Dr Paris Buttfield-Addison (left) and Mars Buttfield-Addison (right) at the Level Up Tasmania Video Game Showcase
Photo credit Jillian Mundy
Stadium tender process moves forward
THE Macquarie Point Stadium project has reached another key milestone, with two major firms selected to progress to the next stage of the tender process.
BESIX Watpac and a Constructure joint venture, comprising Webuild, China Construction Oceania and McConnell Dowell, have been shortlisted to move into the Request for Tender phase.
Minister for Macquarie Point Urban Renewal Eric Abetz said the announcement reflected strong interest in the project from experienced international contractors.
“This is another important step forward for the Macquarie
Point Multipurpose Stadium,” he said.
“We have seen strong interest from major contractors capable of delivering a project of this scale and complexity.”
Macquarie Point Development Corporation CEO Anne Beach said the shortlisted firms had demonstrated the capability and experience required to deliver a project of this size.
“We were looking for firms with the right experience and capacity to build a stadium of this scale and importance, and we’re pleased to have two strong proponents moving into the next stage,” she said.
Ms Beach said the next phase would
involve detailed submissions, including delivery plans, timelines and pricing, with both bidders given access to project designs and technical information.
“We’ll work closely with the proponents over the coming months to ensure they are well equipped to develop strong bids,” she said.
“Local industry participation remains a key focus, with opportunities expected for Tasmanian subcontractors and workers throughout the build.”
The tender process is expected to continue through the year, with a preferred contractor anticipated to be selected by the end of 2026.
Connecting generations through community
THE Council of the Ageing Tasmania (COTA) hosted its 6th Generations Connect Fun Day at PW1 on Wednesday 29 April. It was a great day for people of all ages, connecting through a multitude of activities such as cooking, train rides, laser skirmish, and my favourite, crocheting.
This free event attracted more than 1,100 participants, a reflection of how interconnected and passionate the Hobart community can be.
In a world overwhelmed by crises, it is community connection that fosters hope and kindness.
COTA do incredible work advocating for
older Tasmanians, ensuring their voices are heard at all levels of government.
Recent statistics show 1 in 6 older Australians experience some
form of abuse, daily, a confronting reality.
All of us need to stand against elder abuse. Join me and other local pollies to walk against elder abuse
on 12 June as part of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day. Event details can be found online. See you there.
A render of the Macquarie Point pier. Photo supplied by the Macquarie Point Development Corporation
Sam Leishman and Cassy O’Connor at the COTA 6th Generations Connect Fun Day at PW1
Upgraded spaces support healing at Hobart Women’s Shelter
WOMEN and children experiencing family violence are benefiting from newly renovated communal spaces at the Hobart Women’s Shelter, designed to support healing, recovery and wellbeing.
The upgrades include a purpose-built activities space, recreation room and therapy room, along with an enhanced outdoor play area.
Each space has been thoughtfully designed using trauma-informed principles to create safe, welcoming environments that foster connection and resilience.
The project was made possible through the support of partners including the Tasmanian Community Fund, Variety Tasmania and Hobart Airport, alongside funding from the Australian Government’s Safe Places Emergency
Accommodation Program and Homes Tasmania.
Hobart Women’s Shelter chief executive officer Janet Saunders said the new spaces were already making a difference.
“These newly renovated spaces will make a meaningful difference in the daily lives of the women and children we support,” she said.
“Having safe, calming and engaging environments is essential to helping people heal from trauma and rebuild their confidence.”
Tasmanian Community Fund chair Kym Goodes said the project highlighted the importance of investing in both immediate safety and long term recovery.
“We are seeing growing demand for crisis accommodation across Tasmania and
investments like this are an important part of strengthening how communities respond,” she said.
“We need to ensure we are not only providing immediate safety but also creating environments that support recovery and longer term wellbeing.”
The upgrades form part of a broader expansion of the shelter, with plans underway for the construction of 15 new self-contained units to increase capacity and support more women and children in need.
The Hobart Women’s Shelter continues to play a critical role in supporting women and children escaping family violence, with these enhanced spaces further strengthening its ability to provide holistic, traumainformed care.
Crowds flock to Level Up Showcase
THE Level Up Tasmania Video Game Showcase has wrapped up in Hobart, bringing together developers, players and industry figures for a weekend celebrating the state’s growing games sector.
Held at Princes Wharf 1, the event featured 26 Tasmanian developers and more than 40 playable games, with
strong crowds turning out across the two-day showcase.
The event built on the success of its 2024 debut, offering attendees the chance to experience locally made games, meet developers and take part in activities including cosplay and panel discussions.
Game developer Adam Walker said the showcase
played an important role in highlighting the industry in Tasmania.
“It really exposes a whole sector of the community that people just don’t even know exists,” he said.
“Something like Level Up brings all of that together in one spot and people realise just how much is happening here.”
Fellow developer
Lindsay Mansfield said the event also highlighted the strength of the local creative community.
“Having this community around me has made me feel much more secure in what I’m doing,” she said.
“It shows how accessible game development can be and how supportive the community is.”
The 2026 Level Up Tasmania Video Game Showcase at Princes Wharf 1
Hobart Women’s Shelter team members Alice McCoy, Amelia Henley, Catherine Stockdale and Belinda Witter
Global fire experts to gather in Hobart for international conference
HOBART recently hosted leading fire and land management experts from around the world for the 8th International Fire Behaviour and Fuels Conference, which brought together researchers, practitioners and policymakers to explore the future of wildfire management.
The conference featured around 350 delegates and included more than 100 speakers across four program streams, along with workshops, field trips and an exhibition showcasing the latest tools and technologies in fire management.
Held every three years, the conference is a key event on the global wildfire calendar.
In 2026, it was hosted exclusively in Hobart, following previous
multi-city editions held simultaneously across locations including Ireland, and the United States.
International Association of Wildland Fire president Trevor Howard said Hobart was a natural choice to host the global gathering.
