Volume 32, Wednesday 30 August 2023

Bike park blow out Forestry industry confident in future

BY RACHEL WILLIAMS

THE NORTH-EAST forestry industry is gearing up for what locals say is a bright future with significant investment and development opportunity in the pipeline.

A major upgrade at CMTP’s Branxholm Sawmill is being progressed, innovative

new businesses are investing in machinery to capitalise on growing global fibre demand and one of the region’s young workers is in line to win Tasmania’s trainee of the year title.

Confidence in the sector has also led to more job opportunities, with positions available across the region for workers

across a range of roles.

CMTP Tasmania General Manager Dale Jessup said he was confident in the region’s forestry future – a far cry from just a decade ago when the region suffered from the liquidation of Gunns and the downturn following the Tasmanian Forestry Agreement restructure.

Mr Jessup said CMTP hoped to invest in equipment to double capacity at the Branxholm Sawmill, increasing throughput to 90,000 tonnes within the same operating hours, by the end of 2025.

“The extra timber would all be processed on a single shift because we have strict EPA

■ STORY CONTINUES- PAGE 5

Noah Hay, Cooper Hockley, Archie Fish, Wes Styles, Tyler Hay and Django Fish at the site of the new Scottsdale Bike Park which is still in planning after four years of community commentary.

10 YEARS AGO | August 28, 2013 Lions help young family

The loss of a family home through fire is a heartbreaking experience and it was one shared by Ebony Davies and Adam Lette in January last year.

Their son Bentley was born a week later and since then the family have started the rebuilding program.

Scottsdale Lions Club president, Wayne Harper presented Ebony, Adam and Bentley with a $5,000 cheque for assistance.

The club quickly recognised the family’s plight and promised assistance, which has now been passed on to the grateful family.

20 YEARS AGO | August, 2003 Death of H V Salier

The death occurred on Sunday of Harold Vincent Salier, aged 87 years.

Mr Salier played a significant role in the municipal, business, and rural affairs of the North-East for more than 50 years.

Mr Salier was elected to the Scottsdale Council in 1948 and served as Warden from 1965 - 1986. He continued to serve the council until 1999.

A successful farmer and original director of the Dewcrisp Factory, Mr Salier was also a former president of the North-East Agricultural and Pastoral Society. He spent a selfless life devoted to the public good and was a recipient of the British Empire Medal.

40 YEARS AGO. | July 21, 1983

Young Cook wins silver medal

A first year apprentice cook at the Queen Victoria Hospital has been awarded a silver medal in the Australian Guild of professional Cooks competition.

She is Heather Carins 16, of Winnaleah, who won the award in the junior section for a special occasion cake, featuring moulded flowers and piping work, from apprentices throughout Australia.

LETTERS

Letters must be short and preference will be given to letters of 250 words or less. Letters may be edited or not printed for space, clarity or legal reasons. Names, addresses and telephone numbers must be included. Unsigned letters or those with pen names will not be published.

RUBBISH REMINDER

I am writing to remind everyone to not throw litter.

When I walk Listers Lane and other areas in North-East Tasmania, including Scottsdale and Bridport, it makes me dismayed to see empty cans, bottles and all sorts of bits and pieces that people have chucked and not put in bins or recycled.

Yes, there is so much plastic now and it’s hard to get away from that.

Reducing from the source is a priority.

Keep North-East Tasmania a beautiful part of our state.

Katherine Crawford Scottsdale.

COUNCIL CONCERN

It seems that it doesn’t matter who is sitting at the Council table we still get the same people asking the same questions that have already been asked and answered.

Worse still were the arrogant and ill-informed comments from the Commissioner about making Council better than when he arrived.

Council has already been one of the most efficient and effective Councils in the State and seven months of a total lack of representation will only take the municipality backwards.

On top of that the loss of at least three councillors, plus the resignations of

hard to replace quality staff, risks taking Council back to the dark ages when we were known as the Council of “NO”. Realistically after this politically motivated fiasco is over, what reasonable person would want to stand for Council?

Greg Howard Jetsonville

STADIUM STANCE

The revelation that the Member for McIntyre, the Hon. Tania Rattray, MLC is a convert to the merits of a new roofed AFL stadium in Hobart will leave many of her constituents totally perplexed. For someone who has been a notable stadium heretic, it is the complete U-Turn to become a true believer.

In an Upper House debate in March 2022, Ms Rattray asked: “Why on earth would this Government believe they need to spend $750 million on a stadium on the waterfront in Hobart?”

Significantly, Ms Rattray questioned the priorities of building a stadium before housing the homeless.

“I gave the example of a family with four children, including a five-week-old baby,” Ms Rattray told Parliament.

“The family was on my doorstep two weeks ago saying we do not have anywhere to go…to be talking about this type of facility… when we do not have houses for people to live in…I suggest we might have our priorities completely around the wrong way.”

Fast forward to 2023 and one must ask; what has happened to the Member for McIntyre’s zeal for prioritising the homeless over a billion-dollar shrine to the AFL in Hobart?

On August 16, 2023, Ms Rattray switched to full-on stadium supporter. Commenting on federal funding, Ms Rattray said: “This sets up Macquarie Point as the future jewel in the crown for Hobart, and I dare say Tasmania, a place where people can live, work, and come together. On the face of what has been presented, that would be fantastic.”

Ms Rattray went further by questioning the need for Parliamentary scrutiny of the stadium, despite her warning last year of cost blowouts; and even though we already have two AFL-standard grounds in Tasmania.

Ms Rattray may be a convert to the ‘build it and they will come’ (her words) approach to development; but what happened to her outrage over prioritising the stadium before the homeless.

Others are asking less comfortable questions: Who or what convinced her to change her mind so significantly? Has Ms Rattray been promised something? Or are transparency and honesty just silly politics?

Lara Alexander, MP Independent Member for Bass

Scottsdale firearm amnesty

A MOBILE firearm amnesty will be held in Scottsdale this Saturday, September 2, at the Recreation Ground in George St.

Residents are being encouraged by Police Minister Felix Ellis to surrender any firearms to avoid the chance of them falling into the wrong hands.

