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NOVEMBER 2026
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St David’s centenary
EV Feature
WOOLEY WINS
SPORT
A FREE PUBLICATION FOR THE CITY OF HOBART
Archery Championships
Former journalist Charles Wooley has been elected Hobart’s new Lord Mayor, promising a fresh approach to council leadership. His priorities include council rates, infrastructure and services, as a newly elected nine-member council prepares to take office. FULL STORY ON PAGE 2
Newly elected Hobart Mayor Charles Wooley with his dog Dusty
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2 Hobart Observer NOVEMBER 2026
Community News
New life for Hobart’s fallen giants
Friends’ design and technology teacher Michele Diener with the school’s allocated giant sequoia timber
TIMBER from two iconic giant sequoia trees removed from Hobart’s St David’s Park will be given a new lease on life through 25 community, cultural and creative projects. The City of Hobart received more than 60 expressions of interest from artists, schools, researchers and community organisations
seeking to repurpose the timber from the historic trees, which were removed earlier this year after falling into decline. The successful projects range from Aboriginal cultural works and public art to furniture making, vocational training, musical instruments and scientific research. Among the recipients is The Friends’ School,
where students will transform a sequoia log into outdoor seating for the senior school campus. The school’s design and technology teacher Michele Diener said the project would provide students with valuable hands-on experience. “We’re going to use our log to take our students through all the stages in which timber will be
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processed from taking it to the sawmill and then designing it and turning it into usable furniture,” Ms Diener said. “They’ll get to see a log in its raw form. “They’ll get to see how it’s cut down and then get their hands on it and see how it gets seasoned.” Elizabeth College students will also use the timber to construct picnic
tables, while Claremont College will create tables for its hospitality classroom. Other projects include woodworking programs through the Tasmanian Prison Service and the Defence and Veterans Workshop, providing opportunities for skill development, rehabilitation and wellbeing.
Aboriginal artists will use the timber to create cultural objects including clapsticks, spears and coolamons, while other makers will produce jewellery, sculptures, lighting and commemorative works. Researchers will also investigate atmospheric radiocarbon records preserved in the trees’ growth rings.
The two sequoias were planted in St David’s Park in 1937 to commemorate the coronation of King George VI and Queen Elizabeth. Both trees stood more than 30 metres tall before being removed following unsuccessful attempts to restore their health.
in town’,” he said. “My advisers tell me I can’t do that, but we’ll see.” He also reiterated his opposition to further bike lane developments, describing the Collins Street bike lane as a mistake, though acknowledging that reversing existing projects could prove difficult. He expressed support for discussions about council amalgamations, suggesting Hobart could explore closer cooperation with neighbouring Glenorchy and Clarence. On the proposed Macquarie Point stadium, Lord Mayor Wooley said the council would need to work with the Tasmanian Government to make the
project successful. The final election results have also confirmed the makeup of Hobart’s new nine-member council with John Kelly, Bill Harvey, Ryan Posselt, Simon Behrakis, Harvey Lennon, Louise Elliot, Mike Dutta and Zelinda Sherlock elected alongside the new Lord Mayor. In an unusual outcome, Ben Lohberger was elected Deputy Lord Mayor but failed to secure a councillor position, leaving him unable to take up the role. The new council will instead elect a Deputy Mayor from among its members at its first meeting.
Wooley takes Hobart’s top job FROM FRONT PAGE
VETERAN journalist and former 60 Minutes reporter Charles Wooley has been elected Hobart’s new Lord Mayor, promising a fresh approach to council leadership and a renewed focus on the needs of local residents. Mayor Wooley secured the city’s top job with 55 per cent of the vote following the distribution of preferences. He replaces outgoing Lord Mayor Anna Reynolds who did not contest the election after eight years in the role. Campaigning under the slogan “Hobart for Hobartians” Mayor Wooley promised a renewed focus on council services, rates and infrastructure alongside a more cooperative approach
to local government. Lord Mayor Wooley said he wanted to move beyond the divisions that had characterised the previous council. “The last eight years of council have been vitriolic,” he said. “I’m not the boss, I represent the council to you and I will represent you, the public, to the council.” Among his priorities is a commitment to limit council rates, with Lord Mayor Wooley suggesting a potential $200 reduction for ratepayers, although he acknowledged the proposal might not be achievable. “My own inclination is to give everybody a $200 rate cut and say ‘go and spend it
In this issue The Hobart Observer is your monthly community newspaper reaching more than 22,300 homes and business, distributed on the second Tuesday of each month.
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Community News
Poverty exists. Change is possible
St Vincent de Paul Society Tasmania CEO Connie Digolis, CatholicCare CEO Julia Mangan and TasCOSS CEO Paula Wriedt. Photo credit: Tobias Hinds
TASMANIAN community service organisations partnered during AntiPoverty Week to highlight the impacts of poverty in Tasmania and encourage action for change. CatholicCare Tasmania, Loreto Community Housing, Mission Australia, TasCOSS, City Mission, the Salvation Army and St Vincent de Paul Society called on the Australian Government to establish standard measures of poverty in Australia and set targets to reduce it. A new Poverty in Australia 2026: Who is affected report, released by the Poverty and Inequality Partnership, revealed that about one-in-six Tasmanians were living in poverty. Tasmania’s poverty rate had increased from 14.2 per cent to 16.9 per cent and remained among the highest in Australia. These figures were based on 2022/23 data, meaning today’s numbers could be higher given increasing cost-of-living pressures. CatholicCare Tasmania CEO Julia Mangan said financial hardship was no longer confined to people traditionally considered vulnerable. “Working families, older Tasmanians, young people
and those on modest incomes are increasingly feeling the impact of rising costs. Many people are only one unexpected event away from crisis,” she said. “Housing affordability and availability are increasingly pushing people into financial hardship. “People are sacrificing essentials such as food, healthcare, education and social participation to maintain housing.” St Vincent de Paul Society CEO Connie Digolis said the figures highlighted the devastating impact of poverty and disadvantage, yet far too little had changed for those experiencing it. “This year, we stand united, inviting Tasmanians to stand with us and put their voices behind the call to break the poverty cycle,” she said. “We know change is possible, but it requires governments to set clear measures and targets and to be accountable for reducing poverty in Australia.” TasCOSS CEO Paula Wriedt said the latest figures showing poverty increasing should serve as a wake-up call. “Poverty is not inevitable and we cannot accept a future where one-in-six Tasmanians
are trapped in a cycle of poverty, forced to make impossible choices — between putting food on the table, paying the rent, filling up the car to get to work or affording essential medical care,” she said. “Reducing poverty must be a priority for governments, with clear targets and public reporting on progress.” Ms Wriedt also highlighted the need for sustainable funding for community organisations, with a recent TasCOSS survey finding three-infive organisations had been forced to turn people away due to insufficient resources. As part of Anti-Poverty Week, community service organisations gathered in the Elizabeth Street and Brisbane Street malls in Hobart and Launceston on 14 October. Visitors were invited to sign postcards calling for action on poverty, which were to be delivered to key members of the Tasmanian Government. The events also featured information stalls, displays and activities, providing opportunities for the public to learn more about poverty in Tasmania and the organisations supporting people experiencing hardship.
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Hobart wellness hub: Corner of Liverpool and Elizabeth Streets. Visit stlukes.com.au/events to see our full list of events, or call 1300 651 988.
4 Hobart Observer NOVEMBER 2026
Community News
Lifesaving devices head into Tasmania’s wilderness
St John Ambulance CEO Matt Brocklehurst, St John trainer and volunteer Octavius Corcoran, Tasmanian Walking co-head of delivery Heath Garratt and Tasmanian Walking co-marketing coordinator Laura Fox
PORTABLE defibrillators will accompany bushwalking guides into some of Tasmania’s most remote wilderness areas, thanks to a new partnership between Tasmanian Walking Company and St John Tasmania. The initiative will see lightweight St John Pocket AEDs (automated external defibrillators)
carried on guided walks, providing access to potentially lifesaving equipment in locations where emergency assistance may be hours away. The partnership was highlighted during a demonstration at Knocklofty Bush Reserve in West Hobart on 30 October. It follows research
commissioned by St John Tasmania which found 82 per cent of Tasmanians could not confidently identify the location of their nearest defibrillator. The research also revealed that just 48 per cent of Tasmanians felt confident using an AED during a cardiac arrest. St John Tasmania chief executive officer Matt Brocklehurst
said the partnership demonstrated the importance of making lifesaving equipment accessible beyond traditional public locations. “A defibrillator can only save a life if it can get to the person who needs it,” he said. “What makes the Pocket AED concept so useful in environments
like these is that instead of asking people to find the defibrillator, the defibrillator travels with them. “When you’re many kilometres from roads, towns or traditional emergency infrastructure, that creates another layer of preparedness.” Tasmanian Walking Company operates guided walking
experiences across Tasmania, including journeys through remote wilderness areas where access to emergency services can be limited. Head of delivery Heath Garratt said carrying portable defibrillators would provide additional peace of mind for guides and guests. “The magic of Tasmania’s wilderness
is its remoteness. But venturing into nature means emergency help isn’t always close at hand,” he said. “In the wilderness, help can be hours away and having a defibrillator on hand could save a life. “By partnering with St John Tasmania, we’re giving our guides the tools to respond when every second matters.”
