Journeys Oct/Nov 2021

Journeys YOUR RACT MEMBER MAGAZINE // OCT / NOV 2021

This issue

FIND ME ON THE FARM

The Huon Valley’s top

farm tours

A dry guide to wine country The year in review for RACT

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contents.

OCT / NOV 2021

25

07

Welcome note

35

0-100 review

08

Hear from our President

Inbox

36

Road test

Our members share what’s on their minds

RACT year in review

12

17

The highlights of the past year

Looking back at the 2020–21 financial year

Board election and AGM

The Board nominees and Annual General Meeting

lifestyle

55 inside

Photos: Ness Vanderburgh; Nina Hamilton; Felons Corner

In the vines

An essential guide to Tasmanian wine country for every designated driver. on the cover On assignment for Journeys in the Huon Valley, local photographer Chris Crerar met the star attractions at Highland Getaway.

Our branches are open Mon–Fri 8.45am to 5pm For customer service, call 13 27 22 For roadside assistance, call 13 11 11 anytime Visit ract.com.au Email journeys@ract.com.au

43

21

25

26

28

What’s on

The latest on our island

A mile in their shoes

Meet the producer of Open House Hobart

Foodie finds

Jamming with the CWA

The 2021 Hyundai Kona Highlander TTR Nissan Leaf e+ test drive

travel

43

Travel news

47

The pit stop

50

Valley of plenty

55

A dry wine tour

Local travel happenings A day in scenic Bicheno

Farm tours in the Huon The designated driver’s guide to wine country

community

61

The latest

64

Changing gears

67

Learner road safety

RACT community news

The big issues affecting RACT and our members Helping learners go solo

71

Member rewards

drive

73

Puzzles

31

74

Rear view

Wellness

Take the plunge with a bout of ocean swimming

Auto news

News from the car world

Great member savings The crossword and quiz Your snaps of Tasmania

Have your say on Member Hub and social media

To unsubscribe from Journeys, visit ract.com.au/update

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Straight

Curved

welcome.

ABOUT YOUR RACT PRESIDENT Kathryn Westwood VICE PRESIDENTS Alison Flakemore Jenny Richardson BOARD Josephine Archer, Peter Dixon, Ralph Doedens, Jude Franks, Phil Jones, Risden Knightley, Pieter Kolkert, Sue Smith RACT GROUP CEO Mark Mugnaioni JOURNEYS MANAGING EDITOR Janine Toms

A word from our President It is with a sense of accomplishment that I step down from my role as President and Board member of RACT. It has been a privilege to represent our 210,000 members for 15 years, and to see the growth and maturity of our organisation during that period of time.

It was a shared sense of purpose and values that persuaded me to join the RACT Board in 2006, affording me the opportunity to contribute to shaping the direction of the organisation and overseeing its journey to become more sustainable, relevant and member-focused.

Over this time our membership has doubled; we have invested and/or divested in travel, properties, tourism and insurance; and deployed technology to deliver reliable services and better connect with members.

We have contemporised our Board and governance, evolving from two female directors to now an equal gender balance, limited director tenures and a skills-based approach to appointments and succession.

While change is inevitable, our purpose and commitment to our members and

people remains the same. I am proud of the way our Board, our people and our members adapt to challenges, and for their resilience and commitment to change.

For me personally, it has been rewarding to represent our members in areas where we can truly make a difference, such as saving lives on our roads, rescuing a member in their time of need, or supporting them through hardships or losses from natural disasters or pandemics.

I am passionate about working to improve the safety of our roads. When I joined RACT in 2006, 52 Tasmanian lives were lost on our roads and while I’m heartened to see a reduction since then, there is still much to be done. We must never stop aiming to improve.

I thank our many members who have reached out to me over the years and supported my role on the Board. I’d particularly like to thank our Regional Advisory Committees for their unwavering support of the organisation, our people who assist our members 24/7 across the state and my fellow Board members, past and present, who work tirelessly to ensure our almost 100-year-old member organisation continues to prosper.

Kathryn Westwood // PRESIDENT

Journeys is published for The Royal Automobile Club of Tasmania

by Hardie Grant Media, Building 1, 658 Church Street, Richmond VIC 3121 hardiegrant.com Managing Director Clare Brundle Managing Editor Krysia Bonkowski Art Director Dallas Budde Design Katrina Mastrofilippo & Sue Morony Advertising Sales and Partnerships Director Lauren Casalini laurencasalini@hardiegrant.com Senior Account Manager Amanda Travers amandatravers@hardiegrant.com Printer Ovato Mailhouse D&D Mailing Services Distribution Australia Post Australia Post No. 100003899

Competition terms and conditions can be found at ract.com.au/competitions. No part of Journeys may be reproduced without permission. Copyright 2021 RACT. The opinions contained in this publication may not be shared

by The Royal Automobile Club of Tasmania Limited or its related bodies corporate (together “RACT”) or any of its directors or employees. Advertisements in Journeys are the responsibility of the advertiser. No person should act or rely upon such opinions or advice and RACT accepts no liability for them. Any rewards or rights provided to a member cannot be transferred, assigned, sold or redeemed for cash. Inclusion of a product should not be construed as an endorsement by RACT.

ract.com.au // JOURNEYS

7

inbox.

LETTERS

Information overload

Roundabout response Daphne Longman’s letter (Journeys August– September p. 8) suggests the lack of adherence to roundabout rules may be general. It also seems two other issues exacerbate the problem: small roundabouts and drivers on bigger streets (eg.

Regent and Lord St in Dynnyrne). Drivers on Regent regularly bully their way through, while cars on Lord approach cautiously. The incidence of this is lower on larger ones like those on Acton Road.

One large roundabout, like the one at Carrara in the Gold Coast, would be much cheaper (the site is not hampered by space), safer and more efficient than the confusion being constructed at the Sandfly Huon Road intersection.

Neville Cooper // Dynnyrne

8

JOURNEYS // OCT / NOV 2021

I read with interest the letter ‘Distracted drivers’ in Journeys August–September (p. 9), and I certainly agree that the amount of information in front of drivers is very distracting. I drive a Renault Koleos that has a basic amount of information on the instrument panel and a central screen which is not a distraction at all. When the car was in for a service I received a loan car, a Suburu Subaru XV, and was amazed at just how much distraction there was: not only with the drivers’ instrument panel but also on the central panel and smaller ventilation panel below it.

The instrument panel had so much information that flashed up on a screen that was itself distracting, and then there was the lane changing/deviation information, advisory,and andthe the blind area advisory list goes on. Manufacturers should keep it simple without over-burdening the driver with information and distraction. Mind you, I was impressed with the quality of the reversing camera.

So there we are – a nice car, but complex, I would not buy one. too complex.

Keith Broomfield // Exeter

Thanks for reading!

Please don’t ever stop producing Journeys magazine in print form.

I find it much more enjoyable and easier to read than the digital format. Scanning a page and reading what interests you is much more enjoyable in a magazine than clicking forwards and backwards on a brightly lit screen. I can earmark items of interest for later reading or take my magazine with me when at work or travelling. It’s not always easy accessing emails when out and about, the process being more time-consuming than simply opening a page. If you were to make the magazine in digital format only, I believe I would simply stop reading it. The first digital one I received through emails only held my interest for little more than five minutes.

Gina Anderson // Ulverstone Member for nearly 30 years, since the age of 17

RACT ONLINE

To help gather information for an upcoming government highway corridor study, we took to Facebook to ask: “Have you got any concerns about the Bass Highway between Launceston and Devonport?” Here is what a few of you had to say:

The roads are spot-on – it’s the drivers. Think before you overtake. Simple, really. If you are tired, pull over, have a short walk around then get back in. A five-minute break is better than your relatives and friends going to your funeral. — Chris H. Gunn

Before you consider putting more roads anywhere, you’d best teach the crews that build them how to actually build them correctly – like back in the olden days when roads were constructed in such a great manner they didn’t need partially replacing or patching every six months after they were constructed.

— Kylie Nicholas

Concerns... the whole stretch of road between Deloraine and Devonport is a concern! Specifically the terrible surface condition, with poorly patched potholes and then patched-over patches that just open back up to craters of such a size that you might find sheep sheltering in them. That whole stretch of road is like a slalom course for dodging rim-breaking holes and poor repairs. — Joshua Tadman

WRITE TO US

It has the highest density of freight in the state. It needs to be four lanes and built properly, not just slapped together. The sections that have had work are breaking up after only a very short amount of time. A lot of the infrastructure, such as overpasses, is already in place. Four lanes all the way.

This is the main traffic road that most heavy transport from the ferries and tourists use, and they are met with a patchwork quilt of repair ruts. Every political party for as long as I can remember has promised to make this road a four-lane highway – it is a total disgrace.

— Noel Sheean

— Lindy Dunster

We’re keen to hear your thoughts on any motoring or travel-related topics and auto questions.

Please keep them brief – we reserve the right to edit.

journeys@ract.com.au @ractofficial

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ract.com.au // JOURNEYS

9

RACT year in review

12 / PRESIDENT AND GCEO REPORT 14 / DELIVERING FOR OUR MEMBERS 16 / FINANCIAL SNAPSHOT 17 / YOUR CHANCE TO VOTE 18 / NOTICE OF AGM

11

RACT year in review

Report from the President and GCEO This financial year, we’ve taken significant steps forward in realising the ambitious targets in our FY21–26 Group Strategy, which has a strong focus on our long-term financial sustainability, while always ensuring that our members remain at the heart of our decision-making.

THE FIRST YEAR of the strategy included

taking a series of divestment and investment opportunities to enable us to provide more for our members. The first step in this strategy was the sale of RACT’s portfolio of tourism properties and experiences to our sister club, the NRMA. Our decision to sell these properties was made to allow us to focus on and re-invest in value opportunities for our members.

To this end, the Board decided to increase the Club’s investment in insurance, signing an agreement to acquire the remaining 50% shares of the high-performing RACT Insurance business from our valued partner, Suncorp, subject to the regulatory approval process.

This means that we will now be Tasmania’s only 100% owned and located General Insurer and that the RACT Group can focus even more strongly on improving the experience and value provided to our members.