“We chose Hobart because of its close and historical association with all the major issues that we are dealing with in bushfire management,” he said
“Hobart, and Tasmania more broadly, has long been a leader in innovative land and parks management, forestry and water catchment management, as well as having a strong history in local bushfire brigades and community fire groups.
“There is also a wellestablished research
sector, at the University of Tasmania and elsewhere, that provides a better understanding of how we can live, work and play in a land of regular fire.”
Tasmania Fire Service (TFS) Community Fire Safety director Chris Collins said the TFS had lobbied to bring the conference to Hobart.
“The rationale behind this was to bring national and international practitioners to the state to share the latest available information, research and operational practices,” he said.
“The conference provides a great opportunity for us to leverage off these experts and improve our practices, to learn, to adapt and to forward plan.
Business Events
Tasmania CEO Marnie
Craig said the conference highlighted the state’s strength in hosting strategically aligned business events.”
“Hosting an international conference of this scale places our expertise on the world stage and reinforces our role in contributing to conversations that are shaping how communities respond to fire.” she said.
“Strategic business events like this bring global leaders into our regions and connect them directly with local researchers, practitioners and organisations.
“They create opportunities for new partnerships, strengthen our research and land management capability and showcase Tasmania’s leadership in this critical area.”
The Royal Society of St George returns to Tasmania
THE Royal Society of St George is a worldwide organisation, with branches across the United Kingdom, Europe, Africa, Asia, North America, and Australia.
The society has held the patronage of every reigning monarch since Queen Victoria in 1894.
The Royal Society of St George was also granted a Royal Charter in 1963 by Queen Elizabeth II. Glenorchy residents who join the Royal Society of St George, are following in the footsteps of such great Englishmen as Lord Baden-Powell,
founder of the Scout movement, Sir Winston Churchill, former British prime minister, King Edward VIII, Field Marshall Montgomery and Rudyard Kipling, the famous writer, poet and novelist.
King Charles III is the current patron.
The Royal Society of St George has had branches in Hobart, Launceston and Devonport from the early 1900s, but slowly fell dormant over time.
Tasmanian Branch is being re-formed after being dormant for a period of about ten years.
The branch is
inclusive, welcoming people from all walks of life, backgrounds, faiths and beliefs, who support its goals.
We promote Australia’s heritage, culture, traditions and national flag, and England’s influence on this.
The Royal Society of St George’s Royal Charter is reflected in the Tasmanian Branch’s aims.
For the free branch information booklet, please contact Stephen Jones at stephenj1@ iprimus.com.au or 0420 347 997.
Push for Mental Health with Lifeline Tasmania
LIFELINE has invited Tasmanians to take on The Push-Up Challenge in June where funds raised would support critical, lifesaving services across the state.
The 24-day community fundraising initiative has transformed a simple daily activity into a focus on mental health, suicide prevention and connection.
CEO of Lifeline Tasmania Liz Brown said the Push-Up Challenge supported people in moments
of deep distress and crisis.
“The Push-Up Challenge is a way for our community to step into that space in a practical way,” she said.
“It’s not just about talking about mental health, it’s about actively supporting the services that respond when people need them most.”
Participants complete 3,307 pushups to represent 3,307 lives lost to suicide in Australia 2024 and each day includes mental health
facts and prompts designed to encourage reflection and open conversations about mental health. The focus is not on fitness level or performance but on consistent participation over 24 days and participants can modify push-ups, reduce daily targets or choose alternative options.
Teams can be formed within a workplace, school or community group and the challenge will begin on the 3 June.
Members of the Royal Society of St George at a St George’s Day luncheon
The 8th International Fire Behaviour + Fuels Conference at the Hotel Grand Chancellor in Hobart
Banjo’s and Stay ChatTY glaze awareness for mental health
BANJOS Bakery and SPEAK UP! Stay
ChatTY launched their annual statewide partnership to support mental health.
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HOBART & SYDNEY OFFICES
The collaboration has continued to show how small everyday moments can make a difference, this time through a limitededition Stay ChatTY donut, available in stores throughout May.
The initiative has invited Tasmanians to support mental health in a simple but
meaningful way with $1 from every donut sold going directly to SPEAK UP! Stay ChatTY.
Banjo’s chief executive officer Jessica Saxby said the partnership reflected a long-standing commitment to the communities they served.
“Our stores are part of people’s daily routines, places where people connect, catch up and take a moment for themselves,” she said.
“This campaign is about more than just raising funds, it’s about creating spaces where conversations can happen and supporting the wellbeing of our communities across Tasmania.”
SPEAK UP! Stay ChatTY founder Mitch McPherson said the partnership had highlighted the role everyday environments played in supporting mental wellbeing.
“Conversations about mental health don’t just happen because we tell people to have them, they happen when people feel comfortable, supported and safe in the spaces around them,” he said.
“When you bring that into everyday places like Banjo’s, it creates real opportunities for connection and helps normalise conversations in a way that feels natural.”
Customers can support the campaign by purchasing a Stay ChatTY donut or making a contribution in-store.
Every interaction aims to spark conversations to support ongoing mental health initiatives.
Connecting care and community in Hobart
HOBART is set to host the two day Aged & Disability Expo 2026 on 17 to 18 July at Hotel Grand Chancellor. Discover leading
providers, connect with the community, and explore vital services. Free entry for attendees.
Exhibitors, secure your spot to grow your brand and connect with real clients.
Gala Awards Night celebrating excellence.
Pauline Leger (Speak Up), Banjos Gus Lammerding and Mitch McPherson
A
Aged & Disability Expo
Push for expansion of Tasmania’s school lunch program
A summit hosted by School Food Matters involved a discussion around Tasmania’s free school lunch program and accessibility for all Australian children.
Program founder and 2026 Tasmanian Senior Australian of the Year Julie Dunbabin established the School Lunch Program in Tasmania 2020, and has
program had already found improvements in student behaviour and attendance.
“I would like to see a universal school lunch program for all children in Australia,” she said.
“There has been an increase in children attending school because they know there will be a nutritious meal for them
children differently, fostering calmer children who are able to learn better when there’s not that sugar rush happening.”
School Food Matters chief executive Kirsty Grierson said there was much discussion to be had around different models of food delivery in Australian schools.
“We are very passionate about expanding the school lunch program to
still supporting our Tasmanian canteen model and we want to work together,” she said.
“There is momentum building across Australia in this conversation about what a universal school lunch program can provide.
“It ticks a lot of boxes in terms of addressing food insecurity, in terms of preventative
to find out
FROM 18 to 24 May 2026, the Legal Profession
work
• Step inside the Supreme Court in Salamanca for an exclusive after-hours tour
• Take part in a Supreme Court sentencing workshop in Launceston or Hobart
With a diverse program
legal profession, alongside
• Ask questions of an expert panel discussing the current events in the Middle East
• Attend a live panel discussion on AI, Family Law, and Workplace
about what free legal supports are available to you
• Learn about claims for asylum based on sexual orientation under the Refugee Convention, explained by the Tasmanian Refugee Legal Service
• Attend a practical webinar hosted by the Public Trustee on estate planning
Whether you’re looking to learn
2026 18 - 24 May 2026
Executive Officer at School Food Matters Kirsty Grierson, School Lunch Program founder Julie Dunbabin
RED STITCH ACTORS’ THEATRE AND THEATRE ROYAL HOBART PRESENTS
The art of care International Nurses Day: 130 years of care in our communities
Benjamin Jardine, CEO, The District Nurses Tasmania
EACH year on 12 May, International Nurses Day provides a moment to pause and recognise the skill, compassion and dedication of nurses while acknowledging the vital role they play in our communities.
As Chief Executive Officer of The District Nurses, I am incredibly proud to lead an organisation that has been shaped by nurses for 130 years. Their values, professionalism and commitment to care are embedded in who we are and how we work.
The District Nurses traces its origins back to 1896, when the Hobart District Nurses’ Association was formed to provide care to people in their homes. It was one of Australia’s early community nursing organisations, inspired by pioneers such as Florence Nightingale and driven by a simple belief — that people deserve high quality, compassionate care in their own homes and communities.
Many Tasmanians live far from major hospitals, and for generations local communities have come together to advocate, fundraise and care for their own. Community
nursing has long played a vital role in bridging distance and ensuring people can remain safe, supported and connected at home.
While nursing is often associated with hospitals, for many Tasmanians it is the care they receive at home that makes the greatest difference to their health, independence and wellbeing.
Our nurses support people to live safely and independently in the homes they love. Whether it is wound care, medication management, chronic disease support or simply taking the time to listen, they provide professional, compassionate care that is deeply personal and locally embedded.
One of the things I am most proud of is that nursing is not just a function within our organisation, it is part of our DNA. Nurses work across every level of The District Nurses, from the frontline through to senior leadership, administration and even our Board.
As Alison Oakes, our Executive Manager, Clinical & Client Services and a Registered Nurse, explains:
“Community nursing has always
been about more than clinical care. It is about using professional expertise alongside a deep understanding of local communities.
In Tasmania, where distance and isolation can be real barriers, that model of care, built on relationships and trust, is as important today as it was when district nursing first began.”
A visit from a nurse is often about far more than a clinical task. It can be a conversation, a sense of reassurance and a vital human connection, particularly for people
who may otherwise feel isolated.
It is also an opportunity to ensure care plans continue to reflect a person’s changing needs.
Nursing has evolved significantly over time. What began with individuals dedicating themselves to caring for others has become a highly skilled and professional field, requiring advanced education, rigorous accreditation, and ongoing professional development, reflecting the complexity,
responsibility and trust placed in nurses every day.
This year’s International Nurses Day theme focuses on the wellbeing of nurses themselves, reminding us that those who care for others must also be supported to do their work safely and sustainably.
As nursing has changed, so too has The District Nurses. We have grown and adapted to meet the needs of our communities, while keeping care in the home at the centre of everything we do.
From our first nurse, Elizabeth Mezger, to the many nurses who serve our communities today, nursing has always been at the heart of our organisation. In her first year alone, Elizabeth conducted more than 2,425 visits with 120 patients, travelling on foot in all weather — a powerful reminder of the dedication that continues today.
Whether nurse or not, everyone at The District Nurses embraces the spirit of community nursing: locally embedded, personal and
deeply committed to making a difference. International Nurses Day is an opportunity to say thank you and to recognise the importance of continuing to invest in and support our nursing workforce into the future.
I hope you will join me in sharing your thanks for what nurses do for us every day. They are truly part of the glue that holds us together.
Because caring for others isn’t just what we do.
It is who we are.
The District Nurses gather to celebrate International Nurses Day
Unique dementia village is held in high regard
KORONGEE dementia
village is unique in Tasmania, offering a home-like environment instead of an institutional one for people living with dementia.
With a satisfaction rating in the top eight per cent of Australian aged care homes, residents and families love Korongee, which is operated by Glenview Community Services.
Korongee opened in 2020 and transforms dementia care with a small-house model focused on social engagement and independence.
It has 12 houses, each housing eight people, plus a
community centre, hairdresser, barber, gym, general store and café.
Accommodation is available to all, regardless of financial circumstances.
Government subsidies help eligible residents, and the team can discuss flexible financial arrangements to ensure accessibility.
“We were so pleased Mum was able to get into Korongee, it’s the best model of care, much better than what we could do, or that she could do for herself,” A local family said.
Korongee is
architect-designed and purpose-built for people with dementia.
Beautiful gardens with winding paths let villagers walk freely.
Mountain views foster a genuine connection to the area.
The cafe is open 7 days a week and inclusive activities, concerts and exercise classes are offered daily.
