets Oreo original biscuits

• 60g butter, melted and cooled

• 395g can sweetened condensed milk

• 2 cups desiccated coconut

• 1 cup shredded coconut

• 2 cups pure icing sugar

• ½ tsp strawberry essence

• ½ tsp vanilla essence

• Pink food colouring

• Icing sugar, to dust (optional)

Method

1 Grease and line the base of a 20cm square cake pan, allowing two long sides to overhang.

2 Process the Oreo biscuits in a food processor until finely chopped. Add the butter and process until combined. Press firmly into the base of the prepared pan. Place in the fridge for 15 minutes to firm.

3 Place the condensed milk, coconuts and sugar in a bowl. Stir well to combine. Transfer half of the mixture to another bowl and add vanilla essence. Press the vanilla mixture on top of the chocolate mixture in the cake pan. Use wet fingers to push down evenly.

4 Add the food colouring and strawberry essence to the remaining coconut mixture. Stir well to combine. Transfer to the pan and use wet fingers to press down firmly. Place in the fridge for an hour or until firm. Cut into squares and dust with icing sugar, if desired.

Hikers take a well-earned rest at Cooks Beach on the Freycinet Peninsula

A FINANCIAL MOMENT

Superannuation death nominations

Damian Gibson, Partner and Financial Adviser, Elevate Wealth

WITH approximately $3.3 trillion held in superannuation it is easy to understand that for most Australians, their super is commonly their second biggest asset behind their family home.

Therefore, it is important that your super goes where you want it to when you pass away. Unlike the family home, you must nominate beneficiaries to receive your super when you pass away. Consequently, determining who gets your super upon death isn’t as straightforward as just having a Will.

Gifting and loans

Hank Jongen, General Manager, Services Australia

HI everyone.

I’m often asked to explain Services Australia’s rules about gifting and loans. There aren’t any rules that stop you gifting, or loaning your cash or other assets - it’s your money and you can do what you like with it.

But gifting or loaning your assets can impact how we calculate your income support payments. Remember you need to tell Centrelink each time you make a gift or loan.

A gift occurs when you transfer an asset to someone and you don’t get suitable value in return.

Gifting includes things like paying for a holiday or living costs for someone who isn’t your partner or dependent. Gifts are assessed regardless of the reason for the transfer. For example, if

you’re paying school fees for a grandchild each term, that is a gift or a series of small gifts.

The biggest difference between a gift and a loan is the intention for the recipient to return the assets. If you expect the asset to be returned, either all at once or a series of repayments, then it’s a loan. If there’s no intention for the asset to be returned, it’s a gift.

There’s a gifting free area that applies before you’ll see a change to your income support payment. Regardless of whether you are single or a member of a couple the gifting free area is a maximum of $10,000 in any financial year, and $30,000 over a rolling five financial year period.

Any amount over these gifting free areas is assessed as a deemed financial asset and could affect your payment. Deeming is a set of rules used to work out the income created from your

financial assets. It assumes these assets earn a set rate of income, no matter what they really earn.

After five years have passed, the gift is no longer assessed as a deemed asset.

Loans are treated differently to gifts. If you loan money to someone, the total amount is assessed as a financial asset – that is, there is no $10,000 threshold before it impacts your payments. Loans are also assessable until repaid, however long it takes.

You don’t have to charge interest when loaning money, but your loan will still be subject to deeming.

You also don’t have to have documentation for the loan, but it’s something you should consider – it can make a big difference to your estate, so I’d recommend seeking legal advice.

Until next time, Hank Jongen

In most cases, you can make a death benefit nomination on your super or pension account. Your beneficiary nomination instructs your super provider as to who should receive your super balance upon death. However, there are restrictions as to who you can nominate.

Under the Superannuation Industry (Supervision) Act 1993 (SIS), you can nominate your super be paid to one or more of your dependants or your legal personal representative (your estate). A dependant can be a spouse, a child (of any age), or an interdependent.

It is also important to note that there are different tax consequences for different dependants and also how they can receive the benefit differs, i.e. lump sum or pension.

The validity of your nomination will only be assessed by your

super fund when the death benefit is payable. Therefore, it is essential that your nomination has been completed correctly and is valid at the time of making it. There are different types of nominations you can use:

Binding nominations

If you make a binding nomination your super fund (the trustee) is legally required to pay your super benefit to your listed beneficiary if they are an eligible beneficiary. The super benefit will be paid as cash to an eligible beneficiary.

A binding nomination provides greater certainty and peace of mind that your super will end up where you want it.

Binding nominations can be lapsing or non-lapsing. Lapsing nominations are generally valid for three years and then need to be re-submitted. This can pose some risk if a nomination lapses and you are not aware or you forget to resubmit a new nomination. On the other hand, non-lapsing nominations are in place for life or until cancelled or updated.

Non-binding nominations

If you make a nonbinding nomination the trustee is not legally required to follow your instructions. The trustee will use your non-binding nomination as a guide only.

This means that the trustee has full discretion to pay your death benefit to somebody else, such as your estate or another eligible beneficiary. Similar to above, the super benefit will be paid as cash to an eligible beneficiary.

Reversionary nominations

A reversionary nomination can only be made on an accountbased pension income stream. If you make a reversionary nomination (generally in favour of your spouse) your spouse or eligible beneficiary will take ownership of your account-based pension and will continue to receive regular income from this product upon your death.

