FREE FEBRUARY 2021

Paramedic Recognised In April 2021 Mike will have served with as a top apprentice. He originally joined after it had folded some years before. From way. the Tasmanian Ambulance Service for 44 Ambulance Tasmania as volunteer serving the beginning of his 37 years in George His is a face that the George Town commu- years and four months. in his spare time working in George Town. Town, Mike has always been proud of his nity has come to know and respect. membership with the local RSL. He has Mike is an Intensive Care Paramedic and It was during this time he met his wife Lisa always been on hand at Anzac and Remem- A face that has given comfort to families in George Town has been very lucky to have a and had three children and now enjoy their brance services to help with setting up and their worried times, who has helped young dedicated member of the community with grandchildren. providing medical backup for these events. couples see new life enter the world and has such accreditation for the past 37 years. dealt with things we dare not to think of. Mike was a member of George Town Rotary It would be hard to find anyone in the In his younger years Mike did an appren- Club for a number of years, and was cred- George Town Municipality that have not Read More on Page 9 ticeship in sheet metal and he was awarded ited with re-starting Apex in George Town had their lives touched by Mike in some Spend your time wisely. Leave your Digital Marketing to us. Spend less time managing your digital marketing, and more time exploring what Tasmania has to offer!

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(03) 6327 1731 2 www.TamarValleyNews.com.au West Tamar Youth Burst into 2021

Above: West Tamar Council Mayor with Youth Mayor Chloe White (Photo: Sup- Above: Members of the West Tamar Youth Advisory Council (Photo: Supplied) plied) An unusual 2020 did not keep the West to the Legana Recreation Youth Space. Tamar Youth Development team and Youth Advisory Council from achieving the goals The West Tamar Council’s Stimulus Cap- set out in the 2020-2022 Youth Strategy. ital Works Package 2020/2021 allocated $150,000 for the construction of a pump Although our Youth Centres were closed track in Legana, with an additional $50,000 and Youth Advisory Council meetings had added to the project from the Tasmanian to be conducted online, young people in our Government’s Improving the Playing Field community remained connected through Grants. our new Youth Website and YouTube Chan- nel. The pump track has proven to be very pop- ular with all ages during the summer school With 10 weeks of ‘Monday Funday’ videos holidays since it was opened. setting challenges and prizes to be won, ‘How To’ videos full of recipes, origami and We ended the year on a high after receiving study tips, interviews with local bands and the news that we had been successful in re- adventures of the YAC mascot, there was ceiving a $70,000 grant from the Tasmanian plenty to keep our youth entertained and Community Fund for the Building Resilient Above: An aerial view of the new pump track at Legana (Photo: Supplied) engaged. Youth Program.

Below: West Tamar Youth enjoying the Legana Bike Track (Photo: Supplied) Youth Centres reopened in Term 3 as we The program will work with six schools re-engaged with the schools in our region in the West Tamar and JCP Empowering and went mountain bike riding, played foot Youth Programs to deliver a series of semi- golf and learnt graffiti in the September nars and possibly a camp, to arm our young School Holiday program. people with the ability to manage, adapt and work though the impacts of the current Our busiest month of the year was De- pandemic, while providing them with skills cember which saw the inauguration of to face the unknown in their future. Chloe White as our first Youth Mayor, after the Youth Strategy identified the goal of “COVID-19 presented an opportunity empowering young people with skills and for schools and local government to work confidence in our municipality. together and invest in shaping the future of the youth of the West Tamar by targeting The West Tamar Youth Mayor’s role is to mental health, and building resilience and recognise the importance of helping better relationships among peers,” Mayor Christi- represent young people in the West Tamar na Holmdahl said. by speaking on behalf of their needs and identifying opportunities to effectively work “West Tamar Council identified that work- towards empowering local young people. ing with schools, holds the key to the largest youth network in the municipality”. Below: West Tamar Council Mayor, Youth Mayor and MLC opening the “I want young people to engage in our Legana Pump Track (Photo: Supplied) community and be proud of it. I believe that We look forward to launching this program I can assist in this by raising awareness of along with many other exciting things our the activities that our Council provides and Community Services Department have in to help facilitate these activities,” Ms White store for 2021. said.

The first official duty of our Youth Mayor was to open the new Legana Pump Track alongside Mayor Christina Holmdahl and Prefer to Read Online? the Honourable Jo Palmer MLC on Satur- day 12th December 2020. Sign up to receive the After consultation was undertaken in 2019 digital edition delivered via for the new Youth Strategy, respondents email for FREE! identified that mountain bike tracks and bike friendly facilities were needed in the West Tamar.

This was reiterated by members of our Youth Advisory Council who suggested that a pump track would be a valuable addition Have News? Email: [email protected] 3 Snakes of no concern for the Snake Wrangler who has survived far worse

Above: Ian Jessup, the “Snake Wrangler” holding the biggest Tiger Snake he’s caught yet (Photo: Zac Lockhart)

Ian Jessup, the “Snake Wrangler”, is a pas- moments of his snake catching career where “I’m often catching copperheads and think that’s there first choice” Ian said. sionate man with a great love for snakes and he got called to Bellbuoy Beach after a man gosh I’d much prefer a big tiger.” life. went to the toilet and got quite the fright Ian has had several scares throughout his from an unwanted guest. Ian describes the copper head as being a life other than the ones presented when Like many in the business, Ian adopted his nervous snake and you don’t really know catching snakes. From surviving a brain tu- fascination with snakes from his father. Some people like to argue that they hold a which way they will try to bite you, unlike mour, 4 heart attacks and 2 plane crashes to deep connection with their pets on a very the tiger. being hit by lightning in Western Australia Having owned 3 snakes many years ago, intellectual basis, and maybe they do. Ian which he likes to describe as a “shocking” Ian has only recently got back into snake recalled a snake he got called out to catch “You give them a few minutes to calm down experience. handling after coming back from Western down at Badgers Head after a dog had been and they’ll just go like a piece of rope and be Australia. barking outside the woman’s door. very placid. First up they just go off which is Ian has also suffered broken bones and a bit exciting if you’re in a confined space.” multiple bleeds on his brain, but despite the Ian didn’t pursue a career in snake handling Upon opening the door, she was greeted by long list of medical complaints, he doesn’t whilst he was living in Western Australia, a tiger snake flying inside rather than the Retrieving snakes from people’s homes can let these dampen his sense of humour. “I’m however he still managed to have an up dog. be quite challenging and dangerous. dead in 2-3 days if I don’t take my medica- close and personal experience with a snake. tion, adrenaline junky. “It must have been saying sweet things, Ian shared a chilling story of when he was Ian was returning a set of scales back under otherwise the snake would have had it.” called to catch a snake in Exeter. The snake “I enjoy my life.” the bathroom bench and had inadvertently had disappeared into a garden shed but had pushed them back over the top of a snake. “I Initially the woman thought her dog was climbed up to the roof and was hiding. So far this year, the snakes that have been thought oh, it’s a kid’s toy. I watched it and trying to express its desire to go inside, but relocated are all quite large, but Ian says then it moved” Ian said. could it have been trying to warn her of the After standing with one foot on a vice and the biggest problem is getting there quick snake? the other on the work bench peering over enough. He successfully caught the snake, but decid- the top of the roof Ian had to look for the ed to let it go rather than keeping it. Unfortunately, not everyone’s household pet snake which was by no means a safe opera- Ian genuinely loves what he does and is only lives to ‘bark’ the tale after a close encounter tion. Ian got quite the shock when the snake too happy to take the call and gets excited Ian mostly services the Tamar Valley area, with a snake. suddenly appeared from the shadows. when the phone does ring. but has received the occasional call taking him out as far as Liffey and Derby. Ian was called to a tiger snake sighted Unfortunately, on this occasion the snake “The biggest problem is people don’t know in Glengarry where the family dog was got away after it disappeared through the we exist, or where to find us. They have the The minimum call out for reptile rescuers presumed to have been trying to protect its cracks in the roof. snake sighting out the back door, there an is only $50, and is a donation towards the young humans and got bitten instead. absolute mental tither and trying to locate volunteers expenses such as vehicle costs, Another call came in from Beaconsfield numbers.” equipment, insurance and training. In most cases, a snake bite to a pet is lethal, where a snake had slithered it’s way into which is not surprising given that tiger a room full of household items. The lady Ian encourages everyone in the Tamar Val- When you find a snake and make the call to snakes are highly venomous. nearly stepped on the snake but was quick ley to consider adding the phone number have it removed, you should definitely keep to call Ian. to their speed dial/contact list to reduce the a good watch on where it goes. “Snakes ar- “I think that one is the tenth one I’ve got added stress when they are greeted with the en’t hard to catch, but they’re hard to find.” from inside between Exeter and the coast With a bit of knowledge on snake be- presence of a snake on their property. Said Mr. Jessup already this year. Only two copper heads haviour, the snake was quickly located and all the rest have been tigers inside.” hiding in a box along the perimeter of the To get help from Ian when you need a Ian recalled a few of the more memorable room. “Snakes like to hold to the perimeter, snake relocated, call 0404 910 826 4 www.TamarValleyNews.com.au How do we Recent publicity and advertising by the Tamar Action Group has sparked new conversation about potential solutions and strategies to help fix the mud problem in the Tamar River.

While some are calling for dredging to re-commence, others are calling for the estuary to be just let be, and let nature take its course.

Some have even suggested more creative theories such as releasing copious amounts of water into the river in an effort to flush the silt out like flushing a toilet.

With so many theories and sugges- tions – we are eager to know your opinion!

To write a letter to the editor visit www.TamarValleyNews.com.au/ letter-to-the-editor

Above: View of the Tamar River from Launceston Seaport at low tide, looking past the Lady Launceston to show the mud flats. (Photo: Zac Lockhart)

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Email: [email protected] Have News? Email: [email protected] 5 fix the mud? Left: The Tamar Rowing Club pontoon becomes unusable at low tide, resting on the mudflats with no clear access to water deep enough to row in. (Photo: Zac Lockhart)

Below: An old bike is pulled from the mud flats at the Royal Park Mudflats. (Photo: Zac Lockhart)

Left: A vessel sits lopsided on the mud at low tide, an unfortunate fixture of one of our main tourism areas. (Photo: Zac Lockhart)

Below: A rusted chair is left stuck in the mud flats at low tide. (Photo: Zac Lockhart)

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03 6338 9224 Retirement & Superannuation Planning Financial advice for the people of the Tamar Valley [email protected] 6 www.TamarValleyNews.com.au COVID-19 Vaccine OPINION - Have an opinion/editorial to share? Rollout in Preparation Email [email protected] The Tasmanian Department of Health has opened Expressions of Interest for Regis- tered Nurses interested in joining Tasma- Supporting our volunteer firefighters as they help nia’s COVID-19 vaccination team. Tasmania already has 271 authorised immu- keep us safe nisers across Tasmania who have expressed an interest in supporting the COVID-19 vaccination rollout, including 177 nurse im- munisers and 89 pharmacists, and this latest EOI process comes on top of the Com- monwealth Government’s release of the GP Expression of Interest program released last weekend.

It is vital that Tasmania has an appropriately qualified and trained workforce to support the COVID-19 vaccination rollout, and I thank all professionals who have already put their hands up for this crucial program.

Tasmania’s COVID-19 vaccine workforce will consist of qualified and trained staff who are prepared to meet the demand as the vaccine program is rolled out across Tasmania through 2021.

The workforce will support services at our hospitals, GP clinics and at state and federal government clinics that will be rolled out around the State through the year, as well as any outreach centres for vulnerable commu- nities such as those in aged care.

Importantly, Registered Nurses do not need to be an existing authorised nurse immu- niser to be part of this program. Staff will receive specific training relating to the vac- cine, and work under the direct guidance of authorised nurse immunisers.

Photo: Supplied The welcomes the provisional approval of the Pfizer COVID vaccine by the Therapeutic Goods Ad- Written By Michelle O’Byrne MP, Volunteer firefighters are truly the heroes date with the latest information. ministration on Monday and work is well Deputy Labor Leader and Labor of the Tasmanian summer – they put their underway here in Tasmania on what will be lives on the line for our communities and Doing these things not only helps keeps Member for Bass one of the biggest health logistical exercises don’t expect anything in return. you and your loved ones safe, but will also in recent history. make the lives of our volunteers easier. As the days get warmer, with high tem- Most brigades train monthly, or even peratures and strong winds often whipping The Tasmanian Government is working fortnightly, sacrificing their own summer Bushfires are a constant threat across up dangerous conditions, the bushfire dan- closely with the Australian Government on to make sure people are safe. Northern Tasmania and the rest of the state ger in our communities is set to intensify. the COVID-19 vaccine rollout and we will and we owe a great debt of gratitude to our continue to communicate with the Tasma- Volunteers train all year and spend their volunteer fire brigades. As we’ve learnt from recent tragedies, nian community as we work through the summers standing by to support us – bushfires don’t care what time it is or what roll-out logistics with the Federal Govern- watching, waiting, and preparing to pro- Not only do they help protect their own is in their path, and we all need to be ment. vide any assistance that is needed. communities but they also provide addi- vigilant and have a bushfire plan, including tional support to other areas to help keep when to leave, where to go, how to secure The national COVID-19 vaccination That is why it is crucial that we support everyone safe. pets and property and ensuring you know program is expected to commence in late them in return and do the right thing – where your friends and family are. February 2021. extinguish camp fires, obey fire warnings, We need to show them the same support in listen to ABC local radio and, most impor- return. Buildings can be replaced but lives A crucial part of this plan is knowing when tantly, have a plan. cannot. to leave – and an early decision to leave your property may not only save your life The Tasmanian Fire Service website and I urge everyone to have a plan for the but also save our volunteer firefighters and social media are two fantastic resources for ever-increasing bushfire threat. It is our other emergency workers. making a bushfire plan and staying up-to- greatest defence.

BRIDGET ARCHER MP FEDERAL MEMBER FOR BASS Representing our community 6334 7033 [email protected] bridgetarcher.com.au BridgetArcherMP

Authorised by B. Archer, Liberal Party of Australia, 100 St John St, Launceston TAS 7250. Have News? Email: [email protected] 7 Exciting new “Cellar Door of the Future” in the Tamar Valley come and enjoy the wines, and views.

Although the COVID-19 Pandemic has had an impact on the business, Lou said they were grateful for the support they have since received after having to shut the cellar door for five months.

“When we opened in August, we were really well supported both by the locals, and from around the state.

The new Stoney Rise Cellar Door is open for business, however capacity limits due to the pandemic are still in place.

“It’s a place where you can stay for as little or as long as you like, you can come in and do a self-guided wine flight and taste 4 wines alongside each other, or if you want to call in for a sneaky glass on your way to the beach, there’s that option there as well.”

“By no means are we a winery restaurant, but we have amazing snacks that compli- ment our wines and drinks list.”

“We don’t expect a lot from people, just to use the space like they would their own y ard .”

For more information or to make a Above: Stoney Rise Owners Lou & Joe Holyman in the new “Cellar Door of the Future” at their Gravelly Beach winery (Pho- booking, visit stoneyrise.com to: Supplied)

The Tamar Valley is well-known as a popu- offers a better experience, with customers Sunday session and might not want to drink lar wine region of Tasmania, being home to now being able to enjoy wine by the glass, our wine – and we get that.” many esteemed wineries and vineyards. and some snack options to go with the wine. “It also enables us to share the world of wine One of these esteemed wineries, Stoney The cellar door, which recently won a with other people,” Said Lou, “and the wines Rise, now hosts what they are calling the design award from the West Tamar Coun- that we like to drink ourselves.” ‘Cellar Door of the future’. cil, features a versatile space designed to be Prefer to Read Online? cosy in the winter, yet open in the summer. “To open those up to people and help edu- Although Stoney Rise already had a cellar cate them that there are wines out there at door at the property, the facility was con- “When we decided to build this, we thought reasonable price points.” Sign up to receive the nected to their home, and offered less space outside the square and because it was new, digital edition delivered via than the new, modern design. we had an opportunity to do something There are also a large number of non-alco- email for FREE! different.” Said Lou. holic drinks available for those still wanting “A fancy cellar door doesn’t make the wine to socialise over a drink and enjoy the space taste any better, nor did the small cellar “That’s why we’ve offered an extensive without the alcohol. door make it taste any worse.” Said Owner drinks list, and that’s for a couple of reasons, Lou Holyman. because cellar door wines can be a little So far, said Lou, the public response to the bit boring sometimes, especially to locals new cellar door had been really positive, In saying this though, the new cellar door who want to come out once a month for a with both locals and tourists being able to

