VOL 13 NO 1 FEBRUARY/MARCH 2022 www.brightoncommunitynews.com.au
A LIFETIME OF SERVICE RECOGNISED After thirty years of service to the Brighton community through the Jordan River Service (JRS), legendary local Helen Manser has stepped down as manager. Her dedication and compassion have spanned many years and roles, with Helen starting her working life at the age of 14. Giving a helping hand has been second nature to Helen. After the birth of baby number two, she wanted to get involved in something. She joined a local fundraising group and became a committee member. She then secured a job running a pet food shop at Cove Hill and worked in a coffee shop. During this time, Helen met Cris Fitzpatrick, who had a similar vision to Helen for the local communities of Gagebrook and Bridgewater, lamenting about the lack of support for women. Both women weren’t the kind to sit twiddling their thumbs, so along with some other mums, they set up The Women’s Room - a plan that was hatched over a beer in the backyard. In 1996 the Bridgewater and Gagebrook Urban Renewal Project (BURP)
was born. There are few with as much drive as Helen, but many have felt the benefits of BURP. Community enthusiasm reinforced the many projects led by BURP, including adult literacy classes, tree planting programs and women’s self-defence classes.
Following the wind-up of BURP, Helen became very active in the Gagebrook Community Centre, led the Jordan River Pensioners Club, and was a friendly face at The Waterbridge Food Co-op. Between encouraging socialising between seniors, and implementing health and wellbeing initiatives, her satisfaction was a result of seeing the locals solve problems in their local area themselves. One of her proudest moments was being awarded a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in 2018, which she describes as a very proud and humbling experience. “I consider that award to be recognition for the great work done by many other workers and community members,” Helen shared.
“My hope for all the community is that pride in who they are and where they are from grows and they hold their heads up when they say where they live. Stop using terms like ‘bogan’ and other negative terms.” The transition from seeing people ‘on the dole’ (a term she says with distaste) to volunteer-
ing, or getting a paid job is what she hopes JRS will continue to do beyond her tenure. “I hope JRS continues to do what they do best and that is support the community, encourage participation, provide opportunities and be prepared to listen. I also hope that JRS remains a safe, friendly environment to everyone, regardless of their
situation, no judgements,” she said. For now, after a little wind down and hopefully some travel, although Helen’s work has come to an end, there’s no doubt her legacy will stick around for a while. What a woman!
Bridgewater residents send pockets of love to Hillcrest Primary School The weight of the awful tragedy at Hillcrest Primary School in Devonport in December last year was felt around Tasmania. Since then some thoughtful Bridgewater residents have been doing their bit to make sure their love is carried to our Northern friends. Brighton Citizen of the Year, Elaine Scott, along with Diane Hart and Rosie Engler from Cafe Connections have been making hundreds of handmade felt hearts for those needing a little extra care and compassion. The 1000 Hearts project aims to help heal emotional scars by giving
In this issue:
people some extra love to carry in their pocket. “Diane, Rosie and I have made heaps of them. We wanted to donate them to those who were at, and affected by, the incident,’ says Elaine. “Rosie has also been making Trauma Teddies for the families of the children.” Federal Member for Lyons, Brian Mitchell said, “it’s a beautiful act of kindness from these wonderful ladies.” Mr Mitchell collected the handmade gifts and delivered them to community groups in Devonport before Christmas last year.
Have a community event coming up? Send your event details in to be included in our upcoming community calendar.
Email:
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New Bridgewater Bridge Contractor Announced | Local Award Winners | New Jobs Hub
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Brighton Community News / February/March 2022
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Published by the Brighton Council. It is distributed to households and businesses throughout the municipality. Circulation: In excess of 9,000.
YOUR COUNCIL
Managing Editor: Angela Turvey Editorial and Advertising: Steph Williams Email: communitynews@brighton.tas.gov.au Published by: Brighton Council 1 Tivoli Road, Old Beach TAS 7017 2022 edition deadlines: April/May edition Story ideas and contributions: Friday 4 March Advertising material: Friday 11 March
BRIGHTON COUNCIL
Brighton Council Meetings
Brighton GP clinics will now be able to recruit overseas-trained doctors and medical practitioners following a reclassification as a priority area. Brighton’s Distribution Priority Area (DPA) was reclassified following an application to the Federal Government’s “exceptional circumstances” review in a bid to fill current GP shortages here. The priority classification scheme allows medical practices to recruit doctors who are normally subject to location restrictions, such as those who trained overseas. It also includes recruiting
students who trained in a Commonwealth Supported Place in an Australian medical course who are required to work in regional, rural and remote areas as part of their studies. Liberal Senator for Tasmania, Claire Chandler welcomed the review. “We know how important it is for residents in regional areas to be able to access GP services and the difficulty that practices outside major cities often have in recruiting and retaining doctors,” Senator Chandler shared. “Issues surrounding recruitment and retention of GPs in Brighton were raised with me by Mayor Leigh
Gray at our first meeting in his official capacity. I’m very pleased to see the successful change in classification for Brighton to help address these issues.” The scheme has been running for three years by the Australian Government. It aims to address gaps in the medical workforce and encourage doctors to work in regional, rural and remote communities which are often understaffed compared to respective metropolitan areas. “We will continue to advocate for more support for GP attraction and retention in Lyons,” Senator Chandler said.