12

JOURNEYS // OCT / NOV 2021

This financial year has also seen a significant focus on improving road safety for all Tasmanians. It was a horrific year on our roads in 2020, and we’ve seen no improvement to this situation throughout the early part of 2021.

We have advocated strongly for a re-think on road safety because if nothing changes, 175 Tasmanians could die on our roads in the next five years and 1500 be seriously injured.

During the 2021 state election, following extensive lobbying on behalf of our members, we were heartened to see our request for 10-year strategies for our main highways approved. We also prepared our submission to the Tasmanian Legislative Inquiry into road safety, which we see as critical to changing the narrative and addressing the issue.

We were also extremely pleased to gain agreement from the State Government to introduce changes to Slow Down, Move Over legislation to include our own roadside patrols, ensuring our people and our members are safer when breakdowns occur.

Member value We’ve heard from our members that the cost of living is impacting them. One of the necessary but high-cost budget items for many of our members is fuel.

After many years of lobbying, including the lodgement of a petition signed by a significant number of our members, we were pleased to see the implementation of real-time fuel pricing in September 2020. Using the data provided from this initiative, RACT launched our Fuel Saver app in December 2020.

We’ve also helped our members save through our member rewards program with more than 114,000 members saving well over $6 million this financial year. From fuel

to accommodation, dining and fitness, our members used their membership over 1.7 million times to gain valuable savings.

This year, the program grew through our ‘Better Together’ campaign, launched off the back of the hardship many businesses faced with the impacts of COVID-19. More than 100 Tasmanian businesses joined the program for free, with RACT promoting their business to our members, encouraging locals to shop local and help one another.

We also continued our COVID-19 hardship program for individuals, ensuring those hardest hit by the changing financial conditions were able to access assistance.

Having a state-wide presence in Tasmania is important to us and to our 209,000 members.

This year we increased our local call centre presence in Burnie and expanded our virtual call centre network throughout Tasmania, creating regional job opportunities. Together with our branch network we continue to provide personal and accessible local service.

Our hardworking staff across the state continue to deliver on our promise of creating memorable experiences. Across our roadside delivery we helped 179 members every single day of the year, with almost 90% mobilised immediately, getting them back on the road as quickly as possible. Our driver trainers delivered almost 16,000 lessons and our community team presented education sessions to 3824 people, ensuring we have safer, more informed drivers on our roads.

The organisation RACT’s financial position is sound, with the impacts of COVID-19 being less than forecast.

New sales growth and a focus on continual improvement have generated efficiencies, and combined with the sale of our Destinations portfolio, helped the Club to finish the financial year with a better-than-projected performance of $8m net profit after tax.

As a Board, we are also working to ensure our governance processes are appropriate for the business both now and into the future. The Board has undertaken a skills review process, and is building the appropriate assurance, risk and future-proofing structures to enable the RACT Group to prosper into the future.

After five years I will conclude my term as President and Chair and will hand over to a new President, to be elected at a meeting immediately following the November AGM. It has been an honour to have served on behalf of members in overseeing and positioning a stronger, member-focused RACT.

We’ve also helped our members save through our member rewards program, with over 114,000 members saving well over $6 million.

Similarly, we say farewell to our long-time Patron, former Governor Kate Warner, who has provided significant support to RACT during her term, and we warmly welcome Tasmania’s new Governor, Her Excellency Barbara Baker, as the new Club Patron.

In closing, Mark and I acknowledge our RACT Board members, the Senior Leadership Team and our hardworking staff across the organisation for their dedication and valuable contributions throughout the 2020–21 financial year. It has been an intense and productive 12 months with significant change, and their unwavering commitment has helped RACT achieve some incredible goals and set the organisation up for a successful future.

Kathryn Westwood

Mark Mugnaioni

PRESIDENT AND CHAIR

GROUP CEO

See our Annual Report in full at ract.com.au/about-us

ract.com.au // JOURNEYS

13

RACT year in review

Delivering for our me CORPORATE

TOURISM

No. 1 brand in Tasmania

13,133 members stayed 24,734 nights at Destinations properties

4.9% growth in RACT Group revenue 230 new employees inducted 316,965 calls through our call centre 79.6 Net Promoter Score (NPS) 209,516 members reached 30 June 2021

42,476 stays in total across all three properties 25,430 people experienced Gordon River Cruises

INSURANCE

131,000+

Tasmanians covered by RACT Insurance

1746

claims finalised per month

$60m paid in claims

$200,000 paid in community grants

95% renewal rate

14

JOURNEYS // OCT / NOV 2021

mbers MOTORING 16,090 new roadside members 10,142 total batteries sold Average of 179 roadside jobs per day Almost 16,000 driver training lessons 2135 P1 assessments delivered 424 Keys2drive sessions delivered 1816 child restraints fitted Almost 90% of vehicles mobilised (metro areas)

MEMBER VALUE

103,737

members saved $3.75m on their fuel at United Petroleum

13,469

downloads of RACT Fuel Saver app

$6.03m

saved by members in our rewards program

65

premium rewards partners

50%+

of members accessed rewards

$29.41

COMMUNITY 3824 students and experienced drivers engaged in road safety programs 53 Tasmanian suburbs visited 1648 Year 3 and 4 students participated in RACT RoadSafe 453 Year 10-12 students participated in safe driving activities 695 infants engaged through road safety storybook 862 senior drivers engaged in community programs 54 staff members helped 10 organisations through the staff volunteer program

average savings per member

15

RACT year in review

financial snapshot.

RACT Group financial commentary for the 2020–21 financial year.

GROUP REVENUE and share of joint venture

profits increased by 4.9% to $74.7m in FY21 from $71.2m in FY20, despite the impacts of COVID-19.

Underlying revenue from members and guests increased to $61.9m in FY21, up on $60.1m in FY20 but below the pre-COVID FY19 of $64.2m.

Group revenue also included the gain on the sale of the RACT Destinations tourism business in April 2021, together with the 10 months of tourism revenue.

Revenue from membership subscriptions recorded strong growth, increasing by 7.7% to $18.1m in FY21 from $16.8m in FY20.

Commissions on the distribution of RACT Insurance products increased by 9.7% to $12.4m in FY21 from $11.3m in FY20, as a result of increased sales due to competitive pricing and a strong, trusted brand.

Tourism revenue of $27.0m in FY21 was slightly above FY20’s $26.9m but down on FY19’s pre-COVID $32.5m. Tourism activity remained strong up to the date of sale, with activity being domestically focused, but at reduced room rates.

Earnings from joint ventures and investments,

being primarily the half interest in RACT Insurance Pty Ltd, were down. The share of income from RACT Insurance was $4.9m in FY21 compared to FY20’s $6.4m, as a result of higher claims in FY21.

Net profit after tax (NPAT) for the year was $8.0m up on FY20’s NPAT of $2.9m, driven by increased revenue, strong expense management and the gain on the sale of Destinations. Tax expense increased due to the higher profit.

In line with the Group’s strategy to redirect capital and seek an owner to further develop the iconic Destinations assets, the Group successfully sold the three hotels and Gordon River Cruise business to fellow auto club NRMA in a competitive sale process. Funds received from the sale were used to repay all borrowings and contributed to the increased cash on hand of $46.4m at 30 June 2021.

The recent purchase by the Group of the outstanding half share of RACT Insurance from Suncorp will see RACT Insurance become wholly owned, the purchase being funded from cash on hand and new borrowings.

Capital investment for the year was $1.8m, which was lower than FY20’s $3.3m. FY21 saw a shift in the treatment of IT and digital development costs from capital to operating expenditure, as more development was undertaken as part of software as a service, rather than internal RACT development.

FY20 also included a higher capital spend on Destinations’ assets.

Total equity strengthened by 9.1% to $97.1m at year end from FY20’s $89.0m, driven by NPAT performance. Total assets reduced, with the sale of assets previously held by Destinations, being offset by a corresponding reduction in liabilities after repayment of borrowings.

Financial Financial commentary commentary

80

160 160

70

70

140 140

60

60

120 120

50 40 30

16

JOURNEYS // OCT / NOV 2021

40 30

100 100 80

80

60

60

20

20

40

40

10

10

20

20

0

0

0

2021 2021 2017 20172018 20182019 20192020 2020 Net Profit Net Profit After After Tax Tax

50

Millions $

80

Millions $ $ Millions

10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0

Financial Financial Position Position

Millions $

10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0

Millions $

Millions $

Financial Financial Performance Performance

Revenue Revenue

0 2017 2017 2018 2018 2019 2019 2020 20202021 2021 Net Assets Net Assets

Total Total Assets Assets

linethe withGroup’s the Group’s strategy strategy to redirect to redirect capital capital and seek and seek GroupGroup revenue revenue and share and share of joint of venture joint venture profits profits increased increased In lineInwith an owner to further to further develop develop the iconic the iconic Destinations Destinations assets, assets, by 5%by to 5% $74.7m to $74.7m in FY21 infrom FY21 $71.2m from $71.2m in FY20, in FY20, despite despite the the an owner the Group successfully successfully sold the soldthree the three hotelshotels and Gordon and Gordon River River impacts impacts of COVID-19. of COVID-19.

Underlying Underlying revenue revenue from members from members and andthe Group

Your CHANCE TO VOTE

AGM ONLINE

2021 RACT Board Election To vote you’ll need your member number and access to the internet.

Who can vote?

Only members with Roadside Ultimate or Roadside Advantage, Honorary Life Members and Paid Life Members have the right to vote.

How to vote

1

2

3

Visit ract.com.au/ board-election

Enter your member number and surname in the online voting portal

You’re ready to vote

Don’t have online access?

You can request a paper ballot pack be provided to you in the following ways: PHONE 13 27 22 VISIT one of our branches

Register to attend

This year our Annual General Meeting (AGM) will be held online, as well as in person at RACT House, Hobart.

How to attend online Attendance is easy and will work via any internet browser.

Visit ract.com.au/agm to let us know you’re attending.

We’ll send you information and links once you’ve registered.

