Edition 11, Wednesday 27 March, 2024

Revved up for fun Rice grass warriors

Counting the cost

BY RACHEL WILLIAMS

BUSINESSES ACROSS the region say they are bearing the brunt of Tuesday’s power outage to fix damage caused by vandals, with some operators losing out on thousands of dollars and many casual workers left without a day’s pay.

While Scottsdale’s business district was spared, others in more remote areas lost power for as long as 10 hours on Tuesday from 7am.

The work had been planned for Monday,

but high winds thwarted attempts, further frustrating business owners struggling to plan for the outage.

CMTP General Manager Tasmania

Dale Jessup and Branxholm IGA owners Allen and Noemie Ha represented just two businesses impacted by the repair works, necessary after a vandal attack on a TasNetworks tower earlier this month.

Mr Jessup said its Ling Siding and Branxholm timber operations were impacted, costing the business significantly.

“We planned for it on Monday and

TasNetworks outage on Tuesday, with CMTP General Manager Tasmania

delayed all our staff coming in until 8am so staff weren’t driving in from all across the North-East only to be told to go home again and then the power stayed on, so we lost an hour of production on Monday and then a full day closure on Tuesday with permanent employees stood down with pay and casuals losing a day’s pay,” Mr Jessup said.

“It’s going to be an extensive cost and obviously we have customers relying on that production, so we will need to make that time up and that might mean overtime

on top of things.

“Trying to plan for one of three days is totally impractical for business and there is no way you can manage it… it is totally ridiculous.”

That sentiment was shared by the local supermarket, with Mr Ha saying the disruption was costly.

“We have two power banks to power one ice cream freezer and another cool room system for milk and meat,” Mr Ha said.

“The frozen products have a limit of four T CONTINUES ON PAGE 2.

• Branxholm businesses are among the dozens across the North-East impacted by the

Dale Jessup and Branxholm IGA owners Allen and Noemie Ha (inset) frustrated by the costly situation.

10 Years Ago – March 26, 2014

RPS World’s Greatest Shave.

The Ringarooma Primary School SRC chose to raise money for the Leukaemia Foundation's World's Greatest Shave. Students involved themselves in a series of fundraising activities with the aim of reaching a target of $300. When that goal was reached, and surpassed, Principal Duncan Walker had to keep his promise of having his head shaved and his beard removed while house captain Jacob Harper reluctantly agreed to have his mullet cut off by hairdresser and parent Rebekah Ranson. They chose to support the Leukaemia Foundation because it helps a lot of people and children and altogether the school raised $503.20.

20 Years Ago – April 7, 2004

Dairy farmers share prize.

Tasmania’s top dairy farm managers are recognised each year through the Impact Dairy Business of the Year Award which is based on farm financial performance together with the management of human and environmental resources. Minister for Primary Industries, Water and Environment, Mr Steve Kons, announced that Alan and Rosie Davenport from Derby, and John and Katrina Sykes from Ringarooma, were the winners of this year’s Award. Mr Kons said “the award provides an opportunity for all dairy farmers to benchmark their businesses and receive feedback on their business performance. Tasmania is at the forefront of quality agriculture nationally and internationally and these awards recognise that quality.”

30 Years Ago – March 31, 1993

Cottage bakery taken over.

BRIDPORT WATERFRONT PROPOSAL

What could Bridport get for $46m besides a pier and channel redevelopment?

I grew up on Bridport’s beaches, running the foreshore, waterskiing in the river, snorkelling around the rocks and from time to time, fishing in the bay. I am now an architect and live in Launceston but regularly visit my parents who are Bridport locals.

I am deeply concerned about the MAST proposal to redevelop the Bridport Foreshore. I have concerns about the process to date and the project aims, which I do not believe effectively benefit the community or environment.

The proposal focuses on large engineering intervention and infrastructure such as (in order of approximate budget percentages); breakwaters (54%), pier (22%), wharf (12.5%) ramp and jetty upgrades (4%) and marina (2%), plus engineering, project management and contingency for the above (8.4%). The project budget does not outline ongoing costs such as maintenance, promotion and management. Are residents

to assume the $46M is an initial investment for construction and that further ratepayer money will be required?

Less than 1% of the proposed budget goes towards new walking tracks and parking areas and I fear, if this proposal succeeds, the aesthetic outcome won’t be dissimilar to the lump of concrete that was dumped in the middle of the old pier boat ramp in 2015.

Furthermore, any major intervention to our coastline is bound to contribute to greater beach erosion.

Instead, a more community-minded investment could be made, resulting in far more holistic outcomes around environment, culture, health and wellbeing, tourism, and place-making.

Some specific alternative ideas:

- upgrade of the children’s playground eg. Riverbend Launceston, $1.7M (1.);

- investment into the BSLSC facilities, rooftop community function space;

- upgrade of village green to better accommodate local festivals;

- an ocean swimming pool;

- regenerative landscape and planting scheme for the foreshore/caravan park;

- upgraded/repositioned beachfront gathering spaces/BBQ facilities;

- integration of art, culture, sculpture and Bridport heritage with new landscaping;

- re-imagine the channel foreshore with a co-use mountain bike and running loop that can be used for school cross-country events and weekly 5km park run; including a pump track area to create a connection to the Derby and St Helens mountain biking culture and better connect the existing foreshore track and great Bridport walking track 10km loop

As a community, I am confident that we can consider elements that enrich our existing assets and create places for gathering and beachfront enjoyment, rather than the proposed development that, in my professional and personal opinion, does not offer the community the best opportunities from such a large investment.

Counting the cost

T CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1. to five hours and if we go beyond that they will be non-resaleable. We will have a heavy stock loss.

