Brighton Community News June/July 2024

Congratulations to Bridgewater’s National Keep Australia Beautiful Award Winners

To say Council were absolutely thrilled to bring home three awards for the Bridgewater community entry in the National Keep Australia Beautiful (KAB) Awards would be an understatement.

In November last year Bridgewater won the Keep Australia Beautiful – Tasmanian State award for most sustainable community. This was testament to the immense strength and resilience of our Bridgewater community, community groups and dedicated volunteers.

As the winner of the State awards, Council entered the National Awards. In May 2024 members of Brighton Council and the community travelled to Gascoyne Junction in Western Australia to attend the awards ceremony.

The finalists from each of the States travelled from far and wide to meet each other, learn about each other’s projects and communities and enjoy a celebration of our achievements. The other national finalists included Beechworth in Victoria, Bathurst in New South Wales, Pengilly in Western Australia

and Ntaria (Hermannsburg) in the Northern Territory.

As the overall winners in 2023, Gascoyne Junction were the hosts of the 2024 awards. They were incredibly generous and gracious hosts to the 50+ people who arrived in this remote little town for the weekend. ‘The Junction’ normally only has a population of just over 70 people in the township itself. It was a big weekend for everyone in town.

Brighton Council congratulates Beechworth in North East Victoria on being the overall National Award winner for 2024.

Each of the local winners were officially acknowledged and presented with their National KAB awards and certificates at Brighton Council’s Community Volunteer Awards on 23 May at the Civic Centre in Bridgewater.

Brighton Council would like to specifically acknowledge and thank all those who directly contributed to these awards at both a state and national level: Brighton Community Food Hub, Jordan River Service Inc., Bridgewater Community House, Brighton

Youth Action Group, Bridgewater Landcare Group and Derwent Catchment Project, Café Connections, Centacare Evolve Housing, Cultural Craft Group, Kutalayna Collective, Material Institute, Australian Red Cross – Tasmania and Joselle Griffin, and Under One Rainbow.

The effort these groups and individuals put into making the Bridgewater submission such a solid entry is indicative of the community spirit that surrounds us. What they all do everyday epitomises hope, positivity and kindness in a desire to make change and these awards are a tribute to that.

Bridgewater won awards for three of the National Award categories:

Waste Prevention & Reduction Award – Winner – Bin to Win (Centacare Evolve Housing and Brighton Council)

The annual Bin to Win event is delivered in partnership between Centacare Evolve Housing and Brighton Council, and is championed by Council’s Waste Education Officer Gwen Harper from Just Waste Consulting. This award focuses on minimising waste going into landfill and assists in creating a circular economy. Bin to Win demonstrates a commitment to waste education and accessibility. Bin to Win goes beyond just an event where people can clear their rubbish. This event offers opportunities for local people to have interactive educational experiences – learning WHY we should sort our waste, not just how. Thanks to community participation over 80 carloads of waste, including 200+ tyres, 50+ white goods, and 40+ mattresses at the 2023 Bin to Win event were removed.

Dame Phyllis Frost Award – Winner – Joselle Griffin (Australian Red Cross Tasmania)

The National Tidy Town’s ‘Dame Phyllis Frost’ category is awarded to a local hero who stands out in the community for taking steps towards a more sustainable future. Joselle said, “I feel intensely grateful and honoured to have received this award.”

Anyone who knows Joselle, knows she personi-

fies the spirit of community empowerment. She champions the philosophy of Asset Based Community Development, nurturing local initiatives such as the Brighton Community Food Hub. Joselle emphasises the importance of community-led solutions, trusting in the profound impact of localised action. From her formative years at Bridgewater High School to her pivotal role in crisis management and community advancement, Joselle’s path highlights her dedication to equality and community development. Her efforts symbolise the belief that sustainable change comes from within communities themselves, positioning her as a catalyst for constructive change within Bridgewater and its neighbouring areas.

Young Legends Award – Highly Commended –Brighton Youth Action Group (Brighton Council) Since 2023, BYAG has been a voice for young people aged 12-25 years, empowering them to shape their future. Their initiative, the Brighton Big Bangin Youth Night, brought over 200 young members together for a rap concert and a crucial ‘Talk’ session with local authorities and the BYAG team. This dynamic group isn’t just about events; they’re driving change. From tackling transport poverty to mental health, they’re paving the way for a brighter future.

Published by the Brighton Council.

It is distributed to households and businesses throughout the municipality.

Circulation: In excess of 9,000.

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

2024 edition deadlines: August/September edition

Stories and contributions: Friday 28

June

Advertising material: Friday 12 July

BRIGHTON COUNCIL

Brighton Council Meetings

Meetings held at Council Offices, 1 Tivoli Rd, Old Beach

Ordinary Council

18 June 2024 and 16 July 2024

Meeting commences at 5:30pm

Planning Authority

4 June and 2 July 2024

Meeting commences at 5:30pm

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

General Enquiries

Email Website

6268 7000 admin@brighton.tas.gov.au www.brighton.tas.gov.au

General Manager

James Dryburgh

Community Development

Officer

6268 7000

6268 7054

Environmental & Development Services

General Enquiries

Building Services

Health Services

Planning Services

Animal Control

Physical Services

Council Depot

Manager Asset Services

Corporate Services

Rates Enquiries

Accounts Enquiries

Cashier

After hours emergency

Welcome Milly Burgess to Brighton Council

Hello Brighton community, my name is Milly, and I am the new Sustainability and Climate Project Officer at Brighton Council.

Ever since I was a kid, I have loved nature and the environment, but it wasn’t until I was older that I realised I wanted a career working to protect it.

I have completed a Master of Environment from the University of Melbourne, and prior to that a Bachelor of Psychology. I love using the knowledge and skills I have gained from both degrees to think about solutions to complex problems, like climate change.

During my studies, I had the privilege of working with a not-forprofit organisation, focusing on

policy, advocacy, and communications related to climate change and health. More recently, I’ve been involved in assisting communities across Greater Hobart to prepare for and build resilience to bushfires.

Now, stepping into this role at Brighton Council, I’m filled with excitement to lead our climate and sustainability initiatives. I am eager to connect with fellow climate champions in Brighton and to support households, businesses, and the council to collectively amplify our efforts in combating climate change.

I look forward to our shared journey toward a more resilient and sustainable future for Brighton.

YOUR COUNCIL

LEIGH GRAY (Mayor)

Brighton 7030 Tel: 6268 0704 / 0488 390 115 cr.gray@brighton.tas.gov.au

6268 7078

6268 7016

6268 7029

6268 7041

6268 7000

6268 7000

6268 7000

6268 7025

6268 7001

6268 7000

6268 7000

All correspondence should be addressed to the General Manager, Brighton Council, 1 Tivoli Road, Old Beach 7017.