Proxy votes You can appoint a member who is attending the meeting to lodge your vote on the AGM resolutions even if you can’t attend yourself. This is called a proxy vote.

You can either appoint the member to vote exactly how you want or leave it up to them.

If you don’t know a member who is attending you can nominate the RACT Chairperson to be your proxy.

The Board recommends that all the resolutions be approved so unless you direct the Chairperson otherwise, the Chair will vote in favour of the resolutions.

To register a proxy vote

and address

Visit ract.com.au/agm and enter your member number and surname in the online portal.

REMEMBER / You can only vote once and each vote in the

Follow the instructions online on how to lodge a proxy vote.

EMAIL returningofficer@ract.com.au with your name

ballot is for two candidates. If you vote online as well as by post, only the online vote will be counted. All votes are confidential and the ballot is administered independently.

Important dates VOTING OPENS / 15 October 2021 and closes 5pm

23 November 2021 RESULT / The result will be announced at our AGM

on 30 November 2021. You can attend our AGM online or in person.

Membership enquiries Call us on 13 27 22.

Proxies must be lodged by 5.30pm 28 November 2021.

Vero Voting are the independent administrators for our proxy votes and will look after voting during our AGM and Board Election.

When Our AGM will be at 5.30pm on Tuesday, 30 November 2021.

Contact us to find out more on 13 27 22.

We’ll include a recording of the AGM and the result of all the voting on our website as soon as possible after the meeting.

ract.com.au // JOURNEYS

17

RACT year in review

Notice of annual general meeting.

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the 98th Annual General Meeting of Members of The Royal Automobile

Club of Tasmania Limited will be held at RACT House, 179–191 Murray Street, Hobart, Tasmania and online via ract.com.au/agm on 30 November 2021 commencing at 5.30 pm.

AGENDA

1 To confirm the Minutes of the 97th Annual General Meeting held on 4 November 2020.

2 To receive the Annual Report and Financial Statements for the 12 months ended 30 June 2021.

3 Ordinary Resolutions: Auditor Resignation and Appointment, Board Limit and Directors’ Fees

4 To elect two (2) members to the Board in accordance with Clause 9.10 of the Constitution.

The following nominations have been received: Phil Jones* Hobart (Pharmacist and Company Director)

Ralph Doedens* South Arm (Executive Officer and Company Director)

Allyson Warrington Otago Bay (Chief Executive Officer) *Denotes Retiring Member who is eligible for re-election.

In accordance with the Club’s Constitution, a Ballot for the election of two (2) members to the Board will be conducted between 15 October 2021 and 5pm, 23 November 2021.

5 General Business 6 Any Other Business that may be correctly brought before the meeting.

To consider, and if in favour, pass the following resolution as ordinary resolutions:

Auditor Resignation and Appointment “Noting the notification of intent of the Company’s current auditors, WLF, to resign as auditor of the Company from the end of the 2021 RACT AGM, that, for the purposes of section 327C of the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth) and for all other purposes, KPMG, having consented to act in the capacity of auditor of the Company, be so appointed, and that the Board be authorised to fix the remuneration of the auditor.”

EXPLANATION

Following the announcement of RACT’s purchase of all outstanding shares of RACT Insurance Pty Ltd the RACT Board considered and determined to seek alignment of auditors across the two companies. The RACT Board considered it appropriate to seek the appointment of the current auditors of RACT Insurance Pty Ltd that were appointed more recently and on this basis WLF notified the RACT Board on 30 September 2021 of their intention to resign as auditor at the 2021 RACT AGM and KPMG consented to act as auditor on 1 October 2021.

Board Limit “That without prejudice to its right to do so the Board not be required to appoint three Board Appointed Directors in respect to the period from the end of the 2021 Annual General Meeting up to the end of the 2022 Annual General Meeting.”

EXPLANATION

The Club’s Constitution provides that following 18

JOURNEYS // OCT / NOV 2021

the 2021 Annual General Meeting the Club Board may appoint up to three Board Appointed Directors in addition to nine Member Elected Directors. Despite it forming part of the memberapproved constitution, the maintenance of nine Directors on the Board, being below the maximum of 12 Directors (being nine Member Elected Directors and three Board Appointed Directors) could be considered to be a Board Limit under the Corporations Act and if so then approval at a general meeting of the Club would be required. It is therefore prudent for approval to be sought. The ability for the Board to appoint Board Appointed Directors is contained in the Club’s Constitution to ensure that the Club’s Board has within it what the Board believes are the appropriate skills and experience for the Club should the Member Elected Directors not provide a sufficiently wide skill base.

Director’s Fees

be required of RACT following completion of the purchase of 100% of RACT Insurance Pty Ltd that was agreed, subject to regulatory approval on 1 July 2021.

It is important that RACT can attract directors with the appropriate skills and experience required of the RACT Board and therefore that RACT Director fees are comparable with those available to those individuals elsewhere and are commensurate with the responsibilities, liabilities and duties required of the role.

The amount requested to be approved by members at the 2021 AGM relates to the maximum board size of 12, however subject to the re-assessment of Board skills and experience following the 2021 RACT Board Election, it is not currently expected that all 12 positions will be required and therefore the RACT Board does not intend to allocate the full amount recommended for approval by members in the coming year.

“That in accordance with clause 9.15(a) of the Constitution the annual fees of the Directors of the Club, that in accordance with the Constitution excludes superannuation (clause 9.15(b)), reasonable travel expenses (clause 9.15(f)) and fees for acting as a director of RACT subsidiary and/or joint venture companies (clause 9.15(g)) paid to Club directors, be increased from a projected $407,432 to $610,000, effective from 1st December 2021 to be allocated amongst the Directors as the Board decides and for each subsequent year this limit shall be increased by the annual percentage change in the All Groups Consumer Price Index for Hobart.”

EXPLANATION

The Club’s Constitution provides that the Directors shall be paid remuneration out of the funds of the Club for their services as directors.

The Directors’ remuneration is to be set by the Members in general meeting and is to be limited by a maximum fixed sum which the Board is to allocate between the Directors, as the Board sees fit.

It should be noted that the level of nonexecutive Directors’ fees was last reviewed in 2014.

In considering this matter and making the above recommendation the Board has obtained advice from industry experts, Korn Ferry, who reviewed the marketplace for fees for organisations of similar size that operate in similar industries, noting the increased complexity and regulatory compliance that will

The Royal Automobile Club of Tasmania Limited 179-191 Murray Street Hobart, Tasmania 7000

Michael Hopster Company Secretary/Returning Officer 15 October 2021

ract.com.au // JOURNEYS

19

SPRING

2021 Spring Season Subscriptions now on sale.

Explore the program at tso.com.au.

Subscribe online or call the TSO Box Office on 1800 001 190.

Tasmania’s Orchestra.

Here for you in 2021.

lifestyle Photo: Image supplied by the Department of Primary Industries, Parks, Water and Environment

22/ 25/ 26/ 28/

Hop to it

WHAT’S ON A MILE IN THEIR SHOES FOODIE FINDS WELLNESS

Join Australia’s biggest frog count during FrogID Week (12–21 November). Tasmania is home to 11 frog species, three of which are found nowhere else, like this Tasmanian Tree Frog snapped at Olga River. As a Department of Primary Industries, Parks, Water and Environment (DPIPWE) spokesperson told Journeys, frogs need our help: “Many species of frogs around the world are in decline, with a disease known as chytridiomycosis (a fungal disease) the main cause.” By downloading the free FrogID app and recording frog calls you’ll help scientists gather vital data on frog health and distribution.

P For more, see frogid.net.au P Help DPIPWE by reporting sick or dead frogs. Call 03 6165 4305 or email naturalvaluesconservation.enquiries@dpipwe.tas.gov.au

ract.com.au // JOURNEYS

21

what’s on.

YOUR NEW TO-DO LIST 21 November

IN FULL BLOOM See Woolmers Estate at its most glorious during the Festival of Roses.

The Rose Garden of this heritage 19th-century estate is planted with thousands of roses of all shapes and hues. Even if you can’t make the festival, visit when the blooms are best, in late spring and early summer.

5-7 NOVEMBER

All event details are up to date at time of print, but can change.* For updates, consult organisers directly, and support Tassie’s events industry through these challenging times.

POP THE CORK

Effervescence Tasmania celebrates Tassie’s answer to the Champagne region – the Tamar Valley. Visit some of the region’s best cellar doors during a program full of sparkling degustation dinners, tastings, masterclasses and even live comedy. See effervescencetasmania.com

FARM FRESH

This year, Tom Hardy returns as Venom, one of Marvel’s greatest characters. Directed by Andy Serkis, Venom 2 also stars Michelle Williams, Naomie Harris and Woody Harrelson.

In cinemas only from 25 November.

Keep an eye out for ticket giveaways in your member emails soon!

Welcome the warmer weather during the annual Farmgate Festival. For one weekend, small farms, boutique producers and vineyards all around the Tamar Valley open their doors to offer gourmet produce and host behind-the-scenes tours, picnics, communal lunches, cooking workshops and more.

MEMBER GIVEAWAY

From November

COLOUR ON KUNANYI

©& ™2021 MARVEL. ©2021 CP11. All Rights Reserved.

From November into December, the Tasmanian waratah unfurls in the state’s alpine woodlands. Along with forests around Hartz Mountain, Cradle Mountain and Mount Field, these endemic flowers are best spotted on the Organ Pipes track on kunanyi/Mt Wellington – an ideal excuse to revisit one of Tasmania’s most scenic short walks.

*Due to the ongoing impacts of the global pandemic, we recommend you research any event before heading off to make sure everything is going ahead as planned.

Photos: Alistair Betts; Tourism Tasmania / Stu Gibson / Andrew Wilson; Woolmers Estate

26–28 November In cinemas from 25 November

lifestyle Want to tell us about your event or product?

Reach us on journeys@ ract.com.au

Made in Tas Mask up in true Tassie fashion thanks to gift shop Lily & Dot. Featuring original illustrations by local artist John Fibbens, the triple-layer reusable masks come in playful patterns such as the Tasmanian tiger and Tasmanian devil designs. Find in-store at 150 Elizabeth St, Hobart or ship anywhere in Australia (with free gift-wrapping thrown in). Visit lily-and-dot.myshopify.com

Spring reading

Principles of Style Styling and hosting guru Sarah Andrews shares the design insights that she applied to Captain’s Rest – one of Tassie’s most iconic shack stays.

