Dorset joins in DAP Anger
BY RACHEL WILLIAMS
THE STATE Government is under fire for its decision to introduce new Development Assessment Panels at the expense of local decision making for some development proposals.
Dorset Council has joined the chorus of criticism by local government representatives, who say the move raises
many concerns. Commissioner Andrew Wardlaw said the Dorset community valued local decisionmaking and he was “deeply disappointed” with the new approach.
The Government argues it “takes the politics out of planning” and the move has been supported by the building industry.
With support from Labor, the Liberal Party’s Bill passed through the House of
Assembly last week.
But it's not a fait accompli, with it set to be debated in the State’s Upper House on Thursday – the two major parties need at least two Independant members to join with them for it to be passed.
McIntyre Independent MLC Tania Rattray said removing planning from Local Government was a serious issue and should be carefully considered, saying she’s
yet to be briefed by stakeholders including the Local Government Association of Tasmania.
The message from LGAT will be clear however as the State’s 29 councils voted unanimously to reject the proposal.
“The broad and subjective criteria proposed in the Bill grant the Minister excessive power, with little accountability,”
T CONTINUES ON PAGE 5.
• Pia Whelan, Aria Binns, Zara Brown and Avery Whelan are preparing to add some Christmas colour to the streets of Scottsdale later this week in readiness for next Friday's Late Night Shopping spectacular. T FIND OUT MORE ON PAGE 7.
DO YOU REMEMBER?
Proudly brought to you by SCOTTSDALE LIONS CLUB
WE SERVE
10 Years Ago – November 26, 2014 Retirement beckons after 51 years. Many people spend four or five years in the one job, but for Branxholm Sawmill saw doctor Michael Singline, 51 and a half years isn’t that long at all. Michael started work at the Branxholm Sawmill in 1961, when life was a lot less complicated but the work much harder. Michael was a benchman at the sawmill, which was cutting softwood even in those early days, with the occasional hardwood log coming through the mill. The most amazing thing Michael ever experienced was when Geoff Kerrison moved the sawmill from its original site to the current one without losing a day’s production – the new mill being a vast improvement on the old.
20 Years Ago – December 1, 2004 Special Olympians Welcome
Six athletes from the North-East will travel to Launceston for the experience of their lives. Nick Barnes, Aaron Burr, Zoe Lovegrove, Mitchell Gibson, Joshua Glover and Joshua Goss competed in the first Australian National Junior Special Olympics from December 3 - 5. The group were accompanied by three local officials –Pauline Gillies (Team Manager), Pat Young (Assistant Coach Athletics) and Vicki Forsyth (Coach Basketball). Athletes with disabilities from all over Australia aged from 8-15 years old would take part.
40 Years Ago – November 29, 1984
Now Tasmanian Television Producer
Former Scottsdale High School student Mr Mark Nichols was appointed Tasmanian Television production supervisor for both TNT9 and TVT6. Mark left Scottsdale High School and joined TVT6 in Hobart where he became production supervisor. He produced a documentary on the Briseis Mine, as well as other stories and he was the producer of Multicap Quest which screened on TNT9. Mark is the son of Mr and Mrs Les Nichols of West Scottsdale.
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
VALUATIONS CAUSE
INAPPROPRIATE RATE RISES
It is about time Councils stop using property valuations as a mechanism for calculating rates. At the stroke of a pen, my rates have increased by $280 this year and this is despite the Council applying a 15% cap on increases. My ability to pay hasn’t increased by the same amount.
My rates bear no relationship to services that the Council provides to me. Worse, there appears to be no transparency on just how these valuations are calculated and by whom. Rates are used to provide services of many kinds
to people who live in a community. The amount we pay for these services should be in proportion to those received. Not all residents have sealed roads, footpaths, street lighting and garbage removal.
It is stated that rates are merely a form of taxation and are based on how much your property is worth just like your taxes are based on your income. We have control of our income, but no control over revaluations, so this is a completely unjust form of taxation.
Rates should be calculated on which services your property and you receive. Some services are community based,
for example sports facilities, parks and playgrounds. Everyone can enjoy these and so all should pay a “community based” rate.
In addition you should then pay an extra rate for the specific services you and your property receive. This information is obviously used in the valuation process so can be used to calculate the “service rate”.
The present method of rate calculation is unfair, archaic and a lazy way of raising the necessary capital to maintain our standard of living.
Jeff Jennings, Bridport
Active playground plans revealed
A MAJOR upgrade to the Scottsdale Children’s Reserve will be completed by the middle of next year with three choices shortlisted for public feedback.
The $140,000 upgrade will see the replacement of the main combination piece, the old helicopter destroyed by a deliberately lit fire, and an upgrade to the swing set.
Dorset Council has released three concept designs for the community to provide feedback on what they want.
Option one and two involve a combination main piece focusing on school age children with a variety of net and rock wall climbing frames as well as slides, plus a choice of a smaller secondary piece (a tractor or a helicopter) targeting younger children.
The third option is for a large combination piece targeting all ages with a key feature of a winding slide.
A new 5m cable rider (flying fox) is also being included as part of the
Scottsdale Show colouring competition winners
• An artist impression of one of the options for the Scottsdale Children's Reserve.
planned works regardless of the final design chosen.
The works are part of an overall playground upgrade project being funded as part of Round 1 of the Open Spaces Grants Program. Winnaleah Park and Branxholm Park have already completed community consultation with works scheduled for completion at both sites early in the new year.
Commissioner Andrew Wardlaw said the Children’s Reserve was a high
priority for upgrades due to aging quipment and its central location and usage levels.
“The upgrade will complement the recently completed Scottsdale Community Bike Track and provide an exciting new space for children and young people to engage in active play,” he said.
To have your say on the proposed works visit www.dorset.tas.gov.au/ major-projects.
