The Hobart Magazine November 2024

Spacious family home with views & all day sun

40 PROCTORS ROAD, DYNNYRNE

This expansive 4-5 bedroom family home boasts 180-degree panoramic views from its elevated position. With significant 1469 sqm of land and a spacious building size, the flexible floorplan is ideal for diverse needs, including a fully self-contained unit with its own separate access. Surrounded by established gardens and conveniently located within a short drive to the CBD, UTAS, and top primary and secondary schools.

MAKERS MARKET Moonah Arts Centre

10am-2pm Saturday

30 November

Our Makers Market returns to Moonah Arts Centre bigger than ever before!

Presenting a wide range of locallydesigned and handmade art and wares, find a treasure for yourself or a unique gift for your loved ones and SUPPORT LOCAL MAKERS. free entry, live music, local food vendors , kids activities, bar open everyone welcome

WELCOME TO

THE HOBART MAGAZINE

We’ve been loving the longer days lately, allowing us to do more with the sun still up, but as night falls, the fine weather is perfect for stargazing—a favourite pastime of our November cover person, Mars ButtfieldAddison. We talked to her about her dream project, the West Coast Space Centre. This exciting venture aims to enrich Tasmania’s west coast with a science venue celebrating outer space.

In this edition, we also profile Anna McDougall, founder of Project Philippines Australia, and chat with Glenn Richards of Augie March about his busy year,

from a new album to film scoring. Plus, we explore Tasmania’s notorious hangman, Solomon Blay, and video games with local ties. Dive in—this edition is brimming with Tassie storytelling!

We love hearing from our readers, so don’t be shy. Drop us a line at editor@thehobartmagazine.com. au or tag us on social media while you’re out and about.

All the best,

Steph, James and The Hobart Magazine team

Publisher Stephanie Williams editor@thehobartmagazine.com.au

Advertising advertise@thehobartmagazine.com.au 03 6295 3742

Cover main image: Brand Tasmania

Publisher Information: While all care has been taken, some information may have changed since publication. The Hobart Magazine regrets it can’t accept liabilities from errors or omissions contained in this magazine. The publisher reserves the right to refuse, withdraw or amend all advertisements without explanation. Reproduction in whole or part without permission is prohibited. The views expressed in articles and advertisements are not endorsed by the editor or publishers. We welcome any questions, feedback or submissions, email editor@thehobartmagazine. com.au, or drop us a line at PO Box 315, South Hobart, TAS, 7004.

The Hobart Magazine acknowledges the Tasmanian Aboriginal People as the Traditional Owners and ongoing custodians of lutruwita/Tasmania. We pay our respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and to their Elders past, present and emerging. www.thehobartmagazine.com.au

Local is the New Luxe

Superfine Merino Clothing Made in Tasmania

Smitten Merino, a Tasmanian merino clothing brand co-founded by Nicola and Carl Mason in 2007, began as an online venture but quickly evolved into a storefront after customer demand for tactile experiences became evident. The brand is known for its luxurious, soft superfine wool clothing made from Australian sheep, hand sewn in Tasmania. Nic, who designs all the pieces, draws inspiration from her past, her grandmother’s style, and current fashion trends. Her daughter, Holly, also contributes creatively, while Carl handles marketing and operations.

Smitten Merino emphasises family involvement, and a small retail and customer care team, fostering a close-knit business culture. The Masons prioritise ethical practices, choosing a Victorian factory to knit their lightweight merino fabric that aligns with their environmental values. Smitten is then carefully hand cut and sewn in a northern Tasmanian factory.

The brand’s best-selling item, the Mary dress, was inspired by Princess Mary and reflects their community ties. Looking ahead, Smitten Merino plans to introduce tailored pieces and has gained international recognition, recently featured in publications like *Harper’s Bazaar* and *Elle*. Despite its growing presence, the Masons aim to enhance Tasmania’s wool processing capabilities, intending to keep manufacturing local. Ultimately, Smitten Merino embodies a deep passion for merino wool, resonating with customers who appreciate quality and personal connection.

Holly wears the Pistachio Rana top and stripe scarf.

Phone: 03 6212 0197 | Free Shipping Australia Wide Flagship Boutique | 47 Sandy Bay Rd | Battery Point www.smittenmerino.com

SAPPHO AND RYAN

Previously owners of the market stall Orlando Plenty, Sappho and Ryan opened up a new cafe called The Lanterns earlier this year in Dunalley.

Where did you two grow up and where do you live now? Ryan: We’re actually both from Tasmania, but from opposite ends of the state; Sappho’s first family home was in Taroona, I spent most of my childhood in the West Tamar region. We live just back from the Carlton River on a few acres.

Why did you choose Dunalley for The Lanterns, and what does that area mean to you? Dunalley is such a beautiful town, and it really is a bit of a crossroads for a number of communities, from the Southern Beaches, Bream Creek and surrounds, as well as being the gateway to the Tasman Peninsula. Community is everything to us. Dunalley has shown such resilience in the past few years, we wanted to open a space that provided locals a spot to meet; a familiar and welcoming place. It’s a place for everyone and we’ve really been shown incredible support from the whole district in our first year.

Why did you decide to name your business The Lanterns? We wanted to choose a name that had a connection to place, The Lanterns being the name of the famously steep group of islands off the Tasman Peninsula. Obviously a lantern is a light source itself, and it just ties in to our ethos of showcasing Tasmanian produce, especially from the region.

In what ways does The Lanterns continue the legacy of your caravan/ market stall, Orlando Plenty? Orlando was always about the produce, sourcing seasonally and locally and we brought this with us to events and catering all over Tasmania. It’s really nice for us to land here in the south-east after so many years

and focus on highlighting the produce of this particular part of the world.

How do you balance the demands of running a small business with raising a family? Life’s definitely busy! I guess we don't really separate the two things, our business is so intertwined with our values as parents. Our children definitely come along for the ride and we like to think they’ve had some pretty unique experiences, but just taking some time at the end of each day to be together is important –afternoons at the river are a must!

Who do you admire? Sappho: All mothers everywhere, especially those facing oppression or war. Ryan: *points at Sappho*.

Favourite podcast or tv show? Sappho: Would I Lie to You is pretty great at the end of the day. Ryan: The Mighty Boosh and all the associated shows like Garth Marenghi’s Darkplace and Snuff Box etc.

Secret vice? Sappho: Love a glass of bubbles but I don’t think it's much of a secret. Ryan: the song Dance Commander by Electric Six.

What are you reading now? Sappho: Landscape and Memory by Simon Schama. Ryan: We’re about to launch a new menu at The Lanterns so, I’ve only really had my nose in various inspiration sources for that.

Do you have any pets? We have an eight

year old black lab X called Queenie who is so full of beans, everyone thinks she’s still a pup.

What was your first job? Sappho: Hospitality of course, I waited tables and Ryan worked in the kitchen at The Charles St. Pantry.

What are your daily news/social media habits? We use social media quite a bit for business and it’s also a convenient way to catch up on news. We both love a bit of Radio National – we spend quite a bit of time on the road so the radio is a handy way to stay connected.

Your favourite place for… Breakfast: Marla Singer. Lunch: Trophy Room.

Dinner: Fico.

Favourite team? Ryan: Charli XCX’s marketing team.

Dream holiday destination? Sappho: Back to Antarctica every time but with my family. Ryan: Iceland would be amazing, I would love to return to Japan with our little ones too.

Favourite Tasmanian secret? Sappho: A special little cottage with its own secret beach, that’s all I can say. Ryan: Haha I almost gave it away! Yeah, that one...

Parting words? Sappho: World peace now. Ryan: Life is short, eat the cake and be kind to one another.

Dr

Dr

Dr

Hannah Colantoni (Oral Health Therapist) Abbi Mulholland (Oral Health Therapist)

ELIZABETH BARSHAM

Known as the Tasmanian Gothic artist, Elizabeth Barsham is a painter who interprets society with dark humour. Her work is strange, challenging, but ultimately playful. She has a solo exhibition coming to Nolan Gallery, starting 8 November for a fortnight.

How did your art journey begin? I’ve been drawing all my life, but while it was encouraged, the assumption was that I’d get a “real job” when I grew up. So I joined the public service when I left school. After a few years doodling on government desk blotters I decided I really did want to do art full time, so I left my job, moved to Melbourne to study, and gave myself a year to see how I got on. Ten years later I realised I was still painting – so I’d probably made the right choice.

What themes inform your art? I have a very strong sense of the universal connection between all things and toss together apparently unrelated objects, often partial or distorted, in my paintings. I use oil paint and a realistic style to present imaginary scenarios with a strong narrative content. I like exploring where a basic idea can lead, and sometimes it’s to very peculiar places. Humour is important, so there is always a playful aspect, but people often find the images ambiguous and disturbing.

What is it about Tasmanian Gothic that captures your interest? “Gothic” art from the Middle Ages is notable for a sense of joy in depicting the natural world, and the rich, glowing colours of stained glass windows and detailed tapestry wall hangings, all of which I find very appealing. These days Gothic sensibility is also the aesthetic of romantic decay, of ancient ruins and dark supernatural mysteries, which is fun, too. Fairy tales and myths are extremely important, but the spirits that haunt Tasmania’s rugged mountains and tangled forests are

not those familiar to European settlers. We have to generate our own local equivalents.

How has the Tasmanian Gothic evolved over the years? When I registered the domain name “tasmaniangothic.com” twenty years ago the term was familiar only to literary academics, and I wrote the initial Wikipedia entry for it. Since then it has become an increasingly popular subculture, especially among filmmakers, and there are many highly imaginative writers and musicians working in the genre here. Between us we will gradually create a new uniquely Tasmanian mythology.

Who do you admire? There are some terrific artists in Hobart. I love Milan Milojevic’s incredible prints, Katy Woodroffe’s intricate designs, Katherine Cooper’s paintings of birds, and the way Michaye Boulter handles light. Too many to mention!

Favourite podcast or tv show? I don’t have a TV set; ABC Classic FM is my usual background when painting.

Secret vice? Bob Ross videos. He’s delightfully soothing.

What are you reading now? 100 Years of Solitude by Marquez. Again. I love the visual imagery it invokes.

Do you have any pets? Do ants count?

What was your first job? Base-grade clerk with the PMG, in the Accounts Payable section. It was not a success.

What are your daily news/social media habits? Listen to Radio National in the morning. Leave it on until I get bored then switch over to Classic FM. Annoy people on Facebook (yes, that dates me).

Your favourite place for… Breakfast: Mostly I eat in my kitchen. Muesli for breakfast.

Lunch: Couple of dry biscuits and a piece of fruit.

Dinner: I probably eat out once a week; there’s a couple of small Indian restaurants I like.

Dream holiday destination? The Tarn Shelf and Mt Field East are favourite destinations.

Favourite Tasmanian secret? Succulent Restaurant at the Botanical Gardens. Favourite place to meet a friend because it’s quiet, food and coffee are good and the surroundings are beautiful.

Parting words? My aesthetic is more Bugs Bunny than Louis Buñuel; life’s too important to be taken seriously.

