One of Tasmania’s best known & admired historic houses. Architecturally, historically, & socially significant, Invercoe was designed by Henry Hunter as a private residence in 1883, in an enviable position in one of the most intact Georgian villages in
Australia. The property now offers an opportunity for an interior designer/restorer to embark on a high-profile project, an astute investor to add to their property portfolio, a unique corporate headquarters, or you simply wish to own “the trophy property”.
One of the world’s great walks
We invite you to see Maria Island in a breathtaking new way, with an all inclusive experience hosted by knowledgeable guides, exploring Maria Island’s history, wildlife and beauty over three days with daily walks. Relax each night in the comfort of the historical and restored Bernacchi House on the island, enjoying delicious chef curated meals using locally sourced Tasmanian produce.
This experience is perfect for small, intimate groups and is discounted for locals to $1300 per person for a limited time only, using the code TASLOCAL when booking.
and
WELCOME TO
THE HOBART MAGAZINE
As winter tightens its grip with icy mornings and cloudy skies, we find ourselves in the midst of celebration - you’re holding our 60th edition! How time flies.
While we hit winter, across the globe in Paris it’s summer time and they’re set to host the Olympics and Paralympics. In this edition, we chat with Max Giuliani, the young freestyle swimmer set to do Tassie proud at the Games. Best of luck to all
the Tassie athletes selected.
There’s also plenty of community news, stories, and events from all over the island. We love to hear from our community, so please don’t hesitate to drop us a line at editor@thehobartmagazine.com.au.
All the best,
Steph, James and The Hobart Magazine team
Publisher Stephanie Williams editor@thehobartmagazine.com.au
Cover image: Max Giuliani at the pool in his @funkytrunks This page: Seagull surveillance
Publisher Information: While all care has been taken, some information may have changed since publication. The Hobart Magazine regrets it can’t accept liabilities from errors or omissions contained in this magazine. The publisher reserves the right to refuse, withdraw or amend all advertisements without explanation. Reproduction in whole or part without permission is prohibited. The views expressed in articles and advertisements are not endorsed by the editor or publishers. We welcome any questions, feedback or submissions, email editor@thehobartmagazine. com.au, or drop us a line at PO Box 315, South Hobart, TAS, 7004.
The Hobart Magazine acknowledges the Tasmanian Aboriginal People as the Traditional Owners and ongoing custodians of lutruwita/Tasmania. We pay our respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and to their Elders past, present and emerging. www.thehobartmagazine.com.au
TIM NOONAN
A journalist and documentary filmmaker, Tim Noonan has journeyed from the wilds of Tasmania to the far corners of the globe and back again. His latest project, Hunt for Truth: Tasmanian Tiger, on SBS, is an ongoing project that explores the mysteries of his homeland.
Where did you grow up and where do you live now? I grew up in Hobart, then took off to live interstate and travel for 20 years - but like so many Tasmanians returned to have kids. It’s like you’re born with a magnet in your heart here and the place just pulls you back.
Tell us a little about your work. I’m a journalist and documentary filmmaker and I’ve always been kinda addicted to loading up my life with extreme experiences, rather than material things. I realised really early on in my career that filming solo and self-shooting my own stories gave me freedom to create incredible opportunities without having to rely on anyone else. It meant I could get better access to people and places that were ordinarily off limits or too expensive for traditional TV crews. I started self-shooting by accident about 20 years ago because I had no-one to film me for an audition at Channel Nine and got hooked on the thrill of being a crew-of-one.
Tell us about your role on Alone Australia. I was asked to be what’s called the DOP (or Director of Photography) on Alone Australia from the inception of the show because I’d self-shot my own extreme adventure TV series. I had the skills they needed to both teach the participants how to film themselves and shoot the cinematic nature shots and aerials that you see throughout each episode. Before the cast are dropped in the wild to survive, I do an intensive filmmaking bootcamp to take them from zero to hero in just four days. Some people have no idea how to push record on a camera, so for some, it’s a steep learning curve. Our mantra is
to film everything - all the highs, lows, excitement and fear.
Your latest project is Hunt for Truth: Tasmanian Tiger. What motivated you to make this show? I’ve filmed cultures and creatures all over the world teetering on the brink of extinction and after moving back to Tasmania, I couldn’t resist wanting to untangle the mystery of the Tasmanian tiger and attempt to uncover the truth for myself.
You’ve filmed in extreme places globally. What are the unique challenges of solo filming in the Tasmanian wilderness? Yeah, I’ve shot everywhere from the Amazon, to the Arctic to scorching deserts in Africa and the Tassie wilderness takes the cake. The terrain is so intense, so unforgiving - it feels like it’s this fortress keeping our jewel in the crown (the tiger) hidden. I’ve been on several expeditions for this show that have brought me to my knees. I’ve followed intrepid researchers from the University of Tasmania to the furthest reaches of the island to set trail cameras to monitor wildlife. It means carrying all my provisions and camera equipment which is as physically and mentally testing as the search for the tiger itself.
What’s next for you? I’m off to shoot season three of Alone Australia in a secret location, then I‘m diving right back into the Tasmanian Tiger mystery to reveal some answers to the public, hopefully before we have another baby in September.
Who do you admire? My partner PJ! She
is an unsung hero and the rock that keeps our family together.
Favourite podcast or tv show? My wife and I are quietly addicted to a Youtube series called The Why Files at the moment.
Secret vice? Although I hate to admit it, getting a good coffee seems to be a daily ritual that I associate with getting the day started.
What are you reading now? An epic, unpublished book written by Tigermanone of the Thylacine eyewitnesses I interview in my show. He’s chronicled his own 20 year search for the creature and written more about the history of the animal than anyone else I’m aware of. Hopefully he’ll release it to the public one day.
What was your first job? Stacking milk at the Mt Nelson store, then drive-thru at Sandy Bay Maccas. Classy.
Your favourite place for… Breakfast: Bear with Me, South Hobart. Lunch: Blue Eye, Salamanca. Dinner: Sonny, in the city.
Dream holiday destination? I often fantasise about sitting on a remote tropical beach with my family without a care in the world - any will do. For solo travel, Papua New Guinea still offers old-school adventure, laced with a little danger that gets me excited.
Favourite Tasmanian secret? The South West wilderness. It’s one of the last great frontiers left on earth.
JESSE HIGGS
He’s the man behind some of Tasmania’s biggest live music events, including Party in the Paddock and Haydays. Now, Jesse Higgs has set up his own record label. We caught up with him to discuss this latest endeavour.
Where did you grow up? I grew up in northern Tasmania, a place we call The Creek. It’s been a special place to my family, since my grandparents Dudley and Lilly Higgs moved there in the early 1970s. From all the stories I heard about The Creek growing up and all of the legendary figures that painted its picture; it truly sounded like pioneering in the Wild West. With gun fights, car chases, bootleg alcohol (Creek Moonshine) and prominent for me - the legendary jam sessions at Grandma and Pap’s BBQs.
Now you’ve set up a new independent record label, Secret Creek Records. Tell us about it. I’d say that music is intrinsic to my family. When my parents built the family home, the big stone fireplace was built first and then the stage was secondit’s like an altar to our church. Those legendary BBQ jam sessions with Paps and Grandma and growing up in studios and on tour with my parents will always be with me. Initially, Secret Creek Records is here to tell the story of The Creek and music from north east Tasmania, but in the future I can see us working with other acts outside of Tassie.
The first release off the label is Shade Of My Soul, which is sung by yourself and your Mum, Sharyn, herself a country music star. What’s the story behind it? Sharyn Lee was at the peak of her career from 1993-2004, receiving many accolades for a decorated career, from winning rising star awards to playing tours with country music greats Keith Urban, Lee Kernaghan, Kasey Chambers etc. Shade Of My Soul was originally written in the early 2000’s, just after Mum was dropped from her record label for being pregnant with twins. It’s a vulnerable self account and a special song
that has become an anthem for friends and family who know Shaz best. With the opportunity presented to Shaz to re-record the song in Nashville this year, it has taken on even greater meaning after her cancer diagnosis in 2020.
You mentioned Shade Of My Soul was recorded in Nashville. Why was this trip to the US special for you and Sharyn? All music lovers know the history and awe surrounding Nashville and it doesn’t disappoint. I’ve never seen so many bands performing all at once in a one square kilometre radius. But for Mum, the American south/midwest has always been her biggest dream destination. Fairly obsessed with both Elvis and Native American culture we spent time visiting Cherokee and Chickasaw Native American Reservations and of course, Graceland. We then road tripped down to Texas for some real Cowboy/gal action.
Between Secret Creek Records, Party in the Paddock, and your band, HOLiDAY MYSTICS, you’re a busy bee. How do you do it? Well, when you put it like that! Yeah, to be honest, it is a juggle, but one I’ve been working towards for a few years now. In all of these projects I have amazing partners and really fundamental teams that make it all possible. There will be a lot of work, emails, meetings, conversations, gigs, travel, a little bit of blood, sweat and tears! But also, I’ll be carving out that time to smell them roses.
Who do you admire? People who speak the truth (always) but coat it in love and good intention. My partner Meg has this beautiful trait. For different reasons, I admire both my parents and especially - after the courage I am witnessingmy Mum.
Favourite podcast or tv show? I’m a big lover of podcasts that give voice to the ideas and people that challenge the ‘norms’ of mainstream society. I do love a good Joe Rogan Podcast The Aubrey Marcus Podcast is another one in this vein. TV shows - I sit somewhere between Vikings, F.R.I.E.N.D.S. and Ted Lasso
Secret vice? Bridgerton. Watching the series with my partner Meg, I don’t often get teary over a romance, but Colin and Pen! Wowser.
What are you reading now? Legacy: What the All Blacks Can Teach Us about the Business of Life and The Symbolic Meaning of The Story of King Arthur.
What was your first job? I got paid regularly at age seven for playing harmonica in my parents’ band, Sharyn Lee and the Hurricane.
What are your daily news/social media habits? The news is notoriously depressing. I like the sport sections and prefer local magazines with happy stories, like this one!
Your favourite place for… Breakfast: Frankie’s.
Lunch: Burgers Got Soul. Dinner: Buddha Thai.
Favourite team? Geelong Cats
Dream holiday destination? I’m going to have to see the Pyramids of Giza in the (sand) flesh.
Favourite Tasmanian secret? Tasmanian Tigers are not extinct.
Parting words? A big wholehearted thank you to anyone who reads this and who has been to PITP over the years (or any Vibestown Productions events), to a Younger Dryas gig back in the day, or to a HOLiDAY MYSTICS or Secret Creek show coming up! You’ve helped bring this Tassie fellow’s dreams into reality. Peace and Love.
