The Launceston Lively Magazine July 2023

Welcome to the Launceston Lively Magazine

About Us...

Embodying the very essence of our vibrant city, ‘The Launceston Lively’ stands as a testament to the unique spirit and rich diversity that defines Launceston and its residents.

Founded by the homegrown team at Hyperlocal Media, the creators of ‘Tamar Valley News’, ‘The Launceston Lively’ is more than just a magazine—it’s a celebration of our shared community, our captivating city, and its unforgettable stories. Our dedicated team, all Launceston locals, bring their intimate knowledge of the city and its people,

painting a compelling picture of life in this dynamic locale. As a local business ourselves, we champion the local economy at every turn. From sourcing Tasmanian-made paper for our print editions to partnering with local suppliers, our operations contribute to the vibrant local economy, ensuring that every dollar spent circles back within our community. It’s part of our commitment to make Launceston not just a lively city to live in, but a thriving one to work in as well.

Living up to our motto, ‘Stay Informed, Stay Lively, Stay Launceston’, we offer

a captivating blend of local content that keeps you connected to the heartbeat of our community. From the latest in food and fashion, profiles on extraordinary local personalities, comprehensive coverage of events, and spotlight features on businesses that are the backbone of our economy, we bring Launceston to life in a way that only locals can.

Join us in this journey of discovery as we delve into the rich tapestry of Launceston’s life, bringing our readers not just information, but the essence of what it means to be part of this lively and flourishing community.

Word on the Street: Younger Generations Find it Harder to Get a House

By Leila Yarrow

It’s a well-known fact that times have changed, especially when it comes to owning properties for young people. Buying a house used to seem like a target goal for the majority in their 20’s, maybe even at the ripe age of 18, but is now only a hopeful possibility for the younger generations. Perhaps for many, not even a goal. Many are wondering about the decline of housing affordability and the decline of young adults who aspire to have their own house. Not only has homes gotten expensive, but living has gotten expensive too.

It is important to hear from people directly about such issues, which is why we took it upon ourselves to interview numerous people in Launceston about housing and property related topics. When anyone was asked if it was hard to buy your own home nowadays, everyone said it was. From old, to young, it seems as though it’s just a fact that it has gotten way more difficult. Interviewees that were aged below 25 did not own a house of their own. Middle-aged to older locals spoke about how being a young adult is very different, comparing the past to now.

When the topic arose of wanting a house, to get married and to have kids, Garry Shaw responded, “I don’t know how old you are, but I guarantee you it’ll be hard for you now to do all that, what you just said

and compared to what we did back in our days.” The independence of young people seems to have been stripped away. When asked about how hard it was to buy your own house, Summer, aged 19, replied, “Nowadays, very difficult. Very trial and error though, especially with trying to find a suitable environment for your family or even just yourself to try and manage independently.”

Australian home ownership data from the 2021 Census show that the home ownership rate of 67% has gone down, comparing it to the 70% in 2006. The percentage has been stable, remaining around 65-70% from the early 1970’s. However, the striking difference in rates has been the age groups that own a house. The home ownership rate of 30-34 year old’s was 64% in 1971, and has since decreased to 50% in 2021. For younger Australians, aged 25-29, the difference was the same decrease of 14% - instead going from 50% to 36%. Imagine the low numbers for those aged 18-24!

“I’m 65 and I’ve never seen so many kids live with their parents to a long age.”

– Garry Shaw, 65.

It’s a common theme to joke about the full-grown adult living in their mum’s basement, and it seems to be coming to fruition for many. Since 1981, there’s been increasing numbers of people

living with their parents past the age of 20, data shows. This is to be expected due to housing affordability declining drastically since then, however, it may also be due to rent affordability declining as well. Australian rental affordability has dropped to a new time low with shocking data showing that the average household spends a third of their income on rent. This has many consequences for how people will be living their lives today. “And I think that’s where a lot of mental health comes into it as well, because, you know, a lot of the young kids, when they do move back to their mums and dads, they think they’ve

failed,” Garry commented, “when they haven’t.” The cost of living has noticeably gotten higher, too. Some have been slightly affected by the food prices going up, but some have taken a greater hit to the wallet. “I mean, it’s either we don’t have breakfast but we get to have a little bit of lunch,” Summer continued, “But if we have most at dinner, we don’t have anything for tomorrow.”

Hannah, a young person we spoke to said, “I feel like it’s affected a lot of people. Lots of people have to buy different foods and budget accordingly.”

