38ISSUE2022:SEPTEMBER/MAGAZINEHOBARTTHEWWW.THEHOBARTMAGAZINE.COM.AU THE TASMANIAN ECHIDNAS VOLLEYBALL TEAM ENTERS THE NATIONAL COMP TURNING PRINT INTO SOUND: PRINT RADIO TASMANIA SEPTEMBER EVENTS + MORE CASSIDYOLIVER HOBART FRANKLINRETRACINGFILMMAKERAFATHER’SRIVERJOURNEYINNEWDOCO NEWS FROM YOUR COMMUNITY INDEPENDENT + LOCAL FREE! MOSTAFA FARAJI: EX-SOCCEROO CRAIG FOSTER HELPS HOBART REFUGEE HEAL THROUGH ART
2 177a Channel Highway, Taroona For Sale offers over $950,000. 7 Bed 3 Bath 7 Car The sky’s the limit for this exciting property, whether you’re searching for your next renovation project (STCA), a low-maintenance investment or a large family home with show-stopping river views. Currently configured as two self-contained and tenanted flats, the property returns $690 gross per week with the current lease in place until December 2022. Both dwellings have their own outdoor areas, storage, laundries and there’s also ample parking. With a generous 1078sqm lot and a dream location it’s hard to go past the appeal of this one-of-a-kind opportunity. SMS 177AChannel to 0488 800 269 for further details. 101 Channel Highway, Kingston Starting from mid $600,000 1/220 Davey Street, South Hobart For Sale offers over $495,000 2-3 Beds 1-2 Bath 1 Car landvarioussize 120 & 141 sqm 2022/23Build 2 Bed 1 Bath 1 Car 67Landsqm 67 Buildingsqm Build1970 • Brand new quality builds • North facing with Mountain views • Walking distance to local amenities • Double glazing with quality fittings and fixtures • Across the road from Fitzroy Gardens • Ground accessApartmentfloorlevel • Coveted position close to shoppingtheprecinct & conveniences Register your interest via rorie.auld@au.knightfrank.com SMS 1-220Davey to 0488 800 269 for further details. 5 Victoria Street, Hobart 7000 P: 03 6220 6999 knightfrank.com.auRorie M Auld 0413 887 009 rorie.auld@au.knightfrank.comroriemauld_knightfrankFor a confidential discussion contact:
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Future is With with Q5 The Audi Q5 Sportback. See beyond. Book your drive today at Audi Centre Hobart 152-170 Campbell Street, Hobart | Tel. 6238 3344 | audicentrehobart.com.au Overseas model with optional shown. LMCT3060
an attitude
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Spring is here and my goodness, we’re so pleased about the prospect of longer days, more colour in the garden, hopefully better weather and generally, a cold weight being lifted! This month we spoke to filmmaker, conservationist and musician Oliver Cassidy about his film, Franklin. It follows his journey down the Franklin River retracing the steps of his late father who protested the damming of the river in the 1980s. We also talked to Mostafa Faraji about his incredible journey as a refugee from Iran to Hobart and how art and writing is helping him work through trauma. And of course, there’s community news, events and lots of other juicy articles to enjoy. Have a great month! Steph, James and The Hobart Magazine team.
stunning, coupé-like design, combined
Sportback will draw you in before sending you into the future.
Editorial Stephanie editor@thehobartmagazine.com.auWilliams
WELCOME TO THE HOBART MAGAZINE
test
equipment
Contributors: Taylor Stevenson, Lily Whiting, Sarah Aitken, Annia Baron, Laura Cini, Ada Lester. Cover image: Supplied. This page: Tourism Australia. Publisher Information: While all care has been taken, some information may have changed since publication. The Hobart Magazine regrets it can’t accept liabilities from errors or omissions contained in this magazine. The publisher reserves the right to refuse, withdraw or amend all advertisements without explanation. Reproduction in whole or part without permission is prohibited. The views expressed in articles and adver tisements are not endorsed by the editor or publishers. We welcome any questions, feedback or submissions, email editor@thehobartmagazine.com.au.
Advertising James 0405advertise@thehobartmagazine.com.auMarten424449
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Nicola and Holly MasonSuperfine merino wool fashion. It’s cool to wear wool all year Tasmanianround.owned and Tasmanian made www.smittenmerino.com Phone: 03 6212 0197 | Free Shipping Australia Wide Flagship Boutique | 47 Sandy Bay Rd | Battery Point Wear Classic Merino all
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The most fundamental one is develop ing a connection to who we are behind the labels, the filters, and the noise of everyday life. We begin to build a sustainable sense of calm which allows you to move out of fight-flight mode and your parasympathetic nervous system. To begin, finish reading this and then pop a timer on for three minutes and close your eyes and breathe deeply. If your mind wanders, that’s fine - it’s all part of the process of releasing stress. I’d encour age anyone to come and learn with me, learning in person is a great opportunity to build a sustainable daily practice. What do you love doing outside work? I love walking, whether that’s on the Organ Pipes track on kunanyi, a Sunday morning stroll at Park Beach or an overnight adventure. Reading a good book and cooking for friends are also high on the list. Who do you admire? My partner, Christoph. His big heart and playfulness make me laugh. I admire his ability to be his truest self.
Your favourite place in Hobart for… Breakfast: Sunbear Cafe.
Lunch: Grabbing a selection of things from cafes like Bury Me Standing, Collide Wholefoods and a cuppa from Staple Coffee and heading to the Botanical Gardens for a picnic.
Dinner: Templo. Parting words? If you have a parent in your life, make an extra serving of dinner tonight, pop it in the freezer and deliver it when you have time. This small act of kindness can make the world of difference. You can follow Laura on Instagram at @lauraatilley or head to www.ourmoth ership.com.au and www.thehalfbetween. com.
Combining work as a cook, doula and meditation teacher, Laura Tilley helps people to connect back to themselves and others.
Where did you grow up and where do you live now? I grew up in West Hobart and at Eaglehawk Neck. I now live between the two in sunny Carlton River. Tell us a little about your work? My work is centred around connection, whether that’s with self, community, food, or family. I teach meditation, this is for anyone with a desire to connect back to themselves and to remember a pace of slowness. This year I’ve been moving into my work as a doula supporting and providing empowering and heart-centred care for birthing people and their families. And the food layer is Our Mothership, a delivery service with my beautiful friend Lily where we support families with home-cooked food delivered around Hobart. Is there a common thread between being a cook, doula and meditation teacher? Yes, working as a doula and a meditation teacher is all around connect ing and guiding humans back to their true self. It’s also around creating spaces for my clients to soften, unfold and ignite that fire that’s within them. Helping someone collect all the pieces of themselves and put them back together, it’s honouring the full human experience that doesn’t fit in a box with labels like most of us have grown up with. Food weaves through all of them, we can’t do any of this big, deep work without nourishing and comforting support without it. I always come back to - Food first, always. Whether I’m teaching you to meditate, we’re heading into the birth space or having a postpar tum session together, there will always be good food first!
Favourite podcast or tv show? I spend lots of time driving, so some of my favourite podcasts are On Being, The Midwives’ Cauldron, Offline and Unemployed & Afraid. Secret vice? When I buy fuel on our expenses card I also slip in a vegan magnum at the servo! What are you reading now? We just finished All My Mothers by Joanna Glen for book club - a beautiful story about belonging and challenges our ideas around motherhood. What gets your goat? An unwiped kitchen bench. What was your first job? I grew up in retail. My family owned the local surf shops so as a young teenager I’d help by opening the change room doors during the busy Christmas season. What are your daily news/social media habits? As I’m sure we have all evaluated our habits in the last few years, I’ve been trying (and sometimes not working!) to have limited social media scrolling before 9am and then after 8pm.
LOCAL PEOPLE
6 LAURA TILLEY Interview: Stephanie Williams Picture: Cassie Sullivan
How can people best support the mothers in their lives? Don’t under estimate the power of a home-cooked meal on a mother’s doorstep. Putting on a load of washing when you are in their home. Offering to care for other family members. Send a message or a call, listening with non-judgemental support. Dropping off a coffee on your way to work. Ordering a Mothership package for the family. Taking their dog for a walk. Postpartum care for mothers and birthing people saves lives, it prevents break downs, it opens hearts and is so deeply important to bring this care back into communities. What are the benefits of meditation?
Favourite team? I support the West Coast Eagles and keep up with the Aussie Cricket and Volleyball team, but I don’t follow any sport closely. I find it difficult to watch, as I have no bearing on the outcome.
Josh Thorpe was introduced to volleyball purely because he was a tall teenager. Having represented Australia and now, as a member of the Tasmanian Echidnas, it’s the first year in his lifetime that a Tasmanian team will participate in the Australian Volleyball League.
What do you love doing outside work? I love spending time outside. Waterskiing, walking my dogs, hiking, going to the beach. I also love playing sports and happen to be part of the Tasmanian Echidna Volleyball team. It has always been a substantial part of my life and I don’t know what I would do without it. How did you get into volleyball? A family friend took me to training when I was 13, purely because I was tall. Back then, Tim Medwin ran a junior develop ment program out of Elizabeth College. He was so engaging and made training so much fun that I couldn’t say no. As I got better, Tim worked really hard to provide me with opportunities to take my volley ball outside of Tasmania and Australia.
Favourite podcast or tv show? Archer. The writing is phenomenal. Fast-paced, witty dialogue. Brilliant references and a large amount of toilet humor – essential for my childish side. Secret vice? Chocolate. I have zero self-control around any kind of chocolate, I will eat until I’m sick if left to my own devices.
Your favourite place (in Hobart) for… Breakfast: Whisk in Lenah Valley or Currency in Lindisfarne. Lunch: I’m not a big ‘out for lunch’ person. Dinner: It’s a tie between Frank and Syra. Two different styles of food, but fantastic quality and I’m always full when I leave!
You’ve played 100 games for Australia and played professionally in Europe.
Who do you admire? No one person comes to mind. There are many that I have looked up to, and that have taught me essential life lessons. I really respect those who take time out of their day to help others, regardless of the situation.
LOCAL PEOPLE
When can readers catch the Echidnas in action this season? We’re hosting three rounds of the Australian Volleyball League this year in Hobart. Each round consists of one game for the men and one game for the women on each of Saturday and Sunday. Starting on 8 October at the Moonah Sports Stadium against Adelaide Storm.
