LOCAL disability provider Nexus
welcomed Labor Candidate for Lyons
Rebecca White and National Disability Service (NDS) CEO Michael Perusco to its northern suburbs respite property in the lead up to the Federal election.
The visit focused on discussing key disability sector priorities for the upcoming federal election with Mr Perusco highlighting the importance of all political parties committing to a sustainable disability service system.
“The NDIS is our most significant social reform in a generation but to keep it sustainable requires sustainable quality providers and we
can no longer take that for granted,” Mr Perusco said.
Alongside changes like tiered pricing and universal registration, NDS lists the implementation of foundational supports as another key priority, one that is crucial for NDIS providers like Nexus who deliver services to many children and young people with complex support needs.
“Nexus prides itself on providing high-quality, client-centred services to people with complex support needs,” Nexus CEO Mark Jessop said.
“But our ability to continue providing this specialist support remains in the balance, and depends on government funding and
the successful roll out of these new foundational supports.”
Labor Candidate Rebecca White said all Australians deserve to live with dignity and the NDIS has helped to “transform so many lives”.
“I am proud of what has been achieved since the NDIS was introduced by the Gillard Labor government and hope that I can continue to build on this legacy if I am elected to represent our community in Canberra,” Ms White said.
National Disability Services is Australia’s peak body for disability service organisations, and Australia’s biggest and most diverse network of disability
service providers. NDS members collectively operate several thousand services for more than 300,000 Australians with disability and employ a workforce of more than 100,000 people.
NDS is committed to a sustainable and diverse disability service sector, underpinned by the provision of highquality, evidence-based practices and supports that strengthen, safeguard and provide greater choice for people with disability in Australia.
For more information about NDS’s 2025 Federal election campaign, please visit: https://nds.org.au/ resources/all-resources/ federal-election-2025
TWENTY FOUR-YEAROLD Tasmanian artist Aisha Sherman-Noth won the 2025 Glover Prize for her piece depicting the Brooker Highway.
Ms Sherman-Noth’s painting ‘Weeping birches on the avenue’ shows the view from her home next to the Brooker Highway and uses stark colours and shapes to show the intersection between nature and human creation.
The painting has a strong personal connection to Ms Sherman, who has been seeing the view from her home for the past eight years.
“I have lived in this house since 2017 and I have seen this scene every day, looking out onto the highway and seeing these trees, so it is very personal,” she said.
“I was interested in looking at the ways in which people change the landscape.
“These trees are obviously not native to Tassie and they have been planted there for a reason, I assume to make the highway seem more approachable to people coming into the city.
“It’s interesting to see how people have changed the landscapes to suit the needs of people.”
Ms Sherman-North said she couldn’t believe she won and that it has given her a significant confidence boost
“When I was chosen as a finalist, it was really exciting as I wasn’t expecting to be one,” she said.
“When they called me and told me I actually won, I was in total disbelief, even when I
was there it still felt very unreal.
“It was lovely getting to talk to the judges as well, they were so supportive and just really great people.”
The judges praised Ms Sherman-Noth’s use of colour and turning something as mundane as a highway into a brilliant piece of art.
“Her painting is an exemplary landscape work, a very impressive achievement for a young artist at the beginning of her career,” Judge Melissa Loughnan said.
“I can’t wait to see what comes from Ms Sherman-Noth next.”
Ms Sherman-Noth will be featuring in more Tasmanian art shows this year, including one with a fellow young artist at the Sawtooth Gallery.
PROVIDING improved and contemporary facilities for students and staff is the aim of a $23 million redevelopment at Hobart City High School.
Tasmania’s Minister for Educatio Jo Palmer, said the construction wouldcreate world-class learning environments that wouldbenefit students in the future.
“This exciting project will feature a new learning and social heart at the New Town campus,
flexible learning spaces, upgraded courtyard, improved science and art areas and better distributed student bathrooms,” Ms Palmer said.
“Importantly, the project has been shaped by the voices of students, staff and the broader community.
“As part of our 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania’s Future, a further 15 schools are set to receive major upgrades
through the School Building Blitz.”
Liberal Member for Clark Simon Behrakis announced that the Tasmanian firm, Vos Construction and Joinery, had been appointed to undertake the works expected to be completed next year.
“The revitalisation of Hobart City High School fulfills our election commitment and demonstrates our dedication to providing
“AN unforced, natural, lyrical voice” is how the Judges of the 2025 Tasmanian Premier’s Literary Awards describe the Aboriginal Writer’s Fellowship winner Nunami SculthorpeGreen.
With outstanding merit and significant potential as a storyteller and writer, the judges said this award recognizes Nunami’s achievements and the decision to grant the Fellowship to Nunami was unanimous.
contemporary learning facilities where students can thrive,” Mr. Behrakis said.
“This is part of the Tasmanian Government’s record investment in education infrastructure across the State.”
Preliminary work at Hobart City High School began in 2021, with $1.6 million allocated for early works to support coeducational learning at both the New Town and Ogilvie campuses.
