Seagull sensation Golden celebration
Board of Inquiry breached procedural fairness
BY RACHEL WILLIAMS
LOCAL GOVERNMENT Minister
Nic Street has demanded the twomember Board of Inquiry panel fix a procedural fairness faux pas, admitting a major consultation error that could impact the legality of the report if not addressed.
The panel failed to consult with the Dorset Council as an administrative “body corporate” during the submission review process of the draft findings and recommendations.
The error is going to further extend the Board of Inquiry, which has already left the community without elected officials for the last 12 months.
Andrew Walker and Andrew Paul are undertaking the Inquiry with secretariat support from the Office of Local Government within the Department of Premier and Cabinet.
It followed an investigation and report by the Director of Local Government into a series of complaints about the actions, decisions and behaviours of the
Council, councillors, and senior council employees.
The Board was asked to “investigate serious allegations of systematic and widespread statutory non-compliance and failings of good governance at Dorset Council”.
Mr Walker and Mr Paul have been asked why they would not think it appropriate to consult with the Council given the controversial history and Terms of Reference. A response was not provided to the North-Eastern Advertiser by its print deadline.
“It is a disappointing situation but a necessary decision to send the report back to the Board,” Mr Street said.
“It is a question for the Board itself as to why they made the decision to not provide the draft report to Council as a body corporate.
“Once we became aware I took legal advice and questioned why they hadn’t done so, and they conceded in the end they probably made an error.”
Suspended Mayor Greg Howard said the admission was an “absolute embarrassment
to the Minister and the Board of Inquiry because the Council collectively has had no input whatsoever in the entire process”.
Mr Street said he had no regrets about calling for the investigation which has no guarantee of an end date. He did, however, thank the Dorset municipality for its patience.
“At no stage have I regretted the decision to initiate the Board of Inquiry and I think it’s a worthwhile and necessary process,” Mr Street said.
“I have full confidence in the Board and the process notwithstanding the issue we have had which we are rectifying.”
If there is a material change in the final draft report as a result of the new consultation with the Council, impacted parties will then have another 14 days to respond.
Commissioner Andrew Wardlaw tabled the communication from Mr Street at Monday’s Council meeting, confirming the Council had been unable to “adequately address findings” that were to be considered by the Minister.
“The Council did advise the Minister
that, despite its concerns, it believed it was in the best interests of the community that the Inquiry be brought to completion,”
Commissioner Wardlaw said.
“While it is unexpected that the Minister would refer the report back to the Board, Council welcomes the opportunity to address the report, directly with the Board of Inquiry, and provide informed commentary to ensure natural justice is upheld.”
Commissioner Wardlaw said Council looked forward to engagement with the Board in a “timely manner”.
Mr Street said he would “absolutely expect it to be wrapped up” before the end of 2024, but “preferably well before that.”
He would not say if the recommendations would result in a permanent sacking of councillors or whether any criminal charges would be pursued.
He committed to releasing the full final report if his legal advice deemed that appropriate.
“If I can release it in full, I will release it in full,” Mr Street said.
Proudly brought to you by SCOTTSDALE LIONS CLUB DO YOU REMEMBER?
WE SERVE
10 Years Ago – August 20, 2014
Bridport Bridge works on track.
Works to replace the Bridport Bridge were underway, with construction of the Bailey Bridge completed and work expected to start on the bridge itself soon after. The bridge was constructed in 1959 and while it has served the Bridport community well, it was not up to the task expected of public infrastructure in 2014. The original three span bridge also has some long-term structural issues that can’t be repaired. It was also non-compliant to standards relating to weight capacity and the standard of guard rails. Its current rating is 33 tonnes, which would not have coped with the expected B-double truck traffic to Southern Shipping and the Clovelly Dairy development at the time.
20 Years Ago – August 18, 2004
Tas Rail pulls out of North-East. TasRail’s search for increased freight in and out of the North-East proved fruitless, and from October 1 it ceased to operate on the Launceston to Scottsdale line. TasRail was freighting 60,000 tonnes on the North-East line. Chief Executive Neil McKinnon said he regretted the decision to pull out of the region but attempts to open more options for the company had not been successful. The infrastructure will not be pulled up, and Mr McKinnon said if opportunities in the future appeared, TasRail could quickly re-establish a service. Passenger services which have operated on an occasional basis will also cease because TasRail has only maintained the line for freight trains.
50 Years Ago – August 23, 1974
World flag arrives from England. North-Eastern C.W.A members were set to welcome the Flag of the Associated Country Women of the World when it arrives in Scottsdale. The flag is due to arrive in Tasmania from England and will begin its state tour from Hobart. It was being brought to publicise the triannual conference of the association to be held in Perth, Western Australia. The flag would be on display at the C.W.A hall at 10:30 and officials had extended the invite to all interested parties who wanted to see the flag as it was probably going to be the opportunity as it may never come back to Tasmania or the North-East region again.
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
RAIL TRAIL USAGE
This is a response to Jeff Jennings’ argument (14/8/2024) that "very few people use the rail trail".
Since 2019, I have used the rail trail a minimum of six days a week for 46 weeks per year, and three days a week the remaining six weeks, from Scottsdale, Tonganah and the Billycock, dependent upon my work schedule. This equates to
294 days every year.
Over the years, I have met literally hundreds of others on the rail trail. For example, over winter, I see 2-6 people (average of four) every time I use the Scottsdale section, and 4-10 (average of seven) in warmer months. Given that this self-reported data only captures a 1-3 hour period per day, the total daily figure for the Scottsdale end alone is
A man of the trees
HISTORY REMEMBERED
JAMES MEMORY Firth was born in Macedon, Victoria in 1884. He married Georgina McIntosh in 1913 and they had three children. Aged in his late 30s, and with a promising career in the forestry industry, he came to Scottsdale in 1921 to take up the appointment of Forestry Officer. The Tasmanian Forestry Act had only just been passed, in 1920, and the Forestry Department created in 1921, so James was one of their first employees.