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NEW OPENINGS ON THE ISLAND

Local beauty and cosmetic business Millie Organics (46 Hampden Road, Battery Point) have opened their very own store after being a stallholder at Salamanca Market since 2015. Beautiful soaps, skin care, bathroom products, baby products, essential oils and candles, all made with Tasmanian native ingredients. O'Skin (7 Castray Esplanade, Battery Point) will open mid-November. Dr Amy O'Brien leads an expert team of nurses and dermal therapists, with treatments for various medical and cosmetic skin issues. She is joined by Dr Sam Gibson-Smith, who offers skin checks and both surgical and nonsurgical management of skin cancers and precancerous change, and Dr Emily Ware, who specialises in women's health, focusing on perimenopause and vulvovaginal health. Australia's largest bicycle retailer 99 Bikes (125 Murray Street, Hobart) are opening their first store in Tasmania soon. Expect a huge range of bikes, scooters, and parts as well as servicing and repairs. Global brand Hilton have opened their first ever hotel in Tasmania, the 206-room DoubleTree by Hilton Hobart (179 Macquarie Street, Hobart) and onsite Leatherwood

Restaurant for all-day dining. Good things come to those who Op Shop. City Mission Op Shop Moonah Mega-Store (15 Main Road, Moonah) has reopened after exciting renovations, packed to the brim with op shop goodies. Richmond has been without a bookshop for a while now, but that’s all changed with the exciting opening of not one, but two book-related businesses. The first is Richmond Book Nook (Shop 6-7, 35 Bridge Street, Richmond), a new independent bookstore covering a range of fiction, non-fiction, and kids books. And down the road is Richmond Reading Room (28A Bridge Street, Richmond), a cute little spot with specialty coffee and eclectic books. Great additions to the historic town. Jordan River Health will house the new Bridgewater Medicare Urgent Care Clinic (9-11 Hurst Street, Bridgewater), providing seven days a week, free walk-in urgent care. Harmony on High Street (116 High Street, Campbell Town) is a new gallery and art hub for the Midlands opening on 23 November. They’ll open with artwork from over 20 Tasmanian artists, plus jewellery, textiles, candles and more.

BITS AND PIECES

STRONG POLLEN SEASON AHEAD

Experts are advising Tasmanians to be prepared for a potentially strong summer pollen season. AirHealth and the University of Tasmania’s Menzies Institute for Medical Research are predicting grass pollen levels will be higher than in recent years this spring and summer. This is due to the high amount of rainfall Tasmania saw over winter, and the higher-than-median rainfall predictions for eastern Tasmania. This may lead to a surge in grass growth, resulting in more grass pollen in the air. Grass pollen is the most common trigger for hay fever and asthma, so it’s important for Tasmanians with these conditions to stay alert throughout the season. Dr Edwin Lampugnani, Chief Operating and Scientific Officer at AirHealth, said, "Our advice to Tasmanians is to be ready and use available tools like the AirRater app to stay informed about current environmental conditions, including pollen levels.” National Asthma Council Australia Director and respiratory physician Professor Peter Wark said, “Now is the time to check in with your GP and make sure you are on the best treatment to control your asthma and know what to do during a spring thunderstorm or asthma emergency.” The grass pollen season is expected to vary across regions.

TASSIE SHOREBIRD NESTING SEASON IN FULL WING

It’s that time of year when shorebirds flock to Tasmanian beaches to nest and raise their young. Parks and Environment Minister Nick Duigan has reminded beachgoers to be mindful of these birds and their habitats. “Tasmania’s coastlines aren’t only places for recreation, they are vital habitats in which many species of shorebirds nest, breed, and raise their young,” Minister Duigan said. The nesting season runs from October to March, and these birds and their eggs can be hard to spot, making them vulnerable. To help protect them, beachgoers should stick to wet sand, keep their distance from nests, and walk dogs only in approved areas on a leash. Avoid driving on beaches and collecting beach materials too.

© Mattea Carson

BITS AND PIECES

FIRST LOOK AT PROPOSED NEW GLENORCHY POOL

A first look at the possible future Glenorchy War Memorial Pool has been unveiled by the Glenorchy City Council. Estimated to cost $84 million, the plan includes an outdoor 50m pool, water slide, indoor 25m lap pool, indoor 20m warm water learn-to-swim or program pool, spa, sauna and steam room, toddler pool, gymnasium and health club, and a café. Renders by Hobart studio Liminal Architecture were released recently. “Council will be briefing both State and Federal Governments on the preferred option to secure funding for the project,” Glenorchy Mayor Sue Hickey said. “In the meantime, Council will be getting on with the job of repairing and re-opening the existing pool which we are aiming to have ready for summer next year.” So don’t get your bathers out just yet. The water slides look pretty fun, though.

PFAS TESTS ON TASMANIAN DRINKING WATER NOW COMPLETE

TasWater has finally completed almost 2000 tests for the presence of PFAS (perand polyfluoroalkyl substances) in all 70 raw water catchments used by TasWater and have had no detections. TasWater also recently announced their support of new draft guidelines on drinking water concerning PFAS. These guidelines were released by the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC), and are aimed at ensuring safe drinking

water. The draft guidelines propose lower acceptable levels for three types of PFAS.

“The lowest proposed level is equivalent to one drop diluted in five Olympic sized swimming pools,” said TasWater Chief Scientist Graham Hawke. TasWater notes that PFAS are commonly found in everyday items, such as water-resistant clothing, personal care products, and nonstick cookware, and are found widespread in the environment. TasWater’s latest Annual Drinking Water Quality Report and PFAS testing detail can be found at www.taswater.com.au/news/water-quality/ water-quality.

LOW-INCOME TASMANIANS ARE SKIPPING MEALS

Low-income households are going through the highest rates of food insecurity since the onset of the current cost-ofliving crisis, according to the Foodbank Hunger Report 2024. In Tasmania, over a third (36%) of households are facing food insecurity and of these, more than half (53%) are regularly skipping meals or going entire days without food. The disparity in food access based on region is evident, with 40% of households in regional Tasmania experiencing food insecurity compared to 30% in metro areas. Across Australia, single parent households are the hardest hit with over two-thirds (69%) facing food insecurity. “Unsurprisingly, people are being forced to cut back on the most basic of essentials, nutritious food, because of the combination of high-

er costs of housing and essential goods, particularly food and utilities, while wages fail to keep pace – all of which are entirely outside of the control of most Australian households,” said Foodbank Australia CEO, Brianna Casey.

TASSIE VAPING LAWS STAND FIRM

New vaping laws in Australia don’t apply in Tasmania. In some places on the mainland, adults can now buy certain e-cigarettes from pharmacies without needing a prescription. However, in Tasmania, the old rules still apply, so adults still need a doctor’s prescription to buy e-cigarettes, e-liquids, and vaping devices from pharmacies. It’s illegal to sell these products to anyone under 18.

MORE GLENORCHY ART WRAPS POPPING UP

More anti-graffiti art wraps are continuing to roll out across the Glenorchy region. Glenorchy City Council announced this initiative a couple months ago in an effort to tackle graffiti and support local artists. The wrap outside Cosgrove High was designed by the Piecing It Together intergenerational street art project, and the wrap outside the Glenorchy Bus Mall was designed by Billie Kinder, adding a touch of eye-catching colour to the streetscape.

BITS AND PIECES

LAUNCESTON PARK SURVEY

The City of Launceston is developing a master plan for Carr Villa Memorial Park, and is looking for the community's feedback to guide the future of the site for the next 100 years. And if you do, you’re in for a chance to win a $50 grocery voucher. The master plan focuses on site utilisation, crematorium operations, services and maintenance, while preserving the picturesque, peaceful, and historical importance of the site. Carr Villa has offered cemetery services for over a century. Provide your feedback, and go into the draw to win a voucher, at www.tomorrowtogetherlaunceston.com.au/carr-villa-memorial-park. The survey closes on 13 November.

COLLINS STREET BIKE LANE GRANT SCRAPPED, BUT TRIAL MOVES FORWARD

The Tasmanian Government has announced the withdrawal of a $170,000 grant for the bike lanes on Collins Street in Hobart. Transport Minister Eric Abetz cited feedback from local businesses and community members as the reason for this decision. Earlier this year, the City of Hobart had approved a trial for new cycle lanes on both sides of Collins Street. In response to the withdrawal of the grant, the Hobart City Council has approved the reallocation of $170,000 from the 2024-25 Capital Works Contingency Fund to fully fund the Collins

Street Tactical Bicycle Infrastructure

two-year trial. Local business owners had previously raised concerns about potential loss of car parks due to the proposed bike lanes. Although the bike lane funding from the State Government is no longer available, $120,000 earmarked for upgrades to Castray Esplanade and planning for bike lanes on Augusta Road remains on track.

WINTER ILLNESS IMPACTS IN 2024

A new study by Moderna Australia has shed light on the impact of respiratory illnesses this winter, particularly among older Australians. This year about 744,000 lab-confirmed cases of ‘vaccine-preventable’ illnesses like RSV, influenza, and COVID-19 were reported. Of these, around 160,490 cases were in adults aged 65 and older. COVID-19 continues to pose the biggest risk for seniors, with about 40% of cases affecting those in this age group. Unfortunately, 1,854 people have died from COVID-19 this year, with older adults facing a death rate around four times higher than those who succumbed to influenza. Influenza was also a significant challenge this season, peaking in early July, and overall cases have surpassed last year’s numbers and the five-year average. Vaccine uptake for those 65 and older has dropped to 60.5%, the lowest in four years.

THUMBS UP

Mood Tea. 100% of profits go towards youth mental health initiatives, and it’s delicious tea.

Doing an online shop for kids clothes and having them sent directly to the Tassie Mums charity.

Doing a reverse advent calendar, setting aside a non-perishable each day this month to donate to those in need at Christmas.

Berries are on their way back, baby.

THUMBS DOWN

Paying to watch different shows on different platforms.

The weather is still wildly unpredictable.

Bushfire season feels imminent.

O’Skin is a premier medical aesthetics, skin cancer and women’s health clinic, providing a compassionate and complete care model for patients.

Dr Amy O’Brien leads an expert team of nurses and dermal therapists, delivering effective treatments for various medical and cosmetic skin issues. She is joined by Dr Sam Gibson-Smith, who offers skin checks and both surgical and nonsurgical management of skin cancers and precancerous change, and Dr Emily Ware, who specialises in women’s health, focusing on perimenopause and vulvovaginal health.

Contact the clinic for an initial consultation and we will work with you to restore confidence in the skin you’re in.

7 Castray Esplanade, Battery Point TAS 7004 p 03 6144 9291 | admin@oskin.com.au | oskin.com.au

BELLERIVE FERRY TERMINAL PLANS LAND ASHORE

A first look at the proposed upgrades to the Bellerive ferry terminal has been released. The new $5 million Bellerive ferry terminal aims to provide easy access and greater comfort for the 500+ commuters who use the Bellerive to Hobart ferry daily. This includes indoor waiting areas, improved seating for a larger number of passengers and bicycle storage options. Construction is expected to begin once planning approvals are completed, which will take 6-12 months. The Tasmanian Government has committed $20 million to deliver new terminals and ferry services at Lindisfarne Bay, followed by Sandy Bay and Wilkinson’s Point. Consultation and engagement on these three ferry terminals will begin soon.