If you or someone you know needs support or someone to talk to, you can reach out to:

Lifeline Beyond Blue Kids Help Line Men’s Help Line

13 11 14 (24 hours/7 days)

1300 22 4636 (24 hours/7days)

1800 55 1800 (24 hours/7 days)

1300 78 99 78 (24 hours/7 days)

13Yarn - Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander crisis support Q Life - LGBTIQA+ support Mental Health Services

BARBARA CURRAN (Deputy Mayor) Brighton 7030 Tel: 0417 612 868 cr.curran@brighton.tas.gov.au

AARON DE LA TORRE

Brighton 7030 Tel: 0427 813 821 cr.delatorre@brighton.tas.gov.au

PETER GEARD

Brighton 7030 Tel: 0418 515 649 cr.geard@brighton.tas.gov.au

GREG IRONS

Brighton 7030 Tel: 0424 333 360 cr.irons@brighton.tas.gov.au

JOHN MCMASTER

Bridgewater 7030 Tel: 0408 543 772 cr.mcmaster@brighton.tas.gov.au

TENNILLE MURTAGH

Bridgewater 7030 Tel: 0479 053 814 cr.murtagh@brighton.tas.gov.au

PHILIP OWEN Old Beach 7017 Tel: 6249 8575 / 0419 333 252 cr.owen@brighton.tas.gov.au

MICHAEL WHELAN

Brighton 7030 Tel: 0409 416 353 cr.whelan@brighton.tas.gov.au

Immunisation Clinics 2024

Brighton Council provides FREE monthly immunisation clinics at the Brighton Council Offices, 1 Tivoli Road, Old Beach from 2–3pm on these dates:

Tuesday 4 June

Tuesday 2 July

13 92 76 (24 hours/7 days)

1800 184 527 (3pm-12am 7days) 1800 332 388 (24 hours/7 days)

Tuesday 6 August

Tuesday 3 September

Tuesday 1 October

The Brighton Industrial Estate is now the Brighton Hub

The Brighton Council has begun implementing the Brighton Industrial Estate Brand & Place Strategy with the completion of the Brighton Hub landmark entrance sign, and the construction of a new truck stop and town square on the corner of Strong Street and Glenstone Road commencing soon.

In 2020, Brighton Council released the Strategy with the aim to transition the Brighton Industrial Estate to be known as the Brighton Hub. This will establish it as a place with a strong identity, and one where people want to invest, work and visit.

Key recommendations included improving the appearance and identity of the estate via

elevating the experience of entering the area, better wayfinding signage, and creating a place where workers and visitors could socialise, rest and visit pop-up services and events, including visits from food vans.

Works on the landmark entrance sign project on the Midland Highway have recently been completed. The sign stands at 10m tall and has lettering that’s lit up. The colours, design and fonts are taken from the Brighton Hub Branding Guidelines; these colours will be used in messaging throughout the Hub as part of the rebranding process.

The Brighton Council recently engaged a landscape architect

to design a town square park in the estate which includes an upgrade to the existing truck stop on the corner of the Glenstone Road and Strong Street. The project has included consultation with nearby businesses and has received a strong level of interest. The final design endorsed by the Council includes a public toilet, seating, car parking and areas for food vans to visit.

The Federal Government recently awarded the Brighton Council $360,000 funding to construct the project under the Heavy Vehicle Rest Area Initiative program. The program looks to improve existing rest areas or construct new ones for truck drivers, to improve safety.

Mayor Leigh Gray, reiterated Council’s commitment to improving the Brighton Hub and to improving safety for truck drivers. “The new rest area will provide a pleasant and functional space for our hard-working truck drivers and other workers and visitors to the Brighton Hub to relax.

The investment in the rest area demonstrates Brighton Council’s ongoing commitment to position the Brighton Hub as an attractive prospect for future investors, employers and employees and to support growth,” Mayor Leigh Gray said.

The tender process on the truck stop construction is now underway and is expected to be completed by the end of 2024. The Brighton Council has also begun scoping other projects from the strategy, including improved footpaths, the creation of a business group and the refacing of an existing ‘retro’ style sign within the Brighton Hub.

Simmons Wolfhagen Lawyers Wills & Estate Planning team will ensure your affairs are secure and your wishes for your family and loved ones are legally protected in case the unexpected happens. Make time for a Will.

Need expert legal advice? Contact Simmons Wolfhagen first.

03 6226 1200 inf@simwolf.com.au simwolf.com.au/wills

Weeding success and an orchid invasion alert

A recent working bee at the Jordan River Nature Reserve was a blooming success, with volunteers banding together to tackle plants like gorse, briar rose, and blackberry. It was a case of ‘many hands make light work’, and the reserve is looking a lot less prickly thanks to their efforts. But amidst the greenery, there lurked an unexpected intruder: the Disa bracteate, an invasive, introduced orchid. Spotted

by the sharp eyes of botanist Fiona Walsh, this nasty orchid poses a real potential problem to lowland native grassland communities. In response, The Derwent Catchment Project and Parks and Wildlife Service are taking steps to evict this floral enemy and develop a plan to keep it at bay. If you think you’ve spotted this orchid, report any sightings to mel.fazackerley@derwentcatchment.org.

Hobart | Kingston | Launceston | Smithton

In May, the new State Cabinet held its meeting in the Brighton Municipality and were able to utilise and enjoy our facilities at the Brighton Regional Sports Pavilion in Pontville to facilitate this. The visit gave Council the opportunity to discuss a range of issues and opportunities, delve into our shared goals and build critical relationships between Council and the State Government.

As Mayor, I was able to provide a snapshot of Brighton today, where Council is at and high-

New State Cabinet meets in Brighton

light a few key challenges and opportunities, ones that we believe are best tackled by collaboration between two, or even three, tiers of government.

More specifically, the meeting allowed me the opportunity to emphasise and reiterate the following:

Brighton is booming! You can see it all around the municipality. Critically, more than ever in the past, this boom is a healthy mix - not just housing. It’s now industrial, commercial, government and both public and private residential growth.

There is a misconception that high growth means a council is flush with money. In actual fact, it is a huge financial challenge. High growth areas need huge investment in a wide range of infrastructure to “feed” this growth, to react to changes and to respond to the higher expectations of more densely urbanised communities.

The best way to ensure growth is a good thing for communities, is for the three tiers of government to all play their part and to collaborate where possible.