Dr Martyn Sweet (Principal Dentist)
Dr Ram Pandey
Dr Emma Grubb
Dr Gavin Quek
Dr Justin Huang
Dr Nicholas Wong
Jade Cusack (Oral Health Therapist)
Hannah Colantoni (Oral Health Therapist)
BITS AND PIECES
NEW NEW NEW
Happiness awaits at Hobart’s newest sandwich deli, Happy Larry (59-63 Liverpool Street), which boasts an array of bold, flavourful sandwiches and specialty drinks, from the team behind Farzi. New lunch spot sorted. Just an hour’s drive from Hobart, the Little Norfolk Bay Bistro (5927 Arthur Hwy, Taranna) is all about locally sourced fresh caught seafood, and serving underutilised fish species. If you’ve never bitten into a hot souvlaki, you’re missing out. The good news is you can try the authentic Greek flavours at Parthenon Souvlaki (358 Elizabeth Street, North Hobart). This is the eatery’s second store, the first being in Moonah. Ever wanted to bottle the smell of Tassie? Well, now at new fragrance store The Consulate (5 Morrison Street, Hobart), you can enjoy their Tasmania 1 candle any time. We’re expecting the smell of wilderness, native flora, and beaches. This beautifully-designed shop is all about scents and other senses and is the second store from brand The Raconteur. Can’t get enough of scents? The Cat & Fiddle Arcade staple, L’Occitane en Provence, is expected to reopen in July. Walk in when construction is done and let the smells transport you to France. In some purrsome news, Ten Lives Cat Centre has opened their fourth Ten Lives Op Shop (Cnr Main Road & Hopkins Street) in Moonah. Every purchase helps
Ten Lives afford to care for Tasmanian cats and kittens. Feet a little sore? Make them happy at Tranquility Thai Foot Spa (1/31 Murray Street, Hobart) which blends traditional Thai massage techniques with modern remedies. Are you a Launceston resident in need of new shoes to cover up your dogs? There’s a new option on the table in Skechers (125 Brisbane Street, Launceston). It’s shoes galore in there. Launceston has a new community pop-up called The Lounge (107 Brisbane Street, Launceston) where you can hangout, escape the cold, and play games. South Hobart Acupuncture (4 Edge Avenue, Lenah Valley) has had a spruce up and is reopening on 15 July in their new location. Combining East Asian medicine and integrative health, your body will thank you. You might have noticed a naughty new shop on the streets of Hobart, that would be the recently-erected AdultShop (93 Liverpool Street, Hobart). Keep your eyes on the road!
HALF PRICE: BUS FARES SLASHED
Metro Tasmania recently announced that all public transportation fares have been halved until 30 June 2025. This applies to all fare types including adult, concession, urban, non-urban, child and student fares. It encompasses all public buses, fare-paying school buses and the River Derwent ferry service. This change was automatically applied to all fares, so no extra steps need to be taken.
DEERS GOING, GOING…
The Walls of Jerusalem National Park recently reopened following a second phase of deer culling as part of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area Deer Control Project. Wild fallow deer can threaten elements of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area - they damage soils, waterways and sensitive vegetation including the endangered Miena Cider Gum. During this year’s operation, 306 deer were removed from a 110,000 hectare area over 19 days, bringing the total to 1,017 removed. The aerial program was assisted with 13 days of ground shooting by volunteers from the
Sporting Shooters Association of Australia and the Australian Deer Association.
HOCKEY FEVER HITS HOBART
Hobart will host this year’s Hockey One League Finals Series. The finals are the official senior elite national competition, so we should see the country’s best male and female players as well as several international athletes on local fields. The comp will be held at the Tasmanian Hockey Centre in New Town from 30 November to 1 December, with tickets going on sale in August.
SCHOLARSHIP LAUNCHED IN MEMORY OF RECONCILIATION SUPPORTER
In tribute to the late Chris Crerar, Reconciliation Tasmania has launched a $25,000 UTAS scholarship. The Chris Crerar Reconciliation Scholarship, which was funded by donations, aims to support a Tasmanian Aboriginal student embarking on their first Bachelor’s degree journey in any field, commencing from Semester 1 2025. Remembered as a well-respected journalist, photographer, and advocate for social justice, particularly for Tasmanian Aboriginal people, Crerar’s commitment to fostering mutual respect and understanding resonates through this initiative. Tax deductible donations can be made via www.rectas.com.au.
Mary Hadley
John Eldershaw
W.G. Grace
Tasmanian Nightingale
Ignacy Jan Paderewski
BITS AND PIECES
TIME TO RIDE
The BMX Track at the South East Sports Complex in Sorell has opened. The track is available for the community to use during daylight hours. It’s home to the Southern City BMX Club who at times will have the track booked for training, events and competitions. They have it booked most afternoons from 4pm. Of course, safety gear is required to be worn. Motorised scooters and bikes, as well as regular scooters and skateboards, are not allowed on the track. You can get involved in Southern City BMX Club coaching sessions by contacting them at southerncitybmx@ hotmail.com. Stay safe and have fun!
WHAT DO AUSTRALIANS DIE FROM? NEW REPORT SHEDS LIGHT
We weren’t exactly asking for it, but a recent report has highlighted the ways Australians die. This information comes from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) after they looked into the death certificates from 2022, a year in which there were 191,000 registered deaths. So, what is the highest cause of death for Australians? If you asked a child they’d probably say quicksand or the Bermuda Triangle, and if you asked Bob Katter he’d probably say crocodiles. If you guessed heart disease, you’d be on the money. Coronary heart disease (CHD) was involved in 1 in 5 deaths in 2022. This stat includes deaths where CHD was one of several
factors, not just CHD alone - which is 1 in 10. In fact, the report showed that 4 in 5 deaths involved more than one cause and almost one-quarter of deaths had five or more causes recorded. CHD was followed by dementia (18%), hypertension (12%) and cerebrovascular diseases and diabetes (both 11%). The numbers look different for people aged 15 to 54, where suicide, road traffic injuries and accidental poisoning were common. So there, now you know what Australians die from. A morbid way to start your day.
DEVONPORT PARK THE BEST
Haines Park in Devonport has been awarded the TAS/VIC Park of the Year by Parks & Leisure Australia. This award recognises well-designed and managed parks, so this is something worth celebrating. In the centre of town toward the waterfront it’s a nice spot to rest and recharge.
THUMBS UP
Morning coffee ritual. Followed by the second morning coffee ritual… then maybe a third.
Putting beer in your slow cooked beef recipe. It works wonders.
Congratulations to all the Tasmanians headed to the Olympics this month! We’ll be cheering you on!
Learning slang from your kids.
THUMBS DOWN
Using the slang you learnt from your kids.
Finding used vapes in the city gutters.
Picking up a sport because of a movie you saw then finding out how hard it is. I’m looking at you Challengers.
Loud chewing.
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Last year’s 2023 Hadley’s Art Prize Residency winner, Melissa Kenihan will exhibit the work she produced during her one month residency in Hobart in the Howard Hadley Gallery at Hadley’s Orient Hotel from 25 July to 25 August. It will be open free to the public. During the residency earlier this year, the Melbourne-based artist worked in a studio at Salamanca Arts Centre. Her work often intertwines nature and narrative. This year’s 2024 Hadley’s Art Prize opens free to the public from Saturday 3 August, with the winner being announced the night before. All artworks are for sale, so don’t forget your cheque book!
LIL DEVILS OFF TO THE USA
Eight Tassie devils have headed off to new homes in the United States of America. The devils will live at various zoos in the north-east of the USA as part of the Save the Devil program. The devils, named Tequila, Tabasco, Layna, Tori, Mouse, Mozza, Arya Stark and Valentina, came from insurance populations at Trowunna Wildlife Sanctuary, Devils@ Cradle and Tasmania Zoo. Keepers from Toledo Zoo travelled to Cressy to do further training on handling the animals and to accompany the devils on their big adventure. It’s hoped the devils will raise awareness of their species’ plight. The
Tasmanian Devil Ambassador Program was initiated in 2013 and currently involves 21 zoos across New Zealand, Japan, America and Europe.
BETHLEHEM HOUSE CELEBRATES ITS FIRST GRADUATES
St. Vincent De Paul Society (Vinnies) recently celebrated the inaugural class of 10 graduates from Bethlehem House’s Employability Program. The program provided training for residents, focusing on civil contracting skills. Over two weeks, participants learned about working at heights, confined spaces, and woodwork. Their efforts have already enhanced Bethlehem House’s rooftop garden. The program helped empower men to pursue new opportunities and break the cycle of homelessness-related trauma.
VALE MICK LAWRENCE
The Tasmanian surfing community, and the broader community of friends and family, is mourning the loss of surfing pioneer, environmentalist, writer and filmmaker Mick Lawrence. The state surfing champ for 1966/67 took to the waves around the state as well as across the world and wrote about it all for publications like Tracks, Surfing World and Australian Longboarder. His love of the waters and wilderness of Tasmania (he was also a guide in the South West,
and sea kayaked around remote parts of the state) led him to set up the Surfrider Foundation to campaign to protect oceans, and Friends of the Bay to counter expansion of salmon farming in Storm Bay. On behalf of Mick’s family, Surfing Tasmania issued a statement that said that in lieu of a memorial gathering, a donation would be made to Surfing Tasmania in Mick’s honour.
HUNGRY DOGS NEED DONATIONS
The not-for-profit Dogs Home of Tasmania are appealing to the public to help out after a long-term dog food sponsorship relationship ended. The sponsorship had covered almost all of their feeding costs for 20 years and the Home estimates that the cost of feeding the dogs could add up to an extra $150,000 per year to the already-rising costs of running the service. They’re hoping members of the public might be able pitch in and help to cover it, via www.dhot.com.au.
GROUND CONTROL TO MAJOR SPIRIT
Over 500km above Tasmania, a shoebox-sized satellite named SpIRIT is detecting the cosmos for black holes, and transmitting its findings to Tasmanian antennas. UTAS recently celebrated a milestone after successfully receiving communication from the little satellite; a massive step in Australian space exploration. The satellite locates back holes with an X-ray detector, which can locate high-energy gamma ray bursts indicative of black holes. Stay tuned for exciting new updates about the universe.
1 - 3 Aug
By
Moogahlin Performing Arts and Sydney Theatre Company
Jane Harrison | Directed by Wesley Enoch
BITS AND PIECES
PROGRESS FOR NEW LAUNCESTON TENNIS COURT A SERVE
The new Launceston Tennis, Community, and Events Centre is one point closer to becoming a reality, after the successful tenderer was announced. Fairbrother Construction will undertake the redevelopment of the existing centre to transition it to a state-of-the-art tennis facility. It shouldn’t be too long until locals can embrace their inner Djokovic or Sabalenka and start hitting the aces. The building works are scheduled to be completed by the end of the year, ensuring a grand slam transformation.
NEW SPEED CAMERAS FOR TASSIE
Point-to-point speed cameras will start to appear across Tasmania in the second half of this year. Already used in many places on the mainland, the technology can detect speeding by automatically calculating the time it took a driver to get from one camera to the next. The portable ‘pizza oven’ speed cameras currently in use can be used for point-to-point averaging, so they could pop up anywhere.