Josh Willie joins TasTAFE graduates in celebrating student success
Cody Summers with Opposition Leader Josh Willie MP
OPPOSITION Leader Josh Willie MP has congratulated graduates and award recipients at the TasTAFE South Region Graduation and Awards Ceremony, recognising the dedication and hard work of students from across Southern Tasmania. The ceremony celebrated students completing qualifications in a wide range of fields and highlighted the important role vocational education plays in helping Tasmanians build rewarding careers. Held at the C3 Convention Centre in South Hobart, the event brought together graduates, families, teachers and community members to celebrate ADVERTISEMENT
their achievements. Mr Willie attended the ceremony and spent time speaking with graduates about their experiences, including Cody Summers who recently completed his Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care and was named TasTAFE’s 2026 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Student of the Year. “Meeting Cody and hearing his story was one of the highlights of the evening,” Mr Willie said. “His achievement shows what can happen when people are given the opportunity to learn new skills and pursue their goals. It was inspiring to see so many graduates celebrating the results of their hard work and taking the next
step in their journey.” Mr Willie said TasTAFE remains one of Tasmania’s most important education institutions, helping people gain practical skills and supporting industries across the state. “Whether it’s preparing the next generation of educators, tradespeople, health workers or hospitality staff, TasTAFE helps build the workforce our communities rely on,” he said. “That’s why we must continue investing in and supporting TasTAFE, so more Tasmanians can access the opportunities that education and training provide.”
Hobart Observer NOVEMBER 2026 5 Glenorchy Gazette OCTOBER 2026 5
Community News Community News
Share your memories of Bucaan Community House Ambulance Tasmania welcomes new recruits FROM FRONT PAGE
BUCAAN Community House (BCH) in Chigwell is turning 40, and the team at the House is asking the community to help tell its story as part of a big celebration planned for October. Established by the community in 1986, Chigwell Community House was officially opened by the Hon Ray Groom MHA. The organisation changed its name to Bucaan, after the street it’s on, sometime in the early 2000s, after the nearby Chigwell House
building was reopened by Mission Australia, causing confusion between the two organisations. “Over four decades the House has grown from a space for locals to meet for a cuppa and a chat to delivering more than 20 programs and supporting 900 people each week” BCH Mary-Anne Evans said. Programs locals may remember include the long-running Chigwell Support Program, the youth centre and Child and Family Learning Centre it helped establish and, more
recently, management of the Chigwell Community Garden, the Full Gear and U-Caan Drive learner driver programs and the youth arts program Crewative Arts Connect. To mark the milestone, BCH is holding an 80s-themed disco and pizza party at the Chigwell Barn on 14 October from 3:30pm to 5:30pm. Ms Evans is calling on the community to help with a planned history wall: “We’d love it if community members would share photos, newspaper clippings,
stories and names of people involved with the House, particularly from the 1980s and 1990s, and anyone who remembers the House being built,” she said. Photos and memories can be shared in person at 8 Bucaan Street, by phone on 6249 5363, or by email at coordinator@ chigwellcommunity.org.au. Free tickets for the 40th birthday party are available now via the House Facebook page or at www. events.humanitix.com/ bucaan-community-houseturns-40
Enrico Palermo is your northern suburbs Specialist
Eleven qualified collectively bringing paramedics will 51 years of paramedic strengthen frontline experience to emergency ambulance Ambulance Tasmania. services across “These paramedics Tasmania, with seven joining Ambulance recruits set to be Tasmania will play based in stations an important role in across the South, one delivering life-saving in the North, and care to the Tasmanian three in the North community,’’ Minister West. for health, mental The commencement health and wellbeing of these eleven Bridget Archer said. qualified paramedics “We are delivering brings the total on our commitment to number of new recruit more qualified paramedics welcomed paramedics, who bring to the service in 2026 significant and diverse to 75, comprising experience with them of 42 graduate to the job. paramedics andat33 “We day are Bucaan Community House members and supporters a recent celebration qualified paramedics. strengthening our This latest cohort ambulance services of paramedics have all right across the relocated to Tasmania State by recruiting, from interstate or retaining, and overseas, including supporting our valued four from the UK paramedic workforce.” and New Zealand,
The newly qualified Ambulance Tasmania paramedics
Aboriginal businesses on show ABORIGINAL owned opportunities for businesses from across businesses to secure Tasmania came together contracts and build in Hobart last week for relationships with larger a showcase celebrating organisations. local entrepreneurship, The Palawa Business creativity and business Hub works to support growth. Aboriginal and Hosted by the Palawa Torres Strait Islander Business Hub, the 2026 entrepreneurs across Aboriginal Business Lutruwita/Tasmania, Showcase was held at providing access to Princes Wharf 1 on mentoring, business Thursday, 29 October, advice, professional as part of Aboriginal development Business Month. and networking The annual event opportunities. brought together The organisation Aboriginal business also helps connect owners, makers, Aboriginal businesses artists, entrepreneurs, with potential buyers consultants and and supports aspiring tradespeople entrepreneurs looking Enrico Palermo to - Northern Suburbs specialist showcase their to establish their own products, services and ventures. TALK to Enrico Palermo market trends. achievements. The showcase about your property’s Whether youformed are value. thinking of selling, Visitors had the part of broader efforts Enrico cantoanalyse want Aboriginal real estate opportunity meet tosimply strengthen recent localbehind sales or advice orparticipation are curious the people the economic estimate your return on while about your home’s businesses, discover recognising investment specific current worth, reach out locally madeon products the contribution renovations. for a no-obligation and artwork, and learn oftoday AboriginalKeyabout factors discussion. more the growing owned businesses Contact Enrico influencing the value diversity of Tasmania’s to Tasmania’s include location, size, Palermo Property Aboriginal business communities and Agent upgrades and current 0434 060 041 sector. industries. The showcase also The event was provided an opportunity supported by the City for businesses to of Hobart, Tasmanian connect with potential Government, customers, government TM Management representatives and Group, TasPorts, industry organisations, Commonwealth Bank helping to create new and the National partnerships and Indigenous Australians opportunities for Agency. growth. For more information A key focus of the about the Palawa event was encouraging Business Hub and its greater engagement programs visit www. with Aboriginal palawahub.com.au suppliers, including
Your local northern suburbs property specialist With 13 years of local real estate experience, I know what it takes to achieve outstanding results across Hobart’s Northern Suburbs. From Moonah to Brighton and beyond, I offer honest advice, strong negotiation skills, and personalised service backed by the trusted team at our new Montrose office. Fall Real Estate 493 Main Road Montrose 03 6282 8010
Enrico Palermo 0434 060 041 enrico@fall.com.au
The 2026 Palawa Business Hub at Waterside Pavillion
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6 Hobart Observer NOVEMBER 2026
Community News
Wooden Boat Festival unveils 2027 program
The Hobart Waterfront during the 2025 Australian Wooden Boat Festival
HUNDREDS of wooden vessels from across Australia and overseas will descend on Hobart’s waterfront next February, with the program for the 2027 Australian Wooden Boat Festival officially launched. Running from 5 to 8 February, the four-day festival will celebrate Tasmania’s maritime heritage, bringing together historic fishing boats, trading vessels, yachts, tall ships and traditional sailing craft.
