Bass Bulletin - November 2020

Bass Bulletin BUDGET2020

NEW NORTHERN SUBURBSI DOCTOR A BOOST FORI LOCAL COMMUNITY I

Play time for local schools

FULL REPORT page 3

Dr Shadi Emamisadr at the Mowbray Medical Practice with colleagues Dr Sujana Nepal, Dr Deepak Sidhu (Registrar) and Dr Jane Hampson with Bridget Archer MP. The practice is celebrating the arrival of Dr Emamisadr and the extra services they can now provide to the community. Report page 3.

Northern Tasmanian schools unveil improved play spaces for students, created with assistance from the Federal Government’s Local Schools Community Fund.

Small Business Support

There are thousands of small businesses in northern Tasmania, so finding a meaningful way to support those impacted by COVID-19 has led Federal Member for Bass Bridget Archer to create weekly Small Business Shout Outs.

“I’m proud of how strongly the Morrison Government is supporting small businesses through a range of measures, including JobKeeper,” Mrs Archer said.

“On a local level, I wanted to show my support in a way that would hopefully have a tangible impact, no matter how small.

“The shout outs through Facebook began in late March and the response from the community has been wonderful.

“From West Tamar to the North East, Launceston central and across the region, the community has thrown their support behind so many of the small businesses featured every week.

“This has also led to many community members letting me know of a particular business that they loved and would love to see supported which I endeavour to do.”

For owner of Launceston’s Florage, Karen Bugelli, the shout out her business received in early April proved beneficial as the realities of COVID-19 struck in the early days.

HEARTFELT THANKS TO LGH HEALTHCARE WORKERS

When COVID first found its way to Tasmania, the response was swift.

At the Launceston General Hospital, a dedicated COVID-19 ward was prepared to care for patients with the virus who did not require intensive care and the help of a ventilator to breathe. Months after the initial COVID-19 impact hit, high-risk patients who present to the Emergency Department continue to be immediately screened.

For months on end, hospital staff on the COVID ward donned the full PPE to treat patients as they were admitted. This was an incredibly high-stress situation for the workers who showed up for every shift with the utmost professionalism.

After some negative media attention left dedicated health workers feeling pretty flat, Federal Member for Bass Bridget Archer put the call out for northern Tasmanians to lift morale.

And how the community delivered!

“The response was overwhelming, leading to the creation of a Book of Thanks, where all the messages of support, including a wonderful letter of thank you from Federal Minister for Health Greg Hunt, was presented to LGH staff who were so grateful for the community support.”

“When Bridget placed her order and gave a shout out online, we were in a difficult situation with COVID-19 and we were just blown away by her sharing her love and supporting small business. We just loved it,” Ms Bugelli said.

If you know a small business deserving of a shout out, please email bridget.archer.mp@aph.gov.au

Karen Bugelli inside her Florage store at 7 Hobart road, Launceston.

LGH staff Robyn Hayes (Nurse Unit Manager), Matt Carswell (Nurse) and Jenny Wood (Senior Pharmacist, Acute Medical Unit), receiving the Book of Thanks from Bridget Archer.

New doctor supporting suburban community

The opportunity to offer a greater amount of health care for Launceston’s northern suburbs community has come as a relief to the Mowbray Medical Practice.

Doctor Jane Hampson, GP Supervisor at the practice, said the arrival of Dr Shadi Emamisadr from Western Australia has allowed for the provision of more hours of service and more skills to those who walk through their doors.

“It’s just been fantastic to have Dr Emamisadr, who is very knowledgeable and has great personal skills,” Dr Hampson said.

Mowbray Medical, as with some other medical practices in the Launceston area, have struggled in recent years to retain and attract general practitioners, an issue which they have raised with Federal Member for Bass Bridget Archer.

“I’ve been working with Mowbray Medical now for about 12 months, along with other GPs in the Launceston region, over some of the issues they face in terms of attracting and retaining GPs and nurse practitioners,” Mrs Archer said.

“I understand their concerns about their ability to provide care to the wider community and have been working to advocate for their needs. We have had a number of meetings, including bringing both Minister for Health Greg Hunt and Minister for Regional Health Mark Coulton to northern Tasmania to meet with the practices, prior to COVID-19.

“In recent months I have also connected practices directly with Department officials. As a result of these conversations, there has been some movement and positive results, including what we now see with Mowbray Medical attracting such wonderful talent like Dr Emamisadr.

“Of course, that work is not finished. I will continue to advocate strongly for Mowbray Medical and for other GP practices in northern Tasmania and for their needs when it comes to recruiting and retaining GPs so we can better service the needs of our community.”

For Dr Emamisadr the move from WA has been nothing short of positive, despite having to wait for her husband to join her due to COVID-19 restrictions.

“It’s so beautiful here, the weather reminds me of my home country (Iran) and the community has been so welcoming,” she said.

Improved play spaces for local students

Schools in northern Tasmania are enjoying enhanced facilities thanks to the support of the Federal Government’s Local Schools Community Fund.

Last year, schools across all sectors were asked to submit a request for funding to allow them to pursue a project that will make the biggest difference to their students’ education. Funding for small-scale extensions or classroom refurbishments, new computer facilities, mental health and counselling services, playground equipment, library resources, or sports facilities are all covered through this Fund.

Projects were selected by a regional committee with representation from each of the school sectors in Tasmania.

Ringarooma Primary School located in the beautiful North East was one of the schools selected as part of the program. With a student population of just under 100, their early childhood playground update has been incredibly popular.

“This truly is a welcoming, happy space for our students to enjoy and has brought much joy to the children this year,” said Ringarooma Principal Christine Edmunds.

Federal Member for Bass Bridget Archer recently visited the school where students excitedly showed off their new playground.

“I have been fortunate to visit Ringarooma Primary School a number of times in my role as Federal Member for Bass and always consider it an absolute privilege to meet with the students and staff,” Mrs Archer said.

“It was wonderful to witness the joy this outside equipment has brought to the students of the school, particularly after a hard year for so many with the impact of COVID.”

For Larmenier Primary School in St Leonards, the funding has allowed for the completion of an outdoor classroom extension, benefitting the current student population with the hope that up to 500 students per

year from other schools will be able to visit and run a “farm day” in the outdoor classroom facilities.

“The refurbished outdoor classroom allows children to learn about and be active in sustainability,” Larmenier Principal Jacqui Lawless said.

“It encourages hands-on innovative learning and allows children to work together with a sense of purpose and enjoyment.”

Punchbowl Primary School was able to complete the much-needed task of resurfacing their playground area court with assistance from the grant.

“This area has had a wonderful make over and has been resurfaced with artificial turf which makes it much safer,” Principal Elizabeth O’Donahue said.

“This area is now one of our most utilised play spaces and will become even more sought after when the oval becomes too damp to use.”

Dr Shadi Emamisadr with Bridget Archer.

Other LSCF projects completed so far include: Brooks High School – Refurbishment of gym including new weights equipment Riverside High School – Development of an indoor/outdoor activity area Queechy High School – Refurbishment of basketball courts South George Town Primary School – Refurbishment of playground.

Ringarooma Primary School students join Bridget Archer in celebrating their new playground equipment.

Upgraded surface area at Punchbowl Primary School.

TEDDY’S LEGACY THROUGH THE EYES OF HIS FAMILY

This year we mark the 75th anniversary of the end of World War Two.

It is fitting amid this anniversary that we look to the lives of the men and women who fought and died for our country.

The acts of valour from Edward “Teddy” Sheean aboard HMAS Armidale have received prominence recently with the Tasmanian finally being awarded the Victoria Cross. The honour recognises Teddy sacrificing his own life to save his shipmates during the Armidale’s sinking.

Teddy’s Victoria Cross is beginning the journey home to Australia.

While Teddy’s brave actions are part of our nation’s legacy, Teddy’s niece June shares some insight into Teddy’s personal story and the family he left behind which Briget has shared in the Federal Parliament:

Edward (Teddy) Sheean was born in Barrington Tasmania on 28th December 1923. He was one of 16 children, born to James and Mary Sheean.

Teddy and his brother Thomas (aka Mick) joined the Navy, while Bert, Fred. Bill and Albert (aka Janie) joined the Army. Two other brothers Allan and Jim, were equally hard working, staying behind to work the land.

His sisters were Florence Shea, Amy Gillam, Ivy Hayes, Nell Ivory.

Four more children, younger than Teddy did not survive.

Teddy’s photo sat on our mantel piece our entire lives – it never left. It was only taken down to dust, but was always put back in the same place.

It remained there until the day his sister Ivy Hayes passed away, when it went with her to her final resting place.

Ivy, along with her remaining brothers and sisters, was told Teddy would NEVER receive a VC so they just relished that he would have a submarine named in his honour.

And so on 1st May 1999 the HMAS Sheean was launched in Adelaide SA. Our mother, who was becoming quite frail by then, made it to the launching along with her only surviving brother Bert, and astounded everyone with her resilience at not only being able to make the trip, but addressed the crowd with a heart-rending speech, which not only stunned the gathering, but her family as well.

Ivy was a very humble lady and struggled with the title of “Commissioning Lady” because her younger brother Bert was by her side, but she was informed it had to be a woman to commission the submarine.

And so at the ripe old age of 90, with no notes, she delivered a speech straight from the heart, that is still spoken about in Naval circles.

When the HMAS Sheean made its inaugural trip into Devonport, Ivy stood on the banks of the Mersey River and watched it sail into port. She said she felt Teddy had finally come home.

Teddy’s mother was given an Oak Leaf when he was mentioned in despatches, a tiny medal that our mother held in her hand, saying it didn’t seem very much for someone who had given their life for their country.

The painting which now hangs in the Australian War Memorial in Canberra was too painful for his family to view every day, but depicted the heroic deed of this young man.

How would Teddy feel about all this? From what we know he would be extremely humbled, unlike his siblings, (if only they had been around). They will be having one huge celebration at a deed well done.

The fight began over 30 years ago to award Teddy a VC.

Almost three years later, on 23rd Feb 2001, the HMAS Sheean was commissioned in Fremantle WA, along with the Collins Class Submarine Dechaineux and once again, Teddy’s sister Ivy Hayes, now 90 years of age, managed the long flight to Perth WA.

Thank you, Garry Ivory and Guy Barnett, for your never give up attitude, your resilience when it appeared all hope was lost and your true meaning of the HMAS Sheean motto “FIGHT ON”. You have done yourselves and Teddy and his family proud.

MISSION ACCOMPLISHED.

Commemorating our heroes

There are just 12,500 World War Two veterans left across Australia.

Five northern Tasmanian WWII veterans joined in August for an afternoon tea to mark the 75th anniversary of the end of the war and to receive a special commemorative medallion.

Federal Member for Bass Bridget Archer said it was an honour to meet with veterans and hear their stories.

“I had the privilege of chatting with Max Christmas, Don Bayles, Marie

Brearley, Harry Reeve and Ronald Jones at the Launceston RSL presenting them with the commemorative medallions to mark their service and to say thank you for their significant contribution,” Mrs Archer said.

96-year-old Marie Brearley joined the Navy at the age of 18, leading the way at a time when women were only just starting to join the forces.

For former RAAF Leading Aircraftmen Ronald Jones his deployment to Darwin, after arriving as a third engineer at 3pm on February 19, 1942 took an abrupt, dramatic turnjust one hour after arriving, the Battle of Darwin began

Almost 80 years later, Ronald recalled being somewhat unfazed by the bombing stating to The Examiner that the attack “never bothered him.”

For Bridget, her favourite moment of the day came when presenting 100-yearold Harry Reeve with his medal.

“Leaning closer to hear him, Harry quite sheepishly whispered “(Minister for Veterans’ Affairs) Darren Chester has already sent me one of these, can I keep this one too?,” Bridget said.

“Given his service, I told him I certainly had no problem with him having two of the medallions!”

“We are forever in the debt of these veterans and all who served to fight for our country during the Second World War.”

June Hale’s mother Ivy with a photo of Teddy.

Pictured left: WWII veterans Max Christmas, Don Bayles, Marie Brearley, Harry Reeve and Ronald Jones with their commemorative medallions.

ADVENTURE CONTINUES FOR NORTHERN SUBURBS PROGRAM

An innovative adventure therapy program for northern Tasmania is set to expand.

The evidence-based program which has seen a positive impact on its participants during the pilot stage will continue thanks to the Federal Government’s Driving Social Inclusion through Sport and Physical Activity Grant.

Federal Member for Bass Bridget Archer said the aim of the Adventure Play program, run through Starting Point Neighbourhood House and the Northern Suburbs Community Centre, is to assist children overcome mental health and trauma issues by increasing positive healthy behaviours through physical activities.

““The program has had significant success so far and I am thrilled the funding from the government will allow the program to continue,” Mrs Archer said.

Denise Delphin, General Manager of the Northern Suburbs Community Centre said the program gives young people a chance to undertake a range of different physical activities.

“Children in the program are supported to undertake a range of physical activities while also having an opportunity to learn how trauma affects their behaviour and decision making,” Ms Delphin said.

The grant is one of 57 awarded across the country as part of a $19 million initiative designed to strengthen communities through participation.

COMMUNITY ORGANISATIONS AND VOLUNTEERS RECOGNISED THROUGH FUNDING SUPPORT

More than 20 Northern Tasmanian volunteer organisations are receiving support in recognition of their value to our community.

Volunteering in Australia has an estimated economic and social contribution of $290 billion.

Federal Member for Bass Bridget Archer said the Volunteer Grants program is designed to recognise the sacrifices volunteers make to help deliver vital services.

“Whether these services are provided to vulnerable members of our community or through assisting local sporting organisations, their work may be unpaid, but volunteers play a vital role in the structure and heart of our local economies,” Mrs Archer said.

“Their contribution is vital to ensuring that we continue to support families, provide employment pathways for young people and strengthen community resilience.

“It’s vital we acknowledge the important contribution of volunteers in our local communities in northern Tasmania.”

For Launceston’s oldest charity, the Launceston Benevolent Society, the funding has allowed for the purchase of a new tool cabinet and tools, and a BBQ.

“This new equipment has been of tremendous support to our organisation and our volunteers,” CEO Rodney Spinks said.

“Previously volunteers had to bring in their own tools, so to have what they need readily available means things can be done much quicker on the spot, greatly improving efficiency. The BBQ has helped lift

spirits through COVID with smaller but more regular get-togethers with our volunteers as a show of thanks.”

For the Launceston Surf Lifesaving Club, the grant will help volunteers save lives with the purchase of new oxygen resuscitation equipment

“The Launceston Surf Life Saving Club is entirely made up of volunteers who work tirelessly and commit thousands of hours each year to develop youth and senior members and patrol our waterways,” Mrs Archer said.

Chief Instructor of the Launceston Surf Lifesaving Club, Michelle Brook, said the funding for the equipment is appreciated after a tough year financially.

“It has been a difficult year for the club as a number of potential fundraising events were cancelled due to COVID-19,” Ms Brook said.

“The equipment will be used to train new and existing members in what has already been a busy year with the club undertaking 12 rescues and a number of vessel tows in Launceston and further down the Tamar.”

Coordinators and participants of the Adventure Play Program join Bridget Archer and Minister for Sport Richard Colbeck at the recent announcement of the extension of the popular program.

Chief Instructor of the Launceston Surf Lifesaving Club, Michelle Brook, with Bridget Archer demonstrating new oxygen resuscitation equipment.

AROUND THE REGION

LAUNCESTON CITY DEAL CONTINUES TO DELIVER

In just three years since the City Deal was signed, Launceston has undergone transformative changes, with the Annual Progress Report showcasing the latest results.

Federal Member for Bass Bridget Archer said the centrepiece of the Deal - relocating the University of Tasmania’s Launceston campus from Newnham to Inveresk - is coming to life with the first campus building, the Library and Student Experiences, now under construction.

“To date, 65 people have been working on the construction of Launceston’s largest-ever infrastructure project, including apprentices and trainees,” Mrs Archer said.

“Overall, 430 new jobs are expected to be created during the construction phase and when complete, 225 new academic and supporting jobs will be created in the new campus.

“These transformations will cater for 10,000 students by 2032 and will support an ultimate target of 16,000 students and staff engaged annually on the new campus.”

Tasmanian Minister for State Growth Michael Ferguson said there had also been promising results for the Tamar Estuary, a key component of the City Deal.

“A total of $140 million in funding is committed to improving Tamar’s health, and this will solve a long-term problem,” Mr Ferguson said.

“In the recently-released 2020 Tamar Estuary Report Card, the best water quality was seen in the estuary since measurement and reporting started, and all river zones scored a higher grade than the previous report in 2018.”

Bridget Archer said 2021 will see construction start on upgrading Launceston’s combined sewerage and stormwater system, establishing the northern suburbs community recreation hub and the Albert Hall renewal.

“I’m pleased to see the Aboriginal employment and supplier targets set in

the construction phase of major projects in Launceston, including the new Inveresk campus and the sewerage and stormwater system upgrades,” Mrs Archer said.

Mayor of the City of Launceston, Albert van Zetten, said that without the

Jumping for joy over improved Telecommunications

The Flinders Island community is benefitting from a major telecommunications upgrade.

A recent 3-day trip to the Island by Federal Member for Bass Bridget Archer culminated in the official launch of the $11 million Telecommunications Project, a combined funding effort between the Federal and State Governments, local Flinders Island Council and Telstra.

The upgrade, which the Federal Government committed almost $8 million under the Building Better Regions Fund, has delivered better coverage and faster data speeds to residents and visitors to Flinders and Cape Barren Islands.

“This funding has ensured these remote communities have access to the latest in communication technology,” Mrs Archer said.

“There are healthcare professionals, farmers, small business owners and tourism operators who will benefit greatly from this boosted connectivity and improved mobile and internet services.”

The upgrade was warmly celebrated by many in the community at the official launch at the Flinders Island Sports and RSL Club on September 25.

collaboration between the three tiers of government, many of these projects would simply not have been possible.

“There’s no question – the City Deal is delivering outstanding results for Launceston,” Cr van Zetten said.

Telstra Regional Manager Michael Patterson joins Federal Member for Bass Bridget Archer, Flinders Island Council Mayor Annie Revie and Tasmanian Minister for Science and Technology Michael Ferguson in celebrating the launch of the $11 million Telecommunications Project.

BOOSTING DEFENCE CAPABILITIES

Tucked away in a quiet Legana street is one of the world’s leading maritime simulation, training and consultancy companies, Pivot Maritime International.

Pivot has grown from strength-to-strength since it was formed in 1996. The proudly northern Tasmanian company secured a Defence Global Competitiveness Grant this year, providing the business with the opportunity to support Australia’s defence industry while also increasing local exports.

Federal Member for Bass Bridget Archer notes the company is the only manufacturer of maritime simulators in Australia and is used in the defence, commercial shipping and recreational boating sectors.

“The grant will enable the Pivot team to develop a world first with their self-described Counter-Sim, creating a virtual 360 degrees visual environment of a ship and port using real navigation equipment all within a standard container,” Mrs Archer said.

Dr Jeffrey Hawkins, Managing Director of Pivot Maritime International, said that the timing of the grant is significant to the company as it prepares to come out of COVID-19 stronger.

“We’re ready to take advantage of export opportunities where we have a strong interest from the navies and Defence Primes in the US, Indonesia and New Zealand,” Dr Hawkins said.

City of Launceston Mayor Albert van Zetten, Tasmanian Minister for State Growth Michael Ferguson and Federal Member for Bass Bridget Archer announcing the 2020 Launceston City Deal Progress Report.

Bridget Archer taking instruction from Dr Jeffrey Hawkins on one of Pivot’s maritime simulators.

POPULAR COMMUNITY HUB CONTINUES TO GROW

The Ringarooma Community Hub is an integral part of the local region. After opening towards the end of 2018, the Hub provides a chance for friends and locals to catch up, have a drink, or play a game of pool.

Federal Member for Bass Bridget Archer said her most recent visit in August drove home just how important the Hub is to locals.

“I had a great chat with Hub volunteer Marcus about how COVID-19 has impacted the Hub and the community at large,” Mrs Archer said.

“The loss of their popular pool social calendar was particularly difficult. It’s more than just a game, providing a chance for social interaction in areas where many can feel isolated.

“Like me, I know the community was thrilled to hear the restrictions on playing pool were lifted at the end of August.”

The Hub is run entirely by volunteers with profits being used to benefit the Ringarooma community.

During her latest visit, Bridget was able to see the impact of the Federal Government’s most recent Stronger Communities Program funding, providing the Hub with the opportunity to lay new floor in the kitchen and purchase a BBQ.

Marcus Haywood has told the Bass Bulletin the Hub is now open for meals. Please visit the Facebook page: facebook.com/ringaroomacommunityhub for more information.

EAST BEACH MAKEOVER

Locals and tourists alike will benefit from the George Town Council’s plan for major works to the East Beach Picnic Area.

Using funds secured under the Commonwealth Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Grant Programs, the Council is set to undertake a major redevelopment of the area with proposed changes including:

• Designated disabled parking bay

• 8x8m picnic shelter with wind protection walls, two accessible picnic tables and an accessible electric BBQ

• 5x5m picnic shelter with wind protection walls and accessible picnic table

Funding Delivered Election Commitments

• New boardwalk providing all abilities access to the beach

Federal Member for Bass and George Town local Bridget Archer said the upgrade is a boost the region.

“I am thrilled the plans include making this beautiful area accessible for all in the community to enjoy and look forward to taking my family there when it’s finished,” Mrs Archer said.

Fight for Recreation Trail Secured

Northern Tasmania’s growing reputation as an adventure tourism destination has been enhanced with new certainty for the North-East Rail Trail.

Federal Member for Bass Bridget Archer has secured the $1.47 million in funding originally promised back in 2015, and says the funding has the support of many in the community.

“This is a project I committed to during the 2019 election campaign,” Mrs Archer said.

“I understood the community frustration that arose when the original agreement lapsed because the Dorset Council needed more time.

“As a former regional councillor and mayor, I appreciate there can be delays, so I committed to working through them with Dorset Council and other stakeholders.”

Mrs Archer said the commitment supports job creation and tourism, which is “more important than ever, particularly as regions look to recover from the economic challenges of COVID.”

“Conversations continue about how the revised funding should be spent, but it’s important to make clear that both the original and

most recent plans for this particular funding did not involve running a train,” Mrs Archer said.

“Rather, the original train route is being reimagined to take advantage of the growing demand for cycle tourism – catering for local, national and international visitors – an idea supported by tourism industry stakeholders.”

For updated information on the progress of the project, please visit the Dorset Council website www.dorset.tas.gov.au

Delivered

o $3.6m – Flinders Island runway upgrades

o $70m – Blue Economy Cooperative Research Centre

o $218k – YMCA Project Y (delivered over next two years)

Funding Delivered

o $1.47m - North East Recreation Trail

o $250k – George Town FC Lighting and Kitchen upgrades

o $150k – Bridport FC Lighting upgrades

o $250k – Bridgenorth FC lighting upgrades

o $250k – Windsor Park surface and lighting upgrades

Underway

o $4.4m – George Town Mountain Bike Trails

o $2.45m – George Town Regent Square redevelopment

o $675k – Churchill Park Fields Development

o $1m - Reimagining the Gorge Project

Progressing

o $3m - Beauty Point Master Plan

o $2m – Gravelly Beach Master Plan

o $15m – Northern Recreation Hub

o $10m – Albert Hall Renewal

o $3m – Flinders Island Safe Harbour Project

Grant funding delivered

$123k – Flinders Island Show Society

$200k – Local Schools fund (various schools and projects)

$150k – Stronger Communities Round 5

$136k – Communities Environment Program

$62k – Volunteer Grants 2020

Bridget Archer with Ringarooma Hub Committee Members Marcus Haywood, Brendon Thompson and Linda Borrell and Hub Association Member Kimberley Jeapes.

ON THE ROAD HEALTH SUPPORT

“From little things, big things grow.”

This quote was aptly used by Tasmania’s Royal Flying Doctor Service of Australia CEO John Kirwan to describe the idea to bring mobile health services to regional and remote communities in Tasmania.

The vision with passionate support and campaigning from David Annear of  Rotary Tasmania transformed two old Metro buses, donated from the Tasmanian Government, into mobile health units supported by $100,000 in Federal Government funding.