BELLERIVE BEACH PARK PLANS
Clarence City Council wants to know your thoughts on one of Hobart’s most popular parks, the Bellerive Beach Park. CCC first created a master plan for the
park in 2012, then updated the plan in 2015. The current features have been built in stages in the years since then but as the park continues to grow in popularity, council says the time has come to review the master plan that covers the play park, the beach area, shared pathways, fitness equipment and the picnic and bbq facilities. Head to www.ccc.tas.gov.au to share your thoughts.
10 YEARS OF PEST FREE LIVING ON MACQUARIE ISLAND
Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service recently celebrated the 10-year anniversary of Macquarie Island being declared pest free. Back in the day, the island was overrun with introduced pest species including rabbits, rats, and mice, but after an eradication project began in 2007, the health of the island has been restoring to its natural state. The project was declared successful in 2014. Staff will continue to monitor wildlife on the island as part of a 10-year Macquarie Island Wildlife Monitoring Program.
NEW BIKE LANE INFRASTRUCTURE FOR COLLINS STREET
Collins Street in Hobart is poised for a transformation after the council greenlit a plan for new bike lanes and outdoor spaces. The initiative aims to establish
a safe link between kunanyi / Mount Wellington and the city, promoting alternative transport. The project includes the removal of 59 on-street parking spots, which has sparked concerns among local businesses. Implementation will involve removing a bus stop and reducing Collins Street’s speed limit to 30 km/h for the two year duration of the project.
TASMANIAN OPERA ICON TO RECEIVE MONUMENT
A life-sized marble statue of a singer from Tasmania’s past is planned for within the Theatre Royal precinct of Hobart. But who is this person? That would be Amy Sherwin, known as the Tasmanian Nightingale, a soprano singer from the 19th century. Internationally-acclaimed during her time, she faded into relative obscurity after her death in 1935, but this upcoming monument hopes to restore and immortalise her legacy. Bob Brown is leading a fundraiser to cover the cost of the statue, which will be the first of its kind honouring a named woman in Tasmania. Yes, you read that correctly - the first of its kind honouring a named woman! The proposed Theatre Royal location is fitting. It was on the Royal’s stage that Amy made her first success before leaving Australia to conquer the opera stages of the world. More info and donations can be found at amysherwinfund.au.
BITS AND PIECES
DAM UPGRADES ON THE WAY
Hydro Tasmania has been given permission to start upgrading Edgar Dam in Tasmania’s south west later this year. Edgar Dam is next to the Lake Edgar Fault Line, which was believed to be inactive when it was built. But experts found out the fault might not be inactive after all. The upgrades will involve adding new downstream gravel filters and rock fill to support the dam. This will make the dam better able to withstand earthquakes, al though the chance of a major earthquake is extremely low. Edgar Dam is at the southern end of the Gordon-Pedder Hydro Scheme, which provides about 13% of Tasmania’s renewable energy.
SK8ER BOI: DICAPRIO VOICES
SUPPORT FOR ENDANGERED SKATE
Hollywood megastar Leonardo DiCaprio has once again weighed in on Tasma nia. First it was the Swift Parrot, then native forest logging, and more recently in support of the de-extinction of the Tasmanian Tiger. This time he slammed the Tasmanian salmon industry on Ins tagram, and put the call out to help save the Maugean Skate from extinction. The Maugean Skate is endangered and only found in the waters of Macquarie Harbour and Bathurst Harbour on the west coast. In other news, a new facility to house the Maugean Skate has been proposed by the Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies (IMAS). The proposed facility would be established at IMAS’s Taroona site, which already houses a small skate population. Maybe DiCaprio can chip in...
TASSIE FILM TALENT ON SHOW
Flickerfest, Australia’s premier short film festival, marks its 33rd year in 2024 with screenings at Hobart’s Peacock Theatre, Salamanca Arts Centre on 12 and 13 July at 8pm. The event showcases handpicked highlights from over 3,000 submissions. Kartanya Maynard is an actor and director of Lean In, which is featured in the festival. We caught up with Kartanya ahead of the show.
Tell us a bit about your short film, Lean In. Lean In is about Rach, a moral-abiding feminist comedian who ends her self-funded tour being rejected by the agent she’s been holding out for. Her brother Benny invites her to join in on his work Christmas drinks, where she is continually pushed to see whether she has what it takes to survive in these finance bros’ world.
What was most challenging about this role? The most challenging part of the role was keeping Rach separate from me. I constantly felt really confronted by the dialogue and the idea of questioning one’s morals as Rach does throughout the film. I had a lot of moments where my mind knew I was acting but my body didn’t, so that was really hard to keep under control.
How do you identify with your character, Rach? I really identify with the hunger Rach has to be somebody, to get to the top of her chosen field and achieve her dream. I am an overachiever at my core and so is Rach.
You’re a rising star, recently starring in Deadloch and Heartbreak High. How have things changed by being on screen more regularly? Is there Deadloch 2 in the works? During my short time in this industry, I have been able to be a part of so many amazing productions, I feel proud being able to work with the creatives that I do. Thankfully for me not a whole lot has changed, I’m still a crocheting homebody, my friends and family treat me the same, the only difference now is that sometimes I get stopped for a photo with some fans. I really hope Deadloch gets a season 2! Fingers crossed peeps!
What do you like to do when you’re back in Nipaluna / Hobart? When I’m back in Nipaluna I like to spend muchneeded time at home since I travel so much now, and spend as much time as I can with the people that I love. My time when I’m home is where I can really focus on working on myself and pursuing my hobbies. I’m a little granny doing arts and crafts at heart.
What’s coming up for you? I’m currently performing in Sydney Theatre Company’s STOLEN by Jane Harrison. It’s honestly one of the most important plays ever written in Australia and a true must see for everyone. I’m very proud to be a part of it. As for future projects I have to stay tight lipped for now, but you’ll hear all about it soon enough!
For tickets and more information, visit flickerfest.com.au/tour/hobart.
BITS AND PIECES
RUN FOR PASTRY
Exercise then a croissant - is there a better post-exercise snack? That’s the idea behind the Croissant Run Club, a Hobart group who treat themselves to a croissant at the end of a run. It sounds like a fun way to meet people and get some exercise in. They hold runs every Sunday at 9am. Request to join at www.strava.com/ clubs/1162620.
WANNA BUY AN AIRPORT?
The Cambridge Aerodrome - with over 45 hectares of land - is for sale. The freehold land comprises the aerodrome with four hangars, some offices, two runways, taxi-ways, aircraft parking areas, aviation fuel stations, extensive vehicle parking and an old Aero Club building. The real estate listing states it is “Tasmania’s busiest airport by air traffic movements as at June 2023 supporting emergency services, tourism/wilderness flights and pilot training”. There is no price tag listed so if it sounds like your jam, expressions of interest close 9 July.
RESPECT FOR HEALTH WORKERS
A campaign to promote respect towards health workers in Tasmania has been ramped up for the busiest months of the year for hospitals. The tagline is “A healthy dose of respect helps everyone”.
Health Minister Guy Barnett also recently introduced legislation into Parliament to see the presumption of a minimum sentence of six months’ imprisonment for anyone that would cause serious bodily harm to Tasmanian frontline workers.
WINTER HEATER WARNING
After a recent close call for a couple of Hobart residents, the Tasmanian Fire Service are reminding us all to be careful to keep all flammable items far away from any heaters. Fire crews were called to a home in Berriedale last month after a couch near a wood heater caught alight. Station Officer Stuart Peel said the fire was caused by radiant heat from the fire.
“The occupants had opened the door of the wood heater to stoke the fire, and the radiant heat caused the material of the couch to melt and catch alight. Two residents, who were home at the time, managed to douse the fire with water before evacuating, and were thankfully not injured.”
Acting Director of Community Fire Safety, Chris Collins said radiant heat from wood, gas and electric heaters is a leading cause of house fires, especially during winter. “We advise people to ensure any flammable material, including furniture and clothing, is at least two metres from
heaters,” he said. “Every winter we see a large rise in the number of fires, mostly due to the increased use of heating equipment and extra cooking.”
LOCAL TV AND FILM PROJECTS COMING SOON
Lovers of local TV and film productions can look forward to seeing five new Tassie screen projects that are in the works. Five projects that have been approved for funding to get to the next step are: Dead ‘Til Midnight: a thriller feature film from writer/director Sam Curtain and producer Ben Jung-Clarke; Echoes Through Ice: a documentary feature from Polaris Pictures scoring vision and scientific inquiry of Antarctica with a contemporary opera soundtrack; Lyell: a thriller feature from expatriate Tasmanian Damien Power set in a West Coast mining town; The Pledge: the extraordinary story of Amanda Ducker and her promise kept to her childhood friend from Tennant Creek, brought to life by Mint Pictures; and Should We Quit Drinking?: a documentary from West Coast production company Reunion Media about two best friends whose friendship has always revolved around alcohol.
NOMINATE A VOLUNTEER
Nominations are now open for the 2024 Tasmanian Volunteering Awards, until 14 August. This is an opportunity to shout out the significant contributions made by volunteers who dedicate their time and effort to great causes. The categories include:
• Tasmanian Youth Volunteer of the Year
• Inclusive Volunteering Award
• Volunteer Impact Award (Corporate/ Partnerships)
• Excellence in Volunteer Leadership and Management
• Volunteer Impact Award (Individual)
• Volunteer Impact Award (Group)
• Lifetime Commitment Award
• The Premier’s Volunteer of the Year Award
You can nominate someone you know at volunteeringtas.org.au.
They’re made. In Tasmania. We bound into the season when others yawn. Awoken by the chill. More fiery and free under the cover of dark. We cast off our inhibitions and plunge into icy waters.
Plumping with the oysters and singing to bubbling whisky stills.
To everything there is a season. And if, like us, you think life’s too short to hibernate - that season is now.
Wake up to the OFF SEASON May-August 2024
discovertasmania.com.au/off-season
BITS AND PIECES
SLOW DOWN DUSK TO DAWN
Tasmanian drivers are reminded to consider wildlife when driving. A new national study in animal-related road accidents has revealed the worst spot in Tasmania is Kingston. Cambridge came a close second, followed by Hobart City, then Brighton. The study also found that animal collisions are going up by 22%
FERRY-TASTIC UPDATE
The expansion of the River Derwent Ferry service is starting to make waves, with the Greater Hobart councils considering plans for new terminals. At the moment, the ferry travels between Bellerive and Hobart, but an expansion would mean more locations are added to the ferry network. Analysis and geological testing has taken place at several sites across Lindisfarne, Sandy Bay and Wilkinsons Point to determine the fitness for new ferry terminals. Councils expect public consultation to occur later this year. Hobart Lord Mayor Anna Reynolds said, “An expanded ferry network will deliver broad economic and social benefits – both in the immediate term through direct job opportunities and in the long term through infrastructure improvements, enhanced productivity and improved social connectivity.”
every year, and the worst time for this is during the colder months. Some tips on how to share the roads with wildlife are:
• Scan the sides of the road at night
• Drive slower at night for a better chance of avoiding a collision
• Take note of wildlife warning signsthey are there for a reason
• If an animal is on the road, let it move off first before passing.