Cultural closings and openings

Soil

Since Journeys August–September went to print, the Makers’ Workshop (as seen in The pit stop, p. 39) has sadly been forced to close its doors due to the dropoff in tourism visitation caused by the pandemic. But as one stage comes to an end for the Burnie cultural hub, the University of Tasmania is busy planning its renewal as a dynamic community asset – stay tuned.

In Hobart, The Hedberg is a new cultural and performing arts precinct with global aspirations, designed by local firm LIMINAL Architecture (which was also behind the Freycinet Coastal Pavilions). The development incorporates the Theatre Royal, Australia’s oldest working theatre, and new creative spaces for the University of Tasmania. With the arts doing it tough lately, your local artistic hubs need your support.

Tiny Possum and the Migrating Moths

Matthew Evans of Fat Pig Farm celebrates one of our most precious resources – soil – and reminds us to look closer at what’s beneath our feet.

Hobart artist Ben Clifford is behind the beautiful illustrations that bring this tale of the critically endangered mountain pygmypossum to life.

WHAT’S BLOOMING?

with SADIE CHRESTMAN from Fat Pig Farm The winter veg have bolted and the garden is filled with flowers: yellow broccoli and swede blooms, delicate white striped rocket, large white carrot umbels and leek pom poms. It’s also filled with insects. Mainly European honey bees, but also tiny pollinating flies, strange blue wasps that look like giant ants, hover flies whose larvae gobble up aphids and, hidden in the herb patch, native bees out of hibernation. At Fat Pig Farm, we aim to have a rich diversity of flowers and insects keeping each other in balance. The summer vegetables are ready to go in after the last frost (Huon Show day for us). Lots of tomatoes and zucchini, plus eggplants, cucumbers and melons for the greenhouse. Melons!

Now there’s a treat. We cosset our cold-climate rockmelons (there are never many), checking each leaf for pests, side dressing with compost and applying fortnightly seaweed and comfrey foliar sprays. Some years they’re hard and bland.

And some they are worth every loving minute, as we sink our teeth into fruit that is rich, soft, fragrant and chin-dribblingly juicy.

Sow now tomatoes, zucchini, cucumber Harvest now snow and snap peas, broad beans ract.com.au // JOURNEYS

23

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JOSIE RESHAPES HER LIFE Do you remember your New Year’s resolution?

At this time of the year most of us don’t, however, if you did make one it was likely related to losing weight, becoming fitter or making a positive lifestyle change.

When Josie started at Personal Best she was struggling with her health – she was unable to exercise and had back, neck and shoulder pain that had put her in hospital on a number of occasions.

Josie wanted to overcome the chronic fatigue that she had experienced for the past five years and get back to the active lifestyle she had enjoyed in her 20s and 30s.

“Like most people I was aware of the benefits of improving my fitness and I knew that I needed to learn how to move correctly again, as with every ‘comeback’ I would hurt my body in some way when I tried to do it myself,” she says. “I did not want to be steered into a mainstream, generic exercise program but rather one that was individual, specific and tailored to all of my needs.”

Feeling like life was passing her by, Josie decided that she needed the commitment that a personal trainer provides and wanted to work with someone that understood her needs, who could help her manage her back pain and who was very patient and encouraging.

For Josie, having the support from her personal trainer Fran has been the key factor in improving her strength, posture and energy levels. This in turn built her confidence and allowed Josie to get back to being in control of her body, rather than her body dictating to her what she could and couldn’t do.

“Fran educated me on why and how, rather than just telling me what to do. She has this remarkable ability to know exactly what my body needs,” Josie says.

“I went from being extremely frustrated with being unwell and lacking in energy, to going bushwalking and doing field work for my business. I am now planning a multiple-day bushwalking trip, something that I could never have imagined doing a year ago. Being active also helps me manage the stress of running a business with a team of 20.”

Josie’s back pain would keep her awake at night, now she enjoys pain-free sleep without medication and no longer feels

she ‘misses out’ on life, as she can still do much of what she did in her 30s.

“It’s been a life-changing experience to build my body and energy levels and, after six years of putting my life on hold, I can now do all the things that I enjoy.”

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lifestyle

A mile in THE SHOES OF A

festival director

Photos: Nina Hamilton

“

I

Jennifer Nichols is the founder and producer of Open House Hobart.

Cheese twists keep her team going as they develop an expanding program and implement another year of COVID-safe plans, writes Dale Campisi.

t’s always busy and always fun,” Jennifer says of producing Tasmania’s largest architecture festival.

Jennifer was drawn to architecture because it combined her passions for geography, science and creativity, but says it wasn’t until she began studying it at university – and living in a range of houses – that she truly began to understand the power of architecture.

“You don’t know what you don’t know,” she says. “You might feel depressed, but you don’t know why. As a uni student I lived in a house with poor light and heating; moving to a house with good light and solar gain I was able to directly experience how architecture can impact your quality of life.”

Now in its ninth year, Open House attracts tens of thousands of people behind the scenes of Tasmania’s built environment. There’s now a dedicated Launceston festival as well as opens in heritage towns such as Oatlands and Richmond.

The catalyst for establishing Open House – a global celebration of architecture and design – locally was to help Tasmanians understand the benefits of architecture for people and places.

“It’s not just about designer homes,” Jennifer explains. “It’s also about heritage, infrastructure and even signage. The TasWater substation in Hobart, for instance, does important work for our city. Seeing inside it you can really appreciate just how complex the systems are that keep our cities going.

“Tasmania also has a unique architecture that is all about place. Hobart and Launceston are very different – one anchored by its working [environment] and its majestic mountain, the other by its river and dramatic gorge. They wear their histories in their buildings too – Hobart dominated by Georgian-era sandstone, Launceston by Victorian-era brick.”

Producing the festival is a community effort, Jennifer says. “It’s made possible by the hundreds of volunteers who donate their time and the owners too, who take a leap of faith to open their homes and buildings to the public. It’s a beautiful expression of civic pride.”

Join Open House Hobart from 13–14 November.

Find out more at openhousehobart.org

ract.com.au // JOURNEYS

25

lifestyle

Spreading the FOODIE finds

love

Hobart’s chapter of the beloved Country Women’s Association shares the secret of perfect preserves with Krysia Bonkowski.

Photos Lochie Bevis

SANDWICHED BETWEEN A BUSY CAFE AND AN EDGY BARBERSHOP on Elizabeth Street, the CWA Gift Shop brings a slice of country goodness to the heart of Hobart.

The day’s baked goods are displayed in the window alongside cookbooks and a collection of hand-knitted tea cosies. Fresh flowers and local produce sit on the pavement out front.

The Tassie chapter of the Country Women’s Association (CWA) formed in the 1930s to represent women and children, particularly in rural communities. Opening in 1942, the Hobart gift shop gave CWA members a place to sell their wares and help support their families during lean times.

Nearly 80 years on, it’s Hobart’s favourite place to pick up a homemade cake for the office morning tea or wholesome handmade gifts such as knitted toys and baby bonnets. And, of course, jam.

26

JOURNEYS // OCT / NOV 2021

lifestyle

“People have their thing and they stick to it.

And you don’t tread on other people’s toes.”

THIS SPREAD

(Clockwise from top left) Johanna Warren on right with CWA shop volunteers, homemade jam, sweets in the window; woolly toys for sale, Elizabeth Street.

An entire wall of the Hobart shop is dominated by glass jars and plastic tubs.

Arrayed across the shelves are dozens of preserves, pickles and syrups, each carefully labelled with the number of its creator (with egalitarian spirit, all CWA makers and bakers are identified by number rather than name). The Hobart CWA boasts 15 or so regular jam makers, with fresh batches dropped off daily.

It sounds like a re cip e for healthy competition, but shop manager Johanna Warren (opposite page, top right) insists it’s all very friendly. “People have their thing and they stick to it. And you don’t tread on other people’s toes.”

Devotees still have their favourites – whether it’s #10 and her classic berry jams or more unconventional combinations such as white peach and rosewater or an Asianinspired plum sauce.

‘Grandma skills’ like preserving have experienced a resurgence in recent times, which peaked last year when travel restrictions and remote work inspired a home-cooking

frenzy. Johanna and her team of volunteer shopkeepers saw demand for jam-making equipment, such as preserving bottles, soar.

“They all got into it,” she laughs. “But now that they’re all back at work, they come here.”

To the ladies of the CWA, making jams, preserves and pickles is no flash in the pan.

It’s a skill learned from mothers, aunts and grandmothers, perfected through countless fruit seasons.

In anticipation of our arrival, Johanna has done an email call-out to the local CWA network for their top jam-making tips. “Do not add sugar when the fruit is boiling,” one of the grand dames of jam offers. “Freeze fresh fruit while it’s in season, so you can make jam throughout the year,” another suggests.

Between them, there are hacks for mastering chutneys and marmalades, tips for perfecting tomato relish, and the secret to proper sweetening, setting and sealing.

In our hands, typed up neatly on an A4 sheet, we hold decades of knowledge – a preserving cheat sheet. But for now, we’re more than happy to leave matters to the experts. We depart the CWA Gift Shop with a jar of classic raspberry jam: #10 has earned herself a new fan.

Visit the CWA Gift Shop at 1/165 Elizabeth St, Hobart, open Monday to Saturday (check hours online).

ract.com.au // JOURNEYS

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lifestyle

Swimming

I

SOUL

t’s a sunny June day on the Tasman Peninsula when I come off Three Capes Track feeling warm to the core after my morning hike. There’s barely a breeze but the sea percussively plays the pebbly shore of Fortescue Bay and, further along, pounds the sand. I quietly peel away from my group, strip to my merino underwear and hit the frigid waves for an invigorating 10-minute dip and dive before a rewarding sun-bask.