At Brighton, we pride ourselves

Reflection: Paying respect

to those who have served

The ANZAC Commemorative Service at Remembrance Park in Brighton was held at 11am on ANZAC Day. Brighton Council thanks all those in attendance, and gives special thanks to: 65

Army Cadet Unit - Bridgewater, Brighton Primary School, Old Beach Scout Group, Mr Graeme Curran, Geard 4 Light & Sound, Reverend Rod Curtain, and Rotary Club of Brighton.

on building good relationships and partnering with others to increase our impact. We think there are great opportunities to work together more with the State Government. There are so many opportunities to create fantastic outcomes in our region.

Another thing we pride ourselves on is thinking long-term. We all know that some actions both state and local government make, will take years to start showing benefits – but these are often the actions that have the biggest benefits. We believe there are wonderful opportunities to make regionally significant long-term impacts across: Housing, Industrial and Economic Growth, Growth Planning, and Community Wellbeing by working more collaboratively.

In the next five years Council will have achieved:

• Construction of $5 million worth of major park upgrades across the municipality.

• Over $7 million on the Brighton Regional Sport Pavilion and sporting precinct.

• Approx $5 million this year in Brighton across Seymour Street, Brighton Town Square and the Brighton High School precinct.

• Completion of $6 million GP clinic and additional health precinct leases.

• Close to $1 million in place-making for Brighton Hub (formerly Brighton Industrial Estate).

• Development of a new ‘regional’ waste transfer station.

Some time this year, Brighton is predicted to overtake Burnie’s population. We have hit 20,000 people. We are a significant player in Tasmania now, including playing some important regional functions, such as in affordable housing and industry and logistics.

Council’s achievements and successes in the last five years have included:

• Climate work (including modelling coastal hazards/ inundation and bushfire mitigation work).

• Establishing a dedicated community development function and focussing on supporting and empowering young people.

• Long-term planning (land use, social infrastructure, transport networks etc).

• Planning for strategic property use - commercial,

health, residential and social benefit.

• Increasing road and pedestrian spend year on year.

• Delivering political stability, leadership and collaboration.

We not only want to be successful for our local community, but embrace our roles as both a regional hub and as an important part of Greater Hobart.

Finally, a huge congratulations to our community leaders and organisations who won awards for Bridgewater at the National Keep Australia Beautiful awards in Western Australia in May. Congratulations to Centacare Evolve Housing for Bin to Win, Joselle Griffin for winning the prestigious Dame Phyllis Frost Award and our Brighton Youth Action Group (BYAG) for being highly commended for the Brighton Big Bangin’ Youth Night.

These awards are a tribute to the strength of our communities and I have no doubt that everyone will feel very proud of these awards at a time when our troubled world means we need every little bit of hope we can get for the future.

Brighton Mayor Leigh Gray

Food Services in Brighton

Bridgewater Community House - 6 Bowden Drive, Bridgewater. Ph: (03) 6263 4303

Community Food

Assistance - Monday and Friday 9.30am–12pm

Loui’s Food Van - Monday evening 7.25pm–7.45pm

Emergency Food

Assistance HampersTuesday 9am-3.30pm

Community LunchWednesday 12pm-1pm

Community Food

Assistance - Wednesday 1pm-3pm

Brighton Community Food Hub - Now permanently located at 86 Jetty Road, Old Beach.

Open weekly as follows: Tuesday 10am-4pm Wednesday 4pm-7pm Thursday 10am-4pm

Please follow Brighton Community Food Hub on Facebook for latest news and special offers.

Uniting - Ph: (03) 6234 1296 - Emergency Food Relief Services – Thursday and Friday 9.30am-12.30pm

Gagebrook

Community House - 191 Lamprill Circle, Herdsmans Cove. Ph: (03) 6263 6097

Loui’s Food Van - Monday evening 7pm-7.20pm

Waterbridge Food Co-op/ Pantry - Monday to Friday 10am-2pm (delivery service available)

Vinnies Dining with Friends - Brighton Civic Centre, Greenpoint Road, Bridgewater

Dining with Friends provides a free 3-course meal to all in the community who would like to attend on 1st Wednesday of the month at 5.30pm.

Brighton Meals on Wheels - For more information call 1800 696 325

Bridgewater Pump Track open for wheels

As a part of Youth Week celebrations in April, curated by the Brighton Youth Action Group (BYAG), the Bridgewater Pump Track on the Bridgewater foreshore was officially opened by Mr Brian Mitchell MP, Federal Member for Lyons. Designed to appeal to all ages, the

Bridgewater Pump Track caters to a variety of wheeled activities, including bikes, skateboards, roller skates, and scooters. The track’s addition to the area’s recreational offerings will help transform the Bridgewater Foreshore into a vibrant community hub.

What is the Child and Youth Safe Framework?

Tasmania’s Child and Youth Safe Organisations Framework (the Framework) is a law to keep children safe in organisations. “The Framework is about putting children and young people first,” shared a victim-survivor of child sexual abuse in a Tasmanian institution. The Framework can be likened to workplace health and safety, in that it represents ongoing best-practice as opposed to a temporary set of activities.

The Framework creates the Child and Youth Safe Standards, the Reportable Conduct Scheme, information sharing provisions, and establishes the Independent Regulator.

The Child and Youth Safe Standards:

• 10 things organisations must do to respect and uphold children and young people’s rights.

• Includes a Universal

Principle for Aboriginal Cultural Safety.

• Creates accountability in preventing harm to children and young people.

The Reportable Conduct Scheme:

• Requires specific organisations to report concerns about an adult worker’s behaviour towards children and young people to the Independent Regulator.

• Requires these organisations to undertake investigations of concerns about an adult worker’s behaviour.

• Ensures organisations respond to harm to children and young people in a timely and appropriate manner.

The Independent Regulator:

• Is independent from the Tasmanian Government and reports to parliament, not a department. The Independent Regulator is Louise Coe.

• Oversees a wide range of Tasmanian organisations that engage with children and young people.

• Assists organisations to comply with the Child and Youth Safe Standards including the Universal Principle and monitors ongoing compliance.

• Builds the capability of organisations to prevent,

New mums group for primary school-aged kids’ parents

A new fortnightly mums group is coming to Bridgewater in June. This free gathering promises a nurturing environment for mothers and other caregivers to share experiences, gain valuable parenting insights, and, most importantly, prioritise self-care.

The group is scheduled for Tuesday mornings every second week during school

terms, starting 4 June, from 10:30am-2:30pm, at the Uniting Community Room on 26/28 Green Point Road, Bridgewater.