“If you have an unregistered or unwanted firearm, firearm part, ammunition, or imitation firearm, please surrender it at one of our amnesty locations,” Minister Ellis said.

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“If you’re attending an amnesty to surrender items, please drive up to the location, leave the items in your car, and walk up and speak to officers on site who will safely retrieve the items. Please, don’t walk up to an amnesty location carrying a firearm.

“If you have items to surrender but you’re unable or uncomfortable to take items to the amnesty, please phone police and collection can be organised.

“There are no penalties associated with surrendering firearms during an amnesty regardless of how they may have come into people’s possession.”

Mr Ellis said that if Dorset residents could not attend this Saturday’s amnesty, they could hand in unregistered and unwanted firearms at their local police station without fear of being prosecuted.

The Scottsdale firearm amnesty will take place from 1pm-3pm.

CHRISTIAN LEADERS’ MONTHLY MESSAGE

BY DR. SCOTT PARKES Lay Minister, North-East Tasmania Uniting Church.

GOODNESS ME, we do live in tough times.

We can so easily become overwhelmed with the amount of unkindness, division and suffering in our world. What can one person do to help?

I remember feeling exactly that when working as a doctor in West Africa in an Ebola Treatment Unit.

So many were sick and dying, and there was often little we could do. It was at such a time when my wise and wonderful daughter “Skyped” me.

I didn’t want to burden her with my “angst”, but in the end I couldn’t help myself.

After listening to my miseries, she replied: “Dad, it’s just like at home. You’re helping the world one life at a time. It’s all you can do.”.

And, of course, she was right.

There may be such turmoil in the world, but as Gandalf remarked in The Lord of the Rings:

“Some believe it is only great power that can hold evil in check, but that is not what I’ve found. I have found it is the small every day deeds by ordinary folk that keeps the darkness at bay”.

Bike park budget blow out

A BUDGET blow-out has led to a drastic scaling down of Scottsdale’s Bike Park with community feedback now being sought on a staged concept for the project at Northeast Park.

The original plan to build a jump track has been scuttled for the time being, with a tripling in construction costs leading Dorset Council to instead progress with a “skill development area”.

Council would then apply for more funding to complete the jump/pump track at a later stage.

It’s another delay for the project which fi rst gathered momentum in 2019 after a petition led by a passionate group of local families. At that stage a budget of $80,000 to $100,000 was tentatively established but costings are now closer to $300,000.

“Unfortunately the costings for the jumps track have come in at way over the current budget so we have been busy

rethinking our approach and have come up with a Plan B.....(which is to) construct the skills development area fi rst and apply for additional funding to complete the jump/ pump track at a later stage,” the council said.

“There is funding we can apply for in late September. This will allow us to commence the overall Bike Park project and we can chat further on what the main park looks like and whether pump and/or jump is the way forward.”

Scottsdale mother Rachelle Fish said many residents were excited to see a bike park fi nally progress and would support any type of development activity aimed at our youth.

But the chosen location is still an issue.

“It would also be great if parents felt their kids were going to be able to access local activities safely especially as they explore more independence. This is why I feel a

Vandals strike golf club again

central location is more fitting and would be better supported,” she said.

“I feel the Northeast Park location misses our local children's needs. They need something central where families can leave from their homes in Scottsdale and go for a casual ride, walk with pram, the dog, balance bikes, mountain bikes, catch up with their mates and enjoy a ride.

“I feel having to either ride up and down Ringarooma Road and cross the highway, ride the 3 km return trip on the rail trail or load the car with bikes and drive makes it less accessible and user friendly for our local kids, especially those of primary age.

“The barriers to the rail corridor area haven't been outlined, and I wonder if this area could be explored further for future development opportunities.”

Council said there were a number of sites looked at, including the Recreation Ground and the Rail Corridor.

“For a number of reasons Northeast Park was the only viable option,” Council said.

“Underground infrastructure at the Rec Ground was a major issue and site size stifled design options and scope considerably despite being the more central location.

“The stringent Rail Corridor activity restrictions ruled that one out, leaving Northeast Park as the option of choice.

“With the park infrastructure (toilets, showers, water, BBQs etc) and parking already in place and the land availability, the scope was opened up to the potential to design and construct a really unique bike park that would be a major drawcard for residents … and for visitors to stay and play a while longer at the camping area.”

Feedback to the council about the staged approach is due by 3pm on Wednesday, September 6.

Bridport shed fire: accidental

A FIRE at Sandy Points Rd in Bridport that destroyed a shed has been deemed accidental, but the incident could have been much worse had adjoining fuel bowsers exploded.

Bridport Fire Brigade chief Matt Hartley said crews from Bridport and Scottsdale were called to a structure fi re at Clovelly Dairy at 4.25am last Thursday.

“On arrival brigades found a maintenance workshop and a 4x4 vehicle fully engulfed by fi re,” Mr Hartley said.

“Brigades worked quickly to extinguish the fi re and make the area safe.”

Mr Hartley said CCTV showed that the fi rst sign of ignition was at 11.55pm Wednesday, starting in the 4x4 buggy next to the maintenance shed.

bowsers.

“It burnt the fuel bowsers’ hoses and paint off the reservoirs, but they didn’t explode thankfully,” Mr Hartley said.

THOUSANDS OF dollars damage has been caused at the Bridport Golf Club with volunteers furious about the latest attack on the course.

President Kevin Russell said the club was fed up with the behaviour of hoons, who had driven onto the 11th fairway on Monday night, causing significant damage to the area.

Mr Russell said the action would prevent up to 30 people playing croquet on the site this week and into the future as repairs took place.

“They’ve completely wrecked it. If you added up all the volunteer hours it will take to fi x it, you are looking at thousands of

dollars,” Mr Russell said.

“It’s very disappointing and very demoralising for the volunteers who work so hard to make the club what it is.”

Police are investigating with CCTV being looked at.

Mr Russell said the incident added to a string of problems at the club in recent history.

“We have had six or seven break-ins since Christmas after a couple of major ones last year,” he said.