Where did you grow up and where do you live now? I grew up in Hobart, on the Eastern Shore. I left after college to pursue a career in volleyball, and stayed away for around 10 years. I moved back in 2013 and have loved being back home again. Tell us a little about your work? I’m an emergency services worker. It can be an incredibly stressful environment to be in, but everyone does the best they can with what they have. It has been very reward ing and fulfilling when you know you’re able to help someone that really needs it.
What does that kind of experience mean for the Tasmanian team? I’ve been lucky enough to learn from some phenomenal coaches and players from all over the world and I’ve taken on as much of their knowledge as possible. I have good technical knowledge of the skills and tactical approaches to the game, so I am excited to share this with the Tasmanian teams so we can be prepared for playing against the best in Australia.
He’s a huge factor in the career I was able to have and I’ll always be grateful to him.
What’s the volleyball scene in Tasmania like? There is a small, committed commu nity here filled with good people that love the sport. It’s really friendly and welcom ing, with people that will do anything to help you get involved and improve. We have a strong history of junior develop ment, social level competitions and local and state league adult competitions. Elite competition has previously been a gap in the structure, so that’s where the Tasmanian Echidnas stepped in five years ago. 2022 is the first year in my lifetime that a Tasmanian team will participate in the Australian Volleyball League, the highest level in Australia. It’s been a lot of work, but I’m really hopeful that we can establish ourselves as a permanent fixture in this competition and provide a stable pathway for young kids who are interested in the sport. Volleyball is also one of the most gender equal sports on the planet, This is refreshing to see and is really reflected in the attitudes of the athletes when around each other.
What are you reading now? I’ve been reading a lot of Harlan Coben recently. I love the way he constructs mysteries and their resolutions. I read a few of his books when I was younger, and was turned back onto them after watching adaptations of Stay Close and Safe on Netflix. What was your first job? Sanity. It was really popular when I was younger, not so much anymore. What are your daily news/social media habits? I read the news every day. I’m not particularly active on social media beyond keeping up-to-date with friends and family.
8 JOSH THORPE Interview: Stephanie Williams Picture: Facebook
The flowers are blooming, the snow is melting and suddenly the world seems a little more alive! It’s time to explore, and perhaps you need some help finding new haunts. Top of our list is Ogee (374 Murray Street, Hobart), a brand new sibling to Sonny. The euro-bistro and Italian-inspired restaurant is set to open on Thursday 15 September, with seats for 24 guests, walk-in only. Owner and chef Matt Breen said Ogee naturally aligned with his vision of creating another space more focused on a slower paced dining experience. “My vision for Ogee is to continue to create simple, honest food that is full of flavour but not overly complicat ed. Guests can naturally expect the same fun and high energy that Sonny creates, yet with a more formal and longer dining approach. We want guests to continue to feel like they are being welcomed into our home for the evening.” This will be the third hospitality venue from Breen, who was the owner and ex-chef at Templo and currently operates Sonny and now Ogee. Middle-eastern food lovers have their work cut out for then with the opening of a few new hot spots. El Sultan (358 Elizabeth Street, North Hobart) has you covered with charcoal chicken and kebabs seven days a week. Liverpool Kebabs (135 Liverpool Street, Hobart) has those naughty cravings whether it be a lazy lunch or a snack at the end of an evening. Richmond visitors will be happy to see Czegs Hobart (91 Murray St, Hobart TAS 7000) open up at the State Library, offering up lunches, toasties, coffee and everything in between. The Migrant Resource Centre cafe (1A Anfield Street, Glenorchy) has reopened after a little covid hiatus, open Wednesday to Sat urday for brunch with a delicious menu to match. Popular Asian-eatery Cyclo Vietnamese Restaurant can now also be found on Main Road Moonah as well as their OG North Hobart location. An eclectic emporium, The Dusty Mermaid (2217 Arthur Highway, Copping) has ar rived in Copping and has brought Orlan do Plenty with them! Shop unique pieces of clothing and furniture with a coffee or baked treat in hand! There’s a grassy area beside the 1970s retro fit caravan or grab some food-fuel for a big day adventuring! Domaine A Winery cellar door has had an opulent new fit out, head to the Coal River Valley for a fabulous tasting in a very MONA-esque setting. Eastern Shore locals have a new fresh hub with Glebe Hill Village Shopping Centre (Pass Rd & Rokeby Rd, Howrah) opening last month, complete with one of everything! Above Dangerfield in the city lies a new space for Deadly Sisu (Level 1/79 Collins Street, Hobart), home of all things vin tage, up-cycled, handmade and reloved! Pick up a new crock pot or dinnerware at Kitchen & Bed (117 Liverpool Street, Hobart). SPR Conditioning (237 Eliza beth Street, Hobart) has a new permanent home in Hobart, make an appointment to work on injury recovery or on levelling up your training, you’ll have a whale of a time with head trainer Sam!
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Congratulationsthehobartmagazine.com.auonanother inter esting, entertaining and informative production! I read everything and learned a whole lot of stuff that I hadn’t heard about! The pets article (Pet Rental Woes, THM, August 2022), we certainly need to tweak the tenants’ law. But one wonders why we always seem to have to reinvent things...Surely we could just copy VIC who seem to have it sorted. As do other states I heard. One suggestion would be that owners/agents meet said pets first and try to assess their behaviour and how they have lived. Shouldn’t expect to let them in sight unseen and behaviour untested. Also make the bond significant. Ann, Hobart INBOX
TASMANIAN FEMALE HISTORY PRIZE
NEW OPENINGS
The biography of a little known but leading female Tasmanian contemporary artist has won one of Australia’s most significant history book awards. Dr Alison Alexander won the $25,000 Dick and Joan Green Family Award for Tasmanian History, for works that make a significant contribution to your understanding of Tasmania’s past, for her book The Waking Dream of Art: Patricia Giles, Painter. Dr Alexander said Patricia Giles inspired people with “a love of the Tasmanian landscape, almost the Tasmanian soul, which she showed so well in her water colours.” A seventh-generation Tasma nian, Dr Alexander is the editor of The Companion to Tasmanian History and has written 35 historical works about Tas mania. “There have been many women artists in Tasmania’s history, there’s not much been written about them, so this is a way of showing that Patricia at least receives her due,” Dr Alexander said. “Art is really vital to our lives and vital to history.” Got something to get off your chest? Let us know at editor@
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The new Tasmanian Writers and Illus trators Mentorship Program offers local writers the chance to connect with nation al publishing networks. Developed by the Australian Society of Authors (ASA) with Arts Tasmania, the program will connect 20 Tasmanian authors and illustrators with a professional mentor, to guide them in preparing a manuscript to a publishable standard. Applications for the 2022 Tas manian Writers and Illustrators Mentor ship Program are open now, closing on 19 September. For more information, and to apply, visit gram.tas-writers-illustrators-mentorship-prowww.asauthors.org/services/
TASSIE CHILD AND ADOLESCENT MENTAL HEALTH HOPES
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WIN TICKETS + ACCOMMODATION TO SEE TERRAPIN’S NEW THEATRE SHOW SCAREDY CAT
You can win a special Hobart staycation family weekend at the theatre with The Hobart Magazine, Terrapin, Theatre Royal, The Old Woolstore and Fullers Bookshop! We’re giving away a family ticket to see Terrapin’s new show Scaredy Cat at the Theatre Royal in the October school holidays, plus a night’s accommo dation next door at The Old Woolstore and a voucher to use at Fullers Bookshop. To enter, all you need to do is subscribe to Terrapin’s eNews at www.terrapin.org.au/ subscribe before Sunday 18 September. Plus for an extra entry into the draw, tag someone (or multiple someones!) in the comments on our competition post on The Hobart Magazine’s Instagram and Face book. Good luck! Full T&Cs are available on our website.
TASSIE’S JEWISH POPULATION INCREASES BY FIFTY PERCENT Did you know Tasmania’s Jewish commu nity is growing at a rapid rate? The most recent Census results showed that most Aussie states recorded a small increase in their Jewish population, whereas Tasma nia saw a 50% increase, from 248 in 2016 to 376 in 2021. We are, of course, home to Australia’s two oldest synagogues - the Hobart Hebrew Congregation and the Launceston Synagogue, both built in the 1800s. With a recent influx of younger families in the area, the synagogue in Hobart is now offering a monthly Jewish studies program for young children, called ‘cheder’, for the first time in many years.
NEW BOOST FOR TASSIE WRITERS AND ILLUSTRATORS
The Department of Health and the Uni versity of Tasmania have joined forces to try to improve child, adolescent and other mental health service offerings across Tasmania. The new Centre for Mental Health Service Innovation will lead reform in the state, embedding research, education and training across services and delivery as part of the Tasmanian Mental Health Reform Program. “There is a sig nificant increase in demand for child and adolescent mental health services across the State,” Professor Denise Fassett, Uni versity of Tasmania Executive Dean of the College of Health and Medicine said. “The Centre will assist to respond to this demand by ensuring the best processes, practices and systems are in place to meet the needs of Tasmanian children, adoles cents and their families.” she said.
DOGS ON CANVAS IN CLARENCE Get your doggy-inspired art in for this year’s Poochibald…that’s the Archibald Awards for pet lovers. Now in its tenth year, the City of Clarence’s beloved exhi bition coincides with their Dog’s Day Out and Waggy Dog Tales (a kids animation workshop). Anyone can submit a piece of art - it could be a painting, a sculpture, drawing or print - with entries exhibited in adult, kids and junior categories. Enter by September 18, head to www.ccc.tas. gov.au for entry forms and information.
promise something for everyone. Central Highlands Tasmania centralhighlands.tas.gov.au/Bothwell Bi-Centenary Festival 2022 #bothwellbicentennialfest Commemorating 200 years
BOTHWELL Bicentennial
achievements,
and reconnect. To
Bothwell, nestled in the heart of Tasmania invites you to nudge your sense of time, to journey, explore, visit, be held across the weekend of 15 & 16 October, the Bicentennial Festival will commemorate the town, surrounds, places, spaces, stories, history, collections, the wild and the woolly, the unique ideas that make Bothwell what it is today. are a past resident, avid golfer, first-time visitor, history buff, vintage car festivities
Festival 15 & 16 October 1822 - 2022
Whether you
and
enthusiast, or an adventurer seeking new experiences; the weekends
STUDY INTO VIOLENCE AGAINST CHILDREN IN SPORT REVEALS SHOCK NUMBERS
Indoor plants. Cute, while purifying air. Millions of baby oysters have been shipped from Tassie to help growers whose harvests have been decimated by QX disease. The cost of Bunnings sausages has gone up to $3.50 a snag.