NORTH EASTERN EVENTS CALENDAR 2024/2025
November 29
• Scottsdale Senior Social Club, Xmas Northbourne Hall, 11:00am
December 6
• Christmas Market Scottsdale Mechanics Hall
• George Town Christmas Carnival George Town
• Late Night Shopping Scottsdale
December 7
• Mannalargenna Day Festival – 10th Anniversary Tebrakunna Country, Cape Portland
December 8
• Rotary Dorset Christmas Celebration, Scottsdale Rec Ground, 11:00am – 2:00pm
• Lilydale Community Christmas Carols Lilydale Bowls Club
December 14
• Braxholm Wood Chops Branxholm
• Friends of St Paul’s Springfield Carols Springfield Hall, 7:00pm
December 15
• Lions Club of Bridport Carols by the Sea Bridport Village Green, 5:00pm
• Christmas Market Mathinna School, Mathinna
• Scottsdale Christmas Carols Scottsdale Primary School, 5:00pm
• Family Fun Day Lebrina Hall
December 21
Christmas in Branxholm Branxholm Rec Ground, from 5:00pm
January 4
• Bridport Niche Village Market Bridport, 9:30am
• St Helens Rodeo Pyengana
Freya Garwood 8 years and under
Chloe Gofton 16 years and under
Millie Jones 12 years and under Congratulations to the winners who will each receive a $20 Good Sports voucher.
Shed fire deliberate
FIRE INVESTIGATORS have deemed a shed fire on Pipers Brook Road, Lebrina, last Friday was deliberately lit.
Crews from Lebrina, Lilydale, Scottsdale and George Town arrived on the scene to find a shed fully alight, and they quickly contained and extinguished the blaze.
Police are investigating and anyone with information is asked to contact police on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers Tasmania at crimestopperstas.com.au and quote OR 759563.
Report response issued
THE LOCAL Government Minister has been sent a final submission from Dorset Council in relation to the revised report by the Board of Inquiry.
Commissioner Andrew Wardlaw considered the matter at a Closed Session Special Meeting of Council last Wednesday, November 20.
Submissions were due to be back with the Government by today but it is understood a number of Councillors have asked for an extension to provide their response and have been given until Friday.
Mr Wardlaw said Council’s submission relating to the findings and recommendations was prepared in collaboration with Council’s legal advisor and provided to the Minister.
“Council will not be making any further comment in relation to the Board of Inquiry Report to its submission until such time as the Minister makes a decision and provides a response,” he said.
It is not yet known whether a response will be made and the report details released by the Government before the end of the year as originally hoped.
Commissioner Wardlaw has been acting as the Council since August 2023.
RFDS visits Scottsdale
THE ROYAL Flying Doctors Service visited Scottsdale Primary School last week to provide a lesson on the important service it provides to the community.
Students from four classes had hands on experiences with Morse Code, medical equipment and the simulator.
Children learned that the man who started RFDS, the Reverend John Flynn is on the $20 note.
“I enjoyed flying the plane in the simulator. I also enjoyed the stories the instructor shared, especially where they
flew to The Nut in Stanley to deliver anti-venom to a man who was bitten by a tiger snake,” said Vince Howard from Grade 4.
“The Police had to ask locals to help light up the run way with their car lights.”
Will Moore, from Grade 3, said he enjoyed flying the plane with the simulator, “pulling up on the lever to go up, and down to go down. I learnt how to do CPR and how to use the special technology that saves people and reads their heart”.
• Lily Day and Hugh Rice were in the RFDS hot seat.
Boundary change wait continues
MORE THAN a year on from the release of the Future of Local Government Review report, there is still no answer as to whether Dorset will have its boundaries changed.
A Government response to longawaited reforms to municipal areas remains with the new Local Government Minister Kerry Vincent.
Mr Vincent said the reforms recommended by the Future of Local Government Review have required careful thought and collaboration with the local government sector and their respective communities.
“I’m pleased that a number of
councils have already begun discussions around voluntary amalgamations and service sharing arrangements and the Government will provide a pathway to enable these discussions to progress,” he said.
“I look forward to releasing the Government’s response shortly.”
Commissioner Andrew Wardlaw said Dorset Council was awaiting the State Government's announcement regarding its intentions.
“The Council remains committed to engaging constructively in any reform processes aimed at enhancing
the structure and function of local governance to best serve our community,” Mr Wardlaw said.
The final report was released in October 2023. In April 2024, Dorset Council agreed with the recommendation of a “North-East” Council, whereby Dorset would grow to include rural areas to the west from George Town and to the southwest of the City of Launceston.
Weldborough, the Blue Tier Mountain Bike Trails, and farms near Ansons Bay were also mooted by Dorset as being included from Break O’Day as part of any shake-up of boundaries.
• Scottsdale Primary School Grade 2/3 Lethborg during the RFDS visit.
Culture on display
the event to be filmed as part of an upcoming edition of popular ABC television show Back Roads.
An entire day of activity has been organised for community members to embrace the culture of the traditional custodians of the land, the Pairrebeenne/Trawlwoolway clan.
The Welcome to Country, Smoking and Ochre Ceremony and flag raising will take place at 10.30.
There will be tasters of crayfish, mutton fish (abalone), mutton bird, kangaroo, salt bush, samphire, sausages, salads and fruit.
A guided walk and talk On Country will be held with the Tebrakunna Rangers, and there will also be guided tours of Woolnorth Renewables’ Musselroe Wind Farm.
There will be live music, a puppetry show, a spear throwing display and opportunities to take part in clay animal craft, rock and shell painting, paper bark craft, necklace and bracelet making as well as yarning circles.
An Art Market with a selection of Tasmanian Aboriginal Artists selling their unique crafts (cash only) will also be a feature.