Speaking about her published piece ‘It’s not George that we follow’ in Uninnocent Landscapes, the judges say Nunami demonstrates courage and ambition in her writing, allowing space for the issues she confronts to be exposed and challenged.
On winning the award from an impressive shortlist, Nunami, a Palawa and Warlpiri woman said: “I am honoured to have
received the Aboriginal writer’s fellowship at the Tasmanian Literary Awards.”
“I already felt like a winner being shortlisted among people whose work I admire so much in the shortlist.
“I’m very grateful for the opportunity and the judges for their thoughtful critique of my work. To have writers like that speak of my work in that way is very heartening.
“As a largely selfemployed creative, the prize money is a blessing that will enable me to continue to create, write and develop my practice, and I look forward to getting to work with Island Magazine as a part of this fellowship.”
“Awards like this are very important - it’s great to see a development opportunity designated for Aboriginal storytellers receive the same funding as the book prize categories.”
The judges commended the shortlisted writers for the fellowship, including Adam Thompson, Jillian Mundy and Brooke Robinson, for their exceptional skill and valuable contributions to the broader Tasmanian literary sector. They said the writers adeptly transformed age-old oral tradition narrative into written form, taking the reader on diverse journeys of family, Country, and personal insights and sharing.
Spanning seven different awards and $125,000 in prize money, the Tasmanian Literary Awards celebrate excellence in the Tasmanian literary sector while raising the profile of local authors and fostering future talent.
To see the award winners and shortlisted entries, visit www. arts.tas.gov.au/ tasliteraryawards.
AN opportunity to capture the vibrant colours of Autumn and win a prize in the Tasmanian Autumn Festival is now open to all new, budding and experienced photographers.
Destination Southern Tasmania CEO Alex Heroys said autumn in Southern Tasmania was a photographer’s dream.
“It begins with shorter days, longer sunsets and changing colours in the landscape, “ he said.
“To celebrate this stunning season,
Destination Southern Tasmania invites photographers of all skill levels to share their best autumn captures for a chance to win incredible prizes.”
Last year’s winner
used a phone to photograph a cluster of colourful autumn leaves that captured the essence of autumn.
Darren Wright, photographer and Marketing Coordinator for Destination Southern Tasmania, said the competition encouraged both locals and visitors to take a moment, step outside and capture the magic of autumn.
Mr Wright said the competition generated an incredible response last year, with more than 2,400 entries submitted via the event hashtag.
“It is not just about photography,” he said.
“It’s about appreciating the region’s stunning seasonal changes, living
in the moment, and sharing them with the world.”
The winning photographer will be rewarded with a luxurious night in the Grand Heritage King Room at The Tasman, a luxury collection hotel in Hobart.
The entry process is simple. Share your autumn photos on Instagram using the hashtag #AutumnTasmania25 and tag @ hobartandbeyond. Remember to include the location in the caption.
Visit www. hobartandbeyond. com.au for details on the competition, the registration process, and other events during the season.
THE Tasmanian Government is working with councils and the Local Government Association of Tasmania (LGAT) on improving councillor education.
The LGAT will now take the lead on administering the councillor Learning and Development Framework.
Minister for Local Government Kerry Vincent said the transition empowered the sector to take
ownership of the Framework, ensuring it remained fit-forpurpose.
“We want councillors to have the skills and knowledge they need to make informed decisions on behalf of their community, and the Learning and Development Framework forms a key part of this,” he said.
“Our early investment, backed by close collaboration with LGAT and the broader sector
to establish this Framework, is setting a standard for councillor education across Tasmania.
“With the core components now in place, LGAT is ideally positioned to take the lead in ensuring the Framework evolves in step with sector needs, while remaining both relevant and financially sustainable.”
The transfer of the Framework is set to be complete by 1 July 2025, ensuring LGAT
has ample time to solidify the Framework ahead of the upcoming local government elections in October 2026.
The Government is progressing an ambitious local government reform agenda as part of our 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania’s Future, with new legislative provisions expected later in 2025 to mandate councillor learning and development requirements.
GOVERNOR of Tasmania
Barbara Baker has supported the vital work of the Hobart Women’s Shelter by hosting an International Women’s Day fundraising luncheon at Government House.
“More than 100 people attended the luncheon, which raised more than $18,300 in ticket sales and donations, with all proceeds going to the Hobart Women’s Shelter,” Ms Baker said.
This second annual
TASMANIAN Indie
Authors are excited to host the grand finale of the Hobart LitFest with their sixth annual book fair at the Long Gallery, Salamanca Arts Centre, on 12 April.
Georgina Makalani, one of the founding members of Tasmanian Indie Authors, said the fair, which is free to enter, is an excellent opportunity to meet and discover Tasmanian authors.
“Since 2019, we’ve been growing this professional and hugely popular fair, which is now the envy of mainland authors that visit,” she said.
“What makes our fair unique is the diverse range of genres, the chance to
interact with more than 50 Tasmanian authors, and the exciting book giveaways throughout the day.
“This is also a wonderful opportunity for us authors to connect with our readers and hear their feedback on our work.
“Last year, we had more than 500 visitors with a surprising number of interstate visitors.”
Mark Mannock, a Tasmanian Indie Author, said they were delighted to be approached by Hobart LitFest to celebrate the end of the festival, which celebrates Hobart as a world-wide recognised ‘City of Literature’.
“We are delighted to partner with Hobart LitFest
and share our story as independent authors in Tasmania,” he said.
“We have many awardwinning and bestselling authors in the group, with a thriving online market and significant partnerships with local bookstores.
“We meet monthly, host various workshops and events at the Hobart Bookshop, and are part of a flourishing global
community of independent authors.”
“We are a rebellion. Being independent means we can write about what we want and are free to manage all aspects of our work.”
For more information about Tasmanian Indie Authors and how to get involved, visit www. tassieindieauthorbookfair. com.au.
Governor’s International Women’s Day luncheon focused on UN Women Australia’s theme for 2025, “March Forward – For ALL Women and Girls”.
2025 marks 30 years since the adoption of the UN’s Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action for achieving gender equality.
“We were delighted to welcome Elizabeth Broderick AO as our guest speaker for this year’s
luncheon,” Ms Baker said.
“She discussed the major challenges we still need to address to support women and girls in Australia and around the world.
Chief executive officer Janet Saunders said the Hobart Women’s Shelter was reflecting on its 50 years of service while also marching forward to address what needed to be done to support Tasmanian women and children.
“Since 1974, the shelter has provided safe, emergency accommodation, support and housing to women and children experiencing family violence and homelessness,” she said.
“While celebrating our achievements, we also continue to work towards our vision to create a safe and inclusive community free from homelessness, violence, inequality and injustice.”
FOR local single mother
Phul Maya Tamang (pictured above), receiving a free laptop through a collaborative Tasmanian program will make a world of difference to her son’s education.
The Tech4Kids TAS – No Child Left Behind initiative, made possible with funding from the Tasmanian Community Fund (TCF) and TasNetworks, is designed to bridge the digital divide and make sure students across the state have access to the technology and skills they need to succeed.
Ms Tamang’s son is one of 1,000 students throughout Tasmania who will benefit from the program, which provides free laptops thanks to a partnership between WorkVentures, TasCOSS and Anglicare.
“Working with a small budget, it has always been hard to afford things like this, but I’m
so excited to show my son what I have received today and see the impact it has on his learning,”
Ms Tamang said.
“I honestly believe this laptop will greatly improve his education and help him build a brighter future.
“Early on, he wanted to be a doctor, but now that he has entered high school he is very keen on starting his own business and this laptop will be of great assistance in realising his dream.
“I would like to thank everyone involved in this amazing cause, your support is truly appreciated and will benefit many young people across Tasmania.”
WorkVentures chief executive officer Caroline McDaid said young Tasmanians faced higher levels of digital exclusion than anywhere else in Australia and the Tech4Kids TAS – No
THE Liberal candidate for Clark, Marilena Di Florio (pictured above), says she is enormously proud to be running in the upcoming federal election.
“I started my working life serving our country in the Royal Australian Air Force,” she said.
“It was a demanding experience, but one that has shaped my values and beliefs.”
Like so many Tasmanian families, Ms Di Florio said she understood that balancing being a parent with a career could have its challenges.
“But when I look back, I am
proud of my resilience,” she said.
“It’s one of the reasons I’m confident I can be an effective member of Parliament.
“With hard work and compassion, I can represent our community the way people deserve to be represented.”
Ms Di Florio said she loved where she lived.
“Clark is full of amazing people, achieving brilliant things every day,” she said.
“I’m constantly in awe of the innovation shown by our local businesses, the empathy shown
by the not-for-profit sector and the vision of our young people.
“But all of these people also deserve to have strong leaders in their corner.
“I’ve been knocking on doors for more than a year, having conversations with people in our community and I’ve loved every minute of it.
“The positive feedback people have given me has made me even more determined to fight for better services and to make sure we reduce the cost of living for the betterment of all Tasmanians.”
child left behind was aimed at changing that.
“We believe every Tasmanian child has the right to a quality, holistic education and the opportunities afforded through connection to the digital world but unfortunately, right now, this is not the case,” she said.
TCF chairperson Kym Goodes said the three main barriers to digital inclusion in education were access, affordability and digital ability.
“The funds provided by the TCF and partner organisations will help directly tackle these barriers by allowing more children to have access to affordable technology” she said.
“Removing barriers to education, such as digital barriers, are critical to ensuring more children are able to engage with learning and achieve better educational outcomes.”
UNITY and hope were on full display as the community took a powerful stand against racism on 21 March, the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination and the launch of the We Stand Together Against Racism campaign.
Hundreds of people walked together from the Hobart waterfront to Parliament House Lawns, taking a united stand against racism and discrimination in all its forms.