Not only does food prices going up make it so some people have to go hungry, but it can also make the price of being healthy a lot more expensive. I think we can all agree that it can take a toll on your mental and physical health having to have a diet mostly made up on fast food and cheap junk food.

All of this may contribute to a new way of living and a delay in wanting to have kids. Many studies show that women are becoming mothers at a later age and a lot of families are having less children. This change may be due to numerous factors, such as

people valuing jobs and not wanting to settle down so soon, however the cost of living would certainly be a reason for many.

As time goes on, it’s natural for our way of living and how we view the world to change. You may be able to see this change in real life around you and on social media. There’s been an uprise of people making their own “tiny homes” and many living in a caravan. What used to be a choice has turned into a necessity for some. Whether this will shift or not, depends on the people as well as those who dictate the prices of living.

Local Info Community Gardening Sessions

Have you ever wanted to grow your own veggies and herbs, and maybe save a bit of money along the way as well? The idea of cultivating your own produce is not only rewarding but also allows you to have control over the quality and freshness of the food you consume. However, if you’re someone who is new to gardening and has no clue where to start, don’t worry, you’re not alone.

Embarking on a journey of growing your own vegetables

and herbs may seem intimidating at first, but with a little guidance and perseverance, you can become a successful home gardener and enjoy the benefits of growing your own produce.

If your new to gardening, or looking at sharing your ‘green thumb’ skills and connecting with local people, the University of Tasmania holds weekly community gardening sessions from 9am-11am each Thursday at the Inveresk Com-

World Street Eats 2023

Launceston’s Civic Square is playing host to a family friendly market, celebrating the diversity we have here in our community.

Inspired by the multiculturalism in Launceston, a vibrant community food event known as World Street Eats aims to create an immersive experience where locals and visitors alike can indulge in authentic cuisine and internationally-inspired flavours, diverse art and

entertainment, and celebrate the diverse heritages that make up the tapestry of Launceston.

With flavours that evoke memories, traditions, and culinary heritage, World Street Eats creates an inviting space where individuals from all walks of life can gather, share meals, and embrace the cultural diversity of Launceston.

Patrons can expect to expe-

munity Garden (2 Invermay Road, Invermay)

Established in 2022, the Community Food Garden has been providing members of the public with the skills to nurture their gardens and open a world of possibilities when it comes to growing their own vegetables and herbs at home. More information available on the Launceston City Council website www.launceston.tas. gov.au

rience delicious international food, music and other culturally-relevant activities in a welcoming family-friendly atmosphere.

Located at Civic Square, the market is held every 3rd Sunday from 11am to 3pm.

More information available on the World Street Eats website, worldstreeteats.com. au

Mental Health First Aid

Mental Health First Aid® (MHFA™)

courses are designed to teach the everyday Australian the skills required to provide first aid to an individual who may be developing a mental health problem, or is in crisis. BOOK

2 Day Mental Health First Aid Course

This 2 Day course covers Depression, Anxiety, Psychosis and Substance Use Problems, as well as Mental Health First Aid for crisis situations, including Suicidal thoughts and behaviours, panic attacks, traumatic events, Non-Suicidal Self-Injury, Severe Psychotic States, Severe effects from alcohol or other drug use, and aggressive behaviours.

Cost: $250 - Includes 3-Year Accreditation as a Mental Health First Aider, and all learning materials provided.

Courses are held each month at The Launceston Conference Centre, with free on-site parking and a café located onsite.

Become an Accredited Mental Health First Aider!

mentalhealthlearningaustralia.com/courses

Remember when... Rediscovering Launceston’s history

By Ezra Davidson

Launceston’s Old Brisbane Arcade is showcasing an exhibition this winter, bringing local nostalgia to the forefront as part of the Launceston Memory Lane event. This unique exhibition pays homage to the city’s past 50 years, capturing the essence of bygone days in the city center.

Curated by Launceston resident Andrew Johnson, in collaboration with the storytelling expertise of Ali Kerr, the Memory Lane exhibition proudly presents a collection of photographs and memorabilia spanning the last half-century. These carefully selected artifacts aim to evoke fond memories and spark reminiscences of Launceston’s vibrant history. “We’ve trawled the archives and worked with local organisations such as Theatre North, QVMAG and the Chamber of Commerce to find some wonderful artefacts from the last 50 years and we’re inviting everyone to ‘Remember when...’,” said Mr Johnson.