“The target has been the workshop and the bar area. They’ve taken equipment and tools that we use to maintain the course. It’s getting very frustrating.”

Over four hours, the fi re gradually spread through the shed to the fuel

Fire investigators have determined the blaze as accidental with the most likely cause being vegetation on the 4x4’s engine or exhaust, or an electrical fault.

Spreading Santa’s seasonal joy

THE LIONS Club of Lilydale will continue its jolly tradition of Stuffed Santas, with residents across the region being asked to participate again this year.

The Lions club has asked people in Lilydale, Lalla, Underwood, Karoola, Turners Marsh, Bangor, Tunnel and Lebrina to spread the Christmas cheer by taking part.

Last year there were 50 suits stuffed

and put on display, proving a great talking point and attraction for children across the region. The club said it handed out about 70 suits for the occasion last year and hoped that only those intending to participate asked for a suit this year.

The Lions Club buys the Santa suits to distribute free to the district.

Anyone interested in being involved can contact the club.

• A dairy shed fire at Sandy Points Rd caused significnt damage.

• Another vandalism attack has left Bridport Golf Club President Kevin Russell furious.

Footpath frustrations for Pioneer main st residents

PIONEER RESIDENTS deserve a safe footpath along the main street of the town to improve the safety of residents.

That’s the view of resident Lynette Simpson, who addressed the August Dorset Council meeting and spoke passionately about the issue during public question time.

Gladstone Rd runs through the township and Ms Simpson said the amount of traffic on the road should warrant a better footpath system.

There is a raised gravel footpath along part of the road but there is not a distinct footpath the entire way.

“I’m sick to death of Scottsdale and Bridport’s footpaths and roads, we just want a foot path for mothers to walk their prams and babies on,” she said.

“It’s a main highway we live on guys, it’s not a side back road.

“We might be country but come on…we

waited a long time for water and now I’m on the footpath hunt.”

Commissioner Andrew Wardlaw said he would investigate as part of the Budget process.

“I did drive through Pioneer the week before last and next time I will stop and take a look, I was going through just on dark I must say,” he said.

“Well maybe next time you should stop and look, maybe walk in the dust like mothers, babies, prams and children have to do in our town,” Ms Simpson quipped

Council General Manager John Marik said the next five-year plan for footpaths in the municipality was being developed.

“Well surely it should be the end for Bridport and Scottsdale, they’re getting ripped up and re-laid every 18 months or so, it’s a little bit much when we don’t have anything out our way,” she said.

“We all pay rates - we deserve foot paths.”

Rail trail appeal rejected by TASCAT

THE TASMANIAN Civil and Administrative Tribunal (TASCAT) has approved the Dorset Council’s Rail Trail project.

The TASCAT appeal was lodged by a Launceston resident against Launceston City Council’s decision to approve Dorset’s application for the section between Lilydale and Wyena.

The appeal raised concerns about the crushing of railway ballast and its

possible impact on the water quality of watercourses, saying the approval did not have regard for issues including the potential for erosion, siltation and sedimentation and the natural values of the vegetation and the land.

Dorset Commissioner Andrew Wardlaw welcomed the decision to reject the appeal.

Mr Wardlaw said that when the council received a valid permit from Launceston City Council it would be reviewed and

considered, in conjunction with the permit previously supported by TASCAT for the component of the project in Dorset municipality (from Wyena to Scottsdale).

An appeal had also been lodged for that component in 2021 and was similarly unsuccessful.

“This is another step in this project and will now allow the Council to review the project plan,” Mr Wardlaw said.

“I will work with the General Manager

as he completes a full review of the project plan looking at any issues and risks with this project."

Mr Wardlaw said formal discussion would start with the Minister for Infrastructure regarding the process for removal of the former railway infrastructure from the North-East Corridor.

No dates have been suggested for a work timeframe.

Remembering a fine leader

LOCAL LEADERS have paid tribute to Dorset’s first and only female Mayor, Yvonne Thorne, who died on August 14, aged 90.

The former Councillor has been remembered as a wonderful leader who was dedicated to the region, in particular her home town of Derby.

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Mrs Thorne was a Dorset Councillor from 1993 until she retired from local government service in 2011.

During her 18 years in local government, Mrs Thorne was elected as Mayor from 1999 until 2002.

She was also Deputy Mayor from 1993 to 1999 and again in 2005 until her retirement.

Council General Manager John Marik said she was highly respected by her fellow Councillors and council staff and “was famous with the office ladies for making impressive coffee sponges!”

Former colleague Tania Rattray, MLC, said she learned a great deal about leadership from her mentor.

“She was so involved in the community, she and her (husband) Bill were the driving force behind the famous Derby River Derby. Bill was often the only person who attended AGM’s of council and he was a great support until he passed away a few years ago.

“She absolutely loved Derby and to see how it has grown into the place it is, I think she would be very proud.

“She was a great mentor for women aspiring to be leaders in our community and I was personally on the receiving end of the great support she provided when I was a newly elected councillor.”

North-East Chamber of Commerce President Maria Branch also paid tribute.

“She was Deputy Mayor when I came and I remember her as a well-respected woman, well liked and very community minded. She was a wonderful advocate for the North-East and she will be remembered fondly.”

Mrs Thorne is survived by her children Julie, Shelley and Melanie, and their families

• Residents say a lack of a proper footpath is causing a safety issue at Pioneer.

Forestry industry confident in future

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

requirements around noise which would prevent us from operating longer hours than we currently do,” Mr Jessup said.

“We had priced up a full new sawmill line, but it came back a bit more expensive than we had hoped.

“The Aussie dollar is making imports quite expensive and the company we were working with was going to charge us a steel surcharge of $600,000 US because of the price of steel.

“It was also going to cost $4 million to get power into the site so we are looking at some other alternatives to invest in equipment which may be second hand and less automated than what we were hoping to invest in initially.

“That may mean we need additional employees if we can find them.”

The Branxholm Mill currently employs 32 people.

Mr Jessup said the expansion would also be good for owners of private estates who have often had to send plantations interstate because there hasn’t been enough local milling capacity.