Childcare services will be provided for those with younger children. Morning tea will also be provided. For more information and to secure your spot, contact Nicki at 0466 946 979.

Bridge moving along

Construction on the new Bridgewater Bridge continues to move along. In April, the first of the concrete deck segments of the new bridge were put into place, each weighing between 50 and 90 tonnes. As a result, motorists are asked to remain aware of oversized trucks moving in the areawhich are carrying these concrete segments - from Bridgewater to Granton via the East Derwent Highway and Brooker Highway over coming months as construction continues.

identify, and respond to harm to children and young people.

• Ensures organisations report and undertake investigations correctly in line with the Reportable Conduct Scheme.

• Is established and given powers under the Child and Youth Safe Organisations Act 2023

• Has significant enforcement powers to ensure compliance.

• Can share information in the interests of protecting children and young people.

• Will collect and report on trends in relation to child and youth safe organisations.

Information sharing provisions are specific rules written into the law that mean leaders of organisations covered by the Framework are permitted to share personal information in certain circumstances. The Framework covers many types of organisations that engage with children and young people. If your organisation engages with children and young people, it could be legally required to comply with the Child and Youth Safe Organisations Framework. To find out more or to request a meeting or information session for your community group or sports club visit www. oir.tas.gov.au/organisations.

To minimise disruption and to keep people safe, the move-

ments will take place during the day, outside of peak travel times. While no major road closures are expected, motorists are asked to slow down if they see a Transport Inspector or pilot vehicle and obey all directions given. Some minor interruptions to traffic may occur. These will include short traffic stops as the heavy trucks travel over a series of bridges, including the Jordan River Bridge.

In addition to this progress, more pylons are being set, and moulds made in Latrobe are being used.

Community Creators teaching young people about community

Community Creators is an initiative aimed at teaching young people the importance of community. The first round of their pilot program was held at Jordan River Learning Federation Senior School in Term One, designed and facilitated by Brighton Council.

A group of mentors from Council, the school and community held six sessions with a dedicated group of young people. They learnt about overlooked opportunities in the community and recognised the talents of young people. Together, the students and mentors explored the concept of community, how to actively participate in it, and what it means to be a community leader.

The young creators identified several important areas to focus on:

• Keeping the community safe

• Looking at ways of targeting and supporting students who have experienced bullying

• Helping teachers understand students with neuro diversity

• Looking at ways to keep the

community beautiful and cared for

• Helping local wildlife and animals

• Having safe activities for young people to do.

JRLFSS student Jazmine said, “Having the chance to join the community creator program at school has opened my eyes so much. I went from thinking that I couldn’t do much as a kid

in my community to knowing that I can do anything I have passion for. It helped me learn that we have the resources, and we have adults that can help us work up to our goals for the community and even opened up opportunities I didn’t know I had.”

The students created a clear plan for moving forward and taking action on the ideas they found significant. This plan is guiding their efforts as they reconvene for the second part of the trial in Term Two.

Bridgewater Jerry photography competition now open

The annual Café Connections

Bridgewater Jerry Photo Competition has opened to coincide with the cooler months and peak asthma season.

Asthma Australia is sponsoring the event once again. Everyone is encouraged to enter their favorite photo of the Bridgewater Jerry via the Café Connections Facebook page. Café Connections Coordinator Moira Davidson said the Bridgewater Jerry

photography competition is about celebrating the community and the weather phenomenon. “It is our goal to show that there is beauty to be found in our community that should make us all proud. The competition is about celebrating one of our most iconic assets.”

Asthma Australia said the competition is a way of celebrating the community and also a unique opportunity for raising

Drumming up a storm

Have you heard drumming in the air? You may have noticed Brighton Council’s Youth Worker, John Flack, has been drumming using djembe drums outside the Brighton Civic Centre in Bridgewater. You’ll find John there on Wednesday afternoons from 3pm onwards (weather permitting) and anyone can join in.

awareness about getting asthma ready for winter. “When Jerry is here, asthma season is near,” says Asthma Australia Tasmanian Coordinator Jess Tyler. “The Jerry is an iconic piece of Hobart’s landscape, and it’s a visual cue that the weather needed to make Jerry is also the same weather that causes the worst respiratory issues for many in the community.”

What better reminder to get asthma-ready for the winter season than a big rolling fog bank, bringing with it the cold weather? “When you see the Jerry, it’s the time to get an asthma action plan ready with your health professional, review your medication and make sure your spacer is at the ready,” Jess said.

Café Connections meets on the fourth Tuesday of the month at Bean to Brew in the Civic Centre, and it’s no ordinary café. “It’s a place for community members to come together and have intentional conversations about making a more positive and connected space to live. Everyone is welcome to come along and have a cuppa and chat,” Moira said.

The competition opened on World Asthma Day on 7 May and closes in August. Winners will be announced during Asthma Week in September.

This location creates an opportunity for students leaving the Jordan River Learning Federation Senior School to join in and create their own rhythms on the drums. It’s a great way to engage with and entertain students after school. John is also at Material Institute’s Bond Place in Gagebrook on Thursday

afternoons from 2pm onwards where families often join him on the drums for a bit of fun and chit chat too.

John uses drumming as a way of engaging young people in a form of music. Drumming can help build healthy relationships with others by combining musical expression with basic Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). It has been shown to improve emotional control, relationships and increase self-esteem.

If you see John out and about with his drums feel free to join in or just say g’day. Who knew that the simple act of beating a drum could be so beneficial for health and wellbeing!

Serious BUS-iness: Bus safety on our roads

Being safe around buses can prevent a tragedy. The National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) is emphasising the importance of safety around buses with the launch of a new We All Need Space campaign.

Key safety tips include:

• Never overtaking a turning bus

• Give way to merging buses

• Reduce speed and taking extra caution when passing a stopped school bus with its warning lights flashing, and

• Wear seatbelts when a bus is fitted with them.

“Buses carry the most precious cargo of all - your family, friends and loved ones - and we all need space

to keep you and them safe. A bus is a driver’s place of work, and across the country they see all types of unique passengers every day,” NHVR CEO Sal Petroccitto OAM said. For more information on We All Need Space, visit weallneedspace.com.au.

Brighton to be home for green hydrogen

A hydrogen production and refuelling station is planned for the Brighton Hub. Two more stations are also on the way, with one for Wesley Vale, and the other for Launceston. Each station will have the equipment needed to produce and supply green hydrogen, which will help cut down on carbon emissions from trucks.

Countrywide Hydrogen are facilitating the stations, aiming to make Tasmania a hub for green hydrogen. Hydrogen is a zero-emissions fuel produced from water and electricity. It can replace diesel in powering trucks, buses, cars and trains.

