Sensational spuds on the menu
$200m farm sales in focus
BY RACHEL WILLIAMS
POTENTIAL PURCHASERS are set to step foot on the soils of Tasmania’s largest farm later this week as the marketing campaign to sell Rushy Lagoon heats up.
Managing Director of RMS Advisory Peter Ryan said there had already been a lot of interest in the North-East property, with a price tag of “well in excess of $100 million” expected.
The property hit the market last week and adds to another significant holding being offered, with 10 per cent of Flinders Island’s total arable area also up for grabs. It is expected to fetch around $90m.
Tas Farmers President Ian Sauer said it
was an interesting time for the agriculture landscape.
“Hopefully the buyers develop the farms further to generate more wealth and enterprises for the area,” he said.
“As they say, they are not making any more farmland, so it is a scarce resource.
“I think most people are saying the market is still rising but not at the astronomical level it was.”
The late Allan Pye purchased Rushy Lagoon in 1996 for $8 million.
It is being marketed as a large scale irrigated and dryland cropping/grazing opportunity (21,744ha) with two contiguous properties known as Rushy Lagoon (20,523ha) and East Wyambi (1,221ha).
“There has been solid interest from parties with the capacity and financial gravitas to make the purchase,” Mr Ryan said.
“It is such a diverse property it appeals to a wide range of uses and the market is telling us its value is well in excess of $100 million.
“The majority of interest we have had is from organisations based on the mainland but that is not to say the money will be Australian as there are large overseas fund managers involved in agriculture globally that have representatives on the ground here now.
“We are commencing inspections for interested parties later this week.”
He said the structure of the sale meant
that the smaller East Wyambi property was ideal for a local purchaser.
“There has been some interest from Tasmanian based farmers, so we are heartened by that,” he said.
Mr Ryan said ACEN Australia, which is planning a $4 billion wind farm for the site, had not expressed an interest in purchasing the property as it was planning to lease land for its development.
He would not confirm speculation that Australia’s richest woman Gina Rinehart had shown an interest.
“I am not going to comment on individuals, but Mrs Rinehart has certainly been active on the mainland market this year. We are standing at the mailbox!”
T CONTINUES ON PAGE 5.
• Chef Teresa Scott with some scrumptious fare to be served at the official launch party for the inaugural Scottsdale Spud Fest, along with fellow organisers Carmel Coote, Wayne Harper and Fiona Bennett. T READ MORE, PAGE 3.
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WE SERVE
10 Years Ago – October 8, 2014 Hospital finally gets the NBN.
Four years after the NBN first arrived in Scottsdale, it was finally switched on at the North- East Soldiers Memorial Hospital. Health Minister Michael Ferguson was on hand to see the big difference that the new high-speed service would bring to the hospital. The issue was raised in a story by the NorthEastern Advertiser, that despite the NBN cable being available to the hospital, no attempt had been made to connect it at the time. In response to the story Health Minster Ferguson intervened and after systems were improved to allow for the hospital to take advantage of NBN, the hospital was finally connected. Staff and patients at NESMH would benefit from the improved service as faster broadband offers greater opportunities for outreach clinical services to be delivered via video conferencing.
40 Years Ago – October 4, 1984
French wins North-Eastern championship. Scottsdale golfer Mrs C French won the North-Eastern Golf Association Championship at Scottsdale in 1984. Mrs French had a gross score of 122, which was eight strokes ahead of runner-up Mrs L Jordan of Bridport. There were 57 associations in attendance from Moorina, Ringarooma, Bridport and Scottsdale to compete in the 27-hole event. Conditions were wet, windy and cold with only 21 players who completed the course. B grade went to Mrs N Lette from Scottsdale with a score of 135 from Mrs S Watts and Mrs M Wadley on 139. The C grade winner was J Atkinson with a score of 148 from H Rainbow with 151.
50 Years Ago – October 11, 1974 Trees planted on foreshore
A working bee group planted a number of trees in the barbecue area of the Bridport foreshore. The Rev. and Mrs R Ezzy donated a selection of New Zealand hop bushes, West Australian gums, a flowering gum and wattles. Secretary of the Bridport Development League Mrs L E Homles said the donation was much appreciated and the trees would help to make that section of the foreshore more attractive to residents and especially to visitors.
USEFUL NUMBERS
All Emergency Services (fire, police, ambulance) 000 North Eastern Soldiers Memorial Hospital 6778 8522 Tasmanian Police – non urgent 131 444 Parks and Wildlife Scottsdale Field Centre 6352 6421
How to name your baby
HISTORY REMEMBERED
TODAY THERE are thousands of websites and apps that offer to help you select the name of your new baby. ‘Keep it in the family’ is frequent advice, as well as recognising your heritage, and being careful about possible nicknames. But would you consider naming your new child after a current world event?
The Second Boer War, also known as the South African War, was fought between October 1899 and May 1902. It resulted in over 22,000 deaths on the British side, and 6,000 on the Boers.
Pretoria is a city founded in 1855 as the capital of the South African Republic. The city surrendered to British forces in June, 1900, and was the site of the signing of the peace treaty to end the Second Boer War in May, 1902. A number of Tasmanians, including more than 20 from the Dorset region, fought in the war.
Prior to the war, in preparation for upcoming conflict, the British had built up stores and supplies at the remote town of Mafeking. The Boer South African Republic declared war on October 12, 1899, and immediately began a siege of Mafeking.
Reports of the struggles of Mafeking made frequent news in Tasmania, as locals keenly sought information on the outcomes. By the end of April 1900 there was some hope that reinforcements might bring the siege to an end.
The protracted struggle did end, after 217 days, on May 17, 1900, when the British, under the command of Colonel Robert Baden-Powell, sent a force of 2000 soldiers to relieve the town.