BIRD FLU ALERT: WHAT TASMANIANS NEED TO KNOW

The Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service (PWS) is urging everyone to stay alert about bird flu, especially with migratory birds returning during spring and summer. A strain called H5N1 clade 2.3.4.4b has been spreading globally, causing illness and death in birds and other animals. While this particular strain hasn’t been found in Tasmania or Australia yet, PWS says it’s likely to arrive, carried by wild birds migrating from affected areas. Bird flu spreads easily through contact between birds, as well as through contaminated water, food, manure, and farming equipment. If this strain does make it to Tasmania, it could lead to significant bird

and wildlife deaths, impact poultry farms, and pause activities like wildlife rescue and muttonbird harvesting. Some areas could be temporarily closed to limit the spread of the disease. Scavengers, such as Tasmanian devils and wedge-tailed eagles, could also fall ill from eating infected birds.

PWS is asking Tasmanians to keep an eye out for symptoms in live birds, which can include coughing, sneezing, circling, and swelling in the head and neck. In mammals, signs might include tremors, incoordination, seizures, and respiratory issues. These symptoms can mimic other diseases, but it’s better safe than sorry. If you see sick or dead wildlife, especially in large numbers, PWS says to contact the Emergency Animal Disease hotline at 1800 675 888. Human cases of bird flu are rare and typically require close contact with infected animals. Most cases in humans are mild or have no symptoms. Common symptoms are similar to seasonal flu. PWS advises against touching sick or dead birds. If you have to handle them, wear a mask, goggles, and gloves, and wash your hands thoroughly afterward.

BIGGER, BETTER NUT FOR STANLEY

The Tasmanian Government will be spending some cash-ew to improve the visitor experience at The Nut Reserve in Stanley. The reserve attracts about 50,000 visitors each year. There are planned improvements for signage, vehicle and pedestrian access, accessibility for walking tracks, and a new lookout platform.

BITS AND PIECES

LIBRARY ENTRANCE REOPENED

The State Library and Tasmanian Archives ground floor has officially reopened after some works. At a cost of $1.7 million, the space is designed to be a hub for visitors to relax, read and study. One of the changes was the reversal of the staircase, enhancing flow and accessibility, and welcoming floor artwork designed by Tasmanian Aboriginal artist Caleb Nichols-Mansell.

GIMME MOORING

As the weather warms up, Marine and Safety Tasmania (MAST) wants recreational boaters to use the public cruising moorings available around the state. These moorings are safe spots to tie up your boat. MAST has 28 of them, from King and Flinders Islands to the East Coast and as far south as Recherche Bay. “They are designed by a naval architect and engineered to ensure safe use even in challenging conditions. All the moorings have recently been serviced and are ready for the upcoming summer boating season,” said Storm Eastley, MAST's Senior Recreational Boating Safety Officer. You can spot MAST moorings by their yellow floats and stickers. There are rules for using MAST public moorings: boats can be a maximum of 15 metres long, you can stay for up to four hours during the day or one night, and no rafting up is allowed. Check the MAST website for the full list of mooring locations.

BITS AND PIECES

NEW MAJOR SHOPPING CENTRE APPROVED FOR KINGSTON

Kingborough Council has given the green light for developer Tipalea Partners’ new Spring Farm Village project in Kingston, a new major shopping centre for the area. This $45 million retail hub is expected to create around 1,100 jobs. The centre is already 70% leased and will feature the biggest Coles Supermarket in Kingborough, along with Chemist Warehouse’s first superstore in the region. Other shops will include food, beverage, and beauty outlets. Tipalea hopes the community will start shopping there by early 2026. Located across from Bunnings on the Channel Highway, Spring Farm Village will offer over 7,500 square metres of retail space in a rapidly growing residential area, where Kingston’s population is set to rise by 7,000 in the next decade. The design includes modern sustainability features like solar panels, EV charging stations, and free Wi-Fi, and it will have more than 350 parking spots, plus spaces for taxis and food delivery services.

SEISMIC BLASTING IN TASSIE WATERS CANCELLED

Norwegian company TGS recently scrapped their proposal for seismic blasting in waters between Victoria and Tasmania for oil and gas expansion. It would have covered an area half the size of Tasmania, and been 38 kilometres out to sea. This decision follows vocal opposition to the proposal from First Nations

people, local communities, scientists and environment organisations. Seismic blasting can interfere with feeding and breeding for whales and is known to hurt and kill marine life including zooplankton and shellfish. It’s used to locate fossil fuels under the seabed for offshore oil and gas expansion and involves multiple air guns firing every 10 to 15 seconds, all day for weeks to months.

SEAWEED COMPANY TOPS TASMANIAN EXPORT AWARDS

Local biotechnology company Marinova has been crowned the 2024 Tasmanian Exporter of the Year at the 30th Tasmanian Export Awards. Marinova harnesses the benefits of specific brown seaweed species and their products are shipped to countries like the US, Taiwan, Germany, Malaysia, and New Zealand, aiming to improve human health with their seaweed extracts. As part of their award, Marinova will receive up to $10,000 to help them attend international trade shows or government trade missions. Geoneon was another winner, taking the Emerging Explorer award, while Tasman Sea Salt won the Small Business award. All winners will represent Tasmania at the National Export Awards on 20 November in Canberra.

SHARE YOUR THOUGHTS ON THE WEST COAST LYELL HIGHWAY

The Tasmanian Government wants to hear from you about plans to upgrade the Lyell

Highway, which is a key road for towns in the Derwent Valley, Central Highlands, and West Coast, including New Norfolk, Ouse, Derwent Bridge, Queenstown, and Strahan. The Federal Government has committed $80 million towards upgrading the Lyell Highway, with the Tasmanian Government committing $20 million. Premier Jeremy Rockliff said, “We want to better understand how the local community, businesses, tourists and commuters use the road to investigate potential improvements and upgrades. These improvements could include shoulder and road widening, new overtaking lanes, new and improved active and public transport facilities, intersection upgrades and more.” You can share your thoughts until 18 November 2024. For more details, visit www.transport.tas.gov.au.

CUTE LITTLE READER OF THE HOBART MAGAZINE

“I rushed to grab my phone when I spotted what my two-and-a-half year-old daughter Lucy had picked up to read pre-bedtime by the fire! She promptly suggested we ‘read this book together’. Looks like we have a THM fan in the making. Love the mag, keep up the great work!” - Carolyn.

FISH WITH DEEP POCKETS

Who needs the lotto when you’ve got… fishing? That’s right, catch yourself a brown trout and possibly win a cash prize. Organised by the Inland Fisheries Service (IFS), they’ve tagged and released 16 brown trout, each valued at $5,000, into nine lakes across the state. The lucky trouts have been stocked in Lake Mackintosh, Lake Rowallan, Hunstman Lake, Lake Leake, Great Lake, Bradys Lake, Arthurs Lake, Lake Sorell, and Craigbourne Lake. To claim a prize, anglers will need to catch a brown trout with the correct tag and report the details of the catch, with photo evidence, to the IFS. Remember that you need to hold a current freshwater angling licence to fish inland. This season, angling licences for junior anglers aged between 14 and 17 years of age are free, and there are discounted licences for 18 to 21-year-olds. So next weekend why not get your family or mates together for a little fish, and potentially nab a prize in the process? Best of luck, anglers. For more information visit www.ifs.tas.gov.au.

FERN TREE LOSES BEST WATER TITLE...JUST KIDDING.

In a shocking twist that has sent ripples through the tap water world (not really), the Fern Tree water treatment plant has once again won the IXOM Best Tasting Tap Water in Tasmania for 2024. This is the third time in a row it has taken the title, beating out samples from Rocky Creek and Scamander in the grand finale. Better luck next time Rocky Creek and Scamander, though it’s your own fault

for going up against the king. Fern Tree will now go on to battle it out against the best from other states for the Australian title in November, which Tasmania is hosting. So, how does one judge water? Well, samples are subjected to a blind taste test and rated according to the Water Tasting Wheel, which outlines some of the attributes that water professionals use when judging water such as colour, clarity, odour and taste. Like wine tasting but with less spitting. Ground coffee is sniffed between tastings to cleanse the palate.

IMPACT OF LOGGING ON NATIVE WILDLIFE REVEALED

A new report has highlighted the severe impact of native forest logging on Tasmania's wildlife, revealing that over 300,000 native animals are killed or displaced each year. Launched by The Tree Projects and the Wilderness Society, this study is the first in Australia to quantify the effects of native forest logging on wildlife in Tasmania. The report identifies habitat loss as the primary cause of this impact, though animals also face threats from logging machinery, the burning of logged areas, and culling. While some native animals manage to flee to nearby forests, many struggle to survive due to intense competition for food and shelter with established wildlife. To support native species, healthy and intact forests are essential.

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the name change following the end of a years-long partnership with Blundstone. SharkNinja, an international kitchen appliance company, has signed a fouryear deal that includes the naming rights. Cricket Tasmania CEO Dominic Baker said NINJA Stadium will be ‘the Home of Female Sports’ in Tasmania.

MAC WHARF 6 FUNDED

The Tasmanian Government has made a funding agreement with the Australian Government to fund urgent upgrades to Macquarie Wharf 6 after years of delays that led to uncertainty around Hobart’s ability to hold Antarctic ships and there fore our place as the gateway to Antarc tica. The federal government has assured funding of $188 million to upgrade the wharf and the Tasmanian government has in turn assured access for the next 30 years and a refuelling station for the Nuyina and other ships. Maybe this is where they will pak the Spirits until the Devonport Wharf is ready in 2027?

FROM BLUNDSTONES TO NINJAS

Bellerive Oval is to be renamed NINJA Stadium. Cricket Tasmania announced

SWEET TIME FOR SWEET WINE

Frogmore Creek has won a couple of major awards recently. Firstly, their 2023 Iced Riesling has won Best Sweet Riesling, Best Australian Riesling, and overall best wine of the 2024 Canberra International Riesling challenge. They competed against nearly 330 Rieslings from 140 wineries across five countries – Australia, New Zealand, USA, Germany and France. In addition, Frogmore Creek’s 2023 Pinot Noir won a Gold medal at the Australian Pinot Noir Challenge. Impressive!

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ENDANGERED PARROTS RETURN TO TASMANIA

The first four Orange-bellied Parrots of the season have returned to their Tasmanian breeding grounds at Melaleuca. The critically endangered birds breed in Tasmania and winter on the coast of southern mainland Australia. “Of the four returns, the first two were wild-born parrots from 2019, one was a captive-bred juvenile from Moonlit Sanctuary released in 2022, and the fourth was a Tasmanian captive-bred adult released in Spring 2023,” Minister for Parks and Environment, Nick Duigan said. “In the coming weeks, captive-bred adult Orange-bellied Parrots will be released at Melaleuca, to supplement the number of breeding pairs in the wild population.” Nest boxes have been installed at Melaleuca and the surrounding areas to prepare for the upcoming breeding season, so here’s hoping we’ll be seeing baby parrots not too soon.