“Our stock flow is affected substantially – at least four different trucks have been cancelled and hours of work for casual workers have been lost.”

Mrs Ha said the situation was compounded because they had stocked-up in readiness for a busy Easter rush, before receiving the outage notification from TasNetworks.

Murray and Mary Partridge who have delivered bread for 18 years, have now decided to start making it. They have purchased the Cottage Bakery in Scottsdale from Max and Karen Hall. Murray a qualified bread maker who previously worked at Niekamp’s Bakery many years ago has been to a refresher course where he had the opportunity to operate improved technology and become accustomed to the different ingredients that are now used in bread making. Both looking forward to the challenge of their new business and were pleased with the response of the local people to the news that the Cottage Bakery will continue to be operated by a North-Eastern Family. March

“We considered getting a big generator on the back of a truck but that is not viable, there is a huge cost in that and it is not practical with two dozen cables running though the floor of the shop so it’s a safety hazard for customers.

“Insurance won’t cover it so will need to rely on a tax write off to cover the cost of damaged stock.”

A TasNetworks spokesman said it was routine to set aside multiple ‘option days’

for major outage works, instead of one definite day.

“We have gone all-out to ensure this work can be done in a single day, with a single 10hour outage,” the spokesman said.

“We appreciate local customers’ support and understanding, given the repair outage was made necessary by a reckless act of vandalism.

“Like any network provider, TasNetworks has limited resources and doesn’t usually provide generators to offset outages. The generator installed to power much of Scottsdale is a goodwill addition (not an obligation), at some considerable cost to TasNetworks, to help support the essential services and minimise disruption.”

There is still confusion over compensation. Mr Jessup said he had been told there would be none available, the Ha’s had been told they could receive $100 and TasNetworks said customers may be eligible for automatic payments under TasNetworks’ Power Supply Guarantee.

Pippa

Jensen, Launceston

Thieves target local sporting clubs

POLICE ARE investigating a series of burglaries across both Scottsdale and Weymouth, including the Scottsdale Football Club and Scottsdale Golf Club.

A stolen golf cart has been recovered since the criminal activity took place late on Wednesday night or early Thursday morning.

Thieves targeted the Magpies’ clubrooms, stealing about $2000 worth of alcohol, cash and an I-pad.

Police did not detail what was stolen from Weymouth.

No charges have been laid and anyone with information is urged to contact police on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers.

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• Bridport Village Market

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Investigations continue into boy’s death

POLICE CONTINUE to investigate the circumstances that led to the death of a three-year-old George Town boy in a car crash near Lefroy early last Friday morning.

Acting Inspector Jason Jones said a 24-year-old woman was driving west on Flinders Highway, often referred to as Bridport Rd, when she lost control of a

black Holden Barina and crashed into trees.

Police said a male passer-by stopped and took two children to George Town Hospital a short time after the crash, which occurred around 1.20am on a straight stretch of the road, between Big Hill Road and Dalrymple Road.

The boy died while his sister, aged 4.5, survived and was taken to the Launceston

General Hospital with minor injuries.

The children’s mother was extricated from the car by emergency services and was taken to the LGH with non-life-threatening injuries.

Act. Insp Jones could not confirm if the woman and passer-by were known to one another or what they were doing in the area at the time.

Tractor fun pulls large crowd

CLOSE TO 500 people got a taste of turbocharged tractors at the annual Scottsdale Tractor Pull Challenge at Santarena Park, Jetsonville, on the weekend.

Now in its second year, the event is organised by Scottsdale Rotary with support from the Tasmanian Tractor Pullers Association.

“It was a huge effort for the association to bring this event to the North-East,” Rotary President Guy Jetson said.

“To coordinate the transport of tractors and equipment and run the event for our community relies on the generous support of club sponsors and volunteers and it was great to see our local participants learning about running a tractor pull and helping out with the event.

“A great example of this was young Jack Millwood who drove the track smudge for the entire weekend.”

The event will definitely be an annual fixture and Mr Jetson said the committee was looking at growing it even further with other attractions.

“We really appreciated having the NorthEast Axemen Association join us this year, and we had a blacksmith display,” he said.

Forty competitors, including 12 locals, took part in competition.

Jermaine Williams and Graeme Lette could not be separated on their John Deere tractors having both achieved a ‘full pull’ of the 100m length of competition track, eventually requiring a long chain and the pull-back tractor being added to the sled.

“Williams won the tie break pull, but not without controversy! Graeme’s already talking about next year’s challenge,” Mr Jetson joked.

Other locals claiming trophies in their respective classes included Cameron Willis on his International 50, Lachie Cassidy on a Case 1194, Mardi Kettle on a Massey Ferguson, Wayne Stagg on a mini modified, Mandy McKay on a grey Fergie and the youngest competitor Asha Kumav on a modified ride-on mower.

Tim Hall received an encouragement award for his drive on his V8 Fergie and work on the weekend while Keran Thompson received the inaugural Scottsdale Tractor Pull Challenge Perpetual Trophy for his contribution to the event.

He said Police were investigating whether the children were restrained in car seats or wearing seat belts at the time.

He could not confirm whether the incident was connected to reports of a stolen vehicle.

No charges have yet been laid and anyone with information should contact Police or Crimestoppers.

Council future focus as BOI looms

AN OUTCOME from the Board of Inquiry into Dorset Council is a month away, with uncertainty about who will decide whether any dismissals are made, given Saturday’s election result.

The previous Minister for Local Government, Nic Street, is expected to retain his seat in Franklin, on the back of preferences from Eric Abetz and Jacqui Petrusma.

But, given the Liberals will need to cobble together a government, it could be weeks before a Cabinet and Ministerial portfolios are announced.

It’s not known if Mr Street, who stood down the council and initiated the Board of Inquiry last year, will retain the role.

“My wish is clearly for a new Minister for Local Government but it will be very difficult for a new minister to make a decision so early into the role, given they would have no real knowledge of how the Inquiry came about and the strength of allegations made,” Exiled Mayor Greg Howard said.

The Board of Inquiry was given a two-month extension to hand down its

recommendations by Tuesday, April 30.

It is understood some councillors, staff, former staff and complainants will receive an email from the Board this Thursday, with a request to respond to the Inquiry’s preliminary findings.

The Board will then make recommendations on the council’s future – it can recommend individual councillors or the entire council be dismissed, and whether any charges are warranted.

If some councillors are dismissed, or some resign as at least three have publicly said they would regardless of the outcome, a recount from the last election would be held involving the unsuccessful candidates who wish to again nominate.

There were six unsuccessful candidates from the last election, in October 2022, who were excluded from the count and did not win a role on the council of nine.

If everyone is dismissed, a new election would be held.

Despite the uncertainty of Dorset Council’s elected representatives, staff have

proceeded with finalising a response to the Future of Local Government Review Board.

Council agreed with the final report that recommends a “North-East” Council whereby the Dorset LGA would grow to include rural areas to the west from George Town and to the south-west of the City of Launceston.

General Manager John Marik said council was continuing to push for the inclusion of Weldborough, the Blue Tier mountain bike trails and farms near Ansons Bay from Break O’Day.

“Dorset and BODC have had very highlevel discussions (and) …there was appetite from both sides to investigate the possible LGA boundaries between BODC and Dorset,” Mr Marik said.

Mr Marik said any review would occur when Dorset was in a position to conduct full feasibility modelling and costings.

“This would best align with the Board’s intent for the next phase of voluntary amalgamation discussions in mid-2025,” he said.

Speed limit changes

CHANGES TO the speed limit on Dalrymple Rd and Industry Rd will soon come into effect.

From April 8, the current posted speed limit of 80km/h will be increased to the default rural speed limit of 100km/hr.

The change follows a review of traffic signage arrangements aimed at ensuring smoother and safer journeys for all road users, a George Town Council spokesperson said.

Meanwhile, work on the intersection of Dalrymple and The Glen Rd is behind schedule.

It was meant to start earlier this month but a date for a start has not been given by the George Town Council.

• Edward McDougall having fun at the Scottsdale Tractor Pull last weekend. More photos, page 5.

Rice grass warriors

A SMALL team of volunteers has waged war on an outbreak of rice grass in the Trent Water estuary at Bridport.

Taking advantage of very low tides and using a high strength selective herbicide, the volunteers sprayed the infestations on both sides of the estuary above the Brid River entrance over a two-day operation.

The latest eradication efforts followed the discovery of a number of patches of the weed about a year ago.

Project co-ordinator Louise Brooker said in the interim support had been sought from Natural Resources Management North, permits applied for through the Department of Natural Resources and Environment to use the herbicide on Crown Land and training completed by the

team of sprayers.

“We also appreciated gaining support from landowners like Richard Sattler on the northern side of the estuary and a number of others on the southern side to gain access to the sites through their properties,” Ms Brooker said.

“We were lucky to be offered the expertise of a North-West-based consultant to oversee the project.

“Sue Jennings has been involved in a much bigger eradication program at Smithton and told us we should be able to get control of the situation here,” Ms Brooker said.

Rice grass was introduced to the Tamar River early last century with the aim of stabilising riverbanks, but it quickly

Nunamara Store’s new look

THE FIRE-RAVAGED Nunamara Store is set to reopen in a new format at the start of May.

Owner Wayne Pratt said the white mechanics workshop at the side of the old store was being transformed into a new store, with the petrol station to be rebranded as Astron.

Despite significant challenges with insurance, Mr Pratt said he was determined to bring the business back to life after the December blaze.

“You either get on with it or turn your back and walk away and we are not turn your back and walk away kind of people,” he said.

“The old shed has come up bigger and better than the old shop and looks fantastic.”

Mr Pratt said he was still deciding on the fate of the original building, which has now had the asbestos removed, with discussions still ongoing with insurers about rebuilding costs.

displaced native plants and became regarded as an unwanted weed infesting intertidal areas and impacting fish nurseries.

There were earlier attempts at eradication in Trent Water as early as 2003 with a follow up in 2018.

A vibrant blue dye was used in the spray to show what areas has been treated, but Ms Brooker said while the job had been thorough, members of North East Field Naturalists would remain vigilant in monitoring the estuary for any further outbreaks.

She commended the community effort, singling out the local CWA which paid for the expensive herbicide and even provided some tasty treats for the volunteers involved with the spraying effort.

Beauty blooms in 20 years

LOCAL BEAUTY therapist Candice Walker is next month celebrating two decades of her beauty business in Scottsdale.

Ms Walker took over Looking Great Beauty Salon on April 5, 2004, from Maureen Smith.

“I started beauty school as a 17-year-old and had to do my 100 hours of work experience and I had been here for about four months when Maureen decided to sell and offered it to me,” Ms Walker said.

“I threw myself into it which was really good – it went from being a part-time salon to me now having 400 clients and working 50 hours a week.”

Ms Walker says that over the journey there have been lots of fads come and go, with a return to a more natural look.

“People are back to trying to focus on their natural beauty and enhancing that, so we have said goodbye to a lot of the heavy make-up and big, artificial nails.

“Clients are focussed on using less chemicals and looking at the science behind the skin.

“When I stepped into my beauty course, I

had never been into a beauty salon, whereas now, teenagers are having facials and lashes and people are educating their children about the importance of a good routine.”

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She said more men were also conscious of looking after their skin, especially farmers impacted by the weather.

Ms Walker said she was blessed to work in such a supportive community and looked forward to the next 20 years in business.

“I’m very appreciative of everyone’s support and thankful for allowing me the opportunity to do what I love.”

• Ross Coad, Field Nats President and local volunteer, Steve Wright.

• The Nunamara Store will reopen in a new format in May after fire in December.

• Brett, Chloe and Mandy Singline.

Daryl Smith and Robert Walker.

• Cameron Willis driving his refurbished International along the edge of the track.

• Dennis Dicker and Keran Thompson.

• Hallie Williams, Ava Williams, Isla Brown, Mayah Berwick, Oliver Davis, Lillyanne Davis and Aubree Berwick enjoying the tractor pull. • John Davis, Dave Berwick, Rhett Boscombe-Hill with Riley and Jermaine Williams.

• Kimberley Hall, Ethan Lette, Rhett Coniston and Graeme Hall.

May Shaw's director of facilities Mandy Mckay.

• Sonny and Bill Lade enjoying their time at the tractor pull.

• Wayne Stagg driving his mini modifed Movin on.

• Lachlan Cassidy at the tractor pull held at Santarena Park over the weekend.

Break O’Day

BY MAYOR MICK TUCKER

A number of community projects are reaching significant milestones, with the St Marys Evacuation Centre heading into ‘lock-up stage’.

The indoor mutli use centre will provide a flexible space for community activities such as a community gym, change facilities for the sports ground and will also provide catering facilities.

The project has been split into stages, with some parts of the project, such as decks and pergolas, pending further funding opportunities.

We are hoping to have the building open for use by September 2024.

Meanwhile, the Fingal Community Shed concrete slab has been installed and is ready for the next stage of building ahead of a completion date in August.

The Community Shed will support a community of makers, builders and mechanics in Break O’Day.

Last year a group of youths (supported by YcNCT and Free2B girls) visited councillors to present the importance of youths having a

voice and how Council can support and represent youth in Break O’Day.

Some of these young people, in particular Lily Hetherington, who organised Lily’s International Women’s Day Youth Event, celebrated young voices being heard in the community.

All ages came to support the event and it was a great example of the community coming together to spread a positive message.

Finally, we have been tackling the issue of cat management in the municipality, with two successful community informations sessions, covering topics including companion cats and responsible cat ownership, cats being happy and safe at home while you’re away, desexing and microchips, dealing with cat problems as well as cat management in Tasmania and the law.

We will soon have a display in the lobby over the course of a week with a real cat in it on certain days.

We are also reviewing our dog management policy with the opportunity for community engagement coming up.

George Town

BY MAYOR GREG KEISER

ANZAC Drive Building and Car Park Redevelopment

George Town Council is pleased to announce that significant progress has been made on the major project to revitalise the ANZAC Drive building (Old RSL Building) and car park area. Progress so far has included:

- Renovation of internal spaces: New ceilings, partitions, floorings, fittings, fixtures, wall painting, sewer upgrades, and power wiring have been completed.

- External works: Drainage pipe and pit installation, pavement enhancements, and footpath construction are currently underway and taking shape.

Community Workshops - Township Character Plans

As George Town Council advances with the Township Character Plans, Council invites the community to participate in the upcoming community workshops. These sessions will be held in April and will provide an opportunity for the community to learn about the progress, ask questions, share views, and help prioritise

actions.

The finalised Township Character Plans aim to inject new vibrancy, security, and amenities into the communities. Community input is valuable, and these sessions are a chance for community members to actively contribute to the shaping of the townships. See the George Town Council website for details.

Hillwood Rock Climbing

After being closed to the public for many years, the Hillwood Rock Climbing Area has officially reopened. This popular rock climbing site is arguably the best sport climbing crag in Tasmania, boasting over 150 routes of excellent quality and unrivalled accessibility. The highly featured rock is a change from the vertical dolerite found elsewhere around northern Tasmania, and the cliffs face all directions, making it climbable for most of the year.

The recent addition of rock climbing adds to the abundance of adventures, activities and experiences as part of Wild Tamar, making it a must-see destination for locals and travellers alike.

Users of this newly opened area assume all risks and take full responsibility for their safety.

• Rock clmbing is back at Hillwood.

REGIONAL ROUNDUP

Lilydale District Progress Association

BY PRESIDENT TONY NAAR

THE PROMISES have been made, the votes cast and it seems we have even less certainty than before Saturday’s state election.

In the lead-up to the election, the Lilydale District Progress Association wrote to each of the main parties, asking for commitments on issues affecting our community. While the responses were very positive, we must now wait to see what, if anything, will eventuate. It’s a familiar story to residents of our district and rural Tasmanian districts more generally. While we generate much wealth for Tasmania, it is an ongoing challenge for government at all levels to provide the services and infrastructure to support rural communities.

If the Liberals form government, will any of their 2030 “strong plan” promises be kept, or will they invoke the “majority government” proviso in those promises? If Labor somehow ends up cobbling together a coalition, will they be able to deliver on their promises? Will the Greens and the Jacqui Lambie Network – potential powerbrokers in the new parliament – meet their commitments to support the Lilydale district?

Meanwhile, Lilydale residents of all ages were catered for by local community events in the past ten days. Friday night saw the Valentino Safe Co shop rocking again, this time to popular Launceston band the Bad Dad Orchestra, which played to a full house. The previous Friday, it had been the turn of the younger generation

Flinders Island

BY MAYOR RACHEL SUMMERS

EACH YEAR, Flinders Council provides funding, through their Community Grants Program, for projects that support the Furneaux Island communities through increased community connection, access and participation.

This year sees a total pool of $10,000 available to community groups and individuals to aid in this.

Flinders Council also manages the Gunn Bequest Grant, which is aimed at sporting club for equipment, infrastructure, uniforms etc. This year a total pool of $2,000 is available.

Further details on both of these grant opportunities can be found on Council’s

web page.

Friday March 8 saw our island join in the global celebration of International Women’s Day, embracing the theme of 'Heritage & Horizon'.

The event was beautifully catered by the dedicated women of the Country Women’s Association, who served up a delightful array of cakes, sandwiches, and other tasty treats. We shared in the rich stories of the women who have shaped the past and present of Flinders Island—stories that remind us of our collective strength and resilience. Such community-led events are a testament to the spirit of our island and would not be possible without the generous contributions of our residents.

Everyone is getting excited as Easter is

when the Lilydale Events Group held a free movie night at the Lilydale Bowls Club in conjunction with the club’s regular Friday night barefoot bowls.

Looking ahead, next Monday the Nutopia Cultural Festival returns to Cherry Top Farmstay. Expect food, foraging, games, camping, art, yoga, cake, dress ups, prizes, live music, nuttiness, story-telling, fire circles and all-round good vibes. And for lovers of fine machinery, the Lilydale Tavern will hold its first car show in the car park on Saturday, April 6, from 10am-2pm, followed by music, food and beverages.

Events are a great way to bring the community together and it is wonderful to see the diversity of events taking place right here in Lilydale.

• Flinders Island residents enjoyed International Womens Day celebrations. fast approaching. The Lady Barron Hall Special Committee will once again host an Easter celebration at the Lady Barron Hall on Saturday, March 30, from 8am to 11am.

Dive into the 'Barron Big Breakfast' with delicious egg and bacon sandwiches, pancakes, coffee, tea, and cake, all while supporting the Lady Barron Hall and Recreation Facilities. It's a perfect morning

Cedar Trails opens new outdoor opportunities

FROM HUMBLE beginnings 18 months ago helping one person, Dorset Community Care has grown to now support 52 people across the region to make the most of the age care services available to them.

“It has exceeded all the expectations I had when I started Dorset Community Care in late 2022,” team leader Liz Chatwin said.

“We have grown from just myself providing assistance and care to help our elderly at home, who receive support from My Aged Care, Department of Veterans Affairs and NDIS, to now having a staff of 14 across the disciplines of nursing, support workers, carers, gardeners and maintenance crew.

“We provide personal care, palliative care, domestic assistance, transport to and from appointments, social support, meal preparation and gardening.

“I have found it unbelievable to see how much care

is needed in the community and what people miss out on.”

With that in mind, Cedar Trails has been developed to make dreams become a reality for those NDIS clients.

“We had a few enquiries from NDIS participants wanting to do outdoor activities and so Cedar Trails was born” Liz said.

“We will offer 4WD activities, fishing, fossicking, rock climbing, pet therapy – anything a NDIS participant wants to do, we will try to find a way to help them fulfill their dreams and goals.

“It will be a program tailored for the individual to meet their personal needs and requirements.”

For more details you can contact Dorset Community Care via Liz Chatwin on 0418 576 769 or Dianne Williams on 0448 339 567.

to gather, enjoy and contribute to a great cause.

There will be an Easter Bonnet Parade at 9:45am which may be judged by the Easter Bunny, if the wind calms down enough for him to hop over to the island.

In preparation for this, Council’s Community Development Department are holding an Easter Bonnet making workshop on Thursday March 28 at 3.30pm.

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Chatwin and Dianne Williams from Dorset Community Care are looking forward to the expansion of the business with the launch of Cedar Trails.

• Tameka and Jack Circle at the community barefoot bowls night.

• Clancy Hallet bowls one down at the Lilydale Bowls Club.

GARAGE SALES

SATURDAY March 30, 13 Barnett Crescent, Bridport from 8.30am to 2.30pm, bric-a-brac, white goods, furniture and kitchen ware.

SATURDAY April 6 and Sunday April 7, Salier Place off Button Street, Scottsdale from 9am onwards, variety of things. Contact 0407 985 138

SATURDAY March 30, 13 Edward Street, Bridport from 9am to 4pm.

POSITIONS VACANT

SCHOOL Bus Driver Scottsdale area, 2 hours am and 2 hours pm. Phone 0409 561 495

ANNIVERSARY

DIAMOND WEDDING ANNIVERSARY

Lindsay and Shirley Walters (Simmons)

Married March 28th 1964 at Presbyterian Church, Scottsdale. 60 years and still going strong. Happy Anniversary Mum and Dad. Love Craig, Ashley, Tracey and Elana and families xx

WILLIAMS (nee Benseman)

Anita Maree

Born 4th of June 1964. Left this life in the arms of her family on the 11th of March 2024.

The family of Anita wish to extend their gratitude to family and friends for their support and kindness both during her long illness and her recent passing. We also wish to extend our heartfelt appreciation to staff of the Holman Clinic, Melwood Unit, Alambi, Community and District Nurses, Ambulance Tas, Bridport Fire Brigade, Lilydale Family Health Care, NESM, LGH and Allied Services who's care and dedication made our burden a little easier to bear.

A private service has been held.

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BRIDPORT VILLAGE MARKET Come to the seaside!

Easter Saturday, March 30, 9:30am – 1:00pm

EASTER BASKET RAFFLE. Over 40 stalls for you to browse quality handmade, baked and grown goods, alpaca woollens, handmade jewellery, clothing, plants, bric a brac and much more.

Live music, sausage sizzle and coffee.

Bridport Community Hall, Main Street Bridport and on the Village Green

Proudly supported by the CWA Bridport Branch.

dorset COUNCIL

Draft Playground Facility Audit Report

Dorset Council invites public comment on the draft Playground Facility Audit Report.

The report is now available for viewing on the Councils website www.dorset.tas.gov.au or in hardcopy from the Council Offices until Wednesday 10th April 2024.

Written comments can be made via email –projects@dorset.tas.gov.au or post to Dorset Council, PO Box 21, Scottsdale 7260.

John

Marik, GENERAL MANAGER

it's

in the making

NEW BRIDPORT PIER

Marine and Safety Tasmania (MAST), on behalf of the State Government and with the assistance of the Dorset Council, is assessing options and undertaking stakeholder engagement to identify the preferred location for a new Pier in Bridport.

The Government’s election commitment is to provide Bridport with a recreational Pier that can be used by the local community and visitors to the area.

Information on the potential sites will be available via the MAST and Dorset Council Facebook pages and MAST website from 21st March 2024. An invitation is also extended to the community to attend an information session. The public can visit at any time between 4pm-6pm on the day to discuss the advantages and disadvantages of each identified site with members of the project team.

DATE: Thursday 28th March 2024 TIME: 4.00pm – 6.00pm

LOCATION: Bridport Hall

For those people who are unable to attend the drop-in session, an online survey will be accessible via a QR code or link on the MAST website from Thursday 28th March 2024. PUBLIC NOTICES

dorset

COUNCIL

TEMPORARY ROAD CLOSURE

Westwood

/ Main Street

Bridport Junction

Please be advised that the entrance to Westwood Street, Bridport off Main Street is temporarily closed until 5pm, Thursday 28 March. This junction will be re-opened to motorists for the Easter break holiday period, prior to being closed again on Tuesday, 2 April until further notice.

This closure is to allow works to be undertaken by contractor Pro Dig as part of the upgrade of major stormwater infrastructure in South and Westwood Streets. During these works, there will be disruption to traffic travelling on Main, South and Westwood Streets.

Detours are available via Richard and Bentley Streets, with motorists and pedestrians reminded to follow all traffic management instructions, directional signage and to not enter an active work site during this period.

John Marik, GENERAL MANAGER

it's in the making

EASTER OPENING HOURS

Our office will be closed from 5.00pm Wednesday, March 27 and will reopen 9.00am Monday, April 8. No edition published on April 3 returning April 10.

Wishing all our loyal readers and advertisers a safe and enjoyable Easter period.

AFL stars to flock to the Seagulls

BRIDPORT WILL be a hive of activity in late April, as a number of former AFL stars flock to a fundraiser and All Stars Game at the club.

Simon Black, Adrian Fletcher, Brent Staker, Craig Lambert and Daniel Rich will run out for an All-Star game on Sunday, April 28.

On Saturday, April 27, when the Seagulls take on Evandale in their Round 4 clash, Bridport will boast the recently retired Rich, who played 275 games for the Brisbane Lions.

The reserves will start at 11.30 and the seniors will start at 2.30pm to enable a kid's clinic to be held between the games, with all welcome from 1pm to 2pm.

Secretary/Treasurer Kristy Mountney said following the game on Saturday night there would be a function for the general public to mingle with the guests, with food and drinks available for purchase and live music by Clinton Hutton.

A number of items will be auctioned off including the jumper Rich wears during the game that day, the game ball signed by all

visiting ex-AFL players, a corporate box at the Gabba for 12 people on July 19 and the Football jumpers to be involved in the AllStars game.

“On the Sunday we are hosting an AllStars game including all ex AFL players and the entourage that comes to the club with them and the auction of the jumpers the night before is giving people the once in a life time opportunity to play with and against a number of AFL stars.”

The game will begin at 12:00pm.

The Bridport Team will be captained

Ringarooma flag search underway

THE SEARCH is on to find important pieces of Ringarooma Football Club history ahead of the club being celebrated by the NTFA in the annual Heritage Clah at Pyengana on April 13.

The flags were believed to be stored at the Ringarooma Memorial Hall but have so far have proved elusive to find.

“The Flags and Pennants date back to 1955 and are a valuable part of Club history

and were awarded by the NEFU to record Ringarooma’s numerous premierships over the years,” club stalwart Brendon Thompson said.

“We have only been able to locate one hand-made flag that someone made before the Robins went into recess so it would be really wonderful to find the official NEFU items.

“They were meant to be stored in cases

at the hall and I have seen them displayed over the years at the hall when we have had dinners but now we can’t find them –someone did joke about me having a man’s look so a few others have also had a look for them but we have had no luck.”

If anyone has souvenired the items they can be returned to the Ringarooma History Room or you can contact Thompson on 0419 562 209.

by Adrian Fletcher while the opposition “Sunchip” team will be captained by Black and will also include Staker and Lambert.

“There will be a BBQ available on the day and the bar will be open, so we encourage everyone to come along to what I am sure will be a highly entertaining day.

“All this is made possible by Mark Blackberry who will be taking part in the All-Stars game in the Bridport team. Mark's parents were part of the construction of the football ground in its current location and are life members of the club.”

Walsh crowned Champion of Champions

BY JAN FOSTER

FIRSTLY, ON behalf of the Scottsdale Bowls Club, I would like to congratulate our President Graeme Walsh on winning the Bowls North Men’s Champion of Champions Veterans Singles played last week.

Graeme was able to play in the Veterans Championships because he and other members of the Bowls North Clubs won their own Veterans Club Championship, which allowed them to enter in the best of the best.

We are very proud of you Graeme, well done.

A big thank you to the players who last Thursday wore their Purple attire on the Purple Day and donated to Dementia

SCOTTSDALE GOLF CLUB

TUESDAY, MARCH 19

MIXED STABLEFORD

Winner: Jock Ferguson, 34 . R/Up: Bill Fahey, 33. Others: Kate Gofton 32, Tracey Taylor 32. Women’s

Longest Putt: Kate Gofton. Men’s

Longest Putt: Jock Ferguson.

Gobbler: Tracey

MIXED FOURSOMES

CHAMPIONSHIPS ROUND 2SATURDAY, MATCH 23

Nett Winners - Day’s Event Rob

Shea/Noelene Lette 72 1/2 nett. R/Up Day’s Event. Darrell Wells/

Organisation Tasmania.

Div. 2 headed off to Cressy on Thursday, March 21, but didn’t have the best of days, going down 51 shots to 68.

Skip John Dennis, players Kevin Coates, Tony Giunta and Tony Williams really tried their best but went down 10 to 32 points.

Skip Mike Hansell, Nerina Hansell, Steve McMullan and Neville Lynch battled but lost 14 to 23 and our last team had a great win, with skip Graeme Walsh, Cindy Walsh, Trevor Jessup and Gary Ashby winning 27 to 13; giving Scottsdale 2 points on the day.

Div. 4 played at home and had a fantastic day, defeating Lilydale 72 to shots to 45but because of a technicality, Scottsdale received a full 12 point win on the day. This has keep them sitting in the top 4.

Skip Kath Ginn, Danny Donaldson, Jan

Foster and Helen Pola were up against a strong team going down 16 to 20.

Chris Coates with team Kerrie Donaldson, Pat Bennett and Merv Chilcott won convincingly 35 to 8 and our third team, with skip Ray Charlton, David Ezzy, Marie Charlton and Jeremy Carins, winning 21 to 17.

Only one more game is to be played on Thursday, April 4 to end our 23/24 season.

The divisions that have qualified will be getting ready for finals held a little later on in April. Good luck to all players.

As our Pennant season ends, our Saturday social morning will begin. Those interested in coming along for a good morning of laughter and social interaction are more than welcome.

A commencement time will be advised

Tracey Taylor 73 1/2 nett. Stableford

Event Winner - Cameron Dobson 40 points. R/Up: Christie Ferguson 39, Shaun Krushka 39. NTP 1/10: Rob Kerrison. NTP 5/14: Graeme Booth. Longest Putt: Jasper Krushka.

Women’s Longest Putt: Kate Gofton

MIXED FOURSOMES

CHAMPIONSHIPS 2024

A Grade Winners: Rob Kerrison/ Lorissa Dobson 171 Gross. A Grade

R/Up: Darrell Wells/Tracey Taylor 189 Gross. B Grade Winners: Rob

Shea/Noelene Lette 190 Gross. B

Grade R/Up: Greg Blackwell/Heather

Lack 203 Gross.

BRIDPORT GOLF CLUB

DIVISION 5 PENNANT RESULTS

Bridport defeated Mowbray 4/3. X Nicholls df A Pedeler 2 up. C Walker df L Burston 3/1. E Walker lost to S Chappell 20th hole. N Hayes df N Filce 3/2. D Hyland df A Burston 5/4. J LeFevre lost to D Targett 2/1. G Williams lost to D Knight 2/1.

SATURDAY, MARCH 23

STABLEFORD

Div 1 Winner: Zac McDougall 42. R/ Up: Jamie Carins 40, Nic Betts 36,

Keith Groves 35, David Bird 34. Div

2 Winner: Mike Lambert 39. R/Up: Curt Nicholls 38, Tony Davey 36. Bob Laird 35, Tony LeFevre 35. NTP 3/12: Zac McDougall. NTP 6/16: Nick Sutton. Longest Putt O/Field: Don Etchells. Women's Winner: Helen Davies 35, Karlene Cuthbertson 32, June Atkinson 31, Mandy Hall 31.

NTP: 1/10: June Atkinson. Friday Flappers 9 Hole comp: Curt Nicholls c/b Greg Gurr.

RINGAROOMA GOLF CLUB

STROKE DAY

MOORINA GOLF CLUB

STROKE & PUTTS MARCH 24

Winner: J Balfe, 67. R/Up: M Taylor, 71. L Dobson, 73. Longest Putt 9/18: L Dobson. NTP 7/16: L Dobson.

NORTH EASTERN LADIES DARTS ASSOCIATION MARCH 19

Imps def Warriors 6/3. Highest score D. Rattray 127. Rebels def Devils 5/4. Highest score B. Jones 118.

Winner: A Mountney, 60 nett. R/Up: B Flowers, 65 nett. 3rd: C Fennell, 69 nett. 4th: I Mountney, 71 nett. NTP 5/14: S Burr. NTP 7/16: I Mountney.

• Ringarooma club stalwart Brendon Thompson is searching for the official NEFU Premiership flags and pennants!

at a later date. With luck we will be having Winter Bowls also starting at a date to be confirmed.

• Graeme Walsh won the Veterans Singles Champion of Champions title.

New Scottsdale Football Club Life Members

CAMERON MOORE - Cameron has been involved with the footy club for almost 20 years and his impact has been enormous.

Firstly as a player, then a committeeman, and nine years as President.

As President he singlehandedly drove the concept of women’s football, leading to the formation of a senior women’s team which has won two premierships. And in junior teams and the Auskick program, the number of females continues to grow.

Cameron has overseen major infrastructure improvements including a new roof, specific facilities for female and junior players, a new commercial kitchen, an electronic scoreboard, lights on the secondary oval, and upgraded changerooms.

But perhaps most importantly, Cameron has ensured the financial sustainability of the club. He has spent countless hours at the club, and at working bees and social events he is the first to arrive and the last to leave.

He is widely respected within our club and the NTFA community, and leaves a rich

legacy for the club into the future.

CABEL HALL - Cabel started playing under 18s as a 13/14 year old and hasbeen involved as a player for more than 25 years in under 18s, reserves and seniors.

He has won best and fairest awards in both the club’s under 18 and has played played 88 senior games.

Cabel coached the reserves, juniors (under 14 and under 16 boys and under 17 girls), and was the inaugural senior women’s coach for 5 years. In that time the team made 4 grand finals and won 2 premierships.

For the past two years he has been an assistant coach for the senior men’s team

Cabel has been a board member for 3 years and has helped run and co-ordinate the cattle club for a number of years as well as generally volunteering as needed.

In 2022 Cabel was responsible for producing the Scottsdale Football Club documentary series which proved very popular with supporters and sponsors.

DENHAM HALL - Denham has been a player for more than 25 years in under18s,

reserves and seniors, and has played 150 senior games.

He has coached reserves for a number of years, surely the toughest job at the club, has been an assistant coach for senior women for 4 years and has served

as a board member for 2 years and has always put his hand up for any volunteer roles required at the club.

Denham is a dedicated member of the club and is always ready to help out, and he fits all the qualities of a life member.

Scottsdale under 16s beat arch rivals in thriller

ON SUNDAY four Scottsdale junior teams took on the might of North Launceston, and it was the Under 16 boys, promoted to Division 1 this year, who delivered the highlight of the day with a thrilling five-point win.

In very windy conditions, the boys led at the last change but North had the benefit of the wind in the final term. However, the Scottsdale boys persisted and held out the fast finishing Bombers to record a significant victory.

The Under 14 boys, also in Division 1, had more scoring shots than their opponents, but they just failed to win going down narrowly by four points.

Co-coach Nick Lette suggested his Under 14 girls may have lacked some match fitness in their match. The girls were in the game for the first half but fell away after half time to eventually lose by 25 points.

The Under 12 boys, with many playing their first game on the big ground, battled hard against their bigger and more experienced opponents. The team improved as the game went on and better performances will come with more matches under their belts.

The younger teams all competed in a gala day at UTAS Stadium on Saturday.

RESULTS

Under 12s - North Launceston 12.12-84 d Scottsdale 1.0-6.

Best: Ethan Morice, Thomas Carter, Archie Fish, Harry Moore, Oliver Hall, Ollie Gerke. Goal: Ethan Morice.

Under 14s (Div 1) - North Launceston 4.1-25

d Scottsdale 3.3-21

Best: Declan Knight, Wesley Styles, James Coxen, Fergus Burns, Thomas Smith, Harrison Murphy. Goals: Chase McMahon, Matthew Cresswell, Harrison Murphy.

Under 14 Girls - North Launceston 7.5-47

d Scottsdale 3.4-22

Best: Amelia Carter, Rhianna Lette, Abby Samec, Madden Wood, Matilda Cassidy, Catherine Cox. Goals: Maddy Fletcher, Abby Samec, Eleni Natoba.

Under 16s (Div 1) - Scottsdale 6.11-47

d North Launceston 6.6-42

Best: Deagen Young, Lochlan Bowerman, Jesse Wallner, Andy Heazlewood, Zac Sheehan, Jamieson Nunn. Goals: Jesse Wallner 3, Jack Burke, Andy Heazlewood, Conner Riggall.

• Oliver Hall preparing to kick out of North Launceston’s defence.

• Harry Moore moves in to tackle.

• Connor Jones kicks the ball in under 12.

• Archie Fish in action for the under 12 team.

Footy ’s back! Champion of Champions

Magpies selected for top league

THE SCOTTSDALE Football Club has been chosen to play in the NTFA Premier League in 2025 alongside Launceston, North Launceston, South Launceston, Longford and Deloraine.

The news was announced on Friday at UTAS Stadium and club president David Mullins said it was a relief to be chosen to play in the northern-based top competition.

“We put in a very detailed application last year and went through a fairly rigorous interview a couple of weeks ago,” Mullins said.

Mullins believes the club’s strong junior pathway including the Auskick program, and its very healthy financial situation,

were factors in the decision.

“To be competitive in this new competition we will have to begin recruiting, and that program will commence immediately. But knowing we are now in the big league, puts us in a stronger bargaining situation.”

Past players and supporters have expressed support for the club's efforts to remain in the NTFA’s premier competition, especially the opportunity to play against arch-rivals North Launceston.

NTFA President, Damien Rhind, said it was an exciting time for football in Northern Tasmania on the back of the euphoria of last Monday’s official

launch of the Tasmanian Devils – which ticked over 200,000 foundation members in a week.

“The clubs were selected through a process managed by a five-person selection panel that included two AFL Tasmania staff members, two NTFA Board members and an independent member with an AFL club background and experience in other community sport,” Rhind said.

“There were nine overarching criteria with the following criteria prioritised: committee personnel, financial resource, capacity to field teams in proposed premier competitions, boys’ and girls’ junior pathways, infrastructure and

sustainability.”

Meanwhile, Scottsdale held its season launch on Thursday night, attended by more than 150 players, sponsors and supporters.

Video interviews with former and current AFL players Jay Lockhart, Isaac Chugg and Ryley Sanders proved popular, and the presentation of life memberships to Cameron Moore, Cabel and Denham Hall were greeted by standing ovations.

Jumper presentations to the Under 16 team, and addresses by senior coaches Joel Hayes and Mark Prior were also part of the proceedings.

• Senior coach Joel Hayes, club secretary Peter Fish, and senior women's player Michaela Carins at the announcement.