The 2027 festival will centre on the theme Working Boats, highlighting the vessels that have transported people and cargo, supported livelihoods and connected communities for generations. International vessels from Bali, Sulawesi, Taiwan, Japan and New Zealand are also expected to take part. Festival director Paul Stephanus said the theme would provide an opportunity to celebrate
the history of working vessels and the people behind them. “Our Working Boats theme celebrates the wooden boats that earn their keep, carry people and cargo, and connect communities,” he said. “Every vessel has a story, and we’re looking forward to bringing those stories together on Hobart’s waterfront, whether they’ve sailed across oceans or just around the corner.” The festival will feature
returning favourites including the Shipwrights Village, Noisy Boatyard, Wooden Boat Symposium, Little Sailors Village and Maritime Marketplace. Visitors can also enjoy traditional boatbuilding demonstrations, maritime talks, heritage exhibitions, live entertainment, film, theatre and hands-on workshops. One of the festival’s most recognisable vessels, the historic May
Queen, has been chosen as the centrepiece of the official 2027 festival poster. The artwork, created by New Zealand marine artist A.D. Blake, depicts the vessel sailing past Tasman Island, heavily laden and bound for Hobart. Australia’s oldest trading vessel still afloat, May Queen spent more than a century transporting timber, apples and quarried stone along
Tasmania’s rivers and coastline. Today, the vessel is maintained by volunteers and is a familiar sight at Constitution Dock. The program was officially launched at Hobart’s Waterside Pavilion on 29 October, where an expanded partnership between the City of Hobart and the festival was also announced. The new six-year agreement will secure
council support for the 2027, 2029 and 2031 festivals. The Australian Wooden Boat Festival is the largest celebration of wooden boats and maritime culture in the Southern Hemisphere, attracting more than 56,000 visits during its 2025 event. Entry to the 2027 festival is free with the full program and further information available at www. awbf2027.org.au
Award-winning trio brings fantasy folk to Hobart AWARD winning Tasmanian folk trio PALENCIA will bring their unique blend of storytelling and music to Hobart as part of a five-concert statewide tour. The group, comprising University of Tasmania Bachelor of Music students Amity Hutton, Emily Oates and Christian Palencia will perform at the Ian Potter Recital Hall at The Hedberg on Monday 9 November. The tour follows PALENCIA’s recent win of the 2026 Ossa Music Prize valued at $14,500 and including a fully funded statewide tour. The trio will perform songs from their debut album Westerly, a collection of fantasy love songs featuring intricate arrangements and signature vocal harmonies. The fairytaleinspired album tells the story of a lazy Conservatorium of Music students Amity Hutton, Emily Oates and Christian Palencia
blacksmith who falls in love with an inventor attempting to bottle lightning to create a new form of energy. “Each song is a chapter of a larger story with the intention of spreading awareness of neurodivergence, inclusion and culture,” Ms Oates said. PALENCIA formed at the University of Tasmania’s Conservatorium of Music 18 months ago and has since developed a distinctive folk sound inspired by storytelling and place. “Our music draws a lot of inspiration from place so we’re very excited to see how the band is influenced by our travel around the state,” Ms Hutton said. The tour will take the trio to Queenstown, Burnie, Launceston, Swansea and Hobart. Mr Palencia said the experience would also provide inspiration for
the group’s next album, Southerly. “I’m preparing to write our next album, Southerly, which is inspired by my time in Tasmania,” he said. “This tour will give me an edge with actual lived experience to inform the songs so I’m elated at this opportunity.” Established in 2018, the Ossa Music Prize supports emerging musicians studying at the University of Tasmania. PALENCIA will perform at the Ian Potter Recital Hall, The Hedberg, on Monday, 9 November at 6pm. Tickets are free but bookings are essential due to limited seating. Visit utas.edu.au/ events to reserve a place. Westerly will be released on Bandcamp on 6 November and other streaming platforms on 27 November.
Glenorchy Gazette OCTO
Community News CommunityNews News Community
Hobart Observer NOVEMBER 2026 7 Glenorchy Gazette OCTOBER 2026 17
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Glenorchy’s The Thecommunity champions recognised in Parliament
needed help, and matters. others firewood2029. for patients. enough to manage. is part of belonging to a andprofessional helped make 130 years keep doing language and help them at Home, from 1 visit cannot connection, home For for the more than doing what THE outstanding awards. was acknowledged offeredOver what they could. Community fundraising A lift to an community, not a favour replace the familiarity of care possible. to them. choose support that addsIt is also October personal care maintenance and 830,000 Australians who the past year, his leadership contributions of “These awards at the As The District Nurses helped put our nurses on appointment. Bringing reserved for someone of a friend dropping a reminder that this has Glenorchy’s volunteers, celebrate peoplesignifi whosecant aged Tasmanian If you rec to their lives—without services will also be relyTransport on it, that brings personal care. These however, celebrates 130 years, that the road. in the bins. Making time else. in. Together, they offer always been a shared advocates and community leadership, compassion Museumwelcome and his certainty. diminishing their services and supports are practical, fully funded for eligible care reform has required story feels as relevant Practical help, offered for a conversation, then Professional care is one something neither can story, much bigger than leaders were recently and commitment are dedication The to preserving what the ex independence, identity or participants with available but their value extends extension also many older Tasmanians as ever. It speaks to generously. A warmer remembering to ask again part of that community of provide alone. any one organisation. recognised in Tasmania’s making a better and sharing Glenorchy’s sense of possibility. far beyond the task itself.At Thefunding. andGlenorchy their families to home. Benjamin Jardine, CEO, something Tasmanians Aprotects nurse ablecontinuity, to next week. These gestures support. District We do not all have From a gift of eggs means for y Legislative Council. place for everyone,” Ms history. Contributions remain They canand help someone and the navigate Benjamin The DistrictJardine, Nurses CEO, can take pride unfamiliar in: a reach thechoice next patient. say something simple Nurses, we are proud the same time, moneyCHSP and to a Support meal at the door, with your p Independent Thomas said. Citizen of the Year Tasmania community coming People doing their part people so important: you matter,energy,to bring our nursing or capacity to give. at ButHome are the diff thread is the same: before maki The District Nurses erent higher for everyday living conserve relationships have programs, language and Member for Elwick “Bringing some of Ant Edler was celebrated together to look after its someonebuilt else with was not left andand you have notactive, been maintain and care expertise generosity has never had Tasmanians looking after Tasmania decisions. U programs, but they share services such as domestic stay funding arrangements. the services Bec Thomas delivered the recipients into the for his work with IN 1914, a group of own. to struggle alone. forgotten. alongside the families, just one form. Sometimes Tasmanians. We are your option an important purpose: assistance and gardening. relationships and workers they know. The introduction of A LONGER life is a gift. a Special Interest Parliament and placing the Tasmanian Bike children from Margate Our history holds many That same spirit lives in We all need a helping friends, neighbours and it starts with noticing an proud to play our part, confidence— helping older Australians The right arrangement participate in community at Home It means more years theirSupport Matter contribution achievements on in Collective,People throughreceiving CHSP make the unusual such examples. In 1957, the everyday things that hand sometimes. volunteers who help absence, making a call alongside you. congratulating the the public record2025 was a was one which hecan hascontinue mentored with familiar stay healthy, independent will depend on your life. 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A neighbour’s Our anniversary is do, it is who we are. years ahead Awards and sharing their recognition it deserves.” skills, confi dence and Ageing sh financiala situation. communities that give life At its best, into a diff erent in decades, love. A small gift, but a hot water bottles,replacing while left at the door when a program. needs others around us. early kindness cannotyour replace chance to thank the achievements with the Young Citizen of the community connections. familiar someone the Apex Club chopped Looking after one another skilled nursing, What and a mattersTasmanians meaning. be reduced is having who have support is quiet but That than matters because the former Home Care family has more “Liveidea: your life while Parliament. Year Neil Richardson Ms Thomas thanked needs. It is t For 130 years, that has the information and powerful. It preserves ageing is personal. There Short- Glenorchy you haveaward it. 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C The programs, funding trusted advice becomes for as long as possible. person’s goals and HomeYouth Support Nightingale of the Year Anthony Local Heroesremained Ben to submit a a vital role i models and terminology so important. Support at Home building or CHSP, in the timecircumstances, Ageing is a natural Edler, Senior Citizen of Wilson and Grace nomination. ensure thos At The District Nurses, have changed enormously on their strengths rather offers a broader model part of that longer life. place. Its role is vital: the Year Jeff Bronstein, Chia were honoured nominee has since our first district years are liv we know that aged care for people with more taking over. It should providing modest, early- “Everythan It is not something to Young Citizen of the for supporting young helped strengthen our independen nurse began visiting terminology, funding and complex needs, with protect what matters to stage support before fear or apologise for, Year Neil Richardson and people, migrants and community, often through and joy. Tasmanians in their changing government funding and contributions them and help and Local needing small challenges become joint Herosupport Award underrepresented many years of quiet and ensure a Because c homes in 1896. varying according to the programs can feel barriersmembers to living well. dedicated longer lifeMs remains rich along the way should not community recipient Ben Wilson. service,” others isn’t overwhelming. What has not changed services a person receives. Federal feel Msconfronting. Thomas also The throughThe education, Thomaswith said. joy and meaning. recognised mentoring, creativehas now “Their achievements do, it is who is the value of the right Our role is to sit Clinical services such CHSP can assist Government right helpjoint can Local sustain Hero Grace Chia confidence opportunities andthat CHSP will remind us thatcleaning, meals, support, offered at the alongside people, explain as nursing are fully with confirmed independence, and programs. greatestsocial the options in plain right time, to help people transport, funded under Support andcongratulated the freedomallto keep inclusive continue until 30 June Glenorchy’s nominees and volunteers Senior Citizen of strength is its people.” acknowledged the Artthe Year Jeff Category winnersthrough at the Youth Exhibition heldBronstein at the Moonah Arts Centre