“Whether its skating at Roller

World, buying cassette tapes at Wills, or buying flowers at Hinton Lloyd or the Quadrant Mall flower cart, we invite you to come along and see whether your best memories of Launceston city centre are on display,” he said.

The exhibition was conceived by Launceston Central, previously known as Cityprom, as part of the organisation’s rebranding. With over 30 years of dedicated city marketing and activation, Cityprom recently relaunched as Launceston Central: your guide to the city.

“We thought, what better way to say hello to the future of the city than with a look back at the past,” said Launceston Central’s Executive Officer, Amanda McEvoy.

“The Launceston Memory Lane exhibition is a tribute to the people, businesses and memories that have shaped our city over the past 50 years as we look to the future with the launch of our new brand and website,” Ms. McEvoy added.

Considering the multitude of significant developments currently underway in Launceston, such as The Shed, Penny Royal, Rebel Sport, St Luke’s Health, and the revitalization of the old Polly Shoes building, it is enthralling to contemplate the city’s future and what we might look back on in another 50 years.

As part of the exhibition, visitors are encouraged to share their adoration for Launceston in 2023, for an opportunity to contribute to a time capsule. By doing so, they will also have a chance to win an exciting city staycation.

The Launceston Memory Lane exhibition can be enjoyed daily at the Old Brisbane Arcade, starting from Wednesday, June 14th, and will run until Monday, August 14th. Admission is free, welcoming all to relish the historical journey through Launceston’s captivating past.

For more details visit launcestoncentral.com.au

Photo: Launceston Central on Facebook

Word on the Street: Are Locals Wanting to Stay in Launceston?

By Leila Yarrow

Launceston is known for its nature and landscapes, which is usually the primary reason for tourists to venture down. A busy, city-like area can be suffocating to many and a place like Launceston can offer a more country-esque atmosphere that a lot of people find relaxing.

As many reasons there is to leave, there’s also many reasons to stay in your hometown. For example, you may want to stay with family or friends, or it’s the simple reason of feeling comfortable with familiarity. Older folks tend to want a more stable and relaxing lifestyle, which can make a small hometown perfect.

However, as a common theme throughout time, young people tend to want new experiences and may be more interested in a city with fun events and fun people. Is Launceston satiating this need for its locals?

Young people are known to be gravitated towards a livelier lifestyle. Whether it be partying, shopping, going to the latest events, or socialising, many of these factors can contribute to where someone decides to live. Is this simply not the case for the young locals of Launceston, or are these reasons the most common for locals to be leaving?

I approached young locals strolling about their day and

asked them the question: do you plan on staying in Launceston in the future?

Summer, aged 19, answered, “I’m gonna be honest, probably not, but I probably would come back.” She went more in depth, “I just crave adventure and exploration, and Tasmania is beautiful. Launnie is beautiful, actually. But I need excitement.”

The common denominator seemed to be the need for new things and wanting more than what you have. Which is perfectly normal for a young person. Younger Australians are the most likely to be on the move, statistics show. According to census data, Queensland is the top destination for people moving from other states and territories. The sunshine state has a reputation for the night life and sunny days it gives. All this information combined reads that young people are moving for the liveliness and perhaps the warmer weather.

Hannah, a young adult who currently lives in Queensland but was visiting Launceston, commented on Queensland, “Yeah, it’s nice. Like very busy so it’s nice, not too quiet.” Another young adult who moved from Launceston to Hobart, talked about Hobart, “Night life is a lot better. It’s very lively.”

Although, this ‘liveliness’ that is seen in more places than Launceston, can also be a

con to people. Sharon Shaw, aged 64, said, “We wanted somewhere quieter to live.” Having originally been from Sydney, they travelled down to Launceston, comparing the two. “We wanted a laid back lifestyle. Easy going, not so rushed, you know…” Sharon went further in depth. Her husband, Garry Shaw, aged 65, talked about their love of Tasmania, “I’m amazed, as I said. My dad was born and bred here and I used to come here every year when I was young and there’s so much apart of Tasmania I haven’t seen… So you know, we’re doing a lot of travelling around here.”

Launceston has its own unique atmosphere that many grow to love and can’t quite fully leave. Regardless of what environment you want to live in, Tasmania keeps their locals and newcomers coming back for more. Perhaps, younger locals will feel the same in time.