In Derby, miner John Davis and his wife Margaret, who already had a family of five children, greeted twins on April 29, 1900. They named their two girls Mafeking and Pretoria.
Two weeks later Derby miner Alfred Murrell and his wife Annie named their first child Morris James Mafeking Murrell.
On June 6th the Vinen family named their new child Stanley Baden Powell Vinen, while in July at New River the Styles family named their son Robert
Baden Styles. The Brown, Bailey, Foster and Warren families also incorporated Pretoria into their children’s names during the war years.
Between the years 1900 and 1902 more than 250 children were born in Tasmania with ‘Pretoria’ as one of their given names, over 200 with ‘Baden’, and over 60 with the name ‘Mafeking’. Lasting memorials, and an indication of the keen interest that Tasmanians took of world events at that time.
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.
Baby bliss for Bridport couple
SCOTTSDALE SHOW
FRIDAY NIGHT
NORTH EASTERN EVENTS CALENDAR 2024
October 12
• Scottstoberfest North Scottsdale Hall, 1:00pm
• Winnaleah Football Club Reunion Winnaleah Hotel, 5:00pm
October 18
• Flinders Island Show Whitemark
October 19
• Plant Fest, Springfield Friends of St Paul’s Church
October 20
• Big Day Out Lilydale Recreation Ground, 10:00am – 2:00pm
October 25
• 60 Years of Seniors in Scottsdale Northbourne Hall, 1:00pm
October 26
• Ruby’s Marathon for Suicide Prevention Scottsdale Rec Ground, 8:30am
• Spud Fest Launch
Bo & Barn, 6:00pm – 10:00pm
October 27
• Scottsdale Choir Annual Concert Mechanics Hall from 2:30pm
November 2
• Gladstone Hotel Rodeo Gladstone
November 9
• Ringarooma School & District Show Ringarooma
November 15/16
• Scottsdale Show Scottsdale Rec Ground
November 29
• Scottsdale Senior Social Club, Xmas Northbourne Hall, for 11:00am
December 6
• Christmas Market Scottsdale Mechanics Hall
December 7
• Mannalargenna Day Festival – 10th Anniversary Tebrakunna Country, Cape Portland
December 8
• Rotary Dorset Christmas Celebration, Scottsdale Rec Ground, 11:00pm – 2:00pm
December 15
• Lions Club of Bridport Carols by the Sea Bridport Village Green, from 5:00pm
• Christmas Market Mathinna School, Mathinna
Bridport’s Ellen Simons and Nic Betts have welcomed their first child, a daughter named Bella Pearl Betts. She was born on September 30 at 6.10am weighing 3.8kg
Scottsdale Show seeks ambassador
THE NORTH Eastern Agricultural and Pastoral Society Committee has started the search for its next ambassador ahead of Scottsdale Show on November 15 and 16.
Two former ambassadors are highlighting the personal and professional benefits they gained from being involved in the program.
Emily Nixon from Springfield was the 2022 Show Ambassador and went on to be the region’s Rural Ambassador, as did current Show President Alice Hall last year. Both say it was a rewarding experience and are urging people in the community who enjoy volunteering in a rural capacity to apply.
“I was approached by the Scottsdale Show committee off the back of Covid to be their 2022 ambassador and having loved the Show from the moment I could enter the equestrian topsy ring as a child, how could I say no,” Miss Nixon said.
“I had been involved with the Show committee through my positions in Rural Youth for a few years, then sat on the Show executive as a general member.
“I have always been passionate about
agriculture and showcasing all that it has to offer.”
Miss Nixon was then chosen to be the shows Rural Ambassador, which forms part of a national competition - Tasmanian show societies chose one candidate to represent them and compete for the state title, the winner then goes on to contest the national title against candidates from interstate.
She was named runner-up in the Tasmanian part of the competition.
“The judging panel was warm and welcoming and as much as I was there to compete, everyone in the room was there for the common purpose of agriculture and to celebrate what was great about it and how it makes the community thrive.
“The process allowed me to grow personally and professionally by opening new doors both within and outside the Show committee.
“I would recommend Rural Ambassador to anyone who has an agricultural passion and is actively giving back to the community in some way.
“I personally believe the next Rural Ambassador for the North-East doesn’t need to inspire huge change but take what the area already does so well and showcase that.
“The wheel doesn’t need reinventing; it just needs spinning in different directions.”
Miss Hall has been involved in the Scottsdale Show for her entire life.
• Former Scottsdale Show Ambassadors Emily Nixon and Alice Hall are promoting the benefits of taking part in the program ahead of this year’s show.
“I actually won for the first time when I was 20 years old and then won the State final and went on to represent Tasmania in our national final that was held in Launceston that year.
“I didn’t place and was one of the youngest competitors that year, but I learnt so much about myself and my capabilities and it opened my eyes to the opportunity within the competition.
“Last year was my second year representing Scottsdale Show and although I wasn’t lucky enough to win the
Calls for Pioneer protest
LOCALS ARE calling for the Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service to revisit its decision to shut Pioneer Lake to campers, saying they haven’t been adequately consulted.
PWS installed boulder barriers and new signage to prevent access to the northern edge of Pioneer Lake, after it says it received “multiple complaints” from the local Pioneer community over “unruly behaviour” occurring on the Crown land.
It says it has always been a ‘day use only’ area but dozens of locals who have camped there for generations disagree.
Scottsdale’s Terissa Bowerman has used the facility as a camper for more than 25 years, making wonderful memories with her children and grandchildren and is angry at the new lock-out. She is urging those with an interest in the matter to contact the Parks and Wildlife Service, Minister Nick Duigan and the Dorset Council to air their concerns.
Mr Duigan has been contacted for comment.
“We have lodged our concerns and encourage others to do the same,” she said.
