HALLS Saddle, in Ridgeway Reserve near the junction between Huon and Pinnacle Roads, is the City of Hobart’s proposed site for a visitor information and transport hub to bus visitors up and down the mountain.
Destination Southern Tasmania chief executive officer Alex Heroys said he supported the concept.
“I don’t think Halls Saddle would be on anyone’s radar, not even the local communities, but it’s a great asset,” he said.
“It’s a designated site that is ready for development, it has access to power and water already.
“So, the bones or foundations of it are here, we just need to attract some federal funding, to develop the master plan of this area.”
Mr Heroys said the Halls Saddle visitor and transport hub would open up much more of the mountain to a
wider range of visitors.
“The concept designs are great, including sort of a soft adventure hub,” he said.
“We know that that’s a strong driver of tourist visitation, whether it be mountain biking or walking.
“You can imagine in the winter standing here with snow on the mountain, what could you have up here maybe some icy plunge pools or saunas, who knows? It could be anything.
“Those commercial opportunities will be developed as we go along, but the opportunity for it to be a hub for a transport solution around the mountain is critical to the success.”
In April, the City of Hobart held an open day at Halls Saddle with information and concepts on what the abandoned site could be going forward, with more than 60 people
attending to talk to council staff about the future of Kunanyi/Mount Wellington.
“We’ve got an increase of visitation coming our way,” Mr Heroys said.
“We know by 2029 there’s going to be a huge increase of visitation to the mountain so we need to find a way to sustainably disperse those visitors around the mountain.
“And with the Spirit of Tasmania ferries coming on with increased capacity we’ve got larger vehicles heading this way as well and that’s an important aspect for safety on the roads.”
Mr Heroys said he commended the council for engaging with the community.
“So often in Tasmania it’s done sometimes the other way around, so getting the community involved and what we know as a tourism industry is what works for the locals works for the visitor,” he said.
The search begins for Tasmania’s local heroes
NOMINATIONS for the Tasmanian Community Achievement Awards are now open.
Every town has that inspiring individual, who we all wonder where they always find the time, The local business forever supporting its community whilst
running the best business in town and the community group that is helping everyone and everything Award categories can be viewed at www. awardsaustralia. com/communityachievement- awards/tas/ award-entry-criteria
To refer someone early visit www. awardsaustralia.com/ tascaa and select ‘refer someone’.
Referrals can also be made by calling 03 6234 9677 and passing on the nominees’ details. Nominations close Wednesday 16 July 2025
with judging in August and the Awards Gala Presentation held at the Hotel Grand Chancellor Hobart on Saturday 4th of October. For assistance, call the awards office on 6234 9677 or email caa@ awardsaustralia.com
Councillor Ben Lohberger, Destination Southern Tasmania chief executive Alex Heroys, Hobart Mayor Anna Reynolds and Federal Member for Clark Andrew Wilkie at the Halls Saddle Open Day
Community urged to Sleep Rough or Sleep
Out as housing demand continues to soar
Participants
WITH more Tasmanians on the public housing waitlist than ever, Hobart City Mission is urging people to join the fight against homelessness and Sleep Rough for a night to raise awareness and funds for its life-changing services.
Sleep Rough 2025 will take place at Princess Wharf 1 on Friday 23 May.
Teams or individuals will raise funds then spend one night ‘sleeping rough’ either in the shed or out on the PW1 forecourt.
A new element this year is the Sleep Rough Sleep Out, bringing schools on board to host their own sleepover during May.
Bellerive Cottage School 5-6 teacher Kath WindfeldPetersen said participating was an opportunity for students to raise funds and awareness.
“We started focussing on homelessness after watching the ‘I am 11’ documentary, which asks 11-year-olds about their concerns,” she said.
“We started talking about our own and many students were worried about the number of families around Hobart without safe, secure homes.
“I’ve participated in Sleep Rough before and
this was a great way for our students to unite around a cause, practice empathy and make a real difference for hundreds of families, especially for kids just like them, who are doing it tough in our own community.”
Hobart City Mission chief executive officer Harvey Lennon said Sleep Rough was one of the charity’s major annual fundraisers.
“There are now more than 5,000 families in Tasmania on the housing register, while they experience some form of homelessness,” he said.