Entry to the family-friendly and drug and alcohol-free event is via a gold coin donation.
Veteran vehicle on the road
GEORGE TOWN Veterans now have a reliable and comfortable way to travel to medical appointments.
Thanks to a contribution of $25,000 from Bell Bay Aluminium, along with $3,000 from the George Town Lions Club, the George Town RSL Sub-Branch has been able to purchase a vehicle dedicated to transporting members and their families to medical appointments across the state.
FRIDAY RIDAY BLAC K F
Previously, a few dedicated George Town RSL members volunteered their time and personal vehicles to assist veterans.
Bell Bay Aluminium General Manager Richard Curtis said he was proud of the contribution and the positive impact it would have.
“Our Voqonic Local Voices Survey in 2023 highlighted community dissatisfaction with public transport options in the local area so we wanted to do something to help veterans with
transport availability and support them and their families getting to and from medical appointments and supporting their health and wellbeing,” he said.
George Town RSL President Max Griffiths said many veterans, their family members and carers cannot drive, and buses are not always suitable due to timetables or mobility issues.
“This support vehicle will not only ensure our members get to and from their health appointments but will also support veterans attending the Veteran’s Hub once it is established in George Town,” he said.
George Town Lions Club Vice President (Projects) Craig Byrne said the club took pleasure in being part of the venture.
“By donating towards the cost of this vehicle, we honour our veterans and their service in a small but meaningful way,” Mr Byrne said.
• Bell Bay Aluminium General Manager Richard Curtis, George Town RSL Sub-Branch president Max Griffiths and George Town Lions Club vice-president (Projects) Craig Byrne with the new veteran support vehicle.
• Treenoner Dance Mob, at last year's event. Photo by Carmencita Palermo (QVMAG).
THE TENTH Mannalargenna Day Festival will be held on Tebrakunna Country at Cape Portland on December 7 with
New food van sites on menu
A NEW mobile food van policy has been proposed by Dorset Council to set out certain sites that vendors will be allowed to operate from on Council managed land.
Two sites at Derby Park on Main St, two sites at the Derby Trailhead carpark, two sites within the car park at Bridport’s Old Pier Beach, three sites on the Sideling Lookout, two within the car park at Northeast Park and two at Legerwood Park have been earmarked for use.
Community and Development Director
Teen twitchers make way to Weldborough
A FUNDRAISER is being held on Friday night for Leo Norman and Cezary Carmichael, both 19, who have spent their gap year bike-packing 14,000kms around Australia.
So far they have raised $130,000 to build a school in impoverished TimorLeste.
They also have a goal to see 700 Australian bird species before the end of the year and are currently at 658.
They recently finished cycling a 10-month lap of the mainland and are now in Tasmania .
An event will be held at Weldborough Hotel on Friday featuring music from The Derby Boys from 5.30pm - 8.30pm with a shuttle service running from St Helens and Derby. Contact the hotel for more details.
Rohan Willis said the new rules have been designed after the first review of the policy since 2019.
Additional operational requirements
“to reinforce a high standard trade conduct and minimisation of disruption to public areas where trade is being conducted” had been included in the new policy, he said.
Mobile food vendors would be permitted to trade from Monday to Friday (7am- 6pm), Saturday (8am6pm) and Sunday or a public holiday (10am-6pm).
The policy is a change from an original allowance for food vendors to trade from just two locations in Derby, with some limited scope for applications to trade elsewhere in the municipality at the discretion of the General Manager.
“We want to encourage new food business models to trade from our townships so that we can foster a more diverse and superior food service experience for ourselves and our visitors, continuing to distinguish our patch as a destination in which all business can thrive,” he said.
“Most importantly, we want Dorset residents to be the ones that take full advantage and prosper from the opportunities that mobile food vendor business investment offers.”
The new policy is on the Council’s website for community consultation before it will be considered for adoption next year.
Operations such as the Bridport Food Truck Park would not be covered by the policy as it is on private property and subject to different food registration processes.
Dorset joins in DAP Anger
Commissioner Wardlaw said
“This is particularly problematic for smaller councils like Dorset, where planning decisions need to reflect the unique priorities of our community.
“For Dorset, projects valued at just $2 million could now bypass council under the revised thresholds, despite their substantial local significance.
“Such a move undermines the principles of local accountability and risks sidelining the community’s voice in shaping the future of our area.
“While Dorset Council remains open to professional consultation and collaboration with the State Government, the lack of clarity and the overreach in this legislation is concerning.
“The focus should be on equipping councils with the resources and expertise required to enhance planning outcomes, not on eroding the capacity of councils to represent and advocate for their communities.”
Gutwein walks the talk
THE NORTH East Tasmania Chamber of Commerce is hosting former Premier Peter Gutwein as guest speaker for its final event for 2024.
Mr Gutwein will recap his most recent walk from Sydney to Canberra and detail how in June he raised more than $60,000 for the Migrant Resource Centre
during his walk from Burnie to Hobart.
The event is free to all current members and will be held on Monday, December 2, at the House Paddock commencing at 5.30pm.
RSVP via email chairman@netcc. org.au or text 0409 532 223 to register your interest.
LGAT President and Break O’Day Council Mayor Mick Tucker said there were long-overdue planning reform projects that should have been prioritised instead.
“This includes the long overdue update to the Regional Land Use Strategies, which are nearing 15 years old and critical to guiding local development and increasing certainty for developers,” Cr Tucker said.
“Despite the rhetoric from the Government, this Bill actually seeks to firmly put the politics into planning.
“Since last year we have been asking the State Government to proactively engage with local government on this issue, who are undeniably the experts in this area.
“Instead, the Premier has labelled our concerns as ‘self-interested Mayors’.”
The alternate assessment pathway allows certain types of development applications to be determined by a DAP.