“I think the lack of consultation has annoyed people. A more robust consultation could have come up with management plans to suit everyone.”
At least one of the new boulders erected at the entry pint has already been moved for vehicle access.
When asked how the change was going to be policed and whether fines would be issued for those ignoring the directions, a Department of Natural
Resources and Environment Tasmania spokesman reiterated it was a day use only site, “with areas under management by both the local council and the Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service.”
“PWS has been responding to notifications and community concerns involving anti-social behaviour, rubbish dumping and unauthorised activities at the site,” the spokesman said.
“Any littering on crown land should be reported to PWS, by calling the Litter Reporting Hotline. All visitors to PWS managed land are encouraged to adhere to the Leave No Trace principles.”
State title, I was truly proud of how I went in representing our show.
“The conversations had during the interview with the panel were really open-ended questions about my own thoughts and ideas about our future within the rural shows and how they benefit us now and how we can expand on that in the future.
“It’s a fantastic opportunity no matter the outcome.”
To express an interest, the entry form is on the Show Society’s website.
Spud Fest fun
THE HUMBLE spud will be the star of the menu when the official launch party for the region’s newest major event swings into action later this month.
Scottsdale Spud Fest is hosting a launch, with the support of Scottsdale Lions Club, on October 26 at Bo&Barn.
The renowned Bad Dad Orchestra will be rocking the Jetsonville property as attendees kick up their heels and enjoy local fare developed by Bridport chef Teresa Scott.
With a menu featuring spud croquettes, gourmet potato salad, spit roasted Scottsdale Pork and Ringarooma Lamb, potato buns and a Greek specialty that incorporates Bridestowe Estate lavender for dessert, guests are in for a delicious feast.
“Teresa is highly regarded around the community for her hospitality skills and 20 years’ experience mainly in Northern Tasmania,” organising committee member Carmel Coote said.
“Her highlights include her role at Flinders Island Wharf and starting the beloved Ellesmere Patisserie & Providore in Scottsdale. She also enjoyed working alongside some of Australia’s best chefs.”
Ms Scott is looking forward to the event, which starts at 6pm and costs $75 per person.
“Food is everything,” she said.
“I always cook with love and this shows in my food. Foraging for food and talking direct to farmers and growers is integral to knowing the story of the produce.”
Mrs Coote said she hoped many of the 60 potato farmers in the area would be able to take time away from the paddocks to party.
“We know it is a busy time with planting, but we really want to celebrate them and what they do,” she said.
You can follow Scottsdale Spud Fest on Facebook for more information and updates, including interesting insights into the world of spuds.
• Boulder removed from the access point to Pioneer Lake.
Healthy future for Bridport Playgroup
• Women relaxing at the Sisterhood event which raised funds for Bridport Playgroup.
THE SISTERHOOD Health and Wellness Day was an overwhelming success, raising $6413.05 for Bridport Playgroup, which is now free for families to attend into the future.
Over 60 women attended the event, enjoying a showcase of local food and beverages at the stunning location of Kerguelen, just outside Bridport.
The day focused on women's health and wellness with presenters including a physiotherapist, psychologist, osteopaths, mindfulness coach, representatives from the Royal Flying Doctor Service, a personal trainer, as well as hair styling, Pilates and yoga.
“All these experiences created an atmosphere filled with good vibes, laughter, and informative discussions,” coorganiser Ella Stewart said.
“We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to the presenters who shared their expertise and to all the generous donations that contributed to making the day a success.
“This event not only enhanced accessibility to Bridport Playgroup for families but also strengthened community ties through our shared commitment to women’s health and wellness.
“We look forward to exploring ideas for future events and continuing to support women’s health initiatives based on the feedback from attendees.”
Bench seat to remember Luke
A BENCH seat to remember a beloved Bridport local is in the planning.
Luke Kolkert will be honoured by his family and friends via the Luke’s Wishes fundraiser, with a raffle and country music event being organised to fund the project.
Luke was born with RubinsteinTaybi syndrome, a rare genetic disorder causing learning difficulties, short stature and other debilitating problems.
He was given six months to live when he was born but proved doctors wrong as he enjoyed a wonderful life with his family and friends.
That was until tragedy struck on June 6, when he died suddenly from oesophageal cancer, aged 40.
“He was totally healthy. It has been a big shock. He had been at the gym and at lunch time he said he couldn’t swallow,” his mother Kate said.
A scan not long before had shown a clean bill of health, making his death even more of a shock.
“It had grown so aggressively,” she said.
Alongside Luke’s best mate Bobby Young, Kate is planning to put a bench seat or table and chair with a plaque across from her house “The Old Servo” opposite Trent Water, where he enjoyed spending time with his dogs.
“He always talked about how good it would be to have a seat there so it would be a lovely reminder,” she said.
“He was just a wonderful human.
He loved numbers, birthdays and gameshows. He would count anything.
“He loved the gym and his special treadmill.
“He loved helping people. He was an incredible guy.”
Raffle tickets will be sold at
$2 each or three for $5 with a stall planned on Friday outside Scottsdale Woolworths.
The winning tickets will be drawn on November 29 at The Country Way of Sharing music event at the Mechanics’ Institute Hall.
BOI report still being finalised
AN END date for the long-running Dorset Council Board of Inquiry is still not evident, with the BOI panel still finalising its report.
Local Government Minister Nic Street has not given a date for its completion, with initial hopes the matter would be resolved before the end of the year.
“I share the community’s desire that this inquiry process be concluded as soon as it can, however I must
ensure that it is completed with due process being afforded to everyone involved and that all questions are resolved,” Mr Street said.
“Effectively operating councils are a cornerstone of our communities, especially in regional Tasmania. I will ensure this process is resolved as quickly and robustly as it can be.”
The Board of Inquiry has been provided with a response from Dorset Council.
A spokesperson said the Board was now prioritising the finalisation of its report, after which it would be provided to the Minister.
“Before the Minister determines an appropriate response to the report, he must provide an opportunity for both Councillors and Dorset Council to make a submission on the findings and recommendations of the final report,” the spokesperson said.
• Bobby Young and Kate Kolkert are organising The Country Way of Sharing music event and fundraiser to honour their friend and son Luke who died earlier this year.
Lilydale set for Big Day Out
A FAMILY event to celebrate Children’s Week will be held at Lilydale next weekend.
Big Day Out would be a great event with something for everyone to enjoy, organiser Jenny Story said.
“Last year there was about 600 people in attendance so depending on the weather there should be that many or more,” she said.
Key attractions include Windy Park Alpacas, Marcelle Balloon Artist, Tandarra Ponies, North East Raptor Rescue, face painting, junior footy, trucks, tractors, classic cars, motorbike and food.
The event will run from 10am-2pm on Sunday at Lilydale Football Ground.
Entry is free with a gold coin donation welcome.
Springfield’s PlantFest set for return
• Plant Fest brings large crowds from near and far. Image courtesy of Friends of St Pauls Member Anthony Burrows.
AFTER A record attendance last year, PlantFest is set to return even bigger and better.
Friends of St Paul’s will again host the annual event, raising funds to continue maintenance of the church and surrounding grounds, which have this year already hosted a number of weddings and a naming ceremony.
New attractions for the October 19 event include free craft activities for children and a display by the Veteran and Vintage Car Club of Tasmania.
The Dorset History Society will be on hand with its comprehensive data base to answer questions while a digital display curated by Dorset Timber Getters of Bygone Days will be on show.
Food, coffee and tea as well as wine tastings will be offered.
Gates open at 9.30am with the official opening at 11am followed by an orchid and special plant auction.
Entry is free.
Open garden fundraiser
KYLIE RATTRAY-CASSIDY is set to share her passion for proteas and dedication to dahlias at a special fundraising open garden.
The gate at Three Mile Spring in Scottsdale will swing open this Saturday, October 12, welcoming visitors to the 1ha garden that she has been carefully curating over the past 15 years.
“There has been a lot of trial and error,” Mrs Rattray-Cassidy admits.
“It’s a bit eclectic. A bit of this and a bit of that. There are no rules – I probably should have some!”
Kylie and husband Matthew developed the property alongside their Three Mile Spring Angus stud. It has been a labour of love as she mixes her self-taught passion for gardening while working full-time at Scottsdale High School.
When they arrived at the house there was an old conifer and rock garden with one corner a jasmine and blackberry jungle.
She planted an orchard with apples, pears and quinces but the possums became problematic so she underplanted and turned it into an ornamental garden.
A pride of peacocks has recently tested her patience and the will power of her Ranunculus.
But despite the challenges of rural gardening, there has been some success.
The garden now boasts a mix
of formal spaces. Native plants are interspersed around the outskirts of the garden, including up the driveway, while a classy row of rhododendron are currently on full show.
A range of old machinery is scattered throughout to give a rustic feel.
“I love old machinery which goes back to my father Athol, who collected old farm rubbish,” she said.
They built a vegie garden and a chook shed but neither are used for their intended purpose - with dahlias and other cut flower varieties taking pride of place.
She fondly recalls trips to Ringarooma with her mum to buy dahlias and now
boasts over 200 varieties.
“They became trendy and when we got married I grew a white cactus dahlia for the wedding bouquet and then it started from there,” she said.
“I love caring for them. I just love all flowers.”
The open garden will take place from 10am to 4pm at 321 East Minstone Road. Entry is $5 for adults with children under 12 free
All proceeds will go to the Drug Education Network – Tasmania to support programs in our NorthEast schools, with hopes of a parent symposium being organised for next year.
$200m farm sales in focus
T CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1.
Rushy includes substantial water entitlements of 12,548ML and on-farm water storages (3,935ML capacity), with an existing permit to construct an additional 2,500ML dam. There is 1,170ha developed for centre pivot irrigation, a 693ha irrigated dairy platform with
significant scope for expansion and an estimated carrying capacity of 85,000 Dry Sheep Equivalents.
Expressions of interest close 12 noon, Friday November 1.
Meanwhile the EOI process for the Flinders Island properties Tiree (2339ha), Reedy Lagoon (1688ha) and Durris (599ha) closes
tomorrow, Thursday, October 10 at midday.
The aggregation is said to be worth somewhere in the vicinity of $90m. Michael Warrren from Nutrien Harcourts said there had been enquiry and interest from local, interstate and international parties due to the scale of the operation.
Test your trivia knowledge
THE TAKE Some Time Trivia Night will be hosted by Dorset Suicide Prevention Network and Trivia People Tasmania this Friday as part of Mental Health Week.
The Mistress of Mayhem will have the buzzers out to test your knowledge with jam packed fun and interactive trivia rounds. There is space available for more teams to enter.
Mandatory eID for Sheep & Goats begins 1 January 2025
All sheep and goats born on or after 1 January 2025 that move off a farm or other registered agricultural property, including backyards, will be required to have an NLIS approved eID tag.
All livestock supply chain participants must be ready to scan eID tags from 1 January 2025.
To support the eID rollout the Government is providing funding for scanning equipment and has reduced the price of eID tags.
Visit www.nre.tas.gov.au/eID for more information.
The cost is $5 per person with doors to the Scottsdale Football Clubrooms
open from 6.30 for a 7pm start. There will be prizes for people wearing orange, the official colour of Mental Health Week.
To book your space contact Cheryl on 0467 532 401.
• Kylie Rattray-Cassidy at her garden Three Mile Spring which she will open to the public for a Drug Education Network fundraiser on Saturday.