This secure facility offers respectful independence and 24/7 professional nursing staff.
Call (03) 6145 6600 to discuss eligibility or book to take a tour.
Or visit www. glenview.org.au
National Walk Safely to School Day returns
PRIMARY school-aged children across Australia will step towards a healthier future on National Walk Safely to School Day, Friday 22 May 2026.
Now in its 27th year, the initiative led by the Pedestrian Council of Australia highlights the health, safety, transport and environmental benefits of walking or using active travel to get
to and from school, not just on Walk Safely to School Day, but every day.
The day encourages positive environmental action, better use of public transport with reduced car-dependency, and encourages parents and carers to walk more, reducing dangerous traffic congestion around schools.
Research also shows
children who are active before school are more focused, more productive and perform better in the classroom.
Pedestrian Council chief executive officer Harold Scruby said walking built lifelong habits while improving safety and wellbeing.
“Walking every day builds confidence, improves concentration and establishes healthy
habits for life while making our roads safer and our air cleaner for everyone,” he said.
“The day also encourages reduced car use, less congestion around schools and greater use of public and active transport.
“Until they are 10, children must always hold the hand of an adult when crossing the road.”
Bird of the month
Spotting the Pardalote in Hobart
To book a tour or check eligibility, call 6145 6600 or visit www.glenview.org.au
IF you’ve noticed a tiny bird darting through your backyard or heard a sharp, repetitive call from the treetops, you may have encountered one of Hobart’s smallest residents, the Spotted Pardalote.
Often overshadowed by its rarer relative, the endangered Forty-spotted Pardalote, this common cousin is far more likely to be seen around suburban gardens and bushland across southern
Tasmania.
Measuring just 8 to 10 centimetres long, the Spotted Pardalote is a compact and energetic bird, known for its striking black-and-white spotted wings, bright yellow throat and red rump.
Despite its small size, it is surprisingly easy to spot once you know what to look for.
Around Hobart, the species can regularly be seen in locations such
as Knocklofty Reserve, Bicentennial Park and the Queens Domain, as well as in backyard gardens where native trees are present.
Spotted Pardalotes spend much of their time foraging for insects high in the canopy, picking lerps and other small prey from eucalyptus leaves.
Their constant movement and distinctive call often give them away before they are seen.
Unlike many birds,
they nest in tunnels, often digging burrows into banks or occasionally using unusual spots such as garden soil or roadside cuttings.
While their endangered cousin relies heavily on specific habitats, the Spotted Pardalote has adapted well to urban environments, making it one of the more accessible native birds for Hobart residents to observe.
Korongee residents before the 2026 Summer Dance. Photo credit: Alison Windmill.
Tasmanian students participating in National Walk Safely to School Day in 2025
Please help kitties just like Roni
By Phoebe Ody – Ten Lives Volunteer Creative Team
WHEN three month old Roni (pronounced ‘row-knee’) arrived at Ten Lives with her siblings Mac and Cheese in February, she needed help.
Sneezing and feverish with the flu, Roni also had issues with her eyes. They were severely small, abnormally developed and inflamed by conjunctivitis.
She couldn’t see at all.
It turned out Roni had a condition called microphthalmia, meaning “small eyes”.
recovered from the flu, and even her conjunctivitis had cleared up.
A follow-up examination showed that she could see.
Despite all of this, Roni was sweet and incredibly brave in our care.
Her friendly personality shone through.
Roni was placed into foster care to recover from the flu. But we knew she would need more treatment done down the line for her eyes.
Of her three siblings, Roni was the most outgoing and affection in foster care.
Her condition didn’t dampen her spark.
It’s a congenital condition (present at or before birth) that results in eyes that are underdeveloped. She also had entropion, where the eyelids roll inward.
By early March, Roni had
While her eyesight was limited, she could track movement and follow people around.
It was then time for surgery to correct her inward-rolling eyelids.
The procedure was a success and Roni returned to her foster carer wearing an Elizabethan collar (or ‘cone of shame’) to prevent her from scratching.
In the weeks that followed, Roni underwent two more eye surgeries to further improve her condition, both of which went well.
Her recovery was smooth, and throughout it all she showed everyone just how cuddly and bubbly she was.
Thanks to the incredible work of the Ten Lives team, Roni can now see and live comfortably.
By mid-April, she was finally ready to move to the adoption rooms.
Her unique eyes immediately captured the attention of everyone who met her, but it was her sweet personality that won people over.
One of our volunteer photographers, Diane Nicholson, described Roni as ‘the happiest cat in the world’.
Spending time with Roni
is guaranteed to put a smile on your face.
She loves to play, purr and roll around.
One of her signature moves is rolling onto her back, paws in the air, waiting for tummy rubs to begin.
Whoever welcomes Roni into their family will be incredibly lucky.
Stories like Roni’s remind us why we do what we do and why we’ll always be ready for the next challenge.
Being ready for the next Roni takes preparation and support.
Help us be there for the next cat in need.
Donate now at tenlives. com.au/donate
Ten Lives resident Roni
Working It Out invites you to make this your year to volunteer
NATIONAL Volunteer week is a time to recognise the contributions and dedication of our fabulous volunteers across Lutruwita, Tasmania, who contribute so much to our programs, services and organisation.
As the statewide sexuality, gender and intersex support, education and advocacy service, Working It Out (WIO) sends a heartfelt thank you for your time and commitment in working to create more connected and inclusive communities.
Founded in 1998, WIO has a vision of a just and inclusive society that celebrates people of diverse sexualities, sex characteristics and gender identities.
Volunteers sharing their lived-experience, perspectives and learnings with others and lending support takes both generosity and courage, and this value cannot be understated.
Working It Out has TWO volunteer
programs that are actively seeking volunteers and we’d love to hear from you. Make this your year to volunteer! No experience is required, you simply have to be 18 or older, part of the LGBTIQA+ community in Tasmania and be interested in expanding your sphere and someone else’s through a formal social connection program.