The walk provided an opportunity for individuals, families, organisations and businesses to come together in solidarity, raise awareness and pledge to contribute
to a future free from racial discrimination.
The event was led by former Premier and Multicultural Resource Centre
Tasmania chair, Peter Gutwein, alongside Mayors and CEOs of the six Greater Hobart councils (Hobart, Clarence, Glenorchy, Sorell, Brighton and Kingborough), demonstrating a collective commitment to fostering inclusive and respectful communities.
Glenorchy Mayor
Sue Hickey said both the walk and Council’s participation in the joint anti-racism campaign reaffirmed its commitment to creating inclusive communities free from racism.
“By walking together, we sent a clear message: racism has no place in our
society, and every individual has a role to play in building a more inclusive and equitable future,” she
said.
“As one of the participating councils, we are incredibly proud to have been
part of this movement.
“Together, we’ve taken a vital step forward, but our work continues.
“Let’s keep striving for a future where diversity and inclusion are celebrated every day”.
SOUTHERN Tasmanians turned their unwanted items into cash on the annual Garage Sale Trail last November, generating more than $186,000 and extending the life of 35,000 pre-loved items.
Results of a recent report by Garage Sale Trail and Taverner
Research Group highlighted the outcomes of the waste reduction initiative made possible by nine councils across the region and TasWaste South.
The results showed the average garage sale organiser taking home $515 and shoppers
saving money with access to cheaper, second-hand products.
TasWaste South
Chief executive officer
Paul Jackson said the research highlighted the local community’s commitment to reducing waste.
“Programs like Garage Sale Trail are
important in shifting perceptions of secondhand and getting more people reusing items rather than sending them to landfill,” he said.
Across Southern Tasmania, 10,326 people participated in the two weekends of garage sales which
provided a way for residents to reduce waste, make some money and get to know their neighbours.
“More and more people are looking for ways to generate some extra cash or save money on everyday items. Buying and selling second-hand is
one easy way we can all do this, whether it’s hosting or shopping at garage sales or using online marketplaces”, general manager of Garage Sale Trail
Barbara Bill said.
“In fact, the research shows that thrifty shoppers across Southern Tasmania
saved $447,400 by buying second-hand instead of new on the Garage Sale Trail last year.”
Locals can now register their interest in the 2025 event, which will take place on 8 to 9 & 15 to 16 November, at www.garagesaletrail. com.au
MANAGING your home energy just got easier. The free MySolstice Customer App puts control in your hands. With just a few taps, you can track your usage, pay bills, and set up a direct debit.
With energy prices a hot topic, having a simple way to manage your account makes all the difference.
That’s why Solstice Energy built the free MySolstice App; to make managing your energy hassle-free.
Adam Dance, Interim General Manager Retail with Solstice Energy, says the free app makes life easier for customers. “We know people are busy, and managing gas and electricity bills shouldn’t be a headache. The MySolstice Customer App gives customers an easy way to stay on top of their energy use and payments, all in one place.”
The MySolstice Customer App enables customers to:
• Set up a direct debit – say goodbye to late payments by automating your bills.
• Check your usage – get a clear view of your energy consumption.
• Pay a bill – make secure
payments in just a few taps.
• Check your account balance – know where you stand at a glance.
• Add a guest user – share access with family members or business partners.
For new and existing Solstice Energy customers, downloading the app is simple. Search for “Solstice Energy” in the App Store or Google Play Store and follow the prompts to register and log in. If you’ve registered through the MySolstice Customer Portal, your login details will work seamlessly with the app.
“I love that I can check my electricity usage whenever I want,” says Jess Hill, a Solstice Energy customer in Sandford. “It’s easy to use, and I don’t have to wait for my bill to see how much I’ve used or how much it will cost. It’s made a big difference in how I manage my power.”
For Solstice Energy, delivering a great customer experience goes beyond competitive rates. It’s about giving customers the tools they need to stay in control. Based in Tasmania, with offices in Launceston and Hobart, Solstice Energy
understands what matters to local households and businesses.
And there’s never been a better time for those who haven’t yet made the switch. New customers who sign up with Solstice Energy can access competitive gas or electricity rates, a great solar feed-in tariff, and perks like the Solstice Rewards loyalty program, offering discounts on everyday expenses like groceries and petrol.
Visit the App Store or Google Play Store to download the MySolstice Customer App and take charge of your energy. If you’re not with Solstice Energy yet, maybe it’s time to switch and start saving.*
To learn more, visit www. solsticeenergy.com.au or contact our local customer service team at 1800 750 750.
*The projected saving is calculated for the period commencing 1 April 2025 based on the standard published tariffs as at that date. Prices are subject to change. Customers should regularly review the advertised tariffs of all providers to ensure they’re getting the best deal. The
THE Tasmanian Liberal Government has announced that more than 100 schools and child and family learning centres (CFLC) will receive playground and sports court upgrades.
Minister for Education
Jo Palmer said the Government had committed $10 million to deliver the upgrades.