Meetings for 2022 held at Council Offices, 1 Tivoli Rd, Old Beach Ordinary Council 15 March and 19 April 2022
BARBARA CURRAN (Deputy Mayor) Brighton 7030 Tel: 0417 612 868 cr.curran@brighton.tas.gov. au AARON DE LA TORRE Brighton 7030 Tel: 0480 307 639 cr.delatorre@brighton.tas. gov.au WAYNE GARLICK Honeywood 7017 Tel: 0457 558 278 cr.garlick@brighton.tas.gov. au PETER GEARD Brighton 7030 Tel: 6268 1143 / 0418 515 649 cr.geard@brighton.tas.gov. au MOYA JEFFRIES Brighton 7030 Tel: 6268 1530 / 0419 394 139 cr.jeffries@brighton.tas.gov. au
Planning Authority 8 March and 12 April 2022 Finance Committee 8 March and 12 April 2022
TENNILLE MURTAGH Bridgewater 7030 Tel: 0499 684 340 cr.murtagh@brighton.tas. gov.au
Agendas can be viewed online four days prior to the meetings at: www.brighton.tas.gov.au admin@brighton.tas.gov.au www.brighton.tas.gov.au
6268 7000 General Enquiries admin@brighton.tas.gov.au Email www.brighton.tas.gov.au Website
General Manager James Dryburgh Council Services Officer
LEIGH GRAY (Mayor) Brighton 7030 Tel: 6268 0704 / 0488 390 115 cr.gray@brighton.tas.gov.au
6268 7000 6268 7035
Environmental & Development Services 6268 7078 General Enquiries 6268 7016 Building Services 6268 7029 Health Services 6268 7041 Planning Services 6268 7000 Animal Control Physical Services Council Depot Manager Asset Services
6268 7000 6268 7000
Corporate Services Rates Enquiries Accounts Enquiries Cashier
6268 7025 6268 7001 6268 7000
After hours emergency
6268 7000
All correspondence should be addressed to the General Manager, Brighton Council, 1 Tivoli Road, Old Beach 7017.
Play your part in a Covid safe return to school
The new school year has commenced and we understand there may be concerns about COVID-19. Schools are well prepared and have proac-
tive measures in place to help limit the impact of COVID-19 in schools. Families can help by getting their children vaccinated when eligible. You should also
keep them home if sick and notify public health and the school if they do contract COVID-19. By all working together, we can ensure our children can continue to learn in a COVID-safe way.
PHILIP OWEN Old Beach 7017 Tel: 6249 8575 / 0419 333 252 cr.owen@brighton.tas.gov. au JESSICA WHELAN Brighton 7030 Tel: 0415 732 805 cr.whelan@brighton.tas.gov. au
2022 Immunisation Clinics Brighton Council provides FREE monthly immunisation clinics at the Brighton Civic Centre, 25 Green Point Road, Bridgewater from 2–3pm on these dates: Tuesday 4 January Tuesday 1 February Tuesday 1 March Tuesday 12 April Tuesday 3 May Tuesday 7 June
For inquiries please call Brighton Council’s Environmental Health Officer (03) 6268 7029
admin@brighton.tas.gov.au www.brighton.tas.gov.au
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Brighton Community News / February/March 2022
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WATER UNDER THE NEW BRIDGES
New Bridgewater Bridge contractor announced If you drive one of 22,000 cars that travel across the Bridgewater Bridge each day, you’ll be happy to see construction starting for an additional four lane bridge downstream of the existing one. This will be the largest transport infrastructure project in Tasmania’s history.
It was recently announced that the successful contractor is McConnell Dowell, and the work will cost an estimated $786 million. The bridge will have more traffic lanes, better interchanges at Granton and Bridgewater, a safe shared pathway for cyclists and pedestrians, and a navigation height matching the Bowen Bridge. Brighton Council Mayor Leigh Gray explained, “Our local community expressed the need for better links for local traffic and as a result the chosen design incorporates an on-ramp from Boyer Road directly onto the bridge for traffic travelling south.” Improving safety and reducing congestion were key considerations in the design
process. Mayor Gray described the process as having been in the works for a number of years and it was “gratifying that it is about to become reality.”
time and within budget. The previous structures were made from timber, and were deteriorating rapidly and beyond economical repair.
The scale of the project is also a welcome boost for education, training and employment in the area with 830 jobs created directly and indirectly from the project. There are 200 new jobs up for grabs for locals, with 25% to be recruited from Brighton, Derwent Valley and Glenorchy local government areas. “Brighton Council congratulates the State and Federal Governments for progressing such an important project,” says Mr Gray. The existing bridge was the fourth in its place, and at 75 years of age, has become expensive, unsafe and unreliable with talks in the pipeline of its potential removal once the new bridge is fully functional.
With a growing population and a need for greater user safety, replacement of the bridges was a priority. Residents and visitors have said goodbye to the old bridges, and instead will now drive over new, technically superior and low maintenance bridges until at least 2122, which is the lifespan to be expected from the new bridges.
Merriworth Road and Willowbrook Road Bridge Upgrades
Brighton Council is committed to upgrading facilities for its residents, ratepayers and visitors by utilising rate payments, sometimes in conjunction with grants, such as in this project.