Rainbow Connections is an Aged Care Volunteer Visitors Scheme (ACVVS) that trains and supports volunteer visitors to share time, conversation and stories with older LGBTIQA+ members of our communities who are receiving aged care support (either at home or in residential aged care settings), building friendship and community connection.
Participants are confidentially matched and can connect over the phone, write to each other on email or meet face-to-face, whichever feels most comfortable.
Imagine the difference it makes to an older member of our rainbow community to build be able to feel supported, safe and seen.
Working It Out
Together is a social support program that matches volunteers with LGBTIQA+ people 18+ who are feeling isolated and want to connect with their communities.
Matches can spend time on a whole range of activities, from phone checks-ins to attending community events together.
We encourage signups from all members of the LGBTIQA+ community and are open to adapting roles to suit the needs of all volunteers.
We do ask for openness to commit to a 6-month period with the projects.
If you have questions, access needs, or limited availability, please get in touch so we can find the right volunteer role for you. It’s an incredibly rewarding experience.
When Strength Quietly Slips — And What You Can Do About It
Most people don’t notice the moment their strength begins to change. It doesn’t happen all at once. It’s gradual.
A little hesitation stepping off a curb.
Reaching overhead with less confidence. Taking the stairs more carefully than you used to.
These small shifts are easy to dismiss, but over time they can start to shape how you move, what you do, and how confident you feel in your own body.
In Hobart, where lifestyle is built around movement — walking tracks, gardening, travel, and time with family — maintaining strength and balance is not just about fitness. It’s about continuing to live life on your terms.
Strength Is More
Than Muscle
Strength is not just about muscle.
It includes:
• Bone strength
• Balance and coordination
• Stability
• Confidence in movement
As these begin to change, stability declines — and with it, the risk of falls increases.
For many Australians, particularly later in life, a fall is not just an event. It can be a turning point.
The key point is this: while common, this decline is not inevitable.
A More Targeted Approach
Traditional strength training often relies on:
• High repetition
• Fatigue-based exercise
• Busy gym environments
For many people — particularly those managing injury, chronic conditions, or simply not suited to gyms — these approaches don’t
always work.
OsteoStrong Hobart offers something different.
It represents a meeting point between modern science and specialised technology, designed to stimulate bone, muscle, and balance systems in a precise and controlled way.
This is not about doing more.
It’s about applying the right stimulus to create a meaningful response.
Once Per Week.
Highly Targeted.
Members attend once per week, working oneon-one with a trained coach.
Using specialised osteogenic loading equipment, the body is positioned safely to allow controlled force to be applied through the skeleton.
This is not traditional weight training. There is no high repetition or
exhaustion.
Instead, the aim is to trigger the body’s natural adaptive response — supporting improvements in:
• Bone density
• Strength
• Balance and stability
Sessions are brief, structured, and accessible across a wide range of ages and abilities.
Measurable Progress
One of the most powerful aspects of this approach is that progress can be tracked. Members commonly experience:
• Consistent improvements in strength
• Better balance and coordination
• Increased confidence in everyday movement
Many also monitor bone density over time, often in conjunction
with their GP.
Locally in Hobart, the feedback has been consistent — people feel stronger, more stable, and more capable in their day-to-day lives.
Rebuilding and Maintaining Capability
For some, this is about staying ahead of decline.
For others, it’s about rebuilding after:
• Injury
• Surgery
• Periods of inactivity
• Chronic conditions
There is also growing interest from those managing chronic pain, reduced mobility, or neurological conditions affecting movement.
In these situations, the focus is not on pushing harder, but on working in a structured and supported way within the body’s capacity.
A Considered Investment
There is a cost to participation, and that is acknowledged.
However, many members view this not as a gym expense, but as a targeted investment in their long-term health.
With one-on-one coaching, structured sessions, and measurable outcomes, the value lies in what it helps preserve — strength, mobility, and independence.
Something You Need to Experience
Because this approach is so different to anything else currently available in Tasmania, it is difficult to fully explain.
It’s something that needs to be experienced.
OsteoStrong Hobart offers Discovery Sessions where people can:
• Experience
the equipment firsthand
• Understand how the body responds
• Learn the science behind the approach
• Explore whether it fits their health journey
For many, it changes how they think about strength entirely.
A Simple Starting Point
If you’ve noticed changes in your strength, balance, or confidence — or if you simply want to take a more proactive approach to your long-term health — this may be worth exploring.
Because strength doesn’t disappear overnight.
And with the right stimulus, it can be rebuilt. Come and “Discover” what we can offer.
OsteoStrong wellness centre in Hobart
Home is where your story continues
FOR Bill and Mary, home isn’t just a place, it’s more than 20 years of memories, routines and a life built together.
Like many older Australians, staying in that home on their own terms is what matters most. When Mary underwent knee surgery, the small everyday tasks became harder. Not the big things, just the quiet rhythm of daily life like making the bed, keeping the house in order and staying on top of things. They didn’t want their
lifestyle to change. They just needed a little help to keep it flowing. That’s where Respect Support at Home came in.
For Bill and Mary, home care wasn’t about handing things over. It was about filling the gaps, getting
practical support to keep their confidence and independence intact. With a carer who understood their routines and respected the way they liked things done, life continued much as it always had.
Respect caregivers
Support at Home
Maintain independence with support that works with you
Why choose Respect Support at Home?
Personalised care that fits your life
Trusted, local, compassionate carers Support that grows with you Independence, dignity and peace of mind
“Respect will always be there to look after you.” - Barbara, Respect Support at Home Client
Considering Support at Home for the first time, or seeking a better standard of care? Choose Respect. The best care, no matter where.