“Physical activity is essential for healthy development and learning, and we want to make sure our children keep healthy and active,”
she said.
“Over the next five years 104 schools and CFLCs across the state will receive playground and sports court upgrades for the benefit of students and local communities.
“Providing the best possible sporting and recreational facilities is critical to supporting positive physical, mental and social development for our students.
Tasmanian Government schools and CFLCs were invited
and about your wellbeing.
to lodge submissions as part of the Playground and Sports Court Upgrade Program.
The process for assessing submissions considered the asset’s condition, the Index of Community SocioEducational Advantage (ICSEA) for each site, school improvement and learning outcomes, as well as community usage.
Works will begin as a priority on projects that are shovel ready and have the highest needs.
Take time to look after yourself and the people you care for.
Hotel Bisdee respite care for short-term stays and Bisdee Community Centre for day respite are available to all Tasmanians.
Meet new people, join bus trips and activities, or simply relax. Contact us for affordable rates and practical support.
TASRACING has committed $100,000 for racing animal welfare initiatives through its Racing Animal Welfare (RAW) Grants Program 202425.
The funding to support projects that enhance the welfare of Tasmanian racing animals during and after their racing careers – will be
provided across three broad categories a follows:
• Animal Health Research – up to $20,000 for projects promoting health care and welfare for racing animals.
• Facilities and Equipment – up to $10,000 for projects improving facilities or equipment that directly impact animal
welfare.
• Initiatives to Enhance Animal Welfare – up to $5,000 for projects contributing to enhanced animal welfare standards.
The RAW Grants Program provides funding for eligible applicants from Tasmanian-based registered not-forprofit organisations,
charities and businesses or sole traders. For application guidelines and to apply for a grant, applicants should visit https:// tasracing.smartygrants. com.au/ Applications close on 9 May 2025. Successful grant applicants will be announced on 4 June 2025.
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AFTER 27 years of adventure together, Julianne and Robert Wignall are now navigating their most challenging journey yet, adapting to a new way of life as Julianne steps into the role of full-time carer.
Julianne is one of the 87,000 Tasmanian informal carers of a loved one with disability, mental ill health, chronic or life limiting condition or drug or alcohol dependence or who is frail or aged.
It was during a trip across Australia that their world changed in an instant.
Robert suddenly fell critically ill and was rushed by the Royal Flying
Doctor Service to Adelaide Hospital, where he spent time in intensive care fighting for his life.
Since returning home to their seven-acre property in Dulcot, Julianne has taken on most of the responsibilities of running their home and garden while caring for Robert.
“When Robert was in hospital, it was incredibly hard seeing him so unwell,” Julianne said.
At the same time, I had to keep everything else ticking along back home.
“He’s lived such an active life, always capable and independent, so this new reality has been a huge adjustment for both of us.”
As the physical and emotional challenges mounted, Julianne turned to the Carer Gateway for support.
Care2Serve, the service arm of Carers Tasmania, is the Tasmanian provider of Carer Gateway, an Australian Government initiative developed to provide carers with advice, information and a range of other free support and services.
Through Carer Gateway, carers can access vital services, including help with booking residential respite, connection with other carers, advice and information on planning for the future, tailored support packages, access to free counselling, personalised sessions with a specialised carer coach and 24/7 emergency support if something happens that prevents them from caring.
“I’m so grateful for Carer Gateway,” she said.
“The emotional toll has been enormous, but thanks to their counsellors, I’ve found
strength I didn’t know I had and I’ll never forget the difference they’ve made.”
Julianne now attends a Care2Serve Carer Support Group and receives practical help at home.
“We’re determined to stay here but managing a big property on my own can be tough,” she said.
Having someone help out has been such a relief.”
“The support has been outstanding and it’s clear the people involved
genuinely care, which means the world to us.”
Julianne herself has never struggled to give back to those in need.
After seeing how much comfort Trauma Teddies brought her grandson during long hospital stays, she began knitting them herself.
“Each time he was admitted, he was given a teddy and it always brightened his day,” she said.
“Eight years later,
I’m about to finish my 1000th teddy.”
“I used to hand them out myself but now the Care2Serve helps me get them into the arms of people who need them most.”
Julianne said this experience had taught her and Robert a lot about resilience and the importance of accepting help.
“Don’t be too proud to reach out, no one is invincible” she said.
“Carer Gateway has
made us feel valued and respected and I encourage anyone in need to ask for support.”
“Just remember that there are people out there who really want to help.”
If you are in a similar situation and need help with your caring role, contact Carer Gateway. Call 1800 422 737 (and press 1 at the menu) or visit the website at www.care2serve.com.au
Gateway can help you if you care for a family member or friend with disability, mental ill health, chronic or life-limiting illness, alcohol or other drug dependence, or who is frail aged.
METRO operators across the state were given the recognition they deserve on Tuesday March 18 for Bus Driver Appreciation Day.
Metro CEO Katie Cooper said while the company’s drivers deserved to be recognised for their
work every day of the year, it was particularly important to thank them for their work in 2025.