The proposed Bell Bay Wind Farm and North East Wind development are already being assessed under the DAP
process as they were declared major projects by the Minister.
Other new development proposals deemed as discretionary applications can be referred to a DAP if it is for social and affordable housing, if valued over $2million in nonmetropolitan areas, if it could be significant for its area or the State, there are concerns about the planning authority’s technical expertise to assess the application or the development is likely to be controversial.
DAP decisions are final, with no right of appeal based on planning merit.
Planning Minister Felix Ellis has argued the change is about job creation and a “fair go” if a proposal meets the planning rules, with the aim of delivering more new homes.
“It will give the community and business the confidence they need to invest in housing and job-creation for all Tasmanians,” he said
To ensure
REGIONAL ROUNDUP
Flinders Island
BY MAYOR RACHEL SUMMERS
LAST WEEK, Flinders Island had the pleasure of hosting Kerry Vincent MLC, the new Minister for Infrastructure and Minister for Local Government. During his first visit to the island, we showcased several of Council’s Priority Projects, including the Airport runway lighting upgrade.
His visit highlighted how important it is for decision-makers from outside our community to experience firsthand both the challenges and the opportunities we face.
A big challenge is our isolation and last week I had the opportunity to represent the Council and our community at the Senate Select Committee on the Tasmanian Freight Equalisation Scheme.
Joining me was Magdalena SteffensBartrim, Chair of Flinders Island Business Inc., who spoke on behalf of the business sector.
We advocated for expanding the list of eligible items under the scheme, ideally covering all freight to and from Flinders Island, with particular emphasis on food, fuel, and building materials.
George Town
BY MAYOR GREG KEISER
WE ARE thrilled to announce the launch of the second Kinimathatakinta/George Town Art Prize.
Building on the incredible success of this year’s competition, we can’t wait to showcase even more of the amazing talent our local artists have to offer.
This Art Prize celebrates the vibrant and ever-evolving art scene within our municipality. It encourages artists to draw inspiration from their surroundings and engage deeply with their environment.
We also urged the inclusion of air freight in the scheme, as air transport is often our only viable option outside of the scheduled shipping service. Additionally, we called for the claims process to be simplified and made more user-friendly.
The Committee has concluded its hearings on 22 November, and we hope to see their recommendations soon.
On a positive note, the Flinders Island Food Network is making waves in the community, bringing together passionate individuals dedicated to promoting local food production and sustainability.
Founded as part of the Islander Way project, this network embodies the innovative, community-driven spirit that defines life on the island.
The initiative began by inviting community members to share their thoughts, feedback, and visions for local food production and supply. What emerged was a shared commitment to fostering selfsufficiency, resilience, and sustainability through the promotion of island-grown produce.
Every Saturday, the Food Network hosts a vibrant seasonal produce stall in Whitemark. This weekly event is a feast for the senses, offering fresh fruits and vegetables, seedlings, sourdough loaves,
By doing so, we hope to foster a stronger appreciation and connection to place, community, and creativity.
Entries close Monday,January 27.
There are four award categories (Major Acquisitive, Kanamaluka Photographic, Packing Room Prize and People’s Choice).
The 2024 George Town Christmas Carnival will bring festive cheer to Macquarie Street and Regent Square on Friday, December 6, from 3 pm.
This year’s event, themed An Aussie Christmas, promises a lively celebration with a Christmas Parade, Christmas carols, delicious food, market stalls, family-friendly activities, and live music featuring local artists.
pear paste, cakes, and other homemade delights. The stall has become a hub for locals to connect, support each other, and celebrate the abundance of the island.
In addition to the market, the group has developed a Seasonal Calendar tailored to Flinders Island, offering month-bymonth guidance on what to plant and when. This resource has been embraced by the community as a practical tool for cultivating local produce.
The Food Network also runs quarterly
To cap off the evening, enjoy a screening of Home Alone 2: Lost in New York.
Each year, the George Town Council celebrates the achievements and contributions of outstanding members of our community through the Australia Day Awards. These individuals and community events demonstrate extraordinary service every day within our communities and deserve to be recognised.
Categories include Citizen of the Year, Young Citizen of the Year, Community Event of the Year and Sportsperson of the Year.
Nomination details and forms are available via the George Town Council website.
Lilydale District Progress Association
BY PRESIDENT TONY NAAR
ONLY ELEVEN more sleeps until the Lilydale Christmas Carols Concert, from 3pm to 6pm on Sunday, December 8, at the Lilydale Bowls Club.
Last year about 450 people attended and this year’s event should be even better.
There will be lots of entertainment including from students at the Lilydale District School, food trucks, great raffle prizes and – of course –a visit from Santa!
The carols concert starts just after the monthly market ends at the Memorial Hall, so families can make a full afternoon of it. Entry is free and everyone is welcome.
Even closer than the carols is the re-opening of the Lilydale Swimming Pool, scheduled for next Sunday, December 1.
Over the past couple of months, the City of Launceston has been busy identifying and repairing the cause of the leak in the main pool and putting a new water supply and separate filtration system into the toddlers’ pool, which has also been resurfaced.
It will be the first time in several years that the toddlers pool will be open and it should be better than ever.
Council has also cleaned the pool surrounds, the change rooms and the shade awnings and repainted the main pool.
A new, free, electric barbeque on the grass
area between the pool and the creek should be popular with families this summer.
If you have never been to the Lilydale pool, please come and have a swim. It is open each afternoon, with longer hours on the weekend. It is a classic country pool of the sort that is all too rare any longer.
On a more negative note, recent media stories about issues at the Lilydale District School have caused a deal of consternation in the community.
The education system across Tasmania is under pressure, and it will take a lot of goodwill and some serious work by everyone involved to ensure that the Lilydale school can once again be seen as one of our community’s most valuable assets.
preserving classes, showcasing techniques to extend the life of seasonal harvests. Recent sessions have featured pears, lemons, and kimchi, and next month’s workshop will reveal the secrets to crafting the perfect Rhubarb Champagne.