Fast forward a month to a windy, overcast, six-degree July morning when I join the Weedy Seadragons for their regular Saturday social ocean swim. Or, at least, that’s the plan.

Driving at dawn towards Kingston in the traditional homeland of the Muwinina, I’m nagged by the thought that a scheduled cold-water winter experience is really not my modus operandi.

Even before 8am on a Saturday, Kingston Beach is bustling but the Weedies are unmissable. A group of about 25 adults,

28

JOURNEYS // OCT / NOV 2021

wearing wetsuits and full-length fleece-lined parkas over swimming skins, collectively buzz with the frenetic energy of people fighting the elements and sharing a challenge.

I’m warmly welcomed in the bracing wind.

Spokesperson Harald Gatenby tells me the Weedies swim all year-round. Early in the pandemic, when aquatic centres closed, even more people got hooked on ocean swimming and joined them. They get a bigger summer turnout of their 150-plus members and occasionally instigate a swim to Blackmans Bay for those up for some scenic distance.

As Harald talks and I get colder, my window of opportunity to submerge closes, yet I’m quietly relieved. Swimmers who’ve been freestyling parallel to shore for more than half an hour are starting to get out but, despite the dismal weather and 12-degree water, they walk up the beach visibly hyped with eyes shining. There’s even hugging.

Ricardo Fonseca tells me a friend invited him earlier in the year. “I’ve never stopped,” he

Photos: Tourism Tasmania / Rob Burnett; Newspix / Luke Bowden

for the

lifestyle

Taking the plunge in Tasmania’s bracing waters is as exhilarating as it is healing, writes Elspeth Callender.

says. “I feel like a superhero. It’s invigorating and you feel energetic.” Queensland-born Hayley Kupke stands grinning against the backdrop of grey, choppy sea. “I’m addicted,” she says. “I still hate the cold, but love the ocean and the openness. It’s like I’ve achieved something every time… feels euphoric.”

So-called wild swimming is trending worldwide but, like so much wellnessrelated and nature-based, it’s an old practice in a new package. For many, this is simply swimming. And for palawa (First Nations peoples of lutruwita), this saltwater Country is not ‘wild’ but rather an integral part of their extraordinarily long story of health, wellbeing and genuine sustainability.

D r ie d - o f f a nd r ug g e d - u p We e d ie s recongregate in a Kingston cafe where I learn that, along with the social aspect, people take part for fitness, bragging rights and to appreciate the natural environment above and below the surface. Cath Towns joined while dealing with some trauma. “Finding

“I still hate the cold, but love the ocean and the openness. It’s like I’ve achieved something every time.” [that] rhythm of breathing in the water helps me in my everyday life to find calm.”

Similar clubs around the state include Tomatoes Swim on Hobart’s eastern shore, Bicheno Coffee Club and the Happy Fish at St Helens. Winter Ocean and Sea Swimming Association (WOSSA), is the winter off-shoot of Taroona’s summer swim club (TOSSA) and strictly no wetsuits.

“If I wasn’t swimming in a group in winter I wouldn’t go,” says Weedy member Catherine Stringer. “Once you’ve put your things out the night before, you don’t notice the morning frost on the grass or ice on the car.” This former runner also appreciates how little equipment is required. “It’s a different sort of buzz to running. I like it better.”

THIS PAGE

(Left to right) The Weedies wade in; Bicheno Coffee Club on the East Coast.

Dip a toe in ocean swimming this spring or summer.

Most swim clubs welcome beginners and often list public meet times on their social channels.

ract.com.au // JOURNEYS

29

Photos: Name Here

drive Mazda’s EV evolution

32 / AUTO NEWS 35 / 0–100 REVIEW: HYUNDAI KONA HIGHLANDER TTR

36 / ROAD TEST: NISSAN LEAF

Like many car makers today, Mazda is busy reinventing itself and its product line-up in response to the shift to electric vehicles (EVs). The company has said a quarter of all its new models globally will be pure EVs by 2030, with all other models to have some elements of electrification.

One of the first fruits of this labour arrived earlier this year in the form of the MX-30 M Hybrid, which has now been joined by the MX-30 Electric E35. The pair share the same attractively styled compact SUV body, with its coupe-like profile and unconventional reverse-opening ‘freestyle’ doors.

Available in a single high-grade Astina variant, the MX-30 E35 costs a hefty $65,490, plus on-road costs, but boasts an excellent ANCAP five-star safety rating. Performance is brisk, courtesy of a 35.5kWh lithium-ion battery pack and synchronous electric motor sending 107kW/271Nm to the front wheels. However, with a range of 224km, Mazda’s first EV lags behind rivals such as Hyundai’s Kona EV, which can cover 484km on a charge.

Photos: Mazda

P For more, visit mazda.com.au

ract.com.au // JOURNEYS

31

auto news.

The latest developments in the car world

Toyota Land Cruiser goes platinum

Land Cruiser, by numbers

1951

The year Toyota released the BJ 4WD for use

by Japan’s National Police Reserve Forces.

The military-style 4x4 featured open sides, a folding fabric roof and a 3.4-litre six-cylinder petrol engine.

3775

The Toyota Land Cruiser marked its 70th anniversary on 1 August. It debuted in Japan on that day in 1951, badged the Toyota BJ. It would be another three years before the Land Cruiser name appeared on the side of the ruggedly utilitarian off-roader, but the moniker has since gone on to adorn more than 10 million vehicles worldwide. Toyota Australia is marking the Cruiser’s platinum anniversary with a special-edition 70 Series, available in three body styles and with unique interior and exterior features.

Arriving in dealerships in September, just 600 examples of the 70th Anniversary Land Cruiser will be built, including 320 double cabs, 200 single cabs and 80 wagons, with prices starting from $78,500 (MRLP*). Land Cruiser fanatics who miss the cut can console themselves with the knowledge the all-new 300 Series arrives in the fourth quarter. For more, visit toyota.com.au *manufacturer’s recommended list price

32

JOURNEYS // OCT / NOV 2021

The height in metres of Mount Fuji, upon which fearless Toyota test driver Ichiro Taira steered a prototype BJ to the sixth of 10 checkpoints during the vehicle’s development.

1955

The year that the secondgeneration Land Cruiser was released, following the adoption of the name in 1954. It featured a redesigned look, more suited to civilian use.

24

The years the legendary 40-Series Land Cruiser remained in production, following its 1960 launch.

Although not the first Land Cruiser to land in Australia, it marked the beginning of the model’s acceptance as a mainstream workhorse.

drive

Tassie takes charge Tasmanian electric vehicle (EV) drivers will soon find it easier to charge their vehicles here and on the mainland, thanks to a new initiative that will see more than 400 public fast-charging stations for EVs rolled out nationwide. In what the Electric Vehicle Council described as “great news for Australia’s electric vehicle sector”, the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) recently announced $24.55 million in funding to five applicants across 19 projects, to expand Australia’s fast-charging network for battery electric vehicles. Cofunded by the Federal Government’s Future Fuels Fund, the initiative will see Evie Networks install five new public fast-charging stations, each featuring two fast chargers, in Hobart and surrounding areas, while Electric Highway Tasmania (EHT) will build five more fast-charging stations in Hobart. For more, visit arena.gov.au

Haval’s second take Chinese automotive brands have been powering ahead in Australia, with the likes of MG (+233%), LDV (+116%) and GWM (+268%) all registering impressively strong year-to-date results. Boosting those figures for GWM (formerly Great Wall Motors) is the Haval Jolion, a new compact SUV that replaces the unloved Haval H2 and competes with Hyundai’s Kona and MG’s ZS. Roomier than most rivals, thanks to a wheelbase closer to a mid-sized SUV, the Jolion is well equipped and sharply priced, starting from $25,490 driveaway for the entry level ‘Premium’, rising to $30,990 driveaway for the ‘Ultra’. It is powered by a 1.5-litre turbo petrol four-cylinder engine, putting 110kW/210Nm to the front wheels via a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. There’s no ANCAP rating yet, but every model boasts an impressive array of advanced electronic safety aids, including a camera-based driver fatigue monitoring system. There’s peace of mind for prospective buyers too, with a seven-year unlimited kilometre warranty, five-year roadside assistance and a competitive Capped Price Service program.

For more, visit gwmhaval.com.au

Make your investment go the distance NET RETURN ON INVESTMENT

NET RETURN ON INVESTMENT

CURRENT PERFORMANCE:

Photos: Evie; Toyota; Haval

2.45%

p.a*

LAST QUARTER PERFORMANCE:

2.47%

p.a*

LAST YEAR PERFORMANCE:

2.52%

p.a*

Returns are net of fees and are likely to change in line with changes in market interest rates. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance. There is a risk that an investment in the fund will achieve lower than expected returns. An investment in the fund is an equity investment in a managed investment scheme. It is not a bank deposit. An investor faces a higher risk of losing some or all their investment than is the case with a bank deposit. This information does not take into account the investment objectives, financial situation or particular needs of any investor. Before making any investment decision, investors should consider taking professional advice.

Professional, personal, face–to–face service. Call the MCMF team today.

(03) 6235 9311 mcmf.com.au Head Office 10 Victoria Street Hobart TAS 7000

*Average annualised rate for the week/quarter/year ending 24/08/21. Investors interested in investing in the Fund must complete an application form attached to the current Product Disclosure Statement that is available from Murdoch Clarke Mortgage Fund 10 Victoria Street, Hobart or at www.mcmf.com.au.

Murdoch Clarke Mortgage Fund ARSN 093 255 559 Responsible Entity: Murdoch Clarke Mortgage Management Limited ABN 84 115 958 560 Australian Financial Services Licence Number 296758 Australian Credit Licence Number 296758

ract.com.au // JOURNEYS

33

Motors.

Tasmania’s Home of Hyundai.

Burnie Motors Hyundai

Hobart Motors Hyundai

60 Marine Terrace Burnie TAS 7320 (03) 6419 7969

Cnr Collins & Barrack St Hobart TAS 7000 (03) 6122 0208

Launceston Motors Hyundai

Devonport Motors Hyundai

Cnr Margaret & York St Launceston TAS 7228 (03) 6332 9101

Don Road Devonport TAS 7310 (03) 6459 2608

Motors. Since 1910.

motorshyundai.com.au/contact-us/

drive

0 -100 review

HYUNDAI KONA HIGHLANDER TTR SUV

Since we last reviewed the Kona in Journeys, Hyundai has delivered a timely overhaul of its compact SUV to keep it at the pointy end of this ultra-competitive group.