Maintain your independence with care that works alongside you. Our caregivers take the time to understand your routines and preferences, offering practical support where it helps most. The focus is on building confidence, preserving everyday routines, and ensuring you stay in control - at home, on your terms. respect.com.au 1300 144 144
live and work in your community, they understand what matters to the people in it. Consistent, familiar faces and reliable support and the kind of care that fits around your life, not the other way around.
As Bill and Mary put it, their support was there to fill the gaps and help us stay confident and independent in our home.
Whether you’re navigating a change in health or simply want extra reassurance, Respect is here to help you keep living the life you love. The best care, no matter where.
If you’re considering Support at Home for the first time, or looking for a better standard of care, choose Respect –1300 144 144.
Respect Aged Care Support at Home clients Mary and Bill
congratulates all students who received awards at the Awards Presentation Evening for 2025 Achievers
PH Mitchell Prize for Dux of Hobart College
Dihansa Udawatta
Principal’s Awards for Academic Excellence
Presented to students who received a Tertiary Entrance Score of 100 or above:
Lola Alexander, Zoe Anderson McKinnon, Jenna Aschmann, Esme Babiak, Omar Birch, Freja Boocock, Mariana Brito Carvalheiro, Max Callahan,Amala Chabot, Zane Chamberlain, Emily Chappell, Samuel Clark, Fraser Conry, Charlotte Cook, Jessica Craig, Eva Dalla-Fontana, Nhat Quang Dao, Molly Darmody, Asher De Vries, Eliana De Weys, Thea Dobie, Hou Zhi Dong, James Downes, Iola Fleming, Isobel Gaggin, Michael Garrad, Claudia Goddard, Noah Green, Madeleine Hall, Amber Harwin, Thomas Henderson, Jess Horstman, Willa Johnson, Maddison Kemp, Edward Kidd, Priyannika Kumrai, Daniella Kwee, Edward Lawrence, Evie Lester, Haruna Lillecrapp, Yancheng Liu, Liam Ludlow, Talia Lynch, Nathasha Mather, Daniel Munnings, Zachary Murphy, Hanbo Niu, Caeden O’Connor, Phoebe Overton, Sophie Overton, Harry Page, Evangeline Palmese, Verena Peach, Grant Phillips, Jacob Potter, Daniel Rando, Theodore Richardson, Melody Sii, Evie Smith, Ruby Smith, Joseph Solari, Jack Strutton, Niko Strutton, Jasmine Taylor, Jazmine Taylor, Stella Taylor, Eric Thomas, Hannah Turnbull, Dihansa Udawatta, Jules Van Alem, Suzanna Verdouw, Josie Waller, Madeleine Wapstra, Harry Watson, Maya Wedd, Oliver Wilson, Bowen Wu, Finn Wylie, Somony Yen, Tong Zhang and Ellen Wei..
Prizes and Scholarships
HV Biggins Exhibition for Year 11 Dux
Old Hobartian Association Prizes for Scholarship, Sportsmanship & Character (Year 11)
Old Hobartian Association Prizes for Scholarship, Sportsmanship & Character (Year 12)
Old Hobartian Centenary UTAS Scholarships
The Tall Foundation Tasmania University Scholarship
Roger and Maxeme Tall Scholarship
Rotary Club of Salamanca Achievement Scholarship
ADF Long Tan Leadership & Teamwork Award (Year 12)
ADF Future Innovator’s Award
Ampol Award for Best All-Rounders
TM Siedler Emerging Leader Award
Sue Farquhar Photography Prize
Iain MacDonald Prize for Art
Dr Wayne Brookes “Damn Fine Colouring in Prize”
TASC Examiner’s Choice for Art Studio Practice
GE Morris Prize for Music
Outstanding Contribution to Performing Arts Prize
Oliver Wilson English Prize
PF Davidson History Prize
Wayne Sutton Geography and the Environment Prize
Bronwen Bowman Award for Application and Achievement
Outstanding Contribution to Sport and Recreation
Old Hobartian Association Gerlach Memorial Prize - English & Humanities
Old Hobartian Association Gerlach Memorial Prize - Science & Mathematics
Rex Wilson Outstanding Academic Achievement Award
Environmental Champion Award
Minister for Education, Children and Youth Respectful Student Award
O’Shannessey Award for Service to the College
Heidi Chan International Fellowship Award
Oustanding Achievement Award for International Students
TASC Award for Outstanding Academic Achievement
(Awarded to students who attained Tasmania’s highest academic results with an Australian Tertiary Admission rank (ATAR) of 99.5 or above)
TASC Award for Outstanding Achievement in VET
(Awarded to students from across Tasmania who demonstrated excellence in their VET programs):
Certificate II in Community Services (Children Services)
Certificate II in Community Services (Children Services)
Certificate II in Music
Certificate II in Tourism
Certificate II in Cookery
Certificate III in Screen and Media
Certificate III in Screen and Media
Ellen Wei
Simon MacFarlane, Sarah Wastell, Eva Thomas, Wellington Adams, Tango Coull & Thomas Coward
Sunil Welling, Ruby Smith, Harry Watson, Jasmine Taylor, Zane Chamberlain & Iola Fleming
Maya Wedd & Somony Yen
Jazmine Taylor
Vienna Fletcher, Dustin Smith, Olivia Muir & Eva Davidson
Xuan Tran
Ruby Smith
James Downes
Harry Watson & Iola Fleming
Hamish Grant
Aria Nichols
Natasha Mather
Tango Coull
Madeleine Hall
Austin Dickinson
Mia Fairlie
Lucy Lewincamp
Molly Darmody
Sophia Bakker-Ness
Vienna Fletcher
Harry Page
Esme Babiak
Zane Chamberlain
Suzanna Verdouw, Madeleine Wapstra, Jessica Craig & Yanchen Liu
Jasmine Taylor & Indigo Lewis
Jess Horstman & Jessica Hurd
Finn Wylie & Evie Lester
Chi Dan Tran
Nhat Quang Dao
Dihansa Udawatta, Suzanna Verdouw, Zane Chamberlain, James Downes, Joseph Solari, Madeleine Wapstra, Jessica Craig, Yancheng Liu & Harry Watson
Abigail Blundell
Samantha Watts
Jacuan Newell
Brilee Lovell
Jack Munaghan Trim
Yana de Silva
Eric Thomas
Thank you to our generous sponsors
Senator the Honourable Carol Brown, Senator the Honourable Claire Chandler, Senator the Honourable Richard Dowling, Senator the Honourable Nick McKim, The Honourable Julie Collins MP, Andrew Wilkie MP, The Honourable Jo Palmer MLC, The Honourable Meg Webb MLC, The Honourable Eric Abetz MP, The Honourable Madeleine Ogilvie MP, The Honourable Josh Willie MP, Vica Bayley MP, Helen Burnet MP, Ella Haddad MP, David O’Byrne MP, Marcus Vermey MP, Dean Winter MP, Rotary Club of Salamanca, Old Hobartians Association The Tall Foundation (Roger and Maxeme Tall), Australian Defence Force, Heidi Chan Fellowship, Tracy Siedler, Canon Australia, The Carpet Company, Hobart Book Shop, TasVend & GK Productions
Hobart College Department for Education, Children and Young People
Excellence recognised at annual college awards
HOBART College’s Awards Evening, held on Wednesday 1 April, offered more than a roll call of high achievers.