All finished! Both the Merriworth and Willowbrook Bridges over Strathallan Rivulet in Tea Tree have been completed on
Constructed by Tasmanian specialist bridge contractors, BridgePro Engineering, the bridges will provide secure access in all weather conditions, ensuring Brighton Council ratepayers can get home safely regardless of the unpredictable Tasmanian weather.
Main picture: L-R: Daniel Longey (VEC), Minister Michael Ferguson, Senator Claire Chandler, David Sims (McConnell Dowell), at Downer Group premises at Austins Ferry. Top: The newly completed Merriworth Bridge. Bottom: An aerial view of the Willowbrook Bridge
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Brian Mitchell MP Your Federal Member for Lyons
For assistance with all federal matters, please feel free to contact me on (03) 6263 3721 or email me at Brian.Mitchell.MP@aph.gov.au
Authorised by Brian Mitchell MP (ALP, Tasmania) 28 Green Point Road Bridgewater TAS 7030
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Brighton Community News / February/March 2022
A MESSAGE FROM THE MAYOR - Leigh Gray
Exciting changes to come management team has prepared a COVID response plan and we’re ready to tackle what the next few months brings as we manage the virus as carefully and safely as possible.
Weʼve been through a lot over the last 12 months. Coming into 2022 things may be a little tough for a while in light of Tasmanian borders opening up and the inevitable spread of the COVID-19 virus. Council is well prepared for the year ahead and have all our arrangements in place to ensure work continues. Our
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That being said we have a big, exciting year in front of us, with major projects expecting to start in this calendar year. The Bridgewater Bridge will begin construction in the second half of the year after the approval process has been completed. This is the biggest infrastructure project in Tasmania’s history and it is on our own doorstep. It promises to create significant employment opportunities for locals and we’ll share further details with you along the way. The new Brighton High School is well into its planning stage and a start is expected in 2023. The Jordan River Learning Federation School Farm improvements are well underway
and we’ll see the start and completion of some new parks at Bridgewater, Gagebrook, Brighton and Herdsmans Cove. We have established a Jobs Hub for our region with our neighbouring Councils. This officially opens in February but is already kicking goals and creating employment and training opportunities for our residents. I’ve been appointed Chair of the sub-region of Councils that includes Brighton, Central Highlands, Derwent Valley and Southern Midlands. I’m excited about the co-operative nature of the group to further advance opportunities that benefit the region as a whole. This group of sub regional Councils has engaged KPMG to provide a report highlighting issues and infrastructure requirements for our region into the future. KPMG will prepare an Economic Infrastructure
Development Study to highlight the region’s growth profile, which will include the emerging regional growing pains and the infrastructure investment priorities we will need to respond to the foreseeable issues. We’ll receive the full report in February, providing our councils with information and insights into what we will need for the future as a region.
River Derwent, and a 25 minute express service to Hobart. We are fast approaching our budget time and although we have plans already in place for new assets and the upkeep of our existing infrastructure, we’re always open to suggestions from our residents. If you have any ideas on improvements we can make then please reach out and let us know.
You will read in this edition how Brighton Council recently welcomed the Greater Hobart Transport Vision and the requests for support from the State Government. The proposal will greatly benefit commuters and residents in our area, giving them more choice, opportunities and potentially saving time and money. Very early discussions have already commenced with stakeholders to encourage the establishment of a Bridgewater and Old Beach ferry service with the expansion of the existing services on the
Our Grants Program is also opening soon so if you have a project for a community organisation that meets the criteria, you can apply for a grant. Watch the Brighton Council Facebook page and website for when these open. Wishing everyone a safe and steady year ahead.
Brighton Mayor Leigh Gray
Emerging engineering New look for Brighton leader wins big Community News Brighton Council Manager Asset Services, Callum Pearce-Rasmussen, recently received the Emerging Leader Award at the Institute of Public Works Engineering Australasia (IPWEA) conference - Tasmania Division. This is a significant achievement and the Council wholeheartedly congratulates Callum. We’re lucky to have him as part of our team! Callum is highly active in the engineerAbove: Callum Pearce-Rasmus- ing community - he acts as a sen showing off his very special mentor for engineering students from UTAS and in 2021 award at the recent IPWEA he became the Vice-President conference.
COMMUNITY SNAPSHOT
of the IPWEA Tasmania Division. Callum has been a key figure in the Brighton Council team, leading a range of important engineering projects. Most recently he has contributed to the Brighton Regional Sports Pavilion redevelopment at Pontville - a $6 million function centre, change rooms, kiosk and public toilets - and the Bridgewater Parkland Stage 2 - a $1.7 million parklands including car parking, bbq area, public toilets, landscaping and numerous pieces of play equipment.
Got a cracking shot taken around Brighton? Email it to communitynews@brighton.tas.gov.au to be featured.
You may have noticed the Brighton Community News has had a facelift for the first bi-monthly edition of 2022. The new Brighton Community News is full of good news stories and showcases the people, businesses, community groups and sporting clubs that make our area great. We will continue to grow our event calendar with listings of what’s on in our local area. We will share bigger picture Council planning for the future, and updates on the initiatives and projects we’re working on. There’s even some fun activities and facts to keep your mind active! Readers are encouraged to contribute to the newspaper by
sharing stories, photographs and local tips via communitynews@ brighton.tas.gov.au. Our new editor Steph Williams has worked with us to develop a look and feel that’s easy and enjoyable to read. All the stories will also be on our Brighton Community News website and shared via our Brighton Council Facebook page. After growing up in Devonport Steph left Tasmania to study and work, and returned with her young family a few years ago to settle in Hobart. Steph is experienced in creating community publications and looks forward to hearing your feedback about the refreshed Brighton Community News.