Story Harry Weller

Photos: Hyundai

WITH A FRESH FACELIFT EARLIER THIS YEAR, the 2021 Hyundai Kona is tasked with gunning for gold in the hotly contested small SUV segment. It’s a field studded with quality competitors, including the market-leading MG ZS – along with the Mazda CX-30, Nissan Qashqai and Kia Seltos, to name a few.

This update sees the Kona’s basic underpinnings and proportions carryover unchanged, but fresh front and rear styling ensure it won’t be confused with its predecessor. Driveaway pricing for the eight-variant model range starts from $28,990–$48,684 for the Kona, with the Kona Highlander EV rising to $64,242–$69,957, including two new sporty N Line models, with 1.6-litre turbo four-cylinder petrol engine and all-wheel drive.

Other models, including our test vehicle, are powered by a 2.0-litre petrol fourcylinder engine, driving the front wheels via a continuously variable transmission (CVT).

THE SPECS PRICING • Driveaway $42,448 SAFETY • ANCAP 5 Stars (2017) ENGINE TYPE • Transverse, in-line 4-cylinder petrol, DOHC, with dual continuously variable valve timing (D-CVVT), Atkinson cycle ENGINE CAPACITY • 2.0L (1999cc) MAX. TORQUE • 180Nm @ 4500rpm MAX. POWER • 110kW @ 6200rpm TRANSMISSION • CVT SmartStream Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT) with sequential manual mode FUEL CONSUMPTION • 6.2L/100km (Combined); 8.3L/100km (Urban)

The move from a torque-converter automatic to CVT is the biggest change to the Kona’s mechanical package, delivering a significant 14 per cent improvement in fuel efficiency.

With its eight virtual gears and a sequential manual mode, the CVT is thankfully without the droning, elastic feel of some equivalents.

Other than this, the interior has had a major overhaul and now looks more stylish, thanks to the addition of classy two-tone leather finishes, and a pair of 10.25-inch displays.

The new digital instruments mimic analogue dials but cleverly change colour according to which of the four drive-modes are selected.

The handsomely finished cabin features a generous list of standard features including wireless smartphone charging, satellite navigation, and Apple CarPlay or Android Auto connectivity. Other luxury touches include a heated steering wheel, keyless entry and go, heated and cooled front seats, reversing camera, tyrepressure monitoring, and head-up display [which projects driving information onto a transparent panel in the driver’s line of sight].

Safety-wise, the Kona boasts six airbags plus a swag of advanced ‘SmartSense’ safety features, earning it an ANCAP five-star rating.

With its above-average ride and handling, thanks to extensive local chassis tuning, updated drivetrain, fresh looks and new tech, the Highlander remains a sophisticated standout in this dynamic category. ract.com.au // JOURNEYS

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ROAD Dale Campisi tries out the future of cars with a drive to New Norfolk in the 100% electric Nissan Leaf e+.

Photos Stu Gibson

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Photos: Name Here

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TEST ract.com.au // JOURNEYS

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drive

I

f we assume that the average lifespan of a car is around 10 years, it is quite likely that your current car will be the last one you own that is powered by an internalcombustion engine and fuelled solely with petrol.

An electric future is becoming a reality today, which is how we find ourselves testing out one of the frontrunners of the race, the Nissan Leaf e+.

The increasing market visibility of electric vehicles (EVs) like the Leaf is largely due to rapid improvements in battery production. Just a decade ago, lithium-ion batteries were $1100 per kilowatt-hour (kWh). Today they are around $100 per kWh. Bloomberg recently reported that by 2023 car manufacturers would be able to sell EVs for the same price as traditional combustion-engine vehicles.

Car manufacturers are driving the growth in sales. Of the world’s 20 largest manufacturers, 18

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(Clockwise from top right) On the Lyell Highway, inside Drill Hall Emporium, the Leaf at Willow Court, parked at the Emporium.

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JOURNEYS // OCT / NOV 2021

So, what does it feel like behind the wheel of a car of the future?

plan to increase EV production, and at least 10 of them have self-imposed targets to go 100% electric. Already there are 31 different EVs on the market. Next year there will be 58.

A number of governments, including Norway, Sweden, Iceland, Ireland and the Netherlands, have already committed to banning sales of internal-combustion engine vehicles by 2030.

Without a car manufacturing industry, there’s no question Australia will be going electric too.

So, what does it feel like behind the wheel of a car of the future? Style-wise, the Nissan Leaf e+ looks like any other small- to medium-sized car

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(Top to bottom) Stopping off for coffee at Black Swan, crossing the River Derwent.

THE SPECS PRICING • $64,990 SAFETY • ANCAP 5 Stars (2018) ENGINE TYPE • AS synchronous electric motor BATTERY CAPACITY • 62kWh RANGE • 385km battery-only MAX. TORQUE • 340Nm @ 3283rpm MAX POWER • 160kW BODY STYLE • Hatchback TRANSMISSION • Automatic DRIVE TYPE • 2WD SEATING • 5 FUEL TYPE • Electricity 0-100KM/H • 6.9 seconds

on the market, just with leather seats. Intelligent Mobility provides a 360-degree view of your surroundings – keeping you out of trouble and inside the lines of your parking space at the shops.

Emissions aside, weight is the characteristic that sets this car apart – it’s about 100kg heavier than, say, a Toyota Corolla. Coupled with individual wheel braking, it makes for a smooth ride along the curves of the Lyell Highway toward New Norfolk. Nevertheless, it can also move from zero to 100km/h in under seven seconds.

As for the difference between the Leaf e+ and its base-model counterpart, that comes down to battery size. The e+ comes with a 62kWh battery, which delivers a range of 385km – effectively banishing the thought of range anxiety.

The B-Mode e-Pedal braking feature will be of particular interest to drivers keen to maximise their battery performance. When the e-Pedal is engaged, automatic braking is provided as soon as you ease off the accelerator, which delivers regenerative charge.

The early morning jerry lifts as we cruise into Mood Food in New Norfolk. This is currently the last fast charge point before Derwent Bridge, midway to the next in Queenstown. The 50kW fast charger with its easy-to-use terminal will fully recharge most EVs in under an hour, at a merciful distance from the petrol bowsers.

(You can also recharge the Leaf’s lithium-ion battery at home on a standard 240v electrical socket in about eight hours.)

Next, we seek coffee at Black Swan. You’ll find this petite cafe and specialist bookshop tucked away on Stephen Street in New Norfolk ract.com.au // JOURNEYS

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drive

– a light-filled addition to a town in the middle of a contemporary renaissance. Black Swan has attention to detail in spades: from the curated collection of books to coffee and cakes, and impressive joinery underfoot.

Up the street, sisters and empire builders Tammy and Donna Baird and mother Sue are receiving new stock at the Drill Hall Emporium.

You can easily lose an hour exploring the array of antique country house furniture, kitchenware, hardware and paintings sourced from across the world. Next door, Miss Arthur sells homewares, and Flywheel a short walk away is the sisters’ own letterpress studio and stationery goods store.

On our way out of town we drive through historic Willow Court, with its avenue of vintage car bodies. The future really is electric, and it’s comfortably guilt-free inside a Nissan Leaf e+.

On the road? Roadside assistance is there, 24/7, on 13 11 11.

Test drive the Nissan Leaf e+ at Hobart Nissan and Motors Nissan Launceston.

Tasmania’s electric evolution State government has been busy paving the way for a new generation of affordable EVs. From 1 July this year, the Tasmanian Government waived stamp duty for buyers of new and used EVs. That reduces the cost of an EV by about $2000, on average.

Tasmania will also introduce a road user charge for zero- and low-emission vehicles from 1 July 2027, or when zero- and low-emissions vehicles make up 30% of all new vehicle sales. This will ensure that drivers of these vehicles contribute their fair share towards the funding of Tasmanian roads.

Need a charge?

Members save 20% at Chargefox ultra-rapid charging stations nationwide. Members can also save with local renewable energy specialist I Want Energy, which is collaborating with Chargefox on the EV charger rollout.

Find out more on page 62.

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HOLDEN

drive

70 ANNIVERSARY WATCH TH

Official Tribute to Australia’s Favourite Car

Engraved with “She’s a Beauty!” Prime Minister Ben Chifley’s affirmation of the 48-215 and your watch’s edition number. Respond quickly to get one of the coveted low numbers!

Three chronographic sub dials offer a versatile stopwatch function WORLDWIDE EDITION LIMIT

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Deluxe presentation box creates the perfect gift for a Holden driver

Over 70 years ago, Holden’s 48-215 was launched to an ecstatic Australian public. More than 70 years later, Holden remains Australia’s favourite car. Now, you can celebrate our beloved icon with the “Holden 70th Anniversary Watch” which takes you into the next 70 years in gleaming style!

The watch case is plated in shimmering gold enhancing its strength and making it shine with a pride that Holden drivers know well. The watch face features a Holden logo with “70” making a heartfelt statement of the enduring bond Holden has with Australia. Three chronographic sub dials give you accuracy as well as a handy stopwatch function. A wealth of Holden icons are engraved through the design including “She’s a Beauty!”

Prime Minister Ben Chifley’s affirmation of the 48-215 which has been voiced by Australians in every successive generation of Holdens. Your watch’s individual issue number is engraved on the back. It’s a hallmark that assures your watch is an official part of an edition which celebrates the greatest name in motoring!