Soon after his arrival he reached an agreement with the North-East Axemen’s Association to help protect local forests. The Association recognised that practising woodchopping in forests was damaging valuable timber, and that it was in their interests to work with the Forestry Department to preserve the forests for the future.
James and Georgina’s fourth child, Betty, was born at Scottsdale in 1923, and James became trusted and respected in the area. In 1931 when the Scottsdale Golf Club was formed he advised the
club on the planting of their trees. In 1933 the Governor-General, Sir Isaac Isaacs, visited Scottsdale and planted a tree in the grounds of the N. E. S. M. Hospital (as part of four trees to represent the Municipalities of Scottsdale, Lilydale, Ringarooma and Portland). J. M. Firth provided the trees for the planting.
In 1933, following a reorganisation of the Forestry Department, he was promoted to Divisional Inspector and given responsibility for the whole of the north of Tasmania. As a result of this promotion the Firth family left Scottsdale and moved to Launceston.
In 1938 he assisted in a local scheme to plant 100 ornamental trees along the road from the bottom of the Sideling into Scottsdale, including scarlet oaks, Lombardy poplars and weeping willows, with plans for the avenue to eventually extend beyond Scottsdale.
The Warden at the time, H. G. Salier, was a big fan of trees – he wanted this area to be beautiful
likely much higher. As such, I cannot understand Mr Jennings’ statistics or conclusion. I do, however, agree that, "a proper assessment of usage" would be useful.
Finally, I would like to thank the Rotary volunteers who selflessly give their time to maintain the rail trail for all of its many users.
Jane Baker, Legerwood
• James Firth.
and prosperous, with Municipal plantations, school plantations and shelter belts.
In later years James Firth was transferred to Hobart and given the title Chief Inspector of Forests. He died in Hobart in 1966 at the age of 81. According to the local history book, Bygone Branxholm, published in 1983, an area at Warrentinna was dedicated after his death when his ashes were scattered there.
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. The Society is recording and archiving Dorset’s local historical information and can be contacted via their Facebook page.
Scottsdale Show build up
PREPARATIONS ARE well underway for the 119th Scottsdale Show, which will be held on Friday, November 15 and Saturday, November 16.
The North-Eastern Agricultural & Pastoral Society President Alice Hall said applications are now open for trade stalls at the show, welcoming all new and
returning exhibitors.
“Anyone and anything is welcome, as we would love to showcase more diversity at this year’s show,” she said.
“We are loooking for both indoor and outdoor exhibitors. Food vendors, coffee, hot drinks, cold drinks, machinery, clothing, nick-nacks, local businesses and other trade businesses.”
“We’d also invite any entertainers or other interested parties to get in touch if they think they’d have something interesting for us.”
You can contact organisers via email secretary@scottsdaleshow.org.au for more details.
NORTH EASTERN EVENTS CALENDAR 2024
August 30
• Scottsdale Senior Social Club, Northbourne Hall, from 1:30pm
August 30 – September 1
• Flinders Island Running Festival Flinders Island
September 7
• Bridport Village Market Bridport, 9:30am – 1:00pm
September 13-15
• NETAC Golden Anniversary Scottsdale Mechanics’ Institute Hall
September 14-15
• Rail Trail Run and Ride Scottsdale
September 19
• Lions Club of Bridport Charity Golf Day Barnbougle Dunes, tee off 8:00am
September 27
• Scottsdale Senior Social Club, Northbourne Hall, from 1:30pm
October 5
• Bridport Village Market Bridport, 9:30am – 1:00pm
October 8
• Garden Walk, Scottsdale Bowls Club RSL Scottsdale, from 9:30am
October 12
• 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
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 7
• Mannalargenna Day Festival
10th Anniversary Tebrakunna Country – Cape Portland, North East Tasmania
December 15
• Lions Club of Bridport Carols by the Sea Bridport Village Green, from
Golden milestone for NE art festival
THE NORTH East Tasmania Art and Craft Festival is celebrating its golden anniversary this year with a colourful spring spectacularSomething Old, Something New.
The festival has exhibited more that 6,000 pieces of art with estimates of 12,000 items of craftwork from all over the State during the last 49 editions.
The event first started in 1973 to raise money for the local entrant of the Miss Tasmania Pageant.
Organiser Ally Mercer said it was such a success it stayed on Scottsdale’s events calendar.
“Tom and Pam Harper got the annual event going. From then Gwen and Kevin Heuston, Rowena Simons, Kay Simons, Doug and Dawn Kershaw, Sue Johnston, Scott Partridge, Wyverne Goss, Heather White, Phyllis Martin, Ruth Timperon, Lynice Thirkell, Audrey Robinson, Jill Ranson, and Norma and Lindsay Petterwood put in decades of work to make the annual festival such a great North-East event,” she said.
In 2021, the original committee folded and the Mechanics’ Hall Committee stepped in to run
the event, which will this year run from Friday, September 13 to Sunday, September 15 from 9am to 4pm.
Mechanics’ Hall Chair Craig Briggs said he hoped a change in date would encourage more attendees.
“This year it’s celebrations all round. Our theme is all about those celebrations. Something Old references our Golden Anniversary and Something New is the change of timing for the event from winter to spring,” he said.
Submissions for entry close at 6pm, Friday September 6 if they are being collected at a nominated collection depot or by Saturday, September 7, if delivered directly to the Mechanics’ Hall.
The overall art prize is worth $3000 with a photographic prize valued at $1000 and the Viewers’ Choice winner will receive $750.
Entries will be judged by QVMAG curator Ashley Bird, and Arts Tas curator Melissa Smith.
The exhibition will be officially opened at 6pm Thursday, September 12.
For more details visit netacfestival.com.au
Flinders fatality a tragedy
A
The local Tasmania Fire Service volunteer was struck by an on-duty police officer at around 9pm. He was walking on the road, in a 100km zone about 5km from Lady Barron, when the incident occurred.