LAUNNIE + SURROUNDS NAMED

#4

TOP REGION IN THE WORLD

Lonely Planet just dropped its list of the best places to visit in 2025, with the release of Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2025. The guide includes the Top 10 Countries, Top 10 Cities, Top 10 Regions and Top 10 Emerging

Travel Trends. Launceston and the Tamar Valley was ranked as #4 in the Top 10 Regions in the world. This area is celebrated for its stunning nature, like the rugged Cataract Gorge, plus amazing wineries and local food. A good reminder that in Tasmania, you don’t have to go far to find some of the best spots on the planet.

SAY CHEESE: PYENGANA DAIRY TAKES CHEDDAR NATIONWIDE

Tasmanian cheese producer Pyengana Dairy is spreading the love with its award-winning traditional cheddar now available in 182 Coles supermarkets across Tasmania, Victoria, New South Wales, and Queensland.

DON’T RUN THE REDS

Hobart City councillors recently discussed the need for red light enforcement in the CBD. At the most recent council meeting, it was decided that the City of hobart will write to the transport minister, the department of state growth and Tasmania Police to request regular enforcement of redlight compliance at key intersections such as Macquarie and Elizabeth, Macquarie and Murray, Davey and Campbell, Davey and Elizabeth, Davey and Murray, and Risdon and New Town.

OH

MY COD!

FISHING HABITS REVEALED

Back in 2022 scientists at the Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies (IMAS) conducted a survey about recreational fishing in Tasmania. In the true spirit of catch-and-release, they've now let the results swim free. The 2022-23 Survey of Recreational Fishing in Tasmania provides insight into how many Tasmanians recreationally fish and their habits. Here are some of the highlights: Over the 12 months leading up to October 2022, approximately 27% of the Tasmanian population participated in recreational fishing. While the largest group of recreational fishers is aged 45 to 59, the highest participation rate comes from younger anglers aged five to 14. Despite the rise in participation, the survey revealed that many fishers don’t fish frequently; about two-thirds go out fewer than five days a year. The total harvest has decreased notably, mainly due to a decline in sand flathead catches. Though sand flathead remains the most commonly caught species, accounting for 50% of the total finfish catch, with an estimated 126 tonnes harvested.

NEW FISHING RULES FOR TASMANIA

Fishing Tasmania has released the Recreational Sea Fishing Guide for 2024-2025, which introduces a few rule changes that apply from 1 November. The first change affects sand flathead possession limits for on-water fishers moving between zones or fishing overnight. Anglers are now limited to possessing an on-water amount equal to their daily bag limit for the specific zone they are in. For instance, if you’re fishing in the Eastern Zone but returning to the D’Entrecasteaux Channel, you can keep two sand flatheads per person. This rule aims to aid the recovery of the sand flathead population. The on-land possession limit remains at 10 fish, and daily bag limits stay unchanged. Secondly, rock lobster catch reporting is now mandatory. Fishers must report their catch immediately after tail-marking their lobsters or checking their gear, even if they caught nothing. This report can be submitted via the Fishing Tas app or by calling 1300 720 647, and must be done within 250 metres of the fishing location. Lastly, gillnetting is now prohibited in Macquarie Harbour. The updated fishing guide is available at Service Tasmania stores, online, and through the Fishing Tas app.

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WHAT’S ON IN HOBART

MONDAY WEDNESDAY TUESDAY

Hear gospel, gospel and more gospel at the Sing for Your Life! Choir’s end of year performance, Hobart Town Hall, 7pm. Or get festive at The Nutcracker, Theatre Royal, 7pm.

From today you can post your letter to Santa at the Glenorchy Library. If you send it by 13 December, you might even get a reply (via the library, 16-24 December).

Artists with Conviction presents the creativity of Tasmanian prisoners and Community Corrections offenders. This year's theme, Behind These Eyes, will be shown at the Long Gallery, Salamanca, until 10 November.

Lark Whisky

Founder Bill

Lark is the special guest speaker at a Startup Tas event about entrepreneurship tonight at 5:30pm, KPMG/MyState Building, UTAS.

It’s a great day to check out TMAG’s current exhibition Artists to Ice with works by Australian artists who travelled to Antarctica between 1987 and 2009.

Cold Chisel will rock out at the MyState Bank Arena tonight for The Big Five0 50th Anniversary Tour. Film buff? State Cinema’s playing the 4K restoration of classic Seven Samurai tonight for its 70th anniversary.

Know a bit about lino printing and want to continue to practice? The lino skills social session might be right for you. BYO gear, and teacher John can guide you. Moving Creature Studio, Lindisfarne, 10am-12:30pm.

Huonville’s Victoria

Bruce presents an author talk about her book Adventures with Emilie, about hiking the Te Araroa trail when Emilie was just seven. Rosny Library, 5:30pm.

Comedians have partnered with scientists and researchers at the Australian Antarctic Research Conference for two hours of laughs with Future Science Talks, 6:30pm, Sir Stanley Burbury Theatre.

The Kid Laroi is in town, playing MyState Bank Arena from 7:30pm. Perhaps Ed Kuepper from The Saints is more your vibe, he’s at The Odeon from 7pm.

THURSDAY FRIDAY

The National Festival of Design is at the Crowne Plaza from today until Saturday, or hear local Emeritus Professor of History, Stefan Petrow, talk about his new book Tasmanian Anzacs, 1-2pm, Allport Library.

Dance like a queen to the unforgettable tunes of ABBA with tribute show Bjorn Again! at the Theatre Royal tonight. The infectious energy will have you screaming “Gimme! Gimme! Gimme!” more.

The TSO's Obscura 3 offers an enchanting hour of sound, light and music, at 6pm at The Odeon. Meanwhile, Monty Franklin performs comedy at Altar Bar, his viral videos have over 1 billion views.

Artist Helen Wright’s exhibition, Some Stories Are Worth Telling, is on at Bett Gallery until 14 December, open today 10am-5:30pm.

It’s a musical extravaganza with A. Swayze & The Ghosts at The Grand Poobah from 7pm or there’s Hobofobo (folk punk festival) at the Republic Bar from 9:30pm.

Find true love fast at Speed Dating Hobart, 7pm9:30pm at Franklin Wharf Restaurant and Bar. Or take your date to the Quivers album launch of Oyster Cuts at Altar, 8pm. 18 26 27 28 3 2 29 20 19 22 21 13 14 12 7 6 5 4 8 15 i

Head to Rosny Farm to view the Clarence Textile & Fibre Exhibition 2024, on from 22 November-15 December. Wed-Sun. Round out the year with Hobart Glee Club’s best of 2024 session. 6:30pm7:30pm, Irish Murphy’s.

Time to talk about healthy aging, with representatives from Kingston Chiropractic, at the Kingborough Community Hub, 10:30am-midday.

The Town Hall Ballroom fills with colour for the Rose and Iris Show. 1pm5pm today, 10am-4pm tomorrow. Enjoy delicious local food and music at the Hobart Twilight Market Long Beach, Sandy Bay, 4:30pm-9pm.

Step back in time with the Derwent Regency Festival, 5pm today until Monday night at various venues including Narryna, St James Church Hall, and the town of Richmond.

Details subject to

SATURDAY SUNDAY

The Lutruwita Animation Festival is on at the Theatre Royal Studio Theatre for the first time, celebrating local animation. Watch films, attend talks, and learn how to get into animation. Free.

It’s McHappy Day. Visit your local McDonald's to donate items, give money or round up your order. Everything goes to Ronald McDonald House Charities across Australia, helping sick kids in need.

Sell your old stuff or buy other people’s at the Garage Sale Trail. Also on next weekend, see www. garagesaletrail.com.au for details. Cap it off with funnyman Bill Bailey, performing at Wrest Point tonight, 8pm.

Limber up for the Point to Pinnacle, the world’s toughest road half marathon! Info at www. pointtopinnacle.com.au.

FURTHER AFIELD

15-17 November

The Mount Roland Folk Festival takes over the town of Sheffield for a weekend of music, dance, culture, poetry, learning and more.

23-24 November

Join the Myer City of Hobart Christmas Pageant festivities from 10:30am12pm. The South Hobart Resilience Fair is on at Darcy Street park, and the Cancer Council “A Night in Rio” Gala Ball, 6:30pm, Wrest Point.

It’s the last day for Santa’s Funland at the Regatta Grounds. It’s also the second day of the Australian Ceramics Open Studios weekend, to check out local studios.

16 November

From 10am support local makers at the Moonah Arts Centre Makers Market. A new kids yoga book, Shout it Out! Yoga Therapy for Emotional Resilience, launches today, 2pm-3pm, The Fourth Floor yoga studio.

The European Christmas Fair shares Christmas traditions, food, crafts, and gifts at Polish Corner, New Town. The countries involved are Poland, Greece, France, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, Italy and Lithuania.

Delicious things come to those who attend the Bicheno Food and Wine Festival, at Lions Park, Bicheno, 9am-5pm.

22-24 November

For the first time ever, the Rally Tasmania’s grand finale will take place on Tasmania's North West Coast, with Australia's top gravel rally drivers competing on our rugged terrain. With food, entertainment, and some of our best drivers in action, there’s a lot to see over the three days.

Evandale hosts the Verandah Music Festival this weekend, with a variety of bands bringing their quirky and beautiful music to the crowds from the town’s picturesque verandahs.

23-24 November

Highlands Bushfest celebrates ten years of fun in Bothwell all weekend. Featuring info and displays about camping, outdoor supplies, sustainable harvesting, hunting and fishing, taxidermy, woodchopping, working dogs, delicious food and more. Bothwell Recreation Ground.

30 November

Tasmanian singer songwriter

Ben Salter has returned from a European jaunt with some local gigs including this one at Wilder Tasmania, Gowrie Park, from 7pm. 30 1 24 23 9 10 16 17

Got an event coming up in Tassie?

Email us at editor@thehobartmagazine.com.au

AROUND THE ISLAND

MONDAY

It’s time to shine for Sheffield, the Town of Murals, hosting Mural Fest 2024 through to 9 November. Join art competitions, festival activities, and explore the town’s vibrant outdoor gallery.

Today is Remembrance Day, honouring armed forces members who died in service. It also marks the start of National Recycling Week—perfect time to learn about sustainable living.

Devonport Library hosts Rock and Rhyme at 9:30am today, a free 30 minute session for parents, carers and their children. Ideal for babies, and toddlers up to two years of age.

WEDNESDAY TUESDAY

Cirque Africa comes to Launceston’s Princess Theatre tonight. Immerse yourself in African culture while witnessing a troupe of acrobats and dancers.

Tonight catch the new play from IO Performance in Launceston, titled That Is Not Who I Am. All about identity theft, written by an expert of the security industry.

THURSDAY FRIDAY

The City Love Scavenger Hunt is a self-guided date for couples, and it has hit Launceston. Explore the city with interactive challenges, and discover hidden gems and romantic spots.

Join Gina Chick, winner of Alone Australia (filmed in Tassie), for a ticketed evening at Tatler Lane, Launceston, as she shares her inspiring memoir, We Are the Stars. 19 18 26 3 4 6 29 28 27 20 21 22 11 13 12 6 5 4 8 7 15 14

The Effervescence Tasmania Sparkling Festival starts today until 10 November, with events and wine tastings across Launceston and the surrounding wine regions.

