Edition 21, Wednesday 12 June, 2024

Can we save the Lyric?

BY RACHEL WILLIAMS

SCOTTSDALE’S ICONIC Lyric Theatre

risks falling into a state of disrepair if something isn’t done to restore the site to its former glory.

That’s the real fear of many in the community as the King St building sits sad and idle, 100 years after hundreds of residents gathered to attend its grand opening.

The building’s front doors were badly damaged in a storm two weeks ago and the top of the doors remain open to the elements.

Dorset Council General Manager John Marik said council officers, along with representatives from the local SES unit, responded to a call out on Friday, May 31, after the storm damage.

“Officers were unable to contact the

owner and undertook repairs to the door frame to secure the site,” Mr Marik said.

The North-Eastern Advertiser has also been unable to contact the owner, Terence Walder, who purchased it from local businessman Kelly Gerke in 2010.

It is understood the property was almost auctioned off by the council for unpaid rates some years ago, but Dorset Commissioner Andrew Wardlaw said council had not had any conversations with the owner in recent times about a possible sale or redevelopment options.

“Council is open to discussions, with community, businesses and/or developers, on improving community amenity and would welcome any opportunity for a discussion with the property owner regarding future use of the Lyric Theatre,” Commissioner Wardlaw said.

The idea of a restoration and repurposing

would be welcomed by many, including Bridport’s Roger McLennan, who worked at the theatre while finishing school in 1959-60.

Mr McLennan said he was a “general dogs’ body” who helped operate the projector when the site was owned by Antonio Armellei, who also owned the next-door service station (now Cellarbrations) with Franco Morganti.

“It was beautiful. The farmers would congregate out the front at intermission between the shorts and the movie and all sorts of wheelings and dealings were done buying and selling cattle,” he said.

“It is very sad and disappointing it has been left to rack and ruin. We don’t have a hall other than the Mechanics’ which has limited capacity, but it would take a lot of money to do something.”

Ally Mercer was involved in the nine-year

Whether you’re a big or small business, or agribusiness our team of lawyers can help negotiate contracts to buy, sell or lease businesses or commercial property and provide advice on any area of business and commercial law.

restoration of the Mechanics’ Hall, which was bought by the James Scott Decorative Arts Society on behalf of the Dorset community, from Council for $1, with the aim of restoring it for community use.

“It’s taken tens of thousands of hours of volunteer labour, two small grants and community support to get it to where it is today,” Ms Mercer said.

“More than $400,000 has been invested in the hall with in-kind support and the small grants. The community now takes pride and ownership of a much-loved historic building.

“Looking at the Lyric, it would be a fantastic project, but so much larger than that of the Mechanics’.

“Getting something going with the Lyric is complex, it would require a very large benefactor to first purchase the building, T STORY CONTINUES ON PAGE 7.

• Door damage caused by storms on May 31 have been semirepaired by the Council.

• Roger McLennan in front of the Lyric Theatre where he worked when it was in its hey-day.

10 Years Ago - June 11, 2014

North East Primary Cross Country

In perfect conditions the East-North-East Cross Country Carnival was held at Mathinna across a difficult course. Seven schools attended the event with with an excellent participation level across the grades. Some outstanding results were Eden SeckoldBamford winning the grade 3 girls, Isaak Newitt winning the grade 3 boys, Jemma Blair winning the grade 5 girls, Bradley Milne winning the grade 5 boys, Macenzie Kerrison winning the grade 6 girls and Bailey Davenport winning the grade 6 boys. Scottsdale Primary won the Division A shield for the 9th time in 10 years while Ringarooma won the Division B title for the first time since 1997.

40 Years Ago – June 7, 1984

Six admitted to society.

Six women were admitted to the Girls Friendly Society at a church parade in the Church Ascention at Lilydale. The G.F.S is a worldwide society within the Anglican Church, and for over 100 years has endeavoured to bring girls and women into the fellowship of the church with a four square programme of worship, study, service and fun. The Rev. Bill Percy, Rector of the Parish of St. George (Invermay) with Lilydale enrolled Susan Arnold and Susan Manning as junior members, admitted Samantha Crooks, Simone Venn, Megan Hughes and Gaylene Farrelly to the membership and commissioned Diana Brockett as a senior cadet leader.

50 Years Ago – June 7, 1974 Scottsdale nurse in bed-making team. Scottsdale nurse Barbara Dilworth was a member of the winning team for the Hobart hospital in a recent bed making marathon. Four teams took part in the 24-hour bed making competition with more than 3500 beds were made. Barbara’s team was declared the winner with a total of 957 beds being made. The idea of the competition was to raise $1,000 for the national student nurse’s convention to be held in Tasmania in 1976. Set up on the front lawns of the hospital with four regular hospital beds, the nurses stripped the beds of their quilts, sheets, blankets and under blankets , folded the bedding at the end of the bed and then made them again from the mattress up.

4G works to impact Lilydale

A SERIES of temporary outages and a reduction in mobile coverage will impact Lilydale residents this week as Telstra conducts upgrades to its mobile base station in the town to improve 4G services.

Works were expected to begin on Tuesday, June 11 and be completed by Sunday, June 16.

Regional General Manager for Telstra, Michael Patterson, said crews need to work during daylight for safety.

“Where possible we will just be switching off the parts of the tower we are working on, leaving the rest

operational,” Mr Patterson said.

“While coverage and capacity will decline during this time, we want to keep the amount of time the site is off air to an absolute minimum.

“There’s never a good time to undertake this sort of work but once it is completed, it will mean better mobile services for local residents.”

Landline services, NBN internet services and mobile coverage from other providers will not be impacted.

Mr Patterson said any calls to Triple Zero from a Telstra mobile when the site

is off air will automatically be diverted to any working mobile network in the area for connection to emergency services.

Telstra has advised residents to activate Wi-Fi calling, a free setting on most popular mobile phones which allows your mobile to use a Wi-Fi network to make and receive mobile calls.

Businesses using EFTPOS terminals have been advised to use fixed line or Wi-Fi/NBN internet connections and contact their bank for details on how to switch between these methods to ensure continuous service.

Flinders Island Airport safety concerns

CALLS FOR urgent action to address safety concerns at Flinders Airport don’t look like being addressed immediately by Canberra, despite council officials saying the critical works needed to occur “yesterday”.