It is understood he had been at a 60th birthday party on the night of the incident and was walking towards Whitemark
Mayor Rachel Summers said it was a “really shocking tragedy” for the small island.
“He has been a big part of our community as a volunteer firefighter and a business owner and he was very well known and a
really great guy all round,” Cr Summers said.
“There was a really festive atmosphere on the island with the birthday party and the Wilderfeast event and this has brought everyone back to reality.”
Cr Summers said the police officer had been working on the island since May and had previously provided relief.
Tasmania Police Assistant Commissioner Adrian Bodnar said he had been part of the organisation for 31 years and was a “very experienced and respected member”.
“This is a tragedy involving two people who worked together in a small community and no doubt this will have an impact on those involved for some time to come,” Assistant Commissioner Bodnar said.
“Our emergency services community is really hurting... and our thoughts and prayers are with the man’s family, loved ones, colleagues and the entire Flinders Island community and also with the police officer involved and his family.
“This is a traumatic event and a very sad set of circumstances.”
A full professional standards inquiry is underway.
Crash investigators were flown over on the night along with additional police resourcing, while the police officer involved was flown off the island and is receiving “wrap around” support services.
Assistant Commissioner Bodnar and Cr Summers said the weather conditions were
quite dark on the night.
“It had been raining all afternoon and there was a lot of cloud overhead which made it quite dark,” Cr Summers said. Investigators are piecing together how the tragedy unfolded, including why the victim was walking on the road
“The police officer was doing what we want them to do, out patrolling the community, he wasn’t responding to any particular job, he wasn’t engaged in any urgent duty driving, he was driving according to the road conditions at the time according to the reports,” Assistant Commissioner Bodnar said.
A report is being prepared for the coroner.
Court adjournments in murder, arson cases
THE SCOTTSDALE man who allegedly murdered a Launceston teenager, whose body was found in the bush at Nabowla last year, has again had his case adjourned in Launceston Magistrates Court.
Christopher Mark Jordan appeared via video link from Risdon Prison last Tuesday, August 13, and was represented by lawyer Mark Doyle on behalf of barrister Greg Richardson.
Mr Jordan has been charged with the murder of 14-year-old Shyanne-Lee Tatnell, who went missing on April 30, 2023 and was found after one of the biggest police searches in July, 2023.
Mr Doyle told the court that Mr Richardson had recently received final material relevant to the case and was “consolidating those”.
Magistrate Ken Stanton adjourned
the case for a preliminary proceeding application at 2.15pm on Tuesday, September 10 and remanded Jordan in custody.
Representatives from Mr Jordan and Miss Tatnell’s family were in court for the appearance.
Meanwhile, the man accused of a $200,000 house fire at Branxholm also had his case adjourned.
Jacob Heatlie Johnston appeared via a phone hook-up. The court was told Mr Johnston now lives in Hobart.
The court was told his defence team was waiting on disclosure for part of the Tasmania Fire Service report into the April incident.
He will reappear on October 8 at 2.15pm for a preliminary proceeding application.
2024 COMMUNITY GRANTS PROGRAM
Applications are now open for grants up to $3000 to help Tasmanian-based community organisations and not-forprofit groups with projects that will have a positive impact on our community.
Applications close on Wednesday, September 11.
For more information and to apply, visit: bellbayaluminium.com.au/community-grants
• Johnny McKay, Ally Mercer and Rhonda Baldwin preparing for the golden anniversary of the North East Tasmania Art and Craft Festival next month.
60-YEAR-OLD Lackrana man killed on Flinders Island on Saturday evening is being remembered as a well-respected community member.
Barnbougle unit concern
• The site of the Barnbougle unit being questioned by locals.
Photo by Jeff Jennings on Saturday, August 17.
DORSET COUNCIL and Crown Land would investigate an allegation that the new Barnbougle accommodation development was being built too close to the sand dunes.
But the owner of the property, Richard Sattler, said there was “no comment necessary” after being criticised for the works.
Lou Brooker from Bridport asked questions in public question time at Monday night’s meeting, and tabled drone photos taken by fellow Bridport resident Jeff Jennings to highlight their concerns.
They believe there is a discrepancy between the plans approved at the September 2023 Council meeting and the position of the works being carried out.
She questioned the proximity of the first of 20 four-bedroom units being built to the “toe” of the sand dune and whether Crown Land was being impacted by the development.
She also queried clearing of vegetation in front of the development.
Dorset Council Director Community and Development
Rohan Willis said no one should jump to conclusions about where Mr Sattler’s boundary started, as there had been survey works undertaken.
Mr Willis said he had liased with the Crown Land department after the issue was initially raised by Mr Jennings late last week and investigations would take place.
Bridport Caravan Park profit
BRIDPORT CARAVAN Park last year recorded income of more than $1 million for the first time ever, despite last minute changes to its management structure following caretaker criticism.
Dorset Council received the unaudited financial result for 2023/24 at Monday’s meeting, with a surplus of $320,000 recorded.
Relief caretakers were rushed into the role before summer and different caretakes who were contracted from December 2023 to July 2024, have since accepted employment with Council in the roles of Park Caretaker and Office Supervisor.
They continue to be supported by casual administration and amenities cleaning staff and receive assistance with grounds maintenance
predominantly during peak period
Corporate Services Acting Director Lauren Tolput said that despite an increased cost associated with employment, the expenditure was offset by higher quality customer service and patron management and resulted in a more efficient and sustainable model.
In other caravan park news, the new amenities block near Eastmans Beach is due for completion in two weeks while other improvements planned for the facility this year include cabin upgrades, planning for a camp kitchen near Goftons Beach as well as internal road repairs.
Officers are also commencing a review of annual sites at the park, which is expected to soon go out for public consultation.
World Trail to build anniversary track
WORLD TRAIL must build the new $125,000 trail proposed for Blue Derby otherwise the funding from international biking giant Shimano would be withdrawn.
At Dorset Council’s meeting on Monday night, Commissioner Andrew Wardlaw was asked to exempt the development from the Council’s typical procurement process which involves requesting quotes.