If you accidentally hit an animal, try to stop safely. Sometimes injured animals can be saved, especially females with babies in their pouches. Keep the injured animal in a warm, dark place when transporting and call Bonorong Wildlife Rescue at 0447 264 625.
FORT NELSON HOUSE IN ART BOX
That big yellow public art box is out and about again, currently on display at Sandy Bay’s Long Beach. The second installation of the InsideOUT program highlights the iconic Fort Nelson House - designed by famous architect J.H. Esmond Dorney. A local photographer and videographer
Across the river, Clarence Mayor Brendan Blomeley said, “A new terminal at Lindisfarne will complement the State Government’s plans to redevelop the existing Bellerive terminal, providing better amenities for Clarence residents and increasing connection between the eastern shore and the rest of Hobart.”
Kingborough Acting Mayor Clare Glade-Wright shared, “We remain committed to seeing the ferry network expand south to Kingston at a future stage. It is clear that further investment is required to make this longer-term vision a reality, with a number of key factors such as the location and commuter parking requiring further consideration.”
“Given ongoing pressures on our roads and buses, growing the ferry network
Andy Hatton has taken on a long-term project to capture the many moods of the Fort Nelson House, which is visible from Long Beach. Andy’s exhibition shows the transition of the house from dawn to sunrise, dusk and with a full moon rising. Fort Nelson House is touted as one of Australia’s finest examples of modernist architecture and was recently awarded international recognition by Doco MoMo, a global body honouring significant modernist works. The InsideOUT installation will be at Long Beach until July 21, after which the arts cubes will be relocated to a new site.
SPEAKING UP: SO LONG TO OUTDATED TRADITIONS
The Tasmanian Parliament has decided to use gender-neutral language when addressing its presiding officer, which breaks a tradition that has lasted 167 years. From now on, both current and future Speakers won’t be called Mr. Speaker or Madam Speaker, but will simply be referred to as Speaker or Honourable Speaker.
will improve the commuter experience for all Greater Hobart residents in a cost effective way. More transport options will reduce traffic on our major arterial roads and provide a better commute for local residents. Importantly, an expanded ferry network will support events – including at MyState Bank Arena via a new terminal at Wilkinsons Point,” said then-acting Glenorchy Mayor Sue Hickey.
WHAT’S ON IN HOBART
MONDAY
The Festival of Voices continues, with the nostalgia of A Stroll Down Memory Lane with Joan Wright OAM at Hobart Town Hall, 10:30am. Enjoy pop up choirs at Hadley’s Orient Bar every night until 6 July.
The film Alpine Odyssey tells the story of Huw Kingston’s winter 2022 journey along the 700km length of the Australian Alps, 27 years after his first go. Dechaineux Lecture Theatre, 6:30pm.
Be inspired and entertained at the Art From Trash 2024 exhibition, run by the Resource Work Cooperative and held at the Long Gallery at Salamanca Arts Centre.
WEDNESDAY TUESDAY
A panel of experts discuss Democracy Done Differently tonight at the Stanley Burbury Theatre at UTAS from 6-7:30pm. You can also attend online.
Learn how you can reduce pain and inflammation through diet with a talk by nutritionist Jennifer Phillips at the Kingborough Community Hub, 10-11:30am.
Macy Gray’s unmistakable voice will fill The Odeon tonight, while Young Tasmania Sings sees hundreds of school kids fill the Federation Concert Hall with their harmonies as part of the Festival of Voices.
ARC opens tonight at the Theatre Royal, until 12 July. Kid’s film Victor and the secret of Crocodile Mansion is showing free at Huonville Library, part of the month-long Winter Film Festival in various local libraries.
THURSDAY FRIDAY
Finegan Kruckemeyer will launch his debut The End and Everything Before It in conversation with Robbie Arnott at the Afterword Cafe (Fullers), 5:30pm.
A three-day stop-motion workshop for 8-13 year olds will teach them how to script, create plasticine characters, sets and props, animate their movies and add voices. Moonah Arts Centre.
Internationally acclaimed Australian soprano Siobhan Stagg is here for one night only with pianist Nico de Villiers for a captivating recital of music by Hageman and Strauss, Hobart Town Hall, 7pm.
Musica Viva presents the Bernard Trio at The Hedberg tonight from 7:30pm.
Try beginners Tango at the Polish Club from 6-7:30pm, then run to Grinners Dive Bar to catch James Bennett, 7:30-10pm. Beginners are Grinners!
Second Echo Ensemble presents THE BOND, an experimental installation with performance, talks and an exhibition at Plimsoll Gallery (UTAS), today 5pm and lots of other times too, via humanitix.
Learn all about using and connecting Bluetooth on your devices at Bluetooth at Bridgewater Library today, 10-11:30am.
Shut Up and Write! is a weekly get together for writers to briefly introduce themselves then write, write, write for an hour. Temporarily at Boodle Beasley, 6:30-8pm.
Wesley Enoch’s thought-proviking play The Visitors is on tonight at the Theatre Royal, 7:30pm.
Hear bestselling writer Sandie Docker discuss her latest novel, The Lyrebird Lake Ladies Choir, 5:30pm, Hobart Library.
The Teeny Tiny Stevies - one of Australia’s best bands for little kids - play Hellenic House in North Hobart from 10:30am.
The Tassie Makers Food Festival takes over PW1 from 4-10p m tonight and tomorrow. From 4:30pm the Hobart Twilight Market at Brooke Street Pier kicks off too.
Partake in one last wassail at the final Willie Smiths Midwinter Festival in the Huon Valley this weekend. 16 15 22 29 24 23 1 30 26 17 19 10 11 9 4 3 2 1 5 12 i
Details subject to
SATURDAY SUNDAY
Dear Seattle, the band, will rock The Republic Bar tonight from 7pm.
FURTHER AFIELD
6 July
The Clubhouse presents funnyman James G Warren: King Single, 6:30pm, Hobart Brewing Co.
Head to Nubeena to celebrate day two of Lightwave, the annual winter arts festival. On tomorrow too.
Stretch, relax and ground yourself at Alceme’s Yin and Harp event - yoga with harp music6:30pm.
Celebrate Colombian Independence Day with entertainment, food, Colombian coffee and hand-crafts at the Kingborough Community Hub today 11am-4pm.
Blues and Burlesque
Beats is on for the final night tonight, with live music from Sam & The 78s and burlesque acts from 6:30-8:30pm, Peacock Theatre.
PAW Patrol
Live! Race to the Rescue is on at the Mystate Bank Arena today, with various time slots. Country legend Lee Kernaghan plays the Wrest Point stage tonight from 8pm.
The Jane Morris Quartet bring jazz to the Channel for Jazz in July at the Kettering Hall, 3-5pm.
Del-icious Sounds 2024 is a day of live music for all ages at the Little Theatre in Deloraine. See Drenched, Goldthrone, Swords Bros and more. 2-8pm.
12 July
To accompany their showing of the Natural History Museum (London)’s Wildlife Photographer of the Year 59 exhibit, QVMAG are running a series of workshops with artists. Today, Tasmanian artist Katie Barron will guide participants in sketching an image from the exhibit in preparation for acrylic and oil painting.
1-21 July
Does our experience and relationship with a place impact our state of being there? That’s the question explored by Ulverstone local Louise Daniels in her current exhibition of charcoal and acrylic artworks, Place of Being, at The Hive. 10am-4pm daily.
21 July
World Street Eats is a community-centric, cultural food and
drinks market, held on the third Sunday of the month, from 11am-3pm at Civic Square in the heart of Launceston.
25-28 July
The Devonport Jazz Festival has rhythm taking over the whole town. Find all the details at www. devonportjazz.com.au.
All month
Tasmanian photographer Philip Kuruvita focuses his lens on the community of Launceston, with the resulting Faces of Launceston black and white exhibition capturing the unique personalities of his hometown. 12-4pm daily until September, Art Gallery at Royal Park, free entry.
AROUND THE ISLAND
MONDAY WEDNESDAY TUESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY
Discover a wonderland with West Coast Wilderness Railway. Until 21 July at select stops, local kids have crafted a magical world. Join a scavenger hunt for a chance to win a prize.
Take the kids to the interactive concert, Big Beanie Boogie, where they can get up on their feet and boogie the day away. At Paranaple Arts Centre in Devonport. 10:30am and 1pm.
Head to QVMAG in Launceston to see the talented works of the Women’s Art Prize Tasmania. Free entry, open until 7 July.
Liven up your Tuesday night at The Irish in Launceston for Trivia Tuesday Tunes. Trivia from 7pm, followed by live acoustic bangers in the bar.
Pop into QVMAG to view their Vast and Varied exhibition. Celebrating the diverse history of ceramics, it runs until 27 October.
Swap the classic penand-paper trivia for a new kind of interactive trivia night at Sporties Hotel, Launceston. Free to play, 6:30pm start.
Prepare for some laughin’ Burnie because the finest talents from the 2024 Melbourne International Comedy Festival are coming your way! Burnie Arts Centre from 7:30pm.
Pay a visit to the Watch House Gallery in George Town to view an exhibition called Under the Microscope about the tiny world of fabrics. Until 6 July.
This calendar isn’t complete without mentioning Monday night drag trivia featuring the forceful Enya Arsenal, at Tandy’s Alehouse. Slay.
Develop and hone your speaking skills at English Conversation, Devonport Library. 10am start.
Burnie Regional Museum presents a nostalgic exhibition exploring Burnie’s architectural past titled Drawn From the Past Free entry, runs until 2 August.
Join the weekly gathering at Inveresk Community Garden to learn how to grow a variety of veggies and herbs (and take some home). 10am start, at Queen Victoria Museum.
For two nights Princess Theatre Launceston hosts ARC, a unique experience that combines puppetry, audience interaction and a world of rare and exotic animals. 6pm start.
At Launceston’s Earl Arts Centre, new Tasmanian play The Box is meant to be a complex family drama about a single mother and her two hardened sons. Until 27 July.
Devonport Jazz Festival returns for its 23rd year. Get warm and groove at venues across the city. A perfect way to spend some winter nights. Until 28 July.
Spend an amusing night at Daniel Connell’s hilarious new show featuring his witty observations on Australian life, at The Sports Garden Hotel in Launceston.
Enjoy good times and great spirits at Western Tiers Distillery in Westbury. On Fridays, 4-7pm, delight in grazing platters that compliment your drinks.
At Burnie Arts Centre join Tammy Tooth at 7:30pm for All Fired Up, an immersive 80s Mixed Tape Musical where she revisits her teenage self to reclaim her passion for life. 16 15 22 29 24 23 31 1 2 30 26 25 17 18 19 8 10 11 9 4 2 1 5 12
Drop in after school at LEGO Club, Devonport Library. Experiment with these colourful blocks and build masterpieces. Just don’t step on one! 3:30pm.
Princess Theatre
Launceston presents The Visitors, a deeply researched play into one of the most impactful days in Australia’s history. 7:30pm.
Tonight’s Fire & Fog:
The Feast, where winter meets warmth. Indulge in a four-course dream crafted with local and seasonal ingredients. Old Brisbane Arcade in Launceston.
Embrace sustainability at agriCULTURED, a four day Launceston event showcasing the best of Tasmania’s winter produce through art, performance, and discussion.
See A Spark in the Dark. Tasmanian wildlife captured in black and white imagery, followed by conversations around a campfire at Bradys Lookout Cider in Rosevears. 5-7pm.
Indie rock band Dear Seattle who are not in fact from Seattle (they’re from NSW) play at Royal Oak Hotel in Launceston tonight.
SATURDAY
The great music doesn’t stop at the Royal Oak Hotel for tonight it hosts singer-songwriter Karise Eden
The Swansea Community Market is held today in Swansea Town Hall from 10am. Showcasing local art, craft and seasonal fresh produce. New stallholders are welcome.
Enter Longboat Tavern in Bicheno tonight for a lively celebration of the Bicheno Beams Finale
There will be live music from The Pretty Things starting at 9pm, with a $10 entry fee.
Relax at the scenic venue
The Branch in Swansea as live music from Tom Booth soundtracks your wine-sipping. 2-5pm.
Knowe Vineyard in Cranbrook for the 4WD Show ‘N Shine, a day of automotive marvels, culinary delights, and live music. amidst picturesque hills. 4 27 28 20 7 6 13 14 JULY
SUNDAY
Wildlife Photographer of the Year is being hosted at QVMAG until 8 September. See the very best nature photography and be transported to wild places.
Escape to Craigie
Get festive with Christmas in July at Franklin House in Launceston. Bring the family to the historic house and celebrate the Christmas spirit. 2pm start, bookings essential.
Come out of your shell at the Tassie Scallop Fiesta at Bridport. Learn about local maritime heritage and indulge in exquisite winter seafood at the same time.
WANT TO EXPLORE MORE?
Amaze Richmond
After exploring the charming historic town of Richmond, get lost (in a fun way) at Amaze. Home to two mazes with unique challengers; one with a native animal scavenger hunt, the other with codes to crack, and a hidden tunnel and lookout.
Ross Bakery
The Ross Village Bakery is located in the small township of Ross. A must-visit for those travelling the Midland Highway, the bakery is known for their scallop pies and vanilla slice, plus a curious connection to the Japanese film, Kiki’s Delivery Service.
Inala Jurassic Garden
On Bruny Island, this is a beautiful botanic garden showcasing flora from prehistoric times, with over 750 species. It’s a pleasant walk through the garden, and the little Nature Museum next door is also worth a look, full of fossils and minerals.
at editor@thehobartmagazine.com.au
Background photo: Jess Bonde
BITS AND PIECES
PFAS LEVELS IN TASSIE WATER
You may have heard recent talk about PFAS chemicals (Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, also known as forever chemicals) in tap water in Australia. PFAS have been linked to a whole range of health issues. This stems from a recent news story that cites a 2011 study from the University of Queensland that found PFAS in water samples across Australia, including Kingborough in Tasmania. It’s Australia’s only national study on PFAS levels in tap water. In an ABC Radio Hobart interview in late June, TasWater scientist Graham Hawke said TasWater is currently testing Tasmania’s water for PFAS. We approached TasWater for more information on the new testing. “We are conducting extensive testing in catchments that provide 90% of our drinking water and no PFAS has been detected,” Mr Hawke shared with us. “Customers across Tasmania can have confidence in their treated drinking water.” The US has recently set a PFAS limit of 4 parts per trillion in its drinking water, the strictest in the world. Is this something Australia should follow suit on and lower the PFAS limit like the US? Learn more about PFAS at www.pfas.gov.au.
SPEED CHANGE NEAR RICHMOND
The speed limit for parts of Grasstree Hill Road near Richmond has recently changed. Specifically, the 2.8km stretch between Cold Blow Road and Malcolms Hut Road. The speed limit here is now 80km/h, down from 100km/h, so keep an eye out when travelling here.
FROM GRIEF TO GROWTH: HOW THE BRAIN HEALS AFTER LOSS
Words: Michael Briggs, counsellor and EMDR practitioner
We don’t like to be reminded of it, but there is no escaping loss. As author William Goldman describes in his celebrated work The Princess Bride, “Life is pain, highness. Anybody who says different is selling something.” The grief we feel from a significant loss can be unlike any other. In fact, emotional pain involves the same brain regions as physical pain, suggesting the two are inextricably connected.
Grief has long been a subject of interest to neuroscientists interested in de-mystifying the relationship between brain function, emotional experience, social interactions, and physical health. But despite this interest, we only know about 10% of how the brain processes grief. In her pioneering work On Death and Dying, Elizabeth Kubler-Ross defined what is known as the stages of grief (denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance) but this tells only part of the story. Instead, neuroscience teaches us that grief can best be described as a motivational process. We are motivated, through our grief, to seek out and satisfy our desire to reconnect. As Mary FrancisO’Connor, an Associate Professor at the University of Arizona, explains in Craving love? Enduring grief activates brain’s reward centre, grief lights up the very same locations of the brain associated with motivation, craving and pursuit. Of course, we may experience some or all of Kubler-Ross’ stages, but the process of moving through grief is more of an active process than first thought.
If this sounds strange to you, consider for a moment what it would feel like to experience extreme thirst only to have a chilled glass of water always out of reach. No matter how hard you try to grasp it, you can’t. This is what renowned American neuroscientist,
podcaster and Stanford Professor Andrew Huberman describes goes some way toward explaining the physiological (the body’s reaction to emotion) experience of the pain of loss. Confusion, torment, despair are some of the words that come to mind.
Francis-O’Connor’s study also highlights that, in grief, we are motivated to behave in ways that lead us to believe our loved one/s are still here. Put another way, the brain regions related to motivation, craving, and pursuit require a resolution and so we make predictions about where (proximity) and how long (time) it would take to reach the deceased. We do this not through current perceptions of proximity and time, but through a now outdated understanding of our real-world connection to those we have lost, and we base this primarily on the rich database of experiences we have shared (something referred to as episodic memory). Interestingly, our brains tend to prioritise episodic memory over new information due to the sheer volume and the intensity of our motivational drive to reconnect. To accept loss is therefore a representation of our capacity to integrate new information adaptively (meaning making) whilst preserving our attachment, not suppressing it. If we can do this, and reduce our reliance on outdated memory that often torments us with unrealistic predictions and expectations, we are on our way. Remember, you are stronger than you think.
Spirited Therapy provides person-centred and trauma-informed counselling services to adults and couples in-person or online. If this topic has interested you, or you struggle with grief yourself, please contact Michael via www.spiritedtherapy.com.au or follow him @spiritedtherapy.
Photo:
LAPPING IT UP: MAX GIULIANI’S OLYMPIC DREAM
Pictures: Supplied
In just 1 minute and 45.83 seconds, Max Giuliani’s life changed. This was his winning time in the men’s 200m freestyle final at the Australian Swimming Championships in June - a thrilling victory that secured the 20-yearold Tasmanian a coveted spot in the Australian Olympic Team heading to Paris.
This achievement fulfills a lifelong dream for Max. “As a kid I kinda told everyone I wanted to be an Olympian,” he says with a laugh. His passion for swimming was shaped by his upbringing in the Southern Beaches. From his family home in Carlton, he spent all his time at the beach and surf club with his mates. His parents, adamant about water safety, ensured he learned to swim from a young age. “My Mum and Dad thought it was very important.”
Despite his love for the sport, Max nearly turned away from it altogether. Many of his friends were pursuing trades, and he considered following suit. “Just because it was easier and I didnt think I would be able to pursue swimming to the level that I wanted to,” he admits. Everything changed in 2022 when his coach, Paul Crosswell, got offered a job in the Gold Coast.
Suddenly Max was faced with a choice. Stay in Tassie and become a tradesman, or go to Queensland and pursue swimming? A big fear of his is missed opportunities. If he stayed, he believes the ‘what ifs’ and ‘buts’ of his cut-short swimming career would plague him. “You’ve only got a certain amount of time to do a sport, so it’s very important to pursue it while you’re young.” And so, off he went. At just 18-years-old, Max said goodbye to his loved ones to chase his passion. Homesick, he underwent long and intense periods of training. All of the hard work paid off with his Olympic-qualifying victory in June. As difficult as the decision was for Max to leave home, it has gone swimmingly.
The response to Max’s Olympic qualification has been electric. “The amount of support I’ve received is like nothing I’ve experienced in my life. It’s unreal. My phone hasn’t stopped going crazy since the race.” Indeed, it was a challenge to get a hold of the busy young athlete for this interview! While his life has been hectic, he’s proud of this achievement and wouldn’t have it any other way. “I feel like I got the whole state behind me. I really hope I can make everyone proud in Paris,” he says.
You might have crossed paths with Max without knowing it. Long before his sudden rise to fame, he helped his dad at Hobart’s Farm Gate Market, manning the Sirocco South stall. He’s even worked at Dark Mofo. But those days are behind him now. “I’ve stepped back from that because I’ve had so much sport to commit to. I wasn’t really a fan of getting up early on a Sunday morning,” he jokes.
Max holds a deep respect for the sport’s legacy. In particular, Ian Thorpe, one of the world’s greatest swimmers, is an idol of his. “To do what he did is super inspiring. His records are still standing from before I was born.” Eyes shifted to Max last December when he became the second-fastest Australian of all time to swim the 200-metre freestyle. The recordholder? Ian Thorpe.
Max is truly on his way to legend status, and he cannot wait to be part of the Australian Olympic swimming team. “It’s the most watched sport of the Olympics. I feel like everyone tunes in to watch the swimming.” Indeed, swimming is also Australia’s most successful sport at the Olympics, with 221 medals total, a number that will surely increase this year. The pressure is immense, but Max isn’t letting it get to him. “I just really hope to be able to be part of the legacy the team leaves behind this year.”
All year he’s been locked in, and that will continue until the Olympics are over. When he finally gets a break, though,
his plans are clear. “A whole heap of fishing. I can’t wait to get back to Tassie and fish for as long as I can.” His favourite spot? “Eaglehawk Neck, for sure,” he replies instantly.