A spokesperson for Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King said the Council would need to apply under the Remote Airstrip upgrade program.

“In the 2024–25 Budget, the Albanese Government announced an extension to

the Remote Airstrip Upgrade Program with an additional $50 million over three years, to improve safety of remote airstrips and accessibility for people with disability.

“The Flinders Island Airport people would need to check eligibility.”

Mayor Rachel Summers, General Manager General Manager Warren Groves and Airport Operations Manager Richard Harley met with Minister King to express their concerns about the airport “running at high risk” antiquated infrastructure.”

The meeting was facilitated by Bass Liberal MHR Bridget Archer, who yesterday said she would now organise a meeting with the Minister for Defence, because the Australian Defence Force needed to utilise the airport often for training and rescue missions.

“The situation is quite critical and while it is disappointing there is not an option for funding immediately, the meeting was worthwhile and we will keep communication open and I will work with the council to help submit an application and follow up with Defence.”

A Mathinna sportsman – Hedley Gunton

HISTORY REMEMBERED

The Gunton family were prominent citizens of Mathinna. Robert Gunton, a blacksmith, died there in 1905. His wife Margaret, a maternity nurse, lived for another 35 years before her death at Mathinna in 1940 at the age of 85. Robert and Margaret had eight children, three daughters and five sons. Their youngest child, Hedley, was born at Mathinna in 1896, so his father died when Hedley was only nine years of age. Mathinna had an active cycling club and in 1914 reported that Hedley Gunton topped the winners list for the year with two firsts and a second out of eleven races held.

In 1915, at the age of 18, Hedley enlisted in the Australian Imperial Force. Wounded more than once while fighting overseas, he returned home in June 1919 to a Mathinna celebration, though a newspaper report suggested that he and a brother (Peter) had both been badly wounded through

June 19

• Bridport Seniors Group Anniversary Lunch

June 20

• The Dorset Men's Table Introduction Session Kendalls Hotel Scottsdale, 6:00pm

June 21

• Lilydale Lantern Walk Memorial Hall, from 5:00pm

• Solstice in the Square

Regent Square George Town, 5:00pm

June 22

their service.

Soon after returning home Hedley Gunton resumed competitive track cycling. In December 1920 he won the Latrobe Cycling Carnival Wheel race. In 1921 he was described as ‘a rider out of the ordinary’. He took a break from the sport while pursuing work opportunities, and getting married in 1923, then reappeared in Scottsdale around 1925, and in 1926 won the State five-mile championship at York Park in Launceston. In 1931, at the aged of 34 and described as a veteran, he won the Burnie Wheel in front of a crowd of 8000 patrons, and then repeated the victory in 1933 to claim his third Burnie Wheel race.

Hedley Gunton continued his interest in the sport of cycling through to the 1940s, while his wife was a major player in the sport of croquet. In 1947 he won the 1947 Northern Tasmanian mixed doubles croquet championship with his wife, Iris, playing left-handed with his right

• Branxholm Market

Branxholm Hall, 10:00am – 2:00pm

• Winter Trivia and Supper Night

Lebrina Memorial Hall

June 28

• Scottsdale Senior Social Club Northbourne Hall, from 1:30pm

July 6

• Bridport Village Market Bridport, 9:30am – 1:00pm

REGULAR EVENTS: Every Monday • PlayConnect+ (School

arm in a sling, apparently due to his 1916 World War One injury, and in 1952 he won the Tasmanian gold croquet medal.

Hedley’s older brother, William, joined the police force and was stationed for many years in Scottsdale. Known locally as ‘Trooper’ or Bill Gunton, William lived to the grand age of 100 years and 8 days, dying in Scottsdale in 1988 and would be remembered by many older locals. Bill is buried in the Ellesmere Cemetery.

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.

NORTH EASTERN EVENTS CALENDAR 2024

July 13

• Christmas in July

Branxholm Hall, 6.00pm

July 26

• Scottsdale Senior Social Club, Soup & Sandwich Northbourne Hall, for 12:00pm

August 3

• Tassie Scallop Fiesta Bridport

August 4

• Bridport Village Market Bridport, 9:30am – 1:00pm

August 30

• Scottsdale Senior Social Club, Northbourne Hall, from 1:30pm

September 7

• Bridport Village Market Bridport, 9:30am – 1:00pm

September 13-15

• NETAC Golden Anniversary Scottsdale Mechanics’ Institute Hall September 27

• Scottsdale Senior Social Club, Northbourne Hall, from 1:30pm

• Hedley Gunton.

Lilydale rock rampage

POLICE CONTINUE to investigate several reports of rocks being thrown from a vehicle at Lilydale last Thursday night, with victims saying they’re lucky to have escaped without physical injury.

The same can’t be said for many vehicles, some of which had their windscreens and headlights smashed by rocks as large as a hand.

Police said no charges were yet to be laid after the incident, which occurred on Golconda Road and Lilydale Road.

Letitia Terry from Lilydale was hit just before 8pm and said it was a scary experience for her and her children.

“I was driving through Lilydale with my kids in the car and heard a bang when we passed a car (we know now the type and colour due to security footage),” she said.

“I knew instantly what had happened due to

Friend Street, George Town raid

TASMANIA POLICE’S Taskforce Saturate arrested three people in George Town on Friday, June 7, charging them with multiple offences committed across the State.

A search was executed at a residence in Friend St and Police arrested three people in connection to recidivist offending.

A 41-year-old man from George Town was charged and bailed to appear before the Court in relation to two stealing offences allegedly committed in Launceston.

A 31-year-old woman and 26-year-old man, both from West Moonah, were also arrested during the raid and were detained to appear in court.

Some of their offences related to alleged stealing in George Town as well as other cities and towns across the State.

Musselroe house fire investigation

FIRE INVESTIGATORS will this week be on the scene of a house fire at 1511 Musselroe Bay Rd, after a blaze tore through the property on Saturday, June 8.

A Tasmanian Fire Service spokesperson said the cause of the fire and the amount of damage sustained was yet to be determined.

TFS crews from Musselroe and Gladstone brigades arrived to find the house “going well” before working to contain and control the fire.