Thirty years of Bridport Lions Celebrating Bridport Lions Club’s 30th Anniversary
THE BRIDPORT Lions Club has celebrated 30 years of generosity to the community, reminiscing about a large range of activities and events over three decades.
Members were joined by District Governor Victoria Cochrane, from Rocky Cape Lions, to celebrate the occasion at a Gala Dinner at the Bridport Golf Club last Tuesday night, October 1.
Around 45 people attended the evening and witnessed the presentation of the Melvin Jones Award for exemplary humanitarian services above and beyond the normal Lion commitment to Doug Beswick.
The club’s official historian, Pat Child, said Mr Beswick was still an active member and always on hand to help at community functions, supported by his wife, Valerie.
“Doug has shared our journey over the past 30 years,” Mrs Child said.
“His nickname is ‘the engineer’ because he makes sure all his ideas get carried through.
“He is almost 91 and still has the energy to organise functions, collect batteries and make sure we are cooking the sausages properly at our barbecues.
“In the early years the dress code was very formal for dinners and Changeovers and Doug has always been immaculately dressed.
“I have been Fines Master for many years and Doug has been the easiest to fine. He always made a "memorable" occasion during our meetings and social events.”
When presenting Mr Beswick with the award, club member Peter Sattler recalled one of those occasions when seats from the club’s famous merry-go-round were seen falling off his vehicle onto the highway.
Mrs Child said he had been a key part of the club’s journey.
She’s been charting the club’s life since it started and has 10 scrap books full of photographs and cuttings.
The important historical records document the journey of a group of locals keen to have an active service organisation in the area .
They started the club, sponsored by North-East Lions, with 16 male and nine female members and were officially chartered and inducted into the
organisation on June 30, 1994.
Founding local members included Mr Beswick, Rob Monson, Tom Harper, Peter Williams, Jan Dixon and Bob Child who attended the 30th Year Gala Dinner.
The first president of Lions Club of Bridport was the late Cob Stone.
In 1994 it was rare to have women in Lions, and Bridport was one of the first to include them.
“We have such fond early memories.” Mrs Child said.
“A highlight was making a merry-goround with white horses from scratch. It was hours of enjoyable work and always a ‘Happy Hour’ afterwards!
“We constructed a putt putt golf course which was located at the now Bridport Food Truck Park and our Lions volunteers operated it at weekends and on school holidays.
“Another portable merry-go-round was built with chairs and was enjoyed by children for many years around the the region at several events costing $1 a ride!
“Our children soon learnt to help us so they got a free ride.
“The Club built a new skate park in the area between the Information centre and river at the cost of $25,000 plus lots of man power and in-kind help! We were much younger in those days!
“The club did a lot of catering for different events including the Bowood Races, Christmas parties, events on the Village Green, conferences, weddings and funerals.
“In the earlier days we hosted Australia Day activities opposite the RSL complete with egg and spoon races, sack races, water slide and water activities.
“For many years we have continued to host Christmas by the Sea which is getting bigger and better each year. Bob has been Santa for most of the 30 years!
“We have always had a lot of social outings including picnics, car rallies, progressive dinners and dress up nights and made our own entertainment at dinners and even the nursing home.”
Bridport Lions Club currently has 31 members, who work tirelessly to support the local community.
Craig Steel was the President of the North-East Lions Club who sponsored the
Lions Club of Bridport and attended the 30th birthday celebration with a cohort of his club’s members.
Bridport’s second president, Jan Alomes (nee Dixon) spoke at the dinner, where they dined on roast lamb and chicken followed by hearty serves of sticky date pudding and pavlova, cooked and served by members of the Bridport Croquet Club.
All this was topped off with slices of festive blue and yellow cake made by the Bridport Sugar ‘n Spice Bakery.
Entertainment was provided by Club President Jan Foster and husband, Glen, also an active member, who was also MC for the night.
They were supported by Scottsdale singer Bobby Young, with a couple of songs from Janet Brown, a club member for 18 years.
The club paid tribute to farmer Peter Sattler who is also regularly involved, including lending a paddock for the club’s annual Bonfire and Fireworks night.
A quiet, but very significant and highly valued financial supporter of the club has always been local businessman and Life Member, Mathew Bayles.
He’s never failed to help out with funding and/or in-kind support for local Lions projects, including the skate park, half-court basketball court, the original Lions catering caravan and the major refurbishment completed in 2024, as well as the supply and set up of the club’s storage container.
Other Lions projects include The Lions Adventure Playground, a rescue vehicle for the Bridport Surf Life Saving Club, security lights in Main St and providing several defibrillators around town.
Popular functions are the Barnbougle Golf Day, Carols by the Sea, Easter Egg Hunt, the Show and Shine Car/Bike Show, clearing sales, community catering and the Bonfire and Fireworks Night.
Lions Club of Bridport regularly support local community organizations – Bridport Primary School, Scottsdale High School, Rural Alive and Well, Childhood Cancer Research, Need for Feed – NE Community, Neuroendocrine Cancer Research, Cystic Fibrosis Tasmania, Samaritans Purse – Christmas Shoe Boxes, Parkinson’s Research and our Bridport Men’s Shed.
Charter Members – September 17, 1994 - Jan E Alomes, Ted A Barnett, Tamara A Barnett, Doug A Beswick, Bob G Child, Chris G Clark, Val E Clark, Gerald P DeVries, Maryke DeVries, Bruce M Finger, Tom A Harper, Greg B Hickey, Stephanie R Hickey, Rob G Monson, Ron E Rice, Willy E Richards, Kevin R Richardson, Nadeen T Richardson, Gary R
Simon Wood
Liberal Member for Bass
Shipton, Cob E W Stone, Kaye D Stone, Peter J Williams, Shan M Williams, Rob J Williams, Deb F Webster.
• Members making the old Putt Putt Golf Course at Bridport.