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SUSIE BOWER LIBERAL CANDIDATE FOR LYONS Contact me with any ideas or concerns PO Box 199, LONGFORD TAS 7301 0456 656 065 Susie.Bower@tas.liberal.org.au SusieBowerLyons
Riverside Drive Walking Trail, Bridgewater Wetlands. Pic by Tom Sayers.
Authorised by T Bearman, Liberal Party of Australia, 185 Invermay Road, Invermay TAS 7248
5 Happy Day for Brand New Australians Brighton Community News / February/March 2022
On 26 January, Brighton welcomed two new Australian citizens at an official citizenship ceremony. Mayor Leigh Gray welcomed Man Wai Lau and Richa Karki and wished the two women the warmest of welcomes. “This is such an important pledge and we’re very proud to welcome you to the Brighton Municipality. We wish you a wonderful future as a citizen here in our local community,” said Mayor Gray. Having lived in Australia for the last nine years, Karki is happy to officially be an Australian. “Australia has always felt like home to me. Now I am officially an Australian citizen! A new journey has unfolded and I am thankful to everyone who helped me through this,” she said. Picture from L-R: Man Wai Lau, Leigh Gray, Richa Karki
Planning Team Celebrates Graduate Achievements Two team members from the Brighton Council’s Development Services (Planning) team recently made some significant professional achievements. Kelly Min and Andres Perez-Roca both graduated from the University of Tasmania with a Master of Planning at the end of last year.
important contributor to liveability. Andres currently works as a Planning Officer with the Council where he provides professional land use services advice on statutory planning to the community. He also volunteers for PIA, serving as a Member of the Tasmania Policy and Advocacy Subcommittee and the Tasmanian Young Planners. Congratulations to these very talented members of the planning team.
For Andres it has been a double celebration, being named the 2021 recipient of the Planning Institute of Australia (Tasmanian Division) Mike Shield Award. At the end of each year, the student graduating with the best overall academic performance who is anticipated to be resident in Tasmania in the year following the award, in honour of long-serving PIA member and local planner, Mike Shield. Andres is originally from Colombia. Prior to planning, his background is in Law and Business Administration. During his studies at the University of Tasmania, he co-founded and served as the first President of the UTAS Planning Society. The society provides students with a platform to explore and develop their shared interests in planning. His research thesis explored ideas around liveability in three suburbs in Tasmania, emphasising social capital as an
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Zoodoo has recently welcomed two new additions to their growing animal family. Abu, a three year old male, and Alvaro, a four year old female are Cotton-top Tamarins, small monkeys that are easily recognisable by the white mane above their head. They are endemic to Colombia in South America and are some of the world’s most endangered primates. Abu and Alvaro made their way safely to their new home in Tasmania as part of a conservation effort to protect Cotton-top Tamarins. With only 2000 breeding adults left in the wild, their greatest threat to survival is the loss of habitat due to deforestation, mining, illegal logging, and urban expansion. “We are working with other zoos around the world to ensure that Tamarins in human care are genetically managed for the best outcomes for the population,” says General Manager of Zoo Operations at Zoodoo, Nick Atchison. Zoodoo will financially support Project Tamarin (Proyecto Titi), a conservation program in Colombia that
conducts field research projects, restores forest habitat, and engages with local people living near Cotton-top Tamarin habitat. Since early 2020, when Donna Cuttriss took over the management of Zoodoo, the zoo has made some essential upgrades to the site. A workshop with business professionals, community leaders and animal experts was held to collaboratively re-imagine the future of the zoo. “It’s amazing to hear the comments from visitors that haven’t been to Zoodoo in a few years. At first they are surprised by some of the changes the zoo has undergone, but then they leave having had a genuinely meaningful wildlife experience while still enjoying some of the great Zoodoo activities they know and love,” says Zoodoo’s Marketing and Events Officer, Ellie Boxhall. “We are a guest funded animal park and extremely excited to welcome travelers from the mainland again, so we can continue to create more meaningful experiences for our community and improve the welfare of the animals in our care.”