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Email [email protected] or visit www.TamarValleyNews.com.au/advertise to learn more! 8 www.TamarValleyNews.com.au West Tamar Celebrates Award Re- cipients and New Citizens

Photo: Supplied

The West Tamar Council’s Australia Day singers to regional destinations, successfully disadvantaged young people from local Australia’s shared values, including re- Awards and Citizenship Ceremony was held running since 2018. football clubs to the Lebanese and Syrian spect for the freedom and dignity of the on Tuesday 26th January 2021 at 7:30am at border. individual, the rule of law and democracy, the Riverside Golf Club, with approximately • Mayor’s Award – Roslyn Burr, an active and equality of opportunity for all people,” 100 guests in attendance. and engaged member of the West Tamar He is the founder of JCP Empowering Mayor Holmdahl said. community through the Exeter Golf Club, Youth, which enables successful leaders to The awards recognise outstanding contribu- Legana Tennis Club, West Tamar Seniors improve the lives of young people through “Each year we are privileged to welcome tions to the West Tamar Community, with Advisory Group and her volunteer work at school, leadership and community pro- new Australians to our growing community presentations made in the categories of ‘Cit- the Tamar Visitor Centre. grams. as part of Australia Day celebrations”. izen of the Year’, ‘Young Citizen of the Year’, ‘Community Event/Group of the Year’ and a Mayor Christina Holmdahl said “The West “We’re excited to hear from Will Smith at New citizens received gifts to remember ‘Mayor’s Award’. Tamar Council Australia Day Awards our Australia Day Awards as he shares the the occasion, along with their Australian recognise those in our community who important work which he has been doing Citizenship. The 2021 winners were: have made outstanding contributions to our with young people, as well as the Build- municipality. ing Resilient Youth Program which he’s • Citizen of the Year – Catherine Connell, They come from all walks of life and give embarking on in partnership with the West Prefer to Read Online? an inspirational role model for her students selflessly, often over a number of years. Tamar Council and local schools in 2021,” at Miss B’s Student Services and the greater On behalf of the West Tamar Council and Mayor Christina Homdahl said. community. everyone in our community, I thank them Sign up to receive the most sincerely for their We also welcomed 10 new citizens from digital edition delivered via • Young Citizen of the Year – Patrick Rose- contributions”. Vietnam, Singapore, United Kingdom, India email for FREE! vear, for his ongoing volunteering roles and China to our municipality, in an im- and advocacy for the West Tamar. West Tamar Council’s 2021 Australia Day portant part of the proceedings committing Ambassador was Will Smith who also spoke them to being an active member of Austra- • Community Event/Group of the Year – at the event. lian society. Festival Of Small Halls, an important social occasion for locals and the wider communi- Mr Smith won the 2020 Tasmanian Young “There is no greater privilege than our ty delivering world class musicians and Australian of the Year award for helping citizenship. It’s a life-long commitment to Have News? Email: [email protected] 9 George Town Locals Recognised

The older children entertaining themselves, playing beach volleyball on the playground and cricket on the tennis courts. People were happy, sitting with friends and family, soaking up the atmosphere in a Covid 19 friendly environment.

The dedicated committee of the Weymouth Progress Association, have the appreciation that events don’t need to be complicated, great music and food, BYO beverages some entertainment for the kids can bring a smile to everyone’s face.

The Association has been swamped with requests to hold similar events in future, and intend to do so.

The New Year’s Eve Extravaganza 2020 was a joint effort between The George Town Neighbourhood House and the Crazy Duck.

The event organisers delivered a profes- sional and successful New Year’s Eve event, with two fireworks displays at 9.30pm and midnight to celebrate the coming of the New Year. Left-to-right: Australia Day Ambassador Heather Francis, Citizen of the Year Mike Barrenger, and George Town Mayor Greg Kieser (Photo: Zac Lockhart) This event catered for all ages and was free Thunderous applause was heard in George Mike received his award briefly in-between holiday makers. In 2020 the Weymouth entry between 5pm - 9pm with lots of fami- Town as the citizen of the year was an- calls, ready to leave early if needed, having Progress Association (a group of voluntary ly attractions including pony rides & petting nounced. been rostered on to work for Australia day. community members) was unable to con- zoo, zorb balls, train rides, swing cars and duct their usual activities and events due to mechanical bull. Michael Francis Barrenger was born 12th Speaking to Tamar Valley News, Mike said the pandemic so channeled their energy to April 1956, and in April 2021 Mike will he was proud to receive the award, but em- resource and organise an event that would Throughout the event there was live music, have served with the Tasmanian Ambulance phasised the support he had to get it. bring residents together after the long food and beverage stalls, performances Service for 44 years and four months. After months of Covid 19 restrictions. from various artists including from Bee Bop gaining accreditation as a paramedic he “It’s not something that I’ve done on my Dance Studio. Between 9pm-midnight the continued his studies both in Tasmania and own. I’ve had a heck of a lot of support from It had to be fun and relaxed, for all residents ticketed event began which offered a wet Melbourne. volunteers over the years, literally hundreds young and old, to enjoy and reconnect and area, food vans, novelty lighting stall and and not to mention the problems that have celebrate. The Association successfully more live music. Mike is actually an Intensive Care Paramed- occurred over the year’s family wise, with applied for the George Town Council Covid ic and George Town has been very lucky to being called out all hours of the day and 19 Event Recovery grant, which enabled the The event was graciously supported by a have a dedicated member of the commu- night, missing all the kids developmental Association to resource all their ideas for number of local businesses and was well nity with such accreditation for the past 37 stages and all that sort of business, my wife this event. patronised by the local community who years. has played a big part in that.” enjoyed a great afternoon and night of good The event was an outstanding success, with food and marvelous entertainment. All In his younger years Mike did an appren- When asked how Mike finds time amongst over 150 Weymouth residents in attendance. profits from the event will be used to exe- ticeship in sheet metal and he was awarded his busy schedule to give back to much to Aided by beautiful weather, a celebration cute this years New Year’s Eve Extravaganza. as a top apprentice. He originally joined the community, he said it came down to and unveiling of the mural installation on Ambulance Tasmania as volunteer serving being something he enjoys. the rear of the tennis court shelter, a jump- If social media is a measure of success in his spare time working in George Town. ing castle, face painting for the children, a then this event blew it out of the park, the It was during this time he met his wife Lisa “It’s something that I enjoy, doing service BBQ cooked by the local experts, wonderful community was full for praise on what had and had three children and now enjoy their work. Apex, rotary, the RSL, its just interests cheese platters to accompany the beverages been a challenging year for everyone, as the grandchildren. and you like to see these things flourish, brought by the patrons, all while enjoying fireworks were enjoyed both sides of the especially in a small town like George Town the music provided by Big Al, made for the Tamar River. Mike was a member of George Town Rotary which has been great to me and my family.” perfect evening. Club for a number of years, and was cred- ited with re-starting Apex in George Town Mike also offered some advice to those who after it had folded some years before. From want to give back to their local community. the beginning of his 37 years in George Town, Mike has always been proud of his “Just get involved. Everyone’s got a few membership with the local RSL. minutes to spare.” EricABETZ He has always been on hand at Anzac and “There’s people out there that could really Liberal Senator for TASMANIA Remembrance services to help with setting use the help just for a few minutes a day or up and providing medical backup for these a few hours a week and that’s where you get events. a lot of benefit and you become a part of the community by doing it.” It would be hard to find anyone in the Serving all George Town Municipality that have not George Town also congratulated the dual had their lives touched by Mike in some winners of it’s community event of the year Tasmanians way. award, which this year was split between the Weymouth Community Family Fun Day His is a face that the George Town commu- and the New Years Eve Extravaganza 2020. nity has come to know and respect. The Weymouth Community Family Fun Day was organised by the Weymouth prog- A face that has given comfort to families in ress association. their worried times, who has helped young couples see new life enter the world and has Weymouth is a small seaside coastal village, [email protected] (03) 6224 3707 dealt with things we dare not to think of. a community of permanent residents and Authorised by Eric Abetz, 136 Davey St, Hobart TAS 7000 Want access to free-to-read Local Tasmanian News?

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Don't forget to 'like' us on Facebook to stay up to date! Have News? Email: [email protected] 11 Tasmanian Labor announces a new shadow cabinet

Above: The new Labor Shadow Cabinet members outside Parliament House. (Photo: Tasmanian Labor on Facebook)

Labor Leader Rebecca White has unveiled a they need for the future.” She said. Emergency Management tions new Shadow Cabinet with Huon Legislative • Shadow Minister for Building and Con- Council Member assuming The shadow ministry will be made up of struction David O’Byrne MP responsibility for Health and Rumney MLC, the following individuals: • Shadow Minister for Consumer Affairs taking on the Child Safety • Shadow Minister for Community • Shadow Treasurer portfolio. Rebecca White MP, Labor Leader Development • Shadow Minister for Energy • Shadow Minister for Arts and Creative • Shadow Minister for Sport Ms White said “Dr Seidel’s experience as • Shadow Minister for Federal State Industries • Shadow Minister for Racing a GP and a former President of the Royal Relations Australian College of General Practitioners • Shadow Minister for Trade and Invest- Anita Dow MP Bastian Seidel MLC and Clinical Professor at the University ment of Tasmania, was the perfect fit to take on • Shadow Minister for Tourism, Hospi- • Shadow Minister for Local Govern- • Shadow Minister for Health Health and hold the government to account tality and Events ment and Planning for the ongoing crisis it has created in the • Shadow Minister for Aboriginal Affairs • Shadow Minister for Regional Develop- MLC state’s health system over the past seven ment and Small Business y e ar s .” Michelle O’Byrne MP, Deputy Labor • Shadow Minister for Transport • Shadow Minister for Disability Leader • Shadow Minister for Manufacturing • Shadow Minister for Ageing Ms White said “Ms Lovell would have a • Shadow Minister for Veterans’ Affairs clear focus on the ongoing crisis in Child • Shadow Minister for Economic Devel- Ella Haddad MP Safety, particularly on the eve of the- opment, Jobs and ICT Alison Standen MP Commission of Inquiry into Child Sexual • Shadow Minister for TAFE, University • Shadow Attorney-General Abu s e .” and Skills • Shadow Minister for Justice • Shadow Minister for Housing • Shadow Minister for Women, Equality • Shadow Minister for Corrections • Shadow Minister for Climate Change “I am fortunate to have an enormous depth and Prevention of Family Violence • Shadow Minister for Environment, of talent in the Labor team and these chang- Jennifer Houston MP Parks and Heritage es really play to our strengths.” Shane Broad MP • Shadow Minister for Multicultural MLC “Labor’s focus is on ensuring that the state • Shadow Minister for Infrastructure Affairs does not simply return to normal after the • Shadow Minister for Primary Indus- • Shadow Minister Education and Early pandemic, because normal wasn’t good tries, Fisheries and Water Sarah Lovell MLC Years enough for too many Tasmanians.” • Shadow Minister for Resources • Shadow Minister for Youth Affairs • Leader of Opposition Business in the “We need to get more people into jobs, we Jenna Butler MP Legislative Council need to improve the health system and we • Shadow Minister for Child Safety need to ensure our children get the skills • Shadow Minister for Police, Fire and • Shadow Minister for Workplace Rela- 12 www.TamarValleyNews.com.au More than $100 million for Integrated Nominations Mental Health Services open for

the 28-day readmission rate taking the state below the national average. Volunteering

Reducing seclusion is a key focus of our mental health services, and while there has Awards 2021 been a slight increase in seclusion events from 2017-18 to 2018-19, it is positive to see the overall downward trend for the use of Volunteers are a vital part of Tasmania’s so- seclusion in Tasmania. cial fabric and the 2021 Tasmanian Volun- teering Awards is an opportunity for us all This is a result of concerted efforts over to thank and celebrate the important work time to reduce restrictive practices in our they do each and every day. hospitals Tasmania is home to more than 297,000 The rate of community follow-up is an area volunteers who enable many events and ser- Tasmania has significantly improved in over vices to operate in each corner of the State. recent years. A decrease in 2018-19 figures was due to employment related issues, and Without our volunteers, many of these does not represent an ongoing change in events and services would simply not occur. service delivery. This year a new category has been added, Above: File Image The Tasmanian Government’s significant re- the Youth Volunteer Award, which high- form agenda will continue to build a better lights Tasmanian volunteers aged 25 years In a statement, Jeremy Rockliff, Minister services and better support patients and mental health system, including through the or younger who contribute to building for Mental Health and Wellbeing said the staff, with a more than $100 million plan for Tasmanian Mental Health Reform Program a stronger, healthier and more resilient Tasmanian Government is taking a best new facilities, additional staff and resources, and the Government’s response to the Child Tasmania. practice approach to building a contempo- along with increased support for the com- and Adolescent Mental Health Service rary, integrated model of mental health and munity mental health and alcohol and other review. Winners of the Tasmanian Volunteering alcohol and other drugs care so people can drugs sectors. Awards will be announced during National get more holistic support at the right place Volunteer Week, at a special event at Gov- and at the right time. The Report on Government Services shows ernment House on 17 May 2021. Tasmania is already making positive prog- Mental health funding is increasing to boost ress on mental health, with a decrease in Nominations close at midnight on 15 March 2021.

Contact Kyle today for a no obligation, FREE market update of your home or KYLE

investments. NorthernBARRETT Tasmanian Real Estate Specialist There are three key areas to focus on when preparing your home for sale to help you get the best price:

1. Make simple repairs - One of the biggest turn-offs for buyers is wear and tear such as chipped tiles, cracked windows, scuffed paintwork, stained carpets, and other obvious signs of damage. These unsightly areas instantly alert buyers there is work required, which can diminish their initial enthusiasm for your property and lower the price they are prepared to pay.Discuss with your agent which areas you should overhaul before holding open homes. You want to ensure you are increasing appeal without overcapitalising.

2. Clean and declutter - Study other houses currently on the market and you will see they have been decluttered, cleaned thoroughly, and may even have been styled to look modern and pristine.Removing lots of clutter makes the prospective buyer able to see the room properly while more importantly, making the room appear larger.Cleaning the house, even hidden areas such as under the sink, makes the house look well-cared for. This gives the buyer a subliminal impression that the house has been well-maintained and there should be no hidden problems.

3. Style your home - Styling is another instant facelift that can give your property a fresh look which appeals to buyers. You can hire a stylist to take care of this for you, or hire furniture and accessories and do it yourself.

0499 440 141 [email protected] 287 Invermay Road, Invermay, 7248 Have News? Email: [email protected] 13 Crossword

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 Clues:

9 10 Across Down 9 Fit (7) 1 Clairvoyant (7) 10 Small long-tailed bird (3-4) 2 Consternation (6) 11 12 11 Claire Hooper, for example (5) 3 Powerful (8) 12 Misnamed fruit bat (6,3) 4 Enforce pit discipline to achieve improvement (10) 13 Utopian (7) 5 180-degree turn (4) 13 14 14 Some arts (7) 6 Disposable mobile phone (6) 15 Sydney-born country singer (7,6) 7 Some wall art (8) 20 At the start (5,2) 8 Banished (2,5) 15 16 17 22 Flat-bottomed canal or harbour barge (7) 14 Popular NSW National Park (5,5) 18 19 24 Coiner of "Those who cannot 16 Bombastic monologue (8) remember the past are condemned 17 Enlisted (6,2) 20 21 22 23 to repeat it" (9) 18 Mass-to-volume ratio (7) 26 Register (5) 19 Musical introduction (7) 27 Mocked (7) 21 Like fresh bread (6) 24 25 26 28 Developed over time (7) 23 Prosper (6) 25 Chucks in (4) 27 28 Jokes: How does a penguin build its house? atmosphere! Igloos it together Answers (Turn page upside down) I went to the supermarket to buy

If you have to wear a mask and

E E N S S Y E Y some milk, the checkout attendant

glasses, you may be entitled to

asked me if I would the milk in a

D E V L O V E D E T N U A

T condensation

28

27 bag, I replied ‘No, I’d rather drink

U I D K D S G

I it out of the carton.’

L O R N E A N A Y A T N A S Nothing tops a plain pizza...

26 25 24

E H N L E A N This graveyard looks overcrowd-

Did you hear about the restau-

R E T H G I L N O Y L R A

E ed. People must be dying to get in

23 22 21

20 rant on the moon? Great food, no

P I L O A D there!

19 18

N I T S U A É I R R E H S

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E T Y T A C

L A I T R A M C I L L Y D I

14 13 Samsons Bedding

I F E E U A

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Y Beaconsfield

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I G B Y P M D P

8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 www.samsonsbedding.com.au

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Phone: (03) 6327 1731 Email: [email protected] Have News? Email: [email protected] 15 Wombat poo mystery solved

Above: Wombats are the only animal to produce these distinctive, geometrical- Above, Top-Right: Bare-nosed wombats mark their home range with faeces, placing them on prominent points such as ly shaped poos (Photo: Dr Scott Carver) rocks and logs to communicate with each other (Photo: Dr Scott Carver)

An international study into how wombats The cubed poo study focuses on bare-nosed The combination of drying out of the faeces be applied to other fields including manu- produce their distinctive cube-shaped poo (common) wombats, which are predomi- in the distal colon and muscular contrac- facturing, clinical pathology and digestive has shed further light on the physics behind nantly found across south-eastern Australia. tions forms the regular size and corners of health. this biological puzzle. the faeces. “Bare-nosed wombats are renowned for The results could also be used to inform The research, published today in the journal producing distinctive, cube-shaped poos. Wombat intestines are approximately wombat monitoring and welfare manage- Soft Matter, expands on the discovery that This ability to form relatively uniform, clean 10-metres long, or 10 times the length of a ment practices. wombat poo forms its geometric shape cut faeces is unique in the animal kingdom,” typical wombat’s body. within the wombat’s intestines, not at the Dr Carver said. “Cube formation can help us understand point of exit as previously thought. When humans eat, food items travel the hydration status of wombats, as their “They place these faeces at prominent through the gut in a matter of a day or two. faeces can appear less cubed in wetter con- The team of Australian and US scientists points in their home range, such as around A wombat’s digestive process takes up to ditions. It also shows how intestinal stiffen- were awarded an Ig Nobel prize for ‘re- a rock or a log, to communicate with each four times as long so it can extract all ing can produce smooth sides as a feature of search that makes you laugh then think’ in other. Our research found that these cubes the nutritional content possible. pathology,” Dr Carver said. 2019. are formed within the last 17 per cent of the colon intestine.” They are also more efficient at extracting “Now we understand how these cubes are University of Tasmania wildlife ecologist Dr water from the intestine, with their faeces a formed, but there is still much to be learned Scott Carver made the accidental discovery Through a combination of laboratory third drier than humans. about wombat behaviour to fully under- while dissecting a wombat cadaver as part testing and mathematical models, the re- stand why they evolved to produce cubes in of his primary research into treating mange searchers discovered that there are two stiff Dr Carver said the discovery highlights an the first place.” disease in wombats. and two more flexible regions around the entirely new way of manufacturing cubes circumference of the wombat intestine. – inside a soft tube – and the results could Queen Victoria Art Gallery welcomes a series of TSO Concerts

2021 will see a new collaboration between north close. propelling music is woven around a Russian the Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra and folk theme in honour of the culture of his the Queen Victoria Art Gallery with the “This inaugural event, in collaboration with The second concert in February will cele- patron, Count Andreas Razumovsky. commencement of the Royal Park Series. QVMAG, marks the first concert of 2021 in brate Strauss and Beethoven. Combining Launceston. TSO is thrilled with our new strings and winds, Beethoven’s celebrated Alongside the performances, the Queen The series will celebrate the connection partnership, and look forward to perform- Septet created the template and set the Victoria Art Gallery is currently displaying between an iconic art space and world-class ing in the iconic venue that has enriched the benchmark for all later works of this type. five new exhibitions that launched across music with three shows held at the Queen state with its art and history since 1891. The December and January. Before each TSO Victoria Art Gallery, Royal Park on 30 Jan- atmospheric surrounds of the gallery pro- It commences with a voluminous adagio performance, visitors are invited to view uary, 20 February and 10 April, at 2pm and vide the perfect backdrop for this concert, and concludes with a full-force presto. new exhibitions: Nest - Alastair Mooney, again at 4.30pm. which also includes the debut performance Richard Strauss’ tone poem Till Eulenspie- Skin - Gary Greenwood, Lost Landscapes the Tasmanian String Quartet.” gel is given a dazzling makeover in Franz - Anne Zahalka, Herself - featuring Tasma- General Manager of Creative Arts and Cul- Hasenöhrl’s arrangement for chamber nian female artists of the QVMAG collec- tural Services Tracy Puklowski said, “We are The first concert was held on Sunday 30 ensemble. tion and Wrapped in Culture - a world first so excited to partner with the TSO. To be January, Sublime Strings, featuring the collaboration of First Nations artist from sharing their sounds with our community is Tasmanian String Quartet, a new ensemble The final concert in the series on April 10 Canada and Australia. a great joy. It will allow our visitors to expe- from the orchestra. Barber’s deeply emotive is the Razumovsky Quartet. This delightful rience our new summer season exhibitions adagio opens this concert before fel- concert opens with the string quartet in D – Tickets for the Launceston Royal Park with fresh eyes, and ears!”. low-American composer Jessie Montgom- playful, rhythmic and quintessentially Mo- Series of concerts are on sale via the ery raises spirits with unifying melodies and zart. Beethoven’s own rousing ‘Razumovsky’ TSO website, www.tickets.tso.com.au. TSO CEO Caroline Sharpen is delighted upbeat rhythms. Beethoven’s String Quartet Quartet was commissioned in 1806 during to share the TSO experience in the island’s brings the concert to a light and enjoyable the composer’s heroic ‘middle period’. His 16 www.TamarValleyNews.com.au Matthew Curling Friend (1792 - 1871) - Naval Officer, Inventor, Marine Scientist & Port Officer

By Maggie Fletcher used for shipping horses which Mary Ann called ‘Cottage Ornee’. Matthew Curling Friend was 40 years old when he took up office as Port Officer at He was offered the position of Surveyor Launceston in September 1832. General of Western Australia which he declined, and with his brothers Daniel He joined the Navy in 1806 at 14 years old and George, the couple left Swan River and for eight years sailed the African coast, and sailed South-east for Tasmania on the the West Indies, the East Indian and China Wanstead. waters and off Boulonge and Cherbourg as a Volunteer Midshipman and Master’s Mate, Once in Tasmania he applied for a land and was involved in several skirmishes off grant, but had to go to England to get per- the coast of France. mission from the Admiralty.

He was on the Theban on a convoy to China He returned to Tasmania on the Norval when the ship lost her main and mizzen with Mary Anne and her widowed mother masts in a typhoon. in July 1832.

In 1815 he was promoted to the rank of In September of that year he became Port Lieutenant, and was appointed to the guard Officer at Launceston and built the home serving on the Bucephalus to escort Napo- ‘ N e w n h a m’. leon Bonaparte to St. Helena. What should have been the start to an idyl- It was this commission that is said to have lic life with this position in such a beautiful changed him, and in 1816 he left the navy environment, became instead an ongoing on half-pay to follow his scientific interests. battle as he was victimized by William ABOVE: An oil portrait of Matthew Curling Friend c1820 Supplied from Lushington Goodwin, the future editor and the Private Collection of the Friend Family. By the time he married his first wife, artist proprietor of the ‘Cornwall Chronicle’, who Mary Ann Ford in 1826, he was 34 and had had also applied for the position of Port Curling Friend and his associate Harbour In 1840 he married Helen Sarah Burrington been successful in scientific pursuits. Officer. Master, Henry Matson of ‘gross negligence’. at Kelso.

He had constructed a meridian line in the Matthew’s first duties were to restore the This resulted in a libel action and in 1839 He continued his scientific pursuits Clock House of Ramsgate Harbour, and as Windmill Hill Flagstaff and build a ‘sea Matthew won damages of 400 pounds throughout his life and was keenly inter- ‘a gentleman of great acquirements, partic- mark or lighthouse’ at the entrance to the which he used to erect a spire on the George ested in George Augustus Robinson’s work ularly in nautical and practical astronomy’, Tamar River. Town church. with the Aboriginals. he was elected F.R.S., Fellow of the Royal Society, in recognition of his achievements Known by the Aborigines as kanamaluka, Although Anglican he was active in various He lectured on astronomy, had notes on in researching corals. the River Tamar is a 70km navigable estuary church activities regardless of denomina- celestial phenomena published in the opening out onto Bass Strait. tion. Examiner, and was active in the Launceston He entered the Sydney Sussex College, Horticultural Society. Cambridge, received the gold medal of the In 1834 after the wreck of ‘The Duke of His wife Mary Ann died of apoplexy at 38 Medic-Botanical Society of London, then a Kent’, Matthew was transferred to George whilst dressing for a ball. Twenty years after taking on the position of diploma from the Royal Statistical Society Town to became Landing Waiter and Police Port Officer, Matthew Curling Friend was of France. Magistrate as well as Port Officer. It was suggested that this was caused by totally blind and he resigned and returned the stress of the ongoing attacks by Good- to England, yet he still retained an interest Three years after their marriage, Matthew, He was responsible for installing the line of win. The Rev. Dr. William Browne accused in nautical science and invented an instru- with his wife Mary Anne and his brothers, semaphore from Mount George to Wind- Goodwin of murder from his pulpit. ment called ‘The Pelorus’ which corrects sailed on the Wanstead the merchant ship of mill Hill in Launceston. At this stage, in the deviations, etc. of ships’ compasses so which he was master transporting settlers to 1835, he had the residence now known as Matthew Curling Friend was a well liked that observations may be taken by ordinary the Swan River Colony in Western Austra- ‘The Grove’ built. and respected man in George Town. sailors. lia. In 1838 the Honduras was wrecked on the He used to patrol the river in a yacht and Today in George Town, Friend Street is They had hoped to settle there and stayed Tamar, and William Lushington Goodwin helped organise the first Tamar and George named for this dashing, interesting man. for several weeks on a sandy beach in a started a series of vicious attacks in the Town Regattas. home constructed from a timber container ‘Cornwall Chronicle’ accusing Matthew

GEORGE TOWN & DISTRICT HISTORICAL SOCIETY INC.

Meetings are held on the 3rd Monday each month, starting at 7.30 pm, usually at The Grove, 25 Cimitiere St, George Town. January, February and March meetings are held at Low Head, Hillwood & the Piper District respectively. Meetings are free and open to the public, but a gold coin donation towards supper is appreciated.

Annual Memberships: $15 single; $25 couple; $5 students - due in October.

NEXT MEETING (in conjunction with the Hillwood Garden Club)

MONDAY, 15th February in Hillwood Memorial Hall, Jetty Rd, Hillwood at 7.30 pm

Speakers: Jon & Margaret Hosford

“Windermere’s St Matthias Church (1843) - from the past to the present”

Website: www.gtdhs.com Email: [email protected]