Derby was the first area chosen internationally for the Shimano Trail Born Fund grant, which also includes a $30,000 contribution to the new trail’s maintenance over three years.
Council was told there were extenuating circumstances to facilitate the procurement exemption, because the grant money was contingent on Shimano’s right to nominate its preferred contractor.
During public question time, suspended Councillor Merv Chilcott queried the process of not obtaining quotes, questioning whether that process historically had been a factor in the establishment of the Board of Inquiry.
Commissioner Wardlaw would not comment on the Inquiry but confirmed the funding would not be forthcoming if council chose a different trail builder.
“I have been provided with legal advice in relation to the Code and procurement and I am satisfied the reasons for exemption are satisfactory,” he said.
The new build will be 1.37km intermediate trail using a “bended earth” formula and is set to
be open in time for Derby’s 10-year anniversary of becoming a mountain bike mecca.
The project is still subject to approval across land managed by Sustainable Timber Tasmania. But the Blue Derby Foundation has been put on notice to get its books in order, with the tabling of Blue Derby’s quarterly report.
Commissioner Wardlaw requested the foundation’s 2023/2024 financial statements be produced to council when available and asked them to review its current budget to ensure a $90,000 trail maintenance contribution to Council was accounted for.
It follows the revelation of an unaudited loss of $794,000 to Dorset Council in 2023/24 for the trails.
General Manager John Marik said the Council’s loss included $234,000 for the first comprehensive refurbishment of the iconic Blue Tier Mountain Bike Trail since its opening, along with a $67,000 year-over-year increase in employment costs.
He defended the loss against a community injection of more than $20 million in multiplier effects from added visitors spending in the region.
He also highlighted the attraction of more than 500 of the world’s best in the business to attend the Professional Trail Builders Conference, which has been locked in for the town from December 9-11, 2025.
“A lot of other governments ask the question of ’how do we get a Derby in our backyard’ so I think we are pretty lucky,” Mr Marik said.
Town gets behind Seagulls in exciting win
• Jess Burke and Kristen Moore joined more than 1000 people to watch Bridport in the first NTFA final held at the venue.
• Adam Abraham, Jobe Beeson, Tom Moore, Linc and Beau Gerke, Michelle Beeson, Wayne Churchill, Belinda Gerke, Cara Howlett and Deanne Moore.
• Barb, Richie and Anastasia McBride and Lucy, Sophie and Frankie Glasson.
• Zac, Eli and Geoff Saville.
• Katie Hall, Danica Beeson, Amelia Barnett and Alyssa Brown with Jock Johnson and Declan Worker.
• Rubicon Turner, Di and Dion Turner and Annie Gillespie with Ash, Tori, Taj, Julie and Jason Gillespie, Jackie Williams, Juanita and Sean Coates and Brett Williams.
• Sharon Burr, Melissa Nunn and Pia Whelan.
Doctor shortage shuts practice
BRIDPORT’S OCHRE Medical Centre
is again closed this week due to a doctor shortage.
It’s the second time this month that the practice has been forced to shut its doors.
An Ochre spokesman said the clinic closed for three days during the week commencing August 5 and would not open this week, starting August 19.
Doctors practising in Bridport provide around 60-80 consultations per week when the clinic is open.
“We are doing our best to share doctors across Scottsdale and Bridport. If Bridport does need to close for any days, we give patients the choice of seeing a doctor at Scottsdale inperson or having a telephone or video consultation,” the spokesman said.
“We are hoping not to have to close Bridport for any more days/weeks after this week. We currently have a couple of gaps in September, but there is time to fill them. We have already booked
enough GPs to ensure full coverage for every week from October onwards.”
The spokesman said Ochre clinics at Scottsdale and Bridport were staffed by a combination of permanent doctors, locums and doctors-intraining.
“We have at least two new doctors starting next year who are already confirmed, but we could easily accommodate, and would love, an additional doctor or two.”
The spokesman said the National GP shortage was an ongoing systemic issue and asked the community to help where possible, especially with cancellations.
“If we don’t get sufficient warning of a cancellation, it can be very difficult for us to give that appointment to somebody else.”
Seventy five patients booked and did not turn up to appointments in July, according to a Facebook post by the centre.
Waterslide woes
SCOTTSDALE AQUATIC
Centre’s two 4m waterslides are being replaced under warranty due to a manufacturing error.
Aquatic Centre Manager Jane Kilburn said the fibreglass sections of the existing waterslides were found to have been compromised over time due to an error in manufacturing.
Once identified, Australian Waterslides & Leisure Pty Ltd (AWL) quickly recognised the problem and took immediate measures to repair and then ultimately replace the fibreglass sections of the waterslides, she said.
“The replacement slides will be the same, except being new they are bright and shiny and with a fresh layer of polish are ready for some serious water slide action,” Ms Kilburn said.
Work is expected to be finished within the next few weeks.
• Council maintenance staff and AWL representatives are replacing the two 4m waterslides at the Scottsdale Aquatic Centre.
Major Project declaration for windfarm
A 28-TURBINE wind farm mooted for near George Town has recently received Major Project declaration from the Tasmanian Minister for Planning.
The Equis Bell Bay Wind Farm project received the status under the Land Use Planning and Approvals Act 1993.
An independent panel will now be assembled by the Tasmanian Planning Commission to prepare the assessment criteria required by the Major Projects approval pathway.
The project has also been referred as a controlled action under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act) by the Australian Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW).
The development it located within
the proposed Northeast Tasmania Renewable Energy Zone.
If progressed, it would have installed capacity of up to 224MW and a battery energy storage system (BESS) of 100MW/400MWh – enough electricity to power up to 104,000 homes.
An Equis spokesperson said this site was selected due to its strong wind resource and its connection proximity to the George Town Substation, which would produce a competitive levelised cost of electricity.
The spokesperson said Equis was committed to an ongoing and transparent local community engagement process.
“We look forward to sharing project information with the community as our studies progress and engaging with them on their feedback,” the spokesperson said.
