Hobart Observer July 2020

A FREE PUBLICATION FOR THE HOBART MUNICIPALITY

JULY 2020

Independently owned and published by Corporate Communications (Tas) Pty Ltd

COMFORT BEARS FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES IN ISO From left, Grace Holliday and Chloe Moore have been sewing ISO cuddle bears to give to people living with a disability.

$55 MILLION FULL STORY PAGE 4

Tasman Private Hospital and Medical Centre

PLANS by national short stay hospital specialist Nexus Hospitals to develop a privately-funded $55 million medical facility in New Town Road have been formally advertised.

Nexus chief executive officer Andrew

Petering said the company had lodged a new Development Application with the Hobart City Council in April after significant consultation with council officers and nearby residents. “While the

STORY CONTINUES PAGE 2

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2 Hobart Observer July 2020

Community News

$55 million Tasman Private Hospital and Medical Centre update

Artist impressions of the proposed private hospital and medical centre.

FROMT FRONT PAGE

amended design retains the purpose and function of the original development, we have made substantial alterations and improvements in line with feedback received,” he said.

These changes include: • Increased building setbacks from residential boundaries with the building stepping further back as it increases in height.

• Public and staff carparking for 236 vehicles within two fully enclosed basement parking levels.

• Redesign of the building facades to reduce the visual bulk

Elise

Archer Your local Liberal Member for Clark

If you need support or assistance please contact my electorate office.

at upper levels and break it up into smaller elements that enhance compatibility with the surrounding streetscape.

• Improved public accessibility and amenity from New Town Road.

• Increased landscaping, especially to the boundaries of the adjacent residential zone, including provision of established large trees to provide amenity and a buffer to residential buildings.

• Reduced overshadowing and visual impact for adjacent residential

buildings.

The “shovel ready” project is a joint venture between Nexus Hospitals and the Contact Group, a Tasmanian family-owned construction business, and is expected to create 180 jobs during construction.

Comprising an acute surgical hospital with six operating theatres and a 24 bed overnight ward for in-patient care, Tasman Private Hospital and Medical Centre will be co-located with related health service providers, including general practice, pharmacy, radiology,

pathology, health support services and conference and research facilities.

Mr Petering said in its communication with the medical profession in Hobart, Nexus had been advised that this “one stop shop” approach was both best practice and vital for Hobart to keep up with national health trends.

“We have worked closely with doctors and nurses to design a facility that will be world class in delivering the highest possible care and convenience for patients,” he said.

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“We believe the development has broad support from the local medical profession and the growing southern Tasmanian community.”

Mr Petering said there would not be an emergency department so ambulance and other after hours traffic would be minimal or non-existent and there would be no after-hours admissions.

The hospital is expected to employ more than 130 staff, with further employment opportunities within the medical hub.

FINANCE

PAGE 8 - 9

PRIME TIMES

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REGULAR MONTHLY FEATURES • • •

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Hobart Observer July 2020 3

Community News

Juicy donations help those doing it tough HOBART City Mission’s Emergency Relief food program received a welcome boost with Tasmanian beverage company Juicy Isle Beverages donating close to $50,000 worth of juice products.

The 25,000 bottles of juice will be handed out to people doing it tough in southern Tasmania as part of the Emergency Relief program, which provides food packs of pantry staples and other donated goods to people struggling to make ends meet.

Juicy Isle state sales manager Michael Francis said the decision to donate was made given the way the community had come together through the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Juicy Isle is Tasmanian and we employ Tasmanians,” he said.

“We source our Hartz spring water, our berries and apples from local Tasmania suppliers and growers and we have loyal local customers and consumers who support us.

“Donating 25,000 bottles of our juice products to support those community members who are doing it tough at the moment was an easy choice to make.

“If ever there is a time for Tasmanians to support each other it’s now, and Juicy Isle is pleased we are able to jump on board.”

Hobart City Mission chief executive officer John Stubley said the juice bottles were an exciting alternative to the normal food packs that were distributed through the Emergency Relief program.

“It is nice to hand out a treat which is more than pure sustenance, something to make it a little bit more pleasant to sit down to have a meal and a drink,” he said.

“It’s really easy for us to take for granted having a cup of coffee or a bottle of orange juice, so to have something like this is really special for someone who is doing it

From left, Hobart City Mission chief executive officer John Stubley and Juicy Isle state manager Michael Francis.

really tough.

“It’s something out of the ordinary that can brighten someone’s day.”

Mr Stubley said they had seen a lot of support from businesses and the community over the last few months, including Ashgrove Milk who committed to provide fresh milk to Hobart’s homeless population through the Safe Space program.

“It’s really easy to become disconnected from community, society, family and friends, which is the situation with a lot of people who are sleeping rough,” he said.

“They feel the world has left them behind, no one cares about them, so these little luxuries in life shows and reminds them that someone does really care about them and their plight, so it’s really quite special.”

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4 Hobart Observer July 2020

Community News

Comfort bears for people with disabilities in ISO

Grace Holliday making the ISO bears.

FROM FRONT PAGE

GRACE Holliday and Chloe Moore have used their time in isolation to sew ISO cuddle bears to give to people living with disability who are still isolating because they’re at increased risk from COVID-19.

Eleven-year-old Grace and 12-year-old Chloe met through sewing lessons at Frangipani Fabrics in North Hobart

and later made plans for the ISO bears project via ZOOM. They donated the materials for the bears themselves.

“It’s been a hard time for people and I wanted to do something to help,” Grace said.

“I thought of the ISO cuddle bears because my siblings and I have special toys that we use for comfort when we’re feeling sad or anxious about COVID-19.”

Each handmade bear had a canvas belly and came with a fabric marker so it could be named or personalised.

The bears also came with an adoption certificate and a special message from the two friends.

Chloe attended the sewing lessons as

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part of Li-Ve Tasmania’s program for siblings of children with disabilities, as her younger brother Lochie was supported

by Li-Ve Tasmania.

Lochie was still isolating because of his disability and health conditions.

“I was really excited when Grace asked me to help sew bears,” Chloe said.

“We’ve been isolated at home for a long time to protect Lochie and losing his routine has made it really hard for him to sleep.

“I’m hoping the bears will bring comfort for other people struggling with things like that.

“It’s been great to keep busy by doing something positive and I love sewing.”

Chloe and Grace have made 30 bears so far and are planning about what they can make next.

The bears are available free to any household with a person supported by Li-Ve Tasmania as part of the organisation’s COVID-19 Boredom Buster Bags project.

“Chloe and Grace have driven this project themselves and made a genuine difference for the people we support,” Li-Ve Tasmania chief executive officer Darren Mathewson said.

“COVID-19 has brought some big challenges, but great things can happen when people respond with kindness and creativity.”