Young artists envision a climate-safe Tasmania
Four decades of supporting Tasmania’s Foster and Kinship Ca
YOUNG Tasmanian artworks reflecting their Parka and Vibrance. provided an opportunity to pursue their creative hoped to inspire Tasmanians and work artists have shared their hopes for a climate-safe The competition to recognise emerging interests. community leaders and towards the futures Ben Wilson, MemberThrough for Elwickthe Bec Thomas, Ant Edler, Craigrepresentatives Farrell MLC, Rhonda McGuire, Neil imagined. Richardson and visions of a climate-safe future, with entries was supported by local artistic talentIndependent and elected they had THE remarkable stability and belonging. the story of former foster child can stay with them essential to supporting Jeff Bronstein future through a special divided into two artist Bohie Blackwood, encourage young people competition, organisers to listen to young contribution of Moonah Tasmania’s categories: “Foster and kinship who created child Sally Gordon, who for an entire lifetime,” Ms children. exhibition at the students the event’s foster and kinship carers agedcarers something returned Chigwell Thomas said. “Carers take Arts Centre. 15 to provide 18 and young poster and servedtoas 23 October, people aged upprecious, to 25 a judge,more alongside isHeld beingoncelebrated as incredibly a safe than 50 years after “To have welcomed so on enormous the whohome, were no longer theexhibition Foster and Kinship care, connection Josh Pringle livingfrom with Corrie and her many children into their responsibility, often showcased the work of attending school. Wild, Carers Association and the reassurance thatKeep a Tassie husband as a young child. home and family over so at very challenging of 10 finalists in a The 10 finalists came orpermaculture educator If you’re still chewing long after everyone else has finished, you’ve quietly started Tasmania (FKAT) marked child has someone in their Sally described her time many years is an incredible moments in a child’s statewide poster from communities Hannah Moloney and avoiding steak, apples, corn on thecorner,” cob and she crusty bread, it’s not just inconvenient. its 40th anniversary with said. with the Bartle family contribution to our life, and they need competition encouraging across northern and photojournalist Jillian Struggling to Tasmania chew properly can push“Much people of toward softer, less nutritious foods, and home” events across what carers do as her “happy community. to know that the young people aged 15 southern Tasmania, with Mundy. over time that can mean missing out on fibre, proteinaround and key vitaminsand yourrecalled body the sense of throughout September. happens quietly, “Corrie represents the community and our to 25 to imagine what their artworks exploring Planet Song also needs. FKAT is Tasmania’s kitchen tables, on school security she experienced very best of the generosity, systems are standing Tasmania could look like the possibilities for a contributed as inpeak 40 years. more sustainable future. curators. Badly fitting or ageing dentures are one of most common exhibition (and most fixable) causes body representing runs, at the appointments there. compassion and behind them,” she said. The competition were Organisers said the the two of this. digital denturesWinners are designed forthe a stronger, more even bite, so you foster andModern kinship carers, and through countless By the time commitment we see from “Congratulations to was organised by the the foods recognised during aimed giveCorrie can get back to eating you actually enjoy,a and getting the nutrition youto need. providing advocacy, everyday moments that initiative were reunited, foster and kinship carers FKAT on 40 years of Tasmanian Conservation presentation at the young Tasmanians support, information, had taken in nearly 100 across Tasmania.” giving carers a voice, Book your appointment today! help a child feel safe and Trust, Sustainable exhibition, with first, a platform to education and valued. children over more than FKAT also operates advocating for change Living Tasmania’s second and third-place express their hopes Hobart or opportunities for carers to prizes awarded “Forty years of advocacy five decades the Foster and Kinship and helping Tasmania’s Youth Climate Leaders in both and ambitions for and had Huonville have a voice in decisions and support through FKAT become aff ectionately Care Advocacy and foster and kinship program and the categories. the environment, 0405 412 564 affreception@detaildentures.com.au ecting them and the is a and wonderful known as the “Godmother Support Team, known families navigate both Tasmanian University Cash vouchermilestoneparticularly amid Environment were supported about children and Society. young people prizes and a chance for all of usgrowing to ofconcerns Chigwell”. as FAST, which provides the joys and challenges www.detaildentures.com.au by Fullers Bookshop, climate change. inParticipants their care. were say thank you.” Remarkably, when peer support, advice and of caring. invited to create Member Nolan Among Art Gallery, The exhibition alsothem down Independent the Red Sally tracked advocacy to carers. “Most importantly,
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for Elwick Bec Thomassaid the anniversary was an important opportunity to recognise not only FKAT, but the generations of carers who have opened their homes and hearts to children needing safety,
extraordinary carers from the Glenorchy community is Chigwell’s Corrie Bartle, whose story demonstrates the profound and lasting difference family-based care can make. In 2021, the ABC told
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more than 50 years later, The service was thank you to every Corrie and John were still established in 2005 in foster and kinship carer, providing foster care. response to carers wanting past and present, who “Corrie and John’s story support from people with has made room in their is extraordinary, but what Essential their own port experience of home,works their family and infrastructure are underway at I love most about it is the Macquarie foster and kinship care. their heart for a child Wharf 6 as part of the Macquarie Wharf reminder that the kindness Redevelopment. Ms Thomas said who needed them.” FKAT CEO Kim2026 Backhouse, Corrie Bartle and Indep WEDNESDAY, WEDNESD DAY, 28 OCTO OCTOBER OBER These works will deliver a purpose-built and security offered to a supporting carers was for Elwick Bec Thomas
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8 Hobart Observer NOVEMBER 2026
Community News
Most people know St John. Fewer know what we do.
Community Care team member Grace Wilson with former volunteer Pete Fitzgerald
WHEN most people think of St John, they think of first aid training, event health services and emergency response. What many don’t realise is that St John also helps older
Tasmanians stay connected to their communities through the Community Care program. Every day, Community Care volunteers provide transport and
companionship for people attending medical appointments, shopping trips, social activities and other important engagements. For many clients, the service is about more
than getting from A to B. It helps people maintain their independence, confidence and connection to the community. One of those
volunteers was Peter Fitzgerald, who recently hung up his St John uniform after 12 years of service. After retiring from a career as a taxi driver, Peter was looking for a meaningful way to
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stay active and give back. “I love meeting new people and driving, so this was ideal for me,” Peter said. During his time with St John, Peter helped countless Tasmanians get where they needed to go, while providing a friendly face and conversation along the way. As Tasmania’s population ages and demand for support services continues to grow, St John is looking for more volunteers to follow in Peter’s
footsteps. Community Care volunteers come from all walks of life. No medical training or emergency services experience is required, just a willingness to help others and a few hours to spare. Whether you’re retired, semi-retired or simply looking for a meaningful way to give back, there’s a place for you at St John. Learn more at stjohntas.org.au/ volunteer
Hobart Observer NOVEMBER 2026 9
Community News
Tasmania through a different lens
David Pyefinch, 2026, Dusty memories AFTER four decades working in film and television, Hobart artist David Pyefinch is taking a different approach to photography in a new exhibition exploring Tasmania’s landscapes through memory and imagination. Lost Worlds, which opened at the Salamanca Arts Centre on 31 October, features large-scale photographic works that transform familiar Tasmanian locations into
dreamlike, impressionistic landscapes. From kunanyi/Mount Wellington to Lauderdale, the exhibition uses soft focus, blurred imagery and layered transparencies to capture the feeling of a place rather than its precise appearance. Mr Pyefinch said returning to art school after a 40-year career in film and television had inspired him to rethink his creative practice. “Returning to art school
David Pyefinch, 2026, Day for night, kunanyi after forty years was a return to self,” he said. “At a time when so many of us are trying to find something worthwhile scrolling through endless screens, I found mine by making physical things again.” Rather than relying on digital processing, Mr Pyefinch creates his works using physical transparencies and in-camera photographic techniques. The approach marks