• The merry-go-round with handmade horses was a popular project.
• Some original Charter Members of Bridport Lions Club.
• Murray Avery and Cob Stone.
Celebrating Bridport Lions Club’s 30th Anniversary
• Christine and Graham Beswick.
• Eddie and Helen Schuuring and Janet Brown
• Jan and Neil Dixon.
• Jan Foster and Victoria Cochrane.
• Jeanette Halstead and Murray Dolbey.
• Jeff Harper, Craig Steele, Drew Carter and John Wardlaw.
• Jennifer Dolbey and Elaine Hill.
• Jenny Cox and Stoni Seckold.
• Maria Saunders Peter Sattler and Ann Maree O’Keefe.
• Richy Cochrane and Leonie Johnston.
• Valerie and Doug Beswick.
MARKETPLACE
ADVERTISER CLASSIFIEDS
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SALE
SATURDAY October 12, 8.30am to 1.00pm, 330 Bridport Road, Jetsonville.
DEATH NOTICES
RATTRAY, Wayne Robert
22.11.1937 – 1.10.2024
Loved & loving husband of Gaye.
Proud father of Robbie, Neville, Barrie & Kent and their families.
Devoted Pop to his 12 grandchildren & all his great-grandchildren.
Loved only son of Ted & Jean (both dec).
Loving brother of Jill (dec), Maureen, Marilyn & Robyn.
Sadly missed by Lily, our fur baby.
Thank you to the LGH for your loving care of Wayne.
FUNERAL NOTICES
RATTRAY, Wayne Robert
Family and friends are warmly invited to attend a funeral service to celebrate Wayne’s life, to be held at the Scottsdale RSL & Community Club on Thursday October 10, 2024 at 2:00pm. In
PUBLIC NOTICES
THIS WEEK!
Willis & Friends will be holding our BIGGEST POP-UP SHOP EVER!
Lietinna Hall, Lietinna
Thursday October 10, 9am - 5pm
Friday October 11, 9am - 5pm
Saturday October 12, 9am - 2pm
Ringers Western, Ridgeline, Bisley, Betty Basic, Givoni & new labels.
LOTS of bargains, you don’t want to miss it!
to be held on Saturday 26th October 2024 at the Don Dickenson Northbourne Community Centre, Northbourne Ave., Scottsdale commencing at 2pm. AGENDA
Confirmation of minutes of the 2023 AGM President’s Report, Financial Reports, Election of office bearers, appointment of an auditor, general business. G. Rosier, Public Officer.
A special general meeting will be held following the AGM to accept amendments to the Village Rules.
New Art & Craft venue in Bridport invites expressions of interest from local Makers. Goods sold on 30% commission. Please email: cwabridport@gmail.com
BRIDPORT EX-SERVICES BOWLS & COMMUNITY CLUB INC
2024 Annual General Meeting
Sunday October 27, 3pm at The Bunker. Meeting includes the elections for President, Vice-President, Secretary, Treasurer, 4 x General Committee Members. NOMINATIONS
- Forms available from The Bunker.
- Must be received by Public Officer prior to 6pm Wednesday October 16.
- Will be displayed on club noticeboard.
*Special Notice of Motion: Constitution amendments as per Club Noticeboard*
Girl Guides recruitment
BRIDPORT GIRL Guides are looking for girls aged 10 years and over to join their senior unit.
Dorset District Manager Lyn Commane said Guiding particularly suits girls who are not “right into” sport but would like to have fun, challenge themselves to learn new skills, be of service to the community and have fun outdoors as part of a group of girls their age.
“Guiding can be a life-long activity. At the moment we have Jen Barron who is a leader in World Guiding attending a seminar in Ghana with Guides from all over the world.
The local group has recently enjoyed a trip to rock climbing and had a visit from a local paramedic to provide insights into her work.
“Guiding is non-competitive, it is all about self-improvement and trying your best at new things,” Mrs Commane said.
“One of our Bridport leaders, Rosie Waite, is at present in Mexico at a guiding activity training young women at the Juliette Lowe Seminar for 18-30 year olds on leadership and the promotion of world peace.”
Anyone who would like to try Guiding in the senior group can contact Lyn on 0409 561 642 for more information.
• Ramona Simmons, Louisa Smythe, Frankie Glasson , Chloe Lethborg, Amali Collier, Charlotte Maxwell, Anika Collier with Tahlia Blythe, Imogen Smythe and Olivia Lovell at a rock climbing adventure.
Scottsdale area daily, Bridport on Thursdays
Beachgoers urged to take care as shorebird nesting season begins
BY NICK DUIGAN MINISTER FOR PARKS AND ENVIRONMENT
AS SPRING blooms across Tasmania, shorebirds flock to our beaches to nest and breed.
It is important for beachgoers to remain vigilant and mindful of the bird species that rely on our coastal areas for survival.
Tasmania’s coastlines aren’t only places for recreation, they are vital habitats in which many species of shorebirds nest, breed, and raise their young.
Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service works with local councils and community groups every year to set up fencing to help protect shorebird breeding grounds.
We ask that beachgoers take extra care during this critical stage of the shorebird lifecycle and help protect these special birds for generations to come.
Shorebird nesting season typically runs from October through to March each year. Breeding shorebirds and their eggs are vulnerable due to appearing camouflaged on dry sand.
Eggs are laid in shallow nests called scrapes and newly hatched chicks are unable to fly for up
to a month, until they grow their flight feathers, making it easy for them to be disturbed or harmed.
Beachgoers can help look after shorebird habitat by following a few simple steps:
• Walk only on wet sand below the high tide mark.
• Keep your distance from nesting birds on beaches.
• Only walk your dog in approved areas away from known shorebird nesting areas and keep them on a lead.