New members are always welcome to join the network. Whether you’re an experienced grower or just starting your food journey, the Flinders Island Food Network offers opportunities to connect, learn, and contribute to a flourishing local food movement.
Break O’Day
BY MAYOR MICK TUCKER
I’M EXCITED to share highlights from a year full of challenges, achievements, and growth. The 2023-2024 Annual Report is now available online, offering a detailed look at what Council has been working on throughout the financial year.
If you’ve ever wondered what Council gets up to, this is your chance to dive in!
You can check it out at www. bodc.tas.gov.au
Submissions on the report are welcome and must be received in writing by 5 pm on Monday, December 2. Our Annual General Meeting will be held in the Council Chambers, at St Helens on Tuesday December 10 commencing at 5pm and everybody is welcome to attend.
It’s the most wonderful time of the year – so let’s celebrate and embrace the festive season. To get into the holiday spirit, head down to Portland Memorial Hall on Saturday, December 7, at 7pm for the St Helens Christmas
Carols. Bring a chair, a picnic, and a blanket, and enjoy a fun-filled evening of carols with family and friends!
Do you know someone making a difference in our community? Nominate them for an Australia Day Award! We’re looking for outstanding citizens of all ages, so if you know someone special, download a nomination form from our website or pick one up at the Council office. Council’s Community Funding Program is also open for applications. If your group has a project that will enhance your township or community amenities, we encourage you to apply before submissions close on February 24 2025.
As we wrap up another year, I just want to say to our community, Councillors, staff, and volunteers: thank you for your hard work, resilience, and support. You are what makes Break O’Day special.
Here’s to a safe and happy Christmas, and to another year of growth and community spirit in 2025. Together, we can achieve great things!
• George Town is preparing for its Christmas Carnival which includes a street parade.
• City of Launceston Councillor Andrew Palmer at the Lilydale Pool which will reopen next week.
• Ange Anderson and Libby McMahon from the Flinders Island Food Network.
Christmas is coming!
TINSEL IS being unravelled, stars are set to shine and local retailers are ready to break out some bargains as the Christmas spirit sets in.
Late Night Shopping will be held in Scottsdale next Friday, December 6, with many retailers in King St and Victoria St set to open their doors later than usual as people start purchasing their Christmas presents.
North East Chamber of Commerce
President Maria Branch encouraged the community to support the local shopping scene after a challenging year.
“Late Night Shopping has been a long tradition for the Scottsdale shopping district,” Ms Branch said.
“The night provides a great opportunity to catch up with family and friends, support and promote our local businesses and give back by shopping locally.
“Coming together as a community is important and sharing this shopping experience before Christmas highlights how special and united the residents of the North East are.”
The McCallum family and friends will be singing on the lawn in front of the Uniting Church from around 6pm.
Karen Rainbow is again coordinating some Christmas colour in the streets, with hundreds of dollars worth of tinsel to be hung by a group of families later this week.
“We are very blessed to have some
wonderful people in the community and businesses who donate towards the cost of buying the decorations to brighten up the streetscapes each Christmas,” Ms Rainbow said.
Dorset Council will engage a contractor to hang its stars along the street before the shopping extravaganza takes place.
One location already decked out in colour is the Mechanics’ Institute Hall which is set to play host to 18 market stall holders.
“We sold out within two hours of opening up the stall positions,” Hall
Treasurer Ally Mercer said.
“There is a mix of stall holders selling everything from Christmas cakes and puddings, soaps, art and crafts, homemade Christmas decorations, gift boxes for presents, jams and chutneys.
“It is all hand made by locals and it is wonderful that all the money spent stays local which is really important.”
The hall will be open from 4pm to 8pm and there will be a raffle with funds raised going towards the ongoing maintenance of the community facility.
Two stall holders ready to set up shop are Deanna Scott with her needle work as well as Michelle Clark with her pebble art.
Ms Scott has been busy creating fine doilies, knitted toys that have won her awards at various shows and her famous woollen socks regularly modelled around the community by
husband Bruce.
Ms Clark is a relative newcomer to the market scene after being inspired by a trip to the beach at Lulworth.
After collecting pebbles she “decided to do something with them” and so her business was born.
Since that beach trip in June 2021 she has created 219 masterpieces featuring items including broken shells, driftwood and dry foliage.
“I use anything that I can find that is the right shape and have made some custom pieces with all sorts of messages,” she said.
“This is my first year coming to markets after being encouraged to do it by my niece Adina Johnson who owns Splintered by Adina, which features timber chopping boards, wooden signs and knives.
“It is nice to spend time with her and learn along the way because there are so many talented makers in the community.”
The Lucky Shopper promotion is also in full swing with around $4000 prizes on offer – they are set to soon be displayed in the d&me window. Simply fill in the free entry forms located at participating stores when you make a purchase. Winners will be drawn on Monday, December 16.
A find the letters of Christmas and find Santa’s Reindeer competition is also underway, with entry forms available at the Scottsdale Shoe Shop and Cottage Bakery.
MINI DACHSHUND puppies, ONLY two females left, these gorgeous little sausage dogs have been vet checked, vaccinated and microchipped, they are ready for 'Summer Loving' and their forever homes. Contact 0455 225 562 for any enquiries.
BRIDPORT, 2 Bedroom unit, large back yard, not suitable for pets, 4 weeks bond and two weeks rent in advance. $300 per week, 12-month contract. Text Sharon 0427 335 405 or Alyce 0408 327 158.
Ringarooma Murals
Send your sketches or thoughts to Mr David Shaw, Ringarooma Post Office by December 10. Help brighten our street scape, the Tennis Court is for everyone!
Christmas closure dates
We will be closing on Wednesday, December 18, 2024, returning Monday, January 13, 2025. Our final edition for 2024 will be delivered and available on Thursday, December 19.
Annual General Meeting 2024
Members of the Scottsdale Football Club are invited to attend the Annual General Meeting of the club on Friday December 6th 2024, 7.30pm at the clubrooms. Financial members are eligible to vote. Any notices of motion to be with the secretary in writing by Thursday November 28th.
Election of patron and vice-patron
Notices of
Div 1 looms for SHS
SCOTTSDALE HIGH School has been promoted to Division One of the Northern High Schools Sports Association for interhigh athletics after an impressive display at St Leonards last week.
Scottsdale clinched overall first place in the division against schools including St Marys, Lilydale and Port Dalrymple with a team also coming over from Flinders Island.
The school’s year 7/8 team secured first place and the 9/10 team finished in third place, adding up to an overall win.
The result means the school has been promoted to division one and will in the future compete against bigger schools including Riverside, and Kings Meadows.
“The students showed great sportsmanship throughout the day, stepping up for events to fill in and cheering each other on,” a school spokesperson said.
MERRY CHRISTMAS
• Noah Hay, Lotti Wadley, Tara Lette, Leila-Jayne Atkins with the winning shield.
Scottsdale Div 3 atop ladder
SCOTTSDALE BOWLS
BY JAN FOSTER
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 21, was a beautiful day for bowls, with Scottsdale Division 1 heading to Invermay to play their away round on a glorious over warm day. Finding ourselves up against some of the top players in the North, we struggled against better opponents on the day only coming home with one win, but what a great win it was with our team comprising of Tony Guinta, Julie Keane, Arch Ranson and John Dennis heading into the game putting their heads down and bottoms up to take home a win on their rink against State players.
Their win was a 19 to 17 shot victory. What a sensational outcome it was. Team 2 comprising of Nerina, Cindy, Steve and Mike fought hard, losing 14 to 21 and Team 3 made up of Peter, Jan, Merv and Graeme were definitely out classed losing 8 to 39. Bad luck guys but everyone should not be disappointed because we all tried our best but it was not to be our day.
Division 4 were also away, heading Westbury way. Alas, they had a disappointing day going down 2 games
to 1 but Kerry Hayes’ team of Danny Donaldson, Mel Austin and Pat Bennett were winners on the day 22 to 14. Team 2 Barney Wise, Karen Gibson, Rob Sutton and Kath Ginn tried their best but lost 11 to 28 and team 3 also lost but tried their best all day going down 14 to 25 bad luck Chris, Kerrie, Brian and David.
Saturday, November 23, saw Div.1 travelling to Longford found the going tough, losing all three games to their opponents.
Team 1. Merv Chilcott, Cindy Walsh, Steve McMullan and skip Craig Bennett only just lost out on their game 20 to 23.
Team 2 comprising of Nerina Hansell, Helen Pola, Graeme Walsh and Mike Hansell were also out played 11 to 26.
Team 3 with players Tony Guinta, Arch Ranson, John Dennis and new skip Matt Slager had a tough day going down 12 to 25.
Our other two divisions both played at home and had mixed results. Division 3 played Kings Meadows and won two of their three games but came out winners overall 59 points to 52. These results have put Scottsdale Div 3 on top of the ladder above Cressy A.
Team 1 skipped by Tony Williams, Julie
Keane, Jan Foster and Robert Sutton won 21 to 14
Team 2. skipped by Chris Coates, Bill Coates, Pat Bennett and Peter LeFevre came home winners 24 to 20 and team 3 tried hard all day but missed out 14 to 18. The weather was a bit hot and muggy and David Ezzy, Kath Ginn, Kevin Coates and Kerry Hayes just found the going a little tough. Well done to all players Division 3.
Division 6 had a good day with one team up and one team down.
Team 1 Diane Williams, sub, Barney Wise and Trevor Jessup won 32 to 13 which brought an overall win on the day.
Our other team skipped by Sam Knight,
Lindsay Petterwood (how great was it to see Lindsay back on the bowling rink after a long period away) and Brian Walsh, almost got there but had a 14 to 19 loss.
Fantastic games at home with all games being played in a competitive and pleasant atmosphere.
Community Bowls starts this Wednesday night with a 5 for 5.30 start.
B.B.Q. on the night with sausages and hamburgers available at a very reasonable price, raffles and heaps of good fun.
Come along and watch if you like you might just decide that you would like to have a go at this game called bowls – it’s fun!
Bridport secures two points v Invermay
BY THE BRIDPORT WIZARD
BRIDPORT PREMIER team travelled to Invermay for its round 5 game and after a big last bowl by Captain Turtle we were able to come home with two points.
Captain Turtle's team of Swandog
BRIDPORT GOLF CLUB
SATURDAY NOVEMBER 23
STROKE/FINAL ROUND MEN’S CHAMPIONSHIPS
Friday Flappers: B Laird 21. Women's Stableford. Winner: L Noonan 38 c/b. R/Up: A Kent 38. Men Day's Event. Div 1 Winner: D Freeland 73 c/b. R/Up: X Nicholls 73 c/b K Groves. Div 1 Winner: K Russell 71. R/Up: D Etchells 72. M Cuthbertson 73, D Glover 73, M Taylor 74. NTP 6/15: D Freeland, 1/10: K Russell. Longest Putt O/Field 9/18: D
• A Grade Club Champion Raylene Taylor, B Grade Champion Mandy Hall and C Grade Champion Andy Kent.
Lethborg, Dixie Dixon, Oscar Nichols and himself played a good close game all match.
After a big last bowl from Captain Turtle on the last end he was able to get his team over the line to win by a shot. It was a good team effort by all involed.