a departure from his professional background, where technical precision and sharp imagery were central to his work. “After four decades in film and television where sharp focus and snappy visual language are everything, there was something immensely satisfying about stepping away from that precision,” Mr Pyefinch said. “Using soft focus, blur and physical layers to see Tasmania not as a crisp
tourist postcard, but as an impression I felt through time and memory.” Mr Pyefinch, who is currently completing a Bachelor of Fine Arts at the University of Tasmania, said the exhibition was also an exploration of how people remember places and experiences. “We can’t easily describe what happens inside the mind with a single, sharp frame,” he said. “Lost Worlds became
St David’s Park celebrates 100 years
An early image of St Davids Park after its establishment in 1926
a journey to explore what memory looks like internally, translating those half-formed, atmospheric moments into a visual language that appears dreamlike and otherworldly to the viewer.” Mr Pyefinch has previously exhibited at the Rosny Schoolhouse Gallery and the University of Tasmania’s Sunroom Gallery and won the Best Photography Prize at the Rotary Art Prize in both
2024 and 2025. Lost Worlds is on display at the Top Gallery Level 2 of the Salamanca Arts Centre until 22 November. The exhibition is open Monday to Friday from 10am to 4pm, Saturday from 9.30am to 3pm and Sunday from 10am to 2pm. Admission is free. For more information visit www.davidpyefinch. com
ONE of Hobart’s most historic parks will celebrate its 100th anniversary with a free garden party, inviting residents to step back in time and discover its fascinating past. The City of Hobart will host the celebration at St David’s Park on Friday, 13 November, featuring live music, Devonshire tea and actors dressed in period costumes. A brass band will perform from the park’s iconic rotunda, while visitors can enjoy the gardens and learn about the site’s history. The event will also feature a ceremonial planting of two young giant sequoia trees, replacing two trees lost earlier this year. While St David’s Park has been a popular green space for generations, its history stretches back much further than its transformation into a public park. Originally established as Hobart’s first European burial ground in 1804 by Reverend Robert Knopwood, the site served as a cemetery until its closure in 1872. By the early 20th century, the former burial ground had fallen into disrepair, prompting plans to transform it into a landscaped public space. The park was designed
in the 1920s by Leslie Lipscombe, Hobart City Council’s first superintendent of reserves, who envisioned a formal English-style garden with sweeping lawns, ornamental trees and flower beds. Today, the park is home to towering English elms, historic funeral cypress trees and Canary Island date palms, some dating back to Lipscombe’s original planting. Visitors can also explore the park’s historic wall of headstones, which preserves reminders of Hobart’s colonial past. Two flowering blue gums recognise the site’s significance to Tasmanian Aboriginal people, including one planted in 2020 at the request of the Tasmanian Aboriginal Heritage Council. The park’s entrance is also guarded by two historic stone lions, originally carved in 1884 for the Bank of Van Diemen’s Land building and gifted to Hobart in 1988. The centenary garden party will run from 10am to 1pm on Friday 13 November. Attendance is free, but bookings are encouraged through www.events. humanitix.com/st-david-spark-100th-birthday-gardenparty
10 Hobart Observer NOVEMBER 2026
Community News
University secures key role in $5m ARC space centre
The University of Tasmania’s Greenhill Observatory
THE University of Tasmania will help Australia track satellites, space debris and other hazards as one of three university nodes in a new $5 million ARC Training Centre. The five-year Centre will bring PhD candidates and a postdoctoral researcher to Tasmania and help build missioncontrol capability to coordinate spacemonitoring operations. Led by the University of Western Australia in
partnership with the University of Tasmania and UNSW Canberra, the ARC Training Centre for Space Domain Awareness will involve 22 national and international partner organisations. Contributions from the universities and partners bring its total value to $20 million. Satellites enable navigation for ships, aircraft and vehicles, connect remote communities, support weather forecasting and
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monitor changes on Earth. UTAS School of Natural Sciences Research Space Scientist Dr Guifré Molera Calvés said Australia needed a clearer picture of what was happening in space. “Space is becoming more crowded, more strategically important and increasingly complex to manage,” he said. “To protect the services we depend on every day, we need to know what is in orbit,
where the objects are heading and whether they pose a risk to satellites, infrastructure or other space users.” The Centre will integrate data from sensors across Australia to provide a more comprehensive picture of activity in orbit. It will unite industry, launch companies, satellite providers, government organisations and universities in a coordinated national approach to space
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surveillance and tracking. The University team includes Dr Molera Calvés, Adjunct Professor Tony Press from the Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies (IMAS), and Professor Jeffrey McGee from IMAS and Law. Professor McGee said managing an increasingly busy space environment will require international cooperation as well as better technology. “As more governments and private companies
use space, international rules must keep pace with the emerging risks and opportunities,” he said. The Tasmania-based researchers will work with more than 10 industry partners across Australia, Finland, Japan, the United Kingdom and the United States. “This is an opportunity to train a new generation of space researchers in Tasmania while building the capability Australia
will need in the years ahead,” Dr Molera Calvés said. “They will work on an international challenge from Tasmania, alongside leading researchers and industry partners around the world.” The Australian Research Council will provide $5 million over five years to the Centre through its Industrial Transformation Research Program.
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Hobart Observer NOVEMBER 2026 11
Community News
A handmade Christmas comes to Hobart’s waterfront
Stallholder displays at a recent Tasmanian Made Market
CHRISTMAS shopping meets festive family fun when the Tasmanian Made Christmas Festival returns to PW1 in Hobart on 5 to 6 December. Over 150 makers will come together for
a weekend celebrating Tasmanian creativity, offering shoppers the opportunity to discover thoughtful handmade gifts and meet the people who create them. For anyone looking
for something special, the festival is a chance to step away from the usual shopping routine and explore the imagination, skill and individuality of local makers. Every purchase helps
A Green Rosella. Photo credit: Simon Andrews
Bird of the Month: Green Rosella ONE of Tasmania’s most colourful residents, the Green Rosella is a bird found nowhere else in the world. Endemic to Tasmania, the Green Rosella is the largest of Australia’s rosellas and is easily recognised by its yellowgreen plumage, striking blue cheeks and wings and bright red forehead. These beautiful parrots
are commonly found in woodlands, forests, parks and gardens where they feed on seeds, fruits, flowers and other plant material, both in trees and on the ground. Despite their vibrant appearance, Green Rosellas can be surprisingly difficult to spot among the foliage. However, their distinctive calls often give
away their presence. Protecting Tasmania’s native forests and mature, hollow-bearing trees is essential for birds like the Green Rosella, which rely on tree hollows for nesting. Planting native vegetation in your garden can also help provide food and habitat for local wildlife.
support a small business and keeps the spirit of making alive in Tasmania. There is plenty for families to enjoy, too. Santa will be joining the festivities, GlitterArtzy Face Painting will add a splash of colour,
and visitors can meet the baby goats. A children’s choir will bring Christmas cheer, while great food provides the perfect excuse to pause between browsing the stalls. Held predominantly
indoors at PW1, the festival offers a festive day out on Hobart’s waterfront, whatever the weather. Bring your Christmas list, gather the family and enjoy a weekend of handmade discoveries, delicious food
and seasonal fun. The Tasmanian Made Christmas Festival is open from 9am to 4pm on Saturday 5 and Sunday 6 December 2026 at PW1, Hobart. Entry is free.
12 Hobart Observer NOVEMBER 2026
Electric vehicles are driving Tasmania forward
The exterior of an ev
The interior of an ev
Australian Electric Vehicle Association State Director and Branch Chair Jon Ettershank ELECTRIC vehicles aren’t the future anymore, they’re the present. And here in Tasmania, they’re quietly becoming one of the most practical, affordable and enjoyable ways to get around. Tasmania has added more than 2,700 new electric vehicles in the past 12 months, a 51 per cent increase, and one of the strongest per capita adoption rates in the country. As Chair of the Australian Electric Vehicle Association (AEVA) Tasmania, I get to see this transition up close. Not through marketing or hype, but through the lived
experience of thousands of Tasmanians who drive EVs every day, commuting, exploring, towing, camping, and travelling across the state with ease. AEVA has been around since 1973, formed during the oil shocks when Australians first realised how vulnerable we were to imported fuel. That vulnerability hasn’t gone away. Tasmania still imports over $1.4 billion of petrol and diesel every year, according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics’ International Trade in Goods and Services dataset (fuel imports category, 2023–24). That’s money leaving Tasmania, over $5,400 per household each year, and
Charging stations across the northern suburbs
every EV on the road keeps more of that value circulating locally, supporting Tasmanian jobs, businesses and our own renewable energy. But the real story, the one that matters to readers, is how EVs fit into everyday life. Most Tasmanian EV owners charge at home, often from rooftop solar. That means starting each day with a “full tank” for a fraction of the cost of petrol or diesel. Public charging has expanded rapidly too, with reliable fast chargers now covering every major region of the state. A trip from Hobart to Launceston, Devonport or the East Coast is simple, predictable and inexpensive.