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Brighton Community News / February/March 2022
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Work starts on NRM Strategy The Brighton Council in conjunction with the Derwent Catchment Project (DCP) is working on steps to improve Brighton’s natural resources in 2022. A Natural Resource Management (NRM) strategy will be created by the DCP to help manage and improve land, water and soil quality, as well as habitats for plants and animals. As a community organisation, DCP focuses on weed management, conservation projects,
river restoration, agricultural best practices and strategic planning. The main focus is in foreshore restoration through a weed management plan. In the first half of 2022, there will be two foreshore working bees and planting works. The Derwent Catchment Project will also advise and support awareness and education in the community alongside helping Brighton Council to develop our own management plan. This will include identifying the bad
Bikes, ferries and buses on the table for Brighton Brighton Council welcomes the Greater Hobart Transport vision in a bid to improve public and private transportation between south-central areas and the city. With as much as 70% of the growing Brighton population commuting to Hobart or
Glenorchy for work, transport options are critical. “A large proportion of people from Brighton, Sorell, Southern Midlands and the Derwent Valley commute into the metro area of Hobart for work, areas that include some of Greater Hobart’s highest growth suburbs. The proposals would greatly
weeds, and how to control and stop the spread. Throughout the process, the community will be consulted, with opportunity to share their thoughts on our natural resources and to build interest in the future management of them. Please contact Mel Fazackerley to get involved mel. fazackerley@derwentcatchment.org. To find out more about the Derwent Catchment Project visit www.derwentcatchment.org benefit these people, giving them more choice, opportunities and potentially save them time and money.” Mayor Leigh Gray said. The Greater Hobart Transport Vision currently includes an increase to bus scheduling, an upgrade to the cycle network and expanded ferry routes for Northern access to the city. “A protected cycleway all the way from Brighton into and throughout the city can easily be achieved in the coming few years, with not too many gaps left in the main route. As pointed out by Bob Clifford, an expanded ferry service could
have stops at Old Beach and Bridgewater or Gagebrook and could even extend to New Norfolk easily once the new Bridgewater Bridge is completed,” Mayor Gray said. Since the launch of the regional employment hub, Southcentral Workforce Network by Brighton and surrounding councils (Derwent Valley, Central Highlands and Southern Midlands), accessibility and cost of transport were identified as major constraints for residents to access education, training and employment. “Many in our community depend on bus services, but the cost, frequency
Face masks
are required indoors For everyone aged 12 and older (unless exempt) You must wear a face mask when indoors. This includes places such as the supermarket, inside restaurants, and indoor workplaces. You are not required to wear a mask inside a home — whether you live there or are visiting. Keep a mask with you in case you need to wear it unexpectedly. You may remove your mask when undertaking certain activities, such as physical exercise or to eat or drink. Some people with medical exemptions do not need to wear a mask. Reasons for not wearing a mask are not always obvious, so please be respectful of others.
Find out more at:
education.tas.gov.au/facemasks
and scheduling can be prohibitive,” Mayor Gray said. The Greater Hobart Transport vision has committed $870 million to upgrade transport infrastructure for both public and private transport options. “We commend the metro councils for their submission and will enthusiastically work with them and the State Government to bring as much as possible to fruition. Brighton wants to play its part in making the Hobart City Deal a transformative success over the coming years,” Mayor Gray said.
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Brighton Community News / February/March 2022
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Sustainability champions in schoolwide effort St Paul’s Primary School is kicking some big sustainability goals, highlighted during a recent visit from Brighton Council staff. They have environmental champions across the school - from the principal who is involved in organic waste recycling and teachers introducing new waste stream collection points to collect and recycle food waste, to students volunteering to conduct plastic recycling. During the visit, Grade Two and Six students participated enthusiastically in a range of activities from how to reduce energy bills through to wise energy use and waste reduction ideas around the school and home.
Ms Tashina Wolff’s Grade Two class were incredibly enthusiastic and enjoyed hearing frog calls as well as seeing pictures of the local sea eagles, Eastern barred bandicoots, spotted tail quolls, the masked owl, and skinks. To help young people get used to new ways of recycling waste and to undertake climate action, Brighton Council is collaborating with schools and developing educational resources they can incorporate into their learning. Brighton Council’s goal is a waste-wise, environment and climate change program for schools, and providing information on sustainability initia-
tives, including questions on the recently introduced Food Organics Garden Organics (FOGO) kerbside bin service and classroom material. For more information, please contact wastewise@brighton. tas.gov.au or 0447 833 507, environment@brighton.tas.gov. au or alison.johnson@brighton. tas.gov.au on 6268 7048 or for Brighton Council’s sustainability programs visit www.brighton.tas.gov.au A big thanks to the students and staff at St Paul’s Primary School for sharing their inivative and easy ideas on how to create a more sustainable future for years to come.
Ms Donna Wolff’s Grade Six class seemed particularly clued up on how wise waste and energy resource use reduces our impact on the environment by reducing harmful emissions that contribute to global warming. They also enjoyed running a micro hydro turbine to generate electricity.
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Brighton Community News / February/March 2022
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SES life membership awarded to Cr Geard
Congratulations to Councillor Peter Geard, OAM ESM JP FAIES who was recently recognised for his extensive work with the SES, receiving the SES Life Membership Award.
Currently, Peter is a unit manager and trainer but also held previous roles in a South Region SES training capacity and within the SES Volunteers Association.
Since joining the Brighton SES in 1976, Peter has been an integral member of the unit. This award will cement him as a SES Honorary Life Member upon resignation or retirement.
His recognition comes after years of attending local and statewide calls outs for flash floods, high winds, vehicle accidents, evidence and missing person searches, animal rescue and assisting in fires.
“I must mention the wonderful support not only from the SES family but my wife Jannene, who fully supports me and also gets involved with helping the SES unit and community,” said Peter. “I too am extremely proud of our two sons: Simon who is an ambulance intensive care paramedic and Andrew who is a career firefighter with Tasmania Fire Service. They are also both members of Brighton SES.”
Peter has attended the Natural Disaster College in Victoria and completed four deployments to help in Queensland with cyclones, floods and storms. He is also a director of the Australasian Institute of Emergency Service Tasmanian Division. What a feat, congratulations Peter on your significant achievement!