Uncle Ed's team was having a close
game with Bec Van Asch's team until they decided to go long, which then upset the rhythm of Uncle Ed's team and they couldn't get back into the game. Uncle Ed was the best bowler in his team playing good bowls all game.
Dusty Monson’s team also struggled
SPORTS RESULTS
Freeland. Putting: C Hughes. 54 Hole Nett Aggregate over Championships: N Sutton 216.
Champions: A Grade: L Forbes-Ewan 234, B Grade: K Russell 276, C Grade: D Etchells 304.
WEDNESDAY NOVEMBER 20
STROKE/FINAL ROUND CHAMPIONSHIPS
Div 1 Winner: J Atkinson 70. Div 2 Winner: L Noonan 64. R/Up OTF: K Cuthbertson 71 c/b
R Taylor, M Bauld. NTP Div 1: 1/10: A Kent. NTP Div 2: 6/15: L. Noonan. Longest Putt
OTF: 9/18: K Cuthbertson. Putting: R Taylor 26. Men's Winner: K Russell 38. Croquet Results Long Shots: R Charlton, Je Bryan. Draw: J Binns
Championship Results A Grade: R Taylor 255, B Grade: M Hall 288, C Grade: A Kent 305. 54
Hole Nett Aggregate: A Kent 212. Putting Over Championship: R Taylor 80
SCOTTSDALE GOLF CLUB
SATURDAY - 23 NOVEMBER STABLEFORD
Men’s Winner - T Collins 38 c/b
Runner Up - AJ Heyes. Others - G Blackwell 37, L Freeland 36, C Styles 35, G Booth 35, R Shea 34, D Knight 34. Women’s Winner - J
Collins 34. R/Up - C Mackenzie 33 c/b T Hall NTP 1/10: J Krushka, 5/14: Rob Shea. Longest Putt - AJ Heyes.
MOORINA GOLF CLUB
SATURDAY NOVEMBER 23 STABLEFORD
Winner : L Mullins 37. R/Up: R Apted 36. T Taylor 34. NTP 3/12 L Rattray. Longest Putt 9/18 L Mullins.
RINGAROOMA GOLF CLUB 4 PERSON AMBROSE
Winners: S & W Burr, D & J Hayward 51.1/8. R/Up: K&L Barrett D &K Rowbottom 53.1/8. Third: D Reynolds, T Harper, L McDougall, C Fennell 54.5/8. Fourth: D & Z Bean, T Millwood, S Etchell 54.5. Fifth: D & D Walsh, M Cook, J Carins 54.5/8. NTP 1/10: T Bennett, 7/16: D Rowbottom, 8/17: S Etchell, 9/18: T Crichton.
NORTH EAST BASKETBALL UNION
Round 5 A Grade Kings and Cowboys draw 48-48, Brewers def Port Power 59-36, Wildcats def Fast Chargers 30-29, Swifts (win) Fire Stars (Forfeit). Round 5 B Grade Mavericks
to get into their game against Trace Stewart while Josh Glover had a good game playing in the lead's position for Dusty’s team.
Scores: Monson 8 lt T.Stewart 35, Walker 11 lt R.Van Asch 30, Churchill 19 def A. Donohue 18.
def Tropics 61-15, Trouts def Big Ballers 40-20 , Wild Boars def Warriors 56-34, Panthers def Vixens 48-13, Queens def Rim Rattlers 32-24.NEBU Leader Boards after 5 rounds Mens A 1. Brewers, 2. Kings, 3. Port Power, 4. Cowboys. Womens A 1. Wildcats, 2. Swifts, 3. Fire Stars, 4. Fast Chargers. Mens B 1. Wild Boars, 2. Mavericks, 3. Trouts, 4. Warriors, 5. Port Sharks, 6. Big Ballers, 7. Tropics. Womens B 1. Panthers, 2. Rim Rattlers, 3. Queens, 4. Vixens .
NEPC TRAINER OF THE YEAR CURRENT STANDINGS
Kent Rattray 58, Rohan Hadley 15, Wes Targett 5, Kate Macleod 4, Kyle Pratten 2, Max Wadley 1.
NEPC HORSE OF THE YEAR CURRENT STANDINGS Miki Sanz 13, Scarlet Place 10, Colby Sanz 9, Wild Rummy 9, De Goey 6, The Mighty Doc 6, Hez A Fake 5, Star Watching 4, Sunny Sanz 3, Ark Melody 2, Indianna Sanz 2, Joes Place 2, Grizzly Montana 1, Karalta Artemis 1.
• Robert Sutton, Div 3 bowler, keeps a close eye on his shot.
Monstars rule mixed netball
BY SARAH FORSYTH
THE NORTH Eastern Netball Association’s 2024 Social Spring Mixed Netball Roster has wrapped up, with the Grand Final played on Friday, 22 November.
Over nine rounds, nine teams competed in the roster, with Monstars finishing atop the ladder - closely followed by the reigning 2023 premiers The Opposition.
These two teams battled it out on Friday night for 2024 bragging rights for the best mixed netball side in the North East.
In front of a small crowd, the Grand Final
was played in humid conditions and brilliant sunshine.
A good game of netball was displayed, with athleticism from both the males and females a feature.
The Monstars led all game and even though The Opposition had an outstanding third quarter, the Monstars took out the shield by nine goals (31 – 22).
Thanks to Brogan Hayes, and Lucy and Gabby Partridge for organising the mixed netball roster, a fundraising opportunity for the Association along with providing a fun, social activity during the ‘off season’.
• 2024 Premiers ‘Monstars’ - Reid Mountney, Bree Mountney and Lucas Coote (back) with Tessa Coote, Paige Chorley, Deven Mountney and Abbey Chorley. Absent were Tarin Robinson, Joseph Robinson, Liam Bessell, Mikayla Binns and Mitchell Kay.