“We would look to buy more private logs which would provide an improved market for those private landowners to sell into Tasmania. That would be good for them because the export market can be quite volatile.”

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associated with the Branxholm Sawmill expansion is expected in the coming months.

Mr Jessup said CMTP’s Ling Siding facility, which employs five people who produce treated pine posts for the agriculture and viticulture industry, also had a bright future.

JCH Harvest General Manager Lauren Carter also said her business was confident in the future of the hardwood industry.

The Scottsdale-based harvest business, which opened in 2018, employs around 20 people with 12 based in the North-East to service three contracts in the region.

“We are really focussed on assessing client and global needs and have seen a need for a pretty robust and innovative process to harvest trees in areas with tougher topography – plantings have evolved and we are seeing trees planted in areas that are more and more challenging in nature compared to on the flat farming areas which is becoming so valuable for traditional farming,” she said.

“The technological advance in equipment and harvest capabilities is exciting and presents the North-East with an array of opportunities for growth. The people of the North-East are innovative and entrepreneurial and sit positioned to ensure the regional nature of the industry benefits the broader community outcomes.”

Ms Carter said the volatility in China didn’t allow for a lot of forward planning but the appetite for fibre remains highespecially as an alternate for plastic and with the country’s ambitious housing plan.

“But I am confident the future looks consistent,” she said.

“We are confident in the way things are managed now and the decisions stakeholders are making based on fluctuations.”

The sentiment was echoed by Nick Steel, the Chief Executive Officer of the Tasmanian Forest Products Association, which last week initiated a National Forestry Day to celebrate the importance of the local industry.

“It’s very much a positive story in the North-East as it’s one of the main areas for plantations in the state in particular on public land, with a swathe of new coupes coming on-line by 2027,” Mr Steel said “It gives the North-East a really good opportunity to transform.”

Mr Steel said he expected community concerns in areas around Blue Derby to continue but he insists the area is being managed sustainably.

“We have to be sustainable otherwise we won’t have an industry,” he said.

Post 2027, two thirds of the public forestry offering managed by Sustainable Timber Tasmania will be plantation-based with the other third coming from native and regrowth forests.

Concerns have been raised by Tasmanian operators following Victoria’s decision to bring forward an end to native timber harvesting in that state’s forests to January 1, 2024.

Some operators have expressed concerns that cashed-up Victorians would bid for contracts that should be awarded to locals.

An STT spokesman said the organisation was not able to comment on contract matters or forward planning at this point in time.

“Time will tell if that happens,” Mr Steel said.

“You can’t stop competition but it’s how we balance buy-local and procurement. We are pushing to maintain and expand and grow with what we have in Tasmania and get security going forward so that

businesses have the confidence to invest,” Mr Steel said.

“We are trying to lock in contracts now so that businesses can plan development post 2027.”

2023 TASMANIAN TIMBER

AWARDS

CH Harvest Finalist in Harvesting Excellence

Hayden Green Finalist in Trainee of the Year

Triple H Contracting Finalist in Workplace Health and Safety Excellence

Award winners will be announced on September 15.

• Forestry is on the up in the North-East according to locals.

• Hayden Green is a finalist in the Trainee of the Year category for the Tasmanian Timber Awards.

Unleashing business success via Chamber workshops

BY SCOTT TIMMINS

IN A region pulsating with the spirit of progress, the North-East Tasmanian Chamber of Commerce (NETCC) stands tall as the driving force behind local business development. As the winds of change sweep across the north, NETCC takes the lead in nurturing enterprises and individuals, propelling them towards unprecedented heights of success. Dedicated to fostering a thriving business community, NETCC is gearing up to roll out a series of workshops customised to the needs of our region. In the weeks to come, a golden opportunity beckons, inviting entrepreneurs, business owners, leaders and individuals to immerse themselves in knowledge, growth, and innovation.

As a Fellow of the Institute of Managers and Leaders and a Certified Human Resources Professional, I have

meticulously crafted three workshops, each strategically addressing the unique demands of local businesses.

Drawing from over three decades of research, the emphasis is that the key to prosperous businesses lies in nurturing the growth of your most valuable asset: your people.

Business owners and leaders are realising that investing in their teams is not just an option, but an imperative.

These workshops - Strategic Leadership, Emerging Leaders, and Exceptional Customer Service - are not confined to managerial echelons alone. They hold immense value for every member of an organisation, from the seasoned leader to the budding talent.

From Wednesday, September 6 to the end of November, the NETCC's workshops will unfold, a transformative journey encompassing skill enhancement, leadership acumen, and unparalleled customer engagement strategies.

For the uninitiated, a nominal fee of $100 per person opens doors not only to the workshops but also secures membership in the NETCC community, providing access to future workshops at members' rates, entry to exclusive NETCC events and connections with fellow regional business leaders.

For those already part of the NETCC fold, these workshops stand as a testament to the organisation's commitment to its members' growth.

Existing members can seize this golden opportunity without any financial outlay, further cementing the symbiotic relationship between NETCC and its vibrant community.

For more details see the NETCC's Events Page - https://qrco.de/beHsGa

Prosperity. Innovation. Collaboration.

Are you an entrepreneur, business owner, leader or individual wanting to harness these qualities?

If so, don’t miss out on the upcoming North-East Chamber of Commerce workshop program.

Starts September 6.

Scottsdale businesses to close early

HISTORY REMEMBERED

FOR A long time shops and other businesses were allowed to open whenever they wanted to, and their employees had little say in their working hours and other conditions.

While some unions were formed in Australia as early as the 1820s, shopworkers were slow to achieve many benefits.

Scottsdale businesses adopted the idea of early closing in the 1890s, mainly through a voluntary Wednesday half-day holiday, but on the other days of the working week there was little good news for the workers.

Prior to the First World War there was renewed agitation for shop opening hours to be limited, and in Tasmania there was a push for an Early Closing Bill.

In 1902 all businesses in Scottsdale agreed to close at 9pm each day in the winter months, and 8.30pm in the summer months.