“Over the past three years, Sleep Rough has raised almost $600,000 for its programs that provide food, emergency shelter, short- and longterm accommodation and pathways to Tasmanians grappling with homelessness.
“This year we are aiming to raise $300,000 to help fund our housing programs and emergency accommodation that put a roof over the heads of around 80 adults and 30 children every single night, as well as the 40 food packs we give out daily.”
To register or donate visit sleeprough.com.au/signup
Launch of the Tasmanian Strategic Flood Maps
THE State Emergency Service (SES) has released the Tasmanian Strategic Flood Maps, a public tool designed to safeguard local communities during extreme weather events.
The $3 million project, jointly funded between the Tasmanian and Australian Governments, will enhance strategic and operational planning capabilities before, during and after flood events, benefiting communities across the state.
Minister for Police, Fire and Emergency Management Felix Ellis said providing this key information would support communities in becoming more resilient to floods.
“We saw just how
devastating floods can be during the extreme weather events last year,” he said.
“By making this information publicly available, we’re empowering Tasmanians with clear, actionable flood risk
information, enabling better preparedness for extreme weather events.
“As we head into winter, I encourage all Tasmanians at risk of flooding to use this critical resource to help secure their properties.
“This tool also provides government agencies and other stakeholders with strategic insights to inform flood risk assessments, operational planning, and land-use management. For more information or to access the Tasmanian Strategic Flood Maps, visit the SES website at www.ses.tas.gov.au and the LISTMAP website at www.thelist.tas.gov. au
Tasmania turning red for the return of Dark Mofo
DARK Mofo will spread its iconic winter lights across Tasmania, as the quirky, ambitious and highly anticipated event returns.
Minister for Sports and Events Nick Duigan said the program launch had something for everyone in every corner of the state.
“We know Dark Mofo is an iconic Tasmanian event and recognised as a world-class winter festival,” he said.
“The 2025 iteration of
the festival will feature all the usual festival favourites, such as the Winter Feast, Night Mass and the Nude Solstice Swim.
“I am particularly excited for the events in Launceston’s Princess Theatre and Ulverstone’s Planetarium as the festival spreads its wings across Tasmania.
“From arts, performances, music, food and rituals, there is something in this event for everyone.”
Minister Duigan said the festival drove significant interstate and international visitation to Tasmania during our off-season.
“From 2013 to 2023, Dark Mofo attracted more than 300,000 unique visitors to Tasmania,” he said.
“It also delivers a strong return on investment to the State, of approximately 5:1, significantly boosting the tourism and the hospitality sectors in the
quieter winter months.
“That’s why the Tasmanian Government has secured this iconic event until 2027 as part of our 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania’s Future.
“This is just one part of our Government’s commitment to Tasmania’s events sector to support their ongoing success.”
Dark Mofo 2025 will take place from June 5 to 15, with the Nude Solstice Swim on 21 June.
Incat’s next-generation ferry ready in 2026
CONSTRUCTION of Incat’s newest 78-metre hybrid electric ferry is on track for operation in the first half of 2026.
Designed with lowemission operations in mind, the lightweight craft represents the next evolution in Incat’s electric ferry range, incorporating lessons learned from the world’s largest battery-electric ship, Hull 096, also nearing completion at the
Tasmanian shipyard. Incat chief executive officer
Stephen Casey said the vessel’s flexible propulsion options (fully electric, hybrid or generatorassisted) would offer unmatched versatility for operators navigating the transition to cleaner energy.
“Sized to replace the first generation of high-speed craft now approaching 35-years
in service, this vessel is a future-focused solution for operators needing sustainable, fast, and efficient transport,” he said.
“Incat has engineered this ferry to meet the demands of modern operators - high performance, lower operating costs, and the ability to meet or exceed tightening environmental regulations.
“It’s one of the most commercially
Law Week in Tasmania
THE Legal Profession Board of Tasmania is hosting the fourth annual Law Week in May.
It is hoped that everyone in the community will take the opportunity to learn about different aspects of the law and their legal rights.
All the events are free and will be delivered across Tasmania from within the legal profession, community and not for profit sectors.
As part of law week you might like to.