TRENCHING, EXCAVATION AND SYSTEM INSTALLS
Ditch
excavator
•
The site of the proposed Bell Bay Wind Farm, from the Equis website.
CARPET cleaning and lounges. Phone Felicity on 0428 226
MORNING Kindling, available at Scottsdale Men’s Shed. Monday, Wednesday and Fridays, 10.00am till 2.00pm. Now also available at Ag Warehouse, Scottsdale, proceeds to Hospital Auxiliary.
3 FEMALE Jack Russell x Border Collie puppies, wormed, $200 each, contact 0409 096 293
DEATH NOTICE
WENN, Dylan Mark
Passed away peacefully at home 5.8.24. Much loved and devoted partner to Kiah, treasured and loving dad to Kaelah. You left us oh so quickly, our hearts are broken. You will forever be loved and never to be forgotten. Love your girls, Kiah and Kaelah.
WENN, Dylan Mark
Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend the funeral service for Dylan Mark Wenn to be held at the Franklin Grove Centre, 502 Hobart Road, Youngtown on Friday 23rd August 2024 commencing at 10:30 am. For those wishing to view the service via livestream, please visit: www.finneyfunerals.com.au/funerals
$300 winners in the recent draw for the club lottery
Zali Stevens & Will Reeve, Henny Gofton, Eva James, Graeme & Jean Hall.
RETURN THANKS
Wayne Hayes
It meant a lot to us to hear how Wayne touched the lives of so many. Thank you to Simon from Parkside Funerals. You helped us make the celebration of Wayne’s life special.
BUSINESS FOR SALE
Rent-A-Bag
Small Rubbish and Garden Waste Collection Business
Established in North East Tasmania and based in Bridport, Rent-A-Bag specialises in small rubbish and garden waste collection services.
The business operates with a reliable Nissan UD truck equipped with a tailgate lifter, registered under a MR truck classification with a 10 tonne capacity.
Key Features:
• Extensive inventory including bags, frames, and over 75 wheelie bins (approximately 150 in total).
• Servicing major clients including golf courses, hospitality venues, supermarkets, pharmacies, and local residents.
• Flexibility to set your own hours with opportunities for expansion.
Services Offered:
• Regular weekly, monthly, and annual waste collections tailored to customer needs.
Opportunities for Growth:
• Potential to increase service offerings or expand geographically.
Ideal Buyer: Ideal for an individual or family seeking to buy an established business in a thriving regional location with the ability to expand and set their own hours.
Price: $75,000 ono. - Price includes inventory (bags, frames, wheelie bins) and the Nissan UD truck with tailgate lifter.
For further details or to arrange a confidential discussion, please contact Tim Gillespie on 0400 508 774.
Ringarooma Cypress Memorial Tree Avenue | Scheduled Maintenance
Council have engaged a suitably qualified contractor to undertake the maintenance required to the Ringarooma Cypress Memorial Tree Avenue, located on the approach to the Ringarooma town boundary.
Works have been scheduled for Thursday, 29 August 2024, with motorists advised that one lane of traffic will be closed whilst the maintenance is undertaken, with some delays. Please abide by all traffic management signage and instructions if travelling in the area. The scheduled maintenance is subject to favourable weather conditions.
JOHN MARIK General Manager
Sloths send Frogs hopping
HOCKEY REPORT
BY LAURA HILL
THE FIRST game started with the elimination round as Frogs faced Sloths. Both teams came out strongly, testing each other as they fought to gain the advantage.
Frogs’ Byron Atkins got the ball into the goal circle and found his mark scoring the first goal. Byron backed up his goal minutes later with another, giving Frogs a healthy lead.
Sloths’ Damien Wilson was kept busy moving the ball down the field as Frogs pushed returning pressure.
His efforts were rewarded getting the ball to teammate Grant Haywood who
scored. Half time saw Frogs in the lead 2-1. Kerry Kershaw moved into attack for the Sloths, working with her team into position to level the score. Frogs’ Andrew Hill had some big runs up the side of the field supported by his team. Frogs had pushed in the final minutes earning the opportunity at a close attempt at goal and creating a wall to keep the ball in their attack. The push was defended and the game ended with Sloths ahead 3-2, sending the Frogs hopping out of the season.
The second game had Devils competing against Pythons. Devils’ Daegan Young and Lochie Bowerman worked together through the midfield to get the ball down towards Pythons’ defence. Their ball was
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Briefing of Decisions made at the Council Meeting held on 19 August at the Council Chambers.
• Tabled correspondence from the Minister for Local Government, the Hon. Nic Street MP relating to the Dorset Council Board of Inquiry Report, with the Commissioner providing a statement in response from Council.
• Agreed, by absolute majority, to exempt the procurement of a contractor for the construction of a new mountain bike trail valued at $125,000 from Council’s procurement process, confirmed that the nominated contractor by Shimano is World Trail Pty Ltd, approved variations to the 2024/25 Budget Estimates for this external funding, and noted that Shimano in addition to the new trail cost, are contributing $30,000 towards trail maintenance costs for a 3 year period from 2025/26.
• Received the Blue Derby mountain bike trails 2023/24 unaudited financial update for Council operations and the Blue Derby Foundation Chair Report as at June 2024, requested the Blue Derby Foundation to review its 2024/25 Budget to include a contribution to Council for trail maintenance, and requested the Blue Derby Foundation to provide 2023/24 financial statements to Council, when available.
• Received and noted the Bridport Seaside Caravan Park 2023/24 unaudited operating results and operations update.
• Received and noted the progress report and updates to the Dorset Council Priority Projects Plan (2023-2025).
The recording of the Council Meeting can be downloaded from this link: https://bit.ly/3MbdF4Y
For further information on any of these items, please contact Commissioner Andrew Wardlaw (0408 766 019) or General Manager, Mr John Marik (03 6352 6500).
cleared by Alan Davenport and Jayden Knight who moved the ball up the field to Narelle Genge.
The teams pushed each other hard, looking for holes in their defences.
Half-time saw neither team on the board after a tough battle with both teams having had several opportunities to score.
With 10 minutes left in the game Devils’ Kayden Carins got the ball into the circle and scored from the centre.
Pythons pushed harder up into attack trying to level the score with Heath Hall moving up the field to help in a final attempt to break the goal drought.
Their attempts were well defended. Devils won, in an incredibly close game
1-0 sending Devils straight into the grand final.
RESULTS
Sloths 3 d Frogs 2
Best - Sloths: Mehki Jones, Damien Wilson, Kerry Kershaw. Frogs: Nick Hill, Andrew Hill, Bianca Hill. Goals- Sloths: Grant Haywood 1, Larnie Evans 1, Damien Wilson 1. Frogs: Byron Atkins 2. Devils 1 d Pythons 0. Best - Devils: Daegan Young, Adam Fisher, Tiah Simmons. Pythons: Heath Hall, Emily Cox, Jayden Knight. GoalsDevils: Kayden Carins 1. This weekend - Pythons v Sloths at 11.00am in the preliminary final.
Pythons’ Emily Cox and Devils’ Daegan Young race for the ball.
•
• Caleb Bedford kicks one into attack, as Bridport stormed home to record a historic victory over OLs.
• Christian Barnes gets a run on through the middle of the ground.
• Joshua Nunn clears one out of the midfield.
• Mo Makitae with the ball for Bridport.
• William McBride booted two goals in the Seagulls spectacle.
• Liam Mckean handballs away under pressure from his OLs opponent.
• Matthew Taylor collects the ball up forward on his way to a bag of five goals for the game.
Historic finals win for Seagulls RAIL
Rotary Club of Scottsdale presents
Lilydale fall over the line
BY DAVID WALSH
IN ONE of best games seen at Lilydale for years in front of a huge crowd, the Demons came from 33-points down at the last break to win by a point and advance to the 2nd semi-final against Old Scotch.
Perth won the toss and kicked to the road end and jumped out of box with the first four goals to Ben Elmer (2), Warren (1) and Grynglas (1) and were winning the clearances around the ground.
Lilydale coach Corey Lockett moved forward and kicked truly and the Demons were on the board.
Storay added another for the Demons but it was all Perth with Mathew Warren adding two more and the brilliant Haley kicked truly and Perth where 26 points up at end of the first. Malkin went to the dangerous Elmer and Mark Walsh into the middle and it quickly fired the Demons up, with Bardenhagen marking strongly and kicking two goals and then full forward Brighton Denman added two more to reduce the margin to a single figure.
But Perth continued to push forward with Warren again kicking accurately to steady the ship. It took some brilliance from Bardenhagen to kick his third for the quarter to give Lilydale a three-point lead at half time.
The premiership quarter started with Ben Elmer giving Perth back the lead within the first minute and Mathew Warren run into an open goal and Perth
were up and about, winning the contests and dominating the stoppages with Jacob Williams and Will Haley finding plenty of the ball.
Lilydale moved Tuthill onto the dangerous Warren but it was Elmer who finished the quarter with two more late goals to make his tally five for the game and give Perth a 33-point lead at end of the third.
Poor kicking for the Demons was very costly and it took until the seven-minute mark before Mark Walsh kicked a running left foot goal from 40 out and the Demons had a sniff.
Ashby received a free in the goal square and kicked truly and the margin was back to 20 points.
Lilydale was starting to win the stoppages and Perth couldn’t get into their forward line.
Rothwell powered through a stoppage and snapped over his shoulder and the supporters were on their feet.
With the game in the balance, Denman marked strongly and kicked truly and the margin was one goal with at least five minutes on the clock.
Then the very clever Zeik Johnston marked 30m out and never looked like missing.
With the game all tied up extra time was possible until Bardenhagen marked 25m out and managed to kick a point and the Demons were home by the smallest of margins.
• Zeik Johnston hand balling one away past his Perth opponent Andy Potter.
Perth played an excellent brand of footy for thee quarters but didn’t manage to score in the last quarter and will play Bridport on Sunday.
Ben Elmer and Mathew Warren both kicked five goals each and were their best players along with Jacob Williams, Andy Potter, Billy Walker and Will Haley.
Bridport bowls over the competition for title
NORTH EAST Indoor Bowls has completed another successful season with the final game played out between Bridport and Legerwood. Bridport defeated a strong Legerwood
• Pictured are finalists Jenny Binns, Jean Targett, Berenice Glover, David Glover, Lynda Rosevear, Maxine Monson, Joshua Glover and Daniel Lethborg.
SCOTTSDALE GOLF CLUB
SATURDAY, AUGUST 17 - 4BBB
Winners: Rob Shea & Graeme Booth 37 points. R/Up: Tas Mundy & Shaun Krushka 36 points. Others - Heather Lack & Teresa Hall 36, Bill Fahey & Tony Collins 36. NTP 5th/14thShaun Krushka. Longest Putt - David Knight
TUESDAY, AUGUST 13 - PAR 3/27 HOLES
Women’s Winner - Cheryl Mackenzie 64. R/Up - Teresa Hall 71, Noelene Lette 75 1/2. Best 9Tracey Taylor 23. Lucky Card - Heather Lack
team 44-40 in a tightly contested game enjoyed by a number of observers. Next season will commence in May 2025 with new members welcome.
SPORTS RESULTS
Men’s Winner- Bill Fahey 70 1/2. Runner upCraig Styles 73. Best 9 - David Knight - 22 1/2 Lucky Card - Matt Hope. Longest PuttNoelene Lette. Longest Putt - Darrell Wells. NTP - John Wood. BRIDPORT GOLF CLUB
SATURDAY, AUGUST 17 - STABLEFORD
Women - 9 Hole Stableford - Raylene
Andy Kent 17. NTP
Lilydale reserves also won, defeating Old Launcestonians 10.9 (69) to 6.6 (42). The Demons reserves and seniors outfits will both play Old Scotch at Hillwood on Saturday at 10.50am and 1pm respectively.
