Derby prepares to party
BY RACHEL WILLIAMS
THE NORTH-EAST’S iconic Blue Derby Mountain Bike trails will soon celebrate 10 years of operation with a major community event being planned for next year and plans to further build on the site’s prosperity. The evolution of the word-renowned trails is continuing with Dorset Council pushing for State or Federal Government investment to guide the next stages of development.
Since opening to the public in February 2015, the trails have transformed the town.
But Council General Manager John Marik said it was imperative to futureproof the trails, which he said generate an estimated $20 million a year for the local economy.
“Celebrating the past decade of Blue Derby is important, but our focus must now shift to safeguarding this world-class asset for generations to come,” Mr Marik said.
Council is calling on the State or Federal Government to fund a $500,000 Derby Master Plan project to outline growth and development opportunities for the town
and its trail network for the next decade and beyond.
“With the expansion of mountain bike trails across Tasmania and Australia, it’s vital to maintain Blue Derby’s position at the forefront of the industry,” Mr Marik said.
Mr Marik said Blue Derby was the cornerstone of Tasmania’s mountain biking success story, with the $3.25 million in previous Federal and State contributions toward the trail network delivering “an extraordinary return on investment”.
With a Federal election looming, it’s
hoped more money will flow to the project, which Blue Derby Foundation Chair Chris Cafe said was an undisputed success story.
“We started with 30kms of trails and a dream and we sit here today nearly a decade on with 133km of single track trails encompassing a network that suits the very beginner and families right through to the most hardcore riders,” Mr Cafe said.
“Today we are known for having a product that is second to none in the world. When the first trail was built there were barely any places to stay and today we have T CONTINUES ON PAGE 2.
• Taylor Clyne, Jacquline Hayden, Luke Petterwood, Chris Cafe, Samantha Kerr, John Marik, Ben and Anastasia Jones with Pete Coleborn are preparing to celebrate 10 years of Blue Derby.
WE SERVE
10 Years Ago – December 3, 2014
Little Rivers brewery grows Scottsdale craft beer brewer Little Rivers was set for expansion as demand for its beer is increasing well beyond expectations. Production at the brewery started in February 2014 and demand has exceeded production ever since. Brewer Chris Carins has been overwhelmed by demand for his specially crafted beer and is planning an expansion in 2015. A casual worker will start soon, and he expects to employ two more staff in early 2015. Chris learnt the trade working as a brewer in Queensland, has seven years’ experience as a wine maker, and is the perfect definition of a craftsman.
20 Years Ago – December 1, 2004
Crows count recruits
The Scottsdale Crows Football Club look set to improve next year. A busy off season recruiting program has seen the club sign former Clarence and South Launceston premiership ruckman, Adrian Dean as playing coach and ex-Evandale and Hagley coach, Mal Claridge overseeing the Reserves. Joining the new coaches at the Crows, will be Dean’s two brothers, Brent and Jarrod from South Launceston, Mal’s son Nathan from Evandale, Jason Gunn, Dane Nicholls and Matthew McGee also from South Launceston, Johnathon Green from Longford, Scott Davenport from the Scottsdale Magpies and Rick Franjic from Fingal.
30 Years Ago – December 1, 1994
Local club to host State Motocross Champs After months of hard work, the newly constructed motocross track at the Santarena Park site on Bridport Rd will host the Tasmanian Championships. More than 60 entries were received from all over Tasmania from the most significant event on the Motocross calendar. The decision to use the new track for the championships is a coup for the local club, as in past years it has been held at the Silverdome, where spectators have been asked to pay. The Bridport Motocross Club will be well represented at the titles. Anthony and Adrian Brown competed in the senior division, Roger Shepherd in the 12-14 years age group, and Glenn Aylett and Andrew Shepherd in the 14-16 year section.
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
Derby’s ‘middle pub’
HISTORY REMEMBERED
THE IMPERIAL Hotel at Derby was an impressive two-storey wooden building constructed in 1900 to the order of 34-yearold William Thomas Doolan.
One of three hotels in the thriving town it came, over time, to be known as ‘the middle pub’.
Consistent with the times it became part of the fabric of the town – in 1901 during a Federal election one candidate visiting Derby gave an address in the hotel’s large billiard room.
Days later another candidate addressed the people of Derby in a speech delivered from the Hotel balcony.
W. T. Doolan remained as owner of the Imperial Hotel until September 1904. He had been a prominent citizen of Derby, including as bandmaster of the Derby brass band.
When he died in Launceston in 1929, at the age of only 62, it was noted that he was a musician of more than ordinary merit, particularly on the violin, and his services had been much in demand for orchestral work. He was also a noted sports administrator.
In 1936 the Ringarooma Licensing Court cracked down on local hotels. The Pioneer Hotel was refused a licence on the grounds that the trade did not warrant a hotel in that town, and the wooden Federal Hotel in
• Imperial Hotel Derby.
Derby (the ‘top pub’) was also refused a license.
The Derby Imperial Hotel (not to be confused with the Branxholm hotel of the same name), then being licensed by W. J. Terry was ordered to be rebuilt in brick or concrete within two years.
The rebuild never happened, the Imperial stayed as a wooden building.
However, in February 1950 the hotel burnt down. It had only recently been sold at auction in Launceston for £2,000, considered a bargain.
The fire started in a condemned building next to the hotel and quickly spread. The building was quickly engulfed, and there was no fire brigade or equipment with which to fight the blaze.
Local residents worked hard to try to save adjacent buildings.
According to a newspaper report there was a man who was in Derby ready to inspect the hotel with the intent of purchasing it for £7,000, who arrived on the scene to realise it was no longer there.
The hotel was reported to have been insured for ‘only a small amount’.
Three months later the insurance company reported to Ringarooma Municipal Council that if the hotel was not to be rebuilt then the land would be acquired by the Commonwealth Government for the erection of a new Derby Post Office.
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.
Derby prepares to party
T CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1.
more than 70 short-term accommodation providers sleeping upwards of 300 people.”
Mr Cafe said the resulting business opportunities, job creation and influx of new families to the area was cause for celebration.
“Shining a light on this anniversary is key in showcasing what we have accomplished but also where we are headed. We plan to grow this product, diversify the destination and bring more visitors to the North-East corner,” he said.
A three-day celebration is being planned to mark the milestone from April 10-12, 2025.
It will include the opening of the new Shimano Trail, an event village and festivities, a community event with live
music, food and drink, VIP and guided rides, an anniversary beer collaboration with Little Rivers and a full line of anniversary merchandise.
Pete Coleborn worked with World Trails to build the original tracks and has since been working with Council on the ever-evolving project.
He said he’s also looking forward to hosting hundreds of people from across the globe later next year for the Professional Trail Builders Association annual conference in November.
It’s the first time the event has been held outside of North America.
“To have it hosted in Derby is real recognition of where we sit in terms of market position as a mountain bike destination but also recognition
that Derby is considered the golden standard of maintenance and how to look after an investment and continue to build and look after the product.”
Visit Northern Tasmania CEO Tracey Mallett said businesses should start preparing to make the most out of the international exposure that will come with both the 10 year celebration and the conference.
“VNT encourages all operators to think differently, be ready to welcome returning or new visitors with improved communication, details about their sustainability, accessibility or diversity offerings and open their doors to provide that true Tasmanian hospitality,” she said.
NORTH
EASTERN EVENTS
CALENDAR 2024/2025
December 6
• Christmas Market Scottsdale Mechanics Hall
• George Town Christmas Carnival George Town
• Late Night Shopping Scottsdale
December 7
• Bridport Niche Village Market Bridport, 9:30am
• 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
January 12
• Show & Shine Car/ Bike Show
Bridport Village Green, from 10:00am
Christmas cheer incoming to North East
THE PUDDINGS have been made and the turkey ordered as the Scottsdale and Bridport Uniting Churches prepare for a free community Christmas Day lunch.
The church’s Sandra Mountney said that a team of volunteers including Jan Rainbow and Joanne Kerr have combined to bring back the initiative.
“Vicki Knight started it in the early 2000s when she was the coordinator at Dorset House, but it hasn’t happened as a free event since 2018,” Mrs Mountney said.
“The Church decided to do something for our community and Jan and Jo do a lot of catering and volunteering and they have stepped up to cook with a team of five in the kitchen.
“It will be a special occasion with anyone welcome. Especially for those who don’t have families around them - we don’t want them to spend Christmas alone.
“Our area is just amazing, so many people have come out of the woodwork to donate to make sure it’s a free lunch.”
With traditional Christmas fare including roast chicken and turkey, ham, new potatoes, baked pumpkin, honey carrots, mint peas and gravy it will be a feast topped off with lots of desserts including Lucille’s famous plum pudding and custard.
The Mountney family will be performing at the luncheon which will be held at Northbourne Hall from 12 noon.
RSVP by December 10 to Jan on 0417 644 864 or Joanne on 0428 328 510.
There are a host of other festivities being held in the lead up to Christmas.
• Late Night Shopping will feature local businesses in Scottsdale with a Christmas market at the Mechanics’ Institute Hall this Friday, with the McCallum family singing on the lawns of the Uniting Church from 6pm.
• The free Rotary Dorset Christmas celebration will be held at Scottsdalele Recreation Ground this Sunday from 11am -2pm with food and entertainment.
• Lilydale will host its Christmas Carols this Sunday, December 8 at Lilydale Bowls Club from 3pm-6pm with facepainting, a visit from Santa and performances by local musicians and school children.
• Springfield Carols will be held hosted by Friends of St Paul’s at Springfield Hall from 7pm pm Saturday, December 14 with special guest artists and music by Kell Cutler with a visit from Santa and a shared country-style supper.
• Scottsdale Community Carols will be held on Sunday, December 15 at Scottsdale Primary School Hall from 5pm featuring the songs of Christmas performed by the Scottsdale Choir with guest solo artists as well as children’s Nativity and performance by the Dorset Line Dancers. The evening will include a free barbecue.
• If you are seaside that evening, Bridport Lions Club is also holding its annual Carols by the Sea on December 15. The event starts at 4pm with a visit from Santa followed by carols from 5pm on the Village Green. Food and soft drink will be available to purchase.
• The annual Derby Twilight Christmas Market will be held on Friday, December 13 from 4-7pm. A wide variety of stalls will be on offer alongside live music. Free entry at the Derby Town Hall.
• North-Eastern Netball Association is presenting the Winnaleah Christmas Market at the Rec Ground on Sunday, December 15, 10am-2pm.
• Weymouth Fire Brigade will host a Christmas lolly run on Sunday, December 15. Santa will spread his sugary treats from Weymouth Hall at 10am, Tam O’Shanter Golf Club at 11am and Lulworth Community Shed at 12.
• After a successful Christmas in July gathering, Branxholm Events Committee is bringing back the festive cheer with a free, family-friendly event to celebrate the holiday season. Christmas in Branxholm will include live Christmas carols and a festive movie screening on the lawn at the Recreation Ground. Food and drinks will be available for purchase, with all proceeds supporting future community events in 2025. The evening of holiday cheer will be held on Saturday, December 21 from 5pm.
• Santa will also be hitting the Main Street of Bridport on Christmas Eve throwing lollies from the Bridport Fire Brigade truck from 4.30pm - 6.30pm.
• Jan Rainbow, Sandra Mountney and Jo Kerr are preparing to welcome community members to the free Christmas lunch at Northbourne on Christmas Day.
SCOTTSDALE COURT REPORT
A SCOTTSDALE man who says his prescription medication is leading to positive readings for methamphetamine had a “high mountain to climb” to prove his innocence, according to the Magistrate presiding over Scottsdale Court last week.
Joshua James Occleshaw has previously pleaded not guilty to driving with an illicit drug in his system and last week appeared on further charges of the same nature, to which he pleaded not guilty through a Legal Aid lawyer.