Tips to De-clutter your home

With the cooler months upon us it is likely that you are finding yourself spending more time inside your home. But hey, if your home is anything like mine it is sometimes bulging at the seams with clutter, boxes, kids toys and that good old “I’ll keep that for later” drawer.

To be honest, we may not realise it but our hoarding habits can in fact to take a toll on our wellbeing and impact how we feel within our homes.

So, here are some helpful steps to declutter your home and love your space again.

1. Clear the clutter – donate, sell or dispose

There are many in our community that are doing it tough and a great way to support them is by donating quality items such as clothing, books, kitchenware and anything else which charities are calling out for.

And of course, you can always list items for sale or give away

on sites like Facebook marketplace and Gumtree. This process can include checking with family and friends to see if they have an immediate need for anything you want to get rid of.

Work room by room to select items which can be donated, sold or disposed of.

2. Organise – clever and purposeful storage solutions

You may have heard the old saying ‘A place for everything and everything in its place’?.

Well, this idea still rings true. Essentially, we want to ensure that whatever we decide to keep from the decluttering process, has somewhere to be stored and that it should be tidily returned there when not in use.

Look within cupboards and drawers to determine how items can be contained and divided for easy identification and use.

For example, drawer and shelf dividers, storage baskets, clear containers, labels, racks, hooks, crates and caddies are

all perfect examples of things we can use to contain and organise our homes. Whether it be the pantry, bathroom, wardrobe or garage there is always an organisation solution to suit! Places like Howards Storage World, Organised HQ, Target, Kmart and Bunnings are great places to start.

3. Maintain – We have cleared the clutter, now to maintain a tidy home

Once you have decluttered, contained and organised where everything will live you

need to ensure that organisation is maintained.

Aim to see an empty drawer, shelf or cupboard in each room to allow for future needs. A monthly review of any areas which might appear to be untidy again will help ensure that your home remains in a clutter free state. Consistency is key!

Happy organising!

Gabrielle Towns Interior Designer

About the Author: Gabrielle is a Launceston based Interior Designer with over 10 years’ experience. She works closely with both residential and commercial clients to create beautiful, considered spaces. A lover of all things art, architecture and design, Gabrielle has extensive experience across project management, client communication and interior finish selections.

When she is not designing you will find her at the easel painting, puzzling with a glass of wine, renovating or enjoying time at the beach with her family.

Meet one of many young Launceston Entrepreneurs

By Toby Strochnetter

Miles Hirst is a young entrepreneur, running his own Launceston-based business.

From being a primary schooler starting a small business of selling crafted rubber bands on the school yard, to now, a 21-year-old with his own window cleaning business.

What’s your business called?

Refined Window Cleaning.

How old are you? 21.

How would you describe yourself as a person?

Well, I think I’m a compassionate person. I subconsciously

look out for those that are around me.

Have you always wanted to be an entrepreneur? It’s not something I gave a whole lot of thought to when I was younger, but there were certain signs as I was growing up. The influence of my old man, having a business and stuff rubbed off somewhat. Having an independent nature is probably another contributing factor. When I was in primary school, we had like these… Remember silly bands? Whatever they were, where you used the rubber bands to make stuff out of them. I tried to start a little business out of that, I can’t remember if it was too suc-

cessful or not.

Can you explain what your business does?

So, we’re a specialised window cleaning company. We specialise in using telescopic water fed poles, and customers love that because we can reach hard to get places that might otherwise be impossible to get access or require a ladder. And, we use a water purification system so that the windows

dry spot, streak and stain free. I like to keep things simple. We’ll just do exterior windows most of the time, sometimes you’re subcontracting out the interior windows if it’s something the customer wants to get done.

Would you say you’re the best in the field?

I wouldn’t say that, no. I think different businesses bring different strengths and bring different things to the table. I wouldn’t label anyone the best.

What’s your biggest learning curve in business?

The hardest thing would have to be getting started. After that, it’s surprisingly easy if you’re consistent with what you’re doing.

But getting started is the thing that’s going to take time and effort, but after that, it’s a smooth and sailing ship. Then, it’s usually good.

I think the biggest lie a lot of people are told is that it’s not that simple. And your dreams aren’t that simple. You can’t just do this. You can’t do that. When in reality, a lot of the time, it is. You just need to get started.

What’s the best thing you’ve learned in business?

To put the customer’s need first and a lot of things will take care of themselves, if you make your main focus around the customer.

What’s your biggest regret in business, or mistake you’ve made?