Photos: Name Here

Please Respond Promptly

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Credit criteria may apply. Our privacy policy is available online at www.bradford.com.au. You must be over 18 years old to apply. From time to time, we may allow carefully screened companies to contact you. If you would prefer not to receive such offers, please tick this box. q

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Complete with a Certificate of Authenticity and deluxe gift box, this handsomely crafted watch is an exceptional value which can be yours for just 5 instalments of $69.99 or $349.95, plus $19.99 postage and handling, and is backed by our 120-day guarantee. Limited to just 1,948 numbered editions, you’ll need to act fast! Send no money now. Just return the coupon or go online today at www.bradford.com.au/holden

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travel Head for the hills

44 / TRAVEL NEWS 47 / THE PIT STOP

50 / VALLEY OF PLENTY 55 / A DRY GUIDE TO WINE COUNTRY

Watched over by the hulking form of Mount Roland, Felon’s Corner is an idyllic hideout from the world. In its own charmed corner of the state’s north-west, just outside of the rural hamlet of Sheffield, the chic two-bedroom cabin started welcoming guests this winter just past. It’s the debut accommodation offering at Van Diemen Rise, an atmospheric 90-acre property being transformed by local couple Monica Mineur and Juri Megarrity. Spend cool nights rugged up by the wood heater and sunny days in the open-air bathtub on the deck.

Photo: Van Diemen Rise

P For more, visit vandiemenrise.com

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travel news.

Inspiration for exploring our state

3 TO TRY

must-visit list

ALL ABOARD! With the new Derwent River ferry between Bellerive and Hobart, the cross-river hop has never been more cruisy.

COMING SOON Tassie-born chef Massimo Mele is opening a new restaurant, Peppina, in the hotly anticipated Hobart hotel The Tasman, to be revealed in December.

LIFT OFF Visiting South Australia is easier than ever thanks to Tasmania’s newest flight route – Virgin Australia’s direct service between Launceston and Adelaide.

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A ROOM WITH A VIEW Elevate your next holiday in Hobart with new boutique accommodation offering Seaview (@seaview_in_the_glebe).

This three-bedroom federation cottage sits on the fringes of Queens Domain in Glebe, an easy stroll from the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens and North Hobart. The house features wraparound verandahs with views over the River Derwent, city centre and kunanyi/Mt Wellington beyond, as well as an airy extension and impeccable interiors by respected stylists Belle Hemming Bright and Lynda Gardener. Available now on Airbnb.

travel

Road trip inspo Are you dreaming of your next driving holiday?

Local illustrator Pofo Illo has released a print celebrating the great Tassie road trip. Tasmania Drives captures all the classic roads, towns and detours across our great state – find it at Spacebar Gallery, in Hobart’s Salamanca Arts Centre, or online at theilloco.com and start planning.

Photos: Marnie Hawson; Chris Crerar; Virgin Australia; Tourism Tasmania / Jewels Lynch

Calling all farmers Regional Australia is trending in travel like never before, as city types seek out a taste of country life through everything from farm stays to farm gate trails. And where there’s demand, there’s opportunity, with the CSIRO predicting that ‘agritourism’ will be worth $18.6 billion by 2030. Opening the Gate is a new initiative helping Tasmanian farmers and producers develop agritourism offerings through masterclasses and programs.

We, for one, can’t wait to see the results. Discover some of the Huon Valley’s top agritourism experiences from p. 50 (such as Gardners Bay Farm, pictured). If you own a farm and want to learn more, visit agritourismtasmania.com.au

Spring into action Spring is the best time to spot young marsupials that have just ventured out of mum’s pouch.

See juvenile Tasmanian devils (imps) now at sanctuaries such as Devils @ Cradle, Trowunna Wildlife Sanctuary or Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary, as well as pademelon, wallaby and kangaroo joeys.

Save 10% as a member off Activities, RV & Caravan overnight camping and Accommodation

Open 7 days – Pet friendly!

Visit the Airwalk, the Eagle Hang Glider or book the Twin River Rafting adventure. ract.com.au // JOURNEYS

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© Olli Khedun

ROAD TRIPS MEASURED IN MOMENTS NOT KILOMETRES

Now is the perfect time for a classic Tasmanian road trip. Something more than just driving from A to B, and then back again. For inspiration, we’ve put together a guide that contains all the information you need to turn meanderings into memories. Hit the main roads, back roads and even dirt roads and Make Yourself at Home Photos: Name Here

everywhere around our state.

Lyell Highway, Queenstown

discovertasmania.com.au/road-trips

travel Beautiful scenery, fresh seafood and some of the state’s warmest weather make this charming fishing town a perfect weekend destination, Ruth Dawkins writes.

Bicheno The PIT STOP

Photos: Courtesy of Whalers Rest, Little Bay Collective; Tourism Tasmania / Stu Gibson

SEE Tasmania’s only glass-bottomed boat operates out of Bicheno, running 40-minute tours throughout the day. The area’s clean, clear waters are teeming with marine life – from stingrays and jellyfish to eels and sea stars – and the enthusiasm of Bicheno’s Glass Bottom Boat operator and guide Maitreya Randall is infectious.

EAT For the ultimate ocean-to-plate Tassie seafood experience, you’d be hard pressed to find a better spot than the Lobster Shack.

Overlooking the iconic Gulch, this relaxed eatery serves up fresh lobsters, oysters and prawns.

If you can drag yourself away from the view, there’s also a small maritime museum upstairs.

DRINK Discover the best wines the East Coast has to offer at The Farm Shed.

The friendly, knowledgeable owners Helen Bain and Subi Mead offer tastings of 24 wines at any one time plus sales of 90 wines from 22 local vineyards – including a few from smaller, boutique producers without a cellar door of their own.

SHOP Can you imagine a better retail combination than pastries and fashion? That’s exactly what you’ll find at Little Bay Patisserie. This beautiful space provides cafe seating and freshly baked pastries alongside carefully curated clothing, accessories and homewares. Treat yourself to some gorgeous knitwear, colourful ceramics or a warm croissant straight out of the oven.

ESSENTIAL STOPS • Bicheno’s Glass Bottom Boat • The Lobster Shack • The Farm Shed • Little Bay Patisserie • Whalers rest

WAUBS BAY

GOVERNOR ISLAND

BICHENO

STAY Families and couples alike will enjoy a restful stay at Whalers rest: a quiet, light-filled shack with spectacular ocean views. It’s thoughtfully styled with maritime-themed knick-knacks – whale bones, buoys and rudders – and, with the beach nearby, there is plenty of time to fossick for shells and start your own collection.

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(clockwise from top) Bicheno’s iconic Gulch; a cruffin by Little Bay Patisserie; tasteful styling at Whalers rest.

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Great Set off on a

Eastern

F

ramed by pink-tinged mountains, turquoise waters and verdant forest, the East Coast of Tasmania luxuriates in its surrounds. A laidback luxury also awaits in seafood fresh from the waters, eco resorts nestled unobtrusively in pristine settings and empty beaches discovered by boat or mountain bike. Chilled-out townships, farmto-fork eats and friendly local businesses round out a road trip worthy of taking your time.

Drive ROAD TRIP

Park it Some of Tasmania’s most iconic national parks are waiting on a Great Eastern Drive road trip, but don’t just stop at the big names. The arc of Wineglass Bay and granite peaks of Freycinet National Park and the Bay of Fires Conservation Area with its fiery boulders are a must-see. But so are the white-sand beaches of Mount William National Park, the cascades of St Columba Falls State Reserve and the dry sclerophyll forests and placid waterholes of Douglas-Apsley National Park. Offshore, Maria Island National Park combines convict history with staggering scenery (plus, a chilled-out wombat population).

brought to you by Tasmania – Make Yourself at Home

Get cosy

Photos: Tourism Tasmania / Rob Burnett / Aaron Jones / Kathryn Leahy / Stu Gibson / St Helens MTB Trails | J. Da Seymour Photomedia

Float away If you don’t venture out onto the East Coast’s lazuline waters, have you even been? Hop aboard with Wineglass Bay Cruises for a half-day cruise along the Freycinet coast.

Join Bay of Fires Eco Tours from Binalong Bay to see the iconic coast from its best angle. Check out what lies beneath the clear waters with Bicheno Glass Bottom Boat. Or combine a boat trip with a stroll on Maria Island with East Coast Cruises.

To paddle at your own pace, set off with Freycinet Adventures from Coles Bay and explore this stunning part of the world by sea kayak.

A warm welcome awaits at the East Coast’s boutique accommodation options. Sleep in bell tents, heritage spaces or modern pods at Twamley Farm near Buckland. Meredith House & Mews has greeted guests in Swansea for over a century. North of Bicheno, stay behind the dunes in the self-contained Sandpiper Ocean Cottages, or relax on the waterfront at Orford’s Eastcoaster Resort (where even the pool has ocean views).

Dial it up Your East Coast adventure can be as leisurely or high adrenaline as you want it to be. Ride from mountains to sea on the world-class St Helens Mountain Bike Trails. Pedal from vineyard to farm gate with Swansea Cycle Tours. Or set out from Coles Bay with All4 ATV All Terrain Tours and go off-road in Freycinet National Park.

Go a little wild Drink it in Soak up the scenery on the East Coast Wine Trail, from Darlington Vineyard in the south to Priory Ridge Wines in the north. Prop an elbow at The Pub in the Paddock in Pyengana, one of the state’s oldest pubs, and find local spirit (plus beer and wine) at Spring Bay Distillery or Ironhouse Distillery, Brewery and Vineyard in Four Mile Creek. And stock up the car boot at The Farm Shed East Coast Wine Centre in Bicheno.

Lap up the luxury

Dine fresh

The East Coast’s luxe retreats let the scenery do the talking. The subtle swooping form of Saffire Freycinet looks out over The Hazards and Freycinet National Park. The beautifully designed Freycinet Lodge Coastal Pavilions are hidden in native bushland. And commanding one-bedroom fortress The Keep overlooks the wild Blue Tier.

Sumptuously furnished bell tents give camping a dose of luxury at Bay of Fires Bush Retreat, with Binalong Bay just down the road.

The ocean and fields are the East Coast’s pantry. Pick up spring berries at Kate’s Berry Farm near Swansea, and graze on award-winning cheeses at Pyengana Dairy Farmgate Café.

There’s next-level fish and chips at Bicheno’s Lobster Shack; seafood straight off the boat at The Fish Van in Triabunna and fresh-harvested mussels and oysters at Freycinet Marine Farm, served with local scallops, abalone and lobster. Leave room for cake at Purple Possum Wholefoods and Cafe in St Marys.