NORTH EAST

a friend of my husband’s being hit with a rock Wednesday night, so a few curse words were said.

“My first thought was to turn and follow but once they got past me they sped off and I wouldn't have caught them.”

Mrs Terry said she stopped at Lilydale Tavern to assess the damage and then collected the rock for evidence before calling Police, who confirmed they had received multiple calls during the evening.

“My six-year-old was so scared to leave the Tavern and come home because she was worried it would happen again,” she said.

“She still asks now driving in daylight if we might get hit with another rock. It was very scary.

“It was so lucky it was in a 50km/h zone. I would hate to see the damage if I got hit with this big rock going faster.”

Another victim was Bec Dystra, who said she was hit around 8.24pm in the 60km/h zone nearing the end of Rocherlea.

“I saw a car approaching… then heard a very loud bang and I felt the glass hitting me,” she said.

“I pulled over and just sat for about a minute processing what had happened. I was shocked.

“I am now left without a car to get to work and have to rely on friends and family and borrow cars.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Launceston Police on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers Tasmania at crimestopperstas.com. au or on 1800 333 000.

Mrs Terry said that more witnesses should come forward if they have dash cam vision between Rocherlea and Lilydale between 7.15pm and 8.45 of a Blue Corolla Hatch.

“I am sure Police would like to see it.”

Opportunity for agritourism learning

OPPORTUNITIES TO expand agritourism across the region will be promoted during a special Agricultured experience taking place in August.

The Journey offers a uniquely curated agricultural and tourism experience where attendees can learn from producers and hear about their passion in the place where they create.

Organisers said the event promises a unique adventure through varied landscapes to enjoy local cuisine and beverages, musical performances, and hear about the inspiration behind the food we eat.

On Saturday, August 3, The Journey will wind its way through the foothills of Mount Arthur to Summerlea Farm, where owners of Liz and Rick Mahnken will explain their farming story and their work to restore the natural habitats for the benefit of the freshwater lobster.

Summerlea Farm specialises in topquality single origin Angus beef. They focus on the way soil, water, native plants and environment shape the flavour of the beef.

A panel session will be facilitated by Dr Sue Kilpatrick, exploring the importance of social connections through farmers in the region, before visitors are offered a taste of produce from the farm.

Mrs Mahnken said she and her husband loved sharing their passion with consumers. They have been farming their North Lilydale property since 2010, with

Mr Mahnken a sixthgeneration farmer in the area.

They quietly launched their agritourism business following an Opening the Gate program in 2022 and are excited by the future of the industry.

“We love bringing people onto the farm and pampering people with an experience to enjoy rural life – to give them an opportunity to step onto a farm, slow down, smell the smells and see the sights,” Mrs Mahnken said.

“We love the idea of being part of a local system and community. It is wonderful that Launceston is a City of Gastronomy and we have a sense of place within that designation.

“There are a lot of small producers doing amazing things and this is a wonderful way to connect and raise awareness of who is making food and tap into the stories behind the products.

“We are a small producer and we love that we have no grand ideas of going interstate.

Covid taught us how important the stories of local food systems are to connect with farmers, growers and producers for food security and to know how your food is produced and where it is coming from.”

After the Summerlea Farm experience, a panel session will be held at Clover Hill with Daniel Crocker (Fork it Farm), Ian White (Clover Hill), and Matthew Evans (Fat Pig Farm and author of Soil, and Milk).

The panel will explore the importance of terroir on the food they produce and what this means for the food we eat.

To book tickets you can visit https:// www.agricultured.com.au/event/thejourney/

GARAGE SALE TRAIL

Bridport to Ringarooma and everywhere

Garage Sale Trail is returning bigger and better than ever in 2024!

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 3

Don’t miss out on your opportunity to take part! Registrations now open – simply phone Jodie Faulkner on 0419 223 031 or email jodie@waterhousere.com.au to book your place on the trail.

• (Pictured, top)Serious damage done to Bec Dykstra’s car; (above) The rock and damage done to Letitia Terry’s car while driving in Lilydale last Thursday before 8pm.

• Liz and Rick Mahnken will open up their farm as part of an Agricultured journey in August.

Funding commitments possible in next budget

MOST OF the Liberal Party’s election promises for small community grants, including projects for the Scottsdale RSL, Rotary and both Scottsdale and Bridport Football Clubs look set to be paid out in the first year of the new government.

A State Government Spokesperson yesterday confirmed the commitments would be delivered in full, subject to the normal scrutiny and approval of both Houses of Parliament as part of the 2024-25 State Budget process.

“The commitments were made in respect of the four-year Government term, however we expect that most of the community funds will be made available to organisations in the first (earliest) budget year,” the spokesperson said.

“While a later Budget is common during election years, it means there will be a few more months before funding can flow to deliver on our election commitments.”

The budget is set for September 12.

The community grants promised ahead of the March election included:

- Scottsdale Football Club, roof top solar panels for energy efficiency, $50,000

- Scottsdale RSL, upgrade the cold room and refrigeration equipment, $60,000

- Scottsdale Military Museum, install

disability access, $70,000

- Scottsdale Rotary Club, replace the Big Thumb sculpture in Scottsdale, $10,000

- Scottsdale Rotary Club, redevelop the former Scottsdale Railway Station, $150,000

- Dorset Council, Upgrade Scottsdale, Winnaleah and Lions Playgrounds, $150,000

- Lilydale Football Club, renovate the Club changerooms, $146,412

- Mechanics' Institute Hall, installation of new lighting, $6,071

- Bridport Football Club, installation of new electronic score board, $60,000

- George Town Junior Soccer Club, install new lighting and security upgrades, $162,235

- Dorset Community Men's Shed, new bench saw equipment to support for larger timber, $12,039

- Flinders Island Council, develop the North East River Camping Masterplan, $150,000.

A spokesperson also confirmed plans were progressing for Bridport’s new fire and ambulance station at Ezzy Park but could not give a date for action to start.

“The State Fire Commission’s Corporate Plan includes a provision of $1.1m to construct a new, larger station across 2024-25 and 2025-26,” the spokesman said.

BOI inquiry “saga” a long way to run

A UNIVERSITY of Tasmania professor says the long-running Board of Inquiry into Dorset Council could yet continue for years, with litigation and appeals likely.

