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Electoral Feature
SEPTEMBER 2026
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Congratulations to Century 21 Stellar Group managing director/property agent Alison Rogers on being your favourite Real Estate agent. Alison is a cornerstone of the Century 21 Stellar Group and has spent the last decade shifting the paradigm of property sales from a mere transaction to a deeply human, communitycentric experience. FULL STORY ON PAGE 3
Century 21 Stellar Group managing director/property agent Alison Rogers
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2 Hobart Observer SEPTEMBER 2026
Electoral Feature
Ashdown launches council campaign TIFFANY Ashdown has announced she will stand for Lord Mayor and Councillor at the October 2026 Hobart City Council elections, on a platform of women’s representation, disability rights and climate action. “Hobart deserves a council that genuinely considers women and people living with disability in its decisions, and takes our community’s future seriously in the face of real and growing climate risk,” Ms Ashdown said. Ms Ashdown is
committed to building a collaborative council, having already brought together sitting councillors and candidates from across the political spectrum for a community street cleanup. “There is opportunity everywhere to collaborate if you look for it. “Hobart does not need councillors who agree on everything, it needs councillors who know how to disagree well and still get things done.” Ms Ashdown supports
the Battery Point foreshore walkway and greater sharing of council spaces between community groups, saying public assets should work harder for the people who fund them. She has the endorsement of Legislative Councillor Clare Glade-Wright MLC and Member for Clark Helen Burnet MP. Ms Ashdown is 30 years old, born and raised in Tasmania, a mother and lives with a disability
Tiffany Ashdown (second-left) with (L-R) Clare Glade-Wright MLC, Peter George MP and Helen Burnet MP at her campaign launch.
Community News
Preparing Hobart for a changing climate
THERE is a very strong El Nino building in the eastern Pacific which scientists tell us will significantly affect global weather patterns. Our little island, Lutruwita/Tasmania won’t be immune from its impact and that includes our beautiful city of Hobart. We’re almost certainly in for a very hot summer, with elevated bushfire and wild weather risk statewide. To help us all prepare, Cassy O’Connor MLC and Vica Bayley MP are hosting
the aCLIMATisE forum at City Hall on 30 September. aCLIMATisE is your opportunity to hear from and talk to experts in climate science and emergency planning. Guest speakers and stallholders include Aboriginal Land Council of Tasmania Manager Sarah Wilcox, Professor David Bowman and Professor Gretta Pecl from UTAS, the Australian Red Cross, Tasmania Fire Service, RACT Insurance, Unions Tasmania, Hobart City Mission, the
Tourism Industry Council of Tasmania, and Glenorchy City Council to name a few. Together, as a community, we can foster connection, care and resilience in a changing climate. aCLIMATisE – A Climate Preparedness Forum will be held at Hobart City Hall, 63 Murray St Hobart Wednesday, 30 September. Drop in anytime between 1pm to 6pm. Presentations at 1pm, 3:30pm and 5pm. We would love to see you there.
HOSTED BY
Cassy O’Connor MLC Vica Bayley MP
What does a changing climate mean for Nipaluna / Hobart and you?
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COME ALONG, MEET AND CHAT WITH LOCAL STALLHOLDERS AND COMMUNITY GROUPS Authorised by Cassy O’Connor MLC for the Tasmanian Greens, 180 New Town Rd, New Town TAS 7000
Kunanyi. Photo credit: Rob Blakers
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Community News
Redefining the Hobart real estate experience FROM FRONT PAGE
FOR Alison Rogers, over the past ten years, the landscape of Hobart real estate has been defined not just by properties changing hands, but by the way an agent facilitates those transitions. Alison is a cornerstone of the Century 21 Stellar Group and has spent the last decade shifting the paradigm of property sales from a mere transaction to a deeply human, community-centric experience. In an industry often characterised by pressure and haste, Alison has carved out a reputation as a calm anchor. She is known among locals for the quiet assurance she brings to complex life transitions. When a homeowner’s life situation shifts, whether through growth, necessity, or change, Alison is the one who steps in to say, “I have it handled.”
It is this mantra that defines her practice; her clients know that from the first appraisal to the final key exchange, every detail is meticulously cared for. This commitment to service is not merely professional; it is deeply rooted in a foundational belief in community. Alison’s work in real estate is, by her own admission, an extension of her life in Hobart. She is a familiar face across the region, not just in boardrooms, but in the community spaces that knit our city together. As a founder of the Kingborough Land Users Body Association, she has been a tireless advocate for property owners navigating the complexities of local council matters. Her leadership extends to her role as President of the Rotary Club of Hobart and her dedicated support for grassroots football through
sponsorship of the Southern Football League. Perhaps most tellingly, she can be found volunteering at the Salvation Army’s Hobart citadel, serving Sunday night dinners for our city’s most vulnerable. This community spirit is the backbone of her agency, yet her commitment to her clients goes even further. Recognising that the physical process of moving is often the most stressful aspect of a sale, Alison founded Stellar Property Concierge. This service, which offers end-to-end assistance with organising, decluttering, renovating, styling, and moving logistics, dovetails seamlessly with her sales and rental expertise. It is a comprehensive approach designed to offer clients true peace of mind, ensuring that the home they create is supported through every stage of their journey. When asked what drives this relentless commitment
Electoral Feature
Hobart Mayor and councillor candidate Edwin Johnstone
Local experience at heart of Edwin Johnstone’s Council campaign SMALL business owner and community advocate Edwin Johnstone is standing for Deputy Lord Mayor and Councillor for Hobart, offering experienced, practical and respectful leadership focused on getting the basics right. A sixth-generation Tasmanian, Edwin has lived and worked in Hobart his whole life. For more than 20 years, he has operated a business in Salamanca, giving him a firsthand understanding of the pressures facing residents and businesses. “As a small business owner, I understand how Council decisions affect people daily, from rates, rubbish collection to parking, planning and public safety,” Edwin said. As Chair of Business Greater Hobart, Edwin works with businesses, community
leaders and government to advocate for practical solutions and a stronger local economy. He is involved with the Choir of High Hopes Hobart, Rotary Salamanca, Rostrum and the Safer Hobart Alliance. Edwin has worked in the Tasmanian public sector in communications and information technology and is a University of Tasmania graduate. These roles have given him experience in administration, financial responsibility, advocacy and bringing people with different views together. His five priorities are getting the basics right, supporting local businesses and jobs, improving traffic flow, parking and access, spending ratepayer money responsibly, and creating a safer and more welcoming city. “Hobart should be a
confident, connected and well-run city that supports its people, values businesses and makes the most of its opportunities,” Edwin said. “Council must manage ratepayer money responsibly, deliver reliable services and make timely, practical decisions. I will listen, work constructively with others and judge proposals on their merits.” Edwin says he is ready to contribute from day one and will bring an independent, practical and communityminded approach to the Council table. “I want a Council that respects residents, supports opportunity and plans for Hobart’s future while protecting what makes our city special.”
to property and people, Alison points to a legacy that stretches back over a century. She traces her entrepreneurial spirit to her great-grandmother, a pioneering business owner who held fourteen properties across Hobart in the late 1800s and early 1900s. The stories of her ancestor’s grit and vision inspired Alison to follow in those footsteps, and in turn, she hopes her own path serves as an inspiration to others. In a city that prides itself on community and connection, Alison Rogers is more than an agent; she is a steward of our local story. Whether helping a young family find their first home or guiding a long-term resident through a life-changing move, she continues to prove that in Hobart, home isn’t just a place, it’s how you are looked after while you’re there.
Century 21 Stellar Group managing director/property agent Alison Rogers
4 Hobart Observer SEPTEMBER 2026
Community News
Da Angelo Takes Top Honour at Inaugural Greater Hobart Business Awards
Leader of the opposition Josh Willie with Angelo and Phyllis Fraraccio
DA Angelo Ristorante has been named Business of the Year at the inaugural Greater Hobart Small Business Excellence Awards, earning the event’s highest recognition after 32 years of serving the Hobart community. Leader of the Opposition, the Hon. Josh Willie MP, attended the awards night and congratulated Angelo, Phyllis and all the team at
Da Angelo Ristorante on the achievement. “A Hobart institution,” Mr Willie said. Hosted by Business Greater Hobart, the inaugural awards celebrated the achievements of local small businesses across the region. Da Angelo was selected as the overall winner in recognition of its long-standing contribution to Hobart’s hospitality industry and local economy.
Accepting the award, the Da Angelo team thanked their customers for supporting the restaurant throughout its 32-year journey. The Business of the Year title marks a significant milestone for the Da Angelo family and further strengthens Da Angelo’s reputation as one of Tasmania’s most enduring hospitality success stories.
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The CoastSnap station at Cornelian Bay
Beachgoers help track Hobart’s changing coastline A TRIP to the beach can now help scientists better understand Hobart’s changing coastline, with new CoastSnap stations installed at Cornelian Bay and Nutgrove Beach. The stations allow beachgoers to use their phones to take precisely positioned photographs of the shoreline before uploading them using a QR code or the free CoastSnap app. Each image becomes part of a national coastal monitoring database containing tens of thousands of photographs from beaches around Australia.
Scientists and climate researchers can use the images to track how coastlines change over time in response to factors including rising sea levels, extreme storms, waves and tidal activity. CoastSnap uses a simple phone cradle that ensures every photograph is taken from exactly the same position and captures the same section of shoreline. As more photographs are submitted, they create a time-lapse record showing how individual beaches erode and recover under changing conditions.
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The program began on Sydney’s Northern Beaches and has since expanded internationally, with more than 600 monitoring stations across 35 countries. Hobart’s two stations have been placed at beaches where coastal changes are already of particular interest. Nutgrove Beach was selected because some of Hobart’s most evident coastal changes are already taking place in the area. Cornelian Bay was chosen because it is considered Hobart’s beach most vulnerable to the impacts of sea level rise, waves and tidal
action. Over time, photographs submitted at Cornelian Bay will also help show differences in erosion between the section of beach protected by the stone wall and areas without the same protection. Beachgoers visiting either location are encouraged to place their phone in the CoastSnap station, take a photograph and upload it, turning a simple beach snap into useful information for researchers monitoring Australia’s changing coastlines.
Hobart Observer SEPTEMBER 2026 5
Electoral Feature
Vo t e
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1
City of Hobart Lord Mayor and Councillor candidate Harvey Lennon
It’s time to put the people, the Hobart ratepayers, before politics HOBART needs experienced, credible leadership and a sensible balance. As a former CEO in the commercial and community sectors, I’m ready to lead Council fairly and represent the capital with maturity, credibility and purpose. I don’t want Hobart to miss the huge opportunities in front of us. We need a city that moves, is affordable and is open for business. I’ve got a Ten-Point Plan for A Better Hobart and I’m ready to get to work. My priorities include: • Keeping rates at or below
inflation, every year, for four years and an independent review of what this council spends, published in full. • Local streets and footpaths that work, with safer lighting and improved line markings. • Smarter charging, not fewer car parks. • More homes in our city utilising already built spaces, starting with the empty floors above our own main streets. • A single long-term plan to get Hobart moving, and stick to it, so we stop running the same argument every four years. • And a council that behaves like adults, with
votes on the record, decisions on a timeline and an end to the personal politics. Hobart is one of the world’s most beautiful small capital cities, with enormous opportunities ahead. But too many decisions stall while rates still rise and practical problems remain unresolved. I will lead a council that listens, decides and gets on with the job. A council that rebuilds trusted relationships - and puts people before politics. So vote 1, Harvey Lennon, for Mayor and Councillor, Hobart.
Vote 1 Richard Wilson as Councillor and let’s bring Hobart forward together
Taking Hobart forward IF there’s a lesson to be learned from recent performance, it is we deserve a Hobart City Council that puts its core duties first. We need to re-focus on basic services for our residents and businesses, while minimising rate increases. Recent political in-fighting and scandals need no further commentary. We can move forward with a mature, co-operative Council and a focus on the three Rs – roads, rates and rubbish. However, some recent failings should remind us how the Council can do better. The former Welcome Stranger Hotel on Davey Street is boarded up and covered in graffiti. It’s been that way since the former Council rejected a planning application seven years ago
on the grounds of height and heritage. That would have delivered more than 50 apartments. I am optimistic the property’s owners will propose a new project to be supported by a Council that chooses progress rather than protest. Another reminder is the Macquarie Point Stadium. While I appreciate many do not support the stadium, it is happening and Hobart deserves a Council that accepts reality. The Council has the responsibility to work constructively within its authority to enhance the wider project. Bizarrely, the Council opposed the Stadium, despite compelling findings of an economic analysis that the Council itself commissioned. It found $140 million in economic benefits to
Hobart each year during the construction phase and $178 million per year when operational, with no funding commitment required from Council. That’s not to mention that Tasmania’s long-deserved admission to the AFL is conditional on this project. The Council has responsibilities in local vehicle and pedestrian connections, planning for the new Northern Access Road, managing noise, traffic, lighting and heritage matters. A constructive Council can help to ease concerns some have about the project. Let’s work together to take Hobart forward. Richard Wilson (MA, GAICD) is a long-serving former senior Government adviser and chief-of-staff with professional experience in the marine science and energy sectors.
Harvey
LENNON
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FOR MAYOR, COUNCILLOR, HOBART For experienced, credible leadership and a sensible balance.
0417 582 587
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Authorised by Harvey Lennon, 10 Weld Street, South Hobart
6 Hobart Observer SEPTEMBER 2026
Community News
Gala raises $151,000 for Tassie kids Tasmanian children living with disability or disadvantage. More than 470 guests attended Variety Tasmania’s Variety of Chefs Gala Ball at Wrest Point, with the charity’s biggest fundraising event of the year surpassing its fundraising target. Variety Tasmania CEO Mohammad Aldergham said the result demonstrated the generosity of the Tasmanian community and would provide lifechanging assistance to children and families across the state. “Funds raised through the event will support Variety Tasmania’s grants, programs and experiences, helping children access equipment, services and opportunities
Variety Tasmania’s Variety of Chefs Gala Ball at Wrest Point
Community Events Join us at our Hobart wellness hub for a range of sessions, events and activities. Whether you're looking to get moving, learn something new, or simply connect with others, there’s something here for everyone, member or not.
they may otherwise miss out on,” he said. “The gala result follows another significant year for the organisation, which supported 26,693 Tasmanian children and allocated 124 grants worth more than $556,000 over the past 12 months. “The $151,000 raised at the ball will allow Variety to extend this support to even more families. “The annual Variety of Chefs Gala Ball is the organisation’s major fundraising event, bringing supporters together to raise funds for Tasmanian children while celebrating the impact of Variety’s work across the state.”
More nurses, doctors and midwives, less locums Madeleine Ogilvie, Liberal Member for Clark MORE nurses, midwives and doctors are being recruited to the Tasmanian Health Service, boosting the state’s highly skilled health workforce while reducing costs for agency and locum staff. During the 2025-26 financial year, the number of full-time equivalent nursing and midwifery staff employed across Tasmania increased by 163.52 FTE compared to 2024-25. This increase in nurses and midwives has delivered a more than $36 million reduction on agency staff in 2025-26 compared to
2024-25. The Department of Health saved $17.9 million on medical locums during 2025-26 compared to the previous financial year, while increasing the doctor workforce by 73 full-time equivalent staff. Liberal Member for Clark Madeleine Ogilvie said part of this was $22.4 million less spent on agency nurses in the south. “We have significantly boosted our nursing, midwife and doctor workforce,” she said. “Continuing to recruit and retain valued healthcare staff remains an absolute priority of our 2030 Strong
Plan for Tasmania’s Future. “This increase means that we can spend less on locums and agency nurses, invest back into our health system and give Tasmanians the healthcare they deserve. “It’s more proof we are investing in the services Tasmanians need while finding practical savings.” There are a number of other initiatives underway within the Department of Health to enhance the delivery and efficiency of health services, including the Rostering Improvement Program which aims to reduce the amount of overtime hours among nurses and midwives.
Korongee Dementia Village
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To book a tour or check eligibility, call 6145 6600 or visit www.glenview.org.au GOVERNMENT SUBSIDIES AVAILABLE FOR FULL PENSIONERS
Hobart Observer SEPTEMBER 2026 7
Electoral Feature
VOTE 1 RYAN POSSELT
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FOR LORD MAYOR AND COUNCILLOR
“
Authorised by Councillor Ryan Posselt, 50 Macquarie Street, Hobart
I’m running for Lord Mayor because I believe in a better future for all Hobartians - thriving neighbourhoods, strong communities, and opportunity for everyone - while protecting what makes this city so special.
COMMUNITY
”
I will put people first, support local businesses and volunteers, and focus council resources on the services and facilities that make everyday life better.
TRANSPORT
ABOUT RYAN
I will advocate for better public transport, safer streets, high quality footpaths and practical transport solutions that reduce congestion.
RECREATION
39-year-old Ryan lives in West Hobart, and has served as a paramedic for 15 years, with tertiary qualifications in nursing, paramedicine and research. He is the father of two young boys, and loves getting back to nature or playing piano at home. He has served as a Hobart City Councillor for four years.
ACHIEVEMENTS
I will support investment in our parks, playgrounds, sporting grounds, trails, clubs and community facilities, so that people of all ages and abilities can be active, healthy and connected.
Strengthened transparency & integrity measures at Council by implementing new public registers. Protecting homes from becoming whole-home short-stay accommodation Safer roads through stronger red-light enforcement and upgrades to the Domain & Brooker Highway
HOUSING I will work towards freeing up valuable land for medium-density inner-city housing, shops and services, and support increased regulation of short-stay accommodation to protect residential neighbourhoods - giving every Hobartian a fair chance to have a roof over their head.
More transport choice by making every journey safer and more comfortable Protecting our local post offices from closure Safer streets by fixing faded and unsafe road markings 8 new mountain bike tracks connecting the mountain network
Interested in discussing our future? Get in touch today - 0491 967 336.
8 Hobart Observer SEPTEMBER 2026
Community News
Dangerous items can lead to catastrophic fire Tasmania’s major waste operators have joined forces to warn householders that a single flammable item in the wheelie bin can destroy a truck, shut down a waste facility and put workers’ lives at risk. The Flammable Five campaign, launched recently at the Lutana Resource Recovery Centre, targets the five most dangerous items turning up in household bins - batteries, electronic and rechargeable waste, gas bottles, flares and vapes. Southern Waste Solutions CEO Nick Gifford said the risk of fires at waste facilities and in collection trucks had become a daily concern in Tasmania. “Our crews are pulling flammable items out of household rubbish every day – old phones, power tool batteries, even gas cylinders,” Mr Gifford said. “If an excavator crushes or pierces a battery, it can explode instantly, putting our workers, our equipment and our infrastructure at serious risk.” Every year, an estimated 10,000 to 12,000 batteryrelated fires occur in Australia’s waste and recycling system. The average home contains more than 30
lithium-ion batteries in everything from laptops, garden tools to electric toothbrushes. Veolia Strategic Development Manager Tasmania Martin Robinson said truck fires were a serious and growing source of anxiety for drivers. “When a fire starts in the back of a truck our drivers face an impossible choice ― to put their lives at risk and keep driving until they get to a safe place to unload or immediately dispose of a smouldering load to prevent a dangerous fire from getting out of hand,” Mr Robinson said. Dulverton Waste Management CEO Veronica Schilling said vapes had become one of the fastestgrowing causes of waste fires. “The problem with vapes is they are so small, it is often impossible to detect them until it is too late,” she said. “We’re asking Tasmanians to stop and think before anything goes in the wheelie bin. If it holds a charge, holds gas or holds a spark, it doesn’t belong in the bin. “In the first hour of running our brand-new organics facility we had a
rechargeable battery go through the shredder and catch fire. We were lucky not to see $35 million go up in smoke that day.”
There are a range of resources available to find your nearest collection point for the Flammable Five.
The best sources of information have been collated at www. rethinkwaste.com.au/ flammable-5
The Flammable Five campaign is a joint initiative of Dulverton Waste Management, Southern Waste Solutions, Veolia,
Cleanaway and the City of Hobart, supported by funding from the Waste and Resource Recovery Board.
(From left), Southern Waste Solutions CEO Nick Gifford, Environment Minister Guy Barnett, Fiona McAlpine, of the City of Hobart, Dulverton CEO Veronica Schilling, CEO Waste & Resource Recovery Board Holly Mackey, Fiona Harding, of Rethink Waste, and Veolia’s Martin Robinson.
IT ONLY TAKES ONE
BATTERY.
Don’t bin the Flammable Five. Flammable 5 is supported by the Tasmanian Waste and Resource Recovery Board, which is funded by the Tasmanian Government
SCAN TO FIND YOUR NEAREST DISPOSAL POINT rethinkwaste.com.au/Flammable-5
Hobart Observer SEPTEMBER 2026 9
Community News
Young readers learn vital road safety lessons YOUNG Tasmanians learned important road safety messages through the power of stories during Book Week, with RACT staff visiting schools and early learning centres across the state to help children stay safe as pedestrians and passengers. RACT community coordinator Hayley Brown said helping children develop positive road safety habits from an early age was an important part of creating safer roads for everyone. “Children are constantly learning how to navigate the world around them and roads are a big part of that,” she said. “Book Week gives us a great opportunity to make road safety fun and engaging, while helping children understand simple behaviours that can help keep them safe.” The visits featured
Local students learning about road safety during Book Week
Yippee, a children’s book forming part of RACT’s broader community education program, which supports road safety education across Tasmania through engagement with early learning centres, schools and the wider community. Created in collaboration with South Australian sister club RAA, the book uses colourful illustrations and simple rhymes to introduce children aged up to six to positive road safety behaviours. Ms Brown said parents, carers and educators also had an important role to play in helping children develop safe habits around roads. “Yippee is designed for younger children, but it’s also a great tool for parents, carers and educators to use to start conversations about road safety,” she said. “Children learn so much by watching the
adults around them, so one of the best things we can do is model safe behaviours every day. “We encourage parents and carers to take every opportunity to talk to children about road safety, whether you’re walking to school, crossing the road or getting in the car.” RACT encouraged parents and carers to regularly talk about road safety with children, hold hands with young children when crossing roads and ensure children were correctly restrained whenever travelling in a car. Adults were also encouraged to model safe road behaviours themselves, helping children learn through the actions of those around them. Schools and early learning centres interested in RACT’s community road safety education programs can register through the RACT website.
Vinnies launches first-ever Vans Appeal across Tasmania THE St Vincent de Paul Society Tasmania is launching its first-ever Vans Appeal, calling on Tasmanians to help keep its vital Vinnies and Loui’s Van services on the road and supporting people experiencing hardship across the state. Running from 1 September to 31 October, the appeal aims to raise $80,000 to support the ongoing operation of Vinnies Vans in Northern and NorthWest Tasmania and Loui’s Van in the South. Together, the services assist more than 30,000 people each year, providing meals and refreshments alongside practical assistance, conversation, connection and referrals to further support. Loui’s Van volunteer Christine Lane said the vans had become a trusted and familiar presence in communities across Tasmania. “For someone experiencing homelessness, financial hardship, loneliness or social isolation, a visit to one of our vans can mean much more than receiving a warm meal or a hot drink,” she said. “We take the time to listen, have a conversation and provide a safe and welcoming place where people know they will be treated with dignity and respect. “For some people, that regular connection can also be the first step towards feeling comfortable enough to ask for further assistance and access the support they need.” During the past financial
year, Vinnies Van services in Burnie and Wynyard assisted 9,299 people, while the Launceston service assisted 6,400. In Southern Tasmania, Loui’s Van operates two vehicles across Hobart and surrounding suburbs, making 10 stops four nights each week and assisting 14,433 people during the past financial year. Loui’s Van volunteer Jenny McQuilkin said increasing cost-of-living pressures meant the services were becoming even more important for Tasmanians struggling to afford everyday essentials. “We continue to see people facing incredibly difficult choices between food, housing and other basic necessities, including people who may never have needed to ask for assistance before,” she said. “Every stop is an opportunity to provide practical assistance, but importantly, it is also an opportunity to make someone feel seen, supported and less alone.” While generous food and in-kind donations help stock the vans, significant ongoing costs are involved in keeping the services operating including fuel, vehicle maintenance, equipment and essential supplies. A donation of around $80 can help provide approximately 20 warm meals and drinks, while $150 can help stock a van with essential food, drinks and supplies. Around $200 can help cover fuel costs for approximately three weeks, while $750
can contribute towards a mechanical service. St Vincent de Paul Society CEO Connie Digolis said community support would be crucial to reaching the inaugural appeal’s $80,000 target and ensuring the vans remained a consistent presence in communities across Tasmania. “These services rely heavily on the generosity of the community alongside government support, and every contribution helps our Members and volunteers continue to be there for people when they
need it most,” she said. “Whether it helps provide food, put fuel in a van or keep a vehicle safely on the road, every donation contributes to something much bigger by providing hope, dignity and meaningful human connection to Tasmanians doing it tough.” The Vinnies and Loui’s Vans Appeal runs from 1 September to 31 October 2026. To donate, visit the Vinnies Tasmania website: www.vinnies.org.au/tas L-R Volunteer Michael Hunt, CEO Connie Digolis, Volunteers Jenny McQuilkin and Christine Lane
ANDREW WILKIE ADVERTISEMENT
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Drop into the office at 188 Collins Street Hobart Phone 6234 5255 or 6234 5861 Email andrew.wilkie.mp@aph.gov.au Write to me at GPO Box 32 Hobart 7001 I regularly hold mobile offices. Please check my website and social media for details.
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10 Hobart Observer SEPTEMBER 2026
Community News
Young performers rehearse for DRILL Performance Company’s upcoming contemporary dance production Deep Dark Tales
Young performers step into the shadows A GROUP of young Tasmanian performers will explore fear, division and hope when DRILL Performance Company brings its latest contemporary dance work, Deep Dark Tales, to Hobart’s Theatre Royal. The youth-led production draws on folklore, cautionary tales and mythical creatures to create a world of monsters that reflect
some of the challenges facing young people today. Through a series of theatrical vignettes, the performers explore themes including climate grief, isolation, division, social cohesion and hope, using allegory and symbolism to encourage audiences to consider the world around them. Eleven young performers have been
developing Deep Dark Tales collaboratively since April alongside DRILL Artistic Director Tara Robertson and choreographers Tyrel Dulvarie and Gabriel Comerford. Robertson brings extensive experience including eight years with Bangarra Dance Theatre, while Dulvarie has performed nationally and internationally with
Bangarra and received an Australian Dance Award for Outstanding Performance by a Male Dancer. Comerford has more than 15 years of professional experience and regularly collaborates with companies including Tasdance, Stompin’, DRILL and GUTS Dance. At the heart of the work is a question about
where hope can be found when the outside world feels as though it is fading to black. One of the young performers explores that idea through an original poem featured in the production. “Yet within this solitude I also find a seed of hope, growing in my palm,” the performer said. “It cuts through the silence and all the
sadness. It adds a little bit of light.” Moving from darkness towards possibility, the production provides a creative space for young people to reflect on the world they are inheriting and imagine how it could be different. By placing young voices at the centre of the creative process, DRILL aims to encourage artistic expression, critical
thinking and resilience while inviting audiences to consider what it might take to overcome the “monsters” created by society. Deep Dark Tales will be performed at the Theatre Royal in Hobart at 7pm from September 24 to 26. Tickets are available through the Theatre Royal box office.
Bird of the Month: Yellow-throated honeyeater
The Yellow Throated Honeyeater. Photo credit: David Southall
WITH its unmistakable splash of bright yellow, the yellowthroated honeyeater is a colourful character found nowhere else in the world but Tasmania and some of its surrounding islands. A medium-sized honeyeater growing to around 18–23 centimetres, it can be recognised by its vivid yellow throat, olive-green back and wings, grey head and
underparts and small yellow patch around the ear. Yellow-throated honeyeaters are widespread across Tasmania and can be found in habitats ranging from wet and dry forests and woodlands to coastal heath, parks, reserves and suburban gardens. Despite the name, nectar is only part of the menu. The birds feed
mainly on insects, often searching along tree trunks, bark and foliage, while also eating nectar and occasionally fruit and seeds. They might look charming, but yellowthroated honeyeaters are not afraid to stand their ground. Males defend territories throughout the year and the species is known to aggressively chase away
other birds, including other honeyeaters, pardalotes, Golden Whistlers and Grey Shrike-thrushes. Spring is an especially good time to keep an eye out, with the breeding season running from August to December. Females build a cupshaped nest, generally low to the ground, where two to three spotted pinkish eggs are laid.
As one of just 12 bird species endemic to Tasmania, the yellowthroated honeyeater is another reminder of how distinctive the island’s birdlife is. So next time you’re walking through the bush or even spending time in a local park or garden, listen for a loud call and look for that brilliant flash of yellow among the trees.
Hobart Observer SEPTEMBER 2026 11
Community News
Exit Left costume designer Suzen Parnell
Bringing Agatha Christie to life: Suzen Parnell’s costume design for And Then There Were None
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essential measurements on-site. With the production opening on 25 September, Ms Parnell is currently finalizing the intricate pieces that will transport audiences back in time. From the first sketch to the final stitch, her work is a crucial part of the visual storytelling that will define this highly anticipated season at Australia’s oldest working theatre. “We are thrilled to have Suzen’s expertise for this production,” producer John X said. “Her ability to marry historical accuracy with
theatrical flair and an exacting attention to detail is exactly what brings a show like this to life for the audience.” Audiences can expect a high level of craftsmanship that maintains the integrity of the 1930, transporting us all into the world of Soldier Island and ‘Agatha Christie’ Keep an eye out for more updates as the team moves towards the opening night at the Theatre Royal on 25 September, ahead of a season that concludes on 10 October.
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been working closely with the production team, is responsible for creating the complete collection of costumes for the cast. The project, commissioned by John X Presents, involves extensive design and construction work to ensure each character’s look reflects the tension and period detail essential to Christie’s masterpiece. Design work for the collection commenced earlier this year, with Ms Parnell recently visiting the Theatre Royal Hobart in late July to conduct
AFLW Cup tour
TasWaste South is supported by the Tasmanian Waste and Resource Recovery Board, which is funded by the Tasmanian Government.
taswastesouth.tas.gov.au/hhw
THE Theatre Royal stage is set to be transformed as preparations ramp up for the upcoming production of Agatha Christie’s classic thriller, And Then There Were None. Bringing the 1930s-era atmosphere to life is renowned Exit Left costume designer Suzen Parnell. Ms Parnell, who has
12 Hobart Observer SEPTEMBER 2026
Electoral Feature
HOBART
How to vote in local government elections
The sealed declaration envelope then goes inside the reply paid envelope, which can be returned by post without a stamp or placed in the ballot box at your local council.
TASMANIANS will soon have the opportunity to decide who represents their local communities, with council elections being held across all 29 local government areas in 2026. Unlike state and federal elections, Tasmania’s local government elections are conducted entirely by postal ballot, meaning there is no traditional election day where voters head to a polling booth. Voting is compulsory for everyone enrolled on the state electoral roll, with voters electing councillors,
a mayor and deputy mayor to serve four-year terms. Ballot packs will begin arriving in letterboxes from Monday 5 October and will contain ballot papers, a booklet with candidate statements and voting instructions, a declaration envelope and a reply paid envelope. Once you have decided how you want to vote, mark your preferences on the ballot papers according to the instructions provided. Place the completed ballot papers inside the declaration envelope and
seal it, then make sure you sign the declaration envelope in the box next to your name. The sealed declaration envelope then goes inside the reply paid envelope, which can be returned by post without a stamp or placed in the ballot box at your local council. The Tasmanian Electoral Commission recommends returning your vote early to allow enough time for postal delivery. Voting closes at 2pm on Tuesday 27 October and ballot papers must be
received by that time to be included in the count. Counting will begin the following morning. Anyone who has recently moved should also make sure their enrolment details are up to date, with the electoral roll closing at 6pm on Thursday 10 September. People who own or occupy land within a council area but are not
otherwise enrolled there may also be eligible to vote, as can nominated representatives of corporate bodies that own or occupy land. These electors need to apply through the relevant council. The postal voting system is designed to keep each person’s vote private. While the signed
declaration is used to confirm an elector has voted, identifying information is separated from the sealed ballot before votes are opened and counted. For more information about enrolling, voting and the 2026 local government elections visit the Tasmanian Electoral Commission website.
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How your council works LOCAL councils make decisions and provide services that have a direct impact on everyday life from local roads and parks to rubbish collection, planning and community facilities. Tasmania’s councils are made up of two distinct parts, the elected council and the council administration. The elected council consists of the mayor and councillors chosen by the community. Together, they set the council’s direction, establish policies, approve budgets and make decisions on behalf of their municipality. Individual councillors
cannot make council decisions on their own, decisions are made collectively through council meetings, debate and voting. The mayor chairs council meetings and acts as the council’s official spokesperson while the deputy mayor performs the mayor’s responsibilities when required. Council administration is led by a general manager with staff responsible for implementing council decisions, managing day-today operations and delivering local services. Councils have responsibilities across
areas including roads and infrastructure, parks and public spaces, planning, waste services, dog control and food safety. Residents can also participate in local government beyond elections by attending council meetings, taking part in community consultation and making submissions or petitions. Local government elections give Tasmanians the opportunity to choose the people who will represent their community and help shape its future.
Authorised by Sam Campbell, 85 Pedder St, New Town 7008
Hobart Observer SEPTEMBER 2026 13
Electoral Feature
Sustainability is core business
By Bill Harvey What does sustainability look like on Hobart’s streets today? Long before the UN Brundtland Commission famously defined it as meeting present needs without compromising the future, the concept was simple: ensuring our community thrives without exhausting the place we call home. Environmental sustainability has underpinned my thinking and teaching since the 90s, but putting it into practice isn’t easy when our broader systems aren’t built for it. We waste far too much of everything. Resources that should stay in rotation are routinely sent to landfill or vented into the atmosphere. Plastic pollution is ubiquitous, with micro- and nanoplastics now permeating our environment—and our bodies. Locally, our soils face depletion and our oceans warming are acidifying, compounding the pressures on our natural environment. Much of the response to date has relied on asking individuals to do better—to recycle more, avoid single-use items, and shop differently. Yet, excessive packaging and systemic waste streams continue to grow. Rather than relying solely on individual
goodwill, we need to foster circular economy partnerships with local businesses while actively advocating for stronger producer responsibility at the state and federal levels. Responding to these challenges often lands on Local Government. There is a clear expectation for councils to act, but because local government manages waste without controlling the upstream flow, our role cannot stop at managing landfill reduction and recovery programs. A strong local council must maximize action at home while aggressively advocating upward for systemic reform at the state and national level. We can—and do—drive real progress through local policy. Hobart’s 40% tree canopy target requires both active planting and firm protection of existing trees, providing essential shade and cooling across our suburbs. Council now encourages residents to garden their nature strips with native plants to build insect habitats and improve water infiltration for drought resilience. We have also replaced restrictive regulations with a clear code of practice, making it far easier for locals to keep bees. Our local reserves thrive because of this community-led
approach. Hobart’s 16 Bushcare groups represent our largest volunteer sector, with around 500 people actively restoring wildlife habitats. When asked why they participate, volunteers consistently point to the social, physical, and mental health benefits of working alongside neighbors for a common purpose. Managing traffic and mobility is another vital function of local government. While many residents rely on their cars, effective transport planning requires viable alternatives for everyone. Reliable public transport, safe bike lanes, and walkable streets must be integrated into a cohesive mobility plan that keeps our city connected and accessible. Looking ahead, sustainability must sit at the core of every decision we make. Building climate resilience—preparing our city and suburbs for fire, flood, and drought—is an ongoing priority. The foundation of that resilience lies in community strength: working together, setting differences aside, and focusing on practical outcomes. Together, we can build a city that is resilient, connected, and sustainable for generations to come.
VOTE 1
Bill Harvey demonstrating how to turn garden waste from fire hazards to biochar, a form of carbon that improves soil structure, water retention and habitat for microbes
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A B O H F O R O Y A FOR LORD M
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Hobart City Council: Support businesses and communities to reuse, produce and market local food and materials. Climate-Ready Neighbourhoods: Prepare communities for climate impacts. Connect neighbourhoods. Affordable Housing: Safeguard local character Enable community-led planning. Free, Safe Travel: Safer walking and cycling paths to cut your daily travel costs. Protect Renters: Limit converting whole homes to short-stay accommodation.
Authorised by G. Kitsos, Tasmanian Greens, 298 Argyle St, North Hobart 7000.
14 Hobart Observer SEPTEMBER 2026
Electoral Feature
Hobart City Council candidates focus on housing, city vibrancy ahead of election RESIDENTS preparing to vote in this year’s Hobart City Council election are hearing a familiar mix of concerns from the field of candidates, with housing affordability and homelessness emerging as recurring themes. Several candidates have pointed to the cost of renting or buying in the municipality, along with the visibility of rough sleeping in the CBD, as issues residents raise most often at the doorstep. The future of the city centre is also shaping as a talking point, with candidates offering differing views on how to balance foreshore and waterfront development with heritage protection and existing character. Rates and the general cost of council services remain a steady
concern, as does traffic congestion and the availability of parking in and around the CBD. Climate and environmental initiatives, including tree canopy targets and waste management, continue to feature in candidate platforms, alongside calls for greater support for local businesses recovering from cost-of-living pressures. While approaches differ, most candidates agree the council faces a period of significant decision-making on growth, infrastructure and services. Voters are encouraged to research candidates ahead of the election and engage directly with those standing to represent their communities. The City of Hobart
Community News
Tasmanian artist wins People’s Choice Award for second consecutive year A STUNNING sunlit portrait of one of Tasmania’s remote landscapes has captured the public’s imagination, with Tasmanian artist Harrison Bowe taking out the Mercury People’s Choice Award for the second year running. The $2,500 prize for the People’s Choice Award is presented by the Mercury newspaper. The winning work, A Humbling Insignificance, depicts rocks in a remote part of Tasmania bathed in warm, golden light. The painting has proved a standout with exhibition visitors, who have responded to the way its radiant light seems to fill the room. An avid bushwalker, Bowe draws directly on his experiences exploring some of Tasmania’s most rugged and remote landscapes. His paintings translate those encounters into richly textured works, with thickly applied paint conjuring rocks and grasses. The winning artwork is the sister piece to another painting by Bowe that took out another art prize, The
Tattersall’s Landscape Art Prize, earlier this year, continuing a remarkable run of recognition for the artist’s distinctive approach to the Tasmanian landscape. Curator Dr Amy Jackett said the strength of the public response to the work had been clear throughout the exhibition. “Many people spoke about how much they enjoyed seeing this painting. Visitors were drawn to that beautiful golden light and the feeling it creates,” she said. The Mercury People’s Choice Award reflects the enthusiasm of exhibition visitors and celebrates the powerful connection between artists, landscape and the wider public. The exhibition continues this weekend, giving visitors the opportunity to experience a remarkable range of landscape artwork from across the country, including Bowe’s awardwinning work. Artworks are for sale and entry to the exhibition is free open 10am to 4pm daily. For more information visit hadleysartprize.com. au 2026 Hadley’s Art Prize People’s Choice Award Winner Harrison Bowe with his work, A Humbling Insignificance
Hobart Observer SEPTEMBER 2026 15
Community News
St Vincent de Paul Society CEO Connie Digolis, Tasmanian Minister for Housing and Planning Kerry Vincent and Federal Member for Franklin Julie Collins
Women at risk of homelessness in Hobart supported by delivery of new homes CONSTRUCTION of a five-storey development in North Hobart is well underway, delivering 38 apartments for women at risk of homelessness aged 55 and over. The project is among 128 new social homes to be built across Tasmania by 2028 through the Australian Government’s $2 billion Social Housing Accelerator Payment (SHAP). Pouring of the podium slab is set to finish in September, marking the first major milestone for the development.
The Argyle Street project is supported by a combined $13.36 million from SHAP, $2.65 million from Housing Australia, and a further $700,000 from the St Vincent de Paul Society. Completion is scheduled for late 2027. Each studio apartment will include its own kitchen, bathroom and private balcony, with the development also featuring communal spaces, a vertical garden and on-site parking. The development is being delivered by the St
Vincent de Paul Society, Housing Australia, with oversight from Homes Tasmania, and built by Vos Construction. St Vincent de Paul Society chief executive officer Connie Digolis said women over 55 were increasingly vulnerable to housing insecurity. “For many women, a lifetime spent raising families, earning lower wages and having fewer opportunities to build savings and superannuation can leave them particularly exposed when
circumstances change later in life. “Relationship breakdown, the death of a partner, rising living costs or an unexpected financial setback can quickly place someone who has spent their whole life managing independently in a very vulnerable position. 212 Argyle Street is our practical response to that. “We want these women to have more than a roof over their heads, we want them to have a home where they
feel safe, connected and secure, and where they can live with the dignity they deserve.” Federal Member for Franklin Julie Collins said the project reflected the Government’s commitment to tackling housing pressure. “The crane in the sky over this important new project sends a strong signal to every Tasmanian that our government is serious about tackling our state’s housing challenges,” she said. “This project is all
about giving older Tasmanian women at risk of homelessness the safety, dignity and sense of community they deserve. “I have fought hard for this project because I know it will make a difference, and I am so proud to see it approaching its first major construction milestone.” Tasmanian Minister for Housing and Planning Kerry Vincent said the development would give women the security they needed.
“Every Tasmanian deserves a safe and secure place to call home, and this development, delivered by Vos Construction, will provide 38 new homes for women who need that security,” he said. “Delivering housing on a constrained innercity site requires careful staging, site preparation and coordination to ensure the project is set up for successful delivery, and I’m glad to see those works underway.”
Southern councils battle it out in BioBlitz SOUTHERN Tasmanians are being encouraged to explore their backyards, parks and reserves as councils go headto-head to record the region’s plant, animal and fungi species. The Southern Tassie BioBlitz Showdown will challenge residents
across participating council areas to record as many species as possible using the free iNaturalist citizen science platform. Running from September 15 to 30, the BioBlitz encourages people to photograph and log everything
from birds and insects to orchids, grasses, mammals, reptiles, fungi and even weeds. Residents can take part close to home or explore their favourite bushland, coastal reserve, rivulet, river or other natural area. The initiative aims
to encourage people from all walks of life to spend time outdoors while learning more about the biodiversity found across southern Tasmania. Organisers are particularly interested in discovering what lives in people’s gardens,
over their fences and throughout the parks, bushland reserves and coastal areas that make the region such a diverse place to live. Participating councils include Brighton, Clarence, Derwent Valley, Glamorgan Spring Bay, Glenorchy,
Hobart, Huon Valley and Sorell. Observations recorded through iNaturalist will contribute to the BioBlitz results, allowing participants to see what has been discovered across each council area and how their local area compares with its
southern neighbours. More information about the BioBlitz and participating councils is available through the Biodiversity Month 2026 Southern Tassie Showdown on iNaturalist.
16 Hobart Observer SEPTEMBER 2026
Community News
A different way to say goodbye
Alluvium Water Cremations founders Luke Cripps and Brendan Cooper
Dignity. Sustainability. Transparency. www.alluviumwatercremations.com.au alluvium@watercremations.com.au 03 6169 9333 Mornington, Tasmania
100% Tasmanian family owned and operated > Tasmania’s only direct water cremation service > All inclusive pricing - no hidden costs > Environmentally friendly - 90% less energy than flame cremation > 100% guarantee of receiving only your loved one’s ashes back > Friendly and compassionate service
...death doesn’t have to cost the earth! If you'd like to arrange a water cremation for yourself in advance, please complete our pre-need form by scanning the QR code, or visiting our website. Planning ahead is a meaningful gift to those you love.
For more information and pricing please visit our website.
LUKE Cripps and Brendan Cooper are the founders of Alluvium Water Cremations, Tasmania’s first dedicated water cremation service. They met through their kids, who went to the same school, and the friendship led to a business partnership that grew from campfire conversations about doing something more sustainable for Tasmanian families. Luke had long been curious about water cremation from his years in the funeral industry but wasn’t sure people would be ready to embrace it yet. Brendan went away and did the research, and that was enough to convince them both. Getting there was another matter. After initially confirming they could proceed to set up the facility, begin construction, and apply for the relevant licenses it became apparent
some months later that Tasmania’s legislation hadn’t quite caught up with the idea. So, they went and got the law changed. The process itself is simple once you understand it. A body is placed in a stainless-steel chamber with water and alkali salt, calmly heated for around ten hours, until only the bones remain. No flame, no fossil fuels, a fraction of the energy and emissions of traditional cremation. But the environmental case, while real, isn’t the whole story. There’s a gentleness to it, too; something families always mention when describing what they love most about this offering. The process often yields around 20 to 30 per cent more ash than flame cremation, since less is lost along the way, which matters to families who want more to share, whether that’s spreading ashes in more than one
place or sending some to relatives overseas. What families keep telling Luke and Brendan is that the process feels respectful, dignified, and they never feel like they, or their loved one, is ever just another number. Ashes, when ready, are hand-delivered back to those who love them. Families are often surprised to hear from them months, and even years later. They’re able to be reached any hour of the day or night. Of course, these things aren’t required. It’s just how they’ve chosen to do it. Alluvium is based in Southern Tasmania and available across the state, twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week. It’s 100 per cent Tasmanian owned and operated, built by two locals who wanted a better option for the place, and the people, they care about most.
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Hobart Observer SEPTEMBER 2026 17
MONEY TALK
Boarders and lodgers Hank Jongen General Manager Services Australia Hello everyone. Have you ever thought about taking in a boarder or lodger to help with household costs? With the cost of living still front of mind for many people, renting out a spare room can seem like a practical way to bring in extra money. It can also offer company, make better use of your home and help someone find a place to stay. But if you get a Centrelink payment, it’s important to understand how board and lodging may affect your income and assets assessments. A boarder or lodger usually pays you to live in your home. They may have their own room, but they often share spaces like the kitchen, bathroom or living areas. This is different from renting out
a separate, self-contained unit to a tenant as that unit may become an assessable asset. With a boarder or lodger, it depends on how the person uses your home and whether any part of the home is set aside only for them. There are three main things we look at when we assess board and lodging. First, we consider whether the accommodation is part of your principal home. If you own your home and the boarder or lodger shares your home with you, your home will usually remain exempt as your principal home. However, if part of your home is used only by the boarder or lodger, we may need to look more closely at that arrangement. Second, we consider whether the person is a near relative. We don’t
assess board or lodging income if the person is a near relative like a parent, child or sibling. This means the rules can be different if you are helping out a family member compared with taking in someone who is not closely related to you. Third, we look at what services you provide. This matters because the more you provide, the more it costs you. You might provide accommodation only, accommodation with breakfast, or accommodation with all meals. You may also have extra costs such as electricity, water, cleaning and general household wear and tear. We only assess part of the money you receive as income because some of it covers your costs. If you provide accommodation only, we treat 70 per cent of the money as
income. If you provide accommodation and breakfast, we assess 50 per cent. If you provide accommodation and all meals, we assess 20 per cent. If you have a mortgage on your home or you pay rent, we may also reduce the amount we assess by taking mortgage interest or rent into account. If your actual costs are higher and your profit is lower, you can give us evidence so we can reduce the assessable income. Taking in a boarder or lodger can be a useful option, but it’s worth checking the rules before you decide. Call us on 132 300 to speak to our Financial Information Service. Say the words ‘Financial Information Service’ when asked why you’re calling.
Tuesday
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.
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
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 Ray Kemp. 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 Hobart Observer SEPTEMBER 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?
Former Ten Lives resident Rose
Room for Rose to bloom A TABBY cat with beautiful green eyes sits snugly on a couch in her family’s lounge room. Known to her hoomins as Rose, she is warm, comfortable and loved. This cat is in her furever home. But before she found her forever family, Rose spent more than two months in the care of Ten Lives. Rose arrived at the Cat Centre in May 2026. We knew very little about her past, but it soon became clear that being around other cats was stressful for her. Even the sight or smell of another cat nearby could make it difficult for Rose to settle. That also made it hard for us to get to know the cat behind all that uncertainty. There were little glimpses. Rose was shy but
affectionate, often choosing to stay tucked safely inside her bed, but willing to venture out for a gentle pat. We knew there was more to Rose. She just needed the right environment to show us. That’s where foster care can make such a difference. For some cats and kittens, foster care provides room to grow, recover or simply spend some time away from the busy shelter environment. For Rose, it meant finding somewhere quiet where she could be the only animal and settle in at her own pace. There was one catch. Rose needed a foster home without other cats, dogs or children. Fortunately, one of our fabulous foster carers had the purrfect home and
welcomed her in. Away from the sights, sounds and smells of other cats, Rose began to relax. And before long, a very different side of her started to emerge. Who knew this quiet little cat absolutely lived for belly rubs? Rose became an affectionate companion who loved being near her foster carer, whether following them around the house or curling up nearby while they relaxed. She also revealed a cheeky, curious side. An open cupboard was apparently an invitation to investigate and her foster carer quickly learned to check inside before closing the door. Rose spent 57 days in foster care, thriving in the calm of a home where she
could be the only animal. Most importantly, that time gave us the chance to understand what Rose needed to be happy and what kind of home would suit her best. When she was ready for adoption, Rose moved to our Rosny Park Op Shop where she could once again have a cat-free space to herself. She didn’t have to wait long. After just two days, Rose caught the eye of the person who would become her family. Two days later, she was adopted. Today, Rose is exactly where she needs to be: settled into her furever home, loved by her family and enjoying life as the only cat. Rose’s story also shows why we need foster carers
with all kinds of homes, experience and capabilities. Sometimes the foster home we need isn’t one already filled with pets. It might be a quiet, petfree household that can give a cat like Rose the space they need to settle and show us who they really are. We’re also looking for foster carers who have the space and ability to care for cats with ringworm or cat flu, as well as experienced carers who can provide the specialised care needed by neonatal kittens. Every foster home offers something different, and sometimes that difference is exactly what a cat or kitten needs. Learn more about becoming a Ten Lives foster carer and sign up at tenlives. com.au/foste
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!
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 SEPTEMBER 2026 19
Community News
The art of care Benjamin Jardine, CEO, The District Nurses Tasmania
A LONGER life is a gift. It means more years to contribute, connect, learn, laugh and share in the lives of the people we love. “Live your life while you have it. Life is a splendid gift. There is nothing small in it.” — attributed to Florence Nightingale Ageing is a natural part of that longer life. It is not something to fear or apologise for, and needing support along the way should not feel confronting. The right help can sustain independence, confidence and the freedom to keep doing what matters. Over the past year, however, significant
aged care reform has required many older Tasmanians and their families to navigate unfamiliar programs, language and funding arrangements. The introduction of Support at Home in November 2025 was one of the biggest changes to in-home aged care in decades, replacing the former Home Care Packages and Short-Term Restorative Care programs. The Commonwealth Home Support Program, or CHSP, remained in place. Its role is vital: providing modest, early-stage support before small challenges become barriers to living well. The Federal Government has now confirmed that CHSP will continue until 30 June 2029. For the more than 830,000 Australians who rely on it, that brings
welcome certainty. The extension also protects continuity, choice and the relationships people have built with the services and workers they know. People receiving CHSP can continue with familiar supports rather than facing an imminent move into a different program. That matters because ageing is personal. There is no single pathway to ageing well. Support should respond to each person’s goals and circumstances, building on their strengths rather than taking over. It should protect what matters to them and help ensure a longer life remains rich with joy and meaning. CHSP can assist with cleaning, meals, transport, social connection, home maintenance and personal care.
These supports are practical, but their value extends far beyond the task itself. They can help someone conserve energy, stay active, maintain relationships and participate in community life. In that sense, they are services that preserve joy. At its best, early support is quiet but powerful. It preserves capability and confidence, helping people remain the authors of their own lives for as long as possible. Support at Home offers a broader model for people with more complex needs, with funding and contributions varying according to the services a person receives. Clinical services such as nursing are fully funded under Support at Home, and from 1 October
personal care services will also be fully funded for eligible participants with available funding. Contributions remain higher for everyday living services such as domestic assistance and gardening. The right arrangement will depend on your circumstances, the services you value and your financial situation. What matters is having the information and confidence to choose well. That is where clear, trusted advice becomes so important. At The District Nurses, we know that aged care terminology, funding and changing government programs can feel overwhelming. Our role is to sit alongside people, explain the options
in plain language and help them choose support that adds to their lives—without diminishing their independence, identity or sense of possibility. CHSP and Support at Home are different programs, but they share an important purpose: helping older Australians stay healthy, independent and connected to the people, places and communities that give life meaning. For 130 years, that has also been at the heart of what we do at The District Nurses. The programs, funding models and terminology have changed enormously since our first district nurse began visiting Tasmanians in their homes in 1896. What has not changed is the value of the right support, offered at the right
time, to help people keep doing what matters to them. If you receive CHSP services and are unsure what the extension means for you, speak with your provider before making any decisions. Understanding your options can bring confidence—not simply about care, but about how you want to live in the years ahead. Ageing should never be reduced to a list of needs. It is the unfolding of a longer life, rich with experience, relationships, contribution and possibility. CHSP has a vital role in helping ensure those extra years are lived with independence, meaning and joy. Because caring for others isn’t just what we do, it is who we are.
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20 Hobart Observer SEPTEMBER 2026
Community News
Tasmanians rally behind Daffodil Day
Cancer Council Tasmania volunteers preparing flowers for Daffodil Day fundraising stalls
TASMANIANS came together to support people impacted by cancer as Daffodil Day marked its 40th year nationally. Cancer Council Tasmania aimed to raise $250,000 through this year’s campaign, helping fund cancer research and support services for Tasmanians affected by the disease.
Across the state, 4,865 bunches of fresh daffodils were made available at 51 stalls, alongside a range of Daffodil Day merchandise. Cancer Council Tasmania Community Fundraising Manager Zoe Vandervelde said the familiar yellow flowers provided people with a simple way to show their support.
“Everyone knows when they see daffodils over the next couple of days across Tasmania that they can buy them and know that they’re supporting Cancer Council and a cancer-free future,” Ms Vandervelde said. For Hobart mother Barbie O’Breza, Daffodil Day held a particularly special meaning. Her son Ollie was
diagnosed with a rare and aggressive high-grade glioma at just 12 years old and fought the brain tumour for two years before passing away at 14. Ms O’Breza remembers Ollie as a kind-hearted boy who loved gaming and was always keen to get his hands on Cancer Council merchandise. “He didn’t ever want anybody else to go
through what he was going through, especially a child,” Ms O’Breza said. “If he was here, he would do it himself, so I have to do it for him and for others, ’cause there’s lots of people that cancer touches every day.” Ms O’Breza said her family knew firsthand the importance of support for families affected by cancer.
“While we don’t have a future with our Ollie, we have so many wonderful memories that we wouldn’t have without the support of Cancer Council Tasmania and cancer research,” she said. Cancer Council Tasmania CEO Alison Lai said Daffodil Day was about much more than fundraising.
“No family should have to face cancer alone,” she said. “Daffodil Day gives our community an opportunity to come together, remember loved ones, support people currently facing cancer and help fund the services and research that make a real difference.”
Terrapin to bring Christmas magic to Hobart ACCLAIMED Tasmanian puppetry company Terrapin will help bring this year’s Myer City of Hobart Christmas Pageant to life after being named lead artist for the popular event. The 44th annual pageant will take over the Hobart CBD on Saturday 21 November, marking the start of the festive season and attracting an expected crowd of more than 30,000 people. Terrapin will work alongside the City of Hobart and participating community groups through creative workshops, helping them develop colourful and imaginative floats for the parade. The company is also creating a brand-new puppet especially for this year’s pageant. For more than 40 years Terrapin has entertained
audiences through contemporary puppetry, giant roving puppets, interactive installations and innovative theatre works presented across Tasmania, Australia and internationally. Hobart Mayor Anna Reynolds said Terrapin would bring something special to one of the city’s most enduring events. “The Myer City of Hobart Christmas Pageant is one of our city’s most loved and enduring events, bringing together tens of thousands of people to celebrate the start of the festive season,” she said. “Terrapin is a globally recognised Tasmanian arts organisation with an extraordinary ability to spark imagination and create memorable experiences for audiences of all ages. “We’re excited to see how Terrapin’s creativity helps
community groups develop vibrant and engaging entries, and we can’t wait to unveil a spectacular new puppet at this year’s pageant.” Terrapin artistic director Sam Routledge said being involved in the pageant fulfilled a long-held ambition for the company. “It’s been a long-held dream for Terrapin to be synonymous with Christmas in Hobart,” he said. “What we love about the Myer City of Hobart Christmas Pageant is that it’s meeting people where they are. “It’s the arts at its most approachable: free, outdoors, and made side by side with the community. “Let the silly season begin.” The City of Hobart is also inviting community groups, creatives, performers, schools,
clubs, organisations and community-focused businesses to apply to participate in this year’s parade. Mayor Reynolds said the pageant provided an opportunity for participants to share their creativity, culture and festive spirit with thousands of spectators. “The pageant is a wonderful showcase of the people and organisations that make our community so vibrant,” she said. “Whether you’re a school, sporting club, arts group, community organisation or local business, we encourage you to be part of this iconic Hobart tradition.” Expressions of Interest are open until Monday 7 September. Terrapin Artistic Director Sam Routledge and roving puppet Mr Big
Hobart Observer SEPTEMBER 2026 21
Advertisement
Stay warm without the worry Accessing a new energy efficient heat pump is now even more affordable for low-income households with a $1500 subsidy and no interest loan
TASMANIANS living on low incomes can now receive a subsidy of up to $1500 on a brand-new energy efficient heat pump when purchased with a no interest loan with NILS Network Tasmania. The increased subsidy commenced in August and is supported by long-term partner, Aurora Energy. NILS Network CEO
John Hooper said the impact of the increased subsidy could be lifechanging for households experiencing financial stress. “Our clients often come to us with complex needs and challenges but having access to an energy efficient appliance like a heat pump, combined with an affordable loan, can make a huge difference on
their comfort, financial security and their energy bills,” he said. “Recently a client was able to install a second heat pump before her terminally ill brother came to live with her, making a massive difference on his comfort without putting strain on her budget.” For more than 24 years, the NILS network has provided financial stability
and energy efficiency for low-income households across the state. Aurora Energy’s initial capital contribution of $300,000, plus an additional $3.1M in subsidy funding over the last 11 years has saved Tasmanians an estimated $24M. NILS Network client Puspa said, as a single mum, she was very reliant
on a strict budget with the pension. “One of the things that I love about NILS is they will not lend me more than what I can afford. We worked out the budget, the three-month bank statements, what was coming in, what was going out,” she said. “I learned more in financial literacy through NILS than what I had in
the real world.” Aurora Energy CEO Nigel Clark said that the state-owned electricity retailer recognised that giving low-income Tasmanians access to efficient, quality appliances would not only help reduce energy bills but also thousands of dollars in predatory debt. “Last year Aurora Energy’s support saved
Manage payments, see how much electricity you’re using, and when, access free electricity with Power Hours events and more. It’s all on the aurora+ app – free to download and free to use. For more information visit auroraenergy.com.au/plus
low-income Tasmanians over $340,000 in predatory interest,” he said. “We are so proud of our partnership with NILS and encourage all Tasmanians, no matter their financial situation, to access the many benefits from smart, energy-efficient appliances.” Visit nilstasmania.org.au for further information.
22 Hobart Observer SEPTEMBER 2026
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Community News
Indian community celebrates 80th Independence Day in Tasmania
India’s 80th Independence Day celebrations at the Baha’i Centre of Learning
MEMBERS of Tasmania’s Indian community, political representatives and community leaders gathered at the Baha’i Centre of Learning for Tasmania on 15 August to mark India’s 80th Independence Day. The event was hosted by the Honorary Consulate of India in Tasmania and attended by people from
across the Tasmanian community. Tasmania’s Leader of the Opposition, Hon. Josh Willie MP, attended the ceremony and was welcomed by the Honorary Consul of India in Tasmania, Ms Navpreet Kaur. Mr Willie recognised the contribution of Indian Australians to Tasmania’s communities,
workplaces, businesses and public institutions. “I was honoured to celebrate the 80th Independence Day of India today, and I say again here to members of the Indian community in Tasmania: thank you for your contributions to our little island state. We are a better state because of you,” Mr Willie said. Mr Willie also spoke
about multiculturalism and the importance of engagement between people from different cultural backgrounds. “Our differences are far fewer than some people imagine, and it is in those differences that the greatest opportunities lie,” he said. “So here is to multiculturalism.
“It is, and always will be, one of our greatest strengths.” Ms Kaur spoke about India’s history since independence and the role of community events in maintaining cultural connections and strengthening relations between India and Australia. She also acknowledged the support of the
Indian Cultural Society of Tasmania, as well as volunteers, performers, community organisations and attendees who contributed to the event. The program included music and dance performances representing different regions and traditions of India. Attendees also had the opportunity to meet community members
and participate in the cultural program. The event brought together members of the Indian community and the broader Tasmanian community to mark India’s Independence Day and recognise the cultural and community links between Tasmania and India.
Sport
Fairbrother Construction to build Tasmania Devils’ High Performance Centre
Render of Tasmania Football Club’s High Performance Centre at the Twin Ovals in Kingston
TASMANIAN company Fairbrother Construction has been appointed to build the Tasmania Football Club’s High Performance Centre at the Twin Ovals in Kingston, with work set to begin immediately. The 9,000 square metre centre is the second key piece of infrastructure for the Club, following Batchelor Construction Group’s civil works on Oval 3, which began in July. The development will house the Club’s elite men’s and women’s football programs as well as its administration staff, with the aim of creating one of the premier facilities in the country. The Tasmanian
Government is investing $105 million into the project. Tasmania Football Club CEO Brendon Gale said the appointment of Fairbrother marked a major milestone for the Club. “This is a huge step forward for our Club, our High Performance Centre is an anchor project for our Club,” he said. “This facility is key to accommodating our staff, attracting and retaining talent and providing an elite environment that will set us up to compete in the AFL and AFLW. “A project like this doesn’t happen without genuine partnership, and we’re incredibly grateful for the support of the Tasmanian Government,
AFL, Kingborough Council and the local community throughout this process. “To have a proud Tasmanian company like Fairbrother building this facility, creating local jobs and apprenticeship opportunities for Tasmanians, is something that sits at the core of what we stand for at the Devils. “We’re pleased to be part of a growing precinct alongside some great fellow tenants including the Knights, Tigers and JackJumpers – this is a precinct for the whole community, not just the Devils.” Minister for Sport Nick Duigan said the project would deliver benefits well beyond football.
“Projects such as these create local jobs, support Tasmanian businesses, and help build a sporting precinct the whole state can be proud of,” he said. “This is another important milestone as we count down to the Devils’ entry into the AFL and AFLW in 2028.” Kingborough Council Acting Mayor Christian Street said the project reflected the region’s growing role as a hub for sport and community investment. “Council welcomes the certainty this appointment brings as the project moves into delivery at Kingston’s Twin Ovals,” he said. “Beyond the facility itself, this investment will help generate lasting
economic activity across Kingborough, from increased visitation to flow-on benefits for local suppliers, traders and service industries.” The centre will include industry-leading sport technology, medical and recovery areas, including hot/cold and magnesium plunge pools and infrared saunas, along with one of the largest gymnasiums and indoor training areas in the AFL. AFL Executive General Manager – Finance, Broadcast and Infrastructure Matthew Chun said the announcement showed the Devils were hitting the infrastructure milestones required for 2028. “We look forward
to seeing it take shape as the Devils continue their preparations to become the AFL and AFLW’s nineteenth and newest club, and it is a credit to the Club and all stakeholders involved who helped bring this project to life,” he said. Fairbrother CEO Kurt Arnold said the project was a significant opportunity for the Tasmanian business. “As a proud Tasmanian company, we’re honoured to be trusted with a project of this scale and significance,” he said. “This is one of the most significant sporting infrastructure projects Tasmania has seen in recent years, and we’re looking forward to
working closely with the Devils to deliver a facility that is exceptional for our Club and that the whole state can be proud of.” The development also includes a redevelopment of the current main training oval at the Twin Ovals, which will share the same dimensions as the Melbourne Cricket Ground and is due for completion by October 2027, ahead of the Club’s first AFL pre-season. The High Performance Centre is expected to be completed by mid2028. Until then, the Club’s elite programs will be based at the current clubrooms at Kingborough Cricket and Football Club.
OBSERVER SPORT 24 Hobart Observer SEPTEMBER 2026
New Tasmania Jewels mascot Queenie with some aspriring basketball players
Queenie set to bring the buzz to MyState Bank Arena FANS attending Tasmania Jewels games at MyState Bank Arena this season will have a new courtside personality to cheer on with the club officially unveiling its mascot, Queenie. The Queen Ant will join Jack the Jumper in entertaining crowds when the Tasmania Jewels take to the court for their inaugural WNBL season, bringing plenty of energy,
excitement and fun to game days in Glenorchy. Queenie was officially revealed this week and will spend the lead-up to the season visiting schools, basketball clinics and community events across Tasmania before the Jewels tip off their first game on 15 October. Tasmania Jewels coach Claudia Brassard said Queenie embodied the values of the club.
“The Queen Ant is a leader, she’s strong, confident and unites everyone, and that’s exactly what the Jewels are all about,” she said. “We have an incredible team of players who are here to win and defend the island with humility and authenticity. “Queenie is an important part of our team. She’ll help us boost the visibility and value of
women and girls in sport, leaving a glittering ant trail of inspiration and aspiration wherever she goes.” Jewels and JackJumpers Head of Community Fran Lockhart said Queenie would quickly become a favourite with young fans. “Kids are going to go wild for Queenie,” she said. “She’s sassy, fun,
confident and the best hype-girl. “Since the JackJumpers started in 2021, we’ve seen Jack the Jumper become an icon, kids love him just as much, if not more, than they love the players. “It’s definitely going to be double the trouble to have Queenie join Jack, but together they have such an incredible ability to make fans happy and
inspire kids to have fun and be active.” The mascot launch marks another milestone for the Tasmania Jewels as excitement builds ahead of the club’s first WNBL campaign. Queenie’s arrival is also expected to strengthen the club’s community engagement program, which has already delivered more than 500 school visits and more
than 1,000 basketball clinics across the state over the past five years. Tasmanian business Peachie Clean, founded by Jess Sullivan, will be Queenie’s official partner for her inaugural season. The Jewels will play their first home game at MyState Bank Arena on 15 October, with foundation memberships now available.