Not getting started sooner.

In your business, what’s one of the most surprising unique quirks that you found while you’re building it?

I would say how easy it is to get started if you’re pushing a good product and good vision.

I had learned from my mistake with my previous business that I didn’t get fully up and running.

So, with the refined window cleaning, I think from the time my equipment had arrived I had a six-day turnaround or five-day turn around till I started advertising and got my first job.

I think if you have a great product and a great vision, you’ll be surprised how quickly people buy into it and see the value in the service you’re offering.

That would be the biggest surprise, or quirk that I found, was how willing people are to help a young start up.

What’s your plans for the future in business?

Definitely keeping an open mind about things. I’m studying property at the moment, so I’m interested in getting into the real estate side of field. But I guess my main objective at the moment is going somewhere. I mean, Launceston has its fair share of opportunities. There’s great opportunities here, if you know where to look for them. But I guess my main goal at the moment I’m focusing on is moving interstate. Kind of throwing myself in the deep end.

I’d like to be more attuned to my environment and less complacent, which means opening myself up to opportunities more.

Do you have any advice for those, young and old, looking into starting a business?

Get started and start small. You don’t want to worry about

preparing your business, preparing to launch a business for six months to a year. You want to ideally get up and running in a few weeks because sometimes you can procrastinate with wanting to get everything perfect off the bat that you end up not starting the business at all and that’s something I’ve seen in my experience firsthand with a business prior to Refined Window Cleaning.

I would say you’re going to get rejection and potentially get rejection from family members and those that you love, but you can’t take it to heart. You must execute your goal and believe in your own vision. Have persistence and courage and just whatever you do never give up because most people do, and that’s why they never I guess achieve what they started out to achieve.

Would you recommend people start making business more personal?

Yeah well, when you’re first starting up I would 100% recommend to utilise community groups, Facebook groups, family and friends, as they will be the ones that support you the most. So, yeah, Facebook can be a massive tool for you when you’re first getting started and yeah, just posting to some local groups. Explain what you’re doing and hope the people back your vision.

How can people support your business?

I encourage anyone interested in Refined Window Cleaning services to give us a call, if you mention this article we’ll give you a $50 discount. We’re a company that has the customer at heart and that’s something that we don’t compromise on.

Dinner and a movie

By Toby Strochnetter

If you’re the type that’s into watching the TV while snacking or eating dinner, Dinner and a movie might be for you.

Event organiser, Mr Watts clarifies, “Dinner and a movie is a free community event. It’s based around live entertainment and food starting from 4:30 on the third Friday of each month, at which time we will show a film after sunset.”

As the seasons change, locals can expect changes to the schedule to ensure everyone’s

comfort, Mr Watts explained. For wintertime, the movies would start at 6.30pm, whilst in the summertime the move would be set to start around 8-8.30pm.

Obviously, whatever you’re watching is important regardless of it being a free event. “We like to show relatively family friendly movies. We’re not showing kids movies. We’re not focusing on documentaries or anything. This is purely for entertainment, and we try to have some quality films.”

“We do try to find some themes here and there. If

we can, in October close to Halloween, we might show a zombie movie or something.”

If you’re a foodie, you’re in for a treat. There’s a good variety of foods to satisfy your hunger, as well as beverages.

Sounds tempting, right? Well, seating arrangements matter when enjoying a movie and delicious food. Luckily, this event offers cozy options like council chairs, tables, and umbrellas for ample seating. And if you need further persuasion, there are plans to add bean bags or lounge chairs for ultimate comfort.

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Federally funded project supports early flood warnings

Residents in low-lying areas of Launceston are set to benefit from a new early detection system for riverine flooding after recent funding from the Federal Government’s Disaster Ready Fund.

The City of Launceston and Launceston Flood Authority will also contribute to the Flood Intelligence and Early Warning Detection System project, which will see the development of a new flood detection system comprising new smart river level gauges, upgrades to existing gauges, installation of new monitoring cameras, educational flood markers, and a publicly accessible online interface.

City of Launceston Acting Mayor Matthew Garwood said the Flood Intelligence and Early Warning Detection System project was aimed at educating Launceston residents on flood risk, and providing enhanced early warning and flood monitoring technology to benefit the community and emergency services.

“Established at the junction of three rivers, Launceston is a city that has experienced many floods in its history,” Cr Garwood said.

“The most significant flood event in Launceston took place in 1929 when more than 2000 homes and buildings were damaged or destroyed in low-lying parts of the city.