Magistrate Sharon Cure has moved the matters into Launceston Magistrates Court on June 2, 2025, to allow for Forensic Science Service Tasmania staff to give evidence. She requested Mr Occleshaw provide evidence of his prescriptions to the court.
Meanwhile, Jacob Anthony Boekelman, who is currently living in St Helens for work, will also have a hearing into a range of matters in Launceston Magistrates Court next June.
Mr Boekelman pleaded not guilty to charges of evading police, using an unregistered motor vehicle, having no premium cover and exceeding the speed limit with Police alleging he was driving at 86km in a 50km zone in Derby on August 1.
Rodeo
charges
A MONTH after the Gladstone Rodeo controversy has hit, with charges laid after a bull was shot following an incident at the event.
Police issued a media statement last week saying that a 34-year-old Meander Valley man would be summonsed for multiple offences including animal cruelty and discharging a firearm in a public place.
They said the animal was “illegally euthanised” at the event on Saturday, November 2, after the bull reportedly broke its leg during competition.
Police executed a search warrant at a Meander Valley address as part of an investigation into the incident.
During the search, police seized 30 firearms. A 62-year-old Meander Valley man will also be summonsed for multiple firearms-related offences as a result of the search.
The court was told a hearing into the matter would take at least two hours with three police witnesses, CCTV footage and Police body worn camera footage. The matter was set down for June 2.
Mr Boekelman also pleaded guilty to one count of driving a motor vehicle with an illicit drug in his system after THC was detected in his oral fluid sample when he was intercepted for a Random Breath Test on June 12 in Beattie St, Scottsdale.
He was fined $404 and ordered to pay $98.54 in court costs and was also given a three-month disqualification postponed until February 15 to give him an opportunity to apply for a restricted licence.
Joshua Michael Moss pleaded guilty to one count of driving without a licence and the matter was adjourned until the next Scottsdale sitting on February 4 for sentence.
A 20-year-old who has moved from Scottsdale to Coles Bay to “get away from trouble and drama” will have to lose his licence but has given a time reprieve from Magistrate Cure.
Kaelin Dre Galley ’s matters have been moved to St Helens Court for plea when Magistrate Cure is next sitting there on
February 5.
Mr Galley told the court he was turning his life around after being charged with a range of offences including unlawfully possessing a dangerous article in a public place, driving while his licence was suspended and driving with drugs in his system and had asked for leniency as he was now doing well at a new job.
Bradley Wayne Jones pleaded guilty to exceeding the legal blood alcohol limit while driving on the Tasman Highway at Tonganah on August 9. He recorded 0.078 after having “a few” at the Branxholm Hotel. He was disqualified for six months and fined $808 with $98.54 in costs.
Brodie John McKenzie Long was given until March 18 to file a restricted licence application before he is sentenced on one count of driving with an illicit drug in his system.
Aaron John Reid was disqualified from driving for six months, postponed until February 15 to allow him time to apply for a restricted licence. He was also fined $808 and court costs of $98.54.
Mr Reid pleaded guilty to driving while exceeding the prescribed alcohol limit with a reading of 0.119 recorded in Scottsdale on August 10 but said he was only in the
parked car with the engine running to stay warm while having a sleep before driving home.
Ricki John Madden was fined $200 and court costs of $78.54 after pleading guilty to driving without a licence after an oversight in paying his renewal.
Lane Michael Dwyer pleaded guilty to an offence of having alcohol in his system while driving when his licence does not allow that, when he was caught in Bridport with a reading of 0.014.
He was disqualified for six months, commencing on February 15 to allow time to apply for a restricted licence, fined $808 plus $98.54 in court costs.
Patricia Anne Barnes pleaded guilty to wilfully obstructing a Police Officer after an incident in Hawkes Place, Scottsdale, last year.
The court was told that she had a disability and did not understand that Police were attempting to take one key for a unit she had been asked to vacate, and not her entire set of keys.
The court heard she had struggled with the Police Officer over the keys and he received minor injuries to his ring finger.
Miss Barnes was convicted and fined $300 plus $98.54 in court costs.
DAP Bill defeated
LOCAL GOVERNMENT has welcomed the Legislative Council decision to vote down the State Government’s proposed new Development Assessment Panel bill.
Independent McIntyre MLC Tania Rattray voted against the DAP Bill which would have established an alternative method to bypass councils for certain developments to be assessed.
Ms Rattray said there was no appetite in the Upper House to send the legislation to a Committee of Inquiry for hearings with interested parties.
“The six local government areas that I represent all said no to the DAP legislation as it was,” she said.
“I am not opposed to an alternate pathway from the Planning Authority which I know can be frustrating for some projects and developers, but it needs to
be something that Local Government can have some confidence in especially if they need to use it themselves when they are the applicant for a project.
“The Government didn’t get their consultation with the Local Government sector right whereas they were quite good with the Property Council and social housing representative bodies.”
Commissioner Andrew Wardlaw said Dorset Council was pleased with the outcome after last week joining the chorus of criticism from the sector about the changes, which would have allowed developments over $2million or other controversial projects to skip planning in place of an independent DAP, whose decision could not be appealed.
“Council looks forward to working
collaboratively with the Local Government sector and the State Government in the new year.”
The State Government said it remained committed to the panels and would look to progress legislation in the new year.
“They can’t return the same Bill so there is a clear message to the Government that they need to go back to the drawing board and engage with Local Government and find an alternative process,” Ms Rattray said.
Break O’Day Mayor and Local Government Association of Tasmania President Mick Tucker said “despite the manner in which the Minister and Premier have denigrated our sector, councils remain open to working with the State Government on sensible planning reform.”
Barnbougle questions answered
PLANNING PROCEDURE questions
asked by Bridport resident Jeff Jennings at the October Council meeting have been answered by Community and Development Director Rohan Willis after he had taken them on notice.
Mr Jennings raised concerns about the new Barnbougle units, which are being developed to meet growing demand of golf tourism.
Mr Jennings asked what procedural changes would be made to ensure that conditions laid down in any planning permits were strictly followed.
Mr Willis said that Council undertook
routine site visits of proposed and existing development sites to observe compliance with planning scheme requirements.
“Where non-compliance is observed, proceedings to course-correct through enforcement are enacted,” he said.
“The inference being drawn that planning permit conditions in relation to vegetation clearance at the site were not met is incorrect. As noted, it was marram grass upon the public reserve – a non-native vegetation variety – that was impacted by construction activities of the proponent.
Despite this, Council has assisted in the investigation of the matter with Property
Future of Local Government
THERE WILL be no forced amalgamations as part of the long-awaited State Government response to the Future of Local Government Review.
Minister for Local Government Kerry Vincent announced last Wednesday that it had accepted 36 of the Review’s 37 recommendations, either in full, in part, or in principle.
The Government agreed that a formal amalgamation proposal should be developed to merge Break O’Day, Glamorgan-Spring Bay and Sorell Councils into two councils
If Dorset maintains an appetite to support a “North East Council” encompassing rural segments of George Town and Launceston, as well as northern components of Break O’Day, the Government would “work with them to progress structural reforms”.
Dorset Council met yesterday in a workshop session to start formalising its response.
Regardless of boundary adjustments, a Priority Reform Program will be implemented before the next round of Local
Government elections due by October 2026.
It outlines a move to mandatory pre-candidacy education sessions before anyone is eligible to stand for council.
It’s not known what that means if Dorset is forced to go to early elections next year once the final Board of Inquiry findings are made public.
Other reforms include the requirement for all councillors standing for election to State or Federal Parliament to take leave from their council position; the introduction of a framework for council fees and charges and new statutory provisions requiring councils to have an internal audit function.
The government has committed to review the current rating system “to make it simpler, more equitable, and more predictable for landowners” and also a comprehensive review of councillor allowances and councillor numbers, but both of those actions won’t occur until after 2026.
Services and progressing appropriate measures of reprimand.
“Council also works closely with various private building surveyors that service the Dorset municipality to support them to informally observe planning permit conditions whilst undertaking building inspections for their respective clients and report back to Council on any observed non-compliance.
“It is important to also understand that not ‘all’ conditions imposed on planning permits must be complied with prior to construction works commencing.
Some conditions are crafted in a manner
that require certain measures to be undertaken, or certain infrastructure to be installed, prior to the approved ‘use’ being commenced.”
A request by Mr Jennings for “adequate visual representations” of proposed constructions to be included in development applications was not supported by the planning scheme, Mr Willis said.
He said it could be challenged as “being superfluous” and cost excessive, particularly if the proposed development satisfied all acceptable solutions for setbacks and building heights.
Event funding policy process finalised
A NEW event funding policy has been adopted by Dorset Council with an assessment panel to be established to evaluate community applications.
At last month's Council meeting, Commissioner Andrew Wardlaw adopted the new policy which includes a comprehensive framework to guide levels of event support.
Council has previously supported events by reviewing submissions during the annual budget estimates process.
The new framework aims to ensure that Council allocates event funding equitably and consistently, and ensures transparency for Council, event organisers and the community by requiring successful recipients to acquit funds and provide post event reviews.
It was agreed that a discretionary fund be available for events that don’t apply during the annual application process.
Council’s total combined event support last financial year was $89,700 with $35,500 of cash
contribution and $54,200 worth of in-kind support.
Council is set to advertise the event funding application process in early 2025 so that event organisers can apply for funding for events being held in 2025/26.
A panel will make recommendations to Council about events to receive financial or in-kind support.
“Signature Events” that are large scale and deliver substantial community, economic and tourism benefits or generates state or national profile for the region will be eligible for up to $10,000 per annum.
Tier 1 tourism and community events would be eligible for up to $5,000 per annum while Tier 2 smaller events would be eligible for a maximum of $2,000 per annum.
All funds would be provided for up to three years unless significant community value can be demonstrated.
Access to extra opportunities for our youth
YOUTH MATTERS
Sponsored by Dorset Suicide Prevention Network
BY ELLA BAYLES
DID YOU know that in the North-East of Tasmania we have lots of things that we can access as young people?
However, this does not mean that we don’t need more things to improve our access to opportunities.
The North-East of Tasmania has always offered sports such as netball, football, basketball and hockey.
But did you know as a young person you could sign up and become part of other groups such as cricket, squash, tennis, jujitsu, Little Athletics, Army Cadets, cattle handling, run club, and swim club.
At Scottsdale High School we have access to a broad range of these extracurricular activities across the year.
Many students were interviewed for this article and were asked a few questions about their chosen activity. The results were very positive.
Questions included: Why did you decide to become involved? Why would you encourage other people to join? What do you love about the sport? Why is this a good way to spend your time? And, what do you think is missing from the area
that may be an opportunity for council, community groups or businesses to fund into the future?
All the information gathered by these students is extremely vital to a positive change in this community for all ages and has been compiled to provide a picture of what we enjoy and how we feel more things could be offered into the future.
The students who have shared their views and expectations include Maverick Wood, Cody Johnson, Will Probert, Billy Oliver, Jackson Fletcher, Lochie Bowerman, Deagen Young, Mitchell Muir and Maddy Fletcher.
Maverick Wood shared how he enjoys playing tennis and that it is a nice fun summertime activity worthy of his time, however he is not part of a competition for people his age. Maverick also believes that volleyball would be a fun sport to consider offering for the community.
Cody Johnson is a part of the Thumb’s Up Running Club and finds it an amazing and enjoyable way to keep fit and healthy and a useful tool for training for competitive competitions. Cody suggested other sports or hobbies he would enjoy are competitive fishing and kayaking. Cody expressed how these sports would be a fun activity that may entice people’s interests and bring about more of a sense of community for young people.
Will Probert plays squash at the Scottsdale Indoor Action centre with his mates and he really encourages all people to give it a go. He believes there is no better way to spend his Thursdays. Will believes there is a gap in our community for young people to access water sports.
Offering a different perspective, Billy Oliver is a member of the Army Cadets in Scottsdale. Billy has shared how he has gained many companions during his time there and believes that Cadets is a very social experience. Billy explained it is a great opportunity to try something new and learn many important skills that connect with values such as resilience, respect and courage. He says it’s a very welcoming environment and filled with fun activities.
Likewise, Jackson Fletcher shared how Cadets is a great way to learn about crucial life skills such First Aid and survival skills. Another valuable attribute Jackson believed was beneficial of the Cadet’s program is that you gain initiative and can learn more about pathways associated with the Australian Defence Force.
Lochlan Bowerman shared how he loves sports which are physically demanding such as basketball, football and hockey. Lochlan believes sports bring people together to form positive relationships, however if he was to play a more individualised sport he
Mindful matters
TWO “NURTURE You “Workshops were held in November with wellbeing tips passed on by local mindfulness and mindset coach, registered nurse and health and wellbeing consultant Jess Carins.
Mrs Carins said between 12-15 participants engaged in the two two-hour sessions, learning about mindfulness and how to apply it in everyday life to help reduce stress and navigate challenges. Topics such as mindfulness and its origins, self-awareness and growth mindset were explored as well as practical experiences of breathwork, guided meditation, art therapy and mindfulness in nature.
“As a facilitator it was humbling to receive such positive feedback in how the participants felt confident the workshop content and experience will help them in everyday life and also that they would recommend the sessions to others,” Mrs Carins said.
“It was really nice to see a range of age and demographic attend. I love being able to provide these sorts of things in my local area.”
Dorset Community House facilitated the sessions via a one-off Dorset Council grant.
Mandatory eID for Sheep & Goats begins 1 January 2025
All sheep and goats born on or after 1 January 2025 that move off a farm or other registered agricultural property, including backyards, will be required to have an NLIS approved eID tag.
All livestock supply chain participants must be ready to scan eID tags from 1 January 2025.
To support the eID rollout the Government is providing funding for scanning equipment and has reduced the price of eID tags.
Visit www.nre.tas.gov.au/eID for more information.
would relish the opportunity to be part of clinics to learn more about golf and play in junior tournaments.
Deagan Young and Mitchell Muir shared how football at the Scottsdale Football Club is a very social experience that brings people together. Deagan expressed how he loved the responsibility of football and importance of contributing as part of the team. He shared howfootball provides a pathway. Mitchell, in contrast, shared how football provided an avenue for expressing his feelings. Other sports Mitchell expressed that he would enjoy are boxing, rugby and cricket.
Maddy Fletcher shared how netball is a great way to keep fit and be part of her local community at Ringarooma. She shared how by working with her family to support her local club she gains a sense of accomplishment.
Personally, I believe that a sport missing in the North-East is a rugby competition that is targeted at females.
We hope that by young people hearing these stories about why you should become involved in some of these extra-curricular activities that it sparks interest to find out more. We hope this also shows our community what we believe might be missing or great to become a part of if it was ever to be offered in the future.
Manager Naomi Buster said Building Blocks provided support for parents to attend and to include members of the ‘Baby Chat’ group, which meets at the Community House on Friday mornings.
“At this stage it was a one-off event, but something we would definitely like to look into doing more of, as it was so well received and appreciated,” Ms Buster said.
• Some of the group at Northeast Park after the nature session
“From conversations with people there is such a need for us all to learn these skills to invest and embed in our own lives.”
• Billy Oliver. • Cody Johnson. • Ella Bayles.
• Jackson Fletcher.
• Lochlan Bowerman.
• Maddy Fletcher.
• Maverick Wood. • Mitchell Muir.
• Will Probert.
Luke’s legacy in maths prize
DISABILITY SERVICE provider
Pathfinder has set up $2000 worth of annual scholarships in honour of former client Luke Kolkert.
Luke was born with Rubinstein-Taybi syndrome, a rare genetic disorder causing learning difficulties, short stature and other debilitating problems.
He died suddenly in June this year from oesophageal cancer, aged 40.
Pathfinder is remembering Luke and his passion for numbers with a range of scholarships at Scottsdale High School.
“He was one of my first participants and then we grew to nearly 200 participants, he became like a younger brother to us,”
Pathfinder’s Danish Siddiqui said.
“We needed to make sure that his legacy stays in this town and there was no better way to do it than by giving scholarships to the students who love mathematics like Luke did.”
The Luke Kolkert Mathematics Scholarship will provide $600 to a Year 1012 student who has shown proficiency and dedication to mathematics over their time at Scottsdale High School.
The Luke Kolkert Award for Mathematics Year 10 will see $500 awarded to the highest achieving mathematics student in Year 10 and aims to encourage the student to be proud
of their mathematical ability and continue to strive for excellence in mathematics.
A year 7/8/9 award worth $200 per grade will also be named in Luke’s honour for the highest achieving mathematics student in Year 7, 8 and 9.
A $300 contribution will also be put towards the school’s Dux prize.
Principal Elizabeth Williams said it was a wonderful gesture.
“We are very grateful to the Kolkert family and Pathfinder Care for their generous sponsorship,” she said.
“We are sure these awards will encourage students to continue
Max makes icon status
FORMER SCOTTSDALE forestry
contractor Max Jones has been celebrated with the awarding of icon status by the Australian Forest Contracting Association.
Mr Jones, from Seamax Group, is now based in Burnie but spent decades working in the North-East with MDL Logging and spent a decade as Scottsdale Crows Football Club President.
“I left 14 years ago when Gunns went belly up. I salvaged what I could and
moved to Queensland to work,” Mr Jones said.
“I came back to Burnie 10 years ago with one truck and built up to 14 trucks and I now have eight running,” Mr Jones said.
“I’ve been bankrupt once but came back again. It’s a tough industry but I love it and at 73 I still love coming to work every day.”
Mr Jones was named in the AFCA Hall of Fame six years ago and said it was an honour to be recognised as an icon
alongside Les Walkden at a gala dinner and industry excellence awards night held last month.
He said it was nice to see the achievements of Jacob Hughes from JCH Harvest recognised at the awards, as the winner of the Next Generation Achiever, awarded to a talented and successful emerging industry leader.
“He’s having a crack and we need to celebrate the young people in the industry,” he said.
striving for excellence in mathematics and even inspire them to follow a mathematics pathway in the future.
“We need strong mathematicians in our society and the awards in Luke’s memory certainly promote and celebrate mathematical ability and problem solving amongst our school community.”
“THE MEADOWS”
• Max Jones.
• Luke Kolkert.
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.
2. Confirmation of minutes of 2023
3.
of
12. Urgent general business
Peter Fish (Public Officer)
Carols Sunday, December 15 from 5pm
Scottsdale
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.
Lions longevity celebrated
SCOTTSDALE SHOW’S
Chocolate Wheel chief has celebrated a major milestone with the Lions Club of Scottsdale.
Wayne Harper last week notched up 25 years as a Lion, an achievement he says is extremely special.
“I started out only going to be in Lions for a year to help and 25 years later I’m still doing it to help make the community a better place and hopefully get other people to join Lions to make Scottsdale a great place to live,” Mr Harper said.
“I get great enjoyment in being able to help some people in need. If we don’t have service clubs in the town a lot of things will fade away, and then it will be too late to fix.”
Mr Harper’s spruiking at the show’s Chocolate Wheel helped the club raise over $4,000 for the community.
Kath and Peter Kuntinsch were also presented with certificates for 10 years as Lions while the newest member of the club, Luke Fish, was inducted.
“I love the Lions Club and helping people. I am looking forward to the barbeque and Chocolate Wheel,” said Mr Fish, who is a regular volunteer at the Scottsdale Football Club as water boy.
Scottsdale Lions is asking people to reach out if they have a great idea on something that can be developed or purchased for the benefit of the Scottsdale community.
As it continues raising funds for future projects, the club is currently preparing its barbeque for the Dorset Rotary Christmas Celebration at the Scottsdale Recreation Ground this Sunday. and will also be cooking a BBQ at Scottsdale Community Carols on December 15.
Lions Christmas Cakes and Lions Christmas Puddings are available at Nutrien Scottsdale, McLennans Butchery and IGA Scottsdale and the club’s Christmas Raffle is active with tickets available for purchase outside Woolworths on December 14.
Melbourne Cup fun
• Mark Nichols, Peter Claridge and Terry Brown were among more than 60 people who attended the Melbourne Cup Day function held at The Loft, organised by the Bridport Ex Services, Bowls and Community Club.
• Shelley Barcza, Kym Nichols, Julie Hogarth, Trish Brown and Cleone Hill.
• Craig Saunders. Steven Smart, Bob Smith and Roger Whittle.
• Dave and Toni Kelty.
• Wayne Harper, Luke Fish, Kath and Peter Kuntinsch.
• Eunice Easterbrook and Vic Coombes.
Riders lost in endurance ride
LEBRINA RIDER Kirstie
Lockhart has won the State Championships at the Tasmanian Equine Endurance Riders Association event held at Santarena Park, Jetsonville, over the weekend.
There were 57 riders in action as part of the competition, which started at midnight Friday and involved a 160km journey around the region.
Lockhart said she was thrilled to finish the year with the win, given the challenging weather conditions and a disappointing act that saw many riders lost in the bush in the dark.
She said some crucial markers directing competitors at Old Waterhouse Road onto a bush track were ripped down sometime
between 4pm Friday and 1am Saturday morning.
“It caused many issues for our event, with horses travelling much further distances than what they needed to and riders getting lost,” she said.
“It caused a few horse and rider welfare issues for our event with two horse and rider combos deciding to not go any further with the event after getting lost for so long in the dark.”
Despite the disappointment, a number of competitors achieved entry for the 2025 Tom Quilty Gold Cup to be held at Sassafras in May.
Emerald Rigby, Kiana Nutting and Bella Sheean completed in their first 160 and are now qualified.
2024 Tasmanian State Endurance Championship results
160KM STATE CHAMPIONSHIP WINNERS
Overall Ride Kirstie Lockhart riding Lockleigh Park Silver - Time 12:05:45. Heavyweight Shane Neilley riding Woodsong Indiana Rose - Time 12:45:12.
Middleweight Kaye Mitchell riding Beer Street Dezhda - Time 14:24:26.
Lightweight Molly Napier riding Pyro FF – Time 12:26:32.
Junior Alexa Parker riding Bellawongarah Isaac - Time 14:19:26.
160KM STATE CHAMPIONSHIP
BEST CONDITIONED
Heavyweight Shane Neilley and Woodsong Indiana Rose.
Middleweight Kirstie Lockhart and Lockleigh Park Silver.
Lightweight Molly Napier and Pyro FF.
Junior Alexa Parker and Bellawongarah Isaac.
95KM ELEVATOR ENDURANCE RIDE
Overall Ride/Middleweight Deb Wyllie riding Beer Street Tarkine - Time 6:34:15. Heavyweight Bella Pickering riding
YOUR TASMANIAN OWNED VALLEY DEALER
Vandieman Trojen – Time 8:19:38.
Lightweight Jess Goulding riding Beer Street Hellyer – Time 6:52:00. Kirsty Neilley riding Kalody Park White Feather – Time 6:52:00.
Junior Lauren Rattray riding Loringa Voodoo Zooming Fire – Time 7:52:13. Piper Braid riding Padawan El Adien –Time 7:52:13.
95KM ELEVATOR BEST
CONDITIONED
Heavyweight Bella Pickering and Vandieman Trojen.
Middleweight
Deb Wyllie and Beer Street Tarkine.
Lightweight Jess Goulding riding Beer Street Hellyer – Time 6:52:00.
Junior Lauren Rattray riding Loringa Voodoo Zooming Fire.
55KM ELEVATOR INTERMEDIATE RIDE
Andrew Miles riding Orlov Leis – Time 5:03:03.
15KM INTRODUCTORY RIDE
100% Completion from all horse and rider combinations.
• 160km Junior State Champs winner Molly Napier riding Pyro FF.
• Jack Robinson riding Beer Street Bluemoon and Alice Mitchell Riding Beer Street Dalliance.
• Lockleigh Park International's Noel Lockhart, Kirstie Lockhart, Brad Hill and Alison Lockhart with Matt Tait.
• Millanna Bignell riding Malricia TC Tops the lot.
• Shelley Jones riding Shayelle Cadillac.
• Virginia Barber riding Woodsong Princess Barbie and Shane Neilley riding Woodsong Indiana Rose.
Photos courtesy of Roger Nichols.
Kings Meadows too strong
BRIDPORT BOWLS
BY THE BRIDPORT WIZARD
BRIDPORT’S PREMIER team travelled to Kings Meadows for its round six game. The game was played in the indoor complex with all Bridport teams well placed into their game, until the Kings Meadows teams got on top and then the Bridport teams found it hard to bridge the gap; going down on all rings.
Captain Turtle's team had tough game against Page. The game was fairly close until Page's team got on top and won by 14 shots.
Captain Turtle and his lead Kabana
Morton played well during the game.
Dusty Monson's team was well placed in their game against Pedley ,until Pedley's team won some big end and ended up winning by 16 shots.
Josh Glover played well again in the leads position for Dusty’s team
Uncle Ed in his wisdom asked his team to go and watch some Kung-Fu Panda movies on the Friday night to hopefully gain some fighting spirit for their game and it was working well until Hemingway’s team won a few big ends in a row and ended up winning by 13 shots.
Uncle Ed and his No.3 played some good
bowls shots throughout the game.
Scores: Bridport 45 lt Kings Meadows 88. Churchill 10 lt Page 24, Monson 22 lt Pedley 38, Walker 13 lt Hemingway 26.
Div 5 was able to play a game against Midlands with all teams finding it hard to get on top of their opponents, going down on all rings.
David Glover's team was the best performing team on the day only going down by six shots.
Scores: Bridport 48 lt Midlands 64. Archer 9 lt Haynes 21, Sankey 7 lt Clarke 27, Glover 10 lt Davey 16.
• Terry "T-Bone" Brown ready to bowl at Kings Meadows.
Regional cricket gets underway
CRICKET IS set to start in the region this week with three teams in both the junior and senior roster set to hit the pitch.
Scottsdale will field a junior and a senior team, Bridport has two junior and a senior team while Branxholm has a senior team registered.
A gala day featuring a ladies game will kick start the senior roster on Saturday, January 11 with the grand final of the senior competition to be held on February 15.
Juniors start this Friday and a special
gala day and Cricket Tasmania clinic will conclude their season on either Friday February 20 or March 1.
JUNIOR ROSTER
Round 1 – Friday 6th December
Scottsdale v Bridport Bullants @ Scottsdale.
Round 2 – Friday 13th December
Scottsdale v Bridport Jack Jumpers v @ Scottsdale.
Round 3 – Friday 20th December
Bridport Bullants v Bridport Jack Jumpers
@ Bridport.
Round 4 – Friday 7th February Bridport Bullants v Scottsdale @ Bridport.
Round 5 – Friday 14th February Bridport
Jack Jumpers v Scottsdale @ Bridport.
Round 6 – Friday 21st February Bridport
Jack Jumpers v Bridport @ Bridport.
Gala Day - Clinic – Friday 28th February / Sat 1st March Scottsdale or Bridport Ground. Cricket Tas to conduct.
SENIOR ROSTER
Round 1 – Gala Day @ Bridport – Saturday
11th January Bridport v Branxholm @ 9am, Branxholm v Scottsdale @ Noon, Scottsdale v Bridport @ 3pm, Ladies Game @ 6pm.
Round 2 - @ Scottsdale Friday 17th
January @ 5.15pm, Branxholm v Bridport.
Round 3 - @ Scottsdale Friday 31st January @ 5.15pm, Scottsdale v Branxholm.
Round 4 - @ Scottsdale Friday 7th February @ 5.15pm, Bridport v Scottsdale.
Grand Final - @ Scottsdale Friday 14th February @ 5.15pm.
Magpies search for new Patron
T CONTINUED FROM BACK PAGE. player we need to support the club and importantly I believe we can grow the base,” he said.
Rickie Dolliver has been appointed head coach and will arrive from the ACT later this month ready for a Christmas club function on December 13.
It’s still not yet known how millions of dollars from the AFL as part of the Tasmanian team deal will flow to regional areas like Scottsdale, which is asking for funding to complete underground irrigation of its main playing surface to ensure its consistently up to standard.
“It would be fair to say I need to get my
BRIDPORT GOLF CLUB
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 30
STABLEFORD
Women Winner: M Hall 32, J Atkinson 29. NTP 1/10: M Hall. Men Div 1 Winner: D Hyland 38. R/Up: W Homan 33, B Laird 32, K Russell 32. Div 2 Winner: A Johnson 37. R/Up: G Williams 34, N Homan 29. NTP 3/12: D Hyland. 6/15: W Homan. Longest Putt O/Field 9/18: Z Nicholls. Friday Flappers: A Johnson 19.
feet under the desk and understand how that is all going to operate but there is a significant amount of money that will be flowing into the North as a result of the restructure and what is important is to ensure we use that money to build and strengthen all clubs across the board and importantly enable clubs like Scottsdale to get back to where it was and that is as a powerhouse,” Mr Gutwein said.
He said the club still has a State Government grant from when he was Premier which will soon be spent on a major redevelopment and repositioning of the old kiosk under the grand stand.
The Magpies also received money at the
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29. Tasmanian Senior Ladies RED: Div 1: Winner: M Bauld 30, R/Up: K Bower 23. BLUE: Div 2: Winner: K Hall 33, R/Up: J Rayworth 32, 3rd: T Taylor 31. GREEN: Div 3: Winner: B Ebbelaar 36, R/Up: A Norton 30 c/b, 3rd: I Page 30 c/b M Hall. YELLOW: Div 4: Winner: L White 32, R/Up: R Beattie 31, 3rd: V Hancock 29. GOLD: Div 5: Winner: R Searle 29, R/Up: R Hatton 28, 3rd: H Davies 25. NTP’S: RED: Div 1: 3rd shot 3/12: M
last State election for the installation of solar panels, which are set to be installed following the kiosk project.
SFC President David Mullins said Gutwein had gone well above the duties of a Patron and for that the club was very greatful.
“We will go through the process to see if Murray Partridge is interested in stepping up from his Vice Patron role and if not, we will look for someone who is passionate about the club and its future direction,” he said.
Scottsdale’s AGM will he held on Friday night, with Mullins confirming he will put his hand up to continue in his role.
SPORTS RESULTS
Bauld. BLUE: Div 2: 2nd shot 1/10: K Hall. GREEN: Div 3: 2nd shot 1/10: I Page. YELLOW: Div 4: 2nd shot 6/15: K Cuthbertson. GOLD: Div 5: 2nd shot 6/15: R Hatton. SCOTTSDALE GOLF CLUB
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 26
Men’s Winner - J Wood 43. R/Up: D Knight 38. Women’s Winner - T Taylor 33. R/Up: Julie Collins 32. Longest Putt: J Wood. SGC Longest Putt: H Fletcher. Gobblers - G
Blackwell, L Freeland, J Wood. SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 30
STABLEFORD Winner: T Mundy 39. R/Up: L Dobson 38. Others: R Averay 37, R Shea 35, S Krushka 35, W Howlett 34 NTP 1/10: S Krushka, 5/14: S Krushka. Longest Putt - C Dobson RINGAROOMA GOLF CLUB
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 1
BILLY TORRENTS STABLEFORD Winner: M Summers 41. R/Up: L
MOORINA
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 30
STABLEFORD
Winner: L Rattray 34. R/Up: K Wagner 33. T Taylor 31, R Nichols 30. NTP 3/12 L Rattray. L/P 9/18 D Rattray. Match play winner: L Rattray. Medal winner: L Rattray.
Mc Dougall 39. Third: D Bean 37. Fourth: S Burr 36. NTP 1/10 S Burr, 5/14 M Summers, 7/16 M Summers, 9/18 R Bennett.
GOLF CLUB
• Peter Gutwein is set to become the NTFA's new President.
Awesome Archie aims for Olympics
ST HELENS District High School athlete Archie Gilbert will return home from the School Sports Australia National championships with a complete set of medals after some mammoth performances.
The grade five student won the 11-year boys Tetrathlon event, before winning a bronze in the individual discus and a silver in the individual shot put.
Archie was selected for the Tasmanian team to compete at Sydney Olympic Park after solid performances at the State event held in Hobart last month.
The tetrathlon involves four events, with each event worth different points based on times or distances recorded.
On day one he finished 6th in his 100m, earning 295 points and won the long jump with a new School Sports Australia record leap of 4.68m to earn 281 points.
At the end of day 1 Archie was sitting in second place with 576 points.
On day two he won his shot put earning 461 points then earnt himself 324 points in his 800 metres to claim the multi event
title by 109 points.
“It felt incredible to finish the 800 metres and to realise I had won” he said.
Archie then went on to claim bronze in his discus with a throw of 36.74m and then capped off his competition with a silver medal in shot put with a throw of 15.18m.
“I have trained so hard to improve my performance since last year and it has paid off,” he said.
“I'm proud to represent my school and my State and it had been fun meeting kids from other states and to compete against (discus and 200m) World Record holder Lachlan Chappel.
“I am very grateful for the opportunity to do something like this!”
Archie’s long-term goal is to make the Australian team for the Brisbane Olympics in 2032 and says one of his favourite quotes is to never give up on your dreams.
“I just always think ‘quitters never win, winners never quit’,” he said.
Archie is coached for field events by Luke Sulzberger and his running coach is Liz Gray.
• Archie Gilbert is aiming for the Brisbane 2032 Olympics after a successful performance at the School Sports Australia National championships.
Magpies search for new Patron
BY RACHEL WILLIAMS
FORMER PREMIER Peter Gutwein is set to be elevated to NTFA President at the association’s AGM today, leaving Scottsdale to search for a new patron.
Mr Gutwein has been patron of the Magpies for more than a decade and while the club is sad to lose someone of his calibre, they have welcomed his decision to step up to a broader leadership role.
As president, Mr Gutwein plans to ensure the NTFA board is more strategic rather than operational, with hopes a new paid position will be created to manage the finer details of the competition better, he said.
Speaking at the Scottsdale Rec Ground on Monday before he addressed the North East Tasmania Chamber of Commerce meeting, Gutwein said he was keen to develop a thriving football culture across the region.
As the State deals with a major change on the pathway to having its own AFL presence, the NTFA was at a really critical juncture, he said,
“As a footy person I really want to give back,” Gutwein said.
“The NTFA board and current President (Damian Rhind) have done a great job in landing the structure over the last 12 months but it is what we do with it from here that is going to count.
“The North-East will always have a special place in my thinking but what I have to do is consider the NTFA as a whole and importantly work to strengthen all clubs.”
It’s a major change of thinking for Gutwein, who in June this year threw down the gauntlet at North Launceston, labelling the Bombers’ “sooks” given their vocal opposition to the demise of the TSL and their place in the new NTFA Premier League alongside country clubs Scottsdale and Deloraine.
Gutwein said he has spoken to the Bombers this week ahead of his candidacy.
“I said to the North Launceston President on Friday, his role has to be to
ensure that they don’t drop their standard because they are the best team in the State and what we have got to do is aspire for all clubs to get to that level,” Mr Gutwein said. He said he would continue to work with Scottsdale in its push to re-establish itself competitively on field.
“Obviously I have been involved in the search for a coach at Scottsdale and it is challenging but there is a great product to sell – a country club that is 20 minutes to the beach with mountain biking, schools and pathway programs with juniors and we have to ensure that the product we have got is well understood and I believe that over time we will recruit the type of