The proposed Tasmanian stations are part of the Hydrogen HyWay#1 project, Countrywide

Hydrogen’s flagship project, which aims to set up a hydrogen transport system. Once HyWay#1 is up and running, they can start producing hydrogen at various sites across Tasmania, including Brighton. Initially, they’ll focus on supplying hydrogen to heavy trucks and industries in Tasmania.

Countrywide Hydrogen will receive funding from the Tasmanian Government when they start producing hydrogen in Tasmania. The government has introduced the Green Hydrogen Price Reduction Scheme (GHPRS) which will give Countrywide Hydrogen money for every kilogram of green hydrogen they sell, helping them offer competitive prices compared to diesel. This is part

of the government’s $8 million pledge in support of Countrywide Hydrogen.

Each station is designed to supply up to 690,000kg of green

hydrogen per annum, which equates to refuelling around 33 fuel cell trucks per day. When this comes to fruition, Brighton will be at the forefront of the shift towards renewable energy.

If you want to learn more visit www.recfit.tas.gov.au and www. engagetas.com.au/hydrogenbrighton.

A Will in Australia serves as a crucial legal document outlining how you want your assets distributed after your death. Here are some key benefits:

Clarity and control: With a Will, you have the power to decide who receives your assets, money, and possessions. This ensures that your wishes are clearly documented and followed, minimising the potential for disputes among family members.

Protection of loved ones: A Will allows you to provide for your family and loved ones even after you’re gone. You can designate guardians for minor children, ensuring they’re cared for by people you trust. Additionally, you can make provi-

Efficient estate administration: Without a Will, your estate is subject to intestacy laws, which dictate how your assets will be distributed. This can lead to your estate passing to people you do not wish to benefit. It can further lead to delays and complications in settling your affairs. A properly drafted Will can streamline the probate process, making it easier for your executor to manage your estate.

Tax efficiency: Through strategic estate planning in your Will, you can minimise the tax burden on your estate and beneficiaries. This may involve structuring your estate in a way that maximises tax benefits or takes advantage of available exemptions and deductions.

Peace of mind: Creating a Will provides peace of mind, knowing that you’ve taken steps to

ensure your wishes are carried out and your loved ones are provided for. It also relieves your family of the burden of making difficult decisions during a time of grief.

Having a Will in Australia empowers you to control the distribution of your assets, protect your loved ones, streamline estate administration, optimise tax outcomes, and achieve peace of mind. An enduring power of attorney serves as a document giving a trusted person the control of your legal, business and financial life if you have lost capacity for decision making. Whilst a Will operates after your death, an enduring power of attorney operates during your lifetime. It is an essential tool to ensure your life runs as smoothly as possible if you cannot make decisions for a short, medium or long term.

Authorised by Senator Wendy Askew, Liberal Party of Australia, 46 Cameron Street, Launceston TAS 7250.

WHAT’S ON IN MAY/ JUNE/JULY

JUNE

MAY

27

Today until 3 June is National Reconciliation Week - a time for all Australians to learn about our shared histories, cultures, and achievements, and to explore reconciliation.

Learn free diabetes education at Gagebrook Community House, 10am-1pm. Free for people registered with National Diabetes Services Scheme. Book at events.ndss.com.au or 1800 637 700.

Get ready to roll with laughter and prizes at the Marvellous May Fundraiser Cent Night at Bridgewater Community House, 5:30pm. Your $8 entry includes a light supper.

3

Enjoy a weekly Bingo session? Join Bingo Night at Brighton Bowls & Community Club every Monday night. Eyes down at 7pm. May the odds be ever in your favour.

The Campbell Town Show is here. From sheep dog trials to pet parades, horse events, and everything in between, it’s a weekend packed with fun.

Brighton Food Hub, which provides affordable food for the community, is open every Tuesday and Thursday (10am-4pm), and every Wednesday (4pm-7pm). 4

Would you like to become a Wildlife Rescuer? Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary are holding their free online course today, covering the basics of Wildlife Rescue and Transport. Register at www. bonorong.com.au. 29 31 31 8 11 5 12 16 17 24 1

At Gagebrook Community House today a free medical clinic is being held from 1pm-4pm. Open to all. Book by calling 0407 851 050. Also on 25 June.

12

Rug up and head to the Huon Valley Midwinter Festival. With performances, food, and cider at the Apple Shed, Grove. Kids under 16 are free. Visit www. williesmiths.com.au for more.

Get your game face on for Random Bowls at Brighton Bowls & Community Club Inc. Every Saturday and Wednesday at 10:30am it’s bowls, banter, and a light lunch for just $10.

Dig into nature with Bridgewater Landcare Group for a National Tree Planting Day event. From 10am–1pm at Bridgewater Parklands playground.

Revel in the winter festivities of Dark Mofo, including the famous Winter Feast, which is free today and on the 23rd. There are some music and dance parties throughout the celebration, and Nude Solstice Swim on the 21st.

Lions Club Of Brighton hold their monthly meeting at 6:30pm tonight at the Old Council Chambers.

Lions Club Of Brighton hold their monthly meeting at 6:30pm at the Old Council Chambers.

Let your child’s imagination run wild at Lego Club at Bridgewater Library from 3:15pm-4:15pm. Register via eventbrite.

Need medical help? Head to the free medical clinic today, open to everyone, 1pm-4pm, at Bridgewater Community House. Book by calling 0448 902 804. Also on 19 June.

Start your engines! Join Performance Driving Australia at Baskerville Raceway in Old Beach for a full track day in your own car. Enter at www. performancedrivingevents.com.

Lace up your running shoes for the Russell Falls Trail Run at Mt Field. It’s a 6.2km adventure with breathtaking views and Tassie’s best waterfalls. $35 entry, register online.

Learn to search through digital documents and find treasures like vintage sewing patterns, retro recipes or old maps at Bridgewater Library from 10am11:30am. Register via eventbrite. 14 15 20 27 28 22

Join The Friends of Old Beach Foreshore for a National Tree Planting Day session. 10am–12 pm. Meet at the jetty, Jetty Rd, Old Beach. Be part of Australia’s largest tree planting and nature event.

Upgraded truck stop for Bridgewater

A heavy vehicle truck stop in Bridgewater, located at the corner of Glenstone Road and Strong Street, is getting a makeover. Construction started in April and should wrap up by May 2025.

The upgrades will include landscaping, better signs, walkways, restrooms, and covered seating areas with bins, with space to encourage food trucks.

Carol Brown, the Federal Assistant Minister for Infrastructure and Transport, says she wants truck drivers in Tasmania to have safe places to rest so they don’t get tired while driving. “Heavy vehicle rest areas enable truck drivers to effectively manage their fatigue by planning their journey and knowing where they can safely stop and rest,” she said.

These upgrades also aim to greatly improve the appearance and functionality of the

space, and become a meeting place for heavy vehicle operators. The project is funded under the Australian Government’s Heavy Vehicle Rest Area initiative, with contributions from the Australian Government and Brighton Council. During construction,

they expect it to create almost five full-time jobs.

The upgrade is part of the Brighton Industrial Estate Brand & Place Strategy, to develop Brighton Hub into an attractive area for investors and businesses.

Head along to the Tea Tree Community Hall for an engaging Community Happy Hour today from 12:30pm. Enjoy a relaxed atmosphere with food van and bar on site.

Brighton Places of Worship

Catholic

St. Paul’s Catholic Church 2-4 Paice St, Bridgewater

Saturday Vigil - 6pm Sunday - 9am and 12 noon

Fr. Leo 6263 6242

St Matthew’s Catholic Church 231 Brighton Rd, Brighton Sunday - 10:30am 6263 6242

Hindu

Sri Ganesha Cultural Center and Worship Place 6 Letitia Grove, Bridgewater 400 273 249

New Life Christian

Brighton Civic Centre Green Point Rd Sunday - 10.30am

Pastor Brian Edwards 0458 505 070

Anglican

St. Mark’s Church LOT 1 Kimberly St, Pontville

Sunday - 10am

Rev. Rod. Curtain 6263 7700

Uniting Church

Claremont-Bagdad

Claremont

36 Wyndham Rd, Claremont Sunday - 10am

Glenorchy 446 Main Rd, Glenorchy Sunday - 9.30am

On the 1st Sunday, services are combined. Venue alternates between the two churches, starting at 10am

Rev. Sherrin Jackman 0447 507 059

Uniting Church

Bridgewater-Gagebrook

Bridgewater

Uniting Hub, Green Point Rd

Sunday - 10am 0434 799 506

The hunt for Bridal Creeper

Tasmania’s native ecosystems are in a battle against the invasive Bridal Creeper (Asparagus asparagoides), a pesky asparagus weed with a knack for spreading. This hardy plant, capable of thriving in various environmental conditions, poses a threat to Tasmania’s natural flora.

Despite its relative rarity in Tasmania, the Bridal Creeper is slowly but surely making its way southeast from the northern regions, where there is more of it growing.

There have been recent sightings in the Huon and Derwent valleys, as well as within the Brighton municipality.

But it’s not all doom and gloom. The weed’s current levels make their removal possible. The key lies in understanding how big the problem is, and here’s where you can play a part.

The iNaturalist app is a tool for identifying and mapping weeds and other plants and animals. Download the app on your mobile phone, snap

a photo of any suspicious flora and fauna, and share your observations. In the case of Bridal Creepers, share by selecting the ‘Bridal Creeper in Tasmania’ project.

Telltale signs of the Bridal Creeper include:

• Stems up to 3m long that twist around whatever they touch

• Small, hard and pointy leaves that grow alternately (not opposite each other)

• Small white flowers that are produced in late winter to early spring

• Pea-sized fruits that form in spring, first green then maturing to red.

Even if you’re not tech savvy, you can contribute by keeping an eye out for signs of the Bridal Creeper, and then reporting your findings to Raelene Mibus at 03 6295 3262 or raelene.mibus@enviro-dynamics.com.au.

TAKE A BREAK

Classic Chicken Soup

This warming soup is an easy take on a winter classic. Pop a batch on and be rewarded with a delicious broth, perfect for freezing in portions.

Ingredients:

One whole fresh chicken (about 1-1.5kg, you don’t need a huge one)

3-4 celery stalks with leafy tops, cut into quarters lengthwise, then chopped

2 medium carrots, cut into half lengthwise, then chopped

1 brown onion, chopped into small pieces

1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional)

¼ cup pearl barley (optional) Salt and pepper to taste

Method: Rinse the chicken (includ-

ing the cavity) then place it in a large pot and cover with cold water. Bring this to the boil, while chopping your veggies. Add the salt, pepper, carrots, celery, celery tops, vinegar and onion once it hits the boil. Lower to a simmer and leave with the lid simmering on low for at least one and a half hours. If you’re using pearl barley, add it in half an hour before the soup is finished. You can scoop any scum off the surface. Once the chicken is cooked, take it out and remove the chicken from the bones. Put the chicken back into the soup and serve.

You can also reserve some of the chicken to use for sandwiches or salads if you prefer less chicken in the soup. Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for 4-5 days.

Congratulations Helen Geard, Member of the Order of Australia

Brighton Council would like to formally acknowledge and sincerely congratulate Helen Geard AM on becoming a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) as part of the 2024 Australia Day Honours.

Helen is a local resident of the Brighton municipality, who lives in Brighton. She received

her Order of Australia for significant service to youth and to the community overall. This includes extensive service to the Girl Guides Australia and Tasmania, including as a board member and State Commissioner. She has also been heavily involved over many years in Rural Youth Tasmania, Royal Agricultural Society of Tasmania (Hobart Show) and Landcare Tasmania.

Her commitment to caring for the environment stretches a long way back to her childhood when she would help her father plant trees on their farm at Tea Tree. Helen currently works as the Natural Resource Management Officer for Southern Midlands Council, a role she has held in some form or another since 1999.

Farming and rural life is in Helen’s DNA and this is where her

interest in caring for the land and the power of community comes from. She spent her formative years on the family farm in Oatlands before at the age of 15 years the family moved to Tea Tree and a smaller property as her father prepared for retirement.

“I’ve always had an interest in farming and the environment. I was helping my Dad plant trees way before it was trendy. I became involved with the Brighton Rural Youth and got a taste for Landcare through Rural Youth as well.”

Helen was also involved with the Girl Guides from a very young age and started with the Bridgewater/Gagebrook unit in the 1980s. They originally would meet in the ‘Old Scout Hall’ in Bridgewater and typically had 15-20 girls as members.

New nutritional health coaching business opens for Brighton

A new nutritional health coaching service, led by Sandra Harvey, has opened in Brighton. It's aimed at tackling common health problems caused by bad eating habits and not moving enough, such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, hypertension and other non-communicable diseases.

Nutritional counselling is one sector of the health profession where a qualified nutritionist or health and wellness coach will address a client’s concerns in relation to inactivity, lack of exercise, poor eating habits, over consumption of ultra processed foods and stress.