Connect Café is a gathering for people living with dementia and their carers. Held in the Gnomon Room, Ulverstone, it’s a welcoming space for conversation and laughter. 10am-12pm.

Head to QVMAG today for This Vanishing World, where you can discover the life and legacy of photographer Olegas Truchanas, and his advocacy for Tasmania's wilderness.

Remember Zumba?

It’s alive and well, and you can join a Zumba Fitness session every Tuesday from 9am10am at the Spring Bay Community & Health Centre in Triabunna.

Ulverstone’s cultural hub, HIVE will be showing two shows in their planetarium today: Tzim Tzum and Phantom of the Universe. Suitable for ages five and up.

Kick off your Christmas season with a play adaptation of A Christmas Carol, at Launceston's Princess Theatre for two nights only. Bah humbug!

Ho ho ho! Today you can visit the Burnie Christmas Parade, featuring festive floats, family friendly performances, competitions for prizes, and holiday cheer.

Join historian Nic Haygarth for a public talk at Burnie Library, starting at 7:30pm, exploring the myths surrounding the thylacine's extinction.

Enjoy a night of funk as Soundweavers & the Summit Horns play Riverside Golf Club in Launceston tonight. You’ll hear hits from bands like Chicago, Steely Dan, and Stevie Wonder.

It’s party time at the Gnomon Pavilion in Ulverstone, with a performance from Melbourne's The Steppers. Enjoy their experimental funk and soulful sounds from 5:30pm. Entry is $8.

West Coast gamers who want to escape to the virtual world can join the Future Tech Squad at Queenstown Library for a Virtual Reality session, 3:30pm-4:30pm.

Spook it up with The Legend of Sleepy Hollow, showing for three nights at Earl Arts Centre in Launceston. This adaptation of the classic ghost story features actors aged 11-15.

Join in for the Lighting of the Christmas Tree in the Launceston CBD from 6pm. There’ll be live entertainment, children's activities, and a special visit from Santa Claus!

Iconic Aussie rockers Grinspoon are back with their first new music in 12 years, playing in Frankie J's in Devonport tonight at 7pm.

Dance to a night of hip-hop with Greeley and DJ Mizhap, Grace Chia and Lachy Hamill for their Outside the Box Tassie Tour at Pub Rock Diner, Devonport. 7pm.

NOVEMBER

SATURDAY SUNDAY

Enjoy the West Coast Heritage & Minerals Fair this weekend in Zeehan. The fair unearths local gems and minerals, with family entertainment, music, food, and blacksmith demos.

WANT TO EXPLORE MORE?

The Ulverstone Repertory Theatre Society presents UNDER THE TABLE, a murder mystery blending Agatha Christie and Aussie humour at the Ulverstone Civic Centre.

Celebrate the Midlands through 30 artworks by Tassie artists at the inaugural MIDLANDS group exhibition, opening today at the Gallery & Art Hub on High Street, Campbell Town until 1 January.

Take in the atmosphere of Launceston’s Harvest Market and bring home the freshest fruit and veg, artisan bread, pastry and dairy.

Drop kids in after school at Devonport Library for all things Lego. Kids aged seven and up can join a specific challenge or freestyle their own creations. 3:30pm-4:30pm, no need to book.

In Cygnet, join the book launch for Huon Writes at the Red Velvet Lounge, an anthology with work from some of southern Tas’ top writers, including Bob Brown, Kate Kruimink and Matthew Evans.

The Oatlands Art Retreat runs until 22 November. You can attend talks on art and architecture, and participate in a masterclass in sky painting. 30 1 23 24 10 9 16 17

The Wynyard Foreshore Market is held from 8am-2pm along the East Wynyard foreshore, showcasing local produce and crafts, including jams, cakes, preserves, and secondhand goods.

Magic Maria Island

Picture dramatic cliffs, sandy beaches, and chillin’ wombats. This is the Maria Island experience. The perfect place to spend a weekend hiking, swimming, and camping. More than a natural wonder, the island is also home to the most intact example of a convict probation station in Australia. Encounter Maria Island runs ferries to the island from Triabunna, or book ahead and stay the night.

Euphonic Evandale

Evandale is the charming heart of Glover country - the Tasmanian landscape that inspired artist John Glover. This historic town is a haven for art lovers and architecture buffs, boasting stunning Georgian and Victorian buildings. This month the town hosts the Verandah Music Festival on the 23rd and 24th, where music is performed live from verandahs all over town.

Cool Cockle Creek

Cockle Creek is Australia's southernmost driveable point and a free camping spot near Southwest National Park. Once home to whaling stations, its history is marked by a bronze whale sculpture and historic walks. Enjoy the South Cape Bay hike, part of Tasmania's Great Short Walks, leading to stunning coastal views. Bring snacks!

Got an event coming up in Tassie?

Email us at editor@thehobartmagazine.com.au

Background photo: Rob Burnett

Details subject to change. Check the finer points with individual events.

BITS AND PIECES

WHERE TO GET YOUR PERFECT

‘REAL’

CHRISTMAS TREE

It’s hard to believe, but Christmas is just around the corner. No holiday sneaks up on you faster. From choosing, buying, and wrapping presents to working out the logistics of whose house to celebrate at, it’s a busy time. At the centre of all the carnage is the Christmas tree. While fake trees have their charm, nothing beats the magic and scent of a real tree. Luckily, Tasmania has some family-run Christmas tree farms where you can handpick your very own festive beauty. Get in quick, they sell out faster than Santa’s sleigh can traverse the globe. Note that the Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service (PWS) do not allow members of the public to cut down their own tree.

Richmond Christmas Tree Farm (364 Fingerpost Road, Richmond)After a decade of spreading Christmas cheer, the former owners have passed custodianship of the farm to the Polanowski family. Every December, the farm opens its gates for families to pick their perfect tree. Tickets open on 15 November at 7pm and sell out fast.

With good care, their trees can last up to six weeks. And on the second weekend in January, you can return your tree to be mulched.

Coal Valley Christmas Trees (1 Walworth Road, Richmond) - There’s over 1000 trees to choose from at this farm outside Richmond. The farm opens for just four weekends starting on 30 November, with tickets available from 3 November. From small to towering trees, each one is hand-pruned and unique. While you're there you can visit Santa’s Workshop for some fun holiday shopping.

Killiecrankie Farm Christmas Trees (228 Glengarry Road, Glengarry)Established in 2007 amidst the rural countryside of Northern Tasmania, Killiecrankie Farm is Tasmania’s first pick-your-own Christmas tree farm. The farm opens for the 2024 Season on 30 November, and passes are available from 1 November. Like Richmond Christmas Tree Farm, you can bring back the trees when you’re done to give them a full circle.

NEW NORTH WEST FIRE STATION Fire and emergency response in the far north-west has been boosted with the opening of the new Marrawah Fire Station. The $1.4 million project includes the Marrawah Community Hall for brigade training activities, a brigade office area, and a Forward Operations Centre during large-scale emergencies in the area.

A MUSICAL UPHILL BATTLE ON THE WAY FOR CHARITY

Kelvin Smith from A Piano of Tasmania is gearing up for a fundraising event called Piano to Pinnacle. He partnered with the charity SPEAK UP Stay ChatTY for this initiative, which is happening on 16-17 November, coinciding with the world’s toughest half road half marathon, Point to Pinnacle. Kelvin’s goal is to raise $40,000 for mental health awareness by pushing his 240 kg piano all the way from Mures to the top of kunanyi in just 24 hours, as a living metaphor of 24 hours in the life of someone living with mental illness. Kelvin’s training is being guided by Matt Lancaster, who has been to the Olympics three times with the Australian athletics team. You can donate at www. fundraise.staychatty.com.au/p/350720/ piano-to-pinnacle.

Flowering Season December - January (Pre-purchase tickets for flowering season online and save)

296 Gillespies Rd, Nabowla Tasmania Australia 7260 03 6352 8182 | bridestowelavender.com.au

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BITS AND PIECES

UNMASK YOURSELF

We recently received a letter (an actual letter!) from a reader who took the time to make some markups to our cover, citing what we could do better and some good suggestions for future editions. But failed to share who they were. Please get in touch, we might have a job for you! You can drop a line to editor@ thehobartmagazine.com.au or via post.

THE LOUNGE RECOGNISED ON GLOBAL STAGE

Earlier this year, the not-for-profit Launceston Central launched an initiative called The Lounge, transforming an empty storefront in Launceston's CBD into a community hub. Over the winter, more than 8,000 visitors enjoyed music, art, and connections with one another at The Lounge. Now, it has been named a finalist in the City Nation Place Awards, the only global awards dedicated to showcasing the efforts of teams promoting cities, regions, and countries. It stands out as one of just six finalists in the Best Placemaking Initiative category, competing alongside entries from Budapest, Copenhagen, and the USA. This award honours projects that enhance public spaces, encourage community interaction, and improve the appeal of towns and cities. “We hope this project will continue to serve as inspiration and we hope to be able to bring The Lounge back next winter, thanks to the support of City of Launceston we have already started planning 2025 and are looking at attracting other grants and support from the community to build on the magic of this special place,” said Amanda McEvoy, Executive Officer of Launceston Central. Winners will be announced in London on 7 November.

MUSICAL CHAIRS IN GOVERNMENT

It’s been a bit of musical chairs within the Tasmanian government, with a new cabinet officially sworn in by Governor Barbara Baker at Government House after a delay due to the Governor’s commitments during the King’s visit to the mainland. In October Michael Ferguson and Nic Street resigned their ministries, leaving some significant gaps to fill. Guy Barnett is now Deputy Premier and Treasurer, as well as Attorney-General and Minister for Justice. Jacquie Pestrusma, who has a nursing background, is now Minister for Health, Aboriginal Affairs and Veteran Affairs. Kerry Vincent, a former Mayor of Sorell, is now Minister for Infrastructure and Local government. Nick Duigan has picked up the Sports and Events portfolio, Felix Ellis has Consumer Affairs, Jane Howlett has Hospitality and Small Business, Roger Jaensch has Finance and Mental Health and Wellbeing and Madeleine Ogilvie adds Science and Technology into a new portfolio of Innovation, Science and the Digital Economy. Simon Wood is the Parliamentary Secretary for Health, Mental Health and Wellbeing and Government Whip. Jo Palmer is Minister for Women and the Prevention of Family Violence. Simon Behrakis is now a Parliamentary Secretary for Housing and Planning and Rob Fairs is Parliamentary Secretary for Youth Engagement, a new role.

SAIGON ART GALLERY + CAFE

WHERE SPECIALTY COFFEE MEETS ART

Visit two beautiful businesses under one roof. Enter through the doors and enjoy the specialty coffee shop, Saigon Art Café, and continue to explore through to the Saigon Art Gallery. Come by and enjoy the perfect blend of art and coffee.

CAFE OPENING HOURS

WEEKDAYS: 7:30AM - 3:30PM

WEEKEND: 8AM - 3PM

GALLERY OPENING HOURS

WEEKDAYS: 8AM - 3:30PM

WEEKEND: 8:30AM - 3:00PM

You can’t buy happiness, but you can buy coffee, and that’s pretty close.