We’re also seeing EVs become more accessible. The used EVmarket is growing, prices are coming down, and new models are arriving with longer range and lower running costs. The cheapest new car in Australia is now an electric vehicle, priced under twenty thousand dollars. For many households, the maths has shifted. An EV is now the cheapest vehicle to own over its lifetime. Beyond the numbers, EVs are simply enjoyable to drive. Quiet, smooth, responsive, they make everyday trips feel calmer. And for families, the safety ratings are consistently among the highest in the market. It’s why so many new EVdrivers talk about
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the “EV grin” they can’t wipe off their face and why the most consistent feedback we hear is that they wish they had made the switch earlier. AEVA’s role is to help people understand this transition without the jargon and without the misinformation that often circulates online. We’re a volunteer run, independent organisation made up of real EV drivers with real world experience. We publish practical resources like the Little Book of EV Myths to help Tasmanians separate fact from fiction. Our members share their realworld experience, the good, the bad, and the practical. Tasmania is uniquely
positioned to lead Australia in electric transport. We have clean energy, short travel distances, strong community interest, and a growing network of chargers. Every EV on the road strengthens our energy resilience and independence and keeps more value in the state. If you’d like to learn more, find us online at aeva.asn.au, follow us on the socials, or chat with one of our members. The transition is happening, and it’s happening faster than many people realise. Electric vehicles work brilliantly in Tasmania. And they’re ready for anyone who wants to make the switch, and AEVA is ready to help make that easy.
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Hobart Observer NOVEMBER 2026 13
North Hobart is home to Australia’s first electric hire campervans TASMANIA’S first fully electric rental campervan took to the road from a small depot on Elizabeth Street, North Hobart. Today, five of the 15 vans in the Tasvanlife fleet run on battery power alone. Founder Paul moved from Sydney after finding himself coming back to Tasmania again and again and said the island was almost made for electric touring. “Our power is renewable, the distances are short, and there are chargers right around the state now,” he said. “Gliding silently through the bush or down to the Tasman Peninsula is a completely different experience from sitting on top of a diesel engine.” Every van carries a palawa kani name taken from a Tasmanian place. The electric vans are Natunu, Yingina, Lukrita, Wukina and Tipina, and the interiors are fitted out with Tasmanian timbers including Tassie oak and celery-top pine. Charging during the hire is covered by Interior of Tasmania’s first 100 per cent electric campervan
Tasvanlife, so guests don’t pay for power along the way. Each van features a comfy bed, heater, induction stove, sink, cooking equipment, pantry, hot water, toilet, shower and a large 6ft underbed storage area. Tasvanlife’s guests mostly come from the mainland, yet Paul believes Tasmanians themselves are the island’s best ambassadors. “If you’ve got friends or family flying over this summer, an electric campervan is a brilliant way for them to see Tasmania properly,” Paul said. “And it works just as well for a weekend away closer to home.” Every hirer also receives access to the Tasvanlife Hidden Gems Map, a curated guide to lesser-known spots, along with discounts for them and services on demand. Campervans can be viewed and booked at https://www.tasvanlife. com/electric-campervans
14 Hobart Observer NOVEMBER 2026
Every cat has a story.
Are you part of it?
ADOPT
Adoption is the only option! Find your purr-fect match at Ten Lives! Every cat comes desexed, microchipped, vaccinated, and ready to fill your life with love, cuddles and plenty of purrsonality!
Every cat has a story.
Are you part of it?
DONATE
Your help means hope for kitties in need. Ten Lives is a not-for-profit local animal charity, sustained by fundraising initiatives like our op shops, along with the continued support of the wider community.
Every cat has a story.
Are you part of it?
FOSTER
Open your heart and your home! Our foster care program plays an essential role in preparing kitties for their forever homes. You don’t have to foster full-time — a short stay can make a big difference!
Former Ten Lives resident Frankfurt
Ahoy, Frankie! Your forever home awaits
A BLACK cat with a tattered ear and an unchanging face sits purring into the chair he has claimed as his own. Surrounded by love in his affectionate new fur-ever home, Frankfurt’s adoption journey with Ten Lives reached a happy conclusion earlier this year and the news caused an outpouring of celebration from followers and supporters of Frankfurt’s journey. You see, he became a bit of a celebrity on our social media due to his constant grumpy expression. Frankfurt entered our care
back in November of 2025. Months went by as Frankfurt waited for adoption. Partly because he was shy and would only come out if you spent extra time with him, partly because he needed a home with no other cats or dogs. But when visitors took the time, his true colours as a sweet, affectionate gentleman shined through. Eventually, Frankfurt grew a following; regular visitors that wanted to say hi to him, and social media commenters who adored him and wanted nothing but
the best for Frankfurt. “I would adopt him in a heartbeat if I could,” one user said. Please give beautiful Frankfurt a second chance at life, please give him a loving, kind and caring forever home, he’s a stunning black beauty,” another said. The decision to move him to the Marketing Office benefited Frankfurt greatly. The move helped him to fully come out of his shell and fast tracked his adoption through promotion. Outside of the adoption kennels, Frankfurt could finally bath in the spotlight as
the centre of attention. He would ‘cheep’ to get attention, was in heaven when receiving smooches and had the most heartmelting gentle purr. Finally, the day of adoption came for Frankfurt, and our team and all of our followers were so happy for him. We recently received an update from his new owners, and it seems like he’s settling in and making the place his own. “Frankie has a “spot” in our lounge room and loves to sit with our family,” the owners said.
“He and our son have become buddies and love to lie on the bed and chill. “Affectionately known as “Pirate Frankie” due to his never changing expression and tattered ear, he is a beloved part of our family.” We need your support to help cats like Frankfurt find their happily ever after. Whether you make a donation, volunteer your time or become a foster carer, you can help us give more cats the care they need and the chance to find a loving home.
Every cat has a story.
Are you part of it?
VOLUNTEER
Join us to make a real impact. Volunteering at Ten Lives is a rewarding way to make a real difference for cats and kittens — and be an important part of their journey to loving forever homes.
Hobart Observer NOVEMBER 2026 15
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Are you considering solar?
WITH longer daylight hours and warmer months approaching, many Tasmanians are considering if generating energy with rooftop solar is the right solution for their property and household budget. More than one in four Tasmanian homes have embraced rooftop solar and interest continues to grow as households look for practical ways to help reduce their energy bills, lower their environmental impact and
gain energy independence. As Tasmania’s energy retailer and a trusted source of energy advice, Aurora Energy is helping customers navigate the growing range of products and technologies available through its free online energy education hub, Generation You. Aurora Energy Chief Executive Officer, Nigel Clark, said Generation You was designed to provide customers with information and practical tools to help them make informed
decisions about new energy technologies, including rooftop solar. “Generation You helps customers understand how products like rooftop solar may fit their household needs, energy usage and budget,”he said. Before investing in a solar system, Aurora Energy encourages customers to do their research and consider a range of factors that can influence performance and savings. Aurora Energy’s three top
solar research tips: 1. Understand your energy use Review your household’s average energy consumption to determine the size of the solar system you need. This information can be easily accessed by downloading Aurora Energy’s free aurora+ app. 2. Assess your roof The condition and orientation and shading of your roof can significantly affect solar performance. In Tasmania, a north-
facing roof with minimal shading from surrounding buildings or trees is ideal. 3. Compare accredited installers Source quotes from at least three accredited solar installers to compare prices, equipment, warranties and service offerings. Always check that installers are accredited by Solar Accreditation Australia (SAA). For customers seeking additional guidance, Aurora Energy also offers a free
Home Electrification Tool which helps households estimate the cost and benefits of investing in technologies such as rooftop solar. The tool uses pricing information from accredited and vetted installers, enabling customers to compare options and request a call-back if they decide to proceed. Mr Clark said the many benefits of new energy technologies like rooftop solar are not just
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If you’re thinking about installing solar, a home battery, a heat pump or maybe a hot water cylinder, our new online Home Electrification Tool is a free service to help you find the right products. Simply enter your details to calculate your savings and get competitive quotes through trusted and vetted installers across Tasmania. To discover more, visit auroraenergy.com.au/electrification