Seek advice

It is important you understand the options available to you for your super when you pass away and what you can do to ensure it is paid according to your wishes. Elevate Wealth can review any nominations you already have in place to ensure they are in line with your needs and goals. We can also help you decide which type of nomination you may want to make and explain who you can nominate.

Any general advice in the publication has been prepared without taking into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Before you act on any general advice in this publication, you should consider whether it is appropriate to your individual circumstances. Please seek personal advice prior to acting on this information.

Damian Gibson

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Clare Street upgrades level the playing field

WOMEN and girls now have access to better sporting facilities in greater Hobart, with the recent opening of major upgrades to the Clare Street Oval change rooms and pavilion.

Home to the New Town White Eagles Soccer Club, the facility will also be used by the New Town Cricket Club, the Clarence Cricket

Club, Football Tasmania and Sacred Heart College.

Constructed in the 1970s, the original amenities and change rooms had become inadequate and outdated.

But the ground now boasts a brand-new sports pavilion with four change rooms, two accessible toilets, 10 lockable shower cubicles,

a new kiosk and two separate change rooms for umpires with separate bathrooms and showers.

New Town White Eagles women’s captain Ellen Curtis said the new facilities would be bonus for the home side and visitors alike.

“These new facilities are a significant asset to the club and benefit a wide range of competitions and

Inclusive soccer is a walk in the park

AN all-inclusive roundball game is helping to connect people in the northern suburbs.

Based on soccer, ‘walking football’ is a slow-paced and safe game without headers, sliding or contact. Players are required to keep one foot on the ground at all times and keep the ball below head height.

Now a group of local residents are trying to kickstart walking football in Tasmania. Team organiser Martin Watkins hopes the game will attract people of all ages, genders and abilities.

“The game is primarily aimed at the older generation but everyone who can walk is welcome to join in,” he said.

“The older generation can become isolated as they become less mobile and it is my hope that this low-impact game helps to reconnect older people in the community.”

Able to be played both indoors and outdoors, walking football can accommodate up to 11 players per side.

“The Claremont Copperheads have their first practice session on 4 May and once everyone is comfortable with the rules we will start organising

games within the club,” Mr Watkins said.

Mr Watkins encouraged anyone to come and try walking football, which has been found to improve balance, strength and coordination in older people.

“Be brave and come and join in - it is not hard work and we want everyone to be involved,” he said.

The first practice session will be held on Thursday 4 May at the southern end of the village green in Claremont. To register your interest, contact Marty Watkins on 0407 505 697.

teams that play at Clare Street,” Ms Curtis said.

“In particular with New Town’s own growing women’s program they fill an important role for our women and all those that come to play against us.

“By providing a safe, comfortable and clean environment we hope even more women are encouraged to play.”

Hobart Deputy Lord Mayor Helen Burnet said infrastructure upgrades like these had a huge benefit on participation and retention of women in sport.

“We know research shows light, bright and clean changing rooms creates a positive environment where young women and girls feel more comfortable

and confident, increasing female participation in sport,” Cr Burnet said.

The Hobart City Council contributed $850,000 towards the project, with the State Government providing $450,000 through the Levelling the Playing Field Grant Program.

“Projects like this are a perfect example of the Levelling the Playing

Field Program delivering grassroots sporting infrastructure,” Sport and Recreation Minister Nic Street said.

“The redevelopment of the facilities at Clare Street Oval Pavilion provide a secure, clean, safe space for women and girls and others requiring adaptive facilities to participate in local sporting club activities.”

Mackenzie Archer

Walking Football organiser Marty Watkins (centre) with Jeff Conoly and Elaine Jacques

L-R New Town players Agnes Parr, Ella Willmott, Gabe Tichanow, Grace Martin, Chloe Williams and Charlotte Butler outside the new facilities

including archery, dance, laser tag, orienteering, petanque, pickleball, yoga and quadball - a sport inspired by the fictional game of Quidditch from the popular ‘Harry Potter’ franchise.

Quadball organiser Hayden Reeve will be providing come-and-try taster sessions for the unique sport.

“Quadball is fast-paced and tactical with elements of netball, rugby, dodgeball and tag all rolled into one,” he said.

“It’s a fun way to stay active and make new friends.

“There are four unique positions to choose from, so there is a spot for everyone no matter what fitness level or previous experience you bring to the team.

“It’s a mixed gender sport

and the quadball community is very welcoming and inclusive.”

City of Hobart Strategic Recreation Program Planner Kellie Williams said Healthy Hobart had delivered 256 separate sessions since January 2017, using more than 30 different community and commercial venues across the city.

“The total attendance for Healthy Hobart so far is

5863, and more than 34 unique local providers have been involved in delivering the sessions,” she said.

“In the past 12 months, children’s dance has been big winner, but Tai Chi also more than doubled in attendances and we are hopeful the autumn/winter program can have similar success.

“These free sessions are a great opportunity to try

something completely new or return to a sport after a bit of a break.

“Getting out and active when the weather is a bit cooler is not only a great way to improve the body and the soul, but a chance to make new friends and leave behind the winter doldrums and have some fun.”

To sign up for the program visit hobartcity.com.au/ healthyhobart

Imogen Garth, Amelia Garth, Brooke Thomas and Quadball organiser Hayden Reeve at the Queens Domain