It was an evening that captured the spirit of aspiration and purpose that defines the College community, bringing together students, families, staff and community guests to reflect on the value of commitment and contribution. With more than 250 awards presented, the evening recognised excellence across academic study, vocational pathways, leadership, service, culture and sport. Each award told a story of perseverance; of students who had not only met expectations but exceeded them through
sustained effort and personal growth. Collectively, they painted a picture of a learning community deeply invested in both individual achievement and shared responsibility.
Hobart College Principal, Dr Libby Robinson, spoke about the character behind success. She highlighted that the students being
acknowledged had demonstrated resilience, integrity and empathy, qualities increasingly vital in a rapidly changing world.
Dr Robinson reinforced the College’s belief that education is not simply about results, but about developing young adults who are prepared to lead, contribute and adapt with confidence.
The Occasional Address was presented by Hobart College alumnus Dr Robert Hortle, Rhodes Scholar and Deputy Director of the Tasmanian Policy Exchange at the University of Tasmania. Drawing on his own academic pathway, Dr Hortle urged students to think boldly about their futures and to value intellectual curiosity and
disciplined thinking. His remarks emphasised that genuine excellence develops through persistence, deep engagement with ideas and a strong sense of purpose.
Hobart College’s strong reputation for both academic achievement and high-quality vocational education and training was clearly reflected
throughout the evening. The diversity of awards underscored the many pathways to success available to students, reinforcing the College’s commitment to preparing young people for a broad range of future opportunities.
For the full list of award winners and sponsors visit https://hobartcollege. education.tas.edu.au
Hobart College Principal Dr Libby Robinson congratulating Ampol Best All Rounder Lola Fleming. Photo credit: Donna Bergshoeff
Hobart College Award winners and families
Nhat Quang Dao, winner of the Outstanding Achievement Award for International Students (Sponsored by the Honourable Meg Webb MLC Photo credit: Donna Bergshoeff)
Zane Chamberlain winner of the OHA Gerlach Memorial Prize - Science and Mathematics (Sponsored by the Honourable Eric Abetz MP) Photo credit: Donna Bergshoeff)
Hadley’s Art Prize finalists announced
FINALISTS have been announced for the 2026 Hadley’s Art Prize, with 27 contemporary Australian artists selected for the prestigious $100,000 acquisitive landscape award.
The annual prize, held at Hadley’s Orient Hotel in Hobart, continues to attract a diverse mix of emerging and established artists from across the country, working across mediums including painting, printmaking and photography.
This year’s selection reflects a wide range of interpretations of the Australian landscape, from traditional depictions of place to more conceptual explorations of identity, memory and connection to Country.
Among the finalists are well-known artists such as Ken Done, alongside emerging voices including Mia Boe and Kelsey Ashe.
Indigenous artists also feature strongly, with works that explore cultural knowledge, history and the relationship between people and land.
Curator Dr Amy Jackett said the exhibition offered visitors a chance to engage with a broad cross-section of contemporary Australian practice.
“This year’s finalists reflect the wonderful diversity of contemporary Australian landscape art,” she said.
The finalists’ works will be exhibited at the hotel from 1 to 23 August, with the winner to be announced on 31 July.
Alongside the major prize, a range of additional awards will be presented, including a residency prize, people’s choice award and student prizes.
Entry to the exhibition is free, with artworks available for sale.
Harrison Bowe - A Humbling Insignificance
Julian Meagher - ‘First light over Cuttagee #2’
Betty Campbell - Minymaku Inma
Ken Done - Emerald coral
Luke Wagner - Steady Air
George Kennedy - Before The Rain
Alice Mannheim - Log it!
Grace Gladdish - Entanglement
Todd Simpson - ‘Where light settles’
Moving
house just got a whole lot easier
WITH new keys in hand and spaces to make your own, moving house is a time for fresh starts.
It’s about unpacking boxes, settling in and slowly ticking off to-do lists.
To help celebrate your new address, Aurora Energy is offering aurora+ customers a special housewarming gift, with one weekend
of free electricity thanks to Power Hours. How does it work?
After you’ve moved in and connected your electricity with Aurora Energy, simply download and activate the aurora+ app at no extra cost.
The aurora+ app unlocks information on how much power you use each day, hassle
free payments options, solar tracking and free electricity with Power Hours.
Once you’re all set up, choose a weekend time slot within a month of moving in and any electricity you use during that period is free.
There’s no complicated setup or fine print to navigate.
You pick the weekend that suits you best and Power Hours takes care of the rest.
More than just free power, Power Hours is Aurora Energy’s broader approach to making energy easy by giving customers more control and more value.
Aurora Energy chief customer officer Will Barbour said Power
Hours used advanced meter technology to help customers plan their electricity use around their lifestyle.
“That might mean saving your biggest household jobs for your Power Hours weekend, throwing a housewarming party, or simply enjoying free electricity while you settle into your new
home” he said.
Aurora Energy has long been committed to supporting Tasmanians and this latest offering helps ease some of the stress that often comes with moving house.
With cost-of-living pressures on the rise, Mr Barbour encouraged Tasmanians to take an active role in managing their electricity costs.
“Households can make further savings by shifting electricity usage to off-peak periods with tariff 93, setting up direct debit to receive discounts, and using digital tools like aurora+ for greater visibility of their energy consumption,” he said. To learn more, visit auroraenergy.com.au
Moving house just got a whole lot easier with Power Hours
Moving well with care and support
AT 78, Paul Stringer is learning that listening to your body matters.
“Looking back, maybe I overdid it,” Mr Stringer said.
Mr Stringer now attends regular sessions at Uniting AgeWell’s Community Hub in Rosny Park with Jackson Cockerill, an exercise physiologist who has tailored a program to
support Paul’s sore knees, both replaced a decade ago but now troubling him again.
“They’re nice to everyone here, not just me,” Mr Stringer said.
Mr Stringer has always been active and independent.
He worked as a baker, parking inspector and bus driver around Hobart for more than 20 years,
and played cricket and squash, cycled and spent plenty of time on the footy field.
He played backline for country teams across Tasmania and even came out of retirement at 36 to help when Lauderdale started its own team:
“They just kept getting smashed and I couldn’t bear it,” Mr Stringer said.
When his body stopped cooperating, Mr Stringer found it frustrating, like a betrayal after a lifetime of getting back up after a fall.
Mr Stringer said seeking support wasn’t on his radar.
“Some of the places I’ve been involved with have been a bit insensitive,” he said.
“So I tried to manage
it myself.”
After his first knee replacement, he set up a stationary bike trainer and pushed through the pain until he could ride again, eventually cycling early mornings between Glenorchy, Hobart Airport and Lauderdale.
Later, heavier traffic saw him retire the bike.
He still walks and has tried swimming, but he prefers wading at the beach for the view when it’s warm enough.
His daughter could see how important staying active was for his health, wellbeing and independence and that his history of sports injuries might need a specialised approach.
She contacted Uniting AgeWell, and Mr Stringer began working with Jackson about six months ago through the government subsidised Commonwealth Home Support Program.
Mr Stringer is picked up and dropped off at the Community Hub by taxi while his daughter is at work.
After his session, he can stay for a coffee and a chat.
He also trains alongside other older people who use the Hub to access services including physiotherapy and occupational therapy, group exercise programs, the specialised AgeWell gym, social support programs and an inhouse home care team who provide guidance with Support at Home packages.
With regular support, Mr Stringer can track his improvements week to week and feels more confident he can stay in his own home for as long as he chooses.
Like many older Australians, Mr Stringer said he was wary of losing independence as his body aged.
“You just feel useless when you can’t move how you want to,” he said.
“Now I’m learning not just how to move, but to move well for my age and stage of life.
“You used to just put a knee brace on, a bandage and go and play anyway.
“Now I am learning to do it bit by bit.”
Staying active, connected and independent matters as you age. Uniting AgeWell will host free MoveWell events at its Community Hub in Rosny Park throughout May.
Try yoga, balance, strength and mobility classes, join a relaxed social group session, or attend an information session about supports to keep you living well at home.
Places are limited and bookings essential. For details visit www. unitingagewell.org/ events or call 03 6240 8700.
Paul Stringer, 78, moving through a guided exercise session with exercise physiologist Jackson Cockerill at the Uniting AgeWell Community Hub in Rosny Park. Photo credit: Dave Groves.
Old Scholars Football Association launches Pink Socks Appeal
THE Old Scholars Football Association
launched its Pink Socks Appeal raising funds for Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA).
Each club will host a dedicated Pink Socks round during which senior men’s players pull on the pink socks. All funds will be pooled and donated to BCNA at the end of the season.
across the 2026 season.
All six clubs will take part in the initiative which will stretch
Old Scholars Football Association president Tony Freeman said the league met with executives and decided to make the initiative league wide.
“The league is
local, legendary and live and we have this great spot in Tasmania which has created the ideal situation to raise awareness as a community-based football league,” he said.
DOSA Football Club team representative Ewan Bacon said his mum passed away from cancer in 2022.
“I have a lot of family history at the club and my dad played here so it was an easy decision
for me to come to this club and everyone has rallied around me and my family,” he said.
“It’s not just about us but every family who might be suffering with a sick loved one or someone who has passed away.
“It’s great to be part of something bigger than just football where we all come together to show some grit which is great for the community.”
Sandy Bay Croquet Club encourages kids to play
THE Sandy Bay Croquet Club has encouraged young people to partake in a game of croquet whether that’s in a group, a social activity or a desire to learn how to play.
The club hosts corporate bookings for businesses to work on team building and regularly accommodates school groups.
With more than 100 members the club is one of the biggest in southern Tasmania and has fostered the development of professional players who recently competed at the under 21 Australian Championships.
Secretary Alicia Groves said croquet was a game that combines strategy,
precision and social interaction.
“We love hosting school groups and corporate bookings for business to bring their staff along,” she said.
“The game is dynamic and whether you want to play a social game or be competitive, we encourage younger people to give it a go.
“Our club is popular, and a lot of people choose to come here over other clubs because it’s a friendly atmosphere, its welcoming and our group is so diverse.”
The club is open every day and there is an opportunity to come and try every first Friday of the month.
Representatives from the Old Scholars Football Association and Hobart Pathology Laboratory Manager Sheridan Heathcote promoting the Pink Socks Appeal