• Taking vehicles on beaches should also be avoided to minimise disturbance on nesting beaches.
• Do not collect seaweed or other beach materials.
The most common shorebird species found on Tasmanian beaches include the hooded plover, red capped plover, seagull, Pacific gull, kelp gull, pied oystercatcher and sooty oystercatcher.
Our native wildlife is part of what makes Tasmania the best place to live and raise a family.
Find out more about shorebirds on the Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service website: https://parks.tas.gov.au/discovery-and-learning/ wildlife/seabirds-and-shorebirds
• Take care as shorebirds start nesting and breeding.
STT’s Swift Parrot search
SUSTAINABLE TIMBER Tasmania’s Swift Parrot Monitoring Program is back in action as the critically endangered bird returns to Tasmania in search of forest areas with the richest food sources to forage and breed.
Now in its fourth year, the project focuses on effectively managing and supporting habitat for breeding swift parrots in
Tasmania’s public production forest. Sustainable Timber Tasmania spent the past month surveying 1,238 trees across 129 sites to evaluate eucalypt bud levels.
Findings from the survey show that Eucalyptus ovata and Eucalyptus brookeriana in the Eastern Tiers and East Coast will be among areas set to provide foraging opportunities for this season.
Eucalyptus globulus in coastal areas will also be important food sources this season.
General Manager Conservation and Land Management Suzette Weeding said that STT was proactively monitoring and evaluating any potential nesting activity on public production forests.
“Our research and operations team
ADVERTORIAL
conducted reconnaissance this past week located in and around our forest coupes with potential foraging and nesting habitat,” she said
“No swift parrots were heard or seen, however our team placed acoustic monitors out in the forest, which will be our ears to listen for any swift parrot activity in the area over the coming weeks.”
Your one-stop-shop for landscaping supplies
WHETHER YOU are completing a small back yard job or a major corporate project, the team at Bridport Landscape Products can help meet your landscaping requirements.
From road base and blue metal, to mulch and soils as well as decorative stone and landscape rocks, the Heckrath Rd business caters for all landscape needs.
Open since 2021, it’s the only business in the North-East supplying such a comprehensive range of materials, most of which is sourced locally.
“Having a local landscape yard makes landscaping so easy, you used to have to source all products in Launceston, but now it’s right on your door step,” Manager Jason Sarich said.
Bridport Landscape Products is proud of its Dorset Gold special premium blend of top soil perfect for any lawn top dressing and a potting mix suitable for all garden beds.
It is also the only North-East agent stocking Padgett’s Pine Bark.
“It’s a very popular product especially at this time of the year with people
making their gardens look nice and tidy,” Mr Sarich said.
“Spring is always a really busy time for the business with plenty of people getting their hands dirty in the gardens.”
Pea straw is also in stock which is great for the vegie garden.
Bridport Landscape Products is also the sole agent in Bridport for Cement Australia, carrying bags of GP Cement and bags of rapid set cement.
Bridport Landscape Products also has a wide range of items available to hire – including a mini excavator, jack hammers, quick-cut saws and wackerpackers.
The business can deliver products around the North-East within 24 hours of ordering.
The site, at 17 Heckrath Rd, is also available for drive-in customers from 7am-4pm Monday to Friday.
“Whether it’s half a cubic metre on the back of a ute or a small bag, right through to larger or multiple loads, we cater for everyone’s needs,” Mr Sarich said.
For more details and orders call 0429 420 259.
Brickie sand
• Paul Smythe and Jason Sarich
Goldfinch claims NTFA B&F
• Ethan Goldfinch from the East Coast Swans, this year’s winner of the NTFA Division 1 Best & Fairest Award.
EAST COAST Swans midfielder Ethan Goldfinch has collected his trophy as the NTFA Division 1 Best and Fairest for this season.
The Swans star had a very consistent season, also winning his club Best and Fairest for the second time.
Goldfinch took home the title with 22 votes ahead of John McKenzie from Old Scotch on 19 votes and Perth’s Andy Potter third with 18.
He was a premiership player in 2018 for the Swans and is praised for his “raking left foot”.
“He has assisted this season with coaching for the boys based in Launceston,” Club President Stephen Walley said.
“He was selected in the NTFA Div 1 team of the year for 2024 and we are extremely hopeful of retaining his services in 2025.”
Individual and team success at Nationals
TWO NORTH-EAST footballers have claimed All-Australian selection at the AFL Masters National Carnival in Western Australia with another two walking away with premierships.
“We had a great week away,” group spokesman Cabel Hall said.
“The weather was a little bit windy on a few of the days but was beautiful for the grand final matches.”
The 45-plus TAS/NSW combined team beat WA to win their division with Manuel Hall and David “Flash” Lithgow happy to be part of the successful team, with Ange Hall team manager.
The final score was Tas/NSW 7.4 (46) to WA 2.1 (13).
SCOTTSDALE GOLF CLUB
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 1 WOMEN’S FOURSOMES CHAMPIONSHIPS ROUND 1.
Day’s Event Winners: T Hall & C Mackenzie 84 1/2 nett. R/Up: N
Lette & J Collins 86 nett. Foursomes
Championships Round 1 Leaders: T Hall & C Mackenzie 114 Gross: N
Lette & J Collins 115 Gross. Men’s
Stableford Winner: B Fahey 37 points. R/Up: C Styles 34 points. Longest Putt: T Hall; G Blackwell. Gobbler: B Fahey.
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 5
MONTHLY MEDAL: MEN’S CHMPIONSHIPS ROUND 1.
“They both played really well in the grand final,” Hall said.
“Manuel played forward and midfield and did a good job while Flash played ruck and forward and some of the highlights were his trademark baulks and dummies and blind turns and no look handballs without moving his feet!”