“The consensus in the community is that they view obesity as an individual problem with individual solutions. The focus on the individual gives rise to the ‘blame the victim’ approach ignoring the environment, advertising, social media, food insecurity and peer pressure,” Sandra said. “This is where the nutritional counsellor steps in and works with the client to

address all those issues impacting weight gain and related diseases.”

Sandra understands that being overweight isn't just about what you eat and how much you move. It's also influenced by things like adverts, social media, and feeling insecure. She wants to help people make big lifestyle changes, not just lose weight. Sandra discusses your history, sets realistic goals, guides you to change your health behaviour, teaches you how to nourish your body and brain and control or even reverse some diseases.

Current weight loss drugs such as Ozempic or Mounjaro are expensive, long-term, have side-effects, and for some people, are high risk. Sandra believes it's rewarding to work with a qualified professional

When reflecting on her AM, Helen said she was overwhelmed and felt incredibly honoured. “For me it is recognition of the organisations I have been involved in and worked for as a volunteer over many years including the Girl Guides and Rural Youth. It is not all about me but what these organisations do in mentoring young people.”

Helen really enjoys living in Brighton and feels it is perfectly located for her work and interests. She feels connected to the place having moved here as a 15-year-old and is now 53 years old. She has observed much positive change in the township of Brighton over the years and is excited by the infrastructure and facilities that are now available to the community in recent years with the new Brighton Regional Sports Pavilion, Seymour Street Park,

streetscaping and the development of the green spaces and walking tracks to make it a very liveable town for everyone.

“It is such an exciting time to be living in our area with the new Bridgewater Bridge, the new Brighton High School and new IGA supermarket to name just a few. Council has done a great job with improving Brighton’s infrastructure and creating places where people can connect as our community grows. I look forward to many more years of volunteering - working with young people and caring for the land in the Brighton area and beyond.”

Helen is most definitely a deserving recipient of the Order of Australia and we are proud to have her as a member of our community.

Nude Food Week Coming to Brighton Schools

Plastic Free July is a global movement that helps people be part of the solution to end plastic pollution. A part of this is Nude Food Week, which promotes healthy and litter-free lunch boxes for school kids. To celebrate Nude Food Week, Brighton Council wants to support teachers or schools to run a Nude Food challenge for the last week of Term 2, from 1-5

July. Council is offering to collaborate with schools on student prizes and help with organising activities. Teachers can also sign up to Plastic Free July’s free schools portal to view a range of other ideas and activities that help raise awareness about plastic. For more details contact Gwen Harper at gwen.harper@ brighton.tas.gov.au, or visit www.plasticfreejuly.org.

on a journey towards better health. It takes effort, but Sandra wants to help people learn about good habits and feel supported.

It's also important to help kids and teenagers learn good habits early on. “The community wants to see young children and adolescents participating in physical activity, eating well and nourishing their developing brain. It will take the community to tackle what the World Health Organisation Acceleration Plan to Stop Obesity states in its 2023 report that tackling obesity is critical and urgent,” she said.

If you're interested in getting help with your diet or improving your health, you can email Sandra at sandra59harvey@ gmail.com to start your journey.

What’s on at the Tea Tree Community Hall

The Tea Tree Community Hall Committee extends an invitation for events scheduled throughout the upcoming winter months.

On the 1st and 3rd Friday of every month Euchre sessions are held, starting at 7pm. Entry is $5. Bring your own drinks and snacks for the card-playing camaraderie.

Mark your calendars for the 1st and 3rd Monday of each

month to play Pickleball. From 10am-12pm, $5 per participant.

A Community Happy Hour is on 30 June and 28 July, from 12:30pm. Enjoy a relaxed atmosphere with food van and bar on site.

Save the date for a Dinner Dance on 24 August, from 6pm for a 6:30pm start. Enjoy canapés, cocktails, dinner and dessert, for $65 per head.

Giving your dog’s no. 2 a green thumbs-up

Did you know that dog poo, pet hair and organic/natural kitty litter can be placed in your FOGO bin? Yes it can! This helps reduce the amount of waste going to landfill and creates valuable compost for our gardens and parks. Please remember DO NOT put

dog poo in the recycling or general waste bins, as this can contaminate the materials and cause health and environmental issues. For more information on what can and cannot go in the FOGO bin, please visit www.brighton.tas.gov. au/property/fogo.

Old Beach foreshore gets TLC from local volunteers

A dedicated group of volunteers recently gathered at the Old Beach foreshore for a community cleanup event. Despite the modest turnout, their efforts made a big impact. Together, they tidied up the area and tackled weeds, ensuring the beauty of this spot in Brighton remains intact. A special shoutout goes to all the volunteers who generously gave their time to maintain this stretch of coastline.

Dog owners: Are your pups registered and microchipped?

Registration is compulsory for dogs aged six months and over, in accordance with the Dog Control Act 2000. If you don’t register your dog, you may be issued with an on the spot fine.

Dog registration fees are payable annually and due by 31 July each year. There’s a discount if you pay earlier and reduced fees for pensioners and those with desexed dogs. Penalties apply if you don’t pay by 31 July.

Brighton Council’s animal control officer checks dog registrations in the Brighton municipality. The officer may enter and remain in or on any private premises at any reasonable time to check how many dogs are there, and whether they’re registered and microchipped. An authorised officer may also search for and seize any

dog on that land if there’s reason to believe that the person in charge of the dog has committed an offence.

Is your dog microchipped? They need to be. It’s mandatory! Microchipping is mandatory for dogs over six months old. Microchipping is a permanent means of identification which helps identify dogs, particularly if they become lost. You need to let Council know of your dog’s microchip number as this isn’t passed on from shelters and vet clinics.

Own more than two dogs? You need a kennel licence! If you want to keep more than two dogs on premises in a non-residential area – or in the case of working dogs, more than four – you need to apply to the General Manager for a licence. In some cases

you’ll need a planning permit from Council for a dog kennel. For those in a residential zone (Bridgewater, Gagebrook, Herdsmans Cove, Old Beach, Brighton, etc) you’re not permitted to have more than two dogs. Penalties apply if you exceed that.

Keep everyone safe. How to prevent dog attacks. As a dog owner, you’re legally responsible for how your dog behaves. By managing your dog correctly, you can prevent it from attacking people and animals:

• Never allow your dog to wander unsupervised

• Install secure fencing and regularly check it

• When you’re out, keep your dog on a leash.

In public your dog must be tethered or on a leash, unless the place is a designated off-lead area. You can exercise your dog in designated off-lead areas, however, you’re still responsible for the control and behaviour of your dog. Allowing your dog to wander puts its health at risk and can endanger others. Every year pets are impounded for attacking people and livestock.

Being a responsible dog owner involves more than just providing food and water; it also means ensuring your dog is trained, controlled, vaccinated, registered and exercised.

Brighton food relief organisations receive $10,000 in funding

The Brighton Community Food Hub and Tasmania’s Pontville-based Meals on Wheels will receive $5000 each in Federal government funding under the Volunteer Grants Program.

“Volunteers at Brighton Food Hub and Meals on Wheels make an enormous difference to people’s lives,” Federal Member for Lyons, Brian Mitchell, said. “These grants help ensure volunteers are given the support they need, and can help reduce some of the costs of volunteering. Volunteers are the beating heart of our communities across all walks of life, including emergency services, sports clubs and charities, who deserve our thanks.”

Grants of between $1000 and $5000 were available to assist eligible not-for-profit community organisations support the efforts of their volunteers.

Martin Blackwell: Music(ologist) in the air

With roots deeply embedded in Brighton, Martin Blackwell talks about his upbringing in the area, to his recent work delivering local events.

Tell us a little bit about yourself? Quite proactive for what I believe in. I’m a quirky and mostly humble individual who works in Cultural Industries

What was your path to working here in the Brighton municipality with the Material Institute? Brighton municipality is the region where I was raised and grew up - so it’s been amazing to be working here all these years later. To be now working in here in a busy events role is something I did not anticipate. My family are from Elderslie and Broadmarsh, so the area is special to me. I attended school at Brighton Primary. Since the 24 Carrot Garden program was established in Lutruwita / Tasmania in 2013, I have provided assistance with the delivery of our community outreach, workshops and events. Namely, Bond Place in Gagebrook is where the community kitchen for Material Institute has one of its community sites, and I have been working on its activities from the very outset in 2017. Prior to the establishment of Material Institute, I have worked on the Museum of Old + New Art (MONA) events since MONA FOMA was first established in 2009, delivering the Museum’s onsite entertainment program for about a decade.

What is your role at the Material Institute? My role is ‘Musicologist’ which is a quirky and fun title that was allocated to me by our management. My role covers event delivery, music programming, artist liaison and production tasks generally. Our events consist of a weekly community outreach at our Bond Place Community site in

Gagebrook. Material Institute has delivered major events each year with our annual Winterfest in collaboration with the Kutalayna Collective and playing cohost to ChangeFest in 2023, which featured our inaugural River Party on the Bridgewater Foreshore. Our event collaborations are vast and extensive, delivered statewide with essential community organisations who deliver outstanding work.

What do you enjoy most about working here? Simply, it’s wonderful to be working in Brighton as it is home. I remember the Brighton area and its surrounding districts very, very well from growing up here and it’s totally amazing to see the progression that has occurred in the area. Brighton has become a substantially busy, bustling and enterprising region, but also a culturally diverse and safe community for people to live, to attend school, and to raise their families.

Who do you work with on a day to day basis in our communities? Material Institute’s community site Bond Place in Gagebrook is our weekly checkin point with the local Community. At Bond Place our incredibly talented chef Vlad Panevin prepares nutritious and healthy free meals for the Community. Bond Place is a community space open for all, in lower Gagebrook. Bond Place is activated every Thursday for the public with free art activities, gardening, music workshops, live performance and Vlad’s sensational lunch offerings.

What have been some of the challenges? Audience development would be the main challenge, and having people being acquainted with our artistic and creative programming takes a little time to become familiarised, naturally. In my personal view, Material

Institute has broken ground by introducing new events in the Brighton municipality, achieving familiarisation and enjoying amazing rapport and support from the local community. Introducing new events within various regions is a wonderful type of challenge: intrepid, daunting, never boring and ultimately inspiring.

What gets you up each morning? It’s always going to be a happy day if I get to enjoy my pre-sunrise 4km jogging routine! Early morning sunshine on Mt Dromedary is as picturesque as it gets and is there to be appreciated!

What are you working on at the moment? Currently, I’m working on our Bond Place program. Also readying for our very next Kipli & Kani gatherings for our community which are delivered due to the hard work and dedication of the Kutalayna Collective and Connected Beginnings team. I’m also thesis writing in preparation for further postgrad research at Uni (Event Management, Design Science & Sustainability). Currently writing two albums of music which will be sent places once it is complete (at lucky long last).

What are you most proud of from your work here in Brighton so far? It’s simply wonderful to be here and to be involved in a slight way. To have forged new networks and connections with local organisations and community groups which includes, but not limited to, the Brighton Council, The Brighton Youth Action Group (BYAG), Tagari Lia, Gagebrook Community House, Connected Beginnings and the Under One Rainbow Community. To network with these amazing enterprising entities entails so much for the future of the Brighton Community in turns of venue

Carer Gateway’s Tasmanian team provided

activation, audience development and employment opportunity too within the Cultural and Creative Arts Industries.

In terms of working with various cultural groups, it has been constantly amazing to liaise with Brighton’s multicultural community, for the diverse skill set that local people possess in terms of cultural wares, artistic practise and musical prowess. The skills of our people who have either migrated and newly based themselves in our community can never be understated. For me personally, working with people of CALD (culturally and linguistically diverse) backgrounds consistently evokes inspiration and awe.

What do you see as the positives of our communities here in Brighton? Brighton hosts a great multicultural populace and to see CALD communities represented at our events and public gatherings substantially is very motivating and appealing. The burgeoning cultural and creative industries in Brighton is very exciting also with events and arts related happenings increasing year by

year. This trend is incredibly important for our community and long may it reign! Practitioners and designers in the past (myself included) may have felt in years gone by that it was better to be based in the Hobart CBD, or move interstate to seek audiences and sales, educational opportunities too, to practise and to deliver on artistic pursuits. There is a real perception currently that being an arts practitioner based in the Brighton Community makes good sense. Employment opportunities in the arts are thrilling and exciting, and it’s wonderful to see Brighton being considered more as a demographic which hosts burgeoning arts and cultural activities.

What piece of advice would you have given your younger self when you think back today? Go for a jog at 6am more frequently and it will benefit you very much and be sure to check out the amazing view on Mt Dromedary whilst you are at it. Don’t expect to be able to play for the Brighton Football Club in your future years and not expect to incur injury either!

Grace is a carer for her mum Rita, who has dementia.

With Carer Gateway’s support, Grace was able to access free coaching and counselling and connect with other carers through her local Peer Support Group.

Care2Serve is the local Tassie team connecting Tasmanian carers to Carer Gateway.

If you are a carer and would like help too, contact us.

Support is free, inclusive and confidential.