A WEST COAST SPACE ODYSSEY

The West Coast Space Centre is a dream project of Mars Buttfield-Addison and her husband Paris, aiming to enrich Tasmania’s west coast with a science venue celebrating outer space.

Tell us about the West Coast Space Centre. It’s the ultimate dream of my husband Paris and I: a small, community-focused science venue for the west coast of Tasmania. It might take us a few years to save funds and find the perfect real estate, but the hope is to create a space that is both a science centre— with exhibits and shows and artefacts, focused on a topic that is interesting for all ages and accessible without expensive equipment: outer space. And a community hall—where people can establish hobby clubs, give talks on their special interests, host support services like young mothers’ clubs or training sessions, hang out after school, borrow a good book or two, run vacation activities, anything. It sounds a lot, but all it might take is a space the size of a big shed and a whole lotta love. In the meantime, we visit as often as possible, running space events, taking part in community activities, advocating for STEM resources in the region, or sometimes just parking a telescope in a public place to show passersby the sky.

How did this passion project come to be - and why Strahan? The West Coast is maybe the most beautiful place in the world. But while wealthy vacationers flock there in the thousands during Summer for food and wine and eco-tourism, the people there are struggling to staff critical services, and are suffering a huge decline in permanent population— particularly in young people, as they move away for work or study. Without new people and funds, this beautiful region and the canny, hard working people it breeds could one day cease to be. There is no single solution, but a good start might be increasing interest in STEM through recreational outreach,

then providing resources for people to engage with topics among those which offer remote study and work. I’d always thought that I’d like to be an educator or a proprietor of some venue which might enrich a community somehow. This specific idea evolved over our frequent trips west, but as a vague “wouldn’t it be nice if someone…?”, and then a “we should do it, maybe one day”. But like many people, during COVID I had uncertainty, loved ones in poor health, and time to sit with ideas I’d had for a long time. There was a moment when I was sitting there, 29 years old, in hospital beside the love of my life being told I was lucky he was alive. More than ever, it felt like sitting around having “one day” plans was a big waste of time. Right then we made a concrete roadmap, and started executing on it.

When did you first fall in love with space? I always adored reading about space. The thing that made it stand out to me was the rare moments when we visited somewhere beyond greater Brisbane, where we lived, and saw the night sky properly. By the time I was in my late teens and early 20s, I was working night jobs in hospitality then driving hours out to reserves in the wee hours of the morning just to catch a glimpse. I got my first big telescope at 20, in time for a trip to the outback where I saw a meteor shower properly for the first time and the darkest skies of my life. I had visited Tasmania just once as a teen and it stuck with me for years how the skies even in the middle of the cities were dark here. Once I moved here, it became easier than ever to see and love the sky.

Can you share a fact about Tasmania’s connection to space we may not know?

There are so many! From Tasmania’s own meteorite crater in the Wild Rivers reserve, to the magnetic pole proximity which gives us our beautiful aurora, to the indigenous people’s unique characterisation of sky objects, to Tasmania’s attraction of countless pioneers in physics who spent their lives tinkering and discovering here, or even the growing synergy between Antarctic research and our support of space missions—as entities like NASA recognise the similarity in training and support of humans in harsh and isolated environments.

Tell us a bit about your role as a technologist. My “day job” is at the University of Tasmania and CSIRO, where I work on radio telescopes (like the one near Richmond) to help track objects in space—like satellites, to stop them running into each other. Since COVID, I have reduced that work to part-time so that I can spend more time on the work I love: supporting educational entities and charities in making science communication fun.

Favourite sci-fi movies? Everything from the complete classics (the old Star Treks, Star Wars, Aliens) to children’s stuff (Explorers, Wall-E) to space thrillers (Sunshine, Pandorum) to corny space action movies (Armageddon, Space Cowboys, Geostorm).

You can follow the project at www.westcoastspacecentre.com and on Instagram @westcoastspacecentre.

Volunteers needed for Bone Marrow Failure Research

Tasmanians needed for ground-breaking research into Bone Marrow Failure Syndromes, a collection of immune system related medical conditions that cause bone marrow stem cells to reduce or stop producing healthy red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets needed by the body. By using cutting-edge genetic technology, we aim to uncover the causes of these diseases and develop better treatments.

Participation involves taking a one-time sample of blood, after completion of a consent form and takes around 15 minutes. For further information: 0408 344 559 E marrow.map@utas.edu.au

Chief Investigator:

Professor Alex Hewitt This study has been approved by the University of Tasmania Human Research Ethics Committee (H0030868).

ANNA MCDOUGALL’S FIGHT FOR HER HOMELAND

There is an island in the Philippines called Camiguin. One of the country’s 7,641 islands, Camiguin is a quarter of the size of King Island, but with almost 60 times more people. It’s known for its abundance of lanzones (a sweet fruit) and the four volcanoes that poke out of the earth like fingers reaching for the heavens. This is where Anna McDougall spent most of her childhood.

Today, Hobart-based Anna, alongside her husband Malcolm, is the founder of Project Philippines Australia Inc (PPAI). This non-profit organisation supports low-income children, families, and community groups in the Philippines, including those devastated by severe storms.

Anna grew up on the rural Camiguin coast where the main livelihood was farming and fishing. She shared a one-room house made of bamboo and coconut leaves with her parents and six

siblings. The absence of running water and electricity meant that fetching water from the river, a three-kilometre trek, was a daily routine. Despite the hardships, Anna recalls growing up being a joyful time surrounded by a loving family, a strong community, and a circle of friends.

Her life changed when her father passed away from throat cancer. At just 14, she left school and moved to the city to work as a maid, where she earned subsistence wages, most of which went back to her family. “I was the main financial supporter for my family from my early teens,” she explains. “Life was very hard and difficult, having to work constantly, because my priority was to help my family survive.”

Anna was 23 and working in a bakery when she met her future husband, Malcolm. He was temporarily working in the Philippines for a marine salvage company. That company offered Anna a position as an office assistant and interpreter, which she eagerly accepted for its better pay. During this time, Anna and Malcolm grew close and developed strong feelings for each other. “The rest is history,” she says.

In December 2012, she made the difficult decision to move with Malcolm to his home in Hobart. She had to adjust to living in a totally different country and culture. After spending all her life in the hot, humid Philippines, she was struck by the cold temperatures of Hobart. It was also quieter than she was used to, with

less people and traffic. “I was impressed by the great friendliness of those I met, and their welcoming and helpful attitude,” she says.

As Anna was adjusting to her new life, disaster struck her homeland. On 3 November, 2013, Typhoon Haiyan formed, and unleashed fury to Southeast Asia over the following days. It was one of the deadliest tropical storms ever recorded, and caused particular damage to the Philippines, where over 6,300 people were killed. The level of destruction was unimaginable.

Watching her first home country suffer, Anna felt an urgent need to help. That same month, she and Malcolm founded Project Philippines Australia. “The purpose of PPAI was and is to provide essential basic support for schools and hospitals that were destroyed during the Typhoon,” she says. This includes teaching and learning materials, medical supplies, bedding, and building materials.

Over the years, PPAI has made a significant impact in the Philippines. During the COVID-19 pandemic, they distributed protective masks to help children return to school safely. They’ve launched school meal programs, provided learning materials, and supplied clothing to low-income schools. Their support has extended to hospital maternity wards with linens and baby incubators, life jackets for fishermen in coastal villages, and repairs to storm-damaged fishing boats.

It’s been over a decade since Anna started PPAI, and she continues to nurture its growth. “In addition to increasing the number of disadvantaged children and communities we assist,” she says, “we are also seeking to ensure that such assistance is of the highest quality possible. We do not just want to assist low income, disadvantaged communities during times of crisis, but also all year round during normal times.”

From the shores of Camiguin to the noble endeavours of PPAI, Anna’s story is one of resilience and personal sacrifice. “I value the great support and acceptance of Malcolm’s family, my many friends, and the Filipino Community in Hobart and Tasmania. Although I come from a very poor family in the Philippines, they were only economically poor. They are very rich in their hearts and in the warm and

TSO x Satu Vänskä

With Jim Moginie (Midnight Oil) and Brian Ritchie (Violent Femmes).

Obscura 3 at the Odeon.

Thursday 21 November, 6pm

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kind ways in which they interacted and cared for each other.

“From the bottom of my heart I thank you all. You have helped me grow as a person and make the most of my life,” she says.

You can follow Anna’s quest, and help donate, at the Project Philippines Australia PPAI Facebook page.

Madeleine

Liberal Member for Clark

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DEEP CUTS AND EUROPEAN SUMMERS

Glenn Richards is the singer-songwriter and guitarist for Australian rock band Augie March. He’s also a Hobart resident and he’s had a huge year. From releasing a new Augie album, and a two-volume compilation of unreleased solo tracks, to scoring the hit horror film Late Night with the Devil.

Augie March’s new album, Malagrotta, was written from notes on a mobile phone while you were dealing with COVID and enduring a brutal European summer. Can you tell us more about that? I was over there on a long delayed trip and had suffered my first bout of COVID a little while before leaving. I felt like I was experiencing the vestiges or after effects of an illness and in pretty full recovery but jetlag, heat and the usual stresses of long distance travel seemed to give it legs. A vague and ever present, occasionally loud, paranoia, considerable fatigue, almost an hallucinatory state at times. The best I could manage was to feed whatever feverish imaginings I was having into emails to myself that I would collate later on and draw songs from.

The songs on Malagrotta take listeners on a journey through various European countries. How did these places influence your songwriting? I’ve always responded strongly to new environments, sometimes well and sometimes negatively. When you’re in places you’ve only imagined, those reactions come strong and always flipping from one to the other. It’s a decent dynamic for a writer, being away, being challenged and moved in strange ways, but that rarely means you actually like it. It’s more of a defensive resort than a pleasant compulsion.

Why did you choose to name the album after the infamous rubbish dump in Rome? It’s more the metaphor for a state of mind, and for our world at large. We’re very fortunate to breathe relatively clean air and move about in space the way we have it in Tasmania. People don’t need to hear another ‘creative’ telling them that we’ve done a crippling number on the planet, but it’s

there at the centre of everyone's thinking whether they choose to believe it or not. I think you can bring allusion into the songwriting world and along with a sense of historical reflection, dream and imagination, create something that speaks to large fears while not being overly literal or preaching.

The release strategy for this album, with minimal marketing and avoiding Spotify, goes against industry norms. Was it important for you to release the album this way? We went to Bandcamp because there’s a fair exchange between audience and band and everyone feels like it means something, just a little. There’s no stopping streaming, and unfortunately there’s very little chance for small to mid level acts having careers anymore or advancing beyond where they’re at - in Australia the live circuit is close to terminal for all but a select few acts. Not paying for public relations was about not being able to justify the expense. We’re just trying to make good, unique records that a few people might discover these days. I think that was always kind of my aim, much as I’ve appreciated a bit of wider attention.

Some of the lyrics in this album reference Sebastianism, the Old King Cole nursery rhyme, and the Pulcinella character archetype. Do you enjoy writing lyrics that invite deeper research? It’s a way I have of keeping myself interested and hoping that the same thing happens for the listener. It might simply give them the feeling of something they can’t nail

but it’s a familiarity. And if it means they go on a journey beyond the song then that’s a bit of effective art. Where I’m at I can listen to instrumental music fine, but there are desperately few people writing anything especially interesting in the popular music world, you gotta try a bit.