Meet the East Coast’s most endearing feathered, furred and scaled residents. See fairy penguins as they waddle home after dark with Bicheno Penguin Tours. Encounter exotic reptiles at Serpentarium Wildlife Park in St Helens. And spot one of our most iconic creatures in its natural habitat with the Devils in the Dark tour at East Coast Natureworld, a short drive north of Bicheno.

To plan a Great Eastern Drive road trip, see discovertasmania.com.au/great-eastern-drive

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travel

Valley of plenty From animal close encounters to gamechanging field-to-fork ventures, Krysia Bonkowski discovers three of the Huon Valley’s best farm experiences.

Photos: Name Here

Photos Chris Crerar

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HIGHLAND GETAWAY

travel

GLEN HUON DAIRY CO.

HUON VALLEY

McEWAN’S GREEN

PORT CYGNET CANNERY

O

GARDNERS BAY FARM

ur photographer would have the perfect shot lined up, if it weren’t for the cow licking his elbow. We’re on one of the daily tours at Glen Huon Dairy Co, and a female Australian dairy shorthorn named James is determined to befriend the humans standing around in her paddock. It’s our second close cow encounter in 24 hours in the Huon Valley, an epicentre of Tasmania’s blossoming agritourism industry.

The treechange The verdant hills, waterways and valleys of the Huon begin just 30 minutes from Hobart, but feel much farther-flung. Local pioneers such as Matthew Evans and Journeys columnist Sadie Chrestman of Fat Pig Farm were among the first to open their Huon farms to visitors, feeding a growing demand for rural escapism.

It was the dream of the rural idyll that drew Queenslander Julie Sade to her Ranelagh farm.

At Highland Getaway, Julie offers a scenic farm stay and small-group tours – the highlight of which is brushing her Highland cows.

After feeding the alpacas, we’re off in Julie’s all-terrain vehicle (ATV) for the main event.

Julie first saw a Highland being combed on YouTube, and discovered that hers also enjoyed it – almost too much.

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(Clockwise from opposite) Julie Sade’s Highland cows; Glen Huon Dairy Co; Richard Butler with James; the Glen Huon Farm Shop.

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REST EASY McEwan’s Green is a country-chic Airbnb guest suite in a heritagelisted weatherboard.

Caretakers Dan and Dan are on hand to welcome guests to the Franklin property, with its fire pit, rambling vegie garden and brood of ducks and chickens.

Wake to sunrise over the glassy Huon River and a breakfast of fresh-laid eggs.

“I’ve actually created a problem for myself,” Julie laughs. “They don’t like it when you stop brushing…”

During our visit, we meet a herd of pushy yearlings, fluffy calves and long-horned bulls (carefully brushed through the ATV’s windows).

A self-taught farmer, Julie has devoted herself to the care of her property and livestock – even her octogenarian parents pitch in. “There’s a lot of trial and error – googling and talking to people and observing your animals,” she says.

“I’m learning as I go.”

Glass half full While Julie’s cattle earn their keep by being ornamental, the 55 cows at Glen Huon Dairy Co sustain a productive dairy farm. Our guide is Richard Butler, a farm manager lured from the UK in 2017 by cheesemaker Nick Haddow.

Today, nearly all the milk used at Bruny Island Cheese Co comes from Glen Huon Dairy.

The aim of Nick’s paddock-to-plate venture, Richard explains, is simply to produce the highest-quality cheese. “And that meant having full control of the story, right from the soil up to milking the cows and into the cheesery.”

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(Clockwise from top right) Phil O’Donnell and Eva Herrmann of Gardners Bay, Julie’s bulls enjoy a brush, pigs at Gardners Bay Farm.

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“I’ve actually created a problem for myself... They don’t like it when you stop brushing.”

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(Clockwise from top) The once-daily milking at Glen Huon, gumboots are a must, Glen Huon milk on tap at the Farm Shop.

After watching the daily milking, we meet some friendly pigs (who enjoy spent grain from Bruny Island Beer Co and whey from the cheesery in their diet) and newly hatched chicks, soon to join a free-range flock that helps turn over paddocks.

When we reach the herd, Richard produces tiny bottles of milk that we drink, standing beside the cows it came from. After running huge commercial dairies, Richard now knows all his charges individually. “It’s one of the luxuries of a small herd. And they’ve all got their own personalities – huge personalities.”

The tour concludes with cheese tastings by a roaring brazier. Glancing at the production date, Richard tells us what was happening in the paddocks and its impact on the aged hard cheese we’re nibbling. “We can tie each cheese back to a specific place and time,” he says.

“I see the whole process – from start to finish – which is so satisfying.”

When establishing Glen Huon, Richard says, they set out by asking how they could do things differently to the rest of the dairy industry. Through the new farm tours and onsite farm shop, visitors can see their answer.

Vegie patch to plate In Cygnet, the Port Cygnet Cannery is also doing things differently. The acclaimed eatery unexpectedly swapped a busy regular food service for pop-up events last year. But as well as letting the team offer more variety, the pivot was a step in a journey towards selfsustainability that began with Gardners Bay Farm – the Cannery’s 140-acre private larder.

“It just makes everything feel very different, as a chef, to know where it’s grown and how it’s grown,” says Cannery co-owner Franca Zingler. We’ve joined Franca and head farmer Phil O’Donnell on the new tour for groups of 10 or more diners, green thumbs or school kids.

At Gardners Bay, Phil can share his passion for regenerative small-scale farming. “Winter two seasons ago, this was just a bare paddock,” he says, gesturing to the sun-drenched plot.

Everything is done by hand; wheelbarrows are as heavy duty as it gets. Gardners Bay is now planted with 75 annual crops (not counting perennials) and home to saddleback pigs, chickens and cattle, with it all – from kilos of produce to flowers and even weeds – destined for the Cannery’s Thursday takeaway pizzas, Friday dine-in pizza nights and chef Lachlan Colwill’s multi-course weekend lunches.

The farm tours let the Cannery team show the potential of thinking big by acting small.

“I think the beauty of it is in staying small,” Franca says. “Tasmania is quite unique in that sense, that we can do so many great things on a small scale. There’s lots of little businesses here doing their thing.” ract.com.au // JOURNEYS

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Image credit: Pierre Destribats

travel

A dry guide to

Photos: Tourism Tasmania / Osborne Images

Tasmanian wine country

TO LIMIT YOURSELF TO WINE TASTINGS is to overlook half the pleasure of Tasmania’s beautiful wine regions, writes Andrew Bain. Beaches edge East Coast vineyards, and hills and bushland frame wineries in the north and south. Whether you want to broaden a wine weekend, or have volunteered as designated driver, tastings can be just an aperitif to other experiences.

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(clockwise from top left) Hatted fare at Josef Chromy Wines; porcine mascots at Holm Oak Vineyards; Unique Charters’ wine flights.

The state’s headline wine region contains more than 30 cellar doors and untold ways to vary a visit.

Food is as much a drawcard as wine at Josef Chromy Wines. Indulge in the two- or threecourse lunch menu at its hatted restaurant, but it’s beyond the walls that things get most interesting at this Relbia winery.

Take a two-hour guided bike ride through the vineyard on weekends, join a Yoga in the Vines class, or learn to fly fish on the property.

Take a Tamar Valley visit to literally new heights on a Vineyard Trifecta helicopter tour with Unique Charters. Taking off from Clover Hill Wines (after indulging in a selection of cheeses), the flight stops at two other wineries, soaking up high-in-the-sky Tamar views in between.

Combine a cellar-door visit with a cooking class at Hinton Bay Vineyard, where the attached

Hinton Bay Kitchen offers a range of lessons, from Italian vegan cooking to preparing and making dolmades.

Add a stroll to a sip at Bay of Fires Wines, which adjoins a 180-metre-long boardwalk to Pipers River, where there’s always a chance of spying platypuses or trout.

Kids will love Holm Oak Vineyards, where they can grab apples and feed the winery’s so-called general manager, Pinot d’Pig, and his porcine offsiders, Pinot Junior and Mayo. The vineyard also has a sensory garden and forest trails to wander.

In between wineries, there are myriad non-alcoholic attractions around the Tamar.

Take to the treetops at Hollybank Wilderness Adventures, amble into Lilydale Falls, mingle with wildlife at side-by-side Seahorse World and Platypus House in Beauty Point, and shop for fine ceramics at Artisan Pottery in Robigana.

Round out the day with a glamping stay at Domescapes Tasmania, with its luxury geodesic domes – think king beds, ensuites, star-gazing windows and outdoor baths – set among the vines at Swinging Gate Vineyard.

RACT members can save by booking the Josef Chromy Wines experiences available through Experience OZ. See ract.experienceoz.com.au 56

JOURNEYS // OCT / NOV 2021

Photos: Renee Hodskiss; Unique Charters; Prospect House; Wobbly Boot Vineyard; Frogmore Creek; Josef Chromy

Tamar Valley & Relbia

travel

The south

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(clockwise from top) BYO dog at Wobbly Boot Vineyard; food as art at Frogmore Creek; the grand Prospect House.

There’s something for everyone, including the pooch, amid southern wineries. In the Coal River Valley, Wobbly Boot Vineyard bills itself as Australia’s most dog-friendly winery and features three off-lead areas: one apiece for larger dogs, smaller dogs and older dogs.

Rabbits are more the focus at Riversdale Estate, where childhood nostalgia abounds in the Peter Rabbit Garden. The estate is also the place for a spot of high tea in the Orangery.

Neighbouring Frogmore Creek Winery was one of the champions of Tasmania’s gourmet revolution, and its restaurant remains a destination venue. It’s also worth heading upstairs to view Flawed History of Tasmanian Wine, an inlaid wooden floor mural by Tasmanian artist Tom Samek.

Art comes further into its own among the vines at Moorilla, the winery better known as the site for MONA. Moorilla Winery’s cellar door sits atop the gallery complex – head underground for the art and overground for the wine.

Combine a Sunday cellar-door visit to the Coal River Valley with the Richