Bass Bulletin - April 2022

Bridget Archer MP joins Launceston RSL sub-branch secretary Peter Williams (left), President Graeme Barnett (right) and volunteers to celebrate funding secured to upgrade facilities for their Wellington Street premises. Full story page 3. Picture credit: Paul Scambler (The Examiner)

A gem of an organisation!

Q. What rocks and has over 170 members?

A. The Lapidary Club of Northern Tasmania!

Formed in 1966 The Lapidary Club of Northern Tasmania is a not-for-profit organisation that provides an environment where people with an interest in fossicking for gemstones, rocks, fossils and jewellery making can get together and share their interests and skills with each other.

Federal Member for Bass Bridget Archer recently visited the Club to meet with its members and to celebrate their recent success in securing a grant under the Stronger Communities Program.

“It was heart-warming to see the strength, inclusion and connectedness of members as they talked about their shared vision for the club,” Mrs Archer said.

If you have an interest in all things gemstones, rocks and fossils, consider joining the Club! Contact them through their Facebook page Lapidary Club of Northern Tasmania Inc.

Support for Northbourne Park

Residents in the north-east have received further support to stay in their communities and age well with the expansion of the Northbourne Park Retirement Village, currently under development.

With land sold by the daughters of north-east stalwarts the late Bert and Peggy Farquhar to expand the village, the project was able to get off the ground thanks to a combined $2.86 million in funding from both the State and Federal Governments.

Federal Member for Bass Bridget Archer said the project, funded through the Government’s Building Better Regions Program, epitomises the very idea of building a better region.

“A facility of this size not only creates local jobs and increases economic development in the region, it also provides locals with the option to age well in the community which they love,” Mrs Archer said.

“The expansion of the village to meet demand is a testament to the wonderful board of the Northbourne Park Association and its volunteers who have worked so hard to bring their vision to life.”

INSIDE

Treasurer visit page 3

Head to Health page 4

Budget 2022 pages 6-7

As part of the celebrations, Northbourne Park Association chairman Robin Thompson awarded a posthumous Life Membership to Alf Dent and unveiled a special framed photo of Alf, acknowledging his many years of dedication and commitment to Northbourne Park Association.

Fittingly, part of the new expansion will be named Peggy’s Parade in memory of Peggy Farquhar.

Who to Contact

UTAS library page 8

Albert Hall redevelopment page 9

Junior soccer stars page 11

Find me on Facebook: @BridgetArcherMP

Launceston College visit

Grade 11 and 12 Legal Studies students from Launceston College recently invited Bridget Archer MP to answer a range of questions from what inspired Ms Archer to enter politics, a typical day in the community and in Canberra and the highs and lows of being a parliamentarian. Photo credit Heath De Haan

Bridget Archer MP with Launceston Councillor Hugh McKenzie and members of The Lapidary Club of Northern Tasmania.

Bridget Archer MP joins Premier Peter Gutwein, Northbourne Park Association chairman Robin Thompson and board members to celebrate the expansion project.

continued from front page

In recent years, many of the upstairs facilities of their Wellington St location have fallen into a state of disrepair and with the demand on services increasing, the subbranch has been seeking funding to upgrade facilities.

After touring the RSL’s premises and seeing firsthand the need for extensive renovations, Federal Member for Bass Bridget Archer secured the muchneeded funds for the RSL after months of advocacy in Canberra.

“The Launceston RSL, like its sister organisations across the country, provides an invaluable service to our return service people and their families,” Mrs Archer said.

“They provide an incredible amount of support to veterans through their in-house advocates and welfare team and is entirely community-focussed, providing support for local veterans’ associations, community groups, sporting clubs and training organisations.

“By upgrading the facilities in Launceston, the sub-

branch will be able to provide increased capacity and capability to enable their volunteers to continue to provide vital services and ongoing support to veterans and their families,” said Mrs Archer.

hiring out of facilities to the general public.”

Club Secretary Peter Williams worked tirelessly on the project for more than 12 months and says the funding will be a game changer for the sub-branch.

“We have Mates 4 Mates on board now in addition to the services provided by our existing Advocates and Welfare Team and when the upgrades are complete, we can provide veterans and volunteers with a suitable environment, which will go a long way to helping veterans in need. This is first of many changes in Ex-Service Organisation service delivery to veterans across Tasmania.”

The investment was announced as part of the Federal Government’s Veteran Wellbeing Centres funding.

“The upgraded facilities will also increase the financial viability of the Launceston RSL sub-branch by providing an increased income stream through

Part of the renovations include new carpet and fresh paint funded through the Federal Government’s Stronger Communities Program. Renovations are expected to be completed later this year.

Treasurer visits northern Tasmania

Treasurer Josh Frydenberg recently returned to Launceston for a business breakfast hosted by Federal Member for Bass Bridget Archer and the Launceston Chamber of Commerce.

Following the breakfast, the Treasurer joined Bridget for a visit to Josef Chromy’s with the Prime Minister, before meeting with members of the northern Tasmanian branch of the Association of Independent Retirees and visiting Tamar Valley Roses and Turner Stillhouse in the West Tamar Region.

The Launceston RSL sub-branch has been at the forefront of assisting local Veterans for over 100 years.

Business Breakfast Photo credit: Michael Preece

“Bridget has worked tirelessly in this community. She has been assisting small business and also has worked tirelessly helping with employment. Bridget continues to fight and work for us.”

Cathryn Cocker, Design Inn

An important step to better mental health

The stats can be startling; around one in five people in our community will experience mental health challenges in any given year. Accessibility to services across a number of fronts including location, availability, open hours and cost is a common problem facing communities across the country.

A new adult mental health service located in Launceston and offering free, walk-in services is helping to bridge this gap.

The innovative Head to Health centre opened its interim site at 93 Paterson Street with its purpose-built permanent location in Canning Street on track to open later this year.

Federal Member for Bass Bridget Archer welcomed the opening of the new service, which is one of eight initial Head to Health centres funded by the Australian Government – one in each state and territory.

“After fighting to ensure our region would see Head to Health established right here in Launceston, I’m thrilled to see this innovative new service open its doors,” Mrs Archer said.

“I encourage adults in our community who may be in need of support, especially at a time like the one we’re all living through, to take up the opportunity to seek out this welcoming, accessible service.”

Offering a combination of peer-led recovery and clinical support to provide a warm, welcoming and highquality experience, Peer Concierges play a key role in the service delivery, with concierges including Tricia Ashton drawing upon her personal mental health journey to welcome people to the centre.

“I feel there’s huge value in having people with lived experience in mental health services. It helps to reduce stigma and provides hope, because peer workers can say to people, ‘I’ve come through this, and you can too’,” Tricia said.

Tricia will share the Peer Concierge role with Naomi Simpson-Kitt, who agrees the value of a permanent, ongoing peer role within a mental health service isn’t just a ‘bonus’ — it’s integral to the provision of effective, person-centred care.

“The advertisement for this role drew my attention because I have lived experience of trauma and mental illness, and also have had experience caring for someone with mental illness,” Naomi said. “I think having nonclinical staff with lived experience as a complement to clinical staff is critical when it comes to providing holistic, person-centred care.”

An initial range of services will be available from the interim site on Paterson Street, with a full suite to be offered when the permanent site opens.

To access Launceston Head to Health, people can:

• visit the centre at 93 Paterson Street between 9am and 5pm Monday to Friday

• call 1800 424 578

• email headtohealth.launceston@stride.com.au.

There will be no charge, and appointments won’t be needed. More information is available at www.stride. com.au/who-we-help/adults/head-to-health

From little things, big things grow

At a community BBQ held at the Northern Suburbs Community Centre, Federal Member for Bass struck up a conversation with Kimberley Eaton from Golden Brown Tasmania who launched a community composting project towards the end of last year.

Collecting used coffee grounds from local businesses, Kimberley and Golden Brown recycle them back into soils around Launceston, including at community organisations like Northern Suburbs Community Centre Inc and The St Leonards Hazara Community Garden.

“Launceston really punches above its weight in terms of the sheer number of amazing cafés and restaurants serving good coffee,” Mrs Archer said.

“Our city is fortunate to have enterprising people like Kimberley who identified the amount of waste from used coffee grounds and took the initiative to start a program that reduces waste and benefits the environment.”

“Coffee grounds are full of nitrogen which makes it a fantastic addition to compost,” said Ms Eaton.

Golden Brown Tasmania has diverted over 6,000 kilos of used coffee grounds from landfill, thanks to a number of fantastic businesses who have signed up to be part of the project: Mad Apple, Stillwater Restaurant, Sweetbrew, Alps & Amici, Flick the Bean Coffee, Off Center and Princes Square Bar.

If you run a cafe and would love to see your coffee grounds diverted from landfill to compost, or want to purchase coffee grounds for your own compost email goldenbrown.tas@gmail.com

Kimberley Brown and Bridget Archer MP discussing all things compost at the Northern Suburbs Community Garden.

“Bridget is someone who’s genuine, she’s real and she’s raw…and that’s what we want young people to look up to.”

Will Smith, Director, JCP Youth

Above: Bridget Archer MP receiving a tour of the interim site with Nicci Dickson from Stride, the agency running the local operation. Below: Launceston’s Head to Health team at the January opening.

Storytelling through podcasts

Have the perfect idea for a podcast but don’t have the equipment or technical know-how? Become a member of City Park Radio and start recording in their podcast studio while learning essential production skills thanks to a few expert volunteers!

Federal Member for Bass Bridget Archer recently dropped by the podcast studio, and caught up with volunteers Chris Ball, Nick Groer and Royce Pentaghast to discuss all things podcast, and to check out the podcasting equipment purchased by City Park Radio through the Federal Government’s Stronger Communities Program.

“City Park Radio runs on the dedication of a passionate team of volunteers of all ages, providing an essential community service to northern Tasmanians,” Mrs Archer said.

“The podcasting equipment is more than just hardware, it provides an opportunity for anybody in our region to tell a story or learn new technical skills.”

During her visit, Bridget watched former ABC Presenter Jodie Lowe put the finishing touches to her series ‘See Me – Stories of Ability and Inspiration.’

A collaboration between City Park Radio and Jodie, the podcast series aims to share positive stories and achievements of people living with disability. The series will be available later this year at cityparkradio.com/our-podcast/

The road to helping veterans

After losing his mate to suicide, Australian Defence Force Army Reserve veteran and northern Tasmanian Oliver Breeze wanted to take action to assist defence force veterans struggling with mental health challenges.

Oliver, who has served in the ADF for 26 years and recently commissioned from SGT to Lieutenant, served in East Timor in Operation Astute in 2007, returning to the region for some charity work with other volunteers for Operation Rescue Assist in 2011.

“I returned from operations with photos, medals and locally made souvenirs from my time in East Timor, some veterans return home with thoughts, emotions and horrific memories of the atrocities of war, mates they have lost- images that can’t be unseen and this changes their lives forever,” Oliver said.

Determined to do what he could to help veterans in need, Oliver banded together a group of six current serving ADF Ares (Army Reserve) members to form The Long Patrol who walked 96km - the length of the Kokoda Trail - in 2021 to raise money for Soldier On, a not-for-profit supporting more than 5,000 veterans and their families.

After walking from Launceston to Devonport in 2021, this year’s trek involved walking from Prospect Fire Station through to Deloraine and back into Launceston, finishing up at the Paterson St Barracks after 20 hours.

Of the 25 walkers and support crew on The Long Patrol for 2022, all know an ADF member that has committed suicide.

“The Long Patrol has veterans from Iraq, East Timor, Afghanistan, Solomon Islands, the recent Bush Fire Assist and Flood Operation and Op Resolute,” said Oliver.

“The team walk for 20 hours which requires some real mental toughness and determination. Our team being predominately serving or ex-serving Defence members have resilience and their moral compasses is

very well calibrated, so we just keep walking to get the mission accomplished.

“It’s a great annual event and we get bigger and achieve more each year.

“We are very fortunate to have a great support crew of medical professionals to assist us along the way that also give up their long weekend.”

After signing up to walk the 96km over March, Federal Member for Bass Bridget Archer had originally planned to join Oliver and The Long Patrol team for their last leg of the walk but missed the opportunity after testing positive to COVID-19 just a few days prior.

“I was tremendously disappointed to miss the walk but kept up my walking efforts at home throughout the month and commend Oliver and his team for their fundraising efforts and for raising awareness about veterans and mental health,” Mrs Archer said.

“Nobody should ever battle these struggles alone.”

For more information and to donate visit https:// www.marchonchallenge.org.au/fundraisers/ TheLongPatrol/virtual

Clockwise from back (L-R): Nick Groer, Chris Ball, Bridget Archer, Jodie Lowe.

“Bridget has been a fantastic supporter of Launceston Legacy, always ready to listen and meet with members. We have appreciated her advocacy for our organisation.”

Terry Byrne, President, Launceston Legacy

A glimpse into The Long Patrol’s 2022 96 kilometre walk.

STRONG ECONOMY. STRONGER FUTURE.

The last two years have been tough for our country. But Australia’s economic recovery leads the world. The 2022 Budget delivers: Cost of living relief now; a long-term economic plan that creates more jobs; record investments in essential services; stronger defence and national security. Our plan will deliver a strong economy and a stronger future.

Australia’s Economic Recovery

Australia’s economic recovery leads the world – stronger than the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, France, Germany, Italy and Japan.

Unemployment is at 4%, the equal lowest in 48 years. This Budget also delivers the largest improvement to the Budget bottom line in over 70 years.

Australia is one of nine countries to hold a AAA credit rating from the three leading credit agencies. Our economic plan is working.

Long Term Plan for Jobs

By backing small businesses, and investing in skills, manufacturing, infrastructure, energy, and regional development, we will strengthen our economy and create more jobs.

To encourage small businesses, a 20% bonus deduction will be provided for expenditure on training new and existing staff.

New incentives will encourage more apprentices. Our $120 billion investment in nation building infrastructure will support around 100,000 jobs.

Unprecedented regional investment will unlock new economic frontiers for agriculture, infrastructure, and energy.

Cost of Living Relief

Our temporary, targeted and responsible package will ease cost of living pressures.

For six months, fuel excise will be cut in half, saving Australians 22 cents a litre.

A one-off $420 Cost of Living Tax Offset will help 10 million workers. (This means people receiving the low-and-middle income tax offset will get up to $1,500 this year).

A one-off $250 Cost of Living Payment will be delivered to six million Australians, including pensioners, carers, veterans, job seekers, eligible self-funded retirees, and concession card holders.

Small Business

Our Government has reduced tax rates for small business from 30% to 25% (the lowest level in over 50 years) and delivered record investment incentives – including the expanded instant asset write-off.

We are further encouraging small businesses that invest in new technology.

To encourage small businesses, a 20% bonus deduction will be provided for expenditure on training staff, or digital technologies (like cloud computing, eInvoicing, cyber security, and web design) – on expenditure up to $100,000 per year.

STRONG ECONOMY. STRONGER FUTURE.

BUDGET 2022

STRONG ECONOMY. STRONGER FUTURE.

Investment in Skills and Education

Around 220,000 Australians are now in a trade apprenticeship – the highest number on record. To encourage more apprentices, from 1 July 2022 we are providing $5,000 payments to new apprentices and up to $15,000 in wage subsidies for employers.

More than 30,000 new places were created at universities last year.

Since coming to Government in 2013, education funding has increased by more than 60%.

Stronger Defence and Security

We are significantly increasing investment in defence, after the previous Labor Government allowed defence spending to fall to its lowest level since 1938.

The Government has delivered new capability, like new Joint Strike Fighter aircraft, Air Warfare Destroyers, and combat vehicles.

We are expanding the size of our Defence Force by 30%, to over 100,000 personnel.

The Government is making Australia’s biggest ever investment in cyber preparedness – including 1,900 more data analysts, computer programmers, and software engineers.

Building Infrastructure and Regions

Our $120 billion infrastructure pipeline has already completed over 35,000 projects.

Nation building projects like the Melbourne to Brisbane Inland Rail, the new Western Sydney International Airport and Snowy 2.0 are well underway. This Budget includes new commitments for road and rail projects across Australia.

Unprecedented regional investment will fast track development across four areas of national significance – unlocking new economic frontiers for agriculture, infrastructure and energy.

Better Health and Essential Services

Our Government has delivered record funding for schools, hospitals, Medicare, mental health, aged care, women’s safety and disability support.

Federal funding for hospitals has nearly doubled – from $13.3 billion (in 2012-13) to $25 billion (2021-22). More than 2,800 new or amended medicines have been listed on the PBS. Since we have come to Government, funding for aged care has doubled.

Our substantial women’s health package includes stillbirth and miscarriage support, the establishment of new endometriosis clinics, and greater access to breast and cervical cancer screenings.

Supporting Home Ownership

Over the last year, 160,000 Australians purchased their first home.

HomeBuilder, the First Home Super Saver Scheme and the Home Guarantee Scheme have helped make the dream of home ownership a reality.

The Home Guarantee Scheme will now be more than doubled to 50,000 places per year. This helps:

• Single parents buy a home with a deposit as low as 2%.

• First home buyers buy a home with a deposit as low as 5%.

Environment

Australia is on track to achieve Net Zero emissions by 2050 through technology, not taxes.

Australia has the highest uptake of rooftop solar in the world. We are investing in clean hydrogen, carbon capture and storage, batteries and large-scale solar.

We are reducing waste through our Recycling Modernisation Fund – saving 10 million tonnes of recyclables from landfill every year by 2030.

We are also expanding the Indigenous Rangers Program, investing an extra $1 billion in marine science to protect the Great Barrier Reef, and restoring the habitat of threatened species.

Read

Authorised by B. Archer, Liberal, 100 St John Street, Launceston TAS 7250.

Celebrating 30 years of love for the land

In 1992, a small group of volunteers came together to form the West Tamar Landcare Group. 30 years later, the group celebrated its milestone birthday with an afternoon event marking key projects and commemorating volunteers who have since passed on with a tree planting at the Exeter Community Reserve.

Current President of the West Tamar Landcare

Group Peter Voller said the group is built on a common interest: the love of the land.

“West Tamar Landcare is one of so many small community groups across Australia volunteering and persisting as part of the fabric of our community,” Mr Voller said.

“We work on projects that improve habitats and landscapes at the local level, pulling weeds, protecting special areas, keeping waterways clean and working with incredible partners bringing community and funders together.”

Mr Voller said the group’s greatest achievement has been reducing erosion along the banks of the Supply River where they remove weeds, stabilise banks and revegetate thanks to a Commonwealth Government grant.

“That project has led to a 30-year commitment to landcare in the West Tamar, building trails, controlling weeds and pests and planting habitat for threatened species,” he said.

As part of the anniversary celebrations, West

Tamar Council Mayor Christina Holmdahl unveiled a sculpture of the Eastern Barred Bandicoot, a threatened species which the group has helped to protect through its successful cat management project. Honorary Life Memberships were also bestowed on long-term volunteers Jayne Shapter, Peter Broad and Helen and Ross Eastburn.

Milestone acheived as UTAS Library opens

With more than 300 workers involved in the build over 20 months, and more than 30,000 books moved from its former Newnham campus, the new Library and Student Services building at Inveresk is officially open.

Designed by John Wardle Architects, the build was undertaken by a local workforce from Vos Construction, with over 150 individuals including staff, students and members of the wider community involved in the co-design process, providing invaluable feedback on the vision for the building design and functionality. First Nations voices were also an integral part of the consultation process to embed indigenous experience and knowledge within the spaces.

Federal Member for Bass Bridget Archer said the building, the first significant milestone in the $300 million relocation of the campus, is a landmark achievement for Launceston and the surrounding regions.

“Moving UTAS’s northern campus to a central, accessible location in Launceston will have great benefits for students and will create a vibrant hub in the heart of the city,” Mrs Archer said.

“We know students in regional communities like ours face barriers to completing higher education and building world-class facilities like this in northern Tasmania will go a long way to helping remove those barriers.”

UTAS Vice-Chancellor Professor Rufus Black said the new facilities were open to the local community,

not just University staff and students.

“This is about access to the Library and cultural facilities for the whole community. Anybody who wants to access it, it’s here for you,” Professor Black said.

Artwork is an essential component of the new Library, with art commissioned for the building and collections showcased to inspire the questions: what are all the different ways of knowing around us? What can nature, our surrounding lands and waterways teach us? How can we ask better questions, listen deeply, and be open to learning in more ways?

The artwork throughout the building includes feature carpets from palawa emerging artist Caleb Nichols-Mansell, a suspended sculpture, cultural objects from the Riawunna Collection, ceramics from the Fine Art Collection, video artwork and immersive artwork from artists such as Tony Ruffels, Les Blakebrough AM, Jeff Mincham AM and Gwyn Hanssen Pigott AM.

The Federal Government has committed $130 million to the UTAS relocation project under the $536 million Launceston City Deal.

Two additional buildings, the River’s Edge Building and Willis St Building, are currently under construction and due for completion in late 2022 and 2023, respectively.

(L-R) Honorary Life Membership recipients Jayne Shapter, Peter Broad and Helen and Ross Eastburn.

Bridget Archer MP joins Delia Summers Tasmanian Minister for Education Roger Jaensch, City of Launceston Mayor Albert van Zetten and UTAS Vice Chancellor Rufus Black to officially open the new Library and Student Services.

“Bridget’s great. She’s always been there to help us. She’s always just a phone call away.”

Angelina

Hemphill, Owner, Tin Timbers Café & Art Gallery, Branxholm

A sculpture of the Eastern Barred Bandicoot.

Albert Hall is set for a major redevelopment

Built in 1891, Launceston’s iconic Albert Hall is set for a major redevelopment which captures the original vision for the building, integrating the Hall with City Park to engage visitors meaningfully.

The project received $10 million through the Federal Government’s Launceston City Deal with an additional $1 million recently secured through the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure program.

Federal Member for Bass Bridget Archer MP said the Albert Hall project will redefine one of Launceston’s most significant heritage buildings as a cultural destination for Northern Tasmanians.

“The redevelopment will enhance the much-loved qualities of one of Launceston’s most iconic buildings by integrating Albert Hall into the City Park and ensuring it is fit for purpose as a contemporary meeting and exhibition space,” Mrs Archer said.

City of Launceston Acting Mayor Danny Gibson said one of the major objectives of the project will be to provide greater connectivity and interaction between the Hall and another of Launceston’s most popular attractions, City Park.

“Planning for this project has drawn heavily on feedback from key user groups and the local community,” Cr Gibson said.

“The Council met with a range of stakeholders last year to assist with planning for the project and

Support small business and take the pledge!

The idea of the Small Business Shout Outs that Bridget Archer MP has been running throughout COVID began as a way to show support for the small business community in a tangible way.

“From the beginning of the pandemic, I have advocated for government support and welcomed the various packages put in place, but I wanted to do more - put my own money where my mouth is so to speak,” Mrs Archer said.

With the upcoming federal election, the shout outs wrapped up at the end of March with more than 100 small businesses and over $10,000 put back in the local community. Every dollar spent at a small business supports our local economy. Visit bridgetarcher.com.au and take the pledge!

the resulting improvements to the Hall’s accessibility and functionality will ensure it remains relevant as a venue for conferences, functions and other events both large and small.”

Work on stage one and two of the redevelopment, which includes upgrades to the hall’s heating, meeting rooms, toilets, lighting, audio and visual capabilities, will be completed this year.

Stage three civil works are expected to start later this year and will include an eye-catching extension to the Hall fronting the City Park.

“This will involve a significant redevelopment of the eastern wing, including the cafe, kitchen, a meeting room as well as a new entrance and foyer,” Cr Gibson said.

Tasmanian architecture firm Terroir was engaged as the primary architectural and engineering design team for the project.

“Bridget is doing a fantastic job. She really cares about the electorate; she is willing to listen to people’s issues… she is very strong, and stands by her convictions as no doubt many people have seen in recent times. Bridget is a great representative.”

Barry Easther, former Mayor of West Tamar Council

Terroir director Scott Balmforth with the design for the Albert Hall redevelopment flanked by City of Launceston Acting Mayor Danny Gibson and Federal Member for Bass Bridget Archer.

LOCAL SERVICES

MONDAY, 25 APRIL 2022

Please consider attending a local service. I recommend checking service and event times closer to the date.

Beaconsfield

6.00am Dawn Service, Cenotaph, RSL Park, Weld St

10.45am March, Assemble in West St

11.00am Service, Cenotaph, RSL Park, Weld St

Bridport

6.00am Dawn Service, Cenotaph, Main St

10.30am March, Assemble at CWA car park for 10.45am march

11.00am Service, Cenotaph, Main St

Cape Barren Island

6.00am Dawn Service, Cape Barren Cenotaph

Exeter

6.00am Dawn Service, Cenotaph, Murray St

11.00am Service, Cenotaph, Murray St

Flinders Island

6.00am Dawn Service, Emita Cenotaph

10.30am March, Assemble outside Bowman’s Store

11.00am Service, Whitemark Memorial Hall

George Town

5.50am Dawn Service, Max Harris Memorial Reserve

7.15am RSL Breakfast, Graham Fairless Centre, Memorial Hall

10.30am March, Assemble at Memorial Hall, Macquarie St

10.50am Service, Max Harris Memorial Reserve

Launceston

6.00am Dawn Service, Cenotaph, Royal Park

10.15am March, Departs Princes Square

11.00am Service, Cenotaph, Royal Park

Lilydale

6.00am Dawn Service, Cenotaph

11.00am Service, Memorial Hall

Nunamara

3.30pm Service, Nunamara Memorial Hall

Scottsdale

6.00am Dawn Service, Cenotaph, Alfred St

10.30am Service, RSL Club then march to Cenotaph

11.00am Service, Cenotaph, Alfred St

Springfield

2.30pm Service, Grounds of St Paul’s, 35727 Tasman Highway

Authorised by B. Archer, Liberal Party, 100 St John Street, Launceston TAS 7250.

Vale Harry Reeve

On Tuesday, 29 March Federal Member for Bass Bridget Archer gave the following speech in Parliament House to honour the life of Harry Reeve.

On Tuesday 15th February 2022, Rex “Harry” Reeve passed away in his 102nd year.

A World War Two veteran, I had the privilege of meeting Harry when I presented him with a commemorative medallion for his service during the war at the Launceston RSL in 2020.

Leaning closer to hear him, Harry quite sheepishly whispered “Darren Chester has already sent me one of these, can I keep this one to?” Given his service, I told him that was ok by me! I was also chuffed to learn that Harry had his handwritten 100th birthday card from me on his wall.

Harry hailed from Tasmania’s north-east, leaving

school at 14 to work in farming with his dad before getting a job on the railways. Harry joined the Australian Navy in November 1941, conducting convoy work in the Pacific, chiefly in the New Guinea area previously describing this work as “terribly monotonous…she wasn’t all beer and skittles.”

Harry was married to his beloved wife Bev for more than 60 years and was father to Peter and Vicki, with Vicki calling her dad “one in a million.”

Last week I sat with Bev and Vicki to hear of Harry’s last days after taking a fall. There is of course deep grief over losing their husband and father and I know those last days before Harry passed were painful.

Harry was so loved by all who knew him, and my heart is with his family.

Vale Harry.

Bridget Archer MP presenting Harry Reeve with his commemorative medallion in August 2020.

SPORT

On the Ball

The playground development of Regent Square in George Town is now complete with the installation of a three-quarter sized basketball court.

Federal Member for Bass Bridget Archer said the new court provides a fantastic space for the community to socialise, have fun and be active.

“With the completed Pump Track also recently opening to the public, George Town locals of all ages can take advantage of another top-notch facility that is free and accessible to all,” Mrs Archer said.

“The purpose-built playground which includes a flying fox and trampolines truly offers activities for kids of all ages.”

George Town Mayor Greg Kieser said the court was identified as a need and priority of the community when Council undertook public consultation on the development of Regent Square.

Supporting community sport

“Council is extremely happy with the facilities the children’s playground offers the community and the new basketball court facility is one that many children, adolescents, and parents have been eagerly awaiting. We believe this addition will be as popular as the other facilities and amenities showcased in this amazing playground” he said.

The remaining space will include new pathways, carparking, toilet facilities, Aboriginal gathering space, park furniture, landscaping, parking areas, story boarding of indigenous history, and a showpiece entrance feature.

Federal Member for Bass Bridget Archer recently joined Member for Windermere Nick Duigan, sponsors and the local George Town community for the George Town Football Club’s Community Jumper Presentation evening.

“With both men and women junior and senior teams, the George Town Saints are the heart of the George Town sport community,” Mrs Archer said.

“As a sponsor of the Club over the past few years, I wish the players all the best for the upcoming season.”

Junior Soccer Stars off to Canberra

After more than two years of cancelled events across all sports, we are beginning to see the return of a range of state and national tournaments and championships

Federal Member for Bass Bridget Archer said that tournaments and championships play an important role in the development of young players and athletes.

“Competing at a higher-level gives participants a chance to further develop skills both professionally and personally,” Mrs Archer said.

Bridget recently provided a donation to George Town Junior Soccer Club players Jazmin and Sophia

(pictured) who will be travelling to Canberra in July to compete in the 2022 Kanga Cup, the Southern Hemisphere’s largest youth football tournament.

Financial assistance is also available through the Local Sporting Championships grant program. Visit: www.sportaus.gov.au/grants_and_funding/ local_sporting_champions for more information.

“I don’t really follow the politicians much but I can tell that what Bridget’s done is really great for the area.”

Jason Hill, Owner, Send It MTB Shuttles, George Town

“With Bridget, you know what you get. And what you get is somebody who is just going to fight and fight and fight for you.