Summer safety boating priorities
STORM EASTLEY – RECREATIONAL BOATING OFFICER, MAST
SUMMER IS upon us – and MAST wants the Tasmanian boating population to enjoy the State’s waterways but also come home safely.
This summer, we will concentrate on four topics – Older Boaters, Paddling, Life Jackets and “Crossing the Line.”
Older People Boating Alone In the 23 years, prior to the introduction of compulsory wearing of life jackets, Tasmania recorded 146 boating fatalities. Since the mandate in 2001, there have been 63 recreational boating fatalities. Although this is an improvement, even one fatality is too many.
Whilst the life jacket compliance rate is around 94% on boats under six metres in length, there is a concerning increase in the fatalities among people boating alone.
Of the 18 solo boating fatalities since 2001, most were over 60 years old and in water temperatures below 15 degrees Celsius, where cold-water immersion effects are significant. Many of these incidents occurred mid-week.
Males make up the majority of these fatalities, with 61 men and two women losing their lives. We want older boaters to be extra careful on the water – tell someone where you’re going and, if possible, take a mate.
Paddling Safety Paddling continues to increase in popularity across Tasmania, with kayaks, canoes, and paddle boards being used on the waterways day and night.
Mandatory safety equipment includes a life jacket. A Level 50 or Level 50S life jacket is required in Smooth and Sheltered Waters, and a Level 100 is required when paddling in Coastal Waters.
A tethering device must also be used
when paddling more than 200m offshore. The method of attachment may vary depending on the type of craft you are using.
Paddle craft must have a white strobe or all-round light with 360-degree visibility.
These lights must be used when paddling between sunset and sunrise and at times of reduced visibility.
Unlike lights worn on the front or back of the paddler’s body, a 360-degree light ensures visibility to all other watercraft.
Similar to cyclists on the road, paddlers must remain vigilant for other craft on the water, especially at night or in reduced visibility. Incorporating reflective tape on your clothing and on your paddle tips enhances your visibility on the water.
Life Jackets As previously stated, 94% of Tasmanian boaters wear life jackets –which is world-leading.
However, inflatable jackets require
regular servicing and MAST data shows a very low rate of servicing. Remember - it’s only a life jacket if it works.
Crossing the Line On land, we are in known territory, but when we cross the line into the water, we enter the unknown.
Each time a boater crosses that line, they need to make the right decisions to return safely.
When you are the skipper of your boat, you are responsible.
Is everyone capable of doing the 30-Second Challenge?
This involves making sure your lifejacket is on, you can access your flares, your EPIRB is ready to deploy and you can send a Mayday call all within 30 seconds.
Check out the MAST website for the 30-second challenge video. By following these steps, MAST believes Tasmanians can enjoy their time on the water and come home safely.
New Stripey style catches on
GET FISHING
BY NICK MARTIN
THERE’S A lot of action out on the water as the sea temperatures start to warm up.
Striped Trumpeter is being caught anywhere from the North-East all the way down the East Coast. Look for exposed off shore reefs in 60m-180m depths as there has been fantastic bait build up that the fish are certainly attracted to at present.
There are multiple schools of fresh salmon inundating waterways and they are a good bait as are squid, which I will write more about shortly.
Many people are adapting to a new phenomenon style of catching Stripey – for the last year there has been a move to jigging to get a reaction bite from the fish.
If you lift jigs (weighing between 80g and 200g) nice and slowly up and down, it seems as though they can’t resist them.
Chill them down as soon as they are caught to ensure a long shelf life and firmer and fresher product.
I am hearing a few reports of Kingfish moving quickly with the incoming schools of Australian Salmon and Mackerel around the coastal shoreline and I am waiting for them to fire up.
They are generally caught anywhere around
fast-moving water with a bit of depth.
Whiting and other summer fish like Trevally and Yellow-eye mullet are also starting to get on the go as waterways warm up – they’ve been in deeper water to spawn in the cool and as it warms up they move back in shore and feed like mad.
They can be caught anywhere around the coast line in 3-5m water using fresh squid.
But it is squid that are still on fire. They are readily accessible throughout the North Coast but as the water temperatures increase they will slow down considerably.
They’ve been easy to catch because they are defending the egg mops. You will find them sheltered around inshore sea grass beds.
• Nick Martin with a squid caught last week.
Clover claims triathlon title
RINGAROOMA’S CLOVER Viney has tackled her first triathlon and walked away with a win.
She was one of 62 excited and slightly nervous students from Bridport, Ringarooma and Scottsdale Primary who represented the North-East at the Northern Tasmanian Primary Schools Triathlon in Devonport last Friday.
PE Teacher Narelle Genge said all students showed amazing courage and resilience as they completed the triathlon as an individual or a team or in both categories - many for the very first time and having not ever seen a triathlon.
“The NE is very proud of all our students for having a go to complete this event,” she said.
Clover claimed the win in the grade three girls event – up against more than 100 other students from across the North and North-West.
Lewis Moore from Bridport Primary competed in a similar sized field to finish third in the Grade 4 boys event.
Clover is no stranger to athletic success, as the reigning Little Athletics Tasmania 800m champion in her age group.
While she is not a very strong swimmer according to mum Hollie, Clover used the run to the bike
• Clover Viney from Ringarooma Primary School won the Girl’s Grade 3 Triathlon at Devonport last Friday. transition to gain some placings before moving into first place on the ride and maintaining a strong lead during the run leg.
Her sister Lexie finished sixth overall in the grade five girls individual triathlon event.
Clover backed up her triathlon success with a win in the 800m and long jump at the Little Athletics Tasmania State meet on Saturday at St Leonards.
She will be preparing for the State Championship in March competing for the North East Little Athletics Centre.
• Lewis Moore running down the home straight during his individual triathlon.