How did you approach curating your solo compilation Deep Demonstrations? Really it was a leisurely trawl through some old hard drives followed by a bit of rudimentary mastering. I knew there was a lot of material from the period in question but I hadn’t listened to it in years. Some of it holds up, but the only guiding light for me was knowing that for our audience it’s often stuff that doesn’t hold up for me that does the trick for them. The two collections just underline that as a songwriter I’m all over the shop, and usually breaking things I haven’t paid for yet.

Many tracks come from projects that

didn’t come to fruition. How do you handle the disappointment of projects not moving forward? Songwriting and film composing are hard scrabble. Always you’re fighting for scraps and for most of us there’s very little expectation that what you do will live longer than five seconds. And when you’re working in film and television, areas which are just as fraught in Australia as non-subsidised original music, you learn to expect things to gather dust or just flame out.

How did you get involved in composing music for Late Night with the Devil?

The excellent Cairnes Bros, who made the film, worked on a couple of early Augie March film clips and I composed for their first two features. We get each other and they have always been pleased with my ability to not just fathom the vibe and parse the layers, but do the basics, do them quickly and in a one stop shop. We work economically and they are brilliant - Late Night with the Devil is a beautifully

made film and deserves all the plaudits. It’s actually a good deal of fun making the audio for them as you can let your mind go to many places, and generally the brothers will be there waiting for you, smiling.

When you’re not working on music, what do you enjoy doing in Tasmania? I’m a big walker so I’ll drift about and pretend I’m a tourist in my own sweet town. I’m also lucky to have a great old pile of a joint up on a hill with an unconquerable garden that I can keep chipping away at. Most Tasmanians know you can hop, skip or jump in any direction and you’re somewhere beautiful. We’re very lucky people and I hope we don’t forget that in the rush to keep up with the rest. We’ve got our own thing going here, thanks to the interesting people who live and love it and want it to grow organically and strangely like it always has. The mainstream is boring and not a Handfish in sight.

GAMES YOU DIDN’T KNOW WERE TASMANIAN

Did you know the video game industry makes more money than the music and movie industries combined? For a long time, the game development scene in Tasmania has been relatively small.

Following the recent Level Up Video Game Showcase—the first of its kind in the state—it seems that things are changing for the better. The showcase featured a notable selection of games created in Tasmania or by Tasmanians, and that has inspired this list of games you probably didn’t know have a local touch.

Perhaps the most notable title to emerge from Tasmania is Night in the Woods Released in 2017, this game emphasises exploration, story, and character development in a world of zoomorphic humans. You play as Mae, a young cat who leaves college and heads back to her hometown, only to find it struggling with economic decline. As she reconnects with old friends—who have all changed in various ways—strange occurrences are also unfolding in town. With its captivating mystery and poignant writing, the game received critical acclaim and a dedicated cult following. The Tasmanian connection lies with Secret Lab, an independent developer based in Hobart, founded by Dr Paris Buttfield-Addison and Dr Jon Manning. They created Yarn Spinner, a dialogue and narrative tool for interactive storytelling, which was utilised in Night in the Woods, and they also handled the games’ iOS port.

Since then, Yarn Spinner has been used in other indie hits that prioritise storytelling. These include Dredge (a horror fishing game), A Short Hike (a cute hike up a mountain), Escape Academy (all about escape rooms), Frog Detective (solve mysteries as, you guessed it, a frog detective), Little Kitty, Big City (help a cat find its way home), Norco (a surreal point and click adventure in Louisiana) and more.

Currently, Secret Lab is cooking up their

own game with Yarn Spinner called I Feel Fine. While a release date hasn't been announced, they have shared some fun screenshots online. The premise is, “The meteorite will hit your space station in three days, and you’re bolted to the floor. Can you convince someone to free you?”

Sounds like a blast.

Launceston-based developer Dean Baron is the co-founder of Smash Attack Studios, who are currently working on a game called Nullstar: Solus, a 2D platformer where players take on the role of a scavenger ship. He was also a programmer and integration lead on Broken Roads, an RPG set in a decaying, post-apocalyptic Australian Outback that came out earlier this year. Think the Fallout games set in the world of Mad Max and you’re on the right (broken) road.

A cool surprise at the Showcase was Stray Gods: The Roleplaying Musical, developed by Summerfall Studios. While the team is primarily from Melbourne, the technical artist was Hobart’s own Andrew Mendlik. This game, which came out last year to positive reception, has you playing as Grace, a college dropout accused of murdering the last muse. To prove her innocence to a bunch of Greek gods, she uses her newfound music powers. Your dialogue choices change the lyrics, musical style, and even how the songs play out.

Previously, Andrew Mendlik was the VFX artist on Where the Snow Settles, an entirely Tasmanian game made by Myriad Game Studios, which came out back in 2021. Inspired by Tasmania’s winter landscape, it’s about loss, growth, and the supernatural.

Hobart-based developer Webbysoft are the makers of Bilkins' Folly, a narrative adventure game from last year about a boy and his dog on a quest to find missing relatives. Another notable Tasmanian developer is Giant Margarita, who work with UTAS students to help make their

titles. They recently released Party Poppers, a co-op party game.

There were plenty of unreleased games at the Showcase that are coming soon. Some highlights worth looking up include Plains of Havoc by Tiny Island Games, Lighthaze World by Radiobush, AFK by Shawn Hatten, Packed by Shortbread, The Owl, the Thief and the Strawberries by Ben Phelps, and Melbourne: Route 96 by Lindsay Mansfield.

The future looks bright. If you’re a gamer, consider supporting these local titles to help the Tasmanian game scene grow. Most of these games mentioned here are on major platforms like PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, and PC, and wishlisting upcoming ones on Steam—a popular gaming storefront—can really help developers by showing interest and boosting visibility.

THE TASSIE BOOK CLUB

The Woman Booker Prize Club is a local Hobart book club. Here they share their thoughts on books by Tasmanian authors, set in Tasmania, or about Tassie topics. Over to the club!

This month we’re reviewing a very delectable book from Matthew Evans, and hot off the press (!) a standout new book from Tasmania's young literary star: Robbie Arnott. These are both great ideas for popping under the Christmas tree.

Not Just Jam: The Fat Pig Farm book of preserves, pickles & sauces by Matthew Evans (Murdoch Books, June 2024) Review by Kathryn Montgomery

Matthew Evans is best known for his TV series Gourmet Farmer, and Fat Pig Farm in the Huon Valley where he raises Wessex saddleback pigs and milks a full-cream Jersey cow. The farm-based restaurant is currently on hiatus so this book equips you to recreate some of Evans' favourite flavours at home.

Preserving food can seem a little daunting but Evans keeps things easy to follow

for any beginner. It's a relief to not see a long list of required kitchen gadgets! The 90+ recipes all follow the same simple approach, heroing fresh and seasonal food - some with as few as three ingredients.

Certainly not just jam, it includes a wide array of preserves, pickles, relishes, sauces, curds and butters. It’s got a recipe for most fruit and veg that you might find in abundance, easily grow yourself, or cheaply find when in season.

I love giving home made jams, oils and mustards for Christmas and this book has an exceptional range of wonderful recipes to keep us going for the next few gift giving seasons. The mustard recipes are particularly great, easy to make, and an excellent accompaniment to the Christmas ham.

Dusk by Robbie Arnott (Pan Macmillan, Oct 2024) Review by Emily

Schade

Master storyteller and much-loved local lad Robbie Arnott has done it again with his newest release and fourth novel, Dusk

A bounty has been placed on the life of Dusk, the last (imported) puma stalking the highlands, who is making prey of shepherds and livestock alike - and ruining livelihoods. Socially outcast twins Iris and Floyd decide to join the hunt, embarking on a challenging and insightful journey.

This is a tale full of adventure that is as much about the mythical Tasmanian landscape - a connection to it, and complex human lives and relationships - as it is a killer cat being hunted.

Arnott shows an empathetic understanding of human nature and a deep love and connection with the natural world, while delivering a really great tale, beautifully written. Reading Dusk felt like reading Treasure Island for the first time, a rare and joyous experience.

I loved this book: I’ll be reading it again

and buying it for Christmas presents for people I really like and I suggest you do the same.

Book Chatter: After several weeks of work, the State Library ground floor is open again. The new-look space includes some fabulous artwork by First Nations artist Caleb Nichols-Mansell, a more spacious entrance, and extended display area for the Allport Library and Museum of Fine Arts. This also means the car park is back in action - hurrah!

This month brings the Booker Prize (our favourite). The shortlist of finalists is stacked with women, and an Australian (Charlotte Wood) in contention for the first time in several years. Fingers crossed for 12 November.

And closer to home, on 24 November, Ashwood Publishing will launch Huon Writes at the Red Velvet lounge in Cygnet. This new anthology features contributions from some of southern Tasmania's best writers, including Kate Kruimink and Matthew Evans. Pre-order to support this lovely project, online at www.ashwood-publishing.square.site.

Keen to chat books with us? Find us on Instagram @thewomanbookerprizeclub or email thewbpc@gmail.com.

NORTH SOUTH TRACK

WELLINGTON PARK

Words and pictures: Elizabeth Osborne

In choosing to explore the North South Track, on the north-east slopes of kunanyi / Mount Wellington, our small walking group discovered beautiful and interesting flora, which ranged from open woodland to subalpine vegetation. We walked through a varied landscape, which included caves, impressive weathered sandstone cliffs and cascading mountain streams, whilst enjoying panoramic views over Glenorchy, the Derwent River and the Eastern Shore.

The North South Track commences via the gates at the western end of Tolosa Street, Glenorchy. While there are some reasonably steep sections on the track, these are not sustained. This well-maintained track eventually leads to either Junction Cabin, the Chalet, or the Springs. At the junction with the Old Hobartians Track we had the choice to walk some three kilometres downhill to Junction Cabin or some two kilometres uphill to the Chalet. We chose the route to the Chalet.

RECIPE:

Part of the North South Track is in the Glenorchy Mountain Bike Park and well used by riders. Walkers need to be aware the track is designated for shared use for both walkers and mountain bike riders. We experienced no problems with the “shared” track as both walkers and bike riders were alert and respectful of each other. The North South Track is one of many tracks on kunanyi / Mount Wellington and but one example that, to walk these tracks is to discover a wide variety of vegetation, landscape and views from the wilderness located in Hobart’s backyard.

CHEWY HAZELNUT DROPS

These biscuits are perfect with a coffee, or drizzle with chocolate for extra indulgence. Swap to other nut meals such as almond for a different flavour profile.

Ingredients:

70g egg whites (about two decent sized eggs)

190g sugar

250g hazelnut meal

Squeeze honey (about 1 tbs)

Method: Preheat your oven to 180C. Whisk the egg whites until they’re frothy then add the sugar. Do this slowly. Whisk for about three minutes until the mixture is thick and white. Add the rest of the ingredients. Roll into small balls, about the size of a walnut and roll in icing sugar. Let them rest for 15 minutes then cook on a lined baking tray for 12-15 minutes until they are golden and cracked.