Currently, more than 12km of earth and concrete levees safeguard the low-lying areas of Launceston, including 19 flood gates.

In levee-protected areas of the city, over 5000 Launceston residents reside in homes, while more than 400 businesses operate, benefiting from enhanced safety measures.

From vision to reality

By Zac Lockhart

In a world brimming with dreams and opportunities, Suzy Wadley’s remarkable journey stands as an inspiring testament to the pursuit of one’s passions. With unwavering determination, she transformed her vision into a thriving business venture—a unique café and homewares store with an intentional focus on supporting women entrepreneurs and sourcing products made in Tasmania and/or Australia.

Suzy was inspired to start her business venture a few years ago after she read an article that asked the question; “If you could envision your perfect life, what would it look like?”. At the time Suzy was in

between jobs and after feeling the stress of working in the finance industry, she didn’t want to pursue this as career.

Having visited the Loft under its previous ownership on numerous occasions, Suzy began to follow them on their Instagram page. “It’s just a lovely little shop that I used to come into and then I just happened to see that it was going to be put up for sale,” Suzy said. It was at this moment that a powerful longing stirred within her, even though she acknowledged the intimidating nature of the idea. With few financial obligations, Suzy had the confidence to proceed with reassurance that if she were to fail, it wouldn’t have a devastating impact on her financial wellbeing.

Since taking over, a coffee bar has been installed and other notable changes to the store such as some of the stock available for purchasing. “I’ve bought Will & Bear Hats, which there’s only one other stockist in Tasmania.”

Having no previous experience working in this type of environment, Suzy acknowledged she was still learning the ropes and said it wasn’t as simple as purchasing the stock as there are certain restrictions and brand approvals to navigate.

The inventory assortment is expected to undergo changes through this new adjustment phase as Suzy figures out what she would like to sell, and what her customers are really looking for. Rather than focussing on mass produced

ABOVE: Suzy Wadley and her daughter Kayla at the Loft on St John. BOTTOM-RIGHT: Books are one of the more popular products available at The Loft. (PHOTOS: Zac Lockhart)

products, she is keen to support Tasmanian/Australian owned businesses and businesses owned by woman.

Since the store doesn’t have a traditional shop front due to being a heritage listed building, it can be challenging for her to attract attention from passersby, leading to her needing to think outside the box to make people aware of her presence.

“I’m really trying to think outside the box and think, well, how can I actually attract business in here when we’re not a traditional shop in the city.”

While there is some flexibility for modifications inside the store, the heritage restrictions have significantly limited what they can do to the exterior of the shop. This results in the lack of the traditional shop-

front with large windows that attract attention.

Some of the best-selling products, excluding coffee, are books and products from the al.ive range. Interestingly, even after the closure of bookstores, there continues to be a strong attraction towards books, particularly those that are distinctive and unique. Additionally, gift type stock has been selling remarkably well, as a substantial number of their customers visit the store in search of something special for their loved ones.

“We try our best to research and vet the brands before bringing them into the shop. However, sometimes it’s like navigating smoke and mirrors. Supply chains can be complex, and it’s often challenging to trace the origin of a product. We strive to find Austra-

lian-made options, but we also consider reputable international brands if we can’t find suitable local alternatives.”

Suzy’s day at the Loft often starts before the doors open at 8am. The mornings are bustling with a growing number of regular customers, including nearby police officers. The rest of the day sees a steady flow of customers, with peak periods during lunch and early afternoon until the espresso bar closes at 4pm.

“I’ve always been drawn to making living spaces beautiful. Even the simplest things, like a cup of coffee in a beautiful mug, can add to the aesthetics of everyday life. It’s about creating an environment that is visually pleasing. If I had the chance, I would have pursued this path from the beginning.”

Recipe of the month:

Choc-cherry coconut slices

Prep time: 30 mins

Cooking time: 35 mins

Makes 15

Ingredients:

Cooking oil spray, for greasing

1 cup hazelnut meal

1 cup plain flour

125g butter, chopped

⅓ cup caster sugar

½ cup cocoa powder

2 eggs

2 tablespoons of water

Extra flour, for kneading

Extra ½ cup caster sugar

1 tsp vanilla extract

2½ cups desiccated coconut

200g glacé cherries, chopped

½ cup dried cranberries

200g dark chocolate, chopped

Method:

1. Preheat oven to 200°C. Grease a slice tin and line with baking paper. Put flour, butter, hazelnuts, sugar and cocoa in a food processor and process until mixture looks like coarse breadcrumbs. Remember to add enough water to bring dough together. Put onto a lightly floured surface and knead until dough comes together. Roll out to fit base of prepared tin. Put dough in the slice tin and bake for 20-25 minutes. Then let it cool.