New family violence reforms in Tasmania have extended the definition of consent to include stealthing.
Non-fatal strangulation, choking and suffocation are now stand-alone crimi nal offences in Tasmania thanks to new family violence reforms, recognising that those acts constitute a significant form of violence and can be a precursor for escalation in the severity of family violence. Stealthing has now been add ed to an extended definition of consent.
Scomo’s sneaky portfolio business.
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The variance of fuel prices across Hobart. It’s worth shopping around to find the best value pumps in Hobart.
A new national study has found a sig nificant amount of violence is perpe trated against children in community sport in Australia. The study surveyed 886 respondents across 68 different sports and revealed that 82% reported experiencing some form of violence in community sport as a child. Most people had experienced psychological (76%) and physical violence (66%) while more than one third experienced sexual violence (38%). Peers were the most frequent perpetrators of any form of violence, with 73% of respondents indicating they had experienced some form of this. Violence perpetrated by a coach (60%) and by a parent (35%) were also commonly reported. Gender diverse individuals reported some of the highest rates of violence. The study, titled Experiences of Violence Against Children in Australian Community Sport, can be viewed at www.vu.edu.au.
TASMANIAN MOTORBIKE SAFETY: HAVE YOUR SAY
FREE CLOTHES, WITH DIGNITY
There’s an opportunity to have your say on how we can all make motorbike riders more safe on our roads, with the Road Safety Advisory Council (RSAC) reviewing the Tasmanian motorcyclist graduated licensing system. Motorcy clists are extremely vulnerable road users and are overrepresented in crashes in Tasmania, accounting for around a third of serious crashes in 2021. Learner and provisional motorcyclists are partic ularly vulnerable - in the last ten years, learner motorcyclists were involved in approximately ten times more casualty crashes than fully licensed riders. Over the past few years, the motorcyclist graduated licensing system has required learner and provisional motorcyclists to undergo more strenuous training and assessment requirements but the RSAC review will probe whether the system goes far enough. Feedback will contribute to the RSAC’s review and determine their recommendation to the Government on what more we can do to reduce the number of riders killed or seriously injured on our roads. To learn more and have your say visit www.rsac. tas.gov.au/mgls. Submissions close 21 September.
The quick demolition of a brand new cop car, whoops.
NEW TASMANIAN FAMILY VIOLENCE REFORMS NOW IN PLACE
THUMBS UP THUMBS DOWN
A national clothing charity that provides good quality clothes to those in need, for free, has a new permanent home in Hobart. Thread Together is a Syd ney-based charity that collects clothing and displays it in various boutique-style premises, allowing at-need clients the dignity and space to browse and choose their own style of clothing in private. Partnering with the Hobart City Church of Christ, Thread Together has now opened a permanent clothing hub in Goulburn Street, Hobart. Donations are organised from Sydney but they’re always interested in gaining local volunteers, so get in touch if you have time to spare for such a great www.hobartcitychurch.org.au.initiative:
From up here, you can share in the moment and soak up a sunset on the rooftop. Listen to local DJs spin tunes every Friday and Saturday whilst sipping on our new evolving cocktail menu featuring local and worldwide boozy goodness. Pair this backdrop with small plates of local harvest, flick through our delicious curated wine list and you have the best Hobart can offer. Call in on a whim or book ahead, there’s a place for you at AURA.
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BAR
JOIN US
ONLY
Rise above the streetscape and take in the world from AURA, where you’ll see Hobart in a new light.
Crowne Plaza, Level 12, 110 Liverpool Street Hobart www.aurahobart.com.au AT HOBART’S ROOFTOP & RESTAURANT, AURA
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Who can come along? Men over the age of 18 are welcome. Our youngest member is 20 and the oldest 93! Men from all walks of life attend, it is great to have that diversity around the Table. This is a place for men to be heard about what is really going on for them. How can we find out more? The next info evening is on Wednesday 28 September at The Hope and Anchor and we would love to see you there. To book call Ben Hughes on 0424 993 366 or visit www.themenstable.org
THE TABLEMEN’SISHERE
BEERS WITH A SIDE OF BABY TALK
The Tasmanian Government has announced $1.75 million in funding for Neighbourhood Houses across the state as part of a $5 million cost of living booster package. This means an additional $50,000 for each of the 35 houses across Tasmania - from Bridgewater to Burnie. These houses are run by the community for their community, and provide a range of services like emergency food relief, housing support, digital literacy classes, community gardens, and parenting programs. According to Ben Cooper, manager of the Warrane Mornington Neighbourhood Centre, there’s been a significant increase in people seeking help from Neighbourhood Houses with the rising cost of living. Most Neighbourhood Houses also accept donations of food and clothing - pop into your nearest centre to find out how you can help.
When a group of fifteen men met at the Crescent Hotel recently, the conversation covered all the normal things - work, covid, partners, and whether to get a parmi or a pie. But then the talk turned to contractions, water births, epidurals, and parental leave. Welcome to Beer+Bubs - a unique session that is part casual dinner, and part education class. For over ten years dads-to-be in Hobart have headed to the pub to prepare for childbirth and the transition to parenting. Beer+Bubs is a one-off session facilitated by a midwife.
The Men’s Table - an initiative set up nationally by Launceston’s Ben Hughes to get men chatting with other men about real life stuff - is now firmly in Hobart. After talking to Ben when he was in the planning stages, it’s now here, with the first table underway. Can you remind us what The Men’s Table is? A Men’s Table is a commu nity of the same men who meet once a month at the same place at the same time to talk about what is really going on for them. It is a great place to make connections; our tagline is “We don’t just talk about footy and shit.” We avoid the superficial stuff. The first Table started in Sydney in June 2011 and from early 2019 more were started. So far 70 have been started nationally, six are in Tassie with more to come. There is no charge, only the cost of a cheap meal and a drink if you choose. What’s the latest news with The Men’s Table in Hobart? We had an amazing night to set up the first Men’s Table in Hobart. 15 men showed up and 15 men committed to join The Men’s Table, one man couldn’t attend due to COVID but will be joining the second Table. I must’ve done something right! It was a fantastic evening in a perfect venue. There was a great deal of con nection straight up with some wonderful sharing and listening from the start. The second Table will be launched on Wednesday 28 September and seeing as Launceston has four Tables, I’m sure that Hobart can match that.
TASMANIAN NEIGHBOURHOOD HOUSES TO RECEIVE $1.75 MILLION
It’s designed to be practical and mem orable, focusing on how fathers can be actively and positively involved in their baby’s birth and early life. An important part of the night is hearing from a ‘return dad’, who comes back to speak about his personal experience and to answer curious questions from the group. Beer+Bubs is great for first-time fathers who don’t know what they’re in for, as well as those having another bub who’d like to be more prepared this time around. The content is also relevant for female and non-bina ry partners. Organiser Maya Wilkinson shares, “I welcome everyone and want all to feel safe. I will adjust my language for how you and your partner identify.” To book into a session, go to www.beerand bubs.com.au.
17 Positive leadership for Hobart's future ANDINDEPENDENTCOUNCILLOR With my leadership, Council has delivered: Financial support and balanced budgets to help Hobart through COVID Protection of our mountain More inner city apartments approved than ever before Help for the homeless Food waste collection and reducing single-use plastics Action on climate change More trees protected and planted in our streets Support for ferries and other transport projectswww.annareynolds.net Authorised by Anna Reynolds c/– Town Hall, Hobart.
VOTE FOR HOBART CITIZEN, EVENT AND INITIATIVE OF THE YEAR Who should be Hobart’s Citizen of the Year? If you have someone in mind for this or the Young Citizen of the Year, Community Initiative or Event of the Year awards categories, the time to nominate is now! Nominations are now open for the City of Hobart Community Awards, part of the Australia Day Awards program. For more information and to submit a nomina tion (by 3 October), visit au/HobartCommunityAwards.hobartcity.com.
ARE YOU AN OLDER PERSON AT RISK OF ASTHMA?
Asthma Australia is urging older people to look out for asthma symptoms - especially women, who are more likely to have asthma. Tasmanian retiree, Mary Keller, was recently diagnosed with asthma at age 72. She noticed that she was getting puffed walking up the stairs and spending time in the garden. After a visit to her GP, she was diagnosed with late onset asthma. “It was never in our family, I never had it as a child or anything, and it was totally unexpected,” Mary explained. Cold air and smoke are common causes of asthma flare-ups, and she now knows to keep the windows shut on particularly wintery days. But Mary’s story highlights the importance of having a doctor check any breathing difficulties. “The thing is,” Mary said, “if people do feel puffed, they need to seek their doctor’s advice earlier rather than later.” For more informa tion talk to your GP or head to www. asthma.org.au.
LIFELINE WALKS FOR SUICIDE REMEMBRANCE IN HOBART
For the first time since the pandemic, Lifeline Tasmania is able to publicly hold their annual walk to remember those lost to suicide. The Out of the Shadows walk is a chance for the community to come together each year during the week of World Suicide Prevention Day. Hobart’s walk will be held on Friday 9 September.
“Lifeline Tasmania is such a well-re spected and well-known organisation, but I think a lot of people don’t realise just how much amazing work they do in our local Tasmanian community in a lot of different programs,” Tyler said. “I am looking forward to shining a light on this work.” Visit www.lifelinetasmania.org.au for all the walk info, and if you’re going through a tough time you can call Lifeline on 13 11 14 for 24/7 crisis support. For text or chat support you can go to www. lifeline.org.au, and for A Tasmanian Lifeline call 1800 98 44 34, every day of the year, 8am – 8pm. If a life is in danger, always call 000.
Lifeline Tasmania’s first Ambassador, Tyler Richardson from Luca Brasi, will be speaking on the day and leading the walk.