Keeping Happy Poultry
FEBRUARY
Jill Weaver, a life member of the Tasmanian Rare Breeds Poultry Club, has created a practical, useful guide with
valuable information for the everyday keeping of fowl and other poultry. Keeping Happy Poultry covers everything from hatching, housing, food and nutrition. The purpose of the Tasmanian Rare Breeds Poultry Club, which was founded in 2006, is to preserve and promote Australia’s rare breeds and varieties. Each year they host an annual poultry weekend (a show, followed by poultry sale), attend community events, and use their socia media pres-
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Do you have Scottish heritage or just enjoy a boogie in your kilt? The Richmond Highland Gathering is on with traditional dancing, pipe band displays and competitions. From 10am4pm at Richmond’s Village Green.
6
Clean Up Australia Day is on today! Get your friends, family or neighbours together and make a difference in your local community. Visit www.cleanup.org.au to sign up.
21 Bridgewater Library is
putting on a free movie and popcorn today. Head along at 1pm to see Made in Dagenham.
is Close 17 Today the Gap Day. Today is a reminder to actively close the health and life expectancy gap between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and non-Indigenous Australians.
ence and website teach people about these beautiful breeds. Craig Farrell MLC is a patron of the club. “Jill is a very experienced keeper of fowl and waterfowl and has compiled this book from her experiences over many years,” he shared. “The booklets are excellent value at $20 each, and all proceeds from the book go to the club.” Copies are available at Craig Farrell’s office at 60 High Street, New Norfolk or via www.tasrarepoultry.com.
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Are you keen to research your family history? You can join a six week course at the Bridgewater Library to build your research skills and confidence. Every Friday from 11 February to 18 March 10am - 12pm
Royal Ho12 The bart Regatta
is back! There’s a full program of events and entertainment for all, including a kids and families day today. Get all the info at www.royalhobartregatta.com
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Rock and Rhyme is on today at the Bridgewater Library from 10am - 10:30am, with singalong nursery rhymes and storytime.
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21 Bridgewater Library
MAKE A DAY OF IT...
is showing a film today, The Railway Man, at 1pm, with free popcorn on offer. it’s also Harmony Day.
Head to Clifton Beach SLSC today to watch (or participate) in the Hydrothon All Female Surf Sports Festival, Run over two days, females between 9-17 years will compete in a variety of competitions.
FEBRUARY
Valenrockers 13 Aus 14 It’s tine’s Day. Choirboys play The Longley International Hotel today from 2:45pm. Four decades of rocking!
27
Time to fish those running shoes from the cupboard for the Run the Bridge event today. You can run or walk 5km, run 10km or drag along the kiddos for a 1k option.
MARCH
Do you keep chickens in your backyard or want to know more about how it all works? Maybe you’ve considered keeping some geese, turkeys, ducks, or rare breeds such as Old English Pheasant Fowls? Now there is a useful book for people who want to keep healthy and happy poultry.
Birth18 Happy day Both-
well! It’s Bothwells 200th anniversary with The Bothwell Bi-Centenary Festival today. The pretty agricultural town is celebrating with stories, exhibitions and more.
Tell someone you love them!. It’s also Library Lovers day - check out the Bridgewater Library .
to Old 19 Head Beach Fore-
shore trail today to hear all about our salt marsh ecosystem. Meet at the car park at Jetty Road at Midday. Refreshments and tour to follow.
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Do you need some digital help? Cursing at your phone, need to set up your myGov or get your vax certificate? Head to the Bridgewater Library for their digital drop in session each Monday and Friday, from 2pm to 4pm.
Have some fun in the Derwent Valley today at the Hamilton Show, a traditional grassroots agricultural show.
Nation19 The al Penny
Kempton 20 The Festival is on
Farthing Championship is back! Kicking off from 10am - 4pm, find your tickets and information online at evandalevillagefair.com
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again with Barrel Rolling contests, Sheep Racing Championships and lamb cooking competitions. There’s plenty to do with the kids if stalls, rides and prizes are their kind of thing.
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Brighton Community News / February/March 2022
www.brightoncommunitynews.com.au
Bridgewater Jerry sculpture on the move! Pics: Scott Percey
Caramel Peanut Butter Biscuits
Your eyes are not deceiving you. The Bridgewater Jerry sculpture at Green Point was temporarily removed late last year by a team from Brighton Council and contractors. They carefully lifted and transported him to the Council depot, to start the process of receiving some much needed maintenance and restoration work. Jerry was created by sculptor Tony Woodward, who has sadly now passed away. Tony was well known for his sense of humour and funny, joyful sculptures that make people laugh. Jerry was created from mosaic tiles, which over time, can deteriorate. Jerry will undergo some repairs and restoration to give him a new lease on life before being relocated. Members of the Cafe Connections community group are driving the campaign to refresh Jerry and the Brighton Council look forward to working with Tony’s sister Margaret to restore Jerry to his former glory. A new location is yet to be decided, but we look forward to Jerry enjoying a prominent position in Bridgewater.
These ugly little biscuits are simple and delicious. They’re easy to make with three simple ingredients and can be adapted to be gluten free. And the mixture is just as good raw as it is cooked - the sign of a great biscuit!