DINE + WINE

CHARDONNAY

Exploring one wine variety, with a local bottle and one from afar.

HOME

2023 'Primavera' Chardonnay ($50): With memories of older, in-your-face style chardonnays, it’s hard to convince some people that chardonnay is a good idea. But it is. And this Stefano Lubiana entry level drop is a superb starting point. Named after the springtime, and also when it’s released, it’s bright and fresh - a reliable partner to a late afternoon get together, a little spring dinner party to emerge from the cooler months.

Set the vibe:

Music: Oxford Comma by Vampire Weekend

Food: Broad bean risotto

When: Saturday early eve

AWAY

Vasse Felix 2023 Filius Chardonnay ($30): Filius is the Latin word for son, and this enjoyable Chardonnay is named as such because it's the “son” of Vasse Felix’s Premier wines. Established in 1967, Vasse Felix is the founding estate on the Margaret River, Western Australia. This vibrant Chardonnay is a real crowdpleaser, bursting with fruity goodness and a zesty acidity. It’s fresh and fun—perfect for sipping on a warm late spring day. An all-round solid, affordable drink. Let this wine be the “son” you never knew you needed.

Set the vibe:

Music: Soft Shock by Yeah Yeah Yeahs

Food: Greek salad

When: Any warm afternoon

ZODIAC CHECK-IN: YOUR MONTHLY ASTRO UPDATE

Words: Sara Hewitt

Aries (21 Mar - 19 Apr): When Mars moves into Leo on the 4th, you'll feel a boost in your creative life and romantic interests. Venus entering Capricorn on the 12th brings positive energy to your career and long-term goals. Watch out for Mercury retrograde in Sagittarius on the 28th; travel plans and communication might get a bit tricky. Double-check everything.

Taurus (20 Apr - 20 May): With Mars in Leo from the 4th, expect a surge of energy in your home life. Venus in Capricorn on the 12th encourages exploring new ideas. The Full Moon in your sign on the 16th brings clarity—time to prioritize yourself. Mercury going retrograde on the 28th could stir up some financial mix-ups.

Gemini (21 May - 20 Jun): When Mars shifts into Leo on the 4th, your communication skills get a fiery boost, making it the perfect time for saying what you think. Venus moving into Capricorn on the 12th deepens connections, making intimacy feel more secure. But with Mercury retrograding in Sagittarius on the 28th, expect some hiccups in conversations. Be patient and keep things light to avoid misunderstandings.

Cancer (21 Jun - 22 Jul): Mars in Leo from the 4th fires up your finances, making it a great time to focus on earning and saving. Venus in Capricorn on the 12th brings warmth to your partnerships, creating harmony and romance. As Mercury retrogrades on the 28th, double-check work details and health appointments. Take a breather, it’s okay to slow down.

Leo (23 Jul - 22 Aug): With Mars moving into your sign on the 4th, you’ll get an extra dose of energy and confidence.

Venus in Capricorn on the 12th helps you find balance in your daily routines and work. But with Mercury retrograde in Sagittarius on the 28th, creative projects and romantic plans may need some adjustments. Patience will be your best friend.

Virgo (23 Aug - 22 Sep): When Mars shifts to Leo on the 4th, you’ll be encouraged to tackle behind-the-scenes projects with passion. Venus in Capricorn on the 12th brings warmth to your love life and gives a boost to your creative hobbies. As Mercury retrogrades on the 28th, be mindful of family discussions. Home projects might take longer than expected, so be patient and flexible.

Libra (23 Sep - 22 Oct): Mars in Leo from the 4th adds a social spark to your life, making it a great time to connect with friends and groups. Venus in Capricorn on the 12th brings harmony to your home life. But as Mercury retrogrades in Sagittarius on the 28th, be mindful of miscommunication—back up your devices and keep those emails clear.

Scorpio (23 Oct - 21 Nov): With Mars moving into Leo on the 4th, you’ll get the drive to tackle career goals with energy. Venus in Capricorn on the 12th sweetens communication with loved ones. But be prepared for Mercury retrograde on the 28th, which could stir up confusion around money matters. Avoid big purchases and keep a close eye on your spending.

Sagittarius (22 Nov - 21 Dec): When Mars moves into Leo from the 4th, your adventurous spirit will light up, making it perfect for exploring new places or ideas. Venus in Capricorn on the 12th helps you feel more secure with finances. But when Mercury retrogrades in your sign on the 28th, things might slow down. Finish off old plans and projects before diving into new adventures.

Capricorn (22 Dec - 19 Jan): Mars moves into Leo on the 4th, stirring up passion and intensity in your deeper connections. Venus entering your sign

on the 12th boosts your charm, helping you attract what you want. However, with Mercury retrograde on the 28th, it's a great time to reflect and tie up loose ends rather than starting something new. Rest up and prepare for a fresh start next month.

Aquarius (20 Jan - 18 Feb): With Mars moving into Leo on the 4th, your relationships will spice up, adding passion and maybe a bit of drama. Venus in Capricorn on the 12th encourages you to let go of old emotional baggage. But as Mercury retrogrades on the 28th, expect some misunderstandings among friends. Take your time and don’t rush through conversations.

Pisces (19 Feb - 20 Mar): Mars in Leo on the 4th energizes your daily routines, making it easier to tackle tasks and health goals. Venus in Capricorn on the 12th shines a light on friendships, making it a great time for social connections. But as Mercury retrogrades on the 28th, be prepared for career delays. Embrace flexibility and go with the flow.

Sara is a Hobart based astrologer with over 30 years professional experience. If you would like a private psychic or astrology reading with Sara either face to face or by zoom or email, please go to www.stargold.com. au for more information and to book.

Image: Kate Marshall, 2022

Authorised by Vica Bayley & Helen Burnet, Parliament House Hobart, TAS, 7000. Photo: Karen Brown.

SOLOMON BLAY: TASMANIA’S INFAMOUS HANGMAN

Pictures: Tasmanian Archives

On execution days, prisoners were led to the gallows in shackles. The last person they saw before their demise was the hangman. A black hood was placed over their heads. All they could do was wait. As grim as this sounds, imagine the life of the hangman, who had to carry out these duties again and again.

Tasmania, with its dark history, offers many spine-tingling tales. Among these is the story of Tasmania’s infamous hangman, Solomon Blay. Born in England in 1816, Blay grew up amid severe social inequality and personal poverty. His circumstances led him into petty theft, and he was sentenced for a year for stealing potatoes and four months for stealing onions.

At this time in the United Kingdom minor crimes were judged harshly, and with gaols overflowing, the British Empire began sending convicts to Australia. Blay’s ticket to the land down under was stubbed when he was sentenced to 14 years’ transportation for attempted counterfeiting. In 1836, when he was just a young man, he was sent to Tasmania aboard the ship Sarah. In 1838, Blay was appointed as a police constable in Brighton while he was still a convict.

However, his tenure was short-lived due to his struggle with alcohol. He was then assigned to a nearby chain gang. In 1840, he saw an advertisement for the position of hangman. Seeing an opportunity to change the direction of his life, Blay applied and got the job.

The role of hangman was crucial for the British Empire but was one that few wanted. It required a unique disposition, and often those who took up the job faced madness and social ostracism. While people in higher positions of justice were well-regarded, the hangman received no such recognition, despite the significant weight of the role. Life as a hangman was a lonely and alienating one.

Blay’s first hanging was in 1941, a double execution of bushrangers John Watson and Patrick Wallace. They were hanged in Launceston for an armed robbery near Ross. Many more

of Tasmania’s bushrangers fell to Solomon’s noose. As Tasmania’s primary hangman, Blay took the job seriously and gained considerable notoriety. Over his long career it is estimated that he executed 206 people, including three women. Starting at the age of 25 and continuing until he was 71, he holds the record as the longest-serving hangman in the British Empire.

While it’s easy to imagine Blay had a thirst for death, this would be an unfair judgement. It was the harsh realities of life as a convict that forced Blay to take the lives of his fellow criminals for the Empire. There was very little opportunity for a man like him, and while it led to a morbid, lonely life, it was ultimately a decision of self-preservation. We don’t even know what Blay looked like. No photos exist of him as he refused to be photographed, and he hated being recognised in public due to the scrutiny he faced. However, his convict record

indicates he was of medium height, with dark brown hair and blue eyes. In 1857, he received a full pardon.

Blay lived in Oatlands and performed hangings at the local gaol, but he also travelled to the Hobart Penitentiary (where the gallows he used can still be seen) and Launceston Gaol (Launceston College now sits upon its ruins) for his work.

He often hiked the multi-day trek from Oatlands to Hobart and Launceston, as few passing coaches or travellers would offer him a ride due to his reputation, although some believe he walked to save money. Blay's lonely hike between executions is commemorated by a bronze silhouette sculpture on the Midland Highway, south of Oatlands. It is one of 16 sculptures created by Folko Kooper that tell the history of the Midlands.

Blay was paid per hanging, and while it wasn’t a lot, the taxing job had its benefits. He was allowed to keep the clothes of the prisoners he executed, and his wife sold these clothes for extra income. And who was his wife? Mary Murphy, an Irish convict who was sent to Australia for setting fire to a house. Mary, just a few years younger than Blay, was described as having a fair

complexion, dark brown hair, and hazel eyes with a noticeable squint. After arriving in Tasmania, she was briefly a housemaid, but was sent to the Cascades Female Factory for being drunk, then again for being in possession of expensive clothes. At some point she made her way to Oatlands, where she became very friendly with Blay, and they soon married. Mary was wise and she took charge of their finances.

Eventually, they saved enough to move back to England with the dream of living a quiet life in a small cottage. However, their dreams were dashed when Blay’s identity as Tasmania’s hangman was discovered there. Fearing further scrutiny, they decided to return to Tasmania, and with few options, Blay resumed his role as a hangman. They spent the rest of their lives in Hobart. Mary passed away in 1884 at the age of 60.

Blay continued his work until 1887, when he retired as a 71-year-old man. He spent his last decade in solitude, passing away in 1897 at the age of 81. He was buried in an unmarked grave at the Cornelian Bay Cemetery, while Mary rests in a marked grave nearby. Although Blay faded into obscurity at the time of his death, his name endures in Tasmanian folklore. His story is a reminder of the

harsh lives of convicts who were sent here against their will. His spirit is said to haunt the Hobart Penitentiary, as well as the ghosts of those he executed.

You can take one of the Hobart Penitentiary’s tours (www.nationaltrust. org.au/places/penitentiary) to learn more about Solomon Blay’s story, or consider picking up the book Solomon's Noose: The True Story of Her Majesty's Hangman of Hobart by Steve Harris.

DID YOU KNOW?

A U.S. CELEBRITY TRIED TO CONTACT SOLOMON'S GHOST

Jack Osbourne, Ozzie Osbourne’s son, visited the Hobart Penitentiary in 2023 to film his paranormal investigation mini-series, Buried Bloodlines. He dedicated quite a bit of time in the gallows attempting to contact Solomon Blay, and got freaked out on more than one occasion. In this show he also visits Willow Court Asylum.

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