environmental but also financial. “Tools like Generation You and the Home Electrification Tool offer real opportunities for households to lower energy costs and optimise energy use across households, helping Tasmanians gain more control over their energy future.” For further information visit the Generation You information hub at auroraenergy.com.au/genyou
16 Hobart Observer NOVEMBER 2026
MONEY TALK
Community News
SPEAK UP Stay ChatTY founder Mitch McPherson and Pigeon Whole Bakers co-founder Emma Choraziak-Patey
Baking kindness Do you run a business? into everyday life Hank Jongen General Manager Services Australia HELLO everyone. Running a business doesn’t mean giving up your Age Pension, but it can affect how much you receive. The good news is you don’t have to be fully retired, or have no income, to apply for a pension. You can still earn money from work, including selfemployment. Self-employment can include working as a sole trader or in a partnership. You may also be involved in a private trust or private company. If you’re a sole trader, we look at your business income after allowable business expenses. If you are in a partnership, we assess your share of the business income after allowable business expenses. Different assessment rules apply to private trusts and private companies. Services Australia doesn’t always treat business expenses the same way as the Australian Taxation Office (ATO). The ATO may allow some deductions for tax purposes, but we may treat those expenses differently when working out your pension rate. So, how do you report your business income? If you’ve been self-employed for a while, your tax return and
financial statements may give us the information we need. If you’re starting a new business while getting a payment from Services Australia, we’ll need more information. If your last tax return doesn’t show your new business income, we’ll ask you for a profit and loss statement. This should show what you expect your business to earn and spend in the first 3 months of its operation. After the first 3 months, you’ll need to provide a profit and loss statement showing your actual business income and expenses for that period. You will also need to do this again at six months, nine months and 12 months. Each new profit and loss statement should cover the full period since your business started. Once you have a full year of business income and expenses in your tax return, we can usually use it to assess your income. After that, you should continue to provide us with your tax return and financial statements each year so we can review your business income. You need to tell us within 14 days if your business income changes. For example, if you gain or lose a major contract, you shouldn’t wait until your next tax return. If your business income changes, provide
an updated profit and loss statement so we can assess your current situation. Now, let’s talk about the Work Bonus. The Work Bonus helps reduce the impact that income from work can have on your Age Pension. It applies to eligible income from work, including some business income where the income comes from your personal effort. The Work Bonus does not apply to income you receive from managing investments or renting out a property. New pension customers who are over Age Pension age and granted a pension start with a Work Bonus balance of $4,000. This balance can offset income from work before that income affects your pension rate. In simple terms, if your business profit counts as eligible work income, the Work Bonus may mean that income has less impact on your pension than you expected. Remember, running a business doesn’t mean giving up your Age Pension and the Work Bonus may help you keep more of your pension while you work. Take a moment to check your Work Bonus balance through myGov and keep us updated if your business income changes. Until next time,
H OB A RT bake r y Pig eon W ho le B ake r s has teamed u p w it h m e n t al healt h o r g an isat io n SPEA K UP ! St ay Chat T Y to spread a m essage o f kin d n ess t hro u g h a lim ited -ed ition T-shir t. L au n ched d u r in g Me n t al Healt h Week in O cto be r, t he co llabo rat io n e n co u rages Tasm an ian s to apprec iate t he lit t le t hin gs an d reco g n ise t he d if f e re nc e sm all act s o f kin d n ess can m ake. Feat u r in g t he play f ul m essage t hat w e all ‘ kn ead ’ a lit t le kin d n ess, t he T-shir t has already pro v e n po pu lar, w it h St ay Chat T Y re po r t in g st ro n g d e m an d f o llo wing it s release. A ll pro f it s f ro m sales w ill go to w ard s St ay Chat T Y ’ s w o r k e n co u ragin g o pe n co n v e r sat io n s abo u t m e n t al healt h an d su ppo r t in g Tasm an ians to co n n ect w it h o n e an o t he r. St ay Chat T Y f o u n d e r M itch McPhe r so n said kin d n ess d id n o t hav e to in v o lv e gran d g est u res to m ake a m ean in g f u l d if f e re n ce. “ So m et im es, t he m essages t hat st ick w it h u s t he m o st are th e sim ple o n es t hat m ake u s sm ile,” M r McPhe r son
said. “Kindness doesn’t h ave to b e c omplic ated: it c an b e c h ec king in on someone, making time for a c h at, or doing someth ing th at’ll make someone’s day a lit tle easie r. “Th ose small mome nts of c onnec tion c an mean a lot, partic ularly wh e n someone is h aving a diffic ult time.” Th e c ollab oration reflec ts a sh ared c ommitme nt to c reating welc oming e nvironme nts wh e re people feel c omfortab le c onnec ting and disc ussing me ntal h ealth . P igeon W h ole Bake rs c o-founde rs E mma Ch oraziak-Pate y and Jay Pate y h ave also de monstrated th eir c ommitme nt to staff wellb eing b y regularly e nrolling e mplo yees in Me ntal Health First Aid training th rough S tay Ch atT Y. Ms Ch oraziak-Pate y said small gestures c ould h ave a signific ant impac t, partic ularly wh e n someone was expe rie nc ing c h alle nges th at migh t not b e immediately appare nt. “A kind word, taking th e time to c h ec k in, or simply sh o wing someone a b it of unde rstanding
c an mean more th an we realise,” sh e said. “W h e n kindness b ec omes part of h o w you do b usiness e ve ry day, you c reate a workplac e wh e re people feel valued, not just for th e job th e y do, b ut for wh o th e y are.” Th e limited-edition T-sh irt features an original design b y Hob art-b orn artist D avid Booth , kno wn professionally as G h ostpatrol. No w b ased in Melb ourne, M r Booth h as a longstanding c onnec tion with P igeon W h ole Bake rs, h aving c ontrib uted illustrations and b randing to th e b usiness. He also designed a limited-edition h oodie for S tay Ch atT Y’s S h orts D ay earlie r th is year. Alth ough Me ntal Health Week h as c onc luded, b oth organisations are e nc ouraging Tasmanians to c ontinue making kindness part of th eir e ve ryday lives. Th e o ve rsized unisex T-sh irts are availab le in sizes S to 5XL from P igeon W h ole Bake rs at 32 Argyle S treet, Hob art, or online at www. stayc h at ty.c om.au
Hobart Observer NOVEMBER 2026 17
Community News
Drawing on nature TASMANIA’S unique wildlife is taking centre stage at a new exhibition in Lenah Valley, where Hobart artist Rachel Harris is combining her passion for nature with a background in science. Meet the Wild, Ms Harris’s first solo exhibition, features lifelike drawings of native birds and mammals, created using coloured pencils, graphite and charcoal. Hosted by the Art Society of Tasmania at the historic Lady Franklin Gallery, the exhibition opened on 31 October and will run until 29 November. With a PhD in zoology and a background researching animal behaviour, Ms Harris brings a scientific eye for detail to her artwork, capturing everything from the texture of feathers and fur to the personalities of individual animals. The exhibition explores the connections people form with wildlife, including the memories and
experiences associated with encounters in the natural world. Ms Harris said her love of Tasmania’s wildlife had become central to her artistic practice. “My drawings aren’t just about detail for detail’s sake, they’re about honouring the species we risk losing and encouraging people to look closer at what’s in their own backyards,” she said. Originally from New Zealand, Ms Harris has spent many years living in Hobart, where bushwalking and encounters with native wildlife provide inspiration for her work. After pursuing a career in scientific research and public policy, she rediscovered her passion for drawing in 2020. What began as a creative outlet has since developed into an artistic practice, with her detailed wildlife portraits exhibited locally and internationally. Ms Harris said she hoped her artwork would encourage people to
appreciate and protect Tasmania’s native species. “I see my role as sparking connection, so that care and protection naturally follow,” she said. Conservation is also an important part of her work, with a portion of proceeds from original artworks and prints donated to Tasmanian wildlife conservation organisations. The exhibition was officially opened by ecologist and monotreme expert associate professor Stewart Nicol. Visitors will also have an opportunity to hear from Ms Harris during an artist talk at 2pm on Sunday 8 November. Meet the Wild is open from 11am to 4pm on Saturdays and Sundays until 29 November at the Lady Franklin Gallery, 268 Lenah Valley Road. Original artworks, prints and other gifts will be available for purchase. For more information visit www.rachelharrisart. com.au
Wildlife artist Rachel Harris
Tuesday
Monday
6am: Monday Breakfast with Brett Marley. 9am: Monday Music Mix with Mandi Bennett. Midday: Lunchtime Classics with Rick Rae. 2pm: Music Of Your Life with Suzi Hodgkinson. 4pm:
Reeling in the Years with Dave Batchelor. 6pm: Glenn’s Country with Glenn Gillie. 8pm: Classic Ride with Melvin Freestone. 10pm: Double Or Nothing with Willie Jackson. Midnight: Music of Your Life Overnight.
6am: Wake Up with Kaye Payne. 9am: Bringing Back the Memories with David Carr. Midday: Beat & Ballads with Phil Williams. 2pm: Music Of Your Life with Rebecca Rupel. 4pm: Tuesday Drive with John ‘The Catman’ 6pm: Escape with Margs 8pm: The Late Late Show with Beau Downham. Midnight: Music of Your Life Overnight. Wednesday
6am: Wednesday Breakfast with John Evans. 9am: Bright and Breezy Mix with Kath. Midday: Music of Your Life with Frank
McIvor. 2pm: Music of Your Life Handpicked with Ron Andersen. 4pm: The Johnny Dallas Revival Show with Johnny Dallas. 6pm: Wednesday Night Jukebox with Robbo. 8pm: Country Jukebox with Russell Hevey / Bob Hevey. 10pm: Wednesday Night with Michael Holloway. Midnight: Music of Your Life Overnight. Thursday
6am: Thursday Breakfast with Craig Cracknell. 9am: Magic Music Mix with Tom Payne. Midday: From The 40s to The 00s with Robyn Guy. 2pm: The Music Of Your Life with Kenny
White. 4pm: Thursday Drive with Luca Forest. 6pm: The Serbian Program with Alek Djeric. 7pm: Mandarin and Cantonese. 8pm: Hobart FM Jazz. 10pm: Greek. Midnight: Music of Your Life Overnight. Friday
6am: Rise & Shine with Ria Walter. 9am: Songs & Stories with Brian Corr. Midday: Music of Your Life with Karina Ceron. 2pm: My Favourite Music with Judi Forsyth. 4pm: Friday Drive with Peter Johnston. 6pm: Good Times Rollin’ with Bob Hevey / Russell Hevey. 9pm: Rockin’
On with Wayne Flanagan/Chris Broadby. Midnight: Music Of Your Life Overnight with Craig Cracknell. Saturday
6am: Saturday Breakfast with Chris Burrows. 9am: Polish with Bogdan Piteri. 10am: Croatian with Jelena Cupac. 11am: Greek Program. Midday: World Music with Amanda Sims. 2pm: Music of Your Life with Amanda Sims. 3pm: Music of Your Life with Various Presenters. 6pm: Kickback with Kenny White. 9pm: Kaleidoscope with Danny Sherrin Midnight: Music of Your
Life Overnight. Sunday
6am: Sunday Breakfast with Ian Campbell. 9am: German Program with Karina Ceron. 10am: Spanish Program. 11am: The Irish Show with Brian Corr. Midday: Italian Program with Vic Ferri. 1pm: Nepalese Program with Subin. 2pm: Dove C’e Musica Italiana. 3pm: Music Of Your Life with Tony Geeves. 6pm: Music of Your Life with Craig Cracknell. 8pm: Sunday Night with Serge. Midnight: Music of Your Life Overnight.
18 2026 22 Hobart HobartObserver Observer NOVEMBER OCTOBER 2026 30 Glenorchy Gazette OCTOBER 2026
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Hobart Observer NOVEMBER 2026 19
Sport
Jewels shine in WNBL debut The Tasmania Jewels squad celebrate its first WNBL victory
THE Tasmania Jewels have made a dream start to their Women’s National Basketball League (WNBL) journey, claiming a historic victory in front of a sold-out crowd at MyState Bank Arena. Playing their firstever WNBL match on Thursday 15 October the Jewels defeated the Geelong Venom 103–90, marking a memorable return for Tasmania to Australia’s premier
women’s basketball competition. More than 4,200 fans packed the Glenorchy venue for the occasion, creating an electric atmosphere as the state’s newest sporting team took to the court. While the team lost its second game interstate to Southside 91-75, it defeated the previously undefeated Sydney Uni Flames 93-85 at the revamped Silverdome in Launceston.
Jewels captain Darcee Garbin made history by scoring the club’s first points and went on to finish with 20 points, six rebounds and three assists. American import Gianna Kneepkens also scored 20 points, while Brooke Basham contributed 19 points, eight rebounds and four steals. Australian Opals guard Steph Reid added 17 points and eight assists,
with Keely Froling and Ella Tofaeono scoring 11 points each. The Jewels took control early, establishing a commanding 57–38 lead at half-time. Geelong fought back in the second half, led by Maddison Rocci’s game-high 33 points, but Tasmania held firm to secure a 13-point victory. Head coach Claudia Brassard said she was proud of the team’s
performance in its first competitive outing. “I’m really proud of the effort, really proud of the contributions and every athlete that stepped onto the floor contributed whether that was defensively or offensively,” she said. “It was really a group effort and when they started making that run in the second half, we dug a bit deeper and got connected and came out with some big shots
when it mattered.” The victory marked a significant moment for women’s basketball in Tasmania, with the state returning to the WNBL for the first time in three decades. The Jewels follow in the footsteps of the Hobart Islanders, who competed in the league from 1986 to 1996 and won the championship in 1991. Tasmania Jewels captain Darcee Garbin
said the atmosphere inside MyState Bank Arena made the historic occasion even more special. “I’ve obviously played in some big games with the national team and stuff like that, but that was just unreal,” she said. “I’m so glad that the girls get to experience something like that and that it’s the standard we’re now setting in the WNBL.”
BASKETBALL fans with sensory sensitivities can now enjoy a more comfortable game-day experience at MyState Bank Arena, thanks to an initiative from St Lukes and the Tasmania JackJumpers. The St Lukes Quiet Space provides a dedicated low-sensory environment where fans can take a break from the noise, lights and excitement of NBL and WNBL games. Sensory packs containing earmuffs, sunglasses, fidget toys and blankets are also available to help make the experience more accessible. The initiative forms part of St Lukes’ diversity and inclusion partnership with the JackJumpers. St Lukes chief community engagement officer Shoshana Wall said the initiative would help remove
barriers for fans who might otherwise struggle with the sensory demands of live sport. “The St Lukes Quiet Space at MyState Bank Arena helps ensure more Tasmanians can enjoy being part of the Ant Army in a way that feels comfortable, safe, and supportive for them,” she said. “Sport is for everyone and this initiative levels the playing field for young fans or fans of any age with sensory challenges.” Tasmanian sports commentator Andy “Tubes” Taylor welcomed the initiative, having experienced the challenges of attending games with young children. “As a family we love coming to JackJumpers games, but the lights, music and roar of the crowd can be a lot for any young child,”
he said. “My kids have already benefited from the sensory packs, helping them feel comfortable in the stands. “Now, having a quiet space that’s open to any level of need is fantastic.” JackJumpers chief executive officer Trent Jacobs said the club was committed to making its games more inclusive. “We want our fan experience to be unparalleled and inclusive,” he said. The Quiet Space and sensory packs are available to all attendees at JackJumpers home games and selected family-friendly events at MyState Bank Arena. Fans can request access or collect a sensory pack from the arena’s service desk, with no St Lukes membership or medical diagnosis required.
Quiet space makes game day more inclusive
Nine-year-old JackJumpers fan Toby Stingle and St Lukes chief community engagement officer Shoshana Wall
OBSERVER SPORT 20 Hobart Observer NOVEMBER 2026
2026 Archery Australia National Target and Para Championship competitors at UTAS’ Sandy Bay campus
Australia’s best archers take aim at national championships AUSTRALIA’S top archers descended on Hobart for the 2026 Archery Australia National Target and Para Championships, held from 19 to 24 October. The championships brought together athletes, officials, coaches and supporters from across the country, with the target
and para championships held as a combined event for the first time. Competitors contested national titles across individual and team events. Minister for Sport Nick Duigan welcomed the athletes and said the championships provided
an opportunity for Tasmanians to experience elite-level competition. “These championships bring together some of Australia’s best archers and provide a great opportunity to see elite competition right here in Hobart,” Minister Duigan said.
“Archery demands concentration, discipline and precision, and it is fantastic to see athletes from across the country putting those skills to the test. “Hosting national championships like this also gives more Tasmanians the chance to
experience high-level sport and be inspired to get involved themselves.” Minister for Tourism, Hospitality and Events Roger Jaensch said hosting national sporting events also provided benefits for Tasmania’s tourism and hospitality sectors.
“Sporting events bring visitors to Tasmania, fill our accommodation and hospitality businesses and showcase our State as a great place to visit,” Minister Jaensch said. “Hosting national championships also strengthens Tasmania’s reputation as a
destination capable of delivering high-quality sporting events.” The six-day competition showcased some of Australia’s leading archery talent while providing an opportunity for local spectators to experience the sport at a national level.
UTAS joins Devils as official higher education partner THE University of Tasmania has been announced as an official higher education partner of the Tasmania Football Club, creating new education and career pathways connected to elite sport. The partnership formalises more than two years of collaboration between the University and the Devils, with a
focus on developing Tasmania’s future workforce and supporting athletes to pursue higher education alongside their sporting careers. It will also create opportunities for students interested in careers beyond the playing field, including business, events, marketing, health and sports performance.
The University has already supported the club’s Blundstone Tasmanian Academy of Leadership and Sport (TALS), which was established in 2025. Earlier this year, the organisations announced an accelerated university pathway allowing TALS students to complete a 2.5-year program and receive 1.5 years of credit
towards a Bachelor of Business. Several students are already enrolled in the pathway, with participation expected to grow. Tasmania Football Club general manager of commercial and partnerships James Creak said the partnership would help create new opportunities for
Tasmanians. “Together, we have an exciting opportunity to connect education and sport, open new pathways for students and athletes, and make a meaningful contribution to communities across our state,” he said. University of Tasmania executive director of global marketing and recruitment Michelle
Weir said the partnership would introduce students to the range of careers available within professional sport. “There is an entire workforce behind an elite sporting organisation, and this partnership gives our students the opportunity to explore those careers and build connections to an industry that is growing
here in Tasmania,” she said. “Whether their future is in business, events, marketing, health, performance or another part of the industry, we want students to see that there are exciting career pathways connected to the game that go well beyond playing it.”