TAKE A BREAK
ACROSS 1 Imagine guilty (7) 5 Plant fluid (3) 7 Doubly (5) 8 Fine porcelain (5) 9 Pace (4) 10 Even (5) 13 Fastener (5) 15 Adolescent skin problem (4)
19 School unit (5) 20 Haggles (5) 21 Wager (3) 22 Dark (7) DOWN 1 A planet (6) 2 Woman's garment (5) 3 Views (4) 4 Proof of payment (6)
5 Move easily (5) 6 Beseech (4) 11 Against (6) 12 Enumeration of inhabitants (6) 14 Skill (5) 16 Irritate (5) 17 Fink (4) 18 Paradise (4)
1 can condensed milk 2 heaped tablespoons of peanut butter (crunchy or smooth) 5 cups Cornflakes (can also use gluten free Cornflakes) Empty the condensed milk into a large bowl and mix in the peanut butter until it’s smooth. Add the
Cornflakes and mix until they are all coated. Be gentle but give it a good mix and make sure they’re all coated. Spoon large clumps (a generous tablespoon each) onto a baking tray lined with paper or a silicone baking sheet. Cook in a moderate oven (180 degrees Celsius) for about 15 mins or until golden brown. Keep your eyes on them as they can burn quickly. Carefully use a spatula to transfer them to a wire rack once they leave the oven, they will still be malleable. As they cool, they will harden up. Store in an airtight container for up to a week.
WORDS TO FIND: acre, agriculture, barn, cattle, chicken, cow, crops, chores, dairy, dog, eggs, ewe, goat, hen, hogs, manor, moo, orchard, oink, pig sty, plough, ram, ranch, rooster, tractor, vege Head to page 11 for the crossword and wordsearch answers
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Brighton Community News / February/March 2022
www.brightoncommunitynews.com.au
people, and help local businesses better connect with employment services,” DeArne shared. “Our services are available to anyone based in the SWN council areas, this includes (but not necessarily limited to), Jobseekers, employers, training providers and community members.”
Since starting in September 2020, SWN has assisted: •
• Southcentral Workforce Network (SWN) is a free service connecting workplaces and those who need work with each other. You can get help right here in Brighton, as well as the Central Highlands, Derwent Valley and Southern Midlands council areas. The Tasmanian Community Fund and the State Government have funded the project for residents, including the running of a Jobs Hub in
Pontville which also acts as a meeting space for a variety of community groups - currently the Brighton Senior Citizens Club, The Lions Club of Brighton Inc and the Brighton Speak Easy Group are using the building on a fortnightly basis. DeArne Lane is the Jobs Hub Supervisor at SWN in Pontville. “Our aim is to increase the workforce participation of local
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160 jobseekers to find employment, the delivery of four training programs, 19 traineeships/apprenticeships initiated and 580 business meetings held. 60 pre-employment presentations made to job seeker groups and students within the region. The distribution of over 350 job seekers’ resumes to businesses within the region.
Share a quote on love from your favourite book or poem, or perhaps borrow an old favourite and reminisce on what you loved about it with a loved one.
In partnership with the Derwent Estuary Program and University of Tasmania, Brighton Council will host a free Tidal Treasures community event. Guest speaker, Dr Vishnu Prahalad from the University of Tasmania, will chat about why our saltmarshes are so important in our environment and how we can protect them and the inhabitants. Dr Prahalad will also discuss why he wants saltmarsh environments to be appreciated as much as Tasmania’s forests and beaches and lead a saltmarsh tour where Mayor Gray will unveil new and informative signage highlighting the importance of the Old Beach Saltmarsh. Light refreshments will be provided. When: Saturday 19 February 12pm-2pm Where: Old Beach Foreshore Trail (meeting point car park at Jetty Road)
For more information about current vacancies or to check out the training available, head to www.swntas.org or their Facebook page by searching ‘Southcentral Workforce Network’.
Love your local library Libraries are more than just a home for books. They can be places to seek adventure, research a curiosity or access resources you might not have at home. On Library Lovers Day this year, celebrate all the things that you love about the Bridgewater Library.
Save the Date: Tidal Treasures Saltmarsh Tour + Discussion
You can help pass on a love of libraries to the little ones with heaps of kids activities too. Everyday, your local Bridgewater Library is also home to: • Free wifi • Public computers • Scanners, printers and laminators • Digital support like setting up MyGov and accessing vaccination certificates.
DRIVER MENTORS
WANTED
Helping people from the Brighton Municipality gain their Drivers Licence TOP GEAR matches learner drivers with volunteer mentors to accrue the required 50 driving hours needed to obtain a drivers licence. All driving is undertaken in the Top Gear car, with volunteers being provided with a range of training to equip them to become mentors.
WHY NOT DO YOUR CENTRELINK VOLUNTEER HOURS WITH TOP GEAR Top Gear, Bridgewater Community Centre 6263 4303 topgear@jrsinc.org.au 6 Bowden Drive, Bridgewater PO Box 120, Bridgewater
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Brighton Community News / February/March 2022
www.brightoncommunitynews.com.au
Maintaining stormwater swale drains: what you need to know Brighton has a mix of both suburban and rural residential areas, but is surrounded by countryside. When it comes to land management during times of higher-than-average rainfall like we’ve seen recently, stormwater swale drain maintenance becomes very important for those in rural areas with less infrastructure than their suburban counterparts.
What is a swale? Swales are surface drains designed to carry excess water to catchments and rivers. They might look like a low open ditch or an enclosed concrete gutter. They have a very slight fall which allows water to drain away and along to natural waterways.
an area would naturally react. These catchments may be lined with grass or rock, sealed or unfinished and will guide excess water off the property, and into either the Derwent or Jordan Rivers.
Y. JOBS. HEALTH. COMMUNIT
Rebecca
White mp
Labor Member for Lyons
rebecca.white@parliament.tas.gov.au 6212 2225
Authorised by REBECCA WHITE, 33 COLE ST, SORELL
Wordsearch answer: HARD WORK
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What do I need to do? Over time with grass growth, erosion, and litter, these drains will alter in shape and size. Some drains are located on private property, sometimes within a registered easement or along a boundary, so it is important to know their function and how you can help them do their job. If you have a swale on your property, or nearby: •
How do swales help? To avoid flooding, stormwater swales help to mimic the natural fall of the land. Sometimes things like houses, fences and dams may have changed how
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• • •
Walk around and familiarise yourself with your property and its characteristics (driveways, frontages, fall of land). Look at where water pools in heavy rains. Remove any litter and larger objects from drains. Resist installing fencing or planting trees that may
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restrict flow. Mow or ‘whipper snip’ these grass drains, the entry to culverts and remove the grass from the trimmed area. Regularly remove any silt build-up with a spade. A little done over time adds up when it pours down. Talk to your neighbour about what you can do together.
Swale drains on private property are the responsibility of the property owner to maintain; however Brighton Council will work with property owners to maintain drains, your crossover and any road neighbouring drains. Technical assistance is available from the Brighton Council Asset Services Unit as over the counter advice, via an email to admin@brighton.tas. gov.au or by phone. Picture, top: A typical rock lined road edge swale drain. Bottom: A typical swale and culvert junction requiring a cleanout.
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Brighton Community News / February/March 2022
www.brightoncommunitynews.com.au
DOSA Soccer Club embarks on a new sporting chapter at Weily Park
The DOSA Soccer Club (Dominic Old Scholars Association) was formed in 1989 after a group of friends from Dominic College had been playing in the Sunday afternoon ‘churches’ competition and doing well. They decided to field a team in the 11-a-side league with Soccer Tasmania. In their first season, the team won Division 4 and was promoted to Division 3. The following season, the club fielded teams in both Divisions 3 and 4, winning both, and being promoted again - this time to Divisions 2 and 3. Two years later the club won Division 2 and was promoted to Division 1. The club competed at this level throughout the 90s, adding a third men’s team and a women’s team. In 2000 the men’s team was promoted to the Premier League and the women’s team won the Division 1 league. At the end of 2003 the club was relegated from Premier League back to Division 1, winning
the Division 1 Knockout Cup in extra time in an exciting final against Hobart United. In 2011 the club struck financial difficulties and was only able to sustain one team in the men’s social league. Their home ground was originally at Bell Street in New Town and training at Guilford Young College gym, before moving to Seymour Street in Brighton. By 2018 the club had erased all debts and worked themselves into a strong financial position. With recruitment from Guilford Young College, a second men’s team was added and the club moved to a larger ground and facilities at Weily Park. It’s here that DOSA have been able to finally establish a “home” at which they can train and play. The facilities were recently upgraded at Weily Park, and the statistics have shown that the club achieves better results at Weily Park than at ‘away’ games. The club has really made Weily Park their home. The club currently enjoys a membership base of around 60,
which includes players, coaches and committee members. Players don’t have to be a current or past Dominic College student, and the fees are among the cheapest of any southern club. The club’s plan has always been to build back up to multiple men’s, women’s and junior teams. This process hasn’t been rushed in order to remain financially viable. For this reason, it has taken until now to establish a women’s team. It has also taken some time to attract a quality coach for the women’s team of the calibre of Cassie Rosenzweig. It was recognised that for the first season of the women’s team, a knowledgeable, experienced and patient coach would be essential to ensure players enjoyed their season enough to return the following year. A lot of work has also gone into the development of junior teams which we’re confident will eventuate in 2023.
equal game time, regardless of ability, as long as they conduct themselves in a respectful way. The club provides a relaxed atmosphere, recognising that people have important priorities in their lives outside of soccer. The DOSA Soccer Club currently has three men’s social teams
and one women’s team but they hope to expand in the coming seasons to include a junior team from season 2023. Pre-season training sessions are currently held at Dominic College (Tolosa St) on Thursday evenings from 6pm but will be moving back to Weily Park from 10 February. Games are usually played on Sunday.
Many younger players are attracted to the club’s egalitarian culture. All players are given
It is important to know that our schools are safe Give your child the best start to the new school year and make every day of learning count by attending school regularly. COVID-19 safety measures are in place across all schools, in line with Public Health advice, including: • Frequent cleaning and increased hygiene practices • Increased ventilation in classrooms with open windows and use of air purifiers • Use of outdoor learning areas • Vaccination of all Department of Education staff, volunteers and contractors • Wearing face masks indoors by all staff and high school students (masks will be provided to students as needed). The combined effect of these measures will ensure a safe learning environment.
The new school year and
COVID-19.
The best way to protect your child from COVID-19 is to get them vaccinated. Children aged 5 to 11 years are now able to get the COVID-19 vaccine, with dedicated children’s clinics operating statewide.
Find out more at:
education.tas.gov.au/COVID-19