RESULTS
Lilydale 12.17(89) d Perth 14.4 (88) Best, Lilydale: Beau Malkin, Jordan Russell, Mark Walsh, Shaun Avent, Kurtis Tuck, Thane Bardenhagen Goals, Lilydale: Thane Bardenhagen, Brighton Denman 3, James Storay, Jai Asbury, Rueben Rothwell, Mark Walsh, Corey Lockett, Zeik Johnston.
Lilydale’s poor kicking nearly cost them the win 29 to 18 scoring shots, but the old saying of 'the cream always rises to the top' showed out i the last quarter, when Demon players Thane Bardenhagen, Daniel Viney and Mark Walsh showed their class and along with Jordan Russell, Beau Malkin and Kurtis Tuck were Lilydale’s better players.
•
Taylor 18,
10th - Mandy Hall. Men, Winner: John LeFevre 3. R/up: Greg Gurr 34, Jamie Carins 33, Glenn Baker 32, Nick Hayes 31. NTP 6/15: Jamie Carins. Longest Putt O/
Fld 3/12: Spencer Hayes. WEDNESDAY STABLEFORD
Men: Glenn Baker 36, David Bird 35, John Wadley 29. Women: Raylene Taylor 37, Trish Nichol 32, June Atkinson 31, Linda Noonan 31 NTP 6/15: June Atkinson. Longest Putt O/ Field 1/10: Helen Davies.
RINGAROOMA GOLF CLUB
Winner: B Flowers 68. R/Up: M Cook 69 3rd: S Burr c/b 70. NTP 7/16 S Worker. 2nd shot 5/14 N Sutton. Putts D Bean.
Winners of the Scallop Fiesta 3 Ball Ambrose event were Brodie Baker, Dylan Baker, Shane Baker 59.5.
• Daniel Viney bursting forward for the Demons with Jacob Williams trying to stop him.
• Matthew Saunders prepares to get boot to ball for the Demons as Jordan Eyles looms.
Luke Walsh barges past his Perth opponent early in the game.
Singline wins best and fairest
BY PETER FISH
JACOB SINGLINE has joined four legendary Magpie players as a three-time winner of the Scottsdale Football Club Best and Fairest Award. Former triple winners include Ethan Petterwood, Brett Hadley, Jamie Dennis and Greg Lethborg.
Singline previously won the award in 2019 and 2023.
Current assistant coach Troy Milne remains as the club’s only four-time winner of the Lethborg Family Best and Fairest Award.
Singline played mainly in defence but was shifted on ball during the season, and he was a popular winner of the award which was announced on Saturday night. Fellow defender Bradley Whish-Wilson was runner-up to Singline, with skipper Elliot Tyson in third place.
Hannah Viney won the women’s award from previous winner Alex Hall and dependable defender Liyana Juraimi. Viney returned to the Magpies this year and has been a most consistent player.
Riley Probert, who had a strong finish to his season, won the reserves award from Hayden Burr, who also impressed later in the season, while brother Will spent the latter part of his season in the seniors.
Noah Auton was a runaway winner of the Under 18s best and fairest from Daniel Wiggins and Jake Brown. Auton played senior footy during the year and will be
recommended for more games in 2025. Consistent defenders Daniel Wiggins and Jake Brown were slotted in behind Auton.
In their final NTFA match, the seniors actually led at the first change, but it was Bridgenorth who controlled the match thereafter. A six-point lead at quarter time blew out to a 15-point deficit at half time, and things just got worse after that.
Bridgenorth booted 10 goals in the second half while the Magpies could just muster just one, and it was obvious that the visitors were a more classy combination and set a standard that the Magpies will need to aim for in 2025.
The women’s team were locked together with Launceston at half time, but ran out of options and failed to add to their score.
SENIORS B&F (3-2-1)
1 Jacob Singline 58, 2 Bradley WhishWilson 44, 3 Elliot Tyson 40, 4 Julian Rattray 26, 5 Brad Tuffin 23, 6 Grayson Lester 23, 7 Bradley Milne 13, 8 Kyle Lanham 13, 9 Warrick Hall 12, 10 Joe Krushka 10.
SENIOR WOMEN B&F (3-2-1)
1 Hannah Viney 46, 2 Alex Hall 39
3 Liyana Juraimi 35, 4 Georgie Dare 18, 5 Ruby Hall 17, 6 Bridee - Kate Mather 15, 7 Makaylah Lester 15, 8 Brianna Doohan 14, 9 D’Arne Mason 12, 10 Taia Lette 1. RESERVES B&F (3-2-1)
1 Riley Probert 45, 2 Hayden Burr 39, 3 Will Burr 22, 4 Sam Tomkinson 21, 5 Corey Binns 18, 6 Luke Barnett 18, 7 Keiren
Mullins 17, 8 Kyle Wilson 17, 9 Brodie Davis 16, 10 Denham Hall 13. UNDER 18s B&F (5-4-3-2-1)
1 Noah Auton 103, 2 Daniel Wiggins 78, 3 Jake Brown 73, 4 Zac Sheehan 65, 5 Ben Cresswell 43, 6 Isaac Watts 42, 7 Rowan Monson 34, 8 Nick Cresswell 33, 9 Dylan Hall 25, 10 Jesse Farrell 25. RESULTS
Senior Men
Bridgenorth 17.13 (115) d Scottsdale 4.7 (31)
Goals: J Rattray 2, J Hayes, L Mountney.
Best: Bradley Whish-Wilson, Elliot Tyson, Deagen Young, Jacob Singline, Joel Hayes, Brad Tuffin.
Senior Women Launceston 4.8 (32) d Scottsdale 2.2 (14)
Best: H Viney, L Juraimi, M Lester, A Hall, B Doohan, M Rice. Reserves
Bridgenorth 12 .11 (84) d Scottsdale 0.1 (1)
Best: H Burr, L Nichols, D Hall, C Hall, S Tomkinson, M Hall. Under 18s
Bridgenorth 22.12 (144) d Scottsdale 1.3 (9)
Best: N Auton, Z Sheehan, D Wiggins, E Jones, H Bennett, J Farrell. Goal: L Mountney.