Federal Member for Bass

Bridget Archer said the mobile health hub will travel the state into areas where health services are not easily accessible.

“While the buses aim to improve health outcomes for those living with chronic health conditions, the unit will also offer youth mental health services,” she said.

Providing access to mental health services for young Tasmanians, particularly those living in remote areas of our state, is critical.

My Community

WAVERLEY by Danielle Watkins

“The buses will enable people to access assessment support and early interventions in a safe, friendly environment whilst also reducing stigma associated with accessing of mental health services.”

Since the official launch in July, the buses have spent time in Fingal and Deloraine with plans to be in north east Tasmania towards the end of the year. To keep up to date on where the bus will be, please join the group RFDS Tasmania – Our Caring Community on Facebook.

Nathan and I purchased our first home together in 2018, in Waverley. A little over a month later our daughter Maddie was born.

The house was cheap, especially to us coming from NSW. We had originally planned to renovate and live in the property for a few years then rent it out. That plan didn’t last long. We realised we loved the area so much we didn’t want to leave.

Waverley is close to the city, has a lovely view back over the city and Tamar, is quiet and surrounded by nature. It has a beautiful lake that we could see our daughter growing up playing in.

During the beginning of COVID we started the Waverley Community Co-op in response to the great need we saw in the community. Something that started so small, with a box of onions has grown into a huge part of the community. Waverley has no community space; no halls or centres. It lacked a space that people felt safe, included, heard and needed. The co-op fulfilled a connection to essential organisations and services, brought people together to share and started to grow a life of its own.

Out of the generosity of the community grew Tasmania’s first Town Team, groWaverley. The team is made of residents,

The 2020 Recycling Project

By the Leadership Board of Brooks High School

organisations and ndividuals who want to support the Waverley community to connect, collaborate and cultivate.

Supporting and enriching ideas of the community, the team has assisted to run events and projects in Waverley.

It has also championed the voices of the community to be heard loud and wide. While the dream is a weatherproof building and community space, the group volunteers their time to develop our community with what we have. We are proud to be part of such a beautiful and sharing community.

Love where you live in northern Tasmania? We will feature another My Community in the next edition of the Bass Bulletin. Send your story to bridget.archer.mp@aph.gov.au

In times like this, when the world and its people are consumed in their various occupations, often the devastating headlines that scream and beg people to listen to news about Climate Change, are never seen. However, the current generation of people, particularly the Brooks High School students, have decided that it is time to focus on this specific issue and come up with solutions on how to better our environment. The main goal is to implement recycling bins around the school and analyse the way it benefits, not only the environment but also every student’s education. This project is important to everyone who attends Brooks High School as it allows a freedom in making their own crucial decisions.

Brooks High School has always resiliently adapted to many changes, with every student and staff member taking it as an opportunity to improve. This year, students have been interested in creating a sustainable and environmentally friendly school by implementing recycling bins in every classroom. Usually, paper is thrown in the rubbish bins where it is taken to different garbage disposals instead of being recycled. However, the Recycling Project allows the school to invest in bins that students and staff members can use to recycle different forms of paper instead of wasting it. This benefits the environment by saving energy and contributing to reducing the air and water pollution. Additionally, the Recycling Project leaves an impact on the northern Tasmanian community by influencing the community to participate in these activities. One school investing in recycling bins is significant enough to leave a legacy behind for other people to join in as well. Students who learn about the importance of recycling implement these ideas outside of school and use it within the community. Additionally, having a large community that contributes to keeping a clean environment will leave a long-term effect on northern

Tasmania by reducing our waste and maintaining the climate change crisis. Overall, placing recycling bins around the school is a step to saving our Earth, while also educating every student!

are required to learn about the dangers of living a non-sustainable life and how to unlearn these toxic behaviours. The unit describes different sustainable and ethical practices to implement in their lifestyle that benefits the environment. While this experience is highly educational, it must also be applied to real life. By placing recycling bins, students have the opportunity to reach their full potential and use their education for the better. Additionally, posters and digital copies of what can be recycled will be placed around the school for students to refer back to when placing their rubbish in the bins. Every student is dedicated and prepared to keep the environment clean. This project allows everyone to unite together and commit themselves in maintaining their waste and continuing to educate themselves and the community!

Our school has been committed to improving our waste management for a very long time. The school curriculum has allowed students to further develop their understanding on Climate Change and the importance of recycling by studying this topic in their Humanities class. Climate change is an important unit discussed during Grade nine and ten. Students

The Recycling Project is a step to creating a clean and safe environment for the northern Tasmanian and Brooks High School community. Implementing recycling bins around the school for every student to use benefits the Earth, while creating an educational experience for everyone to learn from. The Recycling Project leaves a strong legacy that will impact the school as well as the community.

Bridget Archer presenting a cheque to members of the Brooks High School Leadership Board towards recycling bins to in support of their 2020 Recycling Project.

Bridget Archer and CEO of RFDS Tasmania John Kirwan in one of the new mobile health hub buses.

Bridget Archer with Danielle, daughter Maddie and husband Nathan outside the Waverley Community Co-Op.

CRICKET CLUB CALL FOR COMMUNITY SUPPORT

Founded in 2018 the Launceston Nepali Cricket Club has strong ties to our local community and has achieved its goal of playing A-grade cricket this upcoming season.

However, the club needs financial support from our community to continue to grow. After meeting with Federal Member for Bass Bridget Archer who has donated to the club, Bridget is putting the call out to our community to show their support.

“I am proud to support the club and ask that the local business community also consider donation or sponsorship opportunities to assist this wonderful multicultural club,” Mrs Archer said.

If you would like to find out more, please email lncc.cricket@gmail.com or contact the office of Bridget Archer on 6334 7033.

Keeping connected during COVID-19

Sporting clubs across northern Tasmania have worked to ensure they stay connected throughout this very different year.

Bridgenorth Football Club took to the airwaves in an innovative approach to keep its strong community in contact.

Understanding that sport is more than just a game, club members, including club vice-President Rob Beams, came up with the idea of creating a weekly podcast, so Parrot Park Radio was born.

Just a few episodes in, and with the help of Federal Member for Bass Bridget Archer, the club was able to secure a radio interview with Prime Minister Scott Morrison.

Having met with the football club during the 2019 election and attending that year’s NTFA grand final between Bridgenorth and Hillwood, the Prime Minister has a strong connection with the Parrots.

“When he was on [the show] we sort of looked at one another, the hosts, and thought ‘wow, is this real? We’ve actually got the PM of Australia on our little community radio show’,” Mr Beams told the Mercury this year.

Federal Member for Bass Bridget Archer also featured on the same episode,

“It’s an honour to be on the show which has provided some muchneeded light-hearted relief during a tough year,” Mrs Archer said.

North Esk Rowing Club

For the North Esk Rowing Club, COVID-19 restrictions lead to the club closing its doors from March until June earlier this year, the longest period in the Club’s 121-year history.

Secretary of the club, Georgina Dalgleish said the silver lining of COVID-19 has been the reminder of the value of community.

“The joy of community sport is to come together and spend time being healthy in body and mind,” Ms Dalgleish said.

“The North Esk Rowing Club is like a family, we all fundraise together and support each other and help is never far away if you need it.”

Like so many community organisations this year, the club has been unable to hold their usual fundraisers, however securing a grant under the Federal Government’s Stronger Communities Program has provided vital assistance.

The club used the money to purchased PFDs (life jackets), inflatable jackets for the Club’s coaches, boat lights and oars.

“All PFDs and inflatable jackets need to comply to the new Australian standards from December 2020. To replace all of these would have been a cost that would have been almost impossible after not being able to fundraise this year.” Ms Dalgleish said.

Federal Member for Bass Bridget Archer said the Stronger Communities Program focuses on investing in community organisations like the North Esk Rowing Club, providing assistance to ensure they can continue to succeed into the future.

“This type of investment brings our communities together by strengthening social connections, building community participation and delivering a brighter and more vibrant future for regional communities,” Mrs Archer said.

For the volunteer coaches and members of the North Esk Rowing Club, they are looking towards a brighter and better 2021.

“Our members are so happy to be back in the club post lockdown. They have accepted the restrictions with grace and are thrilled to be back to the sport we love,” Ms Dalgelish said.

Members of the Launceston Nepali Cricket Club with Bridget Archer MP.