WIGS LIBRARIES FULLY STOCKED
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All three Tasmanian wig libraries are now fully-stocked thanks to a recent delivery of more than 500 wigs to Cancer Council Tasmania. Cancer Council Tasmania CEO Penny Egan said the donation came out of the extraordinary efforts of Launceston’s Hayley Luttrell, who staged the Wigging It Gala Ball and raised more than $65,000. Mrs Luttrell decided to organise the fund raiser after she found it difficult to access appropriate wigs in Tasmania during her own cancer journey. “I found it difficult to find a wig similar to my natural hair in the short time frame of chemotherapy starting and hair loss occurring,” Mrs Luttrell said. “I found that for younger women with cancer, there are few afford able services available where patients can try wigs on locally.” Cancer sufferers will be able to access the wigs and other associated wig accessories free of charge at three libraries in Tasmania. The Hobart Library is at 15 Princes Street, Sandy Bay. For more information you can email them supportservicessouth@cancertas.org.au or call 03 6169 1900.
19 Every gift makes a difference. Every gift helps raise and train a puppy. Every gift helps change a life. Please leave a gift in your Will to Guide Dogs Tasmania.
Tin Camp Studio is on the MONA lawns Fridays to Mondays, 12-4, until November. STUDIOSCAMP MONA
There are many spaces available so I can offer it to heaps of people - with whatever form of communication or education you want. Just come along or come to me and I can give you a gig. People who might not get a go through mainstream venues can have a go here. Head to my website or face book, Instagram @tincampstudios_ or www.tincampstudios.com.au.
It’s more than music, it’s about a space that is there for people to share. That’s my number one priority. It’s a First Nations venue, we have First Nations artists telling stories, but it’s for everyone, anyone can perform. I’d like to take it overseas, I’d like to take it wherever.
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You’ve already featured Dewaynne Everett-Smith and Ben Salter, can I still get a gig at this year’s studio?
Pictures:
A temporary, makeshift structure created out of recycled materials has sprung up on MONA’s lawns. The Tin Camp Studio is the work of Warren Mason, a Yuwaalaraay man with Yorta Yorta links who is a performer, artist and very handy builder. His beautiful, rustic studios are modelled on typical 1950s Aboriginal housing that could be found on the fringe of many Australian townships and are a safe setting for known and new musicians, poets and speakers to perform. We caught up with Warren from his home at Dodges Ferry to find out what the story is. What happens in a Tin Camp Studio? The main set up is to give people the opportunity to share. So you have to create a space that’s safe enough to share. Sometimes they’re hard stories to share. For me they’re the stories that need to be told. It’s working great. I enjoy putting people up who have never shared stories before. I’m programming every second week and MONA is doing the off week. What’s the significance of the Tin Camps for you? It has a lot to do with my disconnection. My grandfather and his wife were the first Aboriginal family that were allowed to live with in the town boundary where I grew up, in outback NSW. All the other In digenous families lived on the river in tin camps, made up houses. I grew up in town and I copped racism from the boys in the camp and the white people in town. I moved out of town pretty early and when I moved back, there were more Aboriginal families living in town, we were all one people again, but I grew up a bit different to most of the first nations people in town, I went to church, went to pony club, all those things. So it’s been good for me, the whole concept of healing. I’m sharing my own healing from my songs, and the tin camp has the opportunity to be part of the healing process, part of the truth telling, going forward.
VariationsMozart TASMANIAN SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA MusicalsfromSongsthe THUR 29 SEPT, 7.30PM Federation Concert Hall, Hobart All your favourite songs from Phantom, Sound of Music, Funny Girl, West Side Story and lots more! FRI 23 SEPT, 7.30PM Federation Concert Hall, Hobart Andrea Lam plays Mozart’s Piano Concerto K488. book tickets at tso.com.au or 1800 001 190 with Andrea Lam
GO TO GUIDE: HOBART PARTY VENUES FOR KIDS
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Bounce Hobart (1 Linear Court, Derwent Park) Trampolines? Tick! Climbing walls? Tick! Soft play area? Tick! Fully catered parties? Tick, tick, tick!!! Bounce offers a few different play options to keep kids entertained for a couple of hours. Kids can hit the tramps, play dodgeball, or jump into the foam pit to practice their tricks. There are climbing walls fitted with auto-belays (so you don’t have to have a person on the ground holding the rope), and an obstacle course that snakes across the space. Younger, smaller kids will enjoy the soft play area. There are three party options - each based on an age range, starting from ages 2-5, and prices from $25 per person, food included.
Perfect for a sporty crew, Swisherrs is an indoor basketball centre in the old K&D Warehouse building. For smaller groups you can book a half court and run your own session, or go full party mode and hire a court and a referee (a.k.a. a party host!) to run the session with your kids. You can bring your own food, or order from the Swisherrs cafe menu. The birthday kid also receives a personalised basketball singlet. It’s $25 each person, with a minimum of ten people for a refer ee-run party.
Putters Adventure Golf (10 Main Road, Moonah) If your kids have been inspired by the recent golfing prowess of Cameron Smith, then mini golf is for you! Chances are you’ve driven past Putters in Moonah and wondered what it was like. Well, it’s really fun for all ages. There are two 18-hole courses, one indoor and one outdoor, which ticks the box for all kinds of weather. You can take your own group and just enjoy a round or two, or you can book a party session. Each party includes a round of golf, party food and a lolly bag. There’s also a jumping castle and outdoor playground to work off any sugar highs. Lady Nelson Does your birthday kid love pirates? Arrrrrgh well then get yourself down to the Lady Nelson. You can charter this incredible tall ship and let the kids bring out their inner Jack Sparrow. You can hire the boat moored or you can splash out and take it for a spin on the Derwent. It’s recommended kids are aged between six and ten to really enjoy it. Short charters start at $800 and it’s self catered. Woody’s Skating Rink (10-12 Knoll Street, Glenorchy) Family owned and operated in the same location for 22 years, Woody’s Skating Rink host birthday parties for all ages. Even really little kids can borrow a skating frame to support them as they learn. Self catered parties are $200 for a minimum of ten guests. There are two catered options, which start at $60 for food for the first ten guests. Let the good times roll! Rock It Climbing Gym (54 Bathurst Street, Hobart) You’ll have them climbing up the walls, in a good way! Rock It is a climbing centre hidden down a little laneway and is a great option for kids aged about six, right through to teenag ers (and adults!). Parties can be catered or you can bring your own food. Parties are scheduled in 2-hour time slots for a minimum of 10 guests ($275). There’s bouldering areas, auto-belays and lots of tunnels to explore.
Swisherrs (103 Melville Street, Hobart)
Glazed and Confused (52b Bathurst Street, Hobart) Right next to Rock It, is the Glazed and Confused pottery studio. Older kids and art lovers will revel in a personalised pottery session. Each party is bespoke so it’s best to contact them directly for details.
If you’ve had to plan a Tassie kid’s birthday party to be held outdoors, you’ll know the stress of watching the weather forecast in the days leading up to the cele bration. Will it rain? Will we need a Plan B? Here’s our guide to indoor birthday party venues in Hobart, so the only thing you need to worry about is sending out the invitations. And remember, birthday parties like these aren’t just for kids!
Honourable Mentions Grab a group and head to the State Cinema or Village Cinema for a film. Book in for a Zone 3 laser tag session. Try paintball or electric karting. Book a community centre or hall and host a disco party or yoga session. Book into an art class or hairstyling session.
Words: Stephanie Williams
23 Our Making Tracks Art Program participants are busy preparing for an upcoming exhibition. Stay tuned for details. For more information about our Making Tracks programs for NDIS participants, including Arts, Music, Cooking, Sports and Video gaming, get in touch with us today. 1800 ONTRACK (1800 668 www.ontracktasmania.com.au722)
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Ngaiire is taking her much anticipated album, ‘3’ to Altar from 7pm tonight. Karen Martini is in town to launch her new book Cook: The Only Book You Need in The Kitchen. RACV Hotel, 5:30pm. Very cute drawingsdisplaysExpeditioner!Bonjourpostcardsandfrompenpals at Lansdowne Primary and stranded covid quarantine French expeditioners. TMAG. Get the giggles at The Club house with Chris Ryan 7:30pm at the Hobart Brewing Co. Dust off the big red frock and run up that hill to the Kate Bush lip sync battle and women’s music trivia at Fern Tree Tavern from 7:30pm. The stage ver sion of Favel Parrett’s hit book Past The Shallows is on at the Peacock Theatre tonight from 8:30pm. Wear a Groove in the World is an exhibition of lino prints from women from around the world living in Tassie. 10am-5pm, Moonah Arts Centre. Judy Jackson’s paint and lino exhibition If These Walls Could Speak explores Rosny Farm’s land and buildings. At Rosny Cot tage Wed-Sun, 11-5pm, til the 18th.
WHAT’S ON IN HOBART
MONDAY WEDNESDAYTUESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY EmbroiderersThecopyHobart Guild 50th Anniversary exhibition starts today at TMAG’s Bond Store til the 11th. Adam Hall & The Velvet Playboys play Salamanca Arts Centre from 7pm. The In Your Head Poetry Workshop is for emerging Tassie writers with lived experience of mental health infocontactissues.1-2:30pm,Wellwaysfor61690603.
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Head to Biolumi nescence: Learn about Sea Sparkles, Glowworms, and Ghost Fungi, led by Dr Lisa Gershwin at 71 Murray Street, 6:30pm. Book ahead. Take the kids to Lift Off!TMAG’s Festival for Children and Young People - during the school holidays. On until 8 October. Tonight piano virtuoso Alexander Gad jiev performs at Hobart Town Hall, 7:30pm. Join ArchivesNationalcura tors for a more in depth look at the exhibition Chilled: Antarctic life, inside and out. 2-2:30pm, Allport Library and Museum of Fine Arts. Grammy mandolin soloist Avi Avital plays with cellist and composer Giovanni Sollima at Hobart Town Hall today from 7:30pm. Gritty homegrown play Amy’s Tattoo is on at the Theatre Royal tonight from 7:30pm. The TSO’s Mozart Variations is on tonight from 7:30pm, Federation Concert Hall.
Fiona Hall and AJ King’s Crying Country exhibition is on at MONA until October. Open 10-5pm,Friday-Monday,untilthe17th
Bruny Island’s Tim Burns has an exhibition of works at Bett Gallery this month, open Mon-Sat. Details subject to
The Big Bike Film Night brings the best cycling short films from around the world together for you at the UTAS Dobson Road Building. Better ride there. Fiona Hall and AJ King’s Cry ing Country exhibition is on at MONA until Octo ber. Open Friday-Mon day, 10-5pm. The OrchidannualShow is today 1-5pm and tomor row 9-5pm at the Hobart Town Hall Ballroom. Enjoy your red, red wine whilst watching UB40 at Hobart City Hall from 7pm. Eskimo Joe should finally play their Hobart gig at The Odeon tonight too.