For now, Max remains steadfastly focused on Paris, and he has high hopes for what the team will accomplish this year. “This year’s team is extremely good. I think we’ve got an opportunity to do something
WHERE TO WATCH THE OLYMPICS AND PARALYMPICS
The 2024 Olympic Games will take place in Paris. It will start on Friday 26 July and will continue for 19 days, ending with the closing ceremony on Sunday 11 August.
The Games will be broadcast in Australia on free-to-air channels under the Nine Network. You’ll also be able to watch on-demand
that’s never been done before as a team this year. I really hope I contribute to that as best as I can.”
The Olympics will see Max swimming for his country over 17,000km from home. He has worked incredibly hard for this goal. If only his younger self who dreamed of being an Olympian could see him now.
highlights for free after they’ve happened on the 9Now streaming platform.
Stan Sport will also broadcast all 329 Olympic events ad-free, live and on-demand, a first for Olympics coverage in Australia.
The 2024 Paralympic Games will also take place in Paris, and will run from Wednesday 28 August to Sunday 8 September. Exact broadcast details are yet to be revealed, so watch this space!
DINING OUT: MASAAKI’S SUSHI
17 Arve Road, Geeveston
On a recent Sunday morning we decided to head out for a drive and see where the road took us. Knowing the monthly Franklin Palais Market was on, we headed south. Our market stop netted us Yeastie Boys donut - not a traditional ‘hole’ donut but more of a crispy, chewy, fluffy blob of fried goodness, topped with raspberry jam, lemon drizzle or cinnamon, of which we got one flavour each. After a kick around on the oval we went further south to Geeveston for lunch at Masaaki’s Sushi. We’d eaten here some time ago, but he has since moved into his new premisesa larger space with seating.
At about midday the line was out the door. When we got to the glass cabinet filled with sushi, we each took a turn in ordering a selection of sushi rolls, nigiri, inari and pickles. But then the best bit - Masaaki will box it all up for you. In a matter of a couple of minutes, we each receive the prettiest box of sushi, sliced up, with a selection of pickles, condiments (we added the fresh wasabi option) and pickles ready to eat.
It was a sunny day so we took a seat along a concrete barrier to enjoy the sushi. It was high quality, beautifully sourced and prepared produce, and just a delight to eat. Afterward, I optimistically had ordered a slice of matcha cheesecake, which was excellent, but pushed me into “too full” territory. It’s a great please to take visitors or for a ‘drive and dine’ day out.
WINE: GHOST ROCK 2023 SUPERNATURAL PINOT NOIR
After attending the recent Winter Feast, the red lights and pagan iconography got me in an ooky spooky mood. So I ventured to the bottleshop with my mind on choosing the wine with the most spine-chilling label. The choice was clear and immediate. Ghost Rock’s 2023 Supernatural Pinot Noir’s ($34) label hauntingly depicts a fog-drenched forest, with a ghostly figure looming amidst the dark trees. It was so scary I had a heart attack, died, then came back as a ghost (editor’s note: this is not true). The name itself is also tinged with horror. Ghost! Supernatural! It suited the prompt perfectly.
Ghost Rock Wines, in the heart of the Cradle Coast (also known as North West Wine Region), aims to capture all that is untamed about this area. This pale cloudy pink wine tastes of all things blood-red: raspberry, strawberry, cherry. It’s underscored by a crisp acidity that lingers like a spectre.
I paired it with King Island Dairy cheddar cheese, a great match, though I couldn’t help but imagine how perfect it would be if I had some seafood with me. To set the mood I played the devilish rock tunes of Ghost, which wouldn’t be out of place in a Scooby-Doo chase scene. By the halfway point of the bottle I felt brave enough to go find my own ghost but alas, it was bedtime. I’ve marked my calendar to revisit this bottle come Halloween.
Set the vibe:
Wine: Supernatural
Pinot Noir from Ghost Rock
Music: Square Hammer by Ghost Food: Grilled flathead and greens
When: Late night
RECIPE: ROAST PUMPKIN AND TOMATO SOUP
Serves 4-5
This recipe takes your classic pumpkin soup and turns it up a notch. Roasty, toasty and totally perfect for the coming winter months. And the best part, it’s so easy.
Ingredients:
1kg of pumpkin (Butternut or Kent)
4 large tomatoes or a punnet of cherry tomatoes
1 red onion, quartered 3 cloves of garlic, whole and peeled
4 cups water or salt reduced chicken stock
4 tbsp olive oil
Fresh thyme
Salt and pepper
Method:
Preheat oven to 180 degrees. Peel and cut pumpkin and tomatoes into similar size chunks and add to a roasting pan with olive oil, salt, pepper, thyme, onions, garlic.
Roast for 20 minutes or until pumpkin is soft and tomatoes are caramelised. Transfer everything to a large pot with the water/ stock, then bring to the boil. Blitz with a stick blender or very carefully pour all ingredients into a blender and blitz until super smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. For a zesty twist, you can squeeze over quarter of a lemon and top with fresh parsley. You could also crumble some feta over the top or keep it classic with a swirl of sour cream. Serve immediately and enjoy with crusty bread.
THE TASSIE BOOK CLUB
The Woman Booker Prize Club is a local Hobart book club. Here they share their thoughts on books by Tasmanian authors, set in Tasmania, or about Tassie topics. Over to the club!
This month we dive into two beautiful stories about women, grief, and what happens after loss. Don’t be put off by the morose themes, these wonderful books are well worth adding to your reading lists and will make for perfect winter company.
Heartsease by Kate Kruimink (Picador Australia, May 2024)
Review by Kathryn Montgomery
Kate Kruimink has written my favourite sort of read: heartbreakingly sad, with witty one liners and a sharp focus on exploring moments in time between the characters. It’s about love, memory and grief and their ability to impact our perceptions.
The story centres on two sisters, Charlotte and Ellen, who meet at a silent retreat
in the Tasmanian countryside. Ellen’s storyline is told through a first person perspective leading up to a major event and an untimely death, while Charlotte’s is told through third person after the event. It is an incredible way to experience the story; suspense builds up in Ellen’s view, interspersed with the slow stumble unfolding afterwards in Charlotte’s.
It also explores the complicated grief the sisters hold after the death of their mother 18 years prior. While they have an acutely close relationship, the story hones in on the divide created between the sisters and the ways they have grieved. It unpacks the divergent paths they have taken after a huge loss and their realisation of the gaps between them. I found it wonderfully drew out reflections in me, which I thoroughly enjoy when reading.
Heartease is beautifully crafted, tender and thought-provoking. With rave reviews from other equally talented Tasmanian authors, do not miss reading this book!
Review by Emily Schade
What do the buildings we live in say about us? And as religion becomes a less prominent thread of our social tapestry, what fills those vacant ceremonial and spiritual spaces? Big questions indeed, that Amanda Lohrey seeks to answer in her latest novel, The Conversion.
We meet Zoe and her husband as they inspect a deconsecrated church in a mall town, interested in the possibility of converting it into their home. Zoe isn’t convinced they’ll be able to escape the building’s “churchiness” and lacks her husband’s passion for the project. But when he dies unexpectedly, leaving Zoe with complicated grief, she buys the building and picks up the project as a legacy.
More than a book about a renovation, The Conversion is a discussion about
how architecture can shape the lives we lead and how we see ourselves through our homes. If you’ve read Amanda’s award winning novel The Labyrinth, you’ll find similar themes and ideas here. This is a story that’s as easy to read as it is thought-provoking and would be an excellent book club read. Amanda is a treasure and I recommend adding this to your reading list.
Book Chatter: The biennial Tamar Valley Writers Festival is coming up, running from 11-14 October. ‘For the readers, the writers, the thinkers’, this year’s theme is Light in the Dark. A very exciting lineup includes headliner Markus Zusak (The Messenger, The Book Thief, Bridge of Clay), Benjamin Stevenson (Everyone in My Family Has Killed Someone), A.G. Slatter (All the Murmuring Bones), Kylie Moore-Gilbert (The Uncaged Sky), Minnie Darke (Star-crossed, With Love from Wish & Co) and more to be announced. Jump on the festival’s website at www.tamarvalleywritersfestival.com.au and sign up to the newsletter to be first in line for further program announcements and early bird tickets.
Keen to chat books with us? Find us on Instagram @thewomanbookerprizeclub or email thewbpc@gmail.com.
The Conversion by Amanda Lohrey (Text Publishing, Oct 2023)
MOUNTAIN RAMBLING: EXPLORING THE ORGAN PIPES TRACK
Words and picture: Elizabeth Osborne
A favourite walk on kunanyi / Mount Wellington is the Organ Pipes Track to The Chalet, via the Pinnacles Track.
This walk starts at The Springs. The track has a well-formed surface. Some gradual climbing is required, but this is not overly challenging. The views vary from overlooking the city centre and surrounding settlements, to spectacular long views of the Derwent Estuary.
As we walked, we observed the varied vegetation created by the diversity of micro climates. The track took us first through eucalypt forest, then as we ascended to a higher altitude, the subalpine woodlands gave way to more exposed dolerite rocks and less dense woodlands. In sheltered places, softly trickling streams are surrounded by ferns, lichens and mosses. We paused on the Pinnacle Track at the memorial to Joseph Mark Richards, who died whilst competing in a race to the Pinnacle in 1903; a reminder of the dangers of rapidly changing mountain
weather. After a reasonably steady climb for some 2km, we turned onto the Organ Pipes Track, winding through large boulders and over ancient rock falls. The red, pink, and white berries of cyathodes glaucea (cheeseberry shrub) glowed among the rocky slopes.
We felt the chill of the approaching winter when a thin mist covered the mountain. Then, the sun broke through, the clouds lifted, and the dramatic dolerite columns high above us were revealed in all their raw beauty. Far below, mist lay in the valleys of the distant river. We felt we had the world at our feet, invigorated by the fresh mountain air. We walked on to the shelter of The Chalet to enjoy our morning tea. After a short break, we retraced our steps to The Springs, exhilarated by the mountain wilderness, high above the bustle of the city.
Hobart’s Friday night market! 4:30pm - 9:00pm
BROOKE STREET PIER July 26, August 30, September 27
Returning on Friday Nov 1,
ZODIAC CHECK-IN: YOUR MONTHLY ASTRO UPDATE
Words: Sara Hewitt
Dive into the month ahead with practical star insights - your guide to navigating the cosmos this month.
Aries (21 Mar - 19 Apr): A big month for all matters to do with home and career, especially for those who have their own business or who are hoping for a promotion or new job really soon. There are great planetary energies for those Aries looking to buy a new home as the New Moon lights up your zone of houses with fresh potential. A very productive time for creativity and personal expression.
Taurus (20 Apr - 20 May): You are likely to have a lot on your mind through the first part of July as your mental zone is packed with planets all interacting with each other. Be mindful that you don’t create arguments through not getting enough rest and then feeling irritable and tired with the people around you. There are some lovely energies for family and everything to do with your home.