However, it was noted that the train from Launceston, which brought the day’s mail, did not arrive in Scottsdale until 7.45pm.

Local farmers were known to come into town to collect their mail in the evenings, and often wanted to then do their shopping so the shops needed to remain open!

The 8.30pm closing concept lasted only two months. Not all shop keepers abided by the ‘rules’ - those that closed early lost business, so they withdrew from the scheme, and it collapsed.

In Scottsdale in 1903 a group of locals met in the Mechanics’ Institute Hall to consider ‘the advisability of establishing an early closing movement’.

The meeting had been convened by Mr A. W. (Walter) Biggs, a local store owner, who suggested that early closing could benefit both the employers and the public.

He said that he considered it ’slavery’ to ask employees to work from 8am until 9pm.

Walter Biggs claimed that he had talked with all of the business people in Scottsdale

and, with one exception, they had agreed to abide by any opening hours set by the meeting. He then proposed that businesses close at 8pm on all days except Saturdays. Three years later the business people of Scottsdale were still debating the issue, but the suggestion now was for a 6pm close each day except Wednesdays, when an early close of 1pm was proposed, and Saturdays.

A Scottsdale Early Closing Association was formed and on the first half-day Wednesday holiday there was a procession of businesspeople through the town and a sports carnival arranged to celebrate the shorter working day.

An Early Closing Act was finally passed by the Tasmanian Parliament in 1912. In the years to follow a new debate arose, over the early closing of liquor sales in hotels. The North-Eastern Advertiser is working with the Dorset Tasmania History Society to publish historical articles so that our history, in stories and images, is not lost.

• Walter Biggs.

• Branxholm’s Scott Timmins is preparing to facilitate a number of North-East Chamber of Commerce workshops to help build a thriving business community.

Resilience project receives national funding boost

A ST HELENS program to help young women has received almost $20,000 in funding from the Foundation for Rural Regional Renewal. Highways and Byways Ltd and Free2bGirls have received funding of $19,998 for the development and implementation of a new program called Free2Fly in 2024.

The program will match trained mentors with young women aged 17-25, providing support during significant life transitions.

Free2Fly will help young women to address issues of disengagement with education and employment, mental health concerns, substance abuse, family and social relationships, or the challenges of young motherhood.

FRRR, in partnership with CCI Giving, awarded $250,000 to 17 community groups for local mental health initiatives across the country and the St Helens project was the only Tasmanian recipient.

Scottsdale Symphony

THE TASMANIAN Symphony of Orchestra has set its sights on Scottsdale, with a fourpiece ensemble to make its mark at the Mechanics’ Insitute Hall later this month.

The Overland Ensemble, featuring David Robins and Pius Choi on trombone, Mitchell Nissen on bass trombone and Rachel Kelly on tuba, will bring an enticing mix of original music for brass and arrangements tailor-made for a brass quartet.

Rossini’s madcap Overture to The Barber Seville will get the concert off to a breezy start and Gershwin’s A Portrait – which might better be described as Gershwin’s Greatest Hits – will bring proceedings to a jazzy close.

In between, audiences are promised the sultry swing of Steven Verhelst’s Angel’s Tango, three songs by Debussy and original music by the supremely talented Tim Jones, a living legend of the Tasmanian brass world.

The event will be held on Sunday, September 24, at 1pm.

Tickets via the TSO cost $15 for children under 16, students cost $19, concession are $30 and adult tickets are priced at $40.

New strokes for swim centre future

IMPROVED WATER safety and a comprehensive swim school set-up are in the sights of Scottsdale’s new Aquatic Centre Manager.

Dorset Council has appointed Springfield resident Jane Kilburn into the role ahead of the summer season.

Jane has a passion for swimming and water safety having spent many years living aboard a boat with her family, sailing, fishing, snorkelling, paddling, diving and kite boarding.

She has coached the Scottsdale Swimming club for the last two summer seasons and recently competed in the Tasmanian Masters’ Championships.

Kilburn said her focus this season would be to improve water safety education at the aquatic centre, promote positive health outcomes by expanding the amount of water activities available and grow a comprehensive swimming school.

“It’s a wonderful facility and I want to build on community engagement to ensure offerings at the aquatic centre are meeting the key needs of the community,” she said.

Council General Manager John Marik said the role had been elevated from a coordinator role to a manager role, which would be responsible for both operational oversight and driving the strategic direction for the aquatic centre.

“We’ve received some really valuable feedback from the community over the past two seasons and we’re looking forward to having Jane on board to implement some of that feedback and maximise the facility for the benefit of the community,” Mr Marik said.

One of Kilburn’s fi rst jobs will be to recruit a team to help her at the pool, including lifeguards, swimming instructors and water aerobics teachers.

She said council was prepared to invest in all necessary training, with roles to be advertised soon.

“I can't wait to jump in and help the community use this incredible facility,” she said.

The centre is due to reopen in early November.

Bridport book the night

BRIDPORT PRIMARY School held a night performance for its families and school community last week to showcase the talents of children and celebrate Book Week.

Principal Mrs Carol Stingel said: “Our students ‘booked’ up a storm at our recent ‘Book the Night’ Performance which saw students perform amazingly to entertain the audience and to help engage students with books”.

• New strokes for swim centre - Jane Kilburn has been announced as the new facility manager.

• Students perform at Bridport's Book Week spectacular.

James Scott Wing

50 Year Reunion

Saturday, October 21

At Barnbougle Dunes

11.30 for a

12 noon start.

All previous employees welcome.

RSVP October 7 to Chris Wootton 0488 017 835

SMITH Stella May (nee

Harvey)

25.6.1930 - 18.8.2023

In her 94th year.

Dearly loved daughter of Arthur and Ruby Harvey (both dec.).

Loving sister to Melvie, Fay, Clarence, Frank(dec.), Helen, Lloyd(dec.), and Pamela.

Loving wife of Bill(dec.). Loved mother of Rodney, Geoff rey, Murray, Cynthia and Debra. A loving grandmother and great grandmother.

PUBLIC NOTICES

THANK YOU!