Scottsdale under 14 girls into grand final
SCOTTSDALE’S UNDER 14 girls defeated North Launceston on Sunday and qualified for the grand final next week.
Their gutsy six-point win was enough to give them a week off before the big game at UTAS stadium.
Regular goalkicker Abby Samec booted both goals and Catherine Coxen, Ruby Mountney and Matilda Cassidy were among the best players.
The Under 14 boys also had an important win over North Launceston by 11 points and now meet George Town on Sunday in the preliminary final.
James Coxen kicked three great goals and with cousin Wesley Styles, Declan Knight and Fergus Burns was among the team’s best players.
The Under 12 boys bowed out of the finals against a bigger Deloraine team. This group have improved throughout the season and deserve plenty of credit for their efforts.
Scottsdale will host NTJFA preliminary finals on Sunday.
RESULTS
Under 12s
Deloraine 4.7 (31) d Scottsdale 2.1 (13)
Goals: Jacob Farrell, Mac Bingley.
Best: Harry Moore, Mac Bingley, Archie Fish, Thomas Carter, Taj Gillespie, Cameron Dobson.
Under 14 girls
Scottsdale 2.4 (16) d North Launceston 1.4 (10)
Goals: Abby Samec 2. Best: Catherine Coxen, Ruby Mountney, Matilda Cassidy, Rhianna Lette, Abby Samec, Amelia Carter.
Under 14 Boys
Scottsdale 7.4 (46) d North Launceston 5.5 (35)
Goals: James Coxen 3, Flynn Hayes, Declan Knight, Jobie Rockliff, Harrison Murphy.
Best: James Coxen, Declan Knight, Wesley Styles, Fergus Burns, Thomas Smith, Taylor Heazlewood.
Next week’s games @ Scottsdale
9.00am South Launceston Red v South Launceston Blue (Under 12 boys)
10.20am – Scottsdale v George Town (Under 14 boys) (Preliminary Final)
11.40am South Launceston v East Launceston (U17 girls)
1.05pm East Coast Swans v South Launceston Red (U16 boys).
•
• Best and Fairest winners Hannah Viney, Jacob Singline and Noah Auton.
• Eleni Natoba gets a handball away under pressure from her North Launceston opponents.
• Dakoda Widdowson makes a run for it as Lily Champ looms.
• Ruby Mountney kicks out of defence under pressure from Sienna Preece.
Celebrating victory after the final siren.
• Captain Joseph Robinson has his eyes on the prize. Winners are grinners (inset) - coach Andrew Philpott was all smiles after a massive come from behind win for the Seagulls.
T SEE PAGE 9 FOR MATCH PICS AND PAGE 5 FOR SOCIALS.
Bridport triumph in first home final
BY STEVE MCKILLOP
BRIDPORT HOSTED its first ever NTFA final on Sunday in front of the biggest crowd ever seen at the seaside oval against Old Launcestonians.
The Seagulls didn’t disappoint, storming home from 21 points behind at three quarter time to kick eight goals in the last term to triumph by 21 points and move into the semi-final against Perth.
The Seagulls started the first term in style, hitting the scoreboard early with three unanswered goals to set up an early lead and looked the better team with most of the play.
OLs’ defence was working overtime but Michael Murfett was playing a tight game on Taylor who didn’t have much room to move for most of the term.
Bridport had seven scoring shots and should have been further in front.
Not to be denied, OLs kicked two late goals to cut back the margin to eight points
with Cheesman kicking one of these and his signal to the crowd for silence bought a hostile reply from the Bridport supporters.
Joey Robinson was in everthing early with Cal Mulder continuing his good form.
Ols scored first through Archer to score four unanswered goals and if it wasn’t for Jack Lanham’s brilliance taking several intercept marks to stop the flow it could have been worse.
The rest of this term belonged to OLs with the Seagulls only managing one major.
Liam Arnold was trying his heart out against bigger opposition in the ruck contests and Bridport went into the long break three points behind.
Christian Barnes and Busta Whelan were getting their hands on the ball but Bridport’s forwards McBride and Taylor were dealing with poor disposal from further afield.
The game was in the balance and it was Old Launcestonians who took control early in the third .
Bridport were playing only one side of the ground and were playing safe football not attacking. OLs dominated the term with four goals to extend the lead to twenty one points and Bridport’s season was on the line.
Captain Nat Barnett was trying to rally his troops but OLs were looking too classy. Lanham continued on with several telling marks but his teamates needed to lift or it was mothballs.
At the last change coach Philpott and his assistant Juan Salter made some telling moves. Lanham to the forward line with Blackwell sent down back, Cal Mulder and Tyson Digney were both also sent to the forward line.
Bridport banged on three early ones but OLs hit back with a reply. Taylor was instrumental early and when he tapped one to Lanham and got it back he booted it from the 50m mark and Bridport were back in the game and the large crowd began to get involved.
The Seagulls were all over OLs with some hard tackling and young Liam Mckean was instrumental in this happenning.
Jake Blackwell was starting to take some strong marks and the Seagulls had a sniff of victory. Eight goals for the term with Taylor and McBride kicking match winning goals and Bridport had won an historic NTFA final by 21 points.
Fans will remember it for a long time. The community had gathered in large numbers to support the home side and the ground was packed to the limit.
Bridport now move on to the 1st Semi Final on Sunday, August 25, at Invermay Park at 1.30pm against Perth.
RESULTS
Bridport 12.17.89 d OLs 10.8.68
Goals - Matt Taylor 5, Joey Robinson 3, William McBride 2, Cal Mulder, Joshua Whelan.
Best - Jack Lanham, Joey Robinson, Cal Mulder, Nat Barnett, Liam Arnold, Matt Taylor, Liam Mckean, Christian Barnes.