“Our Bus Operators work hard every day to safely deliver their passengers to their destination and keep our communities connected,” she said.
“We think marking the day is a small way that we can recognise this and show our drivers just how much they are appreciated.
“On behalf of everyone at Metro, to our bus operators, a sincere thank you for your hard work and dedication.”
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THE little mouse from New York is coming to The Playhouse on 9 April, just in time for the April school holidays.
The Hobart Repertory Theatre Society (Rep) is bringing to life the magical tale of Stuart Little, a mouse born into an ordinary New York family.
How will brother George and Snowbell the cat cope with the new addition?
What adventures will they all get up to?
This family-friendly production will take audiences on a journey across the American countryside as Stuart embarks on a hero’s
quest to find his fortune and his dearest friend, Margalo the bird.
It’s a heartwarming story of growing up, leaving home for the first time and discovering oneself.
Hobart local and director Heather Heron will bring an authentic New York feel to the show having lived and worked in the city for several years.
“I’ve acted at Hobart Rep in the past, but this is my first directing role with the company and I’m excited that it’s Stuart Little,” Ms Heron said.
“I am very passionate about children’s theatre in general, and how it
engages children and takes them on a journey through the characters.”
A writer, director and actor, Heather has directed Therapy Hour and Perfect Timing for Manhattan Repertory Theatre’s One Act Festival in New York City.
She directed The Love Potion for Cabrini One Act Play Festival and Help wanted: Pirates! for Magnet Theatre in New York City.
Locally she may be known for her direction of the musical Dragon Girl for Bagdad Primary School.
The production features Abbey Udovicic, Aiden Cruise,
A talented cast of local actors who bring the story to life with energy and enthusiasm.
Don’t miss this enchanting production that promises to delight audiences of all ages.
Stuart Little opens on Wednesday 9 April 2025 and will run until Saturday 19 April 2025. Tickets are available now and bookings can be made at playhouse. org.au or by contacting The Playhouse at boxoffice@playhouse. org.au or on 6234 1536.
School holiday fun for the whole family
FOR almost 80 years, Mary Ogilvy House in New Town has provided a welcoming, safe and comfortable space for residents to live out their golden years.
Mary Ogilvy Homes Society chief executive officer Judy Dew said the homes’ legacy was built on providing quality, independent and personalised care.
said.
With a range of activities, entertainment and supportive services on offer, the local non-profit caters to individual needs in a social environment.
“Mary Ogilvy has a reputation of being a very homely environment and we always strive to continue maintaining that sense of community and care,” she
“Although our services are broadly general, we are well equipped to cater for more personalised needs such as dementia care and mobility issues in a wellsupported independent living environment”.
Keeping the message simple and adopting the brand elements is the key to good advertising.
“We have a fantastic physiotherapy program, both individual and in group,
which run out of our wellequipped on-site gym”.
“We can also call upon allied health care professionals who can provide some extra attention in diet, podiatry, speech pathology, dental and much more when needed.”
Mary Ogilvy house was originally established as an aged care centre for women
in the 1940s and is still a registered charity providing care for all today.
Mary Ogilvy director of care Fifi Hwaba said anyone was welcome to pop in for a visit and tour the home.
“When people walk in here, they always get the sense that this is a home and not an institution,” she said.
“Our location also provides
some great opportunities for outings, including accompanied trips to the New Town Plaza Shopping centre which is right next door.
“All of our staff are kind, compassionate and caring, ensuring every resident is given the proper attention and consideration they deserve.”
A home filled with love and care, where your loved one is treated like family.
The Mary Ogilvy Homes Society is a not-for-profit provider of high-quality residential aged care. We deliver individual care, allowing our residents to experience life the way they want to.
Our independent, self care living units are well suited to those wanting to downsize with modern conveniences close by.
Located in the heart of Hobart, Mary Ogilvy Homes offer the perfect place for permanent residential aged care, short stay respite or independent living.
Contact us today to learn more, or visit maryogilvy.com.au
ARE you looking for a welcoming social hub where you can connect with others and enjoy a range of activities? The CommunityBased Support (CBS) social hubs in New Town and Kingston offer programs that promote well-being and creativity in a supportive environment.
There’s something for everyone, including arts and crafts, games, guest speakers, themed events, social lunches, and outings to local attractions. You can also drop in for a cuppa and a
chat! The social hub is a great way to stay active, try new things, and maintain social connections – all of which contribute to improving our quality of life.
Friendly staff at the hubs create a warm, inclusive atmosphere where everyone feels comfortable and supported. The team understand the importance of maintaining independence while building meaningful relationships, and a range of activities are offered to support healthy ageing. One such activity is the popular
Ageing Backwards Program, which is designed to improve strength, flexibility, and balance.
This service is available to those eligible under established Aged Care and Disability Support programs. Transport to and from the hub can be booked where available. Days at the hub include morning tea, lunch, and transport on our buses during external activities. Call CBS on 1300 227 827 or visit www.cbsaust.org.au/ social-programs for more information.
We’re raising funds to purchase virtual tour bikes, allowing residents to see the world, stay fit and build social connections.
After a successful pilot program, we’re seeking donations to install bikes at our five facilities across Tasmania. How you can help:
• Donate: As a Tasmanian not-for-profit, every contribution helps!
• Sponsor a bike: Fund an entire bike and leave a lasting impact.
• Spread the Word: Share our fundraiser with friends and family.
The CBS social hubs in New Town and Kingston are welcoming spaces where friendship, outings, and activities bring people together.
Stay connected with your community, enjoy new experiences, and take part in a range of social and wellbeing activities.
Whether it’s a group outing, a friendly chat, or support to stay independent, the hubs are here to help you make the most of every day.
friendship | outings | activities | connection | support | wellbeing | community
IN conjunction with International Women’s Day the Tasmanian Government has provided small grants to support events across Tasmania. Minister for Women and the Prevention
of Family Violence Jo Palmer said International Women’s Day was a major day of global celebration for the economic, leadership, political and social achievements of women.
“The International Women’s Day Small Grants Program supports not-for-profit organisations from across Tasmania to host an event to commemorate International Women’s Day,” she said.
“These events will help foster connection and celebrate the valuable contribution of Tasmania’s women.
“An important part of our 2030 Strong
Plan for Tasmania’s Future is to support our communities, and I’d like to congratulate the successful recipients of the grants.”
There are 15 events across Tasmania that have
received funding from the Tasmanian Government.
Some of the recipients include the Narryna National Heritage Museum, Print Radio Tasmania, Business and Employment Southeast
TOO often politicians make the mistake of forgetting that older Australians are every bit as invested in all aspects of society as everyone else. In other words, it’s not just about the Aged Pension, deeming rates and home care packages, as important as those matters are. It’s also about the myriad challenges confronting us all, and one of them in particular, traffic congestion, is what I’d like to dwell on here.
It’s interesting to note that traffic congestion in Hobart has been a significant issue for longer than people might realise. Indeed, as early as 1946 traffic congestion was identified as a significant problem due to the city’s narrow and crooked streets. That was when Hobart’s population was just 55,000. Hobart’s public transport system has also faced challenges for many decades.
The closure of the tram network in 1960, and the
trolleybus network in 1968, marked the shift towards the bus services which has since languished through years of State Government mismanagement and underinvestment.
Congested roads and inadequate public transport can be especially problematic for older people. Most obviously this can result in them struggling to get to appointments on time or having difficulty hauling home the grocery shop. Less obvious is the way in which a lack of convenient and affordable transport can lead to isolation, loneliness and poor health.
Of course, every problem has a solution. And while billion-dollar ring roads and tunnels would appear unaffordable, surely there are other ways to improve traffic flow and enhance alternative transport options. A good start would be fixing Metro, including free travel for seniors, as well as shelters and seating at all bus stops. And then there’s enhancing the ferry network and restoring passenger rail to Hobart’s northern suburbs, just for starters.
The District Nurses - supporting Tasmanians at home since 1896.
Our team of care managers, care coordinators, nurses and support workers provide a full range of services to you in your home. Support & Care that will help you stay healthy and independent at home and within your community.
every six months in a small room at the corner of AMCAL Pharmacy Rosetta to raise awareness about hearing health.
Hearing Australia offers free basic hearing checks to all customers every March
following World Hearing Day and in October to celebrate Seniors Week.
Matthew Cameron-Rogers, from Hearing Australia, said the checks were quick and easy.
“I conduct a quick inspection of people’s ears before performing a basic hearing
assessment,” Matthew said.
“We discuss any concerns people may have about their hearing and explore options for ear care and hearing safety.”
Hearing Australia offers this initiative as a crucial first step in addressing hearing issues and helping individuals
understand the support and services available.
It is recommended that people have a hearing check every two to three-years, although those with diabetes are advised to get their hearing checked annually.
Australian Hearing provides
subsidised hearing services for eligible people, including pensioners and most veterans, at more than 110 permanent centres and more than 330 visiting sites across Australia. Pop-up clinics appear regularly in local pharmacies and clinics, and the Hearing Bus tours Tasmania every February. A permanent clinic is also available by appointment only in Sandy Bay. For more information or to book an appointment, phone 6221 9500 or visit www. hearing.com.au.
Experience
THE 19th Australasian Police and Emergency Services Games were recently held across multiple venues in greater Hobart
Across five days of friendly competition, thousands of emergency service personnel from across the country competed across almost 50 sporting events.
Minister for Police, Fire and Emergency Management Felix Ellis said the 2025 games were one of the biggest multidiscipline sporting events to ever take place in Tasmania.
“The games bring together police, fire, ambulance and SES, as well as those emergency staff that work in defence, customs, corrections, royal lifesaving, environment and the coast guard,” he said.
“Tasmania welcomed more than 2000 competitors who went head-to-head across a range of sports, all in the name of friendly competition and camaraderie.”
Minister Ellis said every year around the country, and internationally, emergency services worked hand-in-hand to keep communities safe.
“We’ve seen this recently with our friends from NSW providing aerial support during the west coast fires, and Tassie’s heroes in orange heading to Queensland to help with flood recovery efforts,” he said.
“These everyday heroes deserve our absolute gratitude, and we will always back them in.”
Hank Jongen, General Manager, Services Australia
HI everyone.
Like many parents, you might be thinking about how you could use your resources to help your kids. Is there some way I could use my home or other assets to enable my children to buy a home of their own?
They’re your assets, and you have the right to use your assets however you want, but you need to know that there may be bigger implications from your actions than you may have thought. It’s important to understand all the possible impacts on your payments, on your estate, and on your finances, before you make your decisions.
Let’s look in more detail at what it would mean if you enter a guarantor arrangement
or are thinking of gifting your kids some assets to help them out. How can I help with their home loan?
Parents might consider using their position as a property owner to help their children buy through a guarantor home loan.
The moneysmart website explains that a guarantor arrangement is when you use your home as security for another person, giving that person an underlying asset as the base of the loan.
If you’re getting a payment from Services Australia, there’re no implications for your payment just using your home as the underlying security in a guarantor loan. As long as the borrower continues to make all the repayments, the loan arrangement won’t impact the payment you get from us. You want to make
sure your kid won’t skip town because if they fail to meet repayments, as a guarantor you’re now legally required to pay.
If you fail to do so, the lender has the legal right to take possession of your home.
And if you make that repayment on the borrower’s behalf, this would be treated by us as a gift.
What happens if I make it a gift?
Gifting money can have implications if you’re getting a government benefit or wish to apply for some in the future. You can choose to give away any amount, but if you exceed the value of the gifting free areas, it could affect your payment.
The value of the gifting free areas are the same if you’re a single person or a couple. They are both: $10,000 in
one financial year, and $30,000 over 5 financial years - this can’t exceed $10,000 in a single financial year.
Now, if you’re thinking of selling your property to your child at a discounted price as a way of circumventing this rule, it won’t work. For example, if you own a property worth $780,000. But you sell it to your child for $600,000. We would assess the $180,000 difference as a gift.
Before you make any decisions, consider speaking to Services Australia’s free Financial Information Service about the possible implications on your financial position.
To speak to a FIS Officer, call us on 132 300 and say ‘Financial Information’ when asked for the reason for the call.
Until next time...
IN a historic nationwide
first, Tasmanian umpires will have pay parity across male and female community football matches.
Umpires will now be paid the same for Men’s and Women’s, Boy’s and Girl’s competitions at each level of football, extending from Under 12s through to Premier League.
AFL Tasmania umpiring manager Garry Dunne said this was a fantastic result for umpires and for football.
“It’s a great achievement for our umpires to be trailblazers
in this area, equal pay will encourage improved match day experiences for our female competitions and attract more umpires to our game,” he said
“We are grateful to our leagues, associations and umpires for working together to bring this to fruition.
“We’re committed to making our game inclusive and welcoming and we have a number of recruitment initiatives targeted to women and girls to introduce umpiring to them in a fun and fulfilling environment.”
Tasmanian field umpire
Olive Anderson said this represented an important step in an industry-wide shift.
“With the current programs fast-tracking the development of female umpires, we should see those benefits flow through to women and girls in umpiring,” she said.
“While there is some pushback around disparity of game time, from a technical perspective, the more congested, tackle dominant style of women’s football is generally more challenging to umpire, and equal pay reflects this.
“Everyone has a role to play in making sure new female umpires feel welcomed and supported and this additional support from AFL Tasmania for young female umpires helps them build connections with other umpires as well as support development.”
TUESDAY March 18
marked one year since Tasmania Football Club launched across Tasmania.
To celebrate this milestone, the club unveiled its mascot, Rum’un the Devil.
Rum’un was developed in partnership with Tasmanian arts organisation Terrapin Puppet Theatre.
Rum’un has been co-designed and developed with school children across Tasmania, with Rum’un’s fur made
from recycled school uniforms from across the island.
Following the launch, Rum’un set off around Tasmania engaging with communities and representing Tasmania Football Club.
Tasmania Football Club chief executive officer Brendon Gale said this milestone was worth celebrating.
“The Club has had a huge first year, with a range of milestones achieved throughout the year,” he said.
“Some of the
highlights included the significant increase in football participation across Tasmania, record membership numbers and a coming together to support our club like we have never seen before.
“We have a lot of work ahead of us, but with the support of our founding member base and the community more broadly we will continue to power ahead as we move toward entry into the national competition.”
Mr Gale said Rum’un
would become a beacon of the club across the state.
“The creation of Rum’un reflects our Club – uniquely Tasmanian, handcrafted and created with grit and determination representing our whole island,” he said.
“Rum’un is also a little bit cheeky and these characteristics are all true to the Tasmania Football Club, a club that represents our whole state and who does things our way.”