Gemini (21 May - 20 Jun): This is a great month for making a fresh start with your finances and budgets, especially if you have not been organised or structured with money in the past. Good luck and abundance planet Jupiter is still moving through Gemini, bringing a boost of positive energy and growth to your life and plans. Romance is highlighted for those Geminis in long distance relationships.
Cancer (21 Jun - 22 Jul): The New Moon in your sign on the 6th will give you the opportunity for making a positive new start in your personal goals and direction. Money is highlighted with the financial growth and abundance increasing the longer the month goes on, helping you to gain some welcome peace of mind. The Full Moon in your relationship zone on the 21st brings romantic bliss.
Leo (23 Jul - 22 Aug): The cosmic energy builds up as three planets move into your sign throughout the month, including Venus, planet of love and harmony. A fantastic time for really getting down and working out where you stand on certain issues, but also for making big decisions where love is concerned. Your working life is highlighted by positive energies from the Full Moon on the 21st.
Virgo (23 Aug - 22 Sep): Your friendship zone is highlighted with lots of fun time for the first part of the month, but towards the last week or so you may just want to curl up and hide away from it all and relax. Relationships and romance could cause a few headaches if you are not sure how the other person is feeling or if they are possibly doing something you don’t know about or like.
Libra (23 Sep - 22 Oct): Your public reputation comes into focus with the New Moon on the 21st - this can be really helpful and important if you are hoping to start a new career or get some kind of award. Your home life is equally highlighted by the second Full Moon in your home and family zone in a row - making this a great time for all family gatherings and also any real estate deals.
Scorpio (23 Oct - 21 Nov): Some of the pressure and stress you may have been feeling in your dealings with others recently will start to go away after the 21st which will make your day-to-day life a lot more peaceful and happier too. A positive time for making big or life changing decisions - but only if you need to follow your heart more than logic as your emotions will be very powerful.
Sagittarius (22 Nov - 21 Dec): Active and sometimes irritable Mars is moving into your relationship zone on the 21st which could make things a bit tense and stressful with your loved one if you have unresolved issues between you. Financially you are getting a second chance at growth and reaping the rewards of the past - just be aware that new opportunities may create more obligations.
Capricorn (22 Dec - 19 Jan): The second Full Moon in Capricorn in a row will happen on the 21st. This will give you
another chance to achieve something important to you or reach a milestone with someone close - even if you have failed in the past. Your relationship zone is highlighted with new beginnings, both for existing relationships and for those just starting out. Money is highlighted.
Aquarius (20 Jan - 18 Feb): Not the best time for reaching out and pushing yourself into the world of people and drama. Your best path this month is to take it easy in the background – planning your next moves for when the timing is better. Relationships with loved ones will experience some positive love energy and also better communication for when things get a bit tricky.
Pisces (19 Feb - 20 Mar): Be very cautious about overindulging in things that are bad for you this month – even though they might feel really good at the time. Bad habits are going to drag you down right now - especially if your social life is as busy as the planets are indicating. Your health may need some attention if you get run down or exhausted from doing far too much on too little sleep.
Sara is a Hobart based astrologer with over 30 years professional experience. If you would like a private psychic or astrology reading with Sara either face to face or by zoom or email, please go to www.stargold.com.au for more information and to book.
MONGOLIA
You’re invited to attend our Mongolia 2025 tour launch to meet with our Tour Designer and Escort, Cathi Burnett-Cosgrove, along with prospective fellow tour members.
The launch event is on Thursday 8th August 2024 at 6pm at a local Hobart venue.
THE SKY’S THE LIMIT
Words: Annia Baron
I have a dream. Years from now when my toddler is hanging out with his friends, his attention will be drawn by the skies and the tide. While everyone is standing there, occupied with their iPhones (which by then will likely be iBrainchips!), he’ll say, “Check it out, to the south! It’s the fastest living animal on earth, reaching speeds of up to 300kms when diving for its prey. Witness the great and wise Peregrine Falcon.”
When the internet surfaced in the 90s, everyone was blown away. The excitement and optimism spread fast. To be able to ask your computer questions and have it tell you the answers in seconds –phenomenal. So much goodness has come from the availability of information and the freedom it’s given us. But if you type social media and youth mental health into your browser, the story’s very different.
Psychologist and bestselling author Dr Jonathan Haidt describes 2010 to 2015 as “the great re-wiring of childhood.” Why? This is when app creators competed to make money from our attention. It’s when companies like Twitter and Facebook made popularity tools with ‘like’ buttons and when the front-facing camera initiated the selfie generation. When children began adopting a phone-based life, with access to social media platforms, there was a huge rise in mental health problems. Rates of depression among 12–17-year-olds in the United States rose by 150%1. Hospitalisations for adolescents in the UK rose exponentially2. And in Australia, young people themselves, are citing social media as their main reason for mental health issues3
Dr Haidt notes we rely on four elements of social interaction to thrive:
• Embodied communication: This is often spontaneous and involves
non-verbal cues that help us feel understood and validated.
• Synchronous: This means in realtime. The delay from online interaction causes us to miss out on important feedback, reducing our confidence to speak in ‘real life’.
• Playful versus performative: Usually, you know who you’re talking with and who’s listening. Whereas online, you don’t always know who’s watching, and communication has become more about performance.
• Community: We are tribal and need a solid social base. But if our interaction is predominantly online, switching between chat rooms with people we don’t know, avatars or fake names, we’re not going to feel truly connected.
Children flourish when playing and exploring in ways that include all the above. They bloom when immersed in nature versus when their thumbs are glued to devices. But every parent and caregiver should understand that this isn’t about blame. The correlation between smartphones and the decline of youth mental health is a worldwide problem. And the solution isn’t simply to take things away, it’s about finding ways we can give children back the play-based life they need.
People and organisations are doing cool things for growing minds. Screen-free daycare centres are popping up around the world and locally, initiatives like Free to Be Bush Play are encouraging a nature-focused path. Screenstrong.org provides tips and resources for empowering individuals and families in reducing screen time across all age groups. A few suggestions include:
• Make screen time interactive. Chat with your little one about what they’re viewing to help them make sense of what they’re being exposed to.
• Keep screens out of bedrooms. Kids don’t need to be entertained constantly. It’s healthy for them to learn how to tolerate boredom and create opportunities to make their own fun.
• Find something around the house that needs fixing. You can teach your child
the value of repairing versus buying something new to replace it.
• Involve children in cooking. They can create something that can be shared and that they can feel proud of.
• Use mealtime to ask your kids questions like “What’s the best memory you have of being a part of this family?” Or “If you had all the riches in the world, how would you choose to make people’s lives better?”
Change begins with us. Maybe start with asking yourself, “Does being online right now honour the person I want to be?” Yes or no, do what’s right for you. Perhaps by observing the skies more often, you’ll be greeted by the soaring wisdom keepers above, and be reminded that your presence online has nothing to do with how impressive you are in the world.
Remember, it’s not about depriving ourselves of the wonders that smart technology has gifted us. It’s about finding a balance that enables us to be better for those we care about. Let’s continue utilising the upside of technology. Let’s keep having important conversations about how to do things differently. This way, we’ll empower ourselves to live the life we and the younger generation deserve.
Annia Baron is a Clinical Psychologist and 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
Full references are available at www. thehobartmagazine.com.au.
Authorised by Vica Bayley & Helen Burnet, Parliament House Hobart, TAS, 7000. Photo: Karen Brown.
TASMANIAN HONOUR ROLL OF WOMEN
Words: Amanda Double
The Tasmanian Honour Roll of Women was established in 2005 by the Tasmanian Government “to honour Tasmanian women who have made an outstanding contribution to the State”, and enhance community awareness of their achievements and lasting impact. Nominations for consideration for the 2025 Honour Roll are currently being sought from organisations and individuals, and will close at midnight on Monday 30 September 2024.
Originally held annually, the induction ceremony was later changed to every two years. Tasmanian women and women’s organisations from all walks of life that have made a significant contribution in their field, either locally, nationally or internationally, can be nominated for induction onto the Honour Roll. They must be nominated by an individual or organisation other than themselves, and the nominator must be familiar with and able to elaborate upon the nominee’s achievements, providing supporting documents. There are no age restrictions for nominees - indeed, posthumous nominations are accepted as well. All will be assessed for inclusion by a Community Panel appointed through an Expressions of Interest process.
Novelist Marie Caroline Bjelke Petersen was added to the Honour Roll in 2009, “awarded for service to the Arts”, some 40 years after her 1969 death at the age of 94. Born in Jagtvejen near Copenhagen in 1874, Marie migrated to Tasmania with her family, arriving in Hobart in October 1891. (Fascinating fact - she was the aunt of Sir Joh Bjelke-Petersen, notorious Premier of Queensland from 1968-1987, who visited her here!) Initially Marie assisted her brother Christian in teaching physical education at Friends’ School and at Christian’s private Bjelke-Petersen School of Physical Culture, before ill health forced her to stop. She began writing, firstly religious tracts, and then
really came into her own when she began penning romance novels. She loved the natural beauty of Tasmania, and her vivid settings and descriptions delighted readers, with 250,000 copies of her books sold world-wide. Her most famous novel, Jewelled Nights (published in 1923) was turned into a silent film not long after, starring and directed by Australian actress Louise Lovely. It told the story of a bride who ran away to seek her fortune in the osmiridium mining fields of Savage River in Western Tasmania, dressed as a man. Only reconstructed fragments of the film remain, usually screened daily at the Gaiety Theatre in Zeehan (although not currently as a television series is using the theatre for filming). In 1935 Marie was awarded the King’s Jubilee medal for services to literature.
Her Honour Roll biography notes that “Marie Bjelke Petersen lived an independent and successful life full of achievements that were rare for a woman of her era. She remained a proud Tasmanian until her death on 11 October 1969.”
A much more recent inductee, added to the Tasmanian Honour Roll of Women last year, is Ros Escott, “for service to volunteering and health”. Born in Melbourne, Ros jokes that “after having lived here for 40 years, being on the Honour Roll means I can now finally claim I’m officially Tasmanian!” She is particularly appreciative of this honour, as it seems to her to recognise the volunteers, the “quiet achievers”.
Ros has made outstanding contributions in several different fields. She has been a volunteer breastfeeding counsellor, educator and advocate with the Australian Breastfeeding Association since 1987, and with Breastfeeding Coalition Tasmania since its inception in 1996. She has volunteered with the WHO/UNICEF Baby Friendly Health Initiative since 1995, and co-wrote the Australian Baby Friendly Health Initiative Standards to assess breastfeeding practices in maternity and community facilities. What’s more, as a historian with a special interest in convict women, she has also volunteered in various roles with the Female Convicts Research Centre (which was
itself inducted onto the Honour Roll as an organisation in 2017) and Convict Women’s Press; and as a family history researcher she has a particular interest in using DNA analysis to help people identify previously unknown family members, establishing the Tasmanian Family History Society’s DNA Interest Group in 2015 to help facilitate this.
In 2023, Ros was honoured as a Member of the Order of Australia for her service to women’s health and to the community, and she was also a nominee and finalist for 2024 Senior Australian of the Year for Tasmania (for which Founder of Colony 47, Reverend Jim Colville, was the eventual successful Tasmanian awardee).
In speaking of the Honour Roll inductees as a whole, Minister for Women The Hon Jo Palmer MLC commented in the introduction to the 2023 commemorative booklet that “whilst each inductee is unique, a shared thread through all of these stories is a deep sense of generosity and service to others, and courage. Courage to be the helper who doesn’t stand by, courage to try something new, courage to stand up for what is right.”
The official website reiterates the importance of continuing to celebrate these important contributions: “The Honour Roll stimulates community involvement in the processes of research and discovery about women’s historical and contemporary contributions to Tasmania, ensuring these achievements are given full recognition and not forgotten in the passage of time.”
Full details are available at www.women.tas.gov.au.
“Charli is obsessed with Benny. She adores him and giggles “stinky poo stinky Benny”. - Olivia
A JOURNEY ACROSS CANADA, ONE HOOFBEAT AT A TIME
Born and raised in the serene Upper Derwent Valley, a sanctuary she still calls home, horse enthusiast Stef Gebbie now stands on the other side of the planet. Literally. Amid the vast expanse of Canada, the second-largest country in the world, Stef is embarking on a mighty exhibition: a journey spanning over 6000 km on horseback, a staggering number that puts Burke and Wills to shame.
She is not alone. Accompanying her are two steadfast companions: Jack, a gentle paint quarter horse, and Wilson, a spirited morgan cross rescue. The trio have yet to find their groove. They were all strangers to each other when they first set out. “We’re still building trust and that takes time,” Stef says. “We don’t yet have the teamwork. I’m sure that will change over the next few thousand kilometres.” Just a few weeks into this eight-month journey, there have already been unexpected setbacks. Case in point: they were originally a group of five.
Stef was joined by close friend Ella Ballhausen, and a sevenyear-old Canadian mare named Freddo. “Unfortunately several days into the ride we had a bit of a misadventure,” says Stef. That’s putting it mildly. Ella and Jack received injuries that had them leave the trail for several weeks. Stef continued with Wilson and Freddo until bad luck struck again - a collision with a motorcycle left Freddo injured, requiring weeks of recovery.
Ella has since stepped back from the exhibition, Freddo was transported safely back home, and Jack rejoined Stef and Wilson. And then there were three.
None of this has deterred Stef. Far from an amateur, she traversed Australia on horseback in 2019. She understands that the key to success lies not in meticulous planning, but in embracing the uncertainty of each day with an open mind. “There’s really only so much planning you can do when on the road with horses. The world is no longer designed for horse travel, and it is without doubt the most difficult way to travel,” she says. “Even when things go wrong, staying calm is the only way to solve problems.” The main risk Stef always keeps in mind is high speed motorised traffic. She and the horses spend many days on the open road, so vehicles are a constant threat.
Stef knew very little about Canada before planning this journey. In fact, her original plan was to cross the United States, but getting a visa for the required length of time was too difficult. So Canada it was, but there comes its own problem: a large chunk of Canadians speak French, and Stef does not. “I miss out on a lot of those fun and interesting exchanges with people,” she admits.
Despite this, Stef and her long-faced companions have been met with open arms by locals. “I have experienced more kindness and hospitality here than anywhere else in my life.” She’s also been in constant awe of Canada’s beauty. From the forested Appalachian Mountain ranges of Northern New Brunswick to the heritage townships of Eastern Quebec.
The fauna she must contend with are very different to the snakes and insects back home in the Derwent Valley. “There are moose
and black bears in the woods here.” But Stef isn’t too worried about an attack. The greater risk is actually the potential of these large animals giving poor Jack and Wilson a fright.
Surprisingly, Stef finds the most notable difference between Canada and home to be the lack of fences. This makes it difficult to know whether land is public or private. “You have to ask permission to camp almost every day. People are generally happy to accommodate, but it takes extra energy, especially with the language barrier,” she says.
“I’ve had some amazing dinners with the kind people who have hosted us, from moose steaks to Poutine and everything in between!” When it’s just herself, though, food is primarily cereal and pasta. Nice and simple. The journey was tough on her at first, but her body has gotten used to riding. She unwinds each day with a cup of tea, watching the horses happily graze. “A great way to relax.”
There is still so long to go, but Stef is keeping her eyes on the mission. “I think a super important part of any long expedition is staying present - not thinking about what could happen or what should have happened or the comforts of home, but just taking each week and each unexpected event as it comes.” Still, she can’t help but miss her four-legged loved ones back home. When she returns, the first thing she’s going to do is squish their horsey faces. “I miss my Australian horses so very much.”
For now, though, she rides, with Jack and Wilson by her side, under the Canadian summer heat, with thousands of kilometres ahead of them.
ART, ANCESTORS, AND THE AEOLIAN ISLANDS
Joshua Santospirito is a multimedia artist, musician, and comics author. He’s just released his third graphic novel, The Islands Where We Left Our Ancestors. It’s an autobiographical tale aimed at adults about his visit to the Aeolian Islands of Italy with his parents, where he sought out past connections and family roots. We chatted to him about his book and upcoming tour.
Where did you grow up and where is home now? I grew up in suburban Melbourne and, as an adult, lived in Sydney and Alice Springs before moving to Nipaluna / Hobart in 2008.
How did you get the idea to make this book? Whilst working on my first graphic novel in 2008 I was challenged by friends to explore my own cultural heritage. I began paying closer attention to my Dad’s investigations into genealogical roots in the Aeolian Islands, Italy. Despite never having identified strongly as “ItalianAustralian”, the historical detective work that Dad was engaged in began to interest me. I also realised that a story about travelling with my parents back to the islands could be quite an entertaining vehicle for an exploration of the history of human migration, which is exactly what The Islands Where We Left Our Ancestors eventually became.
What are the challenges of adapting your own life experiences to graphic novel form? Stories are always challenging to create and I take my hat off to anyone who attempts it. They often need some level of tension in them to be entertaining so when writing an autobiographical story like Ancestors this required revealing some family conflict or gossip. As you can imagine this meant causing some anxiety for the people that this relates to in the real world, such as my parents. There were several drafts of the book as I tried to navigate the tension
between what the story needed and not completely mortifying my family, but they all have a great sense of humour (which I got from them) and I think I found the balance.
Why do you think stories about place and belonging attract us? I published a previous graphic novel on the topic of migration in 2015 and many people read it and then contacted me to tell their own family migration story. It was amazing, almost like we were trading stories. Exploring stories that occur in a place seems to be a universal way to understand those places and to understand ourselves, like a mnemonic code or a shorthand.
What aspects of living here influence your art? Landscape is something that informs a lot of art here, including mine. The rugged mountains in the West, and the isolation of the Furneaux group has heavily influenced two different series of paintings and drawings that I’ve made in the last few years. The flat line of the ocean horizon that surrounds our island home is referenced a few times in this book.
Your upcoming book tour includes an audiovisual performance inspired by the book. Can you tell us more about this? Projecting the art from the book with live storytelling and music is an extremely fun way to experience
the book. In fact, it is not like a book at all, it’s more like theatre and live music combined with the experience of reading comics. I’m lucky enough to be performing with my friend Natalya Bing; an amazing classical violinist who completely captivates audiences. I’ve done this sort of performance with previous works and I am always amazed by how quickly the audience is sucked in.
When and where can Tasmanians see your book tour? The Islands Where We Left Our Ancestors comes out nationally through Scribe Publications on 2 July in those wonderful bookstores that stock graphic novels. In Hobart the book will be launched by Nunami Sculthorpe-Green at the Long Gallery on Friday 12 July, 6pm, with an exhibition of art from the book. In August the storytelling audiovisual performance will tour around Tasmania to 9b Studios in New Norfolk, PressWEST in Queenstown, Devonport Regional Gallery and The Hive in Ulverstone.
JAPANESE RECONNAISSANCE FLIGHT OVER HOBART IN 1942
Words and pictures: W. Dearing from the Tasmanian Aviation Historical Society
The Yokosuka E14Y (Allied reporting name ‘Glen’) was an Imperial Japanese Navy reconnaissance seaplane transported aboard and then launched from Japanese submarine aircraft carriers such as the I-25 during World War II.
The E14Y was used for several Japanese reconnaissance missions during the Pacific War including this one over Hobart.
In February 1942 the Japanese submarine I-25, under the command of Captain Meiji Tagami, was off the northern tip of King Island in Bass Strait, where an E14Y was launched on a reconnaissance flight. The pilot, Warrant Flying Officer Nobuo Fujita and the observer/gunner Shoji Okuda, completed a recce flight in their “Glen” float plane over Melbourne and Port Phillip Bay from the submarine on 26 February 1942. They were airborne for three hours, during which time they successfully flew over Port Phillip Bay and observed the ships at anchor off Melbourne before returning to land on the aircraft’s floats beside the submarine, where it was winched aboard and disassembled.
Captain Tagami then pointed Japanese submarine I-25 back down the coast of Tasmania travelling on the surface. They decided to initiate a further reconnaissance flight from Great Oyster Bay which is located about halfway up the east coast of Tasmania. The bay is about 35 kms long by 15 kms wide and is protected by the red granite cliffs and steep headlands of the Freycinet Peninsula and Schouten Island. Tagami brought I-25 into the large bay under a full moon.
Fujita decided to take off from the water rather than use the catapult on the front deck of the submarine and the “Glen” floatplane was withdrawn from the waterproof hanger at the front of the submarine, assembled, and lifted into the water. Two hours before dawn, Fujita and Okuda were heading south for Hobart. Once he was well south of Cape Pillar, Fujita turned north west and went around the Tasman Peninsula. He then made another sharp turn and approached Hobart from a southerly direction.
With the full moon, they could easily spot all the fishing boats and coasters on the Derwent River. They spotted the glow of a furnace at a foundry and saw a white concrete road leading away from Hobart. They could see Mount Wellington looming over the beautiful city of Hobart
and also saw five cargo ships at anchor but no warships.
Fujita retraced his course back to the submarine arriving back just after dawn. As they were preparing to lift the aircraft onto the deck of the submarine, Tsukudo spotted a small freighter steaming southwards. After some anxious moments it became apparent that the steamer had not seen the Japanese submarine and Hobart’s World War 2 incident came to an end.
Adventure of a lifetime @junphotographs
Friday night drinks on the Derwent Ferry by Shelley Parkinson
Foggy mornings @tasmaniawhyweloveit
Autumn at Brisbane Street @junrenfilms
Mornings in Dunalley @theseaisformephotography
Wedge-tail Eagle @theseaisformephotography
Strahan by Sammie Saltmarsh
Whimsical sign by Elizabeth Osborne
South Arm skies by Mary Harwood
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