2. Put eggs and extra sugar in a bowl. Add vanilla and beat until it’s thick and

pale yellow. Add coconut, cherry and cranberries. Stir until combined.

3. Spoon mixture onto base and spread evenly to edges. Bake for 6-8 minutes or until firm to touch, then pull it out and let it cool.

4. Put chocolate in a heatproof bowl and stir over a pan of simmering water until smooth. Pour over filling, spread smooth, then use a knife handle to make grooves in top.

5. Refrigerate for 20 minutes or until chocolate is just set.

To serve, cut slice into rectangles using a large knife.

Trivial Tales

Most of us have heard the saying, “I was just pulling your leg”. How many of us actually know the meaning or origin of this idiom though?

From ‘only joking’ or ‘teasing in a friendly way’ to the Victorian period theory of thieves pulling unsuspecting victim’s legs in order to pick their pocket, there has been another possible context; this one, much darker. This theory, also from the Victorian period - specifically from Tyburn, the place where public hangings were carried out.

“Pulling someone’s leg” is said to refer to the act of mercifully ending a hanging quickly by pulling on the person’s leg/legs.

An interesting anecdote that may eerily refer to leg pulling.

Jokes

I invented a new word... Plagiarism!

Did you hear about the claustrophobic astronaut? He just needed a little space.

‘I went to the doctors the other day and I said, ‘Have you got

anything for wind?’ So he gave me a kite.

I threw a boomerang a few years ago... I now live in constant fear.

Parallel lines have a lot in common, shame they won’t meet.

Photo Competition

PHOTOGRAPHER: Zac Lockhart

For a chance to have your photo featured in the Launceston Lively Magazine, and win a $250 print voucher to spend at Launceston Camera House, simply send in your best photo of Launceston or surrounds by visiting launcestonlively.com. au/photo-competition

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Our monthly photo competition is made possible thanks to the support of Launceston Camera House.

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PHOTO: The view of Launceston’s Riverbend and Seaport Precincts from the air

Local Info Harvest Market Adventures: Exploring fresh produce

By Kristy Williams

Step into the enchanting world of our vibrant harvest market, where the air is filled with the irresistible aromas of fresh produce. Rain, hail or shine the Cimitere Street Carpark is filled with the bustling noise of locals moving about the stalls.

Held every Saturday from 8.30am, baskets and bags can be seen brimming with the finest fruits and vegetables, each radiating vibrant colours and the promise of quality

flavour.

But it’s not just about the fruits and vegetables, at this market you’ll find handcrafted bear, mead, cider and spirits along with honey, nuts and grains, pickles and preserves, cured meats and so much more!

To complete your visit, immerse yourself in a sea of colours with vibrant flowers and edible plants that add a touch of natural beauty to your surroundings.

Harvest provides a critical outlet for Tasmania’s primary producers and a platform for small businesses. An essential link in the food chain that keeps millions of dollars in the local economy every year.

By shopping at Harvest you are supporting the local food economy and the Tasmanian community.

For more information, visit the Harvest Market website harvestmarket.org.au

Mudflats and Mysteries: Exploring the Curious Artifacts of Launceston’s Tamar Estuary

As the ebb and flow of the tides reveal the hidden secrets of nature, the muddy banks of the Tamar Estuary in Launceston hold a treasure trove of peculiar artifacts. Amidst the mud flats, a vibrant world sometimes emerges, showcasing the unexpected remnants of human life and captivating the attention of both locals and visitors alike.

Sitting on the concrete boat ramp lies a sight that raises eyebrows and sparks curiosity—an eerie yellow rusted bike, still covered in mud after being dragged out of the mud flats at low tide. The bike, now a ghostly relic of the past, stands as a testament to the uncanny power of nature to preserve fragments of our history. Its origins and the circumstances

surrounding its watery demise remain shrouded in mystery, inviting us to speculate and weave stories of forgotten adventures.

Whilst the washing up of

these artifacts more often follows flooding, It also serves as a constant reminder for us to be careful of how we discard of our rubbish and unwanted goods, you just never know where it might end up…

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