Try some of the best of Tassie’s wine at the Great Eastern Wine Week 2022, a ten-day festival of events at the region’s boutique wineries and other local busi nesses. eastcoastwinetrail.com.au
stopExploremotion animations with Morag Poteous at Kickstart Arts from 10am. Then, marvel at the Town Hall Pipe Organ’s 150th Anniversary Concert from 2pm, free.
16 September If you like to get spooked you might just love the Murder Mystery at Midnight Manor, it’s a murder mystery weekend adven ture in the North West! From Friday 2:30pm to Sunday 10:30am at The Postmaster Inn Bed & Breakfast at Smithton. More on Eventbrite.
SATURDAY SUNDAY Thinking about Uni? UTAS has an Open Day today, 10am-2pm. Head to the Home Hearth market, a monthly immersion market, at The LongHouse, 10am-3pm.
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Background photo: Curringa Farm, Tourism Australiachange. Check in with individual events for further details.
FURTHER AFIELD
The FlowerSpringShow blooms at the Hobart Town Hall ballroom from 10-4pm. Sway to Deborah Conway and Willy Zygier at Nayri Niara’s The Longhouse from 7:30pm
For even more events in Hobart and further afield this month head www.thehobartmagazine.com.au/septembereventsto
The Hobart Doll Show is on all weekend at the Waterside Pavillion. Later, spend the arvo with Aus blues legend Ash Grunwald at The Longley from 2:30pm. Dear Tree is a listening experience and love letter to trees at the Botanical Gardens from 11-3pm. Later, flashback as The Dandy Warhols and Hoodoo Gurus take City Hall. Funny man Akmal returns to Tasma nia tonight to perform at the Uni Bar from 7:30pm.
Get a start on your Chrissy plans and make you own organic wool fleece needle felted Xmas decorations at a workshop at Soho Arts today from 10am. Stretch hammiesthe for our newest running event, the Hobart Airport Marathon Festival. Get stuff fixed, not chucked, at the Eastside Repair Cafe in Morn ington.
9 September Enjoy some of Tassie’s best fresh seafood paired with local wines at The Freycinet Marine Farm Long Table Lunch. 12-2:30pm in Coles Bay. 9-18 September
10 September Get game at Wild AbundanceCooking with Game at Twamley Farm, Buckland, from 12-3pm. The workshop will include learning to prepare and cook local game such as venison, pheasant and wallaby to perfection.
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Got an event coming up in Tassie? Email us at editor@thehobartmagazine.com.au
Love Leonard Cohen AND Joni Mitchell? Hallelujah, there’s a Hallelujah Tribute Concert to them both at the Hotel Grand Chancellor in Launceston tonight from 7pm. 14 September Run to Launnie for the RunNation Film Festival 22/23, at Village Cinemas for the eighth year. 6:30-8:30pm. 14-18 September The wonderful Junction Arts Festival offers a jam-packed program of art, performance and music over five days and nights in Launceston. Check out junctionartsfestival.com.au for the details.
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COVER FEATURE
In the new film Franklin, eighth-generation Tasmanian and environmentalist Oliver Cassidy embarks on a life-changing solo rafting trip down the remote Franklin River. He retraced his late father’s 14-day expedition to attend the blockade that saved the World-Heritage listed national park from being destroyed by a dam project in the early 1980s. We spoke with Oliver ahead of the film’s Tasmanian release.
What is your connection to the Franklin River and why did you decide to make a film about it? Like many Tasmanians I always knew something about the Franklin River. Its name per meates our culture. For me personally, it was a combination of the knowledge my late father had been involved in the campaign to save it, and that in my early 20s I lived in Strahan working as an actor and tour guide for the Round Earth Company. Through the summer every so often I would see rafting groups being picked up by the World Heritage Cruise boats. Upriver some where was this adventure to be had. The spark of inspiration to make a film about it came from Elias Echlier of Franklin River Rafting, and Wolfgang Glowacki, a wilderness photographer. I’d known Wolf for many years, having met on two experimental art and music projects where we had been lucky enough to join other artists travelling upstream to Sir John Falls to take in the beauty of that place and respond to it in our respective mediums. Wolf and Elias wanted to show the beauty of the Franklin to the world by tracing its journey, source to sea. I told them, that sounds fantastic but a human story would get a broader audience. I told them what mine would be just as an example and after a moment’s silence they said “make that!” So here we are ten years later.
FRANKLIN RIVER FILM TEN YEARS IN THE MAKING
Interview: Stephanie Williams
COVER FEATURE
The campaign to save the Franklin River in the 1980s mobi lised many people, not just in Tasmania. Why do you think it hit a nerve - on both sides of the campaign? Over the course of the last century more and more of Tasmania’s beautiful natural places had been destroyed. Many dams had been built on waterways that had been really loved. The most obvious was Lake Pedder, but it wasn’t just that. By the time the Franklin dam was proposed there was too much grief to let another one slide. And the Pedder campaign had shown that asking politely was not going to work.
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One thing I have learnt from my work in the conservation movement is that some of the original actors in the Tasmanian Conservation Trust where I work, for instance, were in fact forestry workers. These were people who loved the forests because they worked in the forests. Reg Morrison, a Strahan Huon pine harvester, famously said if the rivers ever ran dry so would the blood in his veins. So I don’t think the lines in the sand are always where you expect on conservation issues. Those who wanted the dam to go ahead needed the jobs and the money to put food on the table. Those who wanted to prevent it wanted clean air and stable climate for their children. These are in fact the same issue, which is the question of survival, seen from different angles.
The film has just been released and recently shown at Melbourne International Film Festival. Tell me a little about that experience? About half way through the screening I suddenly remembered I wasn’t just watching Franklin on my laptop but was in a room packed full of people. Suddenly my
Do you think we can apply learning from that campaign to today? Absolutely. The Franklin is a perfect case study of a successful campaign and although the tactics might be differ ent today - the laws are different, media is different, the public narrative is different - the overall concepts and strategy is very relevant. Hopefully the younger folks who are standing up for what they believe in now can know from this that they are standing on the shoulders of giants. We have a really strong and proud tradition in this country of grass roots change making. Peaceful protest, in all its splendid manifestations, is responsible for every right and privilege we can enjoy today, from the pro tection of our precious places to the right to vote or get married or be safe in the workplace. We pride ourselves in principle when we have the courage to act on our beliefs and values, to say no to injustice. People who do this are really the ones who underpin our democracy so it’s time we celebrate them.
Filmmaking was my full time gig until I moved back to Tasmania in 2015. I landed a part time job at the Tasmanian Conservation Trust in large part due to the work I’d already done on Franklin. It has been really valuable to have had a foot in both the story telling and campaigning camps, to really see how it’s done. I am also a theatre maker and a musician, having been lucky enough to work as a music director on occasion, which I love. I am a member of improv band Philomath too, which has been a much needed creative antithesis to long form projects like Franklin which have taken 10 years from go to wo. What’s your hot tip for a person about to embark on the Franklin River? For those without extensive experience of river rafting, I can’t recommend more highly the team at Franklin River Rafting. We wouldn’t have been able to shoot this without their incredible help. Elias and Franzi Echlier and their team of wonderful, capable, emotionally intelligent humans can help you step up to be your best on an extraordinary journey. I hope I’ll get another chance to travel with them one day. What’s next for you? I’ve lived with Franklin in my future for so long now, it’s hard to imagine my life with it in my past. I’d like to explore more in music. But for the time being it will be making Franklin as useful as it can be in the quest to make our world a better place. I guess we’ll see what comes out of that!
28 stomach filled with butterflies. It was truly magic though. I couldn’t have hoped for a more loving reception. So many people came up afterwards with big smiles and some with tears in their eyes, wanting to tell their story, and that’s the absolute magic of this film. A few days later I had someone hand me a note as I stepped off a tram, I didn’t even get a good look at their face but the unsigned note read, “You and your father’s story brings a lot of joy, hope and comfort. Thank you for sharing it.” I can’t even begin to describe how magic that is. We are presently fundraising for an impact campaign which will allow Franklin to be a convening tool for groups all around Australia to kick start important conversations, run workshops, celebrate, fundraise, whatever support we can provide. And I am really grateful we are doing this work because it is somewhere I can direct all the strength of feeling people are having, and a way of saying thank you to everyone who has been involved in big and small ways on this campaign or any other. What were some of the highlights from your trip down the Franklin? Being in such a beautiful and richly diverse place does something to you. I felt like it woke up parts of my mind. There is no burn-out out there, you are using all of your faculties at once rather than the narrow mental and physical bandwidth that we are confined to in our day to day. And when I allowed this idea of belonging to that place, rather than it belonging to me, to permeate, I felt really welcome, respected. It’s like compassion - extending compassion outwards is the same act as extending it inwards. Having respect for all the creatures and plants, the power, beauty and danger of the water, the extraordinary geology - it’s the same as having respect for me. And lowlights? Unfortunately I sustained an injury that’s going to be with me for the rest of my life now. The lateral meniscus in my right knee has been torn through. I have had to grieve that and am still working out what restrictions this will put on my life going forward as I’ll be wearing a brace on my leg forever now. I’ve been warmly welcomed into disability activist communities though, and subsequently I’ve learnt a lot and met some absolute legends. I can now use the #babewithamobilityaid tag and like to joke that I am leaning into the steampunk aesthetic. Is filmmaking your full time gig, or do you do other things?
COVER FEATURE
BREATHE WHERE THEY BREATHED. This was their escape. A place of serenity and quiet beauty, somewhere away from the crushing drudgery and anguish that festered close by. It was somewhere the free could retreat to. Get your ticket to step into history at portarthur.org.au
Art Growing up I always wanted to be a footballer and play in the World Cup one day. I still do. But after spending a few years in a detention centre on Christmas Island, art has given me a new perspective in my world. For me art is about communication and is the pure expression of emotions. This transcends culture, although we bring our cultural perspectives, emotion and com munication into it. Emotions are at the core of who we are, and our evolution has brought us to a point where we can express them in complex ways, however the basic ingredient of art is in all of us. To feel, to communicate and express, that is art. And art can be seen through the lenses of human imagination, which is a place of no language - a free, incomprehensible place that tran scends our cultures. Art has taught me a new language that has LIFE OF MOSTAFAARTISTFOOTBALLER,HOBARTANDWRITERFARAJI
THE FASCINATING
“I was born Kurd, so resistance isn’t something new to me and my people. There are 32 million Kurds in the world, we are the largest ethnic group of people without a nation-state. We are scattered across five different countries. Turkey, Syria, Iraq, Iran and Armenia. My story of seeking asylum started when I escaped the dictatorship in Iran when I was 15 years old. I was forced to leave my homeland, and all that I knew, behind. This included my family who loved me very much, my home life, stability, my dreams, everything. But I was in danger if I stayed in my country, because of the oppressive government dictator ship that rules there. But if I stayed, I knew I’d have no rights, and no voice living in this dictatorship. To stay in my country, where I had no future, would have meant death. This danger was compounded because I am a Kurdish man. So reluctantly I had to leave everything I knew behind to begin my journey as a refugee.
Interview: Stephanie Williams
FEATURE Mostafa Faraji came to Australia as a 15 year old refugee, saved from a sinking boat and taken to detention. This September he will stand before the Australian parliament to share more of his story. Mostafa is an artist, soccer player, and writer, currently producing his first book with Socceroos star and human rights activist, Craig Foster. I met Mostafa by chance recently in Hobart, and eagerly listened to his fascinating story.
The Journey Undertaking the journey alone as a 15-year teenager was a horror. It was dark at night time, I couldn’t see anyone’s faces in the old fishing boat parked near the beach. We had only a few minutes to get there. Children crying, dropping the bags in the water, leaving everything behind before the journey began. As I got into the old fishing boat, I realised I’m one of 60-70 other people inside the boat. The boat engine slowly started. We began the journey to the ocean for six days without eating or drinking. And just before we sank, the Australian Navy arrested us. When I look back now, I’m surprised how I’m still alive. I thought that was the end of my journey, but looking back it was when my journey had just begun. I spent the next few years in detention centres. I found out that the hardest thing for me to deal with as a teen was having my hopes destroyed when confronted with the harsh treatment of refugees by Australian officials upon my arrival. Being treated ‘less than human’ was perhaps the most painful thing that I have ever experienced.
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Hobart My experience in Australia, especially Hobart, has been com pletely different from the government’s treatment of refugees. People have welcomed me ever since day one. Like back at home, I know of hudnreds of people by their names. I have coffee catch ups almost every day. I belong to this community. I feel home again. Often when I share my stories with people, they think it’s unimaginable. Even when I explain my visa situation, not many people would understand it. I see the huge misinformation gap between government policies and communities’ beliefs about refugee and refugee’s treatment.
The Future My upcoming book A Home For a Boy is a story which explores and chronicles the diverse stories of people seeking asylum in Australia and ‘The Legacy Caseload’ - Australian residents living under an invisible inequality, refused visas by the Australian government. The project presents the general Australian public with confronting reality experienced by refugees coming to Australia. As a person who has experienced this and been an outsider for most of my life, I want us refugees to find a home and settle. I want us refugees not to be recognised as a political interest for government parties. I want us to be a one body and one community. I do know this, as an Australian we say: ‘let’s cut a crap mate’.”
In those years 2011-2013, there were an enormous amount of asylum seekers in Australia who arrived by boat. Many of the people were kept on Manus Island or sent to Papua New Guinea. After spending years in detention, the majority of people lived in temporary protection visas in limbo like me or the Biloela Accordingfamily.
FEATURE
to a Home Affairs report there were 30,000 asylum seekers who arrived in those years and given temporary visa, not yet permanent. Meanwhile they cannot call Australia home after 10 years. The Australian government has in place policies that would exclude us from being part of a community.
Craig Foster While trying to tell my story I contacted Craig Foster because of my personal connection with fellow detainee Behrouze Bouchani’s book No Friend But the Mountain. We connected over coffee and shared our love for football. On the field each football player is stripped of the matters of circumstance that in so many cases decide how we enjoy basic human rights and freedoms. As Craig said it, “no matter where you’ve come from, everyone is equal on the pitch.” Ever since I have met Craig he has been supporting me in this journey.
32 made it possible for me to express any emotion. When I arrived at the age of 15 by boat, I found myself struggling with speaking English and making friends. Art has helped express myself more than ever before. On The Ground
My friend Madeleine Rojahn is a Hobart writer who has been encouraging me to tell my story. We connected after she published her book The Bloody Unknown, which shares local refugee stories. Since, we have become good friends and she has been working hard to help share my story. She is one of many new Australian friends who have been supporting me through this journey. I believe there is power in us two working as members of the younger generation together to share my story and speak up about refugee situations.
Mostafa is making a speech to the Australian Parliament at 11am on Tuesday 6 September about his experiences as a refugee.
33 If you have an idea that could make a real difference for the people of Hobart why not apply for one of our community, creative, event or urban sustainability grants? Applications close at 5 pm on Monday 26 September 2022 To find out more and to apply, visit hobartcity.com.au/grants or phone 03 6238 2132 CITY OF HOBART COMMUNITY GRANTS ARE NOW OPEN I C A R R Y A N I N H E R E N IT C A R R Y A N I N H E R E N T R E S P E C T F O R T A S M A N I A , I T RS E S P E C T F O R T A S M A N I A , I T S P E O P L E , A N D T H E I R S T O R I E S P, E O P L E , A N D T H E I R S T O R I E S , A L O N G S I D E A N A T U R A AL L O N G S I D E A N A T U R A L A F F I N I T Y F O R S E E K I N AG F F I N I T Y F O R S E E K I N G C O N N E C T I O N S B E T W E E CN O N N E C T I O N S B E T W E E N C O M M U N I T Y E N G A G E M E N T C, O M M U N I T Y E N G A G E M E N T , D E S I G N A N D T H E B U I L DT E S I G N A N D T H E B U I L T E N V I R O N M E N T . T H I ES N V I R O N M E N T . T H I S A P P R O A C H D R I V E S M AY P P R O A C H D R I V E S M Y P A S S I O N F O R R E A L E S T A T E P. A S S I O N F O R R E A L E S T A T E .
APSYCHOLOGYKALEIDOSCOPIC LOVE
34 Julie: “I can’t believe it. After 24 years of being together, I feel like it’s all falling apart. He lied about where he was. I know he’s cheating on me! All I’ve ever done is look after our family. I organise everything for the home, for the kids, for our lives, and he can’t see that I’m hurting and want answers? I don’t understand. It’s like he’s just disconnected and I’m in this marriage alone.”
Charlie: I’m not good at talking about my feelings but it’s as though I can’t be the man of the house. Everything I do, she says, “No, let’s do it this way.” Even little things like fixing stuff around the house, she opposes, “Let’s get a professional to do it instead.” It’s like she doesn’t trust me, you know? It’s as though what I do isn’t good enough. I don’t feel like I can be myself at home. I’d rather go for a drive or a walk, so sometimes, that’s what I do.
Naturally, Charlie’s confidence to com municate openly to Julie diminished. Julie interpreted this as rejection. To cope, she sought control of her environment. Julie developed a limiting idea that the more in control she was (of the house, the kids, schedules etc), the easier things would be. Her busyness became a shield which con tributed to a medley of unhelpful thoughts such as “I need to keep going. If I slow down, I’ll fall apart. I don’t have time for that. Why doesn’t he help out more?”
Psychologist: “My job is not to fix your relationship. My role is to support you both in gaining clarity about yourselves individually and as a partnership, and then provide you with skills that will enable you to create the relationship you desire and deserve. If you’re not aware of how your own and one another’s coping mechanisms are contributing to your challenges, you’ll forever be stuck in a cycle of blame and resentment. It’s time to put the kaleidoscope down. Stop trying to change one another. Reconnect with what’s important to you and your relation ship and start taking accountability for making the changes that better yourselves individually and as a couple.” After the silence, the light bulb moment came. They looked at one another and embraced with a tenderness that brought tears to their eyes. After years of resistance, in that instant, they gave one another per mission to shine. The truth is, whether your relationship is satisfying or strained, understanding your own and one another’s coping mechanisms can have a profound effect on all aspects of your wellbeing. To know these patterns is to shed light on them. By seeing them for what they are, we can grow more compassionate with ourselves and each other and start showing up with new mental habits that don’t turn every situation into the same personal drama. Once that veil is lifted, it’s as though we stop viewing the relationship through a kaleidoscope of judgment and instead, return to love. We can come back to a space where we respect one another’s dif ferences and celebrate them wholeheart edly. When we do this, we make decisions from a place of love, not fear. We’re able to be our real selves again. We begin to see our relationship as our greatest teacher and learn, like best-selling author Marianne Williamson notes that, “as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same.” And at the end of the day, that’s what all types of relationships are here to do. But it starts with you. It starts with a coura geous decision to get to know yourself better. Give yourself permission to do that and watch how your relationships bloom.
Psychologist: “Julie, Charlie, are you familiar with one another’s coping mechanisms?” Julie and Charlie: Silence. Couples therapy can be the most chal lenging, insightful, and eye-opening experience for all involved, and it’s a courageous undertaking. What tends to be discovered is how we create unnec essary suffering simply because we haven’t given ourselves the opportunity to identify and understand one another’s ways of handling things. A lot of the time we think of coping mechanisms as overt and easily recognisable ‘bad’ habits i.e., drinking alcohol or taking drugs. But ways of coping can be subtle and unobtrusive. They can resemble a variety of normal and even ‘positive’ traits such as being organised, busy or keeping clean and tidy. Once we understand that our partner’s behaviour is their learned way of managing discomfort, we can appreciate where they’re coming from, and stop interpreting their behaviour as a personal attack. Charlie felt it was easier to remove himself from uncomfortable situations instead of expressing to Julie how her actions were making him feel. This self-protecting behaviour strength ened over time, creating a kaleidoscope of integrated unhelpful beliefs such as, “If I say the truth, it will probably cause an argument. I’m not good at dealing with confrontation so it’s easier to not say anything.”
Words: Annia Baron
Annia Baron is a Clinical Psychologist & Mindset Coach. Interested in elevating your mindset to live a life you desire and deserve? Get in touch on Instagram @ anniabaron or visit www.remindyourself. com.
From Charlie’s perspective he saw Julie putting all her energy into everything (and everyone) else. To cope with that, he sought solitude, which Julie interpreted as rejection and deceit.
35 Organise a free consultation and examination to discuss your existing or new denture smile. We also offfer after hours denture repairs and relines, and sports mouthguards. Level 1/ 100 Elizabeth St Hobart www.smilesonhobart.com.au Under new ownership. Maurie D’Andrea is pleased to announce Nikolaus Zak is back! Speak to Nick on 0419833495 FOR ALL YOUR DENTURE NEEDS Maurie D’Andrea Nikolaus Zac Hobart’s Friday night market! 4:30pm - 9:00pm LONG BEACH SANDY BAY Returning 7 Oct 2022 BROOKE STREET PIER 30 Sep, 28 Oct, 25 Nov eats|drinks|design|music Engage, learn and experience local! 20 Kangaroo Bay Drive, Rosny TASMANIAN MARKETPRODUCE EVERY SAT KANGAROO9am-1pmBAYPARK
The brain contains around 160,934 kilometres of blood vessels. Given its work load it needs an excellent delivery system to continuously supply oxygen and nutrients. Support this delivery system by not smoking, exercising, and eating well. This means eating regularly to maintain a steady supply of fuel for the brain. This does not mean under-eating, regularly skipping meals or maintaining a daily level of activity that doesn’t allow for eating lunch or drinking throughout the day. I know we all have the odd frenetic day, but if this is your normal pattern, the low blood glucose levels, dehydration, adrenaline and cortisol released will be pretty wearing on brain function.
My client went on to explain that yes, she’s taken herself to her GP for a recent check-up and all seemed to be ok, but each day is a struggle. She has work, study, family and a great long to do list that doesn’t ever seem to get any shorter. She needed to be able to focus and clear her brain fog. Oh, if it were only as simple as taking the latest you-beaut supplement that promises superior brain function. Reality check: it’s not. The brain is an incredible part of the body with brilliant capabilities. Much of its workings we don’t really understand, but we do know of some of the fundamentals it does need to work well. Be aware that the brain is not a magical piece of equipment with no limits; that will just keep on giving. It has a limit and it is when this is reached that we get into the realm of overwhelm where we struggle to think clearly, focus, maintain memory and make Firstly,decisions.yourbrain
Sleep and rest, both foundations for good health, often seem to be the first things that we sacrifice for the sake of doing or being more. No supplement in the world is more effective than a good night’s sleep. So, choose to prioritise rest and sleep.
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The brain is around 2/3 fat, of which 20 percent is a type of Omega 3 fat called docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). We can’t make DHA, so we obtain it from food. The best sources are fatty fish like sardines, mackerel, salmon and tuna. Vegetarians and vegans need to be aware that plant foods contain no DHA. The Omega 3 fatty acid found in plant foods like chia, flax and walnuts is alpha-linolenic acid (ALA). In some people a tiny amount of this ALA can be converted into DHA by the body, but most studies show this is less than 10 percent and many studies find a conversion rate of 0 percent.
TRAVEL ON THE DOESISLANDYOUR BRAIN NEED A SHAMPOO? NUTRITION Words:
“My brain feels like it’s fried. I can’t remember where I’ve put my keys and I can’t seem to concentrate. Do you have any brain supplements I can take?“
If you need support with any of this, an experienced natural therapist can help. Laura Cini
needs to be able to give itself a good shampoo and clean. This is the job of the glymphatic system, the brain’s waste removal system, also acting to transport and deliver nutri ents. This system is most active when we are at rest or asleep.
JUMP ON THE BUS FOR OPENING NIGHT
Wanting to see the show and New Norfolk at night but don’t want to drive? Our specially chartered bus can pick you and your friends up from central Hobart for the opening night event. Includes a stop off at the renowned Welcome Swallow and return trip to Hobart. Bookings: derwentvalley.art ABOUT WILLOW COURT
Derwent Valley Council, together with community and partners, is leading the way on the adaptive reuse and activation of Willow Court — helping to guarantee the survival of Willow Court and bringing economic, cultural and community benefits to the Derwent Valley. Visit yoursay.derwentvalley.tas.gov.au to find out more.
Willow Court is a unique heritage listed precinct steeped in the historical context of its many eras. As one of the longest continually running mental health facilities in Australia, it encapsulates the evolution of perceptions of mental health, including changes in institutional facility design, architecture, diagnoses, treatments, and the terminologies used to describe them. Today, the site is a mixed-use facility comprised of retail and hospitality outlets, arts spaces and an assortment of vacant buildings that continue to tell the story of the site.
This project is made possible by the assistance of the following organisations: Arts Tasmania and Australian Government’s Regional Arts fund, supporting the arts in regional and remote Australia.
AMANDA DAVIES Symptom of a disease (Between the Lachlan and Derwent River) (detail) 2022, oil on board. Image courtesy of the artist and Bett Gallery.
Installed across four rooms of The Barracks at Willow Court, New Norfolk, this unique and compelling exhibition explores the materiality of the heritage-listed Barracks through a complex series of works highlighting unsettled thresholds between psychological and material conditions and states.
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HERITAGE GATEWAY
Curated by Eliza Burke Barracks Gallery / Willow Court / New Norfolk 10—25 September 2022 derwentvalley.art
I love the wait in between courses when restaurants get the timing just right. Enough time must pass for food to settle, flavours to dissipate and mouths to begin to salivate. Our bigger plates arrived a few at a time, with the tempura eggplant ($29) hitting the table hot and soft in the centre, encased in a chili lime caramel sauce that gave a satisfying bruleed crunch. The Massaman curry of wagyu beef shin was pull-apart tender and plenty of meat and sweet potato to share among five. Duck fat potatoes ($12.50) had a faint, floral touch of cassia bark, the lamb larb was a welcome hit of freshness and again, I played ‘mum’ and forced a plate of stir-fried greens and mushrooms ($12) onto the table. Between the five of us, we sipped a bottle of chilled red from BK Wines and shared a single plate of sticky-date pudding to fill in the little gaps left, walking away from the colourful haven into dreary Hobart, full for a very reasonable fee.
Dumplings were soft and crispy in the right places, and nothing overly salty or spicy. While I’m sure you could turn the heat up, Suzie Luck’s is definitely kid, or that friend who just can’t handle anything spicy, friendly.
This weekend I found myself part of the former with a bunch of friends, finding solace in Suzie Luck’s in Salamanca Square. The bright, eye-catching interior makes a vibrant contrast to the wet dreary evening unfolding outside.
IN LUCK WITH SUZIE LUCK’S 2 Salamanca Square, Hobart
Kaffir lime margaritas, made with lemongrass rather than lime, and a rhubarb daiquiri, which was my tipple of choice.
As an “Asian-inspired canteen”, it was only fitting to share. We kicked off with chicken and coriander dumplings and fried pork dumplings with XO sauce, both juicy with lashings of sauce.
Eyeing off the cocktail list first and foremost, there’s an exten sive collection of classics, but with not-quite-classic flavours.
www.suzielucks.com.au
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Words and pictures: Lily Whiting
On a weekend evening, the waterfront area of Hobart heaves with family diners, groups in search of watering holes and young crowds waiting for the music to get turned up and those families to disappear.
39 Buy Online at www islandseamstress com au or or give us a call 0437 402 065 Bring on Summer Handmade and locally customised to give you that perfect fit
Interview: Lily Whiting
Head to Print Radio Tasmania’s website to listen to their 24/7 broadcast. If you think you can be of help in any way, reach out! Check out the PRT biweekly program guide via their website, www.printradio tas.org.au.
We are the only radio reading service in Tasmania that meets the standards set by the peak body RPH, however other capital cities and major urban areas across Australia have a similar service. Listeners in Tasmania are able to tune in to other state based reading services through the RPH website.
Who listens to Print Radio Tasmania (PRT) and why? PRT is a local, not for profit, community radio station. It’s unique in that it ‘turns print into sound’ for listeners with a print reading disabil ity. Our community of interest extends across a diverse range of listeners around Tasmania including those who are blind or have low vision, others who find printed material difficult to access, those with a physical disability, or those whose first language is not English. We have about 44,000 regular listeners, but can likely benefit up to 50% of Tasmanians who are functionally illiterate. There are others who simply gravitate to the more informative style of radio rather than music orientation of commercial radio.
How is Print Radio Tasmania funded?
How does Print Radio Tasmania differ from mainstream broadcasters? Firstly, that we are not “talk back” commercial radio at all, and secondly how we operate are the two unique things about our broadcast. We currently broadcast over 150 different programs every week. Almost 70% of these are produced in our own studios and the ‘home studios’ of 80 dedicated volunteers who live in remote areas of Tasmania. By attracting a broad range of volunteers, we hope that some may also be able to actively participate in assisting us in expanding our presence in the community. We hope to enable all Tasmanians to further their knowledge of the community’s cultural, political, and social life, irrespective of their ability to read printed material. Do you have a primary studio? For content not produced in our volunteer’s homes, we are very fortunate to have our studios housed at a reduced rent in prime commercial real estate in South Hobart, albeit not in a purpose designed building but rather a lovely old, listed building, named the ‘Coach House’. It’s next door to some our most fervent community of listeners at St Ann’s aged care facility! Beyond the news, what other type of content can listeners find on your channel? We record a cross-section of informative and entertaining program ming, stemming from a vast array of magazines, periodicals, books, and news. From time to time, we have interviews on topics of interest to our community. Whilst we are keen to keep our commu nity up to date on local matters, we keep abreast of the programs of other Radio for the Print Handicapped (RPH) stations and the broader Community Radio Network, for added colour and content.
During the pandemic we were fortunate to receive support through grant appli cation bids to the Community Broadcast Foundation (CBF), the funding body tasked with allocating federal funds to the many hundreds of community radio stations across Australia. Being a notfor-profit organisation with our business largely volunteer based and without the support structures of a commercial business, the art of seeking funding through sponsorship and partnerships is extremely difficult. Is this initiative unique to Tasmania?
40 COMMUNITY With a loyal listenership of 44,000, Print Radio Tasmania is turning words into sound for many Tasmanians with a print reading disability.
TASMANIAPRINTSOUND:PRINTTURNINGINTORADIO
What’s your most popular segment?
For many the local daily newspapers are a must and our serialised book readings are very popular. Interestingly, our interviews with the Wicking Foundation, which provides information about dementia are also highly regarded. Using our team of volunteers, we aim to provide interest and information to our very wide and diverse community so that there is something for everyone.
Funding was originally and significantly supported by the Tasmanian Government until 2018. Since our loss of government funding, PRT has relied primarily on the support of private sector donations, funding grants and the occasional and highly valued bequest from our commu nity of listeners to cover running costs.
41 100%Independent “My job is to represent and help the people of Clark which includes Hobart, Glenorchy and Taroona. Feel free to get in touch to speak with me or one of my staff.” Andrew Wilkie Your Independent Federal MP www.andrewwilkie.org andrew.wilkie.mp@aph.gov.au Telephone 03 6234 5255 Authorised by Andrew Wilkie MP 188 Collins Street Hobart 7000 Advertisement Kingborough Rentals 03 6229 6633 SpecialistsManagementProperty 4/16 Freeman Street, Kingston TAS rentals@kingborough.rh.com.au7050rh.com.au/kingboroughrentals
Words:
The exhibition also includes previously unseen watercolors by Louisa Anne Meredith, niece and daughter-in-law of George Meredith, and Thomas Bock’s portraits of George and Mary Meredith from the Glamorgan Spring Bay Historical Society Museum, Swansea. Portraits and caricatures of George Meredith who lead a visible and active public life are quite common however, in contrast, there are few portraits of Mary.
The cedar bed was made in the 1830’s by leading colonial Tasmanian cabinet maker William Hamilton. It’s a stunning example of early colonial furniture making. Back then, four poster beds were the most expensive and high status of cab inet-making commissions. This particular bed incorporated elements of the then-fashionable Greek Revival style coupled with Hamilton’s own distinctive Irish design ethos. Often using the metaphor of gardening to describe his strong physical desires towards his second wife Mary, perhaps coincidentally the bed is richly decorated with carved botanical elements. A foot board with a large and ornate carved floral array surrounded by acanthus leaves and bedpost bosses wrapped in carved acanthus leaves were all symbols of rebirth and immortality. It goes without saying why this piece of furniture formed the centre piece of Meredith’s letters to his wife.
You may be well acquainted with stories of prisoners being shipped to Van Diemen’s Land to carry out their sentences as convicts. But what is perhaps often overlooked in our colonial history is the story of what became of the direct descendants of convicts. It’s not a usual occurrence to see a marital bed at the centre of an historic exhibition, but from what we’re told, this is no ordinary bed. The passionate, previously-private life of George Meredith, the ‘King of Oyster Bay’ is on full display at a new exhibition at Narryna Battery Point, centered around what Meredith and Mary shared most, a large four poster cedar bed. There really are no secrets in Hobart.
50 SHADES OF COLONIAL GREY Chris Tassell HISTORY
A pioneer, a former Royal Marine officer and, it also turns out, an erotic poet, George Meredith’s private life was far more passionate than he let on in the early 1800’s. Upon his long absences from Van Diemen’s Land, Meredith articulated saucy, graphic letters to his young wife Mary, ‘a love feast’ in the words of Meredith. Living on an isolated farm on the East Coast, from the age of 26 Mary raised five teenage children from Merediths’s first marriage, plus a growing family of her own. She oversaw management of the Cambria Farm, including convict and free labor, plus Meredith’s other East Coast enterprises while he was galavanting abroad. A master of multitasking it sounds, Mary played mother and business manager yet was never given a chance to set foot in Hobart from 1822 until 1838.
The exhibition, including the bed, will run from 7 October at Narryna, open Tuesdays to Saturdays from 10am to 4pm.
Despite the letters being clearly marked not to be shared, histo rians have discovered a soft side to a demanding man - his love and passion for his wife. You can get further personal insight into the private lives of this prominent Tasmanian colonial family in October when the exhibition opens at Narryna, The Merchant’s House in Battery Point.
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The Accident explores themes of bullying and imperfect parenting. How much of your own experience has played into this? I think, probably like most writers, I don’t base my stories on events from my own life. For one thing, I’m fortunate enough to have a reasonably undramatic existence and a novel where the central struggle was running out of tea bags might be a little bit boring. But also, if any slightly scandalous thing ever did happen to me, then the last thing I’d want would be to publish an account of it.
44 Just before the pandemic hit, medical doctor Katie McMahon released her first book, The Mistake. Two years on, her second book, set in Hobart, The Accident has hit the shelves.
In 2020, I was fortunate to have that picked up by the first publisher who read it, which was a huge surprise. It helped take my mind off the pandemic a bit. When that novel came out in 2021, I was busy with the second, The Accident. I worked part-time in medicine all through this. It’s a wonderful career too, something I would feel very conflicted about giving up, especially given the health-care crisis we’re in the middle of. I have narrowed my scope of practice so that I can keep up with what I need to. I work part time in a team-work oriented clinic. All this allows me time to write. It’s difficult fulfilling all of the demands - I’ve decided to stop using the term ‘juggling’ unless I’m referring to the actual activity involving balls, because I reckon ‘juggling’ is a fun-sounding word that’s often used to make light of women who pull off difficult logistical tasks - but I’ll try to keep doing both things for now.
What role does Hobart play in the book? And in your own story? At one point it was suggested I could set a book in a fictional city - a made up place in an unspecified country - because that way American readers and publishers could imagine they were in America and they might like that. But I wanted to write about Hobart, where I’ve lived now for more than twenty-five years.
It’s certainly a challenge to find original ways to describe Hobart’s beauty, and to capture in words the rhythm of the citythe cyclists and cafes and sandstone, the freezing wind, the buses, the blue-pink dusks – all the things we take for granted. But I love trying to convey something of Hobart’s essence to readers who might never come here. Since Hobart is a small city – to be honest, I think the least plausible aspect of my books is that secrets stay secret for so long - I always worry that people will think I’m having a crack at an actual person or place. I never am. So, I just try to put that worry aside and get on with telling the story.
You’re a medical doctor. How is your writing career allied to that? I always loved reading and writing, and after year twelve I thought the best thing would be to enrol in a Journalism degree at RMIT. I went to the Orientation Day, which was really exciting because there was a very well-known journalist – Ranald Macdonald - there. I remember he said, ‘Always be sceptical, but never be cynical.’ I think that’s good advice. I’d planned a gap year before uni started and while I was overseas, I got really inspired to study medicine. I repeated year eleven and twelve doing the maths and science type subjects and then started my medical degree at University of Tasmania in the 1990’s. I was working as a doctor in Hobart when, about five or six years ago, I enrolled in a part-time Masters of Creative Writing course. I remember devouring how-to books with titles like The Art of Fiction while I was on holidays, and saying to my husband things like, ‘Wow! There are text books for writing! By people who know how! They don’t mind telling!’
In 2018, I was given a ticket to a five-day intensive writing course with the bestsell ing Australian writer Fiona McIntosh. The emphasis was on writing for publication, and it gave me the impetus and encour agement to persevere with my first novel, The Mistake, which is also set in Hobart.
I do draw on feelings I’ve had. Doing that helps me to understand what the charac ters are feeling, and what they might do or say or think next. When I was writing about Grace – I haven’t faced the issues she does with her daughter – I reflected on the semi-anguish that’s a consequence of maternal love. I feel bumps in the road for my kids; I agonise about doing the right thing; I try hard to get it right and fail sometimes. I felt into my own moth ering experiences while I was writing those scenes.
With the character of Imogen, I remem bered high school, where I was a total fish out of water. I never experienced what Imogen does, but I definitely had times where I felt like an outsider, as if there must be something wrong with me. I took my mind back into those feelings of isolation - which wasn’t that much fun, I have to say, even all these years later –and that allowed me to feel for Imogen.
While writing The Accident – during the pandemic - I was very conscious of the presence of kunanyi, and of the way it so serenely presides over all our human joys and upheavals. At different times, the mountain is a reference point for all the main characters in the book.
THE ACCIDENT-AL WRITER Words: Stephanie Williams BOOKS
45 JONNO DUNIAMLIBESENATORRALSENATOR FOR TASMANIA 85 Macquarie Street, Hobar t TAS (03) 6231 2444 wwsenator.duniam@aph.gov.auw.duniam.com.au Authorised by Senator Jonno Duniam, 85 Macquarie Street HobartADVETASRTISEMENTPlease contact my office if I can be of any assistance. UPCOMING OPPORTUNITIES: Poochibald Art Prize Stitch by Stitch Textile & Fibre Exhibition Visit our website for more details www.clarenceartsandevents.net Amber Koroluk-Stephenson & Kelly Austin: Settings for Uncertainty and Judy Jackson: If these walls could speak EXHIBITIONS AT ROSNY FARM Image detail: Koroluk-StephensonAmber Until 18 September 11am–5pm Wednesday - Sunday Schoolhouse Gallery & Rosny Cottage Rosny Farm, Rosny Hill Road, Rosny Park Ph: 6217 9607 Opening Hours 8:30 am- 6:00 pm Monday - Friday 9:00 am - 2:00 pm Saturdays Home Health Aids Hire Free Document Certification Medication Packing Service Electronic Prescription Ready Free Local Area Home Delivery Friendly Service 6223 5203 360 Macquarie www.southhobartpharmacy.com.auStreet Support your local pharmacy Visit the Airwalk, experience the Eagle Hang Glider or book the Twin River Rafting adventure. The Huon Pine Walk is now open and is pram and wheelchair friendly! Open 7 days & Pet friendly!
46 GET FEATURED Pink ocean @the_aqua_dan Inspiring words from Bernadette Black’s interview in THM shared by @behealthwellbeing Bathurst & Molle Street @hobartstreetcorners Winter waves @the_aqua_da Tessellated Pavement @dailydoseoftassie Staying warm in Tassie @mitch_dan
47 GET FEATURED Tag #thehobartmag or @thehobartmagazine to be featured, or send your pics to editor@thehobartmagazine.com.au Letterboxes at Clifton Beach by Liz SandyOsborneBaysymphony in blue by Liz Osborne Lunchtime reading @culturahobart Hobart at night @click_click_click Sunrise at Kingston Beach my Instagram @alexflorezphoto Waterfall on kunanyi/Mt Wellington @dailydoseoftassie
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