Li-Ve Tasmania has been providing genuine, person-centred support to people living with disability in Tasmania for almost 70 years.

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Funding boost for artists and creatives

From left, Minister for the Arts and local Liberal Member for Clark Elise Archer, with Van Dieman’s Band members Julia Fredersdorff, Jennifer Owen, Martin, Penicka and William Nebwery.

MORE than 70 Tasmanian artists and creative organisations will share in more than $1.5 million in State Government funding through its arts, screen and music funds.

Among those that received funding for the first stage of the Cultural and Creative Industries Stimulus Package was the Van Diemen’s Band.

The Van Diemen’s Band received $36,000 in funding for a new music project tilted ‘The Song of the Birds’ in collaboration with the Youth Chorale of the Tasmanian Youth Orchestra and screen technology manufacturer Ignite Digi.

Van Diemen’s Band founder Julia Fredersdorff said the funding was a huge boost for the group.

“It’s very hard to be creative when you don’t know the next time you’ll perform is going to be,” she said.

“We are so grateful to the State Government and Arts Minister Elise Archer for providing this important stimulus to a sector that has been hit hard by the pandemic.”

Minister for the Arts and local Liberal Member for Clark Elise Archer said the funds would assist the state’s cultural and creative industries through the challenging times faced as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“I am delighted that we are now delivering the new funding of $1.5 million and bringing

forward $2 million of previously announced funding to assist the individuals and organisations within Tasmania’s renowned cultural and creative sector,” she said.

The new $1.5 million funding package included an ‘Arts and Screen Digital Production Fund’, a ‘Tasmanian Contemporary Music Fund’ and an ‘Additional Screen

Development Round’.

Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, the cultural and creative sector contributed $179 million to the Tasmanian economy, and directly employed more than 5000 Tasmanians.

“More importantly, our cultural and creative industries are a crucial facilitator of social and mental health and

wellbeing for Tasmanians – an essential element both during and post the COVID-19 pandemic,” Ms Archer said.

“The cultural and creative industries are a vital part of our way of life in Tasmania and our Government is committed to preserving and supporting the sector so we emerge an even stronger creative state.”

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Hobart Observer July 2020 5

Community News

From left, Senator Eric Abetz and Alderman Simon Behrakis inspect the site at Athleen Avenue to be funded from the City’s 2019/20 Roads to Recover grant funds.

Hydro Tasmania dresses community for success

Roads to Recovery for Hobart residents LOCAL road maintenance in the City of Hobart will receive a funding boost under the Federal Liberal Government’s Roads to Recovery Program.

Local Liberal Senator Eric Abetz said $3,425,600 would be allocated between 2019/20 to 2023/24 to allow Hobart Council to progress a number of high-priority projects, using local knowledge to deliver the best local roads.

“The Federal Government is committed to getting Australians home sooner and safer, no matter where they live,” he said.

“We are investing in infrastructure right across the country to lay the foundations for economic recovery on the other side of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Helping local councils maintain and

improve roads under their jurisdiction is a big part of that.”

“I’m pleased that the Government has been able to increase the allocation for the Roads to Recovery Program nationwide and the residents of Hobart will be the beneficiaries of more than $3 million over the next four years,” Senator Abetz said.

The Australian Government will provide more than $190 million to 332 local government authorities nationwide for safer and better maintained roads.

The Government has committed an additional $100 million per year to the Roads to Recovery Program from 2019–20, as part of the Local and State Government Road Safety Package announced in the 2019–20 Budget.

From left, Dress for Success manager Amanda French and Hydro Tasmania engagement program manager Sarah Metcalf.

HYDRO Tasmania has stepped up to support the community through the economic and social impacts of COVID-19 with its annual Community Grant Program as well as a new series of COVID-19 Community Grants.

This year’s Community Grant Program was Hydro Tasmania’s largest round yet, with up to $5000 provided to 11 recipients, all of them either small community or volunteer groups and not-for-profit organisations active across Tasmania.

Among those receiving a grant was Hobart based Dress for Success,

which aims to empower disadvantaged women to achieve economic independence by providing professional attire, and training through a number of workshops.

“Dress for Success was only established November last year, so this grant is going to help get our career workshops up and running,” Dress for Success manager Amanda French.

“These workshops will be delivered both online and face-to-face so we can meet the needs of all people in our community.”

Ms French said she was over the moon to receive the grant.

“We hope to be able to deliver four workshops to begin with, but the content in those workshops would then be used to deliver many more workshops in years to come,” she said.

The workshops will involve training and confidence building for interviews, help with preparing CVs, workplace presentation, and skill development.

Hydro Tasmania engagement program manager Sarah Metcalf said the grants provided a number of benefits to not-for-profits.

“We want to help Tassie move forward and try to get over this really

difficult period where people are struggling mentally, but also to find jobs and keep themselves afloat,” she said.

Hydro Tasmania chief executive officer Steve Davy said the business aimed to make life better for every Tasmanian.

“When we launched the fourth year of our Community Grant Program, obviously none of us could have predicted what 2020 would be like, so we announced a new one-off round of COVID-19 Community Grants to provide additional support,” he said.

“Our wish is that both our annual Com-

munity Grant Program and the new COVID-19 Community Grants will help to keep Tasmanians not only safe, but united with a sense of hope for their future.”

Other grant recipients included Edge Radio 99.3FM radio show ‘Now That’s What I Call Science’, Ulverstone Surf Life Saving Club, Sheffield Shield Association, Teach for Australia, Derwent Valley SES, Southern Tasmanian Axemen’s Association, Kentish Regional Clinic, North West Woodcraft Guild, Waverly School Association, and Resource Work Cooperative.

6 Hobart Observer July 2020

Community News

INFORMATION HUB RETURNS TO MALL AS INTRASTATE travel makes a comeback, so too has the City of Hobart’s visitor information hub at Elizabeth Mall.

The hub – along with most tourism service providers – closed in March as a result of COVID-19 travel restrictions.

As part of the City of Hobart-operated Tasmanian Travel and Information Centre (TTIC), the hub has now resumed, providing services to visitors and locals wanting to enjoy the many attractions and experiences that Hobart and Tasmania have to offer.

“This is another step towards getting back to our normal operations,” City of Hobart general manager Nick Heath said.

“As tourism operators start to reopen, the staff at the hub will be equipped with the latest information to assist residents who want to

get out and explore the state.”

Parks passes are available at the hub, and it is also the ticketing agent for the Bruny Island ferry and Port Arthur.

Throughout the closure, TTIC staff have been busy taking enquiries and selling gift cards for future travellers.

Pensioner concession parking voucher booklets are also currently available to make collection easier for eligible residents.

Pension card and proof of vehicle registration are required when collecting the vouchers.

The Elizabeth Mall information hub is open Monday to Saturday from 10am to 3pm.

At other times, bookings and enquiries can be made by phoning 6238 4222 (during business hours) or at www.hobarttravelcentre. com.au.

Paving the pathway to personal excellence FOR many students, this journey begins with their first steps into formal education as a four-year-old in kinder and progresses until they graduate at the end of year 12.

As the only Catholic, all-girls school for kinder to year 12 in Tasmania, St Mary’s College is uniquely placed to provide a seamless and comprehensive education that recognises that every child’s pathway to personal excellence is different.

Teaching and learning approaches are specifically focused on girls’ learning needs and preferences, and are underpinned by a whole-school culture that respects, nurtures, challenges and empowers.

St Mary’s College principal Helen Spencer said the single pathway for kinder to year 12 was one of its greatest

St Mary’s College provides girls with a single pathway for kinder to year 12.

strengths, allowing for the smooth transition from primary to secondary schooling.

“While students are

Apply now to join the first all-girls Kinder class at St Mary’s College Book now for a personal tour by contacting Enrolment Officer, Fiona Medwin at enrol@smc.tas.edu.au or (03) 6108 2560. Learn about opportunities for girls at www.smc.tas.edu.au/kindergarten.

From their first visit, we encourage our students to connect, wonder, create, explore and discover. The Kinder program at St Mary’s College is designed to nurture and provide opportunities to build confidence, independence and to grow their love of learning.

When it’s girls-only, girls get every opportunity.

navigating the formal school environment, they are also adjusting to the social changes that happen when changing schools and classes,” she said.

“Being on the one central site, children in the junior school get to see their older peers on a day-to-day basis, making the role modelling of older students authentic.

“As they move into the senior school, they are joined by students from other primary schools, which provides for greater diversity and a solid scale for the delivery of a breadth of subjects.”

Educational opportunities at St Mary’s College start in the junior school

(K-6), where staff and parents work in partnership to guide students to their full potential in an environment based firmly on the Gospel values of tolerance, truth, and love.

In kinder, children are encouraged to be independent in a program that builds confidence and grows their love of discovery and learning.

Designed with the college’s youngest students’ experiences in mind, the early-learning facility at St Mary’s College was purpose-built to offer a stimulating and nurturing setting tailored to foster play and sensory-based learning.

From prep to year 6, the school’s well-balanced, child-centred ed-

ucation takes account of varied learning styles and the diverse backgrounds of students, with a curriculum that includes a soundly developed literacy and numeracy program, a wide range of arts and science related activities, and many opportunities for involvement in sporting teams.

St Mary’s College welcomed enrolments for students in all year groups at any time, with places for kinder and year three in 2021 currently available.

To book a personal tour of the college or for more information, contact enrolment officer Fiona Medwin on 6108 2560 or enrol@smc.tas. edu.au.

Hobart Observer July 2020 7

Community News

Chilly nights, a warm welcome and hot soup THE streets around Hobart are quiet at this time of year, with families, flatmates and friends staying safe at home with lights and heating high and with a hot drink to guard against the cold winter outside.

Elsewhere, a dedicated group of caring volunteers have been preparing to spend the night away from their loved ones to serve the less fortunate who don’t have a place to call home.

On most nights, more than 50 people wait in the cold and dark for Loui’s Van to arrive to distribute winter clothes, a warm welcome and a hot meal.

St. Vincent de Paul Society’s southern regional president Pat Flanagan said he had seen an unrelenting demand for Loui’s Van. “We started with one Loui’s Van more than 25 years ago, which has grown to three vans today, covering Hobart, Kingston, and Huonville,” he said.

“Sadly, for the past few months, they have all been garaged, with COVID-19 having affected the Society’s ability to deliver warm clothes and hot food.

“While we were able to continue emergency relief over the last few

months, it is great to be back on the road in time for the coldest part of winter.

“Those who rely on Loui’s Van range from children to aged people and reflect a broad cross section of our community.”

Mr Flanagan said Loui’s Van assisted more than 17,000 people across the state last year.

“Many people are experiencing considerable difficulty, including homelessness, mental health issues, isolation, drug and alcohol issues, and poor self-esteem, which has been exacerbated by COVID-19,” he said.

“For many, Loui’s Van is a reminder of the dignity, concerns, and the value of all people, which goes to the heart of the Society’s reason for existing.

“The Society has a wonderful brigade of volunteers who are involved in all aspects of the Loui’s Van’s operation – from making soup, preparing sandwiches, and delivering the services around Hobart.

“It’s a wonderful feeling to be able to offer hope and help to the less fortunate.”

Almost anyone can volunteer at Loui’s Van. “Volunteers do not

require any particular experience, but it is important to be non-judgemental and to have an open heart to accept others,” Mr Flanagan said.

“A sense of humour helps at times, but most important of all, a commitment to building a just and compassionate community.

“The majority of Vinnies volunteers find Loui’s Van a rewarding and enjoyable experience.”

There are three Loui’s Vans delivering hope to the homeless and those at risk of homelessness in and around Hobart.

For $25, anyone can ‘adopt’ Loui for an evening and help the homeless without leaving home.

A $25 donation feeds the 50 people who visit Loui’s Van on any given night.

Donors can even choose the date, which could be to recognise a birthday or a donation in memory of a loved one.

To make a $25 donation or for more information about volunteering with Loui’s Van and the St. Vincent de Paul Society, contact the Emergency Relief coordinator at louisvan@ stvinnies.org.au or phone 6234 4244.

RACT6222 • BC

From left, Kane Ingham from Aurora and Vinnies long-term volunteer Robert Kreshl.

8 Hobart Observer July 2020

A FINANCIAL MOMENT

$4 million for projects to flow to Tasmanian communities

From left, Tasmanian Community Fund senior executive officer Lola Cowle, Connect42 chair Rikki Mawad and Tasmanian Chamber of Commerce and Industry chief operating officer Colleen Reardon.

THE Tasmanian Community Fund (TCF) has provided more than $4 million to 32 projects throughout Tasmania in its latest grant round incorporating medium and large projects.

Included in the funding was a service to assist older Tasmanians experiencing elder abuse and two programs designed to support those exiting the criminal justice system and their families.

Founder of Connect42 and speech pathologist Rosalie Martin said the ‘Just Moving On’ program invested in the most stigmatised and marginalised people in the community, assisting them to find their hopes and dreams, forgiveness, fairness and second chance.

“Just Moving On supports men, women and youth exiting the criminal justice system to be connected with family, education and employment, and builds on the skills and connections developed through the ‘Just Time’ program, which already is delivered within Risdon Prison,” she said.

“Well-delivered programs like ‘Just Moving On’ are proven to reduce reoffending and support social reintegration into the community – delivering a safer, more productive and engaged society to all.

“The TCF has given Connect42 the opportu-

nity to partner with the Tasmanian Chamber of Commerce and Industry to connect our work with their job readiness skills development experience.”

Tasmanian Chamber of Commerce and Industry chief operating officer Colleen Reardon said the connection with businesses could not understated in relation to job readiness.

“It’s vital that the business community takes a strong leadership role with initiatives like this,” she said.

“The benefits to the broader community will be significant and we will work with our members to ensure we can make a real impact in people’s lives.”

Kickstart Arts chief executive officer Jami Bladel said ‘The Freedom Project’ was a partnership with Justice Tasmania and established a new studio with an arts for justice program to support the health and wellbeing for people who have suffered trauma and drug addiction.

“We are very grateful to the Tas Community Fund for the opportunity to establish a new program that will do a power of good for the community,” she said.

TCF chair Sally Darke said the TCF Board was proud to be able to support so many worthwhile projects and programs in Tasmania through the

grants.

“It is important that we are able to meet the needs of our communities, and this round continues to show how the Fund has adapted to meet these needs,” she said.

Ms Darke said the TCF has strategically evolved its funding programs to better meet the needs of Tasmanians by focusing on workforce engagement, community wellbeing and community infrastructure.

“The Fund is in its 20th year of operation and it is important to continue to meet the changing needs of the Tasmanian community, and improving infrastructure is certainly one of those areas.

The Fund’s next Covid-19 specific round will open in July and seek to specifically help Tasmanian communities to support, connect and rebuild after the pandemic.

The Tasmanian Community Fund was established in 1999 following the sale of the Trust Bank.

An independent funding body, the Fund provides grants to community organisations that make a difference by improving social, environmental and economic wellbeing of the Tasmanian community.

Visit the Fund’s website www.tascomfund.org or contact the Fund Office on 6165 8333 for more information.

From left, Member for Elwick Josh Willie, Tasmanaian Labor leader Rebecca White, Royal Agricultural Society of Tasmania president Peter Spotswood, Member for Clark Ella Haddad and Shadow Treasurer David O’Byrne.

Building a better Tasmania from COVID-19 devastation TASMANIAN Labor has released the COVID-19 Recovery Package, designed to help those hardest hit by the pandemic.

The COVID-19 Recovery Package is an inclusive response with a focus on buying local, building local and employing local.

It has been designed to strengthen Tasmanian regions and create a fairer state for everyone.

A key recommendation of the COVID-19 Recovery Package was the Hobart Showground Renewal Project, which presented a great opportunity for the northern suburbs of Hobart.

The project features a redevelopment of the Hobart Showgrounds site and includes more than 500 new homes, community spaces, a new exhibition space and sports field.

Royal Agricultural Society of Tasmania president Peter Spotswood said the project would create up to 200 long term construction jobs and 50 FTE jobs on an ongoing basis.

“It addresses a number of important challenges for Hobart, such as affordable housing,” he said.

“Our concept includes 505

residences housing 1,200 people, and parking for 1000 vehicles.”

The concept also included a modern Showground of advanced architectural design, a space for a variety of community-based clubs and organisations, and a large pavilion complex, which would include a new visitor destination showcasing Tasmania’s excellence in agriculture, food and wine production.

The Hobart Showgrounds Renewal Project compliments the progression of the northern suburbs rail corridor which is also included as a recommendation in the COVID-19 Recovery Package.

With the introduction of Hobart Passenger Rail, public transport access and traffic congestion is expected to improve.

Hundreds of jobs will be created and rezoning opportunities along the rail corridor will stimulate building and construction and increase housing supply.

“Labor’s COVID-19 Recovery Package is the result of significant stakeholder consultation across the state with people who are deeply invested in our shared future,” Labor leader Rebecca White said.

“This package is designed to get people into jobs, help those hardest hit by the pandemic and create a better state for everyone.”

COVID-19 has had the greatest economic and social impact on Tasmania in a generation and has amplified the inequality across the state.

Before the virus, Tasmania had the highest rate of underemployment in the country and too many people relied on casual employment, many of whom were the first to lose their jobs when COVID-19 hit.

“The lockdown period was a disruptive and challenging time for us all and I continue to hear people speak about their desire to return to normal,” Labor Member for Elwick Josh Willie said.

“But before the virus, normal wasn’t great for far too many.

“The Hobart Showground Renewal Project and the progression of the rail corridor will help to create jobs while also contributing to the social recovery of our community.”

The COVID-19 Recovery Package forms the basis of Tasmanian Labor’s submission to the Premier’s Economic and Social Recovery Advisory Council.

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Hobart Observer July 2020 9

A FINANCIAL MOMENT Family Tax Benefit and Child Care Subsidy balancing

Hank Jongen, Services Australia EVERY year, Services Australia balances your Family Tax Benefit (FTB) and Child Care Subsidy (CCS) to make sure we pay you the right amount.

From July, most families will need to confirm their income for the 201920 financial year.

Not everyone will have to do the same thing.

What you’ll need to do will depend on your circumstances.

When we balance your payments, we compare how much FTB and CCS you got during the financial year with what you were actually entitled to, based on your confirmed family income and circumstances.

This includes any supplements you received and amounts we withheld during the year.

We’ll start balancing FTB from July, and CCS from August.

CCS is balanced later than FTB because we also need to wait for information from your childcare provider.

Before we balance your payments, you usually need to confirm your income.

To do this, you need to lodge your tax return with the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) or tell us you don’t need to lodge one.

You can do this online, so there’s no need to call or visit us.

To confirm your family’s income, you and your partner will need to lodge tax returns with the ATO. Your income information will then be sent to us by the ATO so we can balance your payments.

If you don’t need to lodge a tax return, you can let us know by confirming your family’s income with your

Centrelink online account via myGov or the Express Plus Centrelink mobile app.

You must do this for us to start balancing.

There are three possible outcomes for balancing, depending on your situation.

You may get a top up, have no change or have an overpayment.

Most families will have a top-up or no change when their balancing is complete.

You may get a top up if you weren’t paid enough during the financial year.

This will include any amount we withheld during the year.

For example, this may happen if you overestimated your family income, which meant you got less during the year than you were entitled to.

If you’re eligible for a top up payment, this will be paid into your bank account.

If you received too much FTB or CCS during the financial year, you may have an overpayment you’ll need to repay.

This can happen if you underestimated your family income or your circumstances changed, which means you got more financial assistance during the year than you were entitled to.

If you were overpaid, we’ll use the amount that’s been withheld to reduce your overpayment.

If we think we’ve paid you too much, we won’t finalise balancing your payments straight away.

This is because we’ve paused a range of debt activities due to the Coronavirus pandemic.

There’s nothing else you need to do now.

We’ll finish balancing your payments and write to you with the outcome once the pause has ended.

There’s no need to contact us to keep track of your balancing – you’ll get a letter when it’s done.

You can also check your balancing progress with your Centrelink online account through myGov or the Express Plus Centrelink mobile app.

For more information about balancing payments, visit servicesaustralia.gov. au/balancing.

Strategic Financial Advice Superannuation Advice

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Retirement Planning

Risk Management

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CONTACT US (03) 6231 3448 www.elevatewealth.com.au admin@elevatewealth.com.au

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MASTER YOUR MONEY

By Damian Gibson Financial Adviser, Elevate Wealth Solutions

TAKE control and master your money this financial year.

Here we will discuss some key aspects of your finances that you should consider in the new financial year and beyond.

REVIEW YOUR SUPER For most Aussies, superannuation is their second biggest investment after their home, so you need to make sure you pay it some attention.

• Fees Not all super funds are created equal and they vary in cost significantly.

Review the fees you pay inside super and ensure you are getting the best bang for buck.

Reducing your super fees is one of the easiest ways to boost your balance.

• Investments Ensuring your money is invested in line with your goals (e.g. what rate of return are you hoping to achieve, how comfortable are you with risk etc), is critical.

Make sure you understand how your money is invested and what it is invested in.

• Number of funds If you have more than one super account, you may benefit by consolidating them into one account.

Consolidating your super will help you save money by paying one set of fees and it will be easier for you to keep track of your balance.

Before consolidating there are several important factors to consider, so speak with a professional.

your pre-tax income into super, commonly known as salary sacrificing, can help you reduce your tax and invest more for retirement.

Depending on your circumstances, salary sacrificing could reduce the tax you pay on your income by up to 32 percent.

Build your wealth instead of giving it to the tax office.

CASHFLOW MANAGEMENT If you are not overly disciplined when it comes to managing your cashflow, developing a budget is a holdfast way of keeping yourself accountable.

This can ensure you are able to take control of your long-term wealth accumulation goals by saving before you spend.

ESTATE PLANNING Although preparing a Will is important, estate planning is about much more than that.

While a Will can help ensure your estate is distributed according to your wishes, it may not be effective in dealing with a significant portion of your wealth.

For example, the proceeds from superannuation funds and life insurance policies do not automatically form part of your estate, which means

that addressing these investments in your Will may be ineffective unless you take some important additional steps.

A well-prepared and executed estate plan can ensure the right assets go to the right people at the right time, in an efficient and tax-effective manner.

PROTECT YOUR WEALTH AND FAMILY How would you pay your mortgage and meet your other living expenses if your income ceased?

Think about the risks that you face in everyday life.

Some risks cannot be removed entirely.

However, for many risks that we cannot eliminate, we can mitigate their impact by taking out suitable personal insurances.

If you do not have adequate insurance, an unforeseen death or illness could have severe consequences for you or your family.

However, if you already have personal insurances in place, it is just as important to make sure you hold the correct types and levels of insurance.

BOOST YOUR AGE PENSION INCOME If your super or other investments have dropped in value during the first

half of 2020 due to market conditions arising from COVID-19, there is a chance your age pension will go up.

While the value of your assets are automatically reported to Centrelink throughout the year, it only happens a couple times a year.

Therefore, some of your assets may not have been reported since the markets have fallen.

Providing Centrelink with updated information now may result in your Age Pension increasing or enable someone who was previously ineligible to now apply for the age pension.

While we have only touched the surface, the above areas are a starting point towards mastering your money.

The world of personal finance can seem confusing and daunting.

Talk to a financial adviser in July and ask how we can help you.

Seeking professional advice today will put you in a better position tomorrow.

Act now and talk to us at Elevate Wealth.

Any advice in this publication is of a general nature only and has not been tailored to your personal circumstances.

Please seek personal advice prior to acting on this information.

Retire with us Wherever you are.

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10 Hobart Observer July 2020

Community News

Rug Up Tassie launches with ABC Ignorant and racist behaviour has no place Radio and Tasmanian charities in our community “At the Argyle Street Car Park, after we had just finished lunch and were preparing to pay we met a man. At first, he just stared at us. I smiled at him and nodded as a friendly greeting. But as we walked past each other, he unexpectedly shouted “go home!” to us with very disgusted eyes and angry tone. My boyfriend and I were stunned, and it took us several seconds to recover. After glancing at each other, I asked, ‘Is that racism?’ My boyfriend said ‘Yeah …’ It took us another few minutes before we could move on.”

By Anna Reynolds Lord Mayor THIS story is one of several that I have heard recently about experiences Chinese people have had in Hobart in the last few months.

These kinds of stories are upsetting, and it can make some people of Asian appearance nervous to go out and very self-conscious.

Ignorant and racist behaviour has no place in our community.

I know that it is only a small percentage of perpetrators, but even one incident is too many.

As Lord Mayor, I would like to reaffirm the strong commitment the City of Hobart has to being an inclusive city where everyone feels safe.

As local government is the level of government closest to the community, we are able to drive initiatives that impact the way our residents interact and experience our city.

And as the capital city council, we also lead the way for the rest of Tasmania in how we treat people and promote social justice.

We firmly believe that it is the many different cultures we have in our community which make it the wonderful place it is to live.

In 2019, we became part of the Welcoming Cities Network, which recognises the benefits for local governments who foster an environment of

belonging.

However, while we can lay the groundwork for inclusion and make it a priority in our decision making, it is everyone’s job to make sure we are a truly welcoming and accepting place to live.

If you see someone behaving in an inappropriate way, please say something if it is safe to do so.

Live your life in a way that is open and accepting of others.

Invite your neighbours for a (physically distanced) cup of coffee, smile and offer to help the parents in the shop who are struggling with a pram, and do not judge people just because they might look different to you, or speak another language.

Together, we can all make Hobart the most welcoming city in Australia.

From left, regular knitting volunteers Joan Duncan, Bev Reardon and Viv Evans. Photo credit: Georgie Burgess.

ABC Radio Hobart and ABC Northern Tasmania have launched ‘Rug Up Tassie’, a winter appeal that supports people with limited access to shelter and heating during the cold season.

Partnering with local branches of charities including the Salvation Army and Vinnies, the appeal will rally Tasmanians to knit together to create hundreds of blankets over winter.

Rug Up Tassie launched on 16 June and runs until 26 July.

The appeal asks Tas-

manians to get out their knitting needles to create and donate 20 centimetre wool squares.

These will then be joined together into blankets by ABC volunteers and donated to the appeal’s partner charities.

Local radio manager Samantha Stayner said many Tasmanians were looking for ways to help their community and connect with others during what will be a quieter winter for the state.

“Not everyone is in a position to be able to donate money at this time,

so Rug Up Tassie is a way for almost anyone to get involved, help fellow Tasmanians and be a part of something really special this winter,” she said.

“We are aiming to collect more than 5000 squares, which is quite a number, but we have seen the spirit, generosity and determination of Tasmanians, so we believe we can achieve this and make a difference for people who might not have access to heating and warm shelter during the cold months.”

There are drop-off

points for knitted squares located at the ABC Hobart and Launceston buildings, and at select Salvation Army stores.

Tasmanians of all ages and skill levels are encouraged to get involved.

Resources and howto videos on knitting squares are available on ABC local websites and have been shared across ABC and partner social media sites.

For more information, visit abc.net.au/ hobart and abc.net.au/ northtas.

Scientific upgrade for local schools NYRSTAR Hobart has provided lab equipment to a number of schools across Hobart to help students engage with science subjects.

Taroona High School, Cosgrove High School, Jordan River Learning Federation and Bayview Secondary College all received science equipment from Nyrstar that was still in good condition.

Nyrstar Hobart technical manager Graham Reynolds said it was important to develop good relationships with the local community.

“Nyrstar has taken the opportunity to donate excess glassware from our laboratory areas and it’s a great opportunity to share that equipment with the students as they come through the high schools in the local region,” he said.

“It will help with the students’ learning and take a bit of pressure off any budgets to buy some additional glassware.

“When people think of

tools of the trade, they tend to think of builders and plumbers and the like, but these are tools of the trade for a chemist and it’s great to see them going to a new home.”

Cosgrove High School lab technician Janaya Smith said she was grateful and enthusiastic to receive the equipment.

“We received various glassware, filtering equipment and chemicals, all of which are staples in the teaching of science at Cosgrove High School,” she said.

“It is great to connect with local industry, as it allows us to show our students that there are local jobs in science, which could inspire them to potentially choose a science based pathway in their future studies.

“We are hopeful that this is just the beginning of a great partnership between Nyrstar and Cosgrove High School, especially as we expand to cater for year 11 and 12 in 2021 and 2022.” From left, Nyrstar metallurgical technician Samra Tulumovic, with Cosgrove High School students Aidriel Enriquez, Aretha Pratomo and Sophie Knysak.

Hobart Observer July 2020 11

prime times

WINTER EDITION

Hobart veterans win grant funding VETERAN organisations in Hobart have received a funding boost in the latest round of Veteran and Community Grants Program, and the Building Excellence in Support and Training grants program.

The grants range from $4000 to $87,000 for these veteran groups, with the Veteran and Community Grants being used for activities and services that improve the health and wellbeing of members in the veteran community.

The Building Excellence in Support and Training grants support ex-service organisations to provide compensation and welfare assistance to the Defence and veteran communities.

The Australian Federation of Totally and Permanently Incapacitated Ex-Servicemen and Women was one group that was successful in this round.

The group was awarded $12,674.48, which will be used to fund a number of bus trips to reduce social isolation and purchase 10 bar stools for use at the social club among other things.

Other successful

organisations included the Tasmanian branch of the Partners of Veterans Association of Australia, Tasmanian Ex-Service and Serving Support Association (Tessa) Inc, and Hobart Legacy.

“Australia’s veteran community ranges from our Second World War veterans and war widows through to contemporary veterans with young families,” Liberal Senator Eric Abetz said.

“It is programs such as this that help veterans and their families to continue to live a healthy and independent lifestyle—something of incredible importance with the current Coronavirus pandemic.

“This funding not only supports local veterans and their families, but has a growing effect within our communities, by supporting local employment and businesses.

“These programs, which are provided through local organisations, are an important factor in ensuring veterans and their families continue to get the support that From left, Senator Eric Abetz with The Australian Federation of Totally and Permanently Incapacitated Ex-Servicemen and Women president Graham Halton. they need.”

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Is there room in your Will for me?

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Call our Planned Giving Coordinator for a confidential conversation 03 6232 1261 or visit guidedogstas.com.au/how-to-help-us/bequest

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12 Hobart Observer July 2020

A time to address difficult relationships

By Kerry Howells THERE have been many views on how we have used the period of physical distancing and self-isolation as a time to take stock of what was working and what wasn’t in our lives before we were suddenly hit with this huge disruption.

It has possibly been a time for you to reset, reflect, refresh, renew, re-establish, recycle and reinvent.

An important question is: How much we have applied these practices to the relationships in our lives – particularly those we find difficult?

Unless we give these our humble attention, we may not be able to move forward as easily together in facing the challenging times ahead.

For those who might be about to re-enter their workplace, there may be a sense of dread or anxiety as we contemplate re-entering a challenging relationship.

This time away may have led us to want to restart on a different footing.

Importantly, it may be a lack of gratitude that caused conflict or difficulties in the past.

Gratitude has an amazing power to help us to connect with others.

The words thank you, when uttered sincerely, contain a particular kind of ‘correspondence’.

Acts of genuine gratitude that seek nothing in return can restore relationships.

They can also continue to maintain them – as it’s not just a one-off action, especially in the intimate relationships in our lives.

What is it about gratitude that can have this power of building and restoring relationships?

It helps us to remember what we have received from others in the past.

When we have conflict we tend to forget.

Gratitude motivates us to give back out of acknowledgement, allowing us to see past the conflict, and act on a memory of good deeds received from someone in the past.

When we recognise another through our genuine gratitude – without wanting anything in return – we are touching a part of the connection that cannot be touched in any other way.

We acknowledge the

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worth and value of that person, and they are able to see more of this in themselves.

We help them flourish and we help the relationship flourish.

It often takes courage and humility, but gratitude helps to orientate us towards the good in the other person, and therefore to see beyond what we consider to be the bad.

Sometimes we can be afraid to do this because it might mean that we are giving up wanting justice for the harm we feel they have caused us, and it might leave us open to further harm.

However, these times we are in now are calling for such acts of bravery.

In helping us to remember what we have received in the past, gratitude can often be the starting point in helping us to forgive.

There is also an important role to play in receiving the gratitude expressed by another.

Even though the giver hopefully will not be expecting anything in return, it will be important for them to feel that we have received their thanks, so that they in turn feel acknowledged and recognised.

We need to stop and savour it, acknowledging the spirit of giving behind the act.

It’s this circle of giving and receiving that makes gratitude different from praise or positive acknowledgment, or even kindness.

Even though these can be expressions of gratitude, Inherent to gratitude is the giving and receiving of thanks.

Dying wish for daughters

Jacqui and Nat Gray with their mother Diane (centre).

JACQUI and Nat Gray are fighting to introduce laws in Tasmania to allow people suffering from a terminal illness the right to choose how, where, when and with whom they end their life, following their mother, Diane Gray’s 11-month battle with cancer.

Diane had just turned 58 when she died in hospital late 2019 with her two daughters by her side after being diagnosed with stage IV gastric cancer late 2018.

“Mum so desperately wanted to die in the comfort of her own home, at a time of her choosing surrounded by beautiful music, burning candles and in the arms of her loved ones,” Jacqui and Nat said.

“Unfortunately, the majority of wishes we could not fulfil.

“Instead, she was subjected to months of chronic pain and nausea.”

Diane eventually chose starvation and dehydration to speed up

the dying process.

“There are so many heartbreaking stories of extreme measures taken to escape the ravishes of disease,” Jacqui and Nat said.

“Ours is just one of them.”

To honour their mother’s legacy and fulfill a promise they made to her, the two daughters have started a campaign called Your Choice Tas to advocate the need for voluntary assisted dying to be legalised as an end of life choice.

They said their mission was to allow all Tasmanians the ability to live fearlessly following a terminal diagnosis and give others the freedom to choose what is right for them in their time of greatest need.

“We want to see an end to the slow, torturous and painful deaths that are currently taking place in the absence of these laws,” they said.

“We want to see Tasmanians given more options at the end of life.

“This fight is not

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about the emotional or mental affect it has on family and friends left behind after the loss of a loved one.

“This fight is for every single one of our loved ones, who begged us to set them free of their torture, and who were devastatingly denied due to Tasmania’s current laws.”

A voluntary assisted dying bill will be introduced to the Upper House in August 2020.

To help get voluntary assisted dying passed, sign the parliamentary petition at www.yourchoicetas.com.au, share your story with michael. gaffney@parliament.tas. gov.au and write to your local MP to have your say.

“Our mum was the epitome of kindness,” Jacqui and Nat said.

“Her whole world revolved around how she could make others feel appreciated or loved, and her legacy will live on in our pursuit to give Tasmanians the freedom of choice.”

Hobart Observer July 2020 13

Fund paves the way forward Working it out together for Cancer Council Tasmania

From left, Cancer Council of Tasmania chief executive officer Penny Egan and Peter Ennever.

THE Cancer Council of Tasmania has launched its new Future Fund, with the aim to raise $10 million in 10 years Cancer Council of Tasmania chief executive officer Penny Egan said the COVID-19 pandemic had severely impacted the organisation.

“Cancer doesn’t retreat,” she said.

“Every day, more than nine Tasmanians receive a cancer diagnosis - add to the 31,000 Tasmanians currently living with a cancer diagnosis.

“National research indicates that this figure is going to increase by 70 per cent to over 15 people per day by 2040, meaning one in 18 of us will be living with a personal history of cancer.

“On current population growth, this will mean potentially over

40,000 Tasmanians will be living with a cancer diagnosis.”

Ms Egan said the Future Fund was a new initiative that was a vehicle to take away some of the risk of the reliance on current fundraising and donor activities.

“The aim of the Fund is to support the capacity of Cancer Council by providing financial security,” she said.

“Our aim is to secure substantial earning from the Fund that will be reinvested back into the operations of the business to ensure we can continue to deliver its programs, services and investment into research.”

Benefits of the Fund could be delivered by investment into new programs and services, extended breadth and

reach of services and programs, investment into research, and infrastructure in the form of support centres and accommodation.

Future Fund chair Royce Fairborther said the Fund was going to make a big difference to those who need it most.

“It’s a proactive solution to a challenging problem and a way to provide people with an opportunity to donate to something that is going to continue to go on giving for the long term.”

Peter Ennever and his family are one of the beneficiaries of the fund, with Mr Ennever’s son James being diagnosed with a cancerous brain tumour in December last year.

“It was good to be able to chat to the Cancer Council and put it into perspective, as there

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was a lot unknown that you’re just not aware of,” Mr Ennever said.

“It affected everybody in the family slightly different and that’s the benefit of having somewhere we could call through.”

Mr Ennever said his daughter Lizzie was also diagnosed with cancer, but was well supported

by Canteen.

“There are a number of things that the medical and hospital system can’t provide, and James fell into a gap because he was just outside the Canteen age window,” he said.

“We chatted about it for a long time, that it would be of great benefit if those things that were available to young people, were available to adults, and the Cancer Council provides this.”

WORKING It Out (WIO), Tasmania’s gender, sexuality and intersex status support and education service, is offering a special Tasmanian COVID-19 initiative, ‘Working It Out Together’.

The program draws on the resilience of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex and queer (LGBTIQ+) people and provides a mechanism for people to support each other.

The main features are: • A special webpage with details, links and resources, www.workingitout.org.au.

• A process to allow LGBTIQ+ Tasmanians to put their hand up

• • • • • • •

Individual and group support Life skills development Recreation and Leisure Supported holidays School holiday and after school programs Respite - evening and overnight weekend Coordination of supports – improving life choices

For further information

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The program will be the perfect place to find the latest information to stay connected through a range of online and offline activities and groups, and to stay healthy through advice and links.

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mote parts of Tasmania.

This may shrink even further with the current conditions that have resulted from the COVID-19 pandemic.

Uncertainty about whether services and people are inclusive, understanding and respectful can also mean LGBTIQ+ people don’t seek help as often as they should or don’t get the right kind of help when they do ask.

The program provides connection, support and assistance that is accepting and inclusive.

For more information or to register for the individual support and peer group options, visit www.workingitout.org.au or phone 6231 1200.

The Parkside Foundation

Even if these symptoms are mild, you should get tested for coronavirus.

How about a fever, or shortness of breath?

to get extra support during this crisis and/ or to help out.

www.primaryhealthtas.com.au

Phone 03 6243 6044 Email enquiries@parkside.org.au

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Hobart Respiratory Clinic at Derwent Park – book online at hotdoc.com.au or call 6165 2367.

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14 Hobart Observer July 2020

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Hobart Observer July 2020 15

Community News

Tassie’s breaking news Hobart Boer War commemoration goes ahead

From left, John X, Minister for Arts Elise Archer and Andrew Casey.

BLUE Rocket Productions has partnered with Blue Cow Theatre to co-produce a new online comedy drama series about an incompetent Tasmanian news show for locked down audiences.

The Tasmanian World News will be 10 episodes and focus on a down-to-earth Tasmanian news team that present news as being no-thrills and no-nonsense, but are incapable of differentiating between real or conspiracy.

“It’s world news, but twisted around and presented with a small-minded Tasmanian perspective,” The Tasmanian World News creator and executive producer David Gurney said.

“They present Tasmanian news as if it is of earth shattering and global importance, and the rest of the show is about the presenters bickering amongst themselves,” Mr

Gurney said.

The show will target a broad audience, touching upon contemporary news events.

“The aim is to produce and film an episode each week so the news component in each episode is as current as possible,” Mr Gurney said.

“We’re hoping it really hits the spot with Tasmanians, but would also like to see it reach beyond that to a national and maybe even international audience.”

The cast is made up of Tasmanian talent led by well-known actor John X, who will be playing the role of lead news anchor Gary Heckenberg.

“It’s very Tasmanian-focused and it’s got a lot of Tasmanian place names and Tasmanian issues people can relate to,” John X, who is also co-producer, said.

“It’s locally produced

with locals in it, and it’s a good laugh of us taking the mickey out of ourselves.”

The show was an idea that Mr Gurney and John X first developed 20-years-ago.

The co-production is a response by the two companies to the current nature of COVID-19, with neither company being able to produce their respective television programs and theatre productions.

“The Tasmanian Government understands the importance of the state’s cultural and creative industries, and is committed to assisting the sector through the difficult times faced as a result of COVID-19,” Minister for Arts Elise Archer said.

“As part of our Cultural and Creative Industries Stimulus Package, we are now delivering new funding of $1.5 million and bringing forward $2 million of previously

announced funding to assist the individuals and organisations within Tasmania’s renowned cultural sector.

“I am delighted that Blue Cow and Blue Rocket are one of the successful recipients of our Arts and Screen Digital Production Fund, which has been specifically designed to support Tasmanian artists to work with screen professionals to make content for digital distribution and promotion.”

The Tasmanian World News will launch on 14 July.

Blue Rocket Productions is a television production company that has been producing children television shows, as well as drama and documentaries across the world for 21 years.

Blue Cow Theatre is a professional theatre company based in Hobart that aims to provide invigorating theatre.

Organiser Reg Watson with granddaughter Gracie Ryan (left). Photo credit: Francis Ryan.

DESPITE social distancing regulations due to COVID-19, the annual Hobart Boer War Commemorative Day was held on the first Sunday in June.

The ceremony took place at the Boer War Memorial on Queen’s Domain.

It was the 18th time it had been held in Hobart Organiser Reg Watson said it was important the ceremony was observed.

“I was delighted to lay flowers with my granddaughter, Gracie Ryan, on behalf of those Tasmanians who served and in memory of my grandfather and Gracie’s

great, great grandfather, Trooper Frederick Wentworth Watson, who served with the Second Tasmanian Imperial Bushmen,” he said.

“I was also pleased to see members of the public do likewise.”

After the laying of the flowers, lone bugler David Hardstaff gave the ODE, played the Last Post and then Reveille.

“It was good to see the small public participation,” Mr Watson said.

“Hopefully next year we will get back to normal with the event being colourful and well attended.”

The memorial was adorned with a magnificent piece of bronze

sculpture of a Tasmanian soldier created by past Hobart artist Ben Sheppard.

The memorial was unveiled by the Duke of Cornwall and York on 4 July 1901.

The Boer War was fought in South Africa from 1899 to 31 May 1902.

Forty-two Tasmanians died because of their service, and two Tasmanians, John Hutton Bisdee and Guy Wylly, were awarded the Victoria Cross – the first Australian born-soldiers to receive the award.

Tasmanian nurses went to the war at their own expense.

Winter Appeal raises funds for life-changing learning programs

CHILDREN’s education charity The Smith Family launched its 2020 Winter Appeal to raise funds to deliver life-changing learning and mentoring programs to students in

need.

With one in six Australian children and young people already living below the poverty line, The Smith Family Tasmanian general

manager Lesley Mackay said this year’s appeal was one of the most important in The Smith Family’s history given students had been severely disrupted by COVID-19.

“Students across the country were forced into home learning, with 23 per cent of students on of ‘Learning for Life’ sponsorship program not having a home computer with reliable internet access,” she said.

“Although students have now returned to classrooms, they will need additional support with research out of think-tank the Grattan Institute projecting that disadvantaged children are up to six weeks behind in their schoolwork following the Coronavirus shutdown.”

Ms Mackay said The Smith Family was an important charity for Tasmanian children and

families.

“The Smith Family’s learning, support and mentoring programs help children in need to fit in at school, keep up with their peers and build aspirations for a better future for themselves,” she said.

“More than 6000 students, parents, carers, educators and community members across the state participated in the full range of our learning and support programs last financial year.”

“Funds raised during the Winter Appeal will help many of these children through enabling access to a range of education programs.”

For more than 30

years, The Smith Family has helped tens of thousands of children thrive in their education through a range of targeted programs that begin in the early years of schooling and continue to tertiary level.

“We know that the education gap between advantaged and disadvantaged students, at age 15, is equivalent to around three years of schooling,” The Smith Family chief executive officer Dr Lisa O’Brien said.

“Sadly, the children who need that extra bit of support to keep up at school are from families who can least afford it, or often, provide it.”

Dr O’Brien said the

out-of-school learning and mentoring programs The Smith Family provided gave young people the skills and motivation they needed to stay in school and experience first-hand the value of finishing year 12 to open up opportunities.

“During this time, we are also delivering many of these life-changing programs remotely – including online mentoring and literacy and numeracy programs,” she said.

“This helps relieve some of the pressure on families, and helps deliver educational structure, during periods of remote learning, and when children are back in the classroom.”

16 Hobart Observer July 2020

OBSERVER SPORT

Hobart gears up for new season THE siren has sounded for the start of the season at the Hobart Junior Football Club, with AFL in Tasmania returning at long last.

Junior and youth games are scheduled to commence on Sunday 19 July for all boys and girls teams, with Auskick able to start from 13 July.

Hobart Junior Football Club president and director Russell Cripps said many of the players were concerned that there was going to be no season.

“For many of our players, football is their primary winter sport, so not playing would have potentially affected their level of physical activity and for some, their mental wellbeing,” he said.

“The length of the roster will only be a few weeks shorter than usual with the last games pushed back to the end of September.

“We will try our hardest to provide as many children as possible the opportunity to learn how to play AFL football and to progressively improve their skills and understanding of the game.

“Our focus is always on

maximising participation, having fun and teaching our players how to be well-rounded, respectful individuals who can work in a team environment.”

Mr Cripps said training had resumed at the TCA ground.

“Home of the Hobart Tigers, this beautiful ground is steeped in history and boasts one of the best playing surfaces in the city,” he said.

“Our first week back to training was limited to two groups because of restrictions around COVID-19 and wanting to trial the ‘new way’ of doing things.

“There was plenty of excitement at the first training session - we had children who had never played before and others who had not seen each other since last season.”

There are still more places available to play in boys Under 8s, 9s, 10s and 11, as well as Under 11 girls.

“We may not be one of the larger clubs, but we can guarantee a lot of fun, plenty of encouragement, new friendships and a bunch of enthusiastic coaches,” Mr Cripps said.

Back from left, James Buckland, James Wilson, Sidney Fletcher and Zakary Snare, with front from left, Jack Bull, Maverick Bradley and Zane Burgess.

FRIDAY 11 SEPTEMBER 2020

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