The State Government was presented with the report by the Board on April 30 and has since sent it to the Solicitor General for advice.

A Government spokesman confirmed the Solicitor General was yet to give any feedback and had no further updates to provide.

It’s now more than 10 months since Local Government Minister Nic Street announced the establishment of the Inquiry to investigate “serious allegations of systematic and widespread statutory non-compliance and failings of good governance”.

UTAS Professor David Adams said any outcome could still be a long way off.

“The framing of the terms of reference were so broad the Inquiry could run for years and still not get to the bottom of it all,” Prof. Adams said.

“Whatever happens there will almost certainly be appeals and litigation. This sorry saga has a long way to run.”

Prof Adams said he expected that the Solicitor General had been asked for advice on a range of matters, but especially around the responsibilities, if any, of the Minister to act and what those actions might be.

“There will also be issues about why action was not taken earlier and the extent to which particular individuals or groups of individuals can be claimed to

have been operating outside of the Local Government Act and the consequences of that,” Professor Adams said.

“There will be a lot of legal issues around, for example, claims of misconduct and potential offences which will have to be handled carefully. As will the nature of recommendations that can be made.

“I am confident one of the scenarios they will be trying to understand is for a situation where the Mayor and existing councillors are able to stand again and are re-elected, although I am aware some are not standing again irrespective.”

Mayor Greg Howard and at least two other councillors have stated they will quit their roles regardless of any findings.

Commissioner Andrew Wardlaw has in the past said he expected to be in the role until later this year but could not confirm a timeframe for his tenure.

“As I do not have visibility into the processes being undertaken by the Minister, I am unable to provide guidance on the length of my appointment at this time,” Commissioner Wardlaw said.

“I am committed to fulfilling my duties diligently and effectively for the duration of my tenure."

Commissioner Wardlaw said he was yet to see the report and has been at arms’ length from the Inquiry process, run by Barrister Andrew Walker and Local Government veteran Andrew Paul.

Fiesta fun at launch party

A HAPPY crowd of 300 relived their teenage years at a wharf-side party to launch the 2024 Tassie Scallop Fiesta at Bridport.

Despite the frosty night, revellers crowded the dance floor to bop away to Creedence Clearwater Revival hits performed by tribute band Ramble Tamble.

The show kicked off with young local performers Jade Howard and the band Scattabrain.

That was after the fogged-in Launceston Airport threatened to cancel the main act, who arrived via Hobart just as the party was about to start.

While many of the party goers were local North-East residents at least one of the tables for 10 was taken by visitors from Western Australia and Victoria.

A message from Fiesta's King Murph the First recapped what will be on offer at the

Fiesta on Sunday, August 4 and urged people to buy tickets online to avoid disappointment.

Highlights will include live entertainment, chef demonstrations, masterclasses, the famous scallop pie competition and scallop splitters challenge.

The Fiesta was officially launched on Thursday by Premier Jeremy Rockliff, who said the event was one of the highlights on the winter events calendar.

“Rain, hail or shine, the Fiesta always deliver a fun and exciting event in Bridport,” Premier Rockliff said.

“The Tasmanian Government is pleased to have supported the Scallop Fiesta event, with $60,000 to assist the event delivery from 2022 to 2024.

Negotiations with event organisers for a new funding commitment is now underway, Mr Rockliff said.

SCOTTSDALE COURT REPORT

A WOMAN listed to appear in Scottsdale Magistrates Court on Tuesday, June 11, on 38 different charges had her cases adjourned to Launceston by Magistrate Simon Brown, because she was in custody there.

Samantha Inserra was due to appear in Scottsdale on a number of aggravated burglary, stealing, trespass and breach of bail charges, as well as charges of common assault, destroying property, driving while disqualified, driving a motor vehicle whilst a prescribed illicit drug is present, motor vehicle stealing and exceeding the speed limit.

Some of the cases were set down for facts and sentencing, while the others were listed for mention and plea.

JUNE 11, 2024

She was remanded in custody to appear on July 4 at 9.15am via video link in Launceston.

In other matters in Scottsdale Court, Christian John Dolley pleaded guilty to four counts of failing to comply with prescribed storage of firearms and ammunition requirements.

The court heard the breaches took place in Bridport in October, 2023, and in early 2024, with guns and ammunition left in bedroom cupboards, near a laundry sink and a shed cupboard instead of in the required storage safe.

Dolley also pleaded not guilty to a common assault charge and all matters were adjourned to Launceston on August 6.

Animal cruelty charges against Jamie

Michael Smith were adjourned until July 23.

He was bailed to reappear on three counts of doing an act resulting in the death, deformity of serious disablement of an animal, one count of doing an act resulting in the death of an animal and one count of aggravated cruelty to animals likely to result in death, deformity of serious disablements.

The court heard the matters were in relation to a brush tail possum and occurred at Talawa.

• Ann Maree O'Keefe with Urbana Morton and Jenny Bryan.

• Bass Liberal MHA Rob Fairs with Premier Jeremy Rockliff being shown the skill of scallop splitting by Yoyo Tang at the official launch of the Bridport Scallop Fiesta.

• Leonie Johnston with Christine Beswick.

• Keys Kling, Ian Boyce, Noel Gerke and Terry Brown.

• Yvonne Gerke and Maria Kling.

Little Blue Lake upgrades

WORKS ARE underway on some upgrades at Little Blue Lake by Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service, but agreement has not been reached on possible public amenities for the popular site.

A Department of Natural Resources and Environment Tasmania (NRE Tas) spokesperson said boulder barriers were being installed off Gladstone Road, along with improved signage to “encourage short-term visits of this day use only site”.

“PWS have received notification from Dorset Council about community concerns on facilities and amenities at the site and are currently liaising with Dorset Council on the matter,” the spokesperson said.

“There are toilets and rubbish bins

at nearby locations, and the Little Blue Lake site is not maintained as a long-term stay visitor site.”

General Manager John Marik wrote to them on April 18 with requests for action on the Crown Land at South Mount Cameron and said he has not had an official response.

Farm Feast to return

PREPARATIONS ARE underway for Farm Feast 2024, with an invite out to all farmers, farm workers and their families.

The annual catch-up will be held on Friday, July 5 from 6pmmindnight at 400 Red Hill Rd, Branxholm.

Cost is $15 per person and includes a meal, bus transport and entertainment, with children under 16 free.

An auction and raffle will be held on the night, with a guest speaker from Man Up Tasmania.

For bus bookings - Bridport via Scottsdale phone Burger 0409 172 297 and for Gladstone via Winnaleah phone Pinky 0408 542 466.

RSVP is essential by Monday, July 1 via Cheryl McCartie 0467 532 401, Craig Steel 0409 542 144 or Drew Carter 0428 532 360. BYO chair and blanket.

You are invited to our drop-in session to learn about our project and provide feedback. Drop in anytime to have a chat and enjoy a cuppa with some light refreshments or join us for a BBQ lunch on Saturday.

When: 3:00pm to 6:00pm, Friday 14th June 2024; and 10:00am to 3:00pm, Saturday 15th June 2024

Where: Beechford Hub. Proctor Street Recreation Ground Proctor St (corner of Esplanade St), Beechford, Tasmania 7252

If you can’t attend our session and want more information you can:

Visit www.equis.com.au

Email AUProjects@equis.com

Register https://equis.engagementhub.com.au/bell-bay-wind-farm

We look forward to seeing you

Eddystone Point boat ramp reopens

UPGRADES TO facilities at Eddystone Point were completed in time for the King’s Birthday Long Weekend, giving boaters better access to the water.

Minister for Parks and Environment, Nick Duigan, said it was perfect timing for a long weekend of fishing.

The upgraded boat ramp, including the addition of a walkway, was opened late last week.

“Excitingly, car parking facilities on site have also been upgraded to incorporate significant drainage and traffic flow improvements for both day visitors and boat trailer users,” Mr Duigan said.

“The facility upgrades aim to improve safety and enable easier boat access.

“I know there were some disruptions

while this work took place, however the now completed works provide improved outcomes and access for the community,” Mr Duigan said.

The upgrades are part of the Tasmanian Government’s $1,015,000 North East Parks and Reserves Upgrades project.

A Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service spokesperson said the balance of the funding would be allocated to improving the amenities at two popular campgrounds.

A new toilet will be built at South Croppies Campground and the existing toilet facilities at Dora Point Campground will be upgraded by the end of the year.

Costings and detailed timelines for each project will be confirmed after designs are finalised, they said.

Men’s Table testimony

A SEAT at the Dorset Men’s Table helped turn around the life of Scottsdale’s Rob Skilton.

He’s actively promoting the next entrée session for the group, which meets monthly at Kendall’s Hotel.

After separating from his wife following 39 years of marriage, Mr Skilton said he had no one to talk to. He joined the table after an entrée session late last year and has never looked back.

“The first night I went and came out on a high,” Mr Skilton said.

“I wasn’t in a very good place, but it makes me feel on top of the world when I go.

“I can’t recommend it highly enough.

There is no obligation and it only costs the price of a really good meal at Kendall’s where we meet.

“We all have a chat about our problems because there is really no one else we can talk to. I really look forward to going to the meetings each month.

“Nothing leaves the room and they’re a really good bunch of blokes. We need a few more members though because it would be a shame if it folded through lack of numbers.”

The next introductory session will be held on June 20 at 6pm with details available through The Men’s Table website.

• Eddystone Boat Ramp is back available to the public following an upgrade.

• One of the region's most popular tourist attractions, Little Blue Lake.

Remarkable Lioness record

SCOTTSDALE’S JUNE Stagoll has just notched up her 56th consecutive Scottsdale Lions Club Changeover Dinner.

Mrs Stagoll, 85, has been attending the events since the club was first formed and has continued to attend over the past two decades since the death of her husband, former Scottsdale Lions Club President Wally.

“Wally started with Lions and they formed the club in 1969 and it went from there,” Mrs Stagoll recalled last week.

“Wally was President in 1983-84 and did every other thing except secretary or treasurer roles and you can guess who did a lot of it!

“Ladies weren’t able to be members so we were the Lions Ladies - we had to do the dirty work though!”

Mrs Stagoll has many fond memories assisting the club in the community.

“Our first project would have been the chocolate wheel for the Scottsdale Show – that would be my stab in the dark,” she recalled.

“We used to have a lot of fun and go all over Australia to conventions.

“It was great – the first year they had the Christmas Parade and the streets were absolutely packed.

“My son Allan drove the truck up George St and we were all on the back of the truck and he was honking the air horns. Joyce Johnston did an amazing job as the organiser and we would throw lollies out and pieces of cake. It would be great to have that back again.”

One project that she recalls fondly was the revitalisation of Northeast Park in the 1980s.

Mrs Stagoll’s granddaughter, Melissa Krushka, is now on a mission to restore the area back to its former glory.

Mrs Krushka was inducted into the club late August and has since taken on a Vice President role – the constitution of Lions Clubs International was amended in 1987 to allow for women to become members.

“We have some projects on the go and are looking to put some seats out in front of the

doctor’s surgery so that there are chairs for patients waiting to sit on and we want to do some more at Northeast Park next year,”

Mrs Krushka said.

“It’s nice to get back in and support the community now that my kids are a bit older and I don’t have all the commitments with football, netball and Little Athletics.

“I remember being here in nan’s loungeroom as a kid and nan would have the Lions Christmas Cakes and the Lions Mints and the Christmas stocking they did every year as a raffle, so it is lovely to be involved like she was.”

Mrs Stagoll said she was proud to see a new generation of her family involved in the organisation.

“I’ve warned them not to load too much on her to start with. When it originated there were 40-odd members and now there are only 13 so there is a lot of work to do,”

Mrs Stagoll said.

Mrs Stagoll said she hoped to continue her record attendance run attending the annual event.

• June Stagoll has been at every Scottsdale Lions Club Changeover Dinner since the Club started in 1969, witnessing her granddaughter Melissa Krushka being named a Vice President at the most recent event.

“I hope so! There are two other originals Meg Allanby and Yvonne Edgerton who have attended many dinners along the journey too,” Mrs Stagoll said.

Added Mrs Krushka: “I am definitely very proud – it’s pretty special really.”

Out with old, in with new at Bell

THE DEMOLITION of the former Bell Bay Power Station has started to make way for a $1.4b green hydrogen project at Bell Bay.

Minister for Energy and Renewables, Nick Duigan, said the work would allow ABEL Energy to commence construction of its Bell Bay Powerfuels green hydrogen and methanol project.

Mr Duigan said the demolition was a symbolic milestone in Tasmania’s renewable energy journey, removing the old thermal facility to make way for the future of renewable energy.

“I am pleased that the Bell Bay

Powerfuels Project aims to take advantage of Tasmania’s offerings to produce 300,000 tonnes of renewable, green methanol per year and provide new renewable energy generation in time to support projects of megawatt scale,” Mr Duigan said.

“The Bell Bay Powerfuels Project is the

Bay

most advanced export scale green hydrogen project in Tasmania and it’s an exciting day to see the project progress, demonstrating commitment in Tasmania to our shared renewable energy future.”

The project is scheduled to commence production by 2027.

Can we save the Lyric Theatre?

T CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1.

which two years ago was on the market for $495,000.

“The façade is still as beautiful as it was, but the majesty of the inside has been lost to history. Is it something the community wants to, or could resurrect?”

It’s a conversation worth having according to Mr Gerke, who owned it from early 2002-2010.

“It’s a shame because it is right in the middle of our town. I was actually lucky when the back of the roof blew off in a large storm and I was able to get insurance to re-roof and put new gutters in because they were leaking and undermining the

foundations and then we repainted it to preserve it, but it’s going backwards again,” Mr Gerke said.

“There were so many ideas and it has a lot of potential – we thought about little stalls with local wine and cheese producers like a providore, industrial unit housing where you could fit about eight units inside, we had a meeting with (then MP) Peter Gutwein and David Foster about him having his axeman’s museum there and we pulled out the upstairs stage and some of the flooring to get it ready for Banjo’s Bakery who were going to lease it and then that fell though at the last minute.

“We put some offices in at the back of the building but we sold it during the downturn of the forestry industry in 2010 for about $200,000 when it was very negative here at the time.”

Dorset History Society spokesman Nigel Mercer said the Lyric was hugely popular and influential in the history of the town, holding balls, dances, meetings, concerts as well as showing films.

It was first proposed in 1922 by Mr Tasman Newman and was officially opened on June 7, 1924, presenting “a very fine appearance” and was described at the time as “an outstanding acquisition to the architectural appearance of the street”.

The concrete building was designed with two storeys, a 2.4m staircase leading to the dress circle, a stage measuring 1.5m high, with an opening of 7m and depth of 7.6m and included electric lighting effects “equal to anything in the cities.”

The floor was of Tasmanian oak and the stage was graced by “a beautiful drop screen in blue velvet, with gold trimmings surrounding a central lyre, also in gold”.

“It would be wonderful if you could return it to its former glory like they have at the Star Theatre in Invermay,” Mr McLennan mused.

Grace is a carer for her mum Rita, who has dementia.

With Carer Gateway’s support, Grace was able to access free coaching and counselling and connect with other carers through her local Peer Support Group.

Care2Serve is the local Tassie team connecting Tasmanian carers to Carer Gateway.

If you are a carer and would like help too, contact us. Support is free, inclusive and confidential.

Carer Gateway’s Tasmanian team provided free support and helped us access services.

Grace - Carer

MARKETPLACE

FOR SALE

MORNING Kindling, available at Scottsdale Men’s Shed. Monday, Wednesday and Fridays, 10.00am till 2.00pm. Now also available at Ag Warehouse, Scottsdale, proceeds to Hospital Auxiliary.

(nee Kohl), Sally Maree

6.7.1951 – 6.6.2024

Loving mother of Danny, Leonie (dec), Jamie and their families. Loved by all who knew her.

Family and friends of Sally are warmly invited to attend a graveside service to celebrate her life to be held on Friday, June 14, 2024 at the Pyengana Cemetery commencing at 12 noon. In lieu of flowers donations to the Melwood Unit would be appreciated and can be made on the day.

Science success for Scottsdale High

FOR THE first time in six years, Scottsdale High School has competed in the National Science and Engineering Challenge with a number of students excelling in their events.

Science teacher Robekah McDougall said the school had a small team of only 22 students compared to 32 students from other schools but were able to win two challenges on the day.

Tara Lette, Larni Evans and Thomas Wesley won the Flight Challenge, where they had to build a model glider to be launched using the YOLO Electronic Ejection Technique, with the score based on distance travelled, precision of landing, and accuracy hitting a target.

Hayden Auton and Cody Johnson won the Job Juggle Challenge, where students were asked to solve a series of scheduling problems based on real life scenarios.

Bringing the law to you – free community legal services

LAW WEEK was held in late May, providing members of the public with opportunities to learn about the law and their legal rights.

During the week, lawyers from the Launceston Community Legal Centre (LCLC) were welcomed at Dorset Community House to chat over lunch with community members and share information about free community legal services available in Tasmania.

The LCLC works in partnership with local community centres and neighbourhood houses to provide outreach services where they are most needed. Experienced lawyers provide free and confidential advice and information to community members in the areas of Employment Law, Family Law, Disability Discrimination, General Civil Law and Welfare Rights.

Access to legal help is an essential service that should not be dependent on a person’s geographic location,

or their capacity to afford private legal assistance. Often people are unaware of the free legal help available in their community, so Law Week events are a great opportunity to increase community awareness around everyday legal issues and how to access support.

The LCLC highlighted the significant role Legal Literacy Volunteers play in their communities.

The LCLC’s Legal Literacy Volunteers help people to read, understand and complete all sorts of forms and documents. It is important to understand that they are not lawyers, however they are trained in recognising potential legal problems and can assist with referrals to free legal services. This program has been very successful in building capacity, resilience and confidence within our communities.

Knowing where to start can be the hardest step when you have a

problem. If you think you have a legal need or would like to know more about the Legal Literacy Volunteers program call 03 6334 1577 or visit the website www.lclc.net.au.

Plaque funding for Weymouth

THE WEYMOUTH Progress Association Inc. will receive $600 from the Albanese Government’s Saluting Their Service Commemorative Grants Program.

Funding will be delivered to the group to install a bronze plaque on a rock adjacent to the Weymouth Hall’s flagpole.

More than $1.68 million in funding has been delivered for projects and initiatives that pay tribute to those who have served in our nation’s uniform, to be shared among 91 community organisations nationwide.

The ongoing Saluting their Service Commemorative Grants Program delivers Community Grants up to $10,000 and Major Grants up to $150,000 with the current round open until June 20.

Senator Helen Polley said the community had a strong desire to recognise local veterans.

“This plaque is more than a plaque. This is about recognising service, service to our nation and our North-East community. It creates a sense of pride and commitment we should all strive for,” Senator Polley said.

POLICE ARE investigating a reported burglary and stealing at the Lilydale United Service Station on June 3. It’s alleged a quantity of cash was stolen about 2.50am. Anyone with information is asked to contact Northern Criminal Investigation Division on 131 444 or anonymously through Crime Stoppers Tasmania. Lilydale service station robbed

Gladstone finally on the board

BY DAVID MARSHALL

THE HAPPY Rock lads spent the week in boot camp under the guidance of Ant Middleton and were keen to put on a show up against the RSL Tigers.

In the first Williams danced round the table and wiped the smile off Alcorso’s face. Streak Rainbow shot down Ned Kelly in the next as did Taylor over Kerrison and may well need a trip to Specsavers. Ugg Boots Singline left the gnome Fogarty sitting in a cowpat before Slim Forbes talked Groves out of the win and peg one back for the Tiges.

In the last singles Nolan pickpocketed Cash leaving Gladstone just a win away to secure there first win. Fatigue set in however and the Tigers pounced with wins to Kerro and Cash along with Williams and

Kelly over Rainbow and Taylor, Groves and Nolan.

Scores were level and you could cut the tension with a knife. Alcorso and Singa took on the experienced Fogarty and Forbes but showed their worth to put the Happy Rock team on the winners list for the first time. Gladstone 5 – Tigers 4.

The Dogs were out to chew on a few tail feathers taking on the Magpies on home soil. Captain Farrell was no match for Boags Smith in the first and Blank did likewise taking the sword to Millwood. The two Jarrods clashed in the next and the tall one prevailed leaving the Pies three up.

The Dogs weren’t done however with Mountney towelling up his old sparring partner Shaw. The flyin Brown marched Whitlam Gough down the parliamentary stairs and then Rat Farrell caught the roadrunner leaving Wyllie Smith scratching

his head.

The Pies swung the axe in the doubles dropping the out of form Gough and Smith. Randone came in teaming with the tall one and were too good for the Captain and Nomad.

Boags and Lethal met their match in the next lowering their colours to Millwood and Farrell and it was down to the last once again. Brown and the Rat challenged Blank and Tiles Wagner. The latter had bought extra brylcream with him and in the end proved to slick for the Dogs outfit. Pies 5 – Dogs 4.

The Bulls were at home to the Killers and still on a high after last week’s solid win. Sure shot Marshall came out firing, trimming the bacon of pork Parry as did the joiner Bicanic who herded Cowmare back into the paddock.

Hodgetts outsmarted himself and went

down to Sassy but then the apprentice Smith steadied the ship throwing Wiggins junior overboard. Allan Coker stepped in for the Killers but went too hard earlier in the night and paid the consequences against Raymert.

In the last singles the butcher Dejersey made mincemeat of the new boy Lancaster leaving the Killers with some breathing space. Parry and Lethborg were in a commanding position in their game with Hodgetts and Smith, but the latter played a shot for the ages jamming the eightball out of the pocket and snookered the opposition at the same time.

That was all it took and the Bulls never recovered. Marshall and Hodgetts junior out thought Sassy and Raymert with Bicanic and Dejersey cleaning up the tail downing Wiggins and Lancaster. Killers 7 – Bulls 2.

• Tara Lette and Lorissa Dobson – receiving Scottsdale High School's participation certificate.

• Cody Johnson and Hayden Auton –competing in the Job Juggle Challenge.

EIGHT BALL REPORT

• LCLC Lawyer, Abby Cone and Legal Literacy Volunteer, Sue Farnell.

Magpies planning for future

SINCE SCOTTSDALE was announced as one of the six clubs in the Northern Premier League in 2025, it has copped significant criticism.

But club president David Mullins believes the decision was fair and equitable.

“We put our name forward, met the guidelines, and ticked all the boxes,” he said.

“This new league is not about the present, it’s about the future. Our club has seven junior teams and a women’s team, and those clubs who didn’t qualify for the new league couldn’t meet those specifications.

“We know we have to improve our on-field performances, but let’s not forget that we have 300 registered players from Auskick through to our senior men, and more than 200 financial members, and those numbers make us the biggest sporting organisation in the North-East,”

he added.

Club patron Peter Gutwein has initiated a program aimed at replenishing the senior playing list, and he chaired a recent meeting of club delegates and major employers in the area.

“From the building trades and labourers, through to agriculture, forestry, health, education, recreation and local government, we have work opportunities and we’re looking forward to welcoming footballers and their families into our community,”

Mr Gutwein said.

The club is commencing a recruiting campaign for season 2025 and beyond, seeking players to join the club from Tasmania, Victoria, Queensland and the Northern Territory.

“We’re getting on the front foot now so we can be competitive in the Premier League in 2025,”

David Mullins said.

Building Bridport Surf Club

T CONTINUED FROM BACK PAGE.

Mr Reeve has a long history in the sport, which he says helps build life skills.

He started his journey at Boat Harbour as a seven-year old Nipper, going on to achieve his surf rescue certificate at 14, then Bronze Medallion at 15 before patrolling until the age of 23.

A former state champion, he competed at national titles and represented Boat Harbour at a world title event in Bondi.

“I got interested at a young age for the

competition aspect and to keep fit over summer for football,” Mr Reeve said.

“It’s an invaluable service for the community and it is a nice feeling to give back.

“It’s a great organisation to be in and you meet so many people and form great lifelong friendships.”

The Launceston-based owner of Pirtek started travelling to Bridport each weekend for his children –Cooper, 13, Arli, 11 and Nate, 9

- to take part in Nippers and that led to him buying a shack in the town with wife, Shontelle.

He was named Senior Patrol member of the year at the 2024 AGM.

The club has 183 members – 65 active patrol members, 85-90 youth or nippers, as well as some social and gym members. It now has the fourth biggest membership in the State behind power house clubs Clifton Beach, Carlton Park and Burnie.

rewarded

• Scottsdale’s Taia Lette and Brianna Doohan represented the NTFAW Under 20 team on the weekend.

SCOTTSDALE FOOTBALL Club’s Taia Lette and Brianna Doohan represented the NTFAW in the Under 20 match at North Hobart Oval on the weekend.

The Southern girls were too good, winning the day 9.11:65 – 4.6:30, but Lette received the best player for the NTFAW team.

She started the rep game in defence for the first half, with a brief change in the forward line before getting her first ever a go as a midfielder, taking some good pack marks, and recording a solid number of kicks handballs and tackles around the ground.

Doohan had a good game in defence with some strong intercept marking and tackles.

SPORTS RESULTS

BRIDPORT GOLF CLUB

PIERCE PIVOT AND LINEAR IRRIGATORS

JUNE 5 MONTHLY TROPHY

Winner: Raylene Taylor 68, R/Up: Trish Nichol 74, Karlene Cuthbertson 75. Putts: Raylene Taylor 24. Ladies NTP 1/10 HC(31-56): Breeze Ebbelaar. Ladies NTP 6/15 HC (0- 30): Raylene Taylor. Longest Putt OTF: Linda Noonan. Men's Stableford Winner: David Bird 41. R/Up: John Wadley 35. NTP 2/11 3rd shot: Peter Claridge. Croquet Long shot: Margaret Smith. Long shot: Sandra Bond. Draw: Andrew Smith.

SATURDAY, JUNE 8 STABLEFORD

Women: Trish Nichol 31. NTP: Trish Nichol. Men: Brad Buchanan 42. R/Up: Jamie Carins 36, Eddie Walker 35. NTP 1st: Brad Buchanan, 2nd Mike Lambert. Longest Putt o/fld: Chris Walker. Friday Flappers: Andy Kent 21, Tony LeFevre 20, Curt Nicholls 18.

NORTH EAST VETS GOLF

A Div: S Burr 37 (vis); D Wells 35; C Nicholls 33; B Laird 32 c/b J Wood 33.

B Div: G Blackwell 33 c/b T Fletcher 33

c/b V Rautner 33. C Div: G Gurr 38; C Furguson 33; W Bennett 32. 1st Nine: J Wood 19. 2nd Nine: K Dodge. NTP 1/10: V Rautner. NTP 3/12 B Flowers. NTP 5/15 M Walton. NTP 9/18 LP M Dobson.

Next event - George Town, June 20

RINGAROOMA GOLF

TEXAS STABLEFORD

Winner: S Worker - 44. R/Up: J Carins - 42. 3rd: D Walsh - 41 c/b. 4th: D Bean - 41. NTP 7/ 16: J Carins. NTP 5/14: S Worker.

NE INDOOR BOWLS R ingarooma 46 def Legerwood. L.Singline 25 def M. Austen 16. J. Dennis 21 def B. Jacobs. Bridport 42 def Scottsdale 39. M.Monson 25 def M. Chilcott 16. J. Binns 17 def by K. Ginn 23. Ladder: Ringarooma 31, Legerwood 22, Bridport 20, Scottsdale 6. NORTH EASTERN LADIES DARTS

• Artist impressions of proposed new Bridport Surf Club.

• Eva James, Director Sponsorship with Dale Jessup (Branxholm Sawmill) and Cameron Moore (Moore's Farm Fresh).

• Club Director of Facilities and Maintenance Alex Stevens and Justin Brown from Branxholm Sawmill.

North-East Primary School’s Gala Day

THE SUN was shinning last Tuesday as local primary school students from Bridport, Scottsdale, Ringarooma and Winnaleah descended on Scottsdale’s George Street Recreation Ground to participate in the

first Gala Sports day for 2024. The day was hosted by Scottsdale Primary School and the students had the option to choose between three sports, football, hockey or netball for a day full of friendly round robin games.

• Izaac Fisher and Ollie Ewington in the ruck with Timothy Fisher, Harlow Wilcox, Jaylen Silver and Bai Wagner waiting for the ball to come to ground.

•

•

•

• Charlie Howlett kicking the ball down the field.

• Ciara Hughes looking to block Sithuki Suraweera Arachchige.

• Heidi Cox moving the ball down field towards the goal area.

• Jacob Farrell standing on the mark defends Lewis Moore looking to kick into the forward line.

Lily Day defending Evie Taylor looking to pass off her rebound.

Luka Murfet looking towards her goal as Bethany Worker and Bella Alderson defend.

Oakley Hall shoots for goal.

• Summer Howard passing out of defence with Eleni Natoba keeping a close eye on the ball.

• Tilly Carr looks to pass into attack.

• Ethan Morice kicks the ball forward.

Building Bridport Surf Club

THE BRIDPORT Surf Life Saving Club

has a new President who is looking to quite literally take the club to the next level.

Justin Reeve was voted into the role at the recent AGM, taking over form longserving President Anita Howard.

“I was the VP last season, so it was a natural progression to step into the role after Anita, who had been in the role for seven years,” Mr Reeve said.

“I want to continue the hard work she has done to get the club to where it is and

continue her legacy of what she has achieved.

“My vision moving forward is to make the club a more community and familyoriented club – we need to have closer ties with the organisations like the Bridport Football Cub and Bridport Lions Club to work together.

“I also want to raise the profile of the club in the North-East and build a culture within the club that inspires the younger members coming through to retain them as they move from teenage years into

adulthood.”

Top of his agenda is to build stage two of the surf club’s facilities - a second storey on the clubhouse.

“We had an informal meeting with the Premier at a community get-together last week and one question he asked is ‘when is the next level going up’ and he has a keen interest in the club and he said he would like to see it completed in the next five to 10 years,” Mr Reeve said.

“The club probably is at a point where

it needs to develop. The Premier said he could see the club being like at Noosa and we could better use the facility for community functions and have a better facility for members.

“Plans were put on the back burner because no one has concentrated on it, but the club is at point where we have to start working on it to get it rolling so we will establish a building committee to progress the development.”

T STORY CONTINUES ON PAGE 10.

• New Bridport Surf Life Saving Club President Justin Reeve is looking to take the club literally to the