The Hobart Magazine February 2023

INDEPENDENT + LOCAL

SCOTT ROTH

FROM NBA BASKETBALL TO TASSIE: HOW DEFENDING THE ISLAND SPURS ON JACKJUMPERS COACH

NEWS FROM YOUR COMMUNITY

PSYCHOLOGY: LOVE, ACTUALLY FEBRUARY EVENTS + MORE

GROWING PAINS: STRAIN SHOWS AS TASSIE POPULATION GROWS

HUMANITARIAN ADVOCATE AND TASMANIAN AUSTRALIAN OF THE YEAR

JOHN KAMARA

9 Lady Franklin Court, New Norfolk

For Sale offers over $995,000

4 Bed 2 Bath

5 Car

Indulge in the idyllic lifestyle you deserve with this elegant New Norfolk home. Gorgeous gardens that were once part of Turriff Lodge, the home of Sir John and Lady Jane Franklin, with mature trees believed to have been planted by Lady Jane Franklin (Circa 1815) as well the fragrant flowers, have been paired with a grand facade to ensure a warm welcome each & every day. Take in the serenity before you cross the porch and step inside where the exterior beauty is matched by the bright and inviting interior. Sweeping timber floors flow underfoot as the layout opens before you, guiding you past the lounge with French doors & into the heart of this haven. A gourmet kitchen awaits the eager chef, with electric appliances ready for you to cook up a storm as you overlook the dining room and family room. A sunroom is a perfect place to read a book with a coffee &, when it’s time to sit back with a drink in hand.

SMS 9Lady to 0488 800 269 for further details.

370 Murray Street, North Hobart

For

over $650,000

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101 Channel Highway, Kingston

For Sale offers over $595,000

•

SMS

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SMS

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machi machi Hobart: 86 Liverpool Street

Editorial Stephanie Williams editor@thehobartmagazine.com.au

Advertising James Marten

advertise@thehobartmagazine.com.au

0405 424 449

www.thehobartmagazine.com.au

Contributors: Taylor Stevenson, Lily Whiting, Sarah Aitken, Annia Baron, Amanda Double, Sarena Hodge.

Cover image: JackJumpers coach Scott Roth (left) with friend and NBA All-Star Dirk Nowitzki. This page: Tourism Australia.

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.

WELCOME TO THE HOBART MAGAZINE

I’m beginning to think that February might just be my favourite month. School returns (sorry kids!), it’s still summer, days are long and evenings are warm and there are loads of fantastic events on in and around Hobart to enjoy. Hobart summer has finally hit its strides!

This month we had the pleasure of chatting with Scott Roth - you might know of him as the coach of the JackJumpers NBL basketball team, but he’s also an ex-NBA player, talent scout and a cigar-lover who nearly called it quits before the first season even started. Lucky for Tassie that he didn’t!

Late summer also brings a backyard bounty, we looked at what you can do with your tomato glut, chatted about Blue Zone eating for longevity and turned the traditional Valentine’s Day focus on love, on its head.

If you have a great story to share, or have something we should know about, email me at editor@thehobartmagazine.com.au…we’d love to hear from you.

All the best,

Steph, James and The Hobart Magazine team.

JOHN KAMARA

Interview: Lily Whiting

Picture: Tas Australian of The Year

John makes us wonder if we all have the same 24 hours in our day. There is no doubt he is very deserving of being named Tasmanian Australian of the Year.

Where are you from and where do you live now? I am originally from Sierra Leone, West Africa. I now live in Hobart.

Why Hobart? As a refugee I didn’t have a choice at the time. However, I can confidently say it was the best choice. It’s so good to be in Tassie. I love it here.

Tell us a little about your work? I am employed in a government role as a Practice Leader at Child Safety Services and my role is very varied. I lead a team of Child Safety Officers to case manage matters where children are subject to Care and Protection Orders for a variety of reasons such as neglect and harm. Each day is different, and we make considered choices around the lives of vulnerable children and families. It’s very hard work but can be very rewarding.

How did your personal experience moving to Tasmania inform your current advocacy role? My experience as a refugee after living through the crimes of war and seeking escape from lethal danger was that it felt safe to be in Tasmania. However, what drove me to do the work I do now was experiencing the shock, uncertainty and challenges of learning to live in a new land and community. This was especially tough as a person of colour in a very white system. Everyday challenges included learning English, riding the bus, making friends, different sounds, different foods and different music, securing housing and witnessing people seek employment in the face of tough and inflexible visa requirements. All of this led to me engaging in the advocacy and community work I dedicate my life to now.

You and your wife Mavis established

Kamara’s Heart Foundation recently, what is the purpose of this charity?

Kamara’s Heart is a whole of family project. We want to promote better educational outcomes for children in Africa who don’t have school lunches or books, can’t afford school fees and have no access to basic amenities such as running water, toilets and hygiene products. We also train teachers to improve their capacity to teach the children well. Kamara’s Heart also provides local support for the community in Hobart such as assistance with writing resumes, preparing for job interviews, completing housing applications, as well as providing food hampers for students and families experiencing poverty.

What feelings are common for migrants when arriving in Hobart? One of the biggest themes I encounter is around visa processing and the requirements which cause unnecessary pain for our families and their past connections. Educational pathways to jobs are very limited for migrants and refugees while value and respect for their current skills may be absent. You must become a resident before you can make choices around what job you are passionate about. Barriers to wellbeing like not having access to Medicare and social benefits when arriving or you may be perceived as being naturally violent or a trouble maker if you arrive from a war-torn country. These preconceptions often create subtle racism and discrimination for those already suffering and experiencing disadvantage.

What do you love doing outside work?

I have lots of space in my life for helping others, whether that be advocacy work and support for the local African and culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) community, working on the Foundation or simply playing piano and singing in the church choir. I am a co-founder and president of the Culturally Diverse Alliance of Tasmania, co-founder of the African Communities Council of Tasmania, a board member for the Tasmanian African Community Forum and Secretary of the Sierra Leone Association of Tasmania. While this is my passion, my favourite time is with family, singing together with

my children, and playing soccer and other sporting activities with them. I’m not a bad soccer player either in our community games I plan for the kids!

Who do you admire? I admire my wife Mavis who supports me to continue with the work I do. She encourages determination and bravery, and for me to transform our past experience into something new that inspires others to live a better life.

Favourite podcast or tv show? During my childhood I missed out on many learning opportunities. Through watching children’s shows with my own children, I get to learn, imagine and have fun alongside them. One of my favourites is Mr Bean. I enjoy laughing and experiencing a positive time which is also very healing.

Secret vice? 3 or 4 sugars in my tea or coffee, which upsets my wife!

What gets your goat? I don’t like being late for meetings, appointments, and work.

What was your first job? Working on the farm picking fruit.

What are your daily news/social media habits? I watch ABC News Breakfast from 6am after attending the gym most mornings. I also enjoy watching programs on Netflix.

Favourite team? Manchester United.

ANGE BOXHALL

Interview: Stephanie Williams

Pic: Puddlehub

Not one to shy away from hard work, and fun along the way, ECHO Festival founder and singer Ange Boxhall shares that the festival’s back for another year.

Where in Hobart do you live? I actually live in Swansea, East Coast!

Why Hobart? I grew up in Hobart and left to explore the world in the late 1990s, not too long after I graduated from Art School. 15 years of living away, between London and Nashville, with a couple of bookended stints in Melbourne, little ol’ Hobart is now the big smoke, ha! I love Hobart and its bars, restaurants, arts and culture.

Tell us a little about your work? I’m a singer songwriter, I founded and produce ECHO Festival and I co-founded and own The Splendid Gin company. Basically music, the arts and booze are my life - and I love it that way!

You’re a business person with your interests in a few areas. How do you decide where to put your attention? I described it to my sisters yesterday - my brain is like a constant meteorite flying through the galaxy exploding with ideas and things to do. Everyday I’m doing 50 things and I focus on whatever is immediate that day. This year, everyday I make time for a swim or a beach walk or something in nature - I’m committing to a life/work balance.

The ECHO Festival returns this year. What are you looking forward to most?

I’m so excited for it all!!! My favourite musician/performer and a mate of mine, Steve Poltz from the US, is our headline music act. I also can’t wait for our key project layna, tapilti muka/River Song with Nita Education, and the swan sculpture and blacksmithing workshops with Pete Mattila. Oh, and Letters to Mother in the Womb Room. And of course the

annual wonderful Native Bounty Feast with gorgeous Chef Megan Quill. Gosh, I can’t wait for ALL OF IT!!!

The festival hasn’t been without issues over the past few years with covid and unfortunate flooding. How does adversity play into the future planning? Indeed, we’ve had our hurdles! But they say what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger… and with the support from our patrons (old AND new!!), we can continue to support the thriving arts and cultural scenes of Tasmania - on one of the prettiest coasts in the world. We’re lucky, I feel lucky and hopefully the reader right now is lucky enough to join us at ECHO.

What do you love doing outside work? My work is outside of my work, haha. But I also love spending time with my husband and my 11 yo girl and our sausage dog, as well as the rest of my family and friends. I love camping and the beach and I love to travel.

Who do you admire? I’ve just played my Joni Mitchell show. I absolutely love her. Honest, personal, real, poetic and immensely talented. She loves painting and nature, too.

Favourite podcast or tv show? Ooh, I really don’t watch much TV and I usually listen to ABC radio local and national. Otherwise I like silence.

Secret vice? Wine!! And kindness, always be kind.

What are you reading now? Truganini. And I just finished Heather Rose’s Memoir.

What gets your goat? People who drive 60 in a 100 zone and people who speed. Just stick to the limit folks! And bullying, that sucks. Otherwise I’m fairly easy going.

What was your first job? So many! Babysitting was perhaps the very first. But I’ve done so many things from a

department store to a photo lab, to being a high school teacher and travelling the world doing market research. But the one consistent job has been as a performer.

What are your daily news/social media habits? I mostly use Instagram and Facebook where I spend too much time. I’m one of those people who sits up in bed cracking up to funny reels!

Your favourite place for… Breakfast: Ooh, in Hobart it would be either Ginger Brown, Born in Brunswick or Berta

Lunch: Kosaten

Dinner: Bar Wa Izakaya or Dana Eating House

Favourite team? The JackJumpers!

Favourite Hobart secret? I’m not giving that away…

Parting words? Come to ECHO Festival, you’ll love it.

The ECHO Festival is on from 31 March - 2 April, 2023. Tickets are on sale 5pm, Sunday 5 February. Head to www. echofestival.com.au

TASMANIAN SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

2023 SEASON HIGHLIGHTS

75TH-ANNIVERSARY GALA

Saturday 25 March, 7.30pm

Federation Concert Hall, nipaluna/Hobart with Chief Conductor Eivind Aadland

TSO 2023 SEASON

TICKETS NOW ON SALE

BRASS IN ST DAVID'S

Saturday 4 March, 7.30pm St David's Cathedral, nipaluna/Hobart

6PM SERIES

New series of hour long concerts

Federation Concert Hall, nipaluna/Hobart

VOICES EN MASSEBRAHMS REQUIEM

Sunday 5 February, 2.30pm

Federation Concert Hall, nipaluna/Hobart with Simon Halsey

MORE MUSIC FROM THE MOVIES

Friday 21 April, 7.30pm Federation Concert Hall, nipaluna/Hobart

1800 001 190 TSO.COM.AU

BITS AND PIECES

age group, all women over 40 are eligible for the program. It only takes 20 minutes and can save your life. Everyone tell all the ladies in your life! Look up BreastScreen Tasmania for more information.

MAP OF TASSIE DEFIBRILLATORS TO BOOST SURVIVAL CHANCES

NEW NEW NEW

Motown Rolls (Shop 207a, Centrepoint Shopping Complex, Hobart) is dishing up fresh filled flatbreads, inspired by the Chinese ‘Mo’. Everything is made in house - think slow cooked spiced lamb, mapo tofu, pork belly and mushroom fillings, topped off with housemade chilli sauce, pickles and fresh salad. The owner’s background as a pastry chef is evident in the sweets cabinet! The city outpost of Capulus is now Cafe Darling (22 Watchorn Street, Hobart). Pop your head in for a good coffee in their new look space. If you’re heading out early, Pilgrim Coffee (54 Liverpool St, Hobart) has recently opened up their dining room again, serving up breakfast and brunch seven days a week. Acai Brothers (20 Magnet Court, Sandy Bay) has landed in Sandy Bay to have your ‘fit girl it girl’ snack after your walk in the sun. If you find yourself in Salamanca/Battery Point, Farzi (17a Castray Esplanade, Battery Point) is open daily for coffee and brunch. Head their way to cap off a market morning! Natty wine bar Lucinda has extended their opening hours, stop by for gougeres and wine from Monday through to Saturday now. Freedom Furniture (174 Elizabeth Street, Hobart) is just around the corner from their old site, reopening on Elizabeth Street last month. If you find yourself with a free Friday afternoon, keep an eye out for notifications from Simplicity Warehouse Party. Every week they have a free party from 4pm at Simple Cider with a line-up of different local DJs. Grab an afternoon spritz, and even better when they are part of a happy hour! Towntime is a Hobart app designed to help you find happy hours and specials around town, helping us all combat the cost of living hey? Spotty Dog Brewery (11 Bender Drive, Hobart) are pouring from their very speccy new build overlooking the Prince of Wales Bay marina. Open from 2pm till late, they have a line up of rotating food trucks until their kitchen opens up. Salento Cafe (69 Hampden Road, Battery Point) has opened recently in Battery Point for your coffee needs.

PSA: IT’S TIME FOR A BOOB CHECK!

The breast screening program, BreastScreen Tasmania is amidst one of their bi-annual call outs to Tasmanian women to get their boobs checked. It’s a free screening mammogram every two years for women aged between 50-74 years to detect any early traces of breast cancer before it can develop. Despite the target

If you were with someone experiencing a cardiac arrest, would you know how to find a defibrillator and how to use it? Ambulance Tasmania has created a smart phone app showing the location of Automatic External Defibrillators (AEDs) across Hobart and Tasmania, with instructions on how to access them. When someone suffers a cardiac arrest, their chance of survival declines by almost 10 per cent per minute, so prompt access to an AED can be life saving, particularly if the person is far from a hospital in a rural or remote area. AEDs can be registered and added to the map online, by calling 1300 979 057 or emailing aed@ambulance.tas.gov.au. In the case of a cardiac arrest the owner of a nearby AED can then be alerted and they can bring their device to the person in need.

CUTE OR CREEPY? YOU BE THE JUDGE

This one was spotted around South Hobart and we are very curious. A romantic gesture or just a little much? If you’re Alladin or the lucky suitor, we would love to know how this went down.

BITS AND PIECES

SHAVE IT OFF, SHAVE IT OFF!

Last month we chatted to Josh Gourlay, a Tasmanian man on the other side of a blood cancer diagnosis. It’s only fitting that we remind you that next month March marks the 25th anniversary of the Worlds Greatest Shave, the Leukaemia Foundation’s most iconic and fun fundraising events. Shave, colour or cut, all proceeds go towards the National Research Program in hope we can continue to accelerate research into finding the cause and solution of blood cancer. In Australia, one person is diagnosed every 27 minutes, one of the nation’s most deadly cancers. Whether you have a mop ready to go or want to get funky with your hair this year, dig deep and get buzzing! Head to www.worldsgreatestshave.com.

BEEKEEPERS BEE-WARE

There were some changes for our backyard and commercial bee-keepers late last year with beekeeping now being considered a ‘regulated dealing’. This means you now need a registration. Whether you have one queen or an army, all beekeepers regardless of hive size need to register under the new Biosecurity Regulations 2022. Beekeepers who were previously registered under the Animal Health Act 1995 are required to re-register under the new Act, and abide by the new rules. Registration is currently free for the first two years, and must be completed by 31 March, 2023. Until the new registration is received, Biosecurity Tasmania will consider those existing voluntary registrations as meeting the compulsory requirement.

KEEP HAWKE-EYED FOR ORANGE HAWKWEED

Hobart residents are urged to keep their eyes out for a particularly problematic invasive weed on kunanyi/Mt Wellington and nearby suburbs. Somewhat similar in appearance to the common dandelion, orange hawkweed is a highly invasive alpine weed from Europe. It competes with native grasses and herbs and if left to its own devices it can overtake entire ecosystems. It’s been found on the mountain before, and any sightings - particularly around The Springs - should be reported to Hobart City Council. You should also report it if you think you have it on your property. Fill out an online form, call 03 6238 2711 during office hours or email a photo of the flower and its location, along with a contact number, to coh@ hobartcity.com.au. Orange hawkweed has distinctive orange flowers and hairy stems and leaves. For help identifying the rogue plant head to www.hobartcity.com.au/ orangehawkweed.

DRINK SPIKING ISN’T COOL…AND IT’S ON THE RISE

There’s reportedly been a rise in drink spiking in Hobart this summer. First, just don’t do this. Second, it’s not a funny

joke to play on a friend or stranger. Third, it’s incredibly dangerous. If you’re a bystander and see it happening, be sure to tell the person or a member of staff straight away, regardless if you think the perpetrator might be friends or known to the victim. If you are a victim of drink spiking, always trust your gut instinct if you suddenly don’t feel like yourself. Don’t blow it off, get water, into a safe place and consider a trip to the hospital regardless of what your reaction might be. Finally, report it to the police. Look after yourself and others while having fun!

HOBART 4TH FOR HIGHEST RENT

New data shows Hobart renters are paying the fourth highest rents in the country. The median weekly rent is now $540, this comes just as the Australian Bureau of Statistics confirmed that Tasmanians still receive the lowest incomes in the nation.

PopTrack’s latest data release revealed Hobart is well ahead of Melbourne, where the median rent is $460 and nudged just ahead of Brisbane, where it is $530. Hobart’s most expensive suburbs are Battery Point, with a median weekly rent of $695, Sandy Bay $658, Dynnyrne $650, Tranmere $650 and Taroona $650. Our rental vacancy rate is currently just 0.6 per cent.

You might be entitled to more than you think.

Call us on 1300 100 for your FREE assessment www.ihls.com.au

You may be entitled to more than you think.

Contact Industrial Hearing Loss Specialists for your Free Industrial Hearing Loss Assessment for entitlements.

• Do you have difficulty hearing speech from the Television or radio?

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

• Do you have trouble hearing in background noise?

If you have answered Yes and you have been exposed to a noisy work environment you may have entitlements to medical and financial compensation.

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

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

Contact Industrial Hearing Loss Specialists for your Free Industrial Hearing Loss Assessment for entitlements.

Do you have trouble hearing in background noise?

You might be entitled to more than you think.

You may be entitled to more than you think.

• Do you have difficulty hearing speech from the Television or radio?

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

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

Hearing Loss Assessment for entitlements. Call us on 1300 100 for your FREE assessment www.ihls.com.au

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

your

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

• Do you have trouble hearing in background noise?

Do you have trouble hearing in background noise? have answered YES and you have been exposed to a noisy work environment, may be entitled to compensation*.

If you have answered Yes and you have been exposed to a noisy work environment you may have entitlements to medical and financial compensation.

US ON 1300

your FREE assessment

You might be entitled to

If you have answered Yes and you have been exposed to a noisy work environment you may have entitlements to medical and nancialfi compensation.

ISE?

Contact Industrial Hearing Loss Specialists for your Free Industrial Hearing Loss Assessment for entitlements.

possible entitlements.

• Do you have trouble hearing in background noise?

background noise?

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

hearing

ears)?

BITS AND PIECES

THUMBS UP

We are taking back the nature strip! You no longer need to apply to council to use your nature strip as a garden so get creative.

Congratulations to Stay Chatty on being around for ten years.

ZIG ZAG TRACK CLOSED

The Zig Zag track on kunanyi/Mount Wellington has once again been closed to the public for restoration work. It’s been one of the main routes to the summit of the mountain for over a century but in that time the elements have taken their toll, and the track needs some serious TLC to combat erosion. A track restoration team have now restarted work they began last year. If you’re headed anywhere near the Zig Zag track take heed of the signage. Access to the Pinnacle for walkers is still available via the Milles Track, the Icehouse Track and the more difficult South Wellington Track. Parking at the Old Hotel site at The Springs is currently reduced to accommodate the restoration teams, and the occasional helicopter use may cause the shortterm closure of nearby tracks and the Old Hotel site. For more info head to www.greaterhobarttrails.com.au

TASSIE’S POPULATION GROWTH WORRIES AS STRAIN SHOWS

As more and more people realise that Tasmania is THE place to be, our population growth looks set to smash the government’s original target increase of 650,000 by 2050. Whilst it’s flattering to be this popular, the pressure on our already strained services is a real worry. The most recent data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics reports our population increased to 571,517 in the year ending June 2022, exceeding

our 2030 population target of 570,000 eight years early. Unfortunately we look likely to fail to meet all six key indicators of sustainable population growth set out by the University of Tasmania’s Institute for Social Change, which include increasing the proportion of people under 15 and having a sustainable balance between people of working age and others.

Our median age of 42 years at the time of the 2021 Census is the oldest in the nation, four years older than the national median of 38, and 20.4 per cent of us are over 65. Despite seeing some positive population growth in the much-wanted 20-34 age group (a demographic historically more likely to move away from rather than to Tasmania), we have an overall structurally ageing population.

So how to manage this substantial growth in a sustainable way and provide the necessary services for all Tasmanians? If you have ideas, the state government is seeking community input on their Refreshing Tasmania’s Population Strategy Consultation Paper. Head to stategrowth.tas.gov.au/ policies_and_strategies/populationstrategy to read the paper, and submit responses by 5 March. The updated strategy, featuring more details about areas likely to see further growth, will be out later this year.

The fresh local berries and apricots are off the charts right now…can’t stop, won’t stop eating them all day, every day.

All the baby turbo chooks! Seems to be a bonza year for them.

THUMBS DOWN

The road closures around the waterfront on days when cruise ships are here.

Scammers lurking on Facebook fan pages.

After the epic traffic spat the January truck rollover on the Tasman Bridge caused, you’d have to wonder how Mac Point stadium traffic might look without adequate public transport.

DO YOUR KIDS HATE THE BUCKET?!

Hurrah for bucket-free times at the Doone Kennedy Aquatic Centre! Not everyone loves the massive bucket water feature right in the middle of the section where the littlest swimmers play. Bucket free times during the school holidays are

Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 6am-11am and Sunday 8-11am, and during school terms Monday, Wednesday and Friday 6am-1pm and Sunday 8-11am. Of course the bucket is a highlight for lots of families, but we’ve read many grateful parents’ positive responses to the announcement, with some calling it “brutal” and “terrifying” and others stating they’d be able to return to the pool now.

SWASTIKA BAN FOR TASSIE

Following the lead of Victoria and NSW, Tasmania is close to criminalising the display of Nazi symbols, including the swastika, when used for hate or causing fear.

Attorney-General Elise Archer said the public display of such symbols is clearly in breach of community and moral standards. The Police Offences Amendment (Nazi Symbol Prohibition) Bill 2023 seeks to amend the Police Offences Act 1935 to prohibit the display of Nazi symbols by a public act and without legitimate public purpose, if the person knows, or reasonably ought to know, that the symbol is a

Nazi symbol. ‘Legitimate public purpose’ includes a display done in good faith for a genuine academic, artistic, religious, scientific, cultural, educational or law enforcement purpose.

Equality Tasmania welcomed the decision but urged the government to go further with more comprehensive hate crime legislation. Equality Tasmania president, Rodney Croome, said LGBTIQA+ Tasmanians have consistently faced harassment using Nazi symbols, especially during the marriage postal survey in 2017. “Currently in Tasmania, only racial hatred can be considered an aggravating factor when judges pass sentences for hate-motivated crimes,” Mr Croome said. “This sends the message that hate against LGBTIQA+ people, or other disadvantaged groups including people with disability, is less serious. All victims of hate crime should have equal protection under the law.”

Mr Croome also said the pink triangle, a symbol the Nazis used to identify and stigmatise gay men in concentration camps, had been reclaimed by the LGBTIQA+ movement as a symbol of its ongoing struggle against stigma and discrimination. “We will ask the Government to exempt the pink triangle from its proposed legislation so we can continue to display it as a symbol of our struggle for a society free from hate”, he said.

RSL’S DROP POKIES ACROSS TASSIE

Tasmanian RSLs have led the way nationally in removing poker machines. RSL Tasmania chief executive, John Hardy, said the decision was made to put the best interests of veterans first. A recent study by Melbourne University found that 40% of Australian veterans with gambling addictions have thought about suicide while one in five have attempted to take their own life. The Devonport sub-branch of the RSL is the last venue with pokies, and they’ve agreed to get rid of them by the end of this year. Anti-gambling campaigners have urged RSL sub-branches and affiliated clubs across the mainland to follow RSL Tasmania’s lead. If you or someone you know needs help, call Lifeline any time on 13 11 44.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR SURFING DAY FOR DISABLED

The Disabled Surfers Association of Tasmania is calling for volunteers for their upcoming surfing days. On February 26 and March 19 the not-for-profit organisation will give their registered surfers a day of joy, freedom and exhilaration but they need your help. They’re looking for about 100 volunteers to assist in the water or on the land, with no experience needed. The Disabled Surfers Association has been operating nationally since 1986, but it’s only been in Tasmania for two years. To get involved, head to their Facebook page or www.disabledsurfers.org/tasmania.

BITS AND PIECES

through to a work interview and employment, arming them with knowledge they can also use to define the direction their life can take, and ultimately reach their full potential - all in a supportive environment,” said Ms Archer.

If you would like to donate quality corporate/professional workwear clothing and other apparel (in excellent, near new or brand new condition) please head to www.hobart.dressforsuccess.org.

GET FOOD SWAPPING ON COMMUNITY FACEBOOK GROUPS

There’s half a million kids with asthma that have just gone back to school and sadly symptoms and hospitalisations for kids seem to occur more too this time of year. It’s a perfect time to prep the little ones by ensuring their Asthma Action Plan is up to date and they have a spacer and reliever medicine ready to hand over to school. Head to Asthma Australia’s Back to School Hub for more information.

BACK ON YOUR BIKE

CLOTHING DRIVE AT NEW ELECTORATE OFFICE

Dress for Success want to see women achieve economic independence by providing a network of support, professional clothing and development tools to help women thrive in work and life. It’s a not-for-profit organisation run by a small team of staff and volunteers - they offer interview and employment styling as well as career support and mentoring for women throughout Tasmania. The organisation runs regular clothing drives so members of the community to donate good quality professional attire and accessories.

Their latest location is in Attorney-General and local Member for Clark, Elise Archer’s new Electorate Office at 119 Sandy Bay Road. “As a Founding Member of Dress for Success and ‘The Dress Circle’ regular giving program, I am always thrilled to support this extremely important cause supporting women into the workforce with appropriate and confidence building apparel in any way I can,” said Ms Archer. “I have seen first-hand how the programs and services supported by Dress for Success empower their clients. Besides physically equipping clients with apparel and accessories, the organisation offers programs that provide women with confidence they can carry

In a digital world, a digital community page is an excellent thing to come out of Facebook - dog memes aside. Whether you have a bounty of produce to share, furniture to give away or perhaps need some help getting a task at home done, Hobart has a bunch of suburb specific Good Karma Network and local community Facebook groups filled with people doing good for others and keeping an eye out. With the cossie livs (cost of living, lol) going bonkers, let us know if you are part of one and get the word out while everyone’s apricots, tomaotes and zucchinis are going ham!

A WIN FOR WHEELCHAIR USERS

Sorell Council has become the first in Tasmania to install permanent beach ramps to help wheelchair users into their sandy, salty swim. Carlton Beach and Park Beach are now home to permanent access ramps from the carpark right down to the water. Sorell Mayor Kerry Vincent said their consultation with ParaQuad Tasmania netted some fantastic suggestions, and all were included, plus more. “Once the route and beach accesses were established we also worked to ensure the onsite accessible parking was compliant and toilet signage implemented. These elements have really enhanced the beach accesses and made them much more widely accessible,” said Mayor Vincent. What a game changer for users of mobility devices and we can’t wait to see more unveiled.

ASTHMA READY FOR SCHOOL

It’s time to dust off your fixie and pump up your tyres because the Bicycle Networks Back on Your Bike program is operating in Hobart offering free sessions to encourage people to get back on their wheels. They’re running free lunchtime and after work sessions, helping riders with braking, slow riding, changing gears and learning basic bike maintenance. “The sessions are designed for people who need more confidence to get riding more often so we welcome a wide range of skill levels, including people who may not have ridden for many years,” says Bicycle Network spokesperson Alison Hetherington. “It doesn’t matter if you want to ride to get to work, to spend more time with your kids or just get more active, these sessions will help.” If you don’t have a bike handy, the Bicycle Network will have a few models to practice on, including e-bikes, mountain bikes and helmets. Register on the Bicycle Networks website for the noon skills session or the 5:15 pm group ride.

BITS AND PIECES

A NEW DAY TO CELEBRATE NEW CITIZENS

As of 2024, the City of Hobart’s January citizenship ceremony will be held on a different day. It is now allowed in the three days prior or after January 26, rather than having to be held on the day itself. A previous policy suggestion in 2017 recommended the citizenship ceremony be moved to an alternative date and with changes to the national Australian Citizenship Ceremonies Code happening earlier this year, every council is now able to choose a day that works best for them.

NEW FOOD VAN HELPS THE HOMELESS IN SORELL + HUONVILLE

As the cost of living and the housing crisis continue to hit, a new food van service has begun providing emergency food relief to those in need in communities near Hobart. The Food Van is a collaboration between Hobart City Mission, the Lions Club of Kingborough, and Lenah Valley’s Italian Day Centre, which donated the

van. The van provides food packs, hot meals, drinks, and access to microwaves in Sorell and Huonville. Volunteers also provide support and can link homeless people and families in need with appropriate support agencies. The Food Van has started as a six month trial and could expand to meet demand in other areas such as New Norfolk and Geeveston.

The van visits the laneway next to Huonville City Mission Op Shops from 2:30 –3:30pm every Tuesday and parked outside the Sorell South Eastern Community Care from 2:30pm – 3:30pm every Thursday. All who need support are welcome and all support is free.

CREATIVE BABY GENDER REVEAL

It’s hard to break new ground when it comes to the old baby gender reveal, but one Hobart couple have managed to do it by spewing many litres of bright blue foam out of a cement mixer on a street corner in Richmond recently. The surprise

reveal was made out of blue toilet cleaner, food colouring and water. In a lovely bonus, they also got engaged in front of the cement mixer.

RAISING BOYS GOES DIGITAL

Hobart (and international!) parenting guru Steve Biddulph wants to continue his mission to raise happier, kinder boys and men and has announced an even easier method to access his wildly successful Raising Boys talk. For $8 and 80 minutes of your time, Steve will talk you through how to raise the best boys you can. “Something I would also really encourage is for P&F groups, community groups, churches, or even just groups of friends, to have screenings, use it as a fundraiser, and watch together. This is the ideal of Parent Ed., to build community and share and generate ideas and feel inspired that we can make a better world through our own kids,” says Steve. The Raising Girls talk will go digital soon too! Head to www. vimeo.com/ondemand/steveraisingboys.

Tasmanian men are being urged to make the right call when it comes to safety in the water as the national drowning toll climbs this summer. At the time of print, more than three-quarters of those who have died over the summer period were male, leading the Royal Life Saving Society to issue the specific warning to blokes. Royal Life Saving Chief Executive Officer Justin Scarr said there were three key things men could do to stay safe. “The biggest

single factor is alcohol. If you’ve had a few drinks, your coordination levels drop and you lose your inhibitions,” Mr Scarr said. “In more than a quarter of all drowning deaths in inland waterways over the ten years to 2020/21, the person who drowned had a blood alcohol content reading of more than 0.05 per cent.”

“If your boat tips, a wave hits you, or the conditions change rapidly you need to be able to think clearly and quickly, and your reflexes and coordination needs to be at their best so you can get yourself to safety. Leave the booze until safely away from the water, look out for your mates and pull them into line if they’re under the influence and thinking about doing something reckless near water such as swimming or boating.”

Mr Scarr’s second tip was to use a lifejacket when out on the water.

“Lifejackets can make the difference between life and death. With the modern, comfortable design of lifejackets which doesn’t inhibit your recreational activities, there is really no excuse not to wear a lifejacket,” he said.

His third tip was to not go alone. “Whenever you’re on, in, or near the water having someone with you to help in the event of an emergency is vital. There are so many factors we can’t control – medical incidents, submerged items, sudden changes in the conditions. Having a mate to help improves the odds of getting home safely.”

Research by Royal Life Saving Society Australia shows that drowning deaths spike on public holidays and long weekends, with the risk of drowning almost doubling. Inland waterways claim more lives than any other location, accounting for 40 per cent of all drowning deaths in Australia.

WATCH OUT! SUMMER SNAKES ABOUT

It’s well and truly snake o’clock around Hobart’s bushy fringes, as Labrador x Dalmatian Dottie, and her human Han, found out recently while walking in Knocklofty Reserve. Dottie, 13, was enjoying her usual walkies in the West Hobart nature reserve when she was barrelled off the track by a friendly young pup and bitten by what turned out to be a tiger snake. After a terrifying reaction and an emergency race to the vet, Dottie has thankfully fully recovered. Han is grateful to all who helped. “A huge thank you to the kind people who helped Dottie and I at Knocklofty - especially the bloke who carried her halfway back to the car when she was emitting at both ends (award for services above and beyond the call of duty!) - it turns out it was a tiger snake and not bullants she had been nipped by, and she wouldn’t have survived but for the support of marvellous vets and vet nurses at emergency and after hours vets.”

“We didn’t leave the house for a few days, I did need to process it, but it hasn’t put me off spending time in natural environments at all. I’d have to have a personality transplant to put me off Knocklofty! We moved two doors away from it because it cut down on my driving there twice daily!”

The very resilient Dottie has come across snakes plenty of times in her years, but this was the first time she’s gotten bitten. “She’s an old girl now, and I’ve seen her with snakes several times over her life. I know some dogs are interested, but she has always walked straight past them so I’ve not worried about her bothering them. We were just very unlucky.”

Dottie is a special pup. Han adopted Dottie from Brightside Farm Sanctuary when she was just 11 months old, with Dottie’s new life including some wonderful service to the community. “She was owned by an animal hoarder with 55 dogs, she had a very traumatic childhood. She also came to work at SASS (the Sexual Assault Support Service in Hobart) as a therapy dog with me for about six years. She’s an amazing girl, much loved by all who meet her.”

Would you know what to do if you suspect your dog has been bitten by a snake? We headed to the RSPCA for their tips. They state that dogs are the most frequently bitten animals, followed by cats, and that a 2021 study in Queensland found that most snake envenomations occur in backyards.

The following are common signs of snake bites in dogs in Australia:

• Sudden weakness followed by collapse

• Shaking or twitching of the muscles and difficulty blinking

• Vomiting

• Loss of bladder and bowel control

• Dilated pupils

• Paralysis

• Blood in urine.

The most important first aid measure you can give your dog is to seek veterinary attention without delay:

• Immediately call your local veterinarian for advice

• Keep calm, and do what you can to keep your dog calm, such as by limiting their movement, as over-excitement can worsen the effect of a snake’s venom.

• Never try to catch or kill the snake. Snakes are protected species and can be lethal so they should only be handled by professionals.

• If your dog has an obvious bite site, apply a firm bandage to the site which can help prevent the spread of venom.

• Don’t apply a tourniquet as this can cut off circulation and destroy tissue.

• It is safest for your dog to be carried to the car (preferably on a stretcher) to minimise movement.

THE MOST CHURCH-LIKE CHURCH ON THE ISLAND

Late last year the Buckland Church, an hour north-east of Hobart, was purchased by the local community. At 177 years old, the historic St John Baptist Church is entering a new era of life.

The 1840s was a significant era of change for the Church of England in Tasmania. In 1846, the first University College in Australia was opened - Christ College at Bishopsbourne and in 1847, the Hutchins School in Macquarie Street was to open. At Buckland, the first archaeologically correct, true early Medieval English Church in Tasmania started construction in 1846 and later consecrated in 1850. After local populations complained to secular authorities in Hobart about the lack of any clergy to service the growing settlement of Prosser Plains (now Buckland), all it took was 25 pounds and the first chaplin in the region Rev F.H.Cox to instigate the construction of a new church for the community of Buckland. It would be a replica of a parish church in England in the village of Cookham Dean, built to the design of architect Crawford Crupps Wegman of Sussex in the Rev Cox’s native county.

While being constructed by convict men, the Reverend conducted his services at the local Police Magistrates office. A different kind of ministry!

Excited for its completion, the then-26 year old Revered Cox proclaimed, “now I can say boldly, and, I trust, without self-congratulation, that the little church of St John Baptist, Prosser Plains, will by far be the most church-like church in the island.” His statement ‘church-like church’ was in reference to contemporary attempts to find the oldest and truest examples of English Gothic, as an expression of an appropriate architecture for the Church of England. Prior to the building of St John Baptist Buckland, churches in Tasmania were typically Georgian boxes, ornamented with Greek revival, Romanesque or ‘Gothick’ ornaments. Bringing a taste of home to Tasmania, Rev Cox transported an iconic stained glass window (the building’s ‘East Window’) from his English home that would be installed in the new church. A feat in itself, the window is estimated to

originate in the 14th century, surviving hundreds of years and sailing across many oceans. The triple chancel window depicts the life of St John and the crucifixion of Jesus across 10 panels and four individual windows sitting above. The right light showing graphic imagery of the beheading of St John is considered the most controversial scene ever depicted in a stained glass window anywhere in Australia. St John’s head is shown being handed to the King’s daughter on a platter with his decapitated neck spurting blood below. Cheery.

The church sits within a stone-walled yard that contains tombs and headstones of many prominent local families and surrounded by now-mature Victorian trees - mainly pines, forming a pinetum, as well as an arbutus and red holly (lamb of God). This setting is now considered very rare and despite its age, the church is in remarkably good condition and resembles the manners of a country church of rural medieval England, transposed to 1840s rural Tasmania.

As a church constructed on half public funds and half from contributions from neighbourhood parishioners, the building came full circle in late 2022 when Friends of Buckland Church (FOBC) collectively purchased the building through a mammoth fundraising project. The group is working to preserve and revitalise the church into a community space for everyone to enjoy. FOBC will also continue to operate the cemetery. FOBC are always looking for physical and financial help to maintain and repair the structure and its surroundings. See how you can help. www.fobc-tas.org.au.

NEW COLLECTION

RUGS, CUSHIONS and ANTIQUE POTS . just arrived .

WHAT’S ON IN HOBART

Get into French folk dancing with Balfolk. It’s on at St James Hall, New Town from 7:15pm, www. folktas.org.

Young LGBTQIA+ Tasmanians are invited to This Way//That Way - Youth Voices for TASPride at The Link Youth Health Service. 1pm.

Hear Tas Literary Award winner

Andrew Darby (author of Flight Lines) plus Eric Woehler talk about migratory birds at Fullers, 5:30pm.

copy The Wooden Boat Festival kicks off today, program info at www.australianwoodenboatfestival.com. au. Plus Tassie’s Avery McDougall gives an author talk about her YA novel, Invisibly Grace, at the Hobart library.

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Happy Regatta Day public holiday, and happy O-week to all the newbies at UTAS.

Learn to make woven baskets with Bindi at the South Hobart Resource Centre, 10am. Book on Humanitix.

Happy Valentine’s Day! Take your love to a lunchtime concert of musicians from across Australia, here for a Summer Ornamentation Academy at Hobart Town Hall. Tix via Humanitix.

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Musica Viva presents Karin Schaupp & Flinders Quartet, Hobart Town Hall, 7:30pm.

Its Bush Playgroup in Collinsvale today for children 6 months to 6 years and their families. Book online in advance.

Learn green woodworking at Neika’s Wisdom Through Wood. You won’t need a dust mask, eye protection or ear protection, there’s not a powertool in sight. www.wisdomthroughwood.com

On the first Tuesday of the month, the Hobart Blues Club comes together at the Duke in South Hobart for an evening filled with all things blues and roots music. Head to their website for a full line up.

Look at me, I’m Sandra Dee! Grease The Musical is on at Hobart College from 7:30pm tonight.

Tasmania takes on WA in the Women’s National Cricket League today at Blundstone Arena from 10am.

Love gin?

Taste some of our best at Variety of Gins at the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens, 5:30pm.

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Funny man

Carl Barron is back on the island, at Wrest Point from 8pm, with his latest show, Skating Rink for Flies.

Practise the tango at Tango Practica, The Polish Club, from 6:30pm tonight.

Burlesque After Dark hits the Grand Poobah for the first show of 2023, and the Hobart Twilight Market is on at Brooke St Pier from 5:30-10pm.

The national ChangeFest 23 starts today at 9:30am at Brighton Civic Centre. Book ahead.

Tom Ballard headlines The Clubhouse at Hobart Brewing Co, 7:30pm.

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G Flip headlines the Great Escape Festival at Mt Field, National Park, alongside King Stingray, Gretta Ray and Kudu Joy. Tickets at www.greatescapefestival.com.au.

Details subject to

SATURDAY SUNDAY

Blooming Church, the community floral festival, continues at St David’s Cathedral with art, music, a book stall, kids’ garden, prizes and more. 9-4:30pm.

Wooden boat and furniture builder Ned Trewartha and seascape artist Jane Flowers’ joint exhibition Elements Shelter is at Salamanca Arts Centre every day until 20th.

FURTHER AFIELD

All month

TedX Hobart is back with a day of ideas from big local thinkers at The Studio, Theatre Royal.

The Italian Club hosts this year’s Festa Italia from 11am in North Hobart. Or, get your kelp on at the 24th International Seaweed Symposium til Friday.

The Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery is worth a visit this month to catch two interesting exhibitions. Lisa Garland’s photographic exhibition Inner Sanctums captures the intimate inner worlds of a unique and eccentric community of Tassie characters, until 14 May. Also catch Jimmy Possum: An Unbroken Tradition, which tells the fascinating story of the enigmatic chair designer and features many of his unique creations. Until the end of May. Free entry.

10-12 February

Five new works for violin and percussion make up Climate Notes by Anna McMichael and Louise Devenish at Rosny Barn.

The Wellness Expo can be found at Princes Wharf 1 from 10am-3pm. Later, the Tasmanian finals of Raw Comedy will be at Jokers Comedy Club, 7:30pm.

Take on the mighty Tasman in the Run The Bridge from 6am at Princes Wharf 1. Head to www. runthebridge.com.au to enter in 1km, 5km or 10km races.

For

www.thehobartmagazine.com.au/februaryevents

Gang of Youths, The Presets and a bunch more bands celebrate Party in The Paddock’s comeback and tenth anniversary at Quercas Park in Carrick near Launceston.

Jessica Gethin on 11 February. Tickets are free but you need to book. Bring a picnic and enjoy the community choir performance from 6pm with the TSO starting at 7pm. The TSO then cruise on down to Cygnet for a Live Sessions gig at the Port Cygnet Cannery on 16 February. Doors open 5pm, the support act starts at 6pm and the TSO are on at 7pm.

11 + 16 February

The TSO hit the road for the Symphony on the Waterfront at Devonport, for a free family-friendly concert conducted by

18 February

Hip hip hooray! The Evandale Village Fair is celebrating its 40th birthday this month. As always, the fair will feature the spectacle of the National Penny Farthing Championships. From 10am4pm, www.evandalevillagefair. com.

2-5 March

Forth hosts the Gathering of the Goddesses Festival, featuring performances, workshops, women’s circles, tarot, yoga, sound healing, special workshops for teens and tweens, food and market stalls and more. www. thegatheringofthegoddesses.com. au.

Got an event coming up in Tassie?

Email us at editor@thehobartmagazine.com.au

Background

even more events in Hobart and further afield this month head to

SCOTT ROTH

Basketball coach Scott Roth took a gamble on Tasmania and seems to have won - having almost taken the JackJumpers to winning their first season, he continues to win fans around the state.

You grew up in Ohio in the US. Was it a fairly normal childhood for you? Yeah, it was normal in the sense that I lived in the suburbs of Cleveland, Ohio. Cleveland’s got about a million people, I was in a suburb of about 25,000 people. My parents own a restaurant, open since 1839. It’s called the Ye Old Stage House. It was an actual stagecoach stop back in the day.

In your playing career you played over 150 NBA games with Minnesota, San Antonio and Utah, before playing internationally in Turkey, Greece and Spain. How did you get started in basketball as a kid? When I was little, six, seven years old, I was playing everything. As you got older you and your friends gravitated to one more than the other. I played all the sports growing up - baseball, football, basketball. And eventually I just leaned towards playing basketball as I got a little bit older and ended up being halfway decent at it and stayed with that. I stuck with basketball a little bit longer, just because it was indoors! American football is outside and there’s a shorter season and you need people to have to practice with. All I needed was a ball and the basket. I could be by myself and go anywhere.

How did it feel once you hit that NBA level? I was just trying to be the best I could be at what I was doing. I had no idea that at college time I would be one of the number one players in the United States and could go to college anywhere

I really wanted to. It was then, at that point, I dreamed about the NBA. I knew it was a very long shot and my hope was just to get better and have a chance to play in Europe. That’s exactly what ended up happening. Through some work and determination and a little luck being in the right place at the right time, I got into the NBA. I was lucky enough to have a short, but good career there and then back to Europe again. I played for 12 years professionally and at all different places and venues and all over the world.

You’ve also coached at the highest levels of basketball across the world. Was coaching always your post-playing career plan? Growing up, I was always the captain or the guy organising the games when I was in my neighborhood. I knew I was going to coach. Once I retired from playing, I did a few jobs that allowed me to figure out which way I was going to go. My former college coach allowed me to take a sabbatical with him for six months and I saw the college basketball coaching from the inside out. Eventually, I chose to see if I could get in the NBA, which again, I was lucky enough to make the right contacts. Then started working my way through the NBA and now I’ve been coaching and player scouting for 23 years.

Before the JackJumpers, you were assistant coach with the Perth Wildcats. Was Australia a place you had considered before then? I knew three or four years ago that I was about done

with the NBA. I wanted to try something different and the political side of the NBA was about done in my eyes. So I started following some other leagues. I didn’t care for Europe as much and I started following Japan and the NBL in Australia. Both those two at that time were slowly on the rise. I knew the quality of life over here was tremendous. My daughter had gone to Queensland University in Brisbane for a semester, as an exchange student for college. Then again, by some dumb luck during my last season with the Timberwolves, I got offered to be the assistant coach for the Chinese national team with former NBA player Yao Ming. He contacted me to do that. I was in China for five months getting ready for the World Championships and an Australian selectors team came over to tour with us, to help us practice. I ended up meeting Trevor Gleeson from Perth.

I thought I was done when I finished the World Championships. I went home to relax and take my first time off in a lot of years. The phone rang about a month later and it was Trevor out of the blue. I basically said, “I’m just relaxing and enjoying life.” And he goes, “Well, I have a coach that had an emergency and I need you. I need help. Can you get over here?” Three days later I was flying to Perth and lucky enough to win a championship. And that’s when COVID started.

This JackJumpers job became available at the end of that season. Well, at least the rumors of this team being added as an

Interview: Stephanie Williams Pictures: Supplied

expansion team. It ticked a lot of boxes. I didn’t know it would tick as many as it did when I got here but my sole focus was to get this job if I could. But COVID had struck the world and there was a lot of crazy stuff happening and I got the job.

COVID meant that you didn’t see family for quite some time. How was that time for you and are they here now? I hadn’t seen my wife in over 14 months and my daughter in 18 months. I was ready to quit multiple times. And right before the season started, I was about ready to go home. I missed a lot as you can imagine. Weddings, anniversaries, deaths.

I was torn between my obligation of being home and the people here I had asked to sacrifice to come here to start this franchise with me. It was quite emotionally and mentally straining. Eventually my wife and daughter got over here once the borders opened up for a brief time. And then my wife’s been with me for about five months and my daughter was here for Christmas.

I was good every day from probably six in the morning till about three. And then when three o’clock came, I just started crashing and burning. I was going to bed around seven at night just to get the day over with. And that turned into not weeks, but months of that kind of pattern. I was not doing well.

I’d liken you to the conductor of an orchestra. Normally, a coach would have only the players as the musicians that they had to bring together as one. But being an inaugural team, you also had to get the whole of Tasmania to play along with you guys. How did you do that? When I started to put this team together, we created the Bloodlines - a continuing group that’s growing - of coaches and players that were lying dormant here in the state for the last 30 years throughout the entire state. They had really created the history of basketball in Tasmania. I created the Bloodlines group to reinvigorate the history of Tasmanian basketball. I spend a

tremendous amount of time traveling back up to the north and the northwest, to make sure I’m there and meeting people and making sure the brand is growing.

Our players hit a nerve - the style of play and who they were as people. And the rest I would say is history to some degree. We wanted to build a culture that was humble and hungry, ‘defend the island’ as our motto, to make sure that we were inclusive in what we were trying to do and how we presented ourselves around the state and being vulnerable and passionate about what we were doing. The underdogs that were swinging above their belt and trying to have a second chance at something or just needed a break. I’m in that mode myself and my entire career people doubted me every step I’ve gone. I was looking for those same characteristics, which I think resonated with Tasmanians.

In 2022, you signed on for three more seasons after taking the guys to the final last year. Is there an unfinished business for you? It’s not so much unfinished business. No one in their wildest dreams thought we were going to the finals last year. My mindset is that we want to win championships, we want to do all those things. But for me, I’m trying

to create something that’s long lasting and sustainable that will be here long after I’m gone

I heard you say in an interview that you’ve found yourself here, that you can breathe and be yourself. Can you tell me a little bit about that feeling? For me, especially coming from the NBA and then a little bit in Europe and here and there, you’re always trying to act like something that you probably aren’t. You’re always being judged and moulded and pushed in directions that maybe are not who you naturally are. When I got here, and got this job, I made a promise to myself that I would be myself and speak my mind and do what I thought was right, and the consequences would be the consequences, good or bad. I had no idea about Tasmania other than a new start for myself and my family.

Tasmania has opened up their arms and it’s been an incredible relationship that we’re under with this state. I’ve had to be quite humble and keep my head down because people are always thinking an Australian should have a job like this. And I don’t disagree. My emotions during that COVID time probably made me even more vulnerable to people - I was crying and laughing and jumping around!

How does it feel when you’re on the side of the court, pacing up and down with the game only somewhat in your control? We do the work during the week. For me, it’s about just being engaged and knowing that they know that I’m all in for them, but they also know that I’ll kick their butt if I need to. I’ll have my say and do what I think is right to hold themselves to the standards of our culture and holding them accountable. There’s that give and take as a coach of praising, but you also have to be stern enough and gain the respect of the players to allow them to be coached. They’ve been fantastic with me allowing me to coach them. Even in moments when a lot of teams would’ve snapped back at the coach or said some crazy things, our guys are just always receptive to the good stuff and the bad stuff for me when I get after them. On the sideline, I’m just trying to remain myself but calm and allowing them to play. I get excited when I need to get excited.

What does downtime look like for you?

I’m a cigar smoker. So if I can smoke a cigar at any moment, that’s what I do. I smoke a cigar two hours before every game out the back, anywhere we go on the road or at home. I smoke before tip off, I’ll just take a relaxing break. I also like to go on some walks and go to dinner with my wife in town. I really want to travel a little bit more throughout the state. I just haven’t had the time to do

some of that stuff, but just relax more than anything. I’m pretty laid back in general and just watch a little TV and just be myself. Nothing crazy!

How much does that local support get the team home? The fan base is still growing and we have work to do around the state to continue to grow that fan base. But inside the building, it’s a great credit to our organisation and the players to sell the building out in 26 minutes this year, which is unheard of in Australian basketball. To have it the hottest ticket in the state is an incredible achievement. Now it’s just a matter of can we keep them there? The fans have been off the charts. They want us to win all of our games, but I think they’re more passionate about us fighting and scrapping and sticking up for Tasmanians. Their passion is something that any sports person would draw upon. I wish we could play more games there and it was slightly bigger. But it is exciting to know that every night we walk in that building, it is completely packed and you can’t get a ticket.

With so many leagues and players across the world, how do you scout for new talent? I’ve been all over Europe and I know everyone in the NBA. I know what the scouting reports are and how to find what I need. We continually track players and our coaches do a

tremendous job of staying up to date on everything that’s happening around the world. They’re very familiar on what kind of players I like and what I’m looking for when we’re trying to sign players, especially import players. It’s just a constant deal of working your contacts and networking. I have a really big net I can throw around the entire world really to find out about things that I need to. I’ll use that again when the season’s over with, as we start to go through the process of retooling the team.

Will there be a JillJumpers? I think there will be at some point. I wouldn’t be surprised if that doesn’t happen in the next two or three years. The big thing is having the practice facilities and hopefully that gets across the line very soon with our facility being put in over by the stadium, by MyState Bank Arena. But I think it’s a logical next step, ‘cause we’re here to inspire all the young kids to want to be JackJumpers or want to be involved in sports. I think it’ll happen.

What’s next for you? I have two more years on my contract. I’m all in on trying to build something that’s going to be sustainable. It’s a long time to be away from the States and my daughter at times, which plays on me. I plan on being obligated to my contract and then seeing where that takes me once that’s over with.

ARTOSAURUS

Pictures:

We caught up with Artosaurus Gallery and Studios Co-Directors Sara Lindsay and Rhonda McLaughlin to learn about their all abilities art workshop.

What was the gap Hobart’s art community was missing that you felt Artosaurus could fill? We wanted to create experiences that were accessible to artists of all abilities along with artist pathways. We wanted a level playing field for everyone including women, First Nation people, people with disabilities, the queer community and more. Our studio programs offer a range of learning opportunities and the gallery and shop showcase the work of emerging and experienced local artists.

We run separate programs for adults and children however we try to make sure our classes are suitable for people of all abilities and experience. At times we may focus something specifically for beginners or more experienced artists but this will always be in the class description. Artosaurus holds weekly community classes after school-hours, a Kids Club

on the weekends and a resident artist program for NDIS participants on weekdays. During the school holidays we hold a series of creative community workshops and classes for kids and adults with the aim that they can take these skills home and progress their practice.

Why is navigating commercialisation of artwork difficult for emerging artists?

One of the toughest things for an artist is to share their work publicly, as this necessarily invites comment and critique. It’s actually so much more than just making fantastic work that people want to own. People want the story of the person, the work and the making. Exhibiting work in a commercial gallery requires a high level of professionalism and business skills, even preparing work for sale in a shop requires packaging, promotion and branding.

There is a big difference between art making, exhibiting and selling work. There’s so much invisible labour and we live in a culture where art is still not highly valued. Through engaging with the community we hope to help educate the community on the value of art and the value of artists, and help change the conversation. We are doing it in so many ways.

Do you have resident teachers or visiting artists teaching their craft? We have a mix of both. We encourage a broad community of artists to become part of Artosaurus and the more specialised and specific, the more we want to talk to you! Some of the best received classes have been Maurilio DNA’s comic and anime

drawing classes. Maurilio is an internationally known animator who has worked on Disney’s The Princess and the Frog, has published his own comics and also teaches skills in Procreate.

We also run the traditional painting and drawing classes for the broader community and we are excited to offer from our high calibre artist and educator Yvette Watt. We have artists specialising in zine-making, surface design, ceramics, woodwork, jewellery, textiles, puppet-making, photography and various types of printing.

What do you want to bring to the Hobart community this year? Since we began stripping paint off the walls a year ago, every day is different, heartwarming and inspiring. Every few days we have an experience that resonates and affirms our core values.

Our resident artists, community of emerging and established artists and wider community of friends and family really make Artosaurus Gallery and Studios who we are today. We want to bring the value of art and the value of local artists to the Hobart community who provide new ways of seeing the world.

We hope that by Artosaurus providing the wider community art classes, workshops, NDIS resident artist places, exhibitions and a gallery gift shop that we can create meaningful art experiences for artists and art appreciators of all abilities.

Head to www.artosaurus.org for more information.

Interview: Lily Whiting

Artosaurus

LOVE, ACTUALLY.

Words: Annia Baron

Once there was a man who felt the world deeply. As a boy he wept when he saw others being mistreated or enduring hardship. All he wanted to do was help and knew in his heart that he would somehow change the world. But his biggest dream? True love. See, he wasn’t like the others. As he watched his friends chase money, accolades, and things, he quietly trusted that his actions of ahimsa, and the pursuit of a humble, benevolent life would lead him to live out his wish.

He was incredibly wise. He saw beyond what most could see. But everywhere he looked, his eyes were pierced with falsehoods attempting to malaise his mind. “You’re missing out.” “We’ll show you how to be rich and successful.” “All the women will love you if you look like this, smell like that or wear that suit.” “Have this job, buy these things and you’ll be fulfilled indefinitely.”

Every year corporations spend billions of dollars to understand our psychology so they can market products and services to us. They employ highly educated specialists in neuroscience and human behaviour to gain control over our emotions. They know how to manipulate our desire for belonging and they devise ways of triggering scarcity and self-doubt. “Look what everyone else is doing. Don’t they look so happy? Don’t you wish you were like us too?”

The goal is to turn you into someone who relies on them to feel good. This way, you’ll be a life-long lover of the stuff they dangle in front of you. They think you’re less intelligent than they are. They assume you’ll be dazzled by the smoke and mirrors instead of knowing that what really matters is love, actually. And love

doesn’t need stuff. Love is inextricably linked to simplicity – acts of consideration, understanding, and the freedom to feel heard and be seen. This is what we seek. This is what we know to make us happy. Ask anyone what they prefer for Valentine’s Day: another thing covered in red love hearts and plastic roses or feeling deeply loved, sharing enriching experiences that ooze joy and connection with the ones we care for the most.

But you, who is evolving into an awakened lover – of yourself, others, and the world – are of course their worst nightmare. You’re the one they lose sleep over. They worry you’ll be revolutionary and influence others to do the same; to choose love over shiny objects, to act with kindness over conformity, to be free-thinking instead of fearful. Because as more people follow their heart, the happier and more cohesive the world will be. Inevitably, less brainwashing and indoctrination will exist.

Not impervious to the challenges of living in a modern world, the young boy grew into a man and earnestly kept to his path. He prioritised his mindset and cared for his heart space, training himself to see beyond what was shown, and put energy into the experiences that cultivated inner

happiness for himself and others. Above all, he tried his best to treat every being with respect and appreciated his blessings...and his lessons.

Today, he lives out his dream. Those who know him can feel his aura. Those who hear him speak absorb his wisdom. He spends his days watching his happy wife dancing in the garden and his playful baby boy admiring vibrant flower petals. He feels rich beyond measure and wishes every man and woman to experience the same sort of love.

Whether partnered or not, true love begins with cherishing yourself, and then spreading that love out into the world. True love is about following your dream, no matter how different it may seem to the cool and normal that’s aimed at penetrating our psychology.

Keep evolving. Keep loving. Keep following your path.

Annia Baron is a Clinical Psychologist & Mindset Coach. Want to learn more about mindset tools to create a life you desire and deserve? Get in touch on Instagram @anniabaron or visit www.remindyourself.com.

Join us, as we work to make Tasmania the healthiest island on the planet.

At St.LukesHealth, we’re committing to make Tasmanians healthier, by picturing a world with Tasmania on top. We know there’s a health problem to solve, and as a local not-for-profit, we’re going to be part of the solution. We’re imagining a healthier Tasmania – one where people are informed, empowered and confident about their health and their choices.

Scan to see how we’re making it a reality.

how a change of outlook can change your outcome.

BLUE ZONE EATING

Words: Serena Hodge, Accredited Practicing Dietitian (APD)

Ever wondered what eating pattern it takes to live to 100 years old? The answers might just lie in the diet of those living in ‘Blue Zones’ around the world.

On a quest to uncover the key lifestyle factors that promote longevity, Dan Buettner (Founder of Blue Zones) assembled a team of researchers to identify locations around the globe with the highest concentrations of centenarians (which is a fancy way of referring to people who live to 100 years or older). Five specific locations were identified and collectively coined as the ‘Blue Zones’. Making the short list: Sardinia, Italy; Ikaria, Greece; Nicoya, Costa Rica; Loma Linda, California and Okinawa, Japan.

Once the Blue Zones were established, further research was conducted to understand the lifestyle factors within these regions that might explain longevity. Nine specific lifestyle traits were shared among all Blue Zone centenarians, coined as the ‘Power 9’. No surprise, many of these were related to what they ate. So what can we learn from the eating patterns of the world’s longest-lived? Below, I share four top tips.

1. Pack your plate with plants

Dietary patterns among Blue Zones are 95-100% plant-based. With staples including beans, dark leafy greens, root vegetables, seasonal fruit, nuts, seeds, olive oil and whole grains. Maximising plant foods in your diet boosts your intake of fibre, antioxidants and essential vitamins and minerals needed for optimal body function. It also leaves less room for refined and processed foods, naturally lowering your intake of unhealthy fats, salt and added sugar (which is recommended to be limited to seven teaspoons per day). Thinking of making the switch to plant-based eating? Check in with a dietitian before you get started. Often, I

see clients following plant-based diets who are at risk of nutritional deficiency. This is due to lack of appropriate substitutes for animal-based proteins or dairy foods.

2. Minimise meat consumption

On average, Blue Zone centenarians only consume meat five times per month, with one serve equating to the size of a deck of cards. Fish is consumed in moderation; they average a palm sized portion three times per week (local and ethically sourced). Reducing meat consumption lowers your dietary intake of saturated fat, an unhealthy fat that can raise cholesterol levels and increase risk of cardiovascular disease. Regular fish consumption provides your body with healthy omega-3 fats, which can have protective effects against heart and brain health.

3. Swap out the sugary drinks

Blue Zone centenarians keep it simple with drinks. Coffee, tea, water, and wine. That’s it! Regular coffee consumption may reduce age-related cognitive decline; green tea is praised for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties; and moderate alcohol consumption (1-3 small glasses of red wine per day) is linked to longevity. With the key word being ‘moderate’ here – because, no, it doesn’t work the same way if you save the 14 glasses of wine to binge-drink on the weekend instead.

4. Follow the 80% rule

Okinawans in Japan practice Hara Hachi Bu - the Confucian mantra that translates to ‘eating until you are 80% full’. The remaining 20% of fullness is where we have the potential to consume energy above our body’s requirements. This can contribute to excess weight gain; a wellknown risk factor for developing chronic disease and increasing overall mortality risk. Another way to think about this would be eating until you feel comfortably full (rather than stuffed).

Non-diet ways to boost your chances at longevity

Food aside, key lifestyle factors associated with longevity among Blue Zone

residents include regular incidental exercise; cultivating a sense of life purpose and belonging; developing social connectedness within the local community; and building strong relationships with family and friends. Practicing regular stress-management (referred to as ‘downshifting’) is also praised for its positive link with longevity. How do Blue Zone centenarians practice downshifting I hear you ask? Well… Ikarians take a nap, Loma Linda Adventists pray, and Sardinians do happy hour (you can find me in Sardinia).

While our (convenience-driven) egotistical modern-day society may not allow us to fully embody the lifestyle of a Blue Zone centenarian, there are certainly things to be learnt from this way of living. Simple steps you could take towards eating for longevity include scheduling a weekly meat-free dinner, kickstarting your own veggie patch, or opting for a homemade dinner with a glass of red instead of a boozy Saturday night out this weekend.

Always consult your doctor or relevant health professional before starting any major dietary or lifestyle change. This article is not intended to provide medical or individualised dietary advice.

Fun fact: The term ‘Blue Zones’ was chosen because during the original research, they drew blue circles on the map when searching for the locations.

Growing up in Devonport in the 90s I saw the Spirit of Tasmania every second day. There’s a distinctive and familiar hum that you can still hear and feel, as the boat slips down the skinny Mersey River.

I’ve watched that boat come in from many angles, but never like the view from the new Novotel Devonport. On our first night in the hotel, I’d just gotten our boys settled into bed when I noticed the boat approaching. Torn between pretending nothing was happening and wanting them to see the boat…nostalgia won out and up they got to watch the boat, adorned with festive lights, sail down the river.

We’re away on a “city break”. I appreciate that Devonport is definitely not a big city, but a little getaway toward the end of the school holidays was exactly what we needed. Beach time, nice food, a few fun activities and a change of scenery.

The Novotel opened late last year and is just across the road from the river. It’s central spot is within walking distance of much of Devonport - right next to the Mall, a lovely walk to the Bluff and near a few pubs and restaurants. One side of the building’s windows face the sea - a direct view down the river out to Bass Strait. Our room is cheery and bright, with a comfortable bathroom and two queen beds.

NOSTALGIA AND NEW MEMORIES

Words: Stephanie Williams

The Bluff is our first stop, to stretch the legs and have a quick dip to wash off the car ride. The water is noticeably warmer than down around Hobart and we spend much longer than expected in the water. The rockpools of my childhood beckon and I revel in showing my boys the bounty to be explored inside. Spying the surf club back up off the beach, we decided to book in for dinner at Mrs Jones for the next night.

Laneway (2/38 Steele Street) is tucked away on Rooke Lane, a five minute walk from our hotel. We head there for a

late morning coffee and an early lunch. Having been around since 2011, Laneway has led the way in bringing good coffee to the city. I recall as a kid my mum ordering an instant coffee in cafes here, it’s certainly come some way since then!

After sharing a couple of hearty salads, we’re ready to hit the Don River Railway. Back in my days here, you’d hear the trains and if you were lucky, see one letting off steam near Coles Beach. Having sold it into my kids as a big steaming train, it was a slight let down to see a less exciting regular train on

the tracks but it was a lovely, short ride through the bush from Don to the beach. Back at the station, we had a look at the historic displays in the museum.

We booked an early dinner to catch the late afternoon view from Mrs Jones, and to get the kids fed. Knowing it was a little “fancy”, I was slightly worried about how it was going to go, but immediately we were put at ease. The wine list was excellent and we got started with some kingfish sashimi ($29) with coconut and lime dressing, and the kids enjoyed a pasta ($18) and an eye fillet ($22), with chips AND veggies. Hurrah. My fish of the day ($40) was served upon a delicious

bed of roasted cauliflower, blistered tomatoes, and raisin and caper compote. My husband enjoyed the crispy pork belly ($40) with roasted onion and celeriac puree, spiced red cabbage and cider jus. The freshly baked brioche ($11) served with whipped tomato, fennel and chilli butter is a superb accompaniment to both our meals - I’m still dreaming of that butter. While my husband would usually gravitate toward a chocolate dessert, we were sharing on this night and I won out, ordering the coconut and white chocolate cremeux ($18), which was served with a punchy lychee granita. An outstanding finish to a beautiful meal.

Bookending our getaway with a beach trip, we spend our last morning at Coles Beach. We popped into the Devonport Farmers Market (86A Gunn St, Devonport) on the way for a coffee and breaky bite. It’s held on Saturday mornings from 8:30am to 12noon at the Showgrounds. My omelette was quickly and perfectly cooked, and the kids enjoyed freshly made pretzels and egg and bacon rolls. After our ocean dip, we felt ready to head home, refreshed and full of new memories and future nostalgia.

The writer stayed as a guest of Novotel.

TIS THE SEASON TO TOMATO

Words: Lily Whiting

It was a slow start to the tomato season this year. Thankfully with less rain and more sunshine, tomatoes are aplenty now thanks to producers who started their planting last July.

Tasmania has become home to an array of professionals turned planters. Christie Lewis from Old Orchard Farm swapped slick city life for the sometimes slightly damp small-market gardening lifestyle instead. On what was an empty paddock in 2019, Old Orchard Farm now produces a wide range of vegetables and herbs on their 1300m² slice of Huon Valley paradise. As understanding and interest in our food practices grows, Christie and partner Alex are part of a new wave of small-scale farmers championing permaculture, no-dig, and organic practices. They avoid chemicals and rely on creating healthy plants and an ecosystem that counters pest pressure.

Christie and Alex have always wanted to feed their community and themselves through their weekly vegetable boxes, local retailers and close chef friends, but they also see the importance of taking care of the local wild population too. While keeping the wallabies out is a non-negotiable, birds and insects (the good kinds) are able to feast on an array of fruit trees, perennial herbs, edible flowers, and native plants planted on their garden border - on the mutual agreement all parties share of course. Starting their tomato season in July, two 15-metre long polytunnels provide long-lasting protection against the vagaries of the weather and extend the growing season.

A tomato timeline

The first seeds are sown into punnets in July using heat mats in Christie’s laundry. After a few weeks, they’re pricked out and potted up and put back on heat mats to stay warm.

In mid-September, space is made in the polytunnel and the first of the seedlings

are planted. Last year, during a very long, cold, and wet Spring that fed into a slow start to summer, Christie’s polytunnel was beginning to fill up with tomato plants, later followed by cucumbers, eggplants, capsicums, basil and a rogue zucchini (a reminder to be careful with plant labels!).

Over the coming weeks and months much love and care went into ensuring they were watered, fed, pruned, and trellised. Christie uses hooks and twine In the polytunnel, clipping tomato plants to string to allow them to climb tall and strong. This allows for good ventilation and in return minimises the risk of disease where harmful spores can lay ready in the soil. This method also makes pollination easy – by simply flicking the twine - when there aren’t many pollinators buzzing around early in the season.

The tricky weather experienced in southern Tasmania during spring and the start of summer has meant that for many growers, tomatoes are only now beginning to ripen. For Christie, however, growing in a polytunnel means she’s now able to include them in her veg box subscriptions and offer them to local chefs, and that when she now opens the tunnel doors suddenly, little red, orange and yellow bulbs are everywhere!

Eating your tomatoes

While taste testing straight from the vine

is hard to go past, sliced tomatoes on fresh bread with a sprinkling of salt and a drizzle of olive oil are a close second for Christie and Alex. For something marginally fancier, a caprese salad of sliced tomatoes with mozzarella or Soyoyoy’s Unfeta’d, basil and olive oil is a simple way to hero the humble tom.

Sprout Tasmania is a not-for-profit, volunteer organisation working to support local producers. For more information, head to sprout.org.au.

OVEN DRIED PRESERVED TOMATO

(Recipe from Cornersmith Picklery)

Ingredients:

2kg tomatoes

150ml of olive oil or vegetable oil

1 tsp salt

1.5 cup vinegar

3/4 cups water

1/3 cup sugar

Optional flavours: garlic, peppercorns, thyme, oregano, basil stems etc

Method:

Preheat your oven to the lowest temperature it can go. You can also use a dehydrator if you have one. Wash your tomatoes and half or quarter depending on size. Place on a baking tray lined

with greaseproof paper or on a wire rack over a baking tray and sprinkle with salt. Put into the oven. For ovens set to 100 degrees, the tomatoes can take 7-9 hours to dry. Ovens set on 65 degrees can take 10-12 hours. If your oven feels too hot, you can wedge the door open with a wooden spoon to increase airflow. You want your tomatoes to be mostly dried, but maintain some plumpness.

Let the tomatoes cool completely while you sterilise your jars (Google is good for sterilisation tips). Make the pickling brine by putting the vinegar, water and sugar into a small saucepan over low heat. Stir to dissolve the sugar, bring to a simmer and then turn off the heat.

Add in any additional flavours to your jars, and with small tongs or clean hands, carefully pack the dried tomatoes into the jars. Pour the hot

brine over ¾ of the tomatoes, lightly press on tomatoes to remove air bubbles, making sure tomatoes are completely submerged. Fill the remainder of the jar with oil before sealing well.

Store in a cool dark place for up to 6 months. If the weather is particularly hot, store in the fridge.

WILLING BROTHERS

390 Elizabeth Street, North Hobart

Words: Stephanie Williams

If this was my neighbourhood bar, I’d be a pretty happy local resident.

We had lofty ambitions of going out for a bite to eat and then catching a movie. We checked the film schedule and knew we had just over two hours to kill. When the waiter at Willing Brothers said they were a little understaffed and it might be a slower experience, we were in. This was the perfect spot to while away a couple of hours. Sitting at a kitchen or bar is always fascinating to me - watching as chefs and bar staff prepare meals and drinks. At Willing Brothers we had a box seat on a busy night for the duo working the room.

We started with a glass of Utzinger Wines Riesling ($17/gl), a lovely drop from the western side of the Tamar Valley, made with minimal intervention. It was superb and paired beautifully with the sardine escabiche on toast ($6 each) - silvery chunks of oily fish on thin toast, dressed with a vinegar marinade. I’m a big fan of Samantha Connew’s Stargazer wines from Tea Tree just outside Hobart so I jumped at the opportunity to enjoy her Rada Pinot Meunier ($16/gl) - it was a light red, but served perfectly chilled.

The one chef is clearly under the pump servicing an almost-full venue, but is moving effortlessly while on full display in the very open kitchen right in front of us. The cheddar beignets ($14) are fluffy, cheesy puffs and are the perfect sideshow to our wines.

We venture outside Tasmania to the Barossa and sip on the Small Fry Isolar Reisling Roussane ($17/gl), perfectly timed for our bigger dishes to arrive. The risotto ($26) was as good as I remembered (which was excellent!) this time with asparagus rather than cacio e pepe, and the fettucine with spanner crab, chilli and dill ($29) filled us up.

MONTHLY MUST TRY

MoTown Rolls - Centrepoint Arcade, Hobart

After hearing about a new lunch spot opening near our office, we ventured to try their flatbreads and filings. Based on the Chinese concept of mo rolls, you choose the filling you’d like in your roll. On this day, we had the option of mapo tofu, mushrooms, crispy pork belly or slow roasted spiced lamb. I chose the last option - and had my flatbread smeared with chilli oil and filled with the lamb, pickles, radish and spring onion. Delicious! A perfect size for a lovely light lunch.

EXHIBITION AT ROSNY FARM

10 February - 5 March

FIVE VIEWS:

Five Views presents new work that explores representations of the natural world from five very different artists’ perspectives; Ellyn Anderson (painting), Grace Gladdish (printmaking), Paul Hoelen (photography), Tom Polacheck (photography), and Lorna Quinn (painting).

11am–5pm Wednesday - Sunday Schoolhouse Gallery Rosny Farm, Rosny Hill Road, Rosny Park Ph: 6217 9607

www.clarenceartsandevents.net

CITY OF HOBART GRANTS PROGRAM 2023 APPLICATIONS ARE NOW OPEN

If you have an idea that could make a real difference for the people of Hobart why not apply for one of our community, creative or event grants?

Applications close at 3 pm on Monday 6 March 2023

To find out more and to apply, visit hobartcity.com.au/grants or phone 03 6238 2132

DO YOU HAVE A BACK TO SCHOOL RITUAL?

Thousands of Hobart parents are settling their kids into school for the very first time this month. It’s one of life’s biggest transitions, and Hobart mother and writer Sally Lewry has put together a book to help others prepare their kids - and themselves - for a smooth sailing through it and other big changes.

As a widow and sole parent, Sally, who goes by the name Bard Lewry in her professional life, has navigated times of transition in many ways as she raises her young children. She has found that creating rituals has helped immensely.

Your kids are now in grade 1 and grade 3, but how was your very first 'first day of school' as a mum? It was an emotional day. I was so proud of my son and excited for him, but it was also a huge letting go which required trust; mainly of the school and education system, but both my sons started school with such confidence, which certainly made it easier for me! I do feel we underestimate what a huge rite of passage it is for young people and their families and the way in which the experience is framed and met is crucial.

What are some things that have made that transition easier for your children?

Creating a ritual for my boys to support them in this rite of passage was a great support. I wanted to create an embodied experience that would offer a perspective on learning that acknowledged and celebrated the innate wisdom that lies within us all, outside of institutionalised ideas of knowledge, education and self.

While school is important it is just one branch of knowledge on our ever-evolving tree of wisdom, which is already laden with other branches; this is the metaphor that feeds into the heart of the ritual I created. This perspective really helped to take the pressure off and was a

great tool which enabled myself and my boys to reflect on their personal qualities, strengths and idiosyncrasies, to see how much wisdom they already held as they entered formal education.

What do you do to support yourself through the back-to-school transition?

Connecting with the more-than-human world is a fundamental value in our family. This connection continues to offer all of us grounding, companionship and perspective which is incredibly supportive. Community is also key, we have finally found our village here in Hobart and we couldn’t be happier!

Why did ritual become so integral to your parenting journey? I am a widow and have been a sole parent for almost my whole parenting journey, which has been an incredibly tough, yet expansive initiation! Ritual has been fundamental in navigating death and grief, and in continuing to celebrate and honour my life with my beautiful boys. My relationship to ritual was born out of a very profound and powerful place and it was from here that I began to offer and share what I know in various contexts including end of life. Finding new ways to weave ritual into my everyday life with my boys however, is often where I find the most inspiration, growth and creativity!

Why do you think we've lost touch with rituals over time? This is a big question that certainly warrants a whole conversation! But I would say that in part we have lost touch with ritual overtime because we have become so focused on the external and in losing touch with our internal life and landscape, ritual has fallen away. We are in a time of great chaos, growth and change and I am seeing a re-membering and a re-turning to ritual, as people are in need of something bigger to meet and

support this change collectively, which is the very function of ritual.

For someone who feels completely disconnected from these kinds of things... how would you suggest they start? My suggestion is not to think too much about it! I believe ritual and ceremony are an innate part of being human and we merely have to reconnect with this part of ourselves. What did you love doing as a child? Start there. Our inner children hold great wisdom and children experience the world largely through play and improvisation, which are key in creating ritual and ceremony. Watch your children, listen and learn from them and create with them.

Where else can we use rituals in our day to day lives? Beginning and ending each day is actually a huge transition and threshold that we continually cross. How do you begin and end each day? This is a beautiful place to begin to weave more intentional ritual into your everyday lived experience. There are so many other contexts both big and small where ritual can serve us; adolescence, motherhood, menstruation and menopause, divorce, social justice, to name a few!

You can find Sally’s work, including her book, at www.bardlewry.com/ tree-of-wisdom

ROYAL HOBART REGATTA CELEBRATES 185 YEARS

Words: Amanda Double

From February 11-13, the Royal Hobart Regatta returns in what will be the 185th anniversary since this aquatic carnival was first held in Hobart Town.

In 1831 the Hobart ‘Arrow Club’ organised what is thought to be Tasmania’s first regatta, with a single race of 11 boats. However, Saturday, 1 December, 1838 was the date fixed by Governor Sir John Franklin for the first official regatta in Hobart Town, held to commemorate the anniversary of the brief visit by Dutch explorer Abel Tasman to Van Diemen’s Land in 1642.

The True Colonist Van Diemen’s Land Political Despatch, and Agricultural and Commercial Advertiser newspaper published an account of the day in its 7 December 1838 issue: “The weather was as propitious as any man could wish. As

early as 8 o’clock, Hobart Town began to pour forth its population in crowds, some of whom assembled on Macquarie Point, others took their station on the New Wharf, and a considerable number proceeded at once to the Pavilion Point (as it is now called) — most of the shops were shut, and many private families shut up their houses and gave their servants a holiday also. Sullivan’s Cove exhibited a most lively and brilliant scene, being crowded with boats and sailing crafts of all sorts and sizes, decked with flags and streamers, and constantly in motion. At 10 o’clock, His Excellency Sir John Franklin and suite embarked in the Governor’s barge, carrying the St. George’s ensign. The ‘flotilla’ [of some 60 boats] immediately moved off, round Macquarie Point... We never saw so many people collected in any place in this colony. It has been estimated that there could not be fewer than 12,000 assembled on shore and afloat.”

The Hobart Town Courier newspaper’s account and estimate of crowd numbers (also published on 7 December) differed a little: “Hobart had by this time poured forth by far the greater portion of its population, and high and low, rich and poor, were commingled together apparently intent only upon the enjoyment of the animated and bustling scene before them...The calculation of the number of people present upon this occasion differs materially, some laying it as high as nine thousand. We are disposed to estimate it at between five and six thousand. It is very certain that in addition to the large population of Hobart, a large number of persons crossed at Roseneath-ferry [Austin’s], and numbers also came from the Richmond district, Kangaroo-point, and Clarence-plains.”

According to a much later account published in The Mercury on 17 February 1873, the Regatta was in fact initially suggested by Lady Franklin: “It was late in the year when it was thought of, and was therefore rather hastily got up and the programme of the day contained only five events, the prize-money amounting in all to just one hundred and fifty sovereigns,

besides a silver cup that was presented to Sir John Franklin by a citizen of Hobart Town for regatta purposes, to be awarded according to his discretion, and which he devoted to a sixth race for the season boats of the great match of the day, namely, the whaleboat race.”

The 1838 True Colonist account described the whaleboat race in lyrical fashion: “...we never saw a more beautiful sight than the start of the sixteen whale boats; previous to starting they all hung on to a warp, one end of which was made fast to a wattle tree on shore and the other to a boat moored in the river, the force of the sea breeze and the flowing of the tide bent the line into a perfect crescent, which had a most beautiful effect, when the starting gun fired the several boats flew off like arrows. The distance which they had to pull was computed at eight or nine miles and was performed in 45 minutes, being at the rate of twelve miles an hour. The manoeuvreing of the sailing boats against wind and tide was very interesting, but the dingy race afforded the most amusement, because the distance sculled was so short that they were distinctly seen from the starting to the winning post.” The winner of the whaleboat race was fittingly named the “Lady Franklin”, steered by Mr J. Harper.

Adding to the festive mood, there were plenty of refreshments on shore, according to the Courier, “both in private pavillions, tents, and marquees, and in the public booths, the occupiers of which had a large supply of excellent viands, which were dispensed to the public at a reasonable rate.”

Much of the food and beer was free, reported the True Colonist: “We observed that several of the Brewers sent out hogsheads of ale for gratuitous distribution, and long and loud was the disputation as to the comparative merits of the different taps, but the majority appeared to be in favour of Degraves [that is, Peter Degraves, of the Cascade Brewery] which besides the well known merits of his ale

was partly produced by the great pains which he had taken to have it fine and in a proper state for drinking.”

The Hobart Regatta with its annual public holiday became an important event in Hobart’s social and sporting calendar, later expanding into the three-day long weekend event that we celebrate todaycomplete with competitions, exhibitions, military displays, music, carnival sideshows and other family entertainments on Queens Domain and the River Derwent. From 1879 the December long weekend was moved to January and February, and in 1934, King George V conferred an honour – the title to be thenceforth known as the ‘Royal Hobart Regatta’.

Although it continued throughout both Word Wars, it was cancelled in 1853 and 1854, and again in 1967 in the wake of the ‘Black Tuesday’ bushfires. According to its governing body the Royal Hobart Regatta Association, it “...now boasts the title for oldest, continuing of its kind within greater Australia.“ And long may it carry on. President David Skegg remarks in the Association’s 2022/2023 Annual Report: “Our Association now heads into new territory, with a new structure, and the energy and enthusiasm of a younger set within our management teams, and we look forward to the changes they will encourage, and make.”

As Kenneth Grahame wrote in The Wind in the Willows, “...there is nothing – absolutely nothing – half so much worth doing as simply messing about in boats.”

Sunset at Dennes Pt by Bev Reardon

Morning view @coffeeenut

Bee by Liz Osborne

City view by @ryankincade

kunanyi sign by Liz Osborn

Kingston Beach by Robin Voss

Boat shed by @addle_brains

Hobart waterfront at sunrise by Susan Mace

Evening sky by @ryankincade

Bushwalking by @ropro94

Exploring Tassie by@kirtiverma4

@yongi_olney

Four-mile creek beach at White Sands Estate by Shelley Parkinson