I wish to thank my wonderful Family, Grandchildren and Friends for attending my 90th birthday celebrations held at the Bridport Golf Club. Everything was just perfect, the venue, the cards, flowers and gifts. A special mention to the beautiful great-great grandchildren Pia and Avery who blew out the candles on the birthday cake.

MEMORIAL SERVICE

SMITH Stella May (nee Harvey)

Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend the memorial service for Stella May Smith to be held at the C.T. Finney Centre, 34 Nunamina Avenue, Kings Meadows on Friday, 1st September 2023 commencing at 12:30p.m.

TIMPERON Robert Sydney

Family and friends are warmly invited to attend a celebration of Rob’s life. Saturday September 2 at 2pm, the Bridport Bunker Club. Donations to Stroke Foundation may be made at the venue.

Lietinna Hall Country Market

Sunday September 3 - 9am till 1pm

the CWA Bridport Branch

BRIDPORT VILLAGE NICHE MARKET

SATURDAY 2nd September 2023

9:30am – 1:00pm

Over 30 stalls offering home grown produce, handmade merchandise, winter woollies, clothing, plants, gifts and much more. Sausage sizzle and music. Father’s Day Raffle Bridport Community Hall, Main Street Bridport

Proudly supported by the CWA Bridport Branch

dorset council

Road Closure

Motorists are advised that Nook Road will be closed at Little Forester River Bridge from 7.00a.m to 5.30pm on Monday 4th September 2023 to allow for Bridge Decking replacement. Any inconvenience is regretted.

John Marik, General Manager

it's in the making

GOODYEAR

– Elaine Groves

PUBLIC NOTICES

North East Tasmania Chamber of Commerce Inc.

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

Monday 4th September, 5.30pm, Scottsdale Art Gallery Cafe, Scottsdale

Confirmation of minutes, financial report, election of office bearers, membership fees, auditor.

All welcome. Enquires: Sue on 6352 3436

SM Farnell, Secretary North East Tasmania Chamber of Commerce

Dorset Community Talent Quest

Friday December 1 , Mechanics Hall

AGE GROUPS

12 Under – First Prize $100

13 – Under 18 – First Prize, Keyboard

Open Section – First Prize $100

To Enter Contact Maz Gould 0437 470 625 Jo Kerr 0428 328 510

Draft

POSITIONS VACANT

Branxholm Sawmill/Ling Siding Post Plant O ces

Must have ABN & Public Liability Insurance Flexible hours

Email: linda.singline@cmtp.com.au Phone: 0499580322

We're having a

Come down to Galloways Amcal Pharmacy on Monday 4th September to celebrate our Grand Opening with us. There will be games and prizes to give away!

dorset COUNCIL

Priority Projects Plan 2023-2025

Submissions Invited

The draft Priority Projects Plan (the Plan) has been developed with a coordinated approach to align with local, regional, state and federal plans including Council’s Road, Building and Bridge Asset Management Plans. The Plan covers a two year period and takes a council wide view of needs and opportunities while aligning closely with the four identified Strategic Plan 2023-2032 focus areas.

Council endorsed the draft Plan at the 21 August Council Meeting and invite members of the public to make submissions on any aspect of the draft Plan. Submissions can be made via the following methods and must be received by close of business on Wednesday, 27 September 2023:

Completing our online feedback form on our website: www.dorset.tas.gov.au/news

Sending a written submission to:

Draft Priority Projects Plan Submission

Dorset Council PO Box 21, SCOTTSDALE TAS 7260 or, emailing your submission to gm@dorset.tas.gov.au

The intent for the final Plan is to allow Council and Council Officers to focus funding and advocacy efforts into key projects where a need has been identified by Council and the community. A portion of these projects require funding or extensive advocacy by Council along with other external stakeholders to bring them to fruition. The Plan will be reviewed bi-annually.

Copies of the draft Plan can be downloaded from our website www.dorset.tas.gov.au , collected from the Council Offices, 3 Ellenor Street, Scottsdale, or by calling our friendly customer service team on 03 6352 6500.

JOHN MARIK General Manager

Are you looking for a lifestyle change, to downsize your home or to have more time for fun and your family rather than home maintenance?

Northbourne Park offers you all these benefits along with the opportunity to join an amazing community set amongst beautiful gardens in the heart of Scottsdale close to medical, recreational and retail facilities.

WE HAVE SEVERAL NEW AND REFURBISHED VILLAS READY FOR INSPECTION.

Call Donna on 0456 744 940 to see how becoming a resident of Northbourne Park can transform your life.

www.northbourneparkretirementvillage.com

79 Dickenson Place, Scottsdale

NORTH EASTERN EVENTS CALENDAR 2023

Every Friday

� Purple Frog Art & Craft Group 10:00 – 2.30pm

Scottsdale Men’s Shed

� Launching into Learning Sessions 9:00 - 10:30am

Kinder block, Scottsdale Primary School

� Pre-Kinder sessions 10:30 -11:30am

Kinder block, Scottsdale Primary School

First Friday Each Month

� Free Women's Legal Service

Dorset Community House

� Ladies of Dorset Coffee & Chat

Scottsdale Art Gallery Café

September 9

� Scottsdale Lawn Bowls Club Open Day 9:45am 30 George Street Scottsdale

September 16

� SHS Farm Open Day 12:00pm – 2:00pm

Stronach View Campus, North Scottsdale

September 23

� Fundraising Dance with DJ Jack - 7:30pm

Scottsdale RSL Club

September 23 and 24

� Rail Trail Run and Ride

Scottsdale

September 27

� TWIA Beyond the Farmgate Development Program

Scottsdale Football Club Rooms

October 6

� The Mens Table 6:00pm – 8:30pm

to you by... FEDERAL MEMBER FOR BASS BRIDGET ARCHER MP 100 St John Street, Launceston TAS 7250 6334 7033 bridget.archer.mp@aph.gov.au bridgetarcher.com.au BridgetArcherMP

October 7

� PlantFest - Friends of St Paul’s Springfield

Tasman Highway, Springfield

� Basketball Half-Court Official Opening 4:00pm

Bridport, Foreshore

October 14

� Back to Branxholm

Branxholm Hall

October 26

� Careers Expo

Scottsdale

November 3

� Gladstone Hotel Rodeo

Boobyalla Park

November 11

� Ringarooma School & District Show

Ringarooma Primary School

November 17 + 18

� Scottsdale Show

Scottsdale Recreation Ground

November 26

� Book Launch for Legerwood Days – 2.30pm

Legerwood Hall

December 9

� Wood Chopping & Family Event

Gladstone

January 14

� Show and Shine Car/Bike Show

bridget.archer.mp@aph.gov.au a: 100 St John St, Launceston TAS 7250

Jolly good time for riders at renowned event

Demons progress

MORE THAN 60 riders took part in the North-East Equine Endurance Club’s Jolly Lette Memorial Ride on the weekend after a one year absence.

Club Vice President Megan Jensen said it was a successful event held in perfect conditions at Santarena Park.

There were 62 entries across four events, with a 100 per cent completion rate for the eight riders who took part in the 20km event.

Seven riders took part in the 5km event with 85.71 per cent completion, 14 riders took on the 40km distance with an 82.35 per cent completion while 83.33 per cent of the 30 riders who took on the 80km distance completed the journey successfully.

Ms Jensen said that Dylan Stevens, riding Foley-Jones JJ, was first across the line and successfully passed a final vet inspection to receive the shield as winner of the event. Stevens was also first junior while FoleyJones JJ was also awarded best conditioned horse in the junior division. They completed the 80km course in 4:31:40.

The 16-year-old rode with his mother Carolyn, however unfortunately her horse, Highland View Mustang Sally did not pass the final vet check leaving Dylan to hold the

line honours on his own.

Ms Jensen said Dylan's 2023 endurance season has so far been a huge success.

“He recently travelled to Queensland to compete in the national championships, the Tom Quilty Gold Cup where he placed third junior,” she said.

“He has been offered a horse to ride in the upcoming NSW State Championships and is currently in the top five junior riders is Australia, based on points for his 2023 season. His horse, Foley-Jones JJ was bred by his family.”

Kirsty and Noel Lockhart, riding Archerville Cimarron and Lockleigh Park Silver, a father daughter duo from Lebrina, completed not far behind Dylan and Carolyn. Noel's horse was best conditioned in his weight division.

“We had many happy riders who enjoyed the new tracks, found and marked for the event, and there was a great atmosphere at Santarena Park all weekend,” Ms Jensen said.

“The North East Equine Endurance Club is very grateful to the landowners, sponsors and many volunteers as this event could not have happened without them.

GOLF SCOTTSDALE

TUESDAY, AUGUST 22

Mixed Stableford

Winner: Tony Collins, 34 points

Runner Up: Graeme Booth, 33 points

Longest putt: Tracey Taylor

Men’s longest putt: Craig Styles

Gobblers: Heather Lack, Teresa Hall

Next week: Round 1 Ladies Foursomes, Men

Stableford

SATURDAY, AUGUST 26

STABLEFORD

Day’s Winner: Lorissa Dobson 37 pts

Runner Up: Tas Mundy 35 pts

SPORTS RESULTS

Others: S. Krushka C/B G. Booth 3

3 pts, D. Costello 32 pts,

G. Blackwell 31 pts

Nearest to pin 5/14: D. Casboult Longest Putt:

T. Fletcher

Next Week: Medal Day Stroke and Putting

RINGAROOMA

DAN WALSH TROPHY STROKE

Winner: S Burr, 69 net

R/Up: D Bean 72 net on c/b

Third: I Mountney, 72

Fourth: H Summers, 73

NTP 7/16: H Summers

NTP 9/18: T Harper

Next week: Father’s Day 4bbb draw for partners

LILYDALE WON its first semi-final against Perth on the weekend to book a spot in this Saturday’s NTFA Prelim.

Led by a best on ground performance by Thane Bardenhagen with three goals, the Demons were consistently better over the four quarters to claim the win.

Jai Asbury, playing in his 50th game for the club, marked the milestone with a solid performance.

Lilydale will now face off against St Patrick’s in the Preliminary Final at George Town at 2pm on Saturday.

The reserves weren’t so lucky, going down to Old Launcestonians by 13 points – 10.8 (68) to 8.7 (55).

RESULTS

NTFA Semi-Final

Lilydale 15.7 (107) d Perth 5.3 (33)

Goals: Sonny Whiting 2, Thane Bardenhagen 3, Trent Griggs 3, Daniel Viney 1, Billy Tuckerman 1, Jake Oloughin 2, Mark Walsh 1, Jordan Harris 1, Anthony Viney 1

Best: James Storay, Louis Venn, Jai Asbury, Thane Bardenhagen, Mark Walsh, Jak Hadley

MOORINA

STABLEFORD

Winners: A Youd/K Wagner, 68

R/Up: P Michael/R Apted, 61

Third: S Percey/M Youd, 58

Longest Putt 9/18: K Mullins

Longest Putt 1/10: H Youd

Second shot 2/11: D Rattray

Nearest the pin 3/12: J Balfe

Saturday golf 9.30 for 10

NORTH-EAST INDOOR BOWLS

Ringarooma 38 def Scottsdale 29

J. Dennis 15 def. K. Ginn 14

L. Singline 23 def. M. Chilcott 15

Grand final Ringarooma V. Bridport

• Jai Asbury, playing in his 50th game for Lilydale.

• Allie Bloom on At Dial Range Farida, Kassidy Wickham on Yondover Ridge Zilla, Yasmin Noten on Lockleigh Park Montage of Shadows and Lydia Rigby on Van Dieman Sanity.

• Dylan Stevens, riding Foley-Jones JJ, was first across the line.

• Kirstie and Noel Lockhart.

• Brooke Brown Cordell with Sonia Brown, both from Lebrina.

Devil of a win in hockey grand final

BY LAURA HILL

THE FINAL game that everyone had been waiting for was played on Saturday with Devils and Pythons taking the field in the grand final, to see who would claim the North-East Hockey Association premiership cup.

Both teams hit the ground running, neither team wanting the other to be first on the score board.

Halfway into the first half Crystal Bowerman scored a clean goal into the corner of the net giving Devils the lead into half-time.

Play resumed and it wasn't long before Python's Ben Williams did a powerful hit from just inside the circle levelling the score. With both teams now tied it was once again anyone's game.

Devils’ Deagan Young and Lochie Bowerman worked tirelessly to move the

ball down the field, with Pythons’ Jayden Knight and Heath Hall hot on their heels returning the ball back. Both teams had multiple unsuccessful attempts at goals but it was Devils’ Tiah Simmons who snuck one past Python's defenders to place Devils back in the lead.

Despite many impressive plays up the field by the Python's, it wasn't enough and the fate of the game was sealed when Devils scored once again thanks to Lochlan Bowerman with a clean shot in the final minutes of the game.

Devils finished the game with a solid lead 3-1 securing them as Premiers for the 2023 season.

The season came to a close with 90 different players having taken the field throughout it and 181 goals scored throughout the main rounds.

Best on ground in the grand final went to Devils’ Deagan Young.

AWARDS

Leading goal scorer: Kayden Carins

Best first year: Deagan Young

Most Improved: Bianca Hill

Best Utility: Sam Tomkinson

Best Defence: Mehki Jones

M.V.P.

Rovers: Sam Tomkinson and Ryan

Davenport Pythons: Alan Davenport

Frogs: Nick Hill Devils: Lochlan

Bowerman, Deagan Young and Adam Fisher Sloths: Kerry Kershaw and Damien Wilson

BEST AND FAIREST MALE AND FEMALE

Frogs: Nick Hill and Bianca Hill Rovers: Sam Tomkinson, Faye Smith and Zali

Brown Sloths: David Wilson and Kerry

Kershaw Pythons: Jayden Knight and Narelle Genge Devils: Deagan Young and Tiah Simmons Association Male and Female: Deagan Young and Kerry Kershaw

Netball finals action heating up

ALL SIX affiliated clubs involved in the North-East Netball Association have teams playing in the finals series, starting Wednesday night.

Wednesday August 30 – Second Semi

Final (Qualifying)

12/Under Mixed – 4:30 pm, Scottsdale vs Bridport White. 16/Under Mixed – 5:30

pm, Bridport vs Central Swifts Blue. B-Grade – 6:45 pm, Derby vs Central Swifts Blue. A-Grade – 8:00 pm, Derby vs Bridport

Saturday September 2 – First Semi

Final (Elimination)

12/U Mixed – 11:00 am, Bridport Blue vs Ringarooma. 16/U Mixed – 12:15 pm,

Central Swifts Red vs Scottsdale. B-Grade – 3:00 pm, Central Swifts Red vs Bridport Blue. A-Grade – 4:30 pm, Central Swifts vs Winnaleah.

Saturday C-Grade (Prelim Final)

Central Swifts vs Scottsdale - 1:45 pm. Winner to play Bridport in the Grand Final on Saturday, September 9.

• Deagan Young clears the ball out of Devils’ defence stopping Pythons' Ben Williams.

• Devils, undefeated 2023 Champions.

• Ange and Phil Knight, in the purple theme of the Pythons.

• Andrew Hill, Sally Kershaw and Paula McKinnon.

• Viv Harper and Oliver McClennan as Harley Quinn and the Joker.

• Rosie Davenport and Drew Brown.

• Scottsdale's Under 16 boys went through the season undefeated but they took until the final quarter before overtaking Longford to win the NTJFA grand final in perfect conditions at York Park.

BY PETER FISH

SCOTTSDALE SUPPORTERS came to the home of football in big numbers but the young Magpies struggled early and the momentum was with Longford, who benefitted from a couple of cheap goals off the ground to lead by seven points at half time.

Coach Josh Nunn kept faith with his young team and they responded. Wiggins was outstanding across half back and Watts continued to influence the game. The Magpies were coming and at the last change the difference was just a point.

Scottsdale dominated the last term. The bloodied Hadley shook his tag and kicked a couple of goals. Blake Hall, who had been quiet, booted a long goal followed by another accurate snap and the Magpies fi nally took control of the match to run out winners by 14 points.

Going through a season undefeated and winning a premiership puts this team in rare air. Coach Josh Nunn has spent hours

teaching his players and his work has not gone unnoticed.

Club president Cameron Moore, and board member responsible for junior football Ange Hall, both paid compliments to the modest mentor and the club volunteers.

“Josh has been an outstanding coach this season and he has groomed a group of players who will progress through to senior ranks at our club,” Moore said.

Ange Hall paid tribute to the volunteers who were out in force on Sunday.

“We couldn't put all our teams out on the field in the NTJFA competition without the enormous work that our volunteers put in, and we thank them,” Ange Hall said.

It was probably not the Under 16s best performance in the grand fi nal but they overcame setbacks and didn't panic, and eventually the cream rose to the top.

The players and their proud parents returned to the clubrooms to watch the replay after the match, and the premiership pennant and shield are now displayed

proudly at the club.

Meanwhile, the East Coast Swans claimed success in the Under 14 Division 2 competition with a 20 point win over Longford.

Lochlan Brinsmead kicked four goals in the victory. Jaxon Harrison was named runner up in the NTJFA’s best and fairest count and was also named best on ground in the Grand Final.

UNDER 16

NTJFA GRAND FINAL Scottsdale 1.2 3.3 4.3 8.7 (55)

Longford 2.1 4.4 4.4 6.5 (41)

Goals: Tom Hadley 5, Blake Hall 2, Ben Cresswell

Best: Isaac Watts, Will Probert, Tom Hadley, Daniel Wiggins, Callum Fulton, Nick Cresswell

UNDER 14 NTJFA GRAND FINAL East Coast: 2.1 2.3 3.5 6.. (42)

Longford: 1.0 2.2 2.4 3.4 (22)

Goals: Lochlan Brinsmead 4, Byron Woods 2

• The East Coast Swans Under 14 Division 2 premiership team.