• Have a coffee
with a lawyer at the Launceston Community Legal Centre
• Tour the Supreme Court in Salamanca, Hobart after hours
• Participate in a Supreme Court sentencing workshop in Launceston or in Hobart
• Attend seminars around Tasmania organised by the Public Trustee and learn about the key documents that can protect you and your loved ones, including your Will, Enduring Power of Attorney, Advance Care
Directive and Enduring Guardianship
• Meet Zoe the Court dog at the Federal Circuit and Family Court in Hobart
• Learn about ‘Trauma Informed Practice’ with Regina Weiss and Robert Benjamin
• Delve into a series of podcasts from the Women’s Legal Service into the difficulties and inequalities women face in legal proceedings
For more information and the full events program visit www. lawweektas.com.au
compelling vessels on the market today.”
Mr Casey said a sister ship was also in the pipeline and could be available within 12-months after the delivery of this vessel.
“The 78-metre ferry is part of Incat’s broader strategy to deliver multiple smaller electric ships annually as we scale production to lead the global shift toward sustainable aluminium shipbuilding.”
A concept image of the new Incat hybrid-electric ferry
The Platypus Ogoh-Ogoh paraded through Dark Mofo in 2023
Reliable property law specialists in Tasmania
BUYING or selling
residential property, whether for personal use or as part of an investment strategy, is one of the most significant financial decisions you’ll ever make.
At Paula Sutherland & Associates, we understand the weight of this decision and are committed to guiding you through the process with confidence, clarity and care.
We offer a highly efficient, affordable and reliable conveyancing service to clients across Tasmania.
Whether you’re a first-home buyer, a seasoned investor, or downsizing into retirement, our experienced team ensures every legal detail is handled with precision.
From the initial contract review or preparation through to settlement day, we’re with you every step of the way.
With decades of combined experience, our conveyancing team specialises in
residential property transactions, offering clear, practical advice tailored to your needs.
We take the time to explain every stage of the process in plain language, ensuring you feel informed and supported throughout. Every conveyancing transaction involves numerous moving parts—dealing with banks, councils, agents and government departments. Our team works behind the scenes to coordinate all of these elements seamlessly and professionally, reducing stress and minimising delays.
Choosing a firm with qualified solicitors means that should any unexpected issues arise, such as title defects, contract disputes or settlement complications, we can respond quickly and effectively.
Unlike conveyancers who may need to outsource legal matters, our inhouse legal expertise allows us to handle complexities directly, saving you time and
money. At Paula Sutherland & Associates, we pride ourselves on building long-term relationships
with our clients, many of whom return to us for their next property transaction or recommend us to
friends and family. We believe in a personalised approach, where you’re more than just a file number.
Let our friendly, knowledgeable team take the hassle out of buying or selling your home.
Contact us today to find out how we can help make your next move a smooth and successful one.
Paula Sutherland and Associates principal Paula Sutherland
New scheme rewards recyclers with 10c refund
RECYCLE Rewards, Tasmania’s new container refund scheme, begins 1 May.
TasRecycle chief executive officer Ken Roughley takes us through which drink containers are eligible for a 10 cent refund, which are not and why.
“Recycle Rewards aims to reduce litter and increase recycling,” he said.
“The eligible drink containers included in the
now you can get 10c back for every eligible drink container you return.”
Most drink containers sized from 150ml to 3L will be eligible for the 10 cent refund provided they are made from glass, plastic, aluminium, steel or liquid paperboard (carton).
“Look for the 10c mark on the back of your empty drink container as a general guide to what’s
cordial bottles.
There are no changes to what can be recycled in your kerbside recycling bin.
Roughley also reminded Tasmanians not to crush their containers.
“They need to have a readable barcode so they can be scanned,” he said.
“Please leave lids on if you can and we’ll make sure they’re recycled
Every eligible drink container now gets
All Tasmanians can now come together to help make change. With less containers going to landfill, we can also help keep our beautiful state, in a beautiful state. Start by collecting your eligible drink containers:
Look for the 10¢ mark near the barcode as a general guide
TasRecycle CEO Ken Roughley at a Recycle Rewards reverse vending machine, where Tasmanians can return eligible drink containers for a 10c refund from 1 May. Photo credit: Rob Burnett.
Palliative Care Tasmania leads a statewide call to action during National Palliative Care Week
for palliative care in Tasmania, PCT exists to support every Tasmanian to live well, even while facing a life-limiting illness. They work to raise awareness, improve access, support the workforce, and educate individuals, families, and carers about how palliative care can make a profound difference.
Veney Hiller CEO of PCT said The 2025 theme, What’s Your Plan? invited all of us to have the conversations we too often avoid.
“Palliative care is not about giving up—it is about living as well as possible, for as long as possible.
“It provides relief from pain and other symptoms, emotional and psychological support, spiritual care, guidance for families and dignity at every step.
“It does not hasten or postpone death—it supports quality of life.”
vision co-created with health services, government and community members to define what quality care should look like for all Tasmanians.
• The PalliCaring Guide – a 70+ page, practical handbook for anyone living with a lifelimiting illness or caring for someone who is. It covers everything from symptom management and support services to planning, grief, and decision-making.
Tasmania showing solidarity, National Palliative Care Week is about challenging ourselves to engage with what matters most—and making a plan that reflects our wishes.
“Tasmania has a growing ageing population, and the demand for palliative care is only
increasing,” Ms Hiller said.
“As individuals, families, professionals and governments, the time to prepare is now.
“So, what’s your plan? And how can we help you make it?”
To learn more or access support visit www.palliativecaretas. org.au
EVERY day in Australia, 400 people die of a life limiting illness like dementia, cancer, heart and neurological conditions to name a few. Every one of them could benefit from palliative care— support that is their human right, support that enriches their final days, and support that too many still miss out on.
As part of National Palliative Care Week, 11 to 17 May, Palliative Care Tasmania (PCT) is leading the state in asking a simple but powerful question: “What’s your plan?”
As the peak body
“It challenges individuals to consider their own wishes for end-of-life care, families to talk openly and honestly, health professionals to prepare for rising demand and governments to plan and invest in compassionate, sustainable services,” she said.
Yet despite the benefits, myths and misunderstandings persist. Death is still considered taboo, and the reluctance to talk about it means many people miss the chance to plan ahead or get the care they need when it matters most.
That’s why PCT is proud to launch two powerful resources in May:
• The Tasmanian Palliative Care Community Charter – a shared
Alongside these resources, PCT is running a state-wide awareness campaign: “This Weekend, Have an Awkward Conversation.” Because even a difficult chat today can bring clarity, comfort and connection tomorrow.
From grief and loss webinars to storytelling sessions and an orange-lit
Palliative Care Tasmania chief executive officer Veney Hiller
Consumer Advocate Judi Adams
Tasmania home to some of Australia’s brightest minds
TWO of this year’s recipients of the Westpac Future Leaders Scholarships are proud to call Tasmania home, finding inspiration on the island and at The University of Tasmania (UTAS) for their research in the field of sustainable futures.
Hannah Sheers and Hunter Forbes have reach received scholarships, worth $120,000 each, to support them through their postgraduate degrees.
The Westpac scholarships were developed to enable, connect and build the confidence and leadership capability of the nation’s best and brightest postgraduate students.
Ms Sheers, who grew
up in Tasmania, said she always felt a deep connection to nature which instilled in her a strong appreciation for sustainability.
Her PhD research, supervised by Associate Professor Stuart Thickett, Dr Melissa Stanfield and Professor Jason Smith from UTAS, builds on this foundation, exploring bio-derived alternatives to petroleum-based polymers.
“This work combines scientific innovation with the potential for real-world change, which I find really exciting,” she said.
“By utilising Tasmanian timber waste, I aim to develop innovative, naturebased solutions that are competitive with current market products while
addressing the end-of-life use of these materials.”
Mr Forbes said he was inspired to move to Tasmania to study marine science after a pre-degree course at the university studying temperate marine science on Maria Island.
“I had the most incredible time and moved straight down to Hobart for my undergraduate degree, before continuing on with honours,” he said.
“My love for and fascination with kelp forests and Australia’s Great Southern Reef grew over the following years that I worked for the University at the Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies.
Hunter is now a marine scientist studying
seaweeds and the broader ecosystems they support, focusing on kelp forest ecology, climate change impacts, and habitat restoration.
His PhD research is supervised by Dr Scott Bennett and Professor Catriona Hurd at UTAS, as well as Professor Thomas Wernberg at the University of Western Australia.
“The most exciting thing about my research is the scale of it - the plan is to travel and dive all around Australia to study kelp forests, which will help us to better understand the processes playing out along this huge, interconnected reef system, and where the pressure points are,” Mr Forbes said.