The over 50’s featuring Heath Blair, Jason Hall, Philip Lethborg, Peter Heazlewood, and Zac Collings made it to the Grand Final but lost to the home side 7.13 (55) - 0.1 (1).
In the Over 40’s Cabel was joined by his brother Denham Hall and Marc Nunan.
They also made the grand final against WA but the home side was too
strong on their home turf, with Tassie losing 16.13 (109) to 1.3 (9).
Denham Hall was named All Australian for his efforts at full back throughout the carnival while Philip Lethborg was named in the Over 50’s All Australian team for his work up forward.
Letitia Johnston was awarded a coveted towel by the Tasmanian coach for best on ground performances across the week – a nice reward after a tough week of competition with the Tassie women not winning any games.
Next year’s carnival will be hosted by Darwin and Hall said he expected another strong contingent from the North-East to vie for selection in the Tassie teams.
SPORTS RESULTS
Day’s Event Winner: C Dobson 69 nett. R/Up: G Booth 72 nett. Others - T Mundy 75, S Krushka 75, J Wood 76, C Styles 76. Current Championship Leaders: S Krushka 74 Gross, G Booth 88. NTP 1st/10th - Wade Howlett. NTP 5th/14th - S Krushka. Longest Putt - J Krushka. Putting - S Krushka 25 putts
BRIDPORT GOLF CLUB
SATURDAY OCTOBER 5, 2024
STABLEFORD/MONTHLY TROPHY
Trophy Winner: K Groves 60. Monthly Trophy Winner: A Johnson 34. R/Up: K Groves 29 c/b S Smart, G Gurr 27, K Roberts 26, K Russell 26. N/Pin 5/14: K Groves. N/Pin
6/15: A Johnson. Friday Flappers: J LeFevre 18.
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 2
Monthly Trophy: K Cuthbertson 76
L Noonan 77, H Davies 77. NTP 6/15: M Bauld. Longest Putt OTF: /L Noonan. Putting H Davies 30. Winner Men: J Le Fevre 32 c/b K Russell. NTP 1/10: D Hyland. Croquet Draw: J Pixley.
MOORINA GOLF CLUB
SATURDAY OCTOBER 5 - 3 PERSON
AMBROSE
Winners M, R & A Youd 60 2/6, 2nd
R Apted, M Taylor, S Sculthorpe 62, 3rd B & N Nichols & B Broere 62 2/6, 4th F&K Wagner & B Holbein 624/6.
Men’s NTP 3/12: R Nichols. Ladies NTP 3/12 K Cuthbertson. Drives Men’s B Wilson. Drives Ladies M Youd.
RINGAROOMA GOLF CLUB FIRST ROUND CLUB CHAMPIONSHIP
Winner S Burr 64 net. R/Up R Berne 66 Net. Third S Worker 69 net. Fourth L McDougall 70 net. NTP 5/14 R Berne. NTP 7/16 L McDougall. Championship Leaders A Grade: R Berne 73, S Burr 74, S Worker 75. B Grade: M Summers 92, M Cook 96, T Harper 98. C Grade: L Barrett 94, D Reynolds 107, B Jacobs 110.
Scottsdale Golf Club Foursomes Championship Round 1 winners Teresa Hall and Cheryl Mackenzie.
• David Lithgow and Manuel Hall with the winners cup for their division.
• Denham Hall, Manuel Hall, Marc Nunan and Cabel Hall at the Masters tournament in WA last week.
SPORT
• Bridport’s Dearne and Joe Krushka with baby Archie are looking forward to a big 2025 with the Scottsdale Football Club.
Krushka duo set for 2025
A BABY, a wedding and hip surgery certainly made for an eventful 2024 for Scottsdale Football Club star Dearne Krushka.
The 29-year-old is eager for season 2025 to roll around so she can return to the field in a major boost for the Magpies’ women’s team, which will warmly welcome her competitive spirit back into the fold.
The only thing that has changed for the midfielder is her surname – with Taylor replaced by Krushka, following an intimate wedding with partner Joe at Coles Bay with only family present in August.
It was another highlight for the sporty couple after they welcomed baby Archie a week before the 2024 footy season kicked off.
“It was obviously very challenging. No one can prepare you for motherhood but
thankfully he has been an easy baby,” she said.
“I took it a bit for granted and just thought I would bounce back but everyone’s different. I stayed pretty active during my pregnancy but a natural birth to a big baby with a few complications during delivery didn’t help but thankfully we are all happy and healthy now!
“I had planned to be back this year but I decided to have the hip operation I needed when Archie was three months old.”
Her rehabilitation is progressing well, with light gym sessions to build muscle strength and straight line running.
Joe is also hoping for a smooth run on the field next season, following a raft of injuries including a calf and a split kidney that limited his playing time this year.
Having grown up playing netball, Dearne’s sister Cara encouraged her to put on the footy boots and she has well and truly followed in the footsteps of her father Michael, a Life Member of the Magpies, and grandfather Graeme.
She started playing football with Scottsdale in 2017 and was recruited to Launceston where she played in the TSL and then the Blues’ NTFA team before returning to Scottsdale in 2023.
“It was a no brainer to go back,” she said. “My number 29 is the same as Dad’s so that is pretty special.”
Other senior women’s player announcements in recent days include Tyeisha Hinds, who returns to the club after being a member of the 2020 premiership team.
With close to 80 games under her belt, she was the MVP in Divison 1 this year playing for George Town and team of the year member and has also played NTFAW representative footy.
Sophie Harrison (Townsend) will also wear the black and white in season 2025.
Having played over 120 games of senior womens football with a number of representative games over the years, Sophie arrives at the club after a stint with the Meander Valley Suns.
“I think we are going to be in a better position with our coach (Mark Prior) and new girls from last year sticking together and I am quite competitive, so I am going to bring that to the team,” Dearne said.
“I am very excited to be back.”