Declyn is on the road
Have you thought how important our mobility is?
Declyn, 16, lives with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy and he needs to use a wheelchair some of the time to get around.
His mum and dad were thrilled to have been donated a wheelchair accessible vehicle by Muscular Dystrophy Tasmania (MDT).
“This has changed our lives,” Declyn’s mum said.
As a family they can
now get out and about together and do fun things as well as get to and from school and medical appointments with a greater level of independence.
In the week of 1-8 June this year, MDT runs a “Go Orange for MD” campaign, where they ask people “What will YOU do?” to help raise awareness of this rare disability and to fundraise to support people like Declyn to live a fulfilled life.
Perhaps you’ll arrange a morning tea at work or a mimosa
brunch with friends and have a raffle?
More information can be found at goorange.com.au or call 0417 372 233 if you would like to organise a local event or donate to this very worthwhile cause.
“Muscular Dystrophy is a condition that affects 1,000 Tasmanians but I’ve seen the benefits a little help can give for youngsters like Declyn and his family,” MDT patron Peter Gee said.
Declan (16) and Muscular Dystrophy Tasmania patron Peter Gee
FOR many Tasmanians living on a low income, buying energy efficient heating and appliances can be out of reach due to upfront costs, high interest rates and predatory rent-to-buy schemes which can mean consumers end up paying much more.
However, there is hope for those on a low income needing to access the essentials for a better quality of life.
The Tasmanian No Interest Loan Scheme (NILS) provides safe, fair and affordable loans to lowincome Tasmanians.
Established in 2002, with initial ‘seed’ capital of $300,000 from Aurora Energy, NILS began supporting low-income Tasmanians access the essentials including energy efficient appliances.
NILS CEO John Hooper highlighted the initiative’s role in providing financial relief and promoting economic stability within the community.
“Each of us at NILS sees every day, the impact a safe, affordable loan can make to
Tasmanians living on a low income… each loan provides what a Tasmanian needs and at the same time ensures that they don’t have to turn to exploitative, predatory lenders as an alternative,” Mr Hooper said.
He shared this story from a recent loan recipient:
“A power outage had taken out my heat pump in the middle of winter and I discovered that my insurance didn’t cover it,” the recipient said.
“I didn’t have the money to replace it without saving up and I have asthma which is triggered by cold air so I was very worried about how I would manage with just an old and not very efficient wood heater.
“The NILS loan allowed me to replace it quickly.”
With Tasmania’s average household electricity usage being the highest in the country, largely due to the colder climate, inefficient homes and low gas usage, access to energy-efficient appliances like heat pumps without relying on predatory lenders is essential.
Aurora Energy CEO Nigel
Home Heating Feature
Clark said investing in NILS allows Aurora to help more customers lower their power bills by making energyefficient appliances more accessible
“We know that inefficient energy use is a key driver of high power bills,” Mr Clark said.
“Through NILS, we’re able to bring real and practical benefits to those customers most in need.
“Our 2023-24 funding of the subsidy program enabled 291 Tasmanians on a low-income access energy efficient appliances including heat pumps, fridges, washing machines and freezers”.
Since its inception, NILS has issued more than 45,000 loans totalling more than 40 million dollars.
The initial loan capital has now been lent and repaid in the community at least
18 times saving Tasmanians an estimated $10 million in predatory interest.
In fact, Aurora Energy’s initial contribution, plus an additional $2.9 million in subsidy funding by the energy retailer over 10 years has saved Tasmanians an estimated $23 million.
By providing access to safe, affordable loans, NILS is not only helping Tasmanians manage their finances but
also ensuring they can keep their homes warm and comfortable.
This support is crucial in a state where the colder climate demands reliable and efficient heating solutions, making a significant difference in the lives of many.
You can find out more about the No Interest Loan Scheme at nilstasmania.org. au
As the winter chill sets in, the battle to keep warm without breaking the bank begins. But there’s no need to compromise your cosiness at home to keep costs low!
Over 100,000 Tasmanians are already beating winter bill shock with aurora+. Monitor your usage and find efficiencies to help you save on your bill.
Stay warm and in control with:
+Daily usage monitoring
+Easy in-app payments
+Live account balance
+Monthly or quarterly billing
+Access to free electricity with Power Hours
aurora+ is free and available on your smart phone, tablet, or desktop.
Scan the QR code or visit auroraenergy.com.au/plus to find out more. Keep
A FINANCIAL MOMENT A FINANCIAL MOMENT
Telling us of changes
Hank Jongen, General Manager, Services Australia
HELLO everyone.
A common misunderstanding from customers is the belief that Services Australia can see people’s bank balances.
Often people don’t think they need to tell us about changes because they assume we already know.
We don’t have the ability to see these things.
It’s up to you to let us know of changes to your circumstances within 14 days.
If you don’t tell us, we may pay you more money than you’re entitled to and you’ll have to pay the money back.
So, what changes do you need to tell us about?
A great starting point is to look at the letters you get from us, either online or in your letter box.
They outline what you need to notify us about.
Please make sure you read them.
ROSEMARY SALMON
Method
2
Sport
If you’re working, it’s important you report what you’re paid each entitlement period.
You also need to let us know about changes to your financial assets like your bank balances and shares.
You don’t need to tell us every time your bank balance changes, but you do need to tell us if the balance of your combined financial assets increases by more than $2,000.
You also have to tell us if the value of your other types of assets go up by $1,000.
If you’re getting a part-rate of payment, it might be in your interest to let us know of any reductions in your asset values as well.
Shares are a bit different to other financial assets.
We automatically update the values of your shares twice a year on 20 March and 20 September, so you don’t have to tell us of any increase in the market value of your shares.
We’ll take care of that two times each year.
But remember, you can ask for a revaluation at any time. You do need to
You need to let us know about a change to your address, going overseas, changes to your relationship status or stopping and starting work.
tell us if the number of your shares have changed, that is, if you’ve bought or sold some, or if you’ve been given new shares through something like a dividend reinvestment scheme.
In addition, if you own property that’s not your principal home and you have a loan or mortgage against it, you should update this balance on a regular basis as well.
In most cases, the mortgage you hold over the property (or a portion of it) may impact the property’s assessable value.
We assess the value of your property at the time of application, and then automatically revalue your property on the anniversary of your claim, based on the movement of property prices.
Telling us about changes is easy using your Centrelink online account through myGov.
You can also report your income using the Centrelink reporting line on 133 276. You can find out more by going to our website, servicesaustralia.gov. au and searching for ‘update details’. Until next time.
Hobart sportsgrounds receive lighting overhaul
A CUTTING-EDGE upgrade to lighting systems across Hobart sportsgrounds has improved reliability and reduced costs, putting an end to late night light spills across empty fields.
The City of Hobart has completed the installation of a new lighting control system at local grounds, replacing the previous patchwork of old infrastructure.
Sport and recreation program leader Shannon Avery said the older system of controlling lights was often a logistical nightmare.
“We manage 15 different grounds with lighting, but some sites relied on outdated time controllers and others had unreliable 4G-based
remote controls,” he said.
“We had issues where lights weren’t turning off or on when they were meant to, meaning we’d have to send staff over after hours to manually override them.”
This resulted in unnecessary energy use, while also being frustrating for sports teams, staff and residents who lived near sports fields.
The system overhaul began with a trial across sportsgrounds in Sandy Bay and South Hobart in 2022.
When this proved successful, it was progressively rolled out across the city, culminating in the final installation at the
Domain Athletics Centre in late 2024.
Now, instead of relying solely on mobile networks, the system integrates microwave technology and fibre where available, ensuring a far more stable connection.
This has resulted in a seamless, centralised lighting control network that can be managed remotely via laptop or mobile phone.
“It’s a huge improvement on what we had,” Mr Avery said.
“If a club calls up because their lights haven’t turned off, we can fix it remotely in seconds instead of sending someone out.
“It’s super-efficient and takes the stress off
our staff and clubs.”
One of the biggest advantages of the new system is its ability to instantly respond to changing weather conditions.
During Hobart’s winter months, when grounds are sometimes closed due to heavy rain, lighting at multiple venues can now be shut off at the push of a button.
Mr Avery said the city was looking forward to exploring other technological improvements that might be able to use the same system.
“For now, it’s already made a massive difference for our clubs, staff and the broader community,” he said.
City of Hobart sport and recreation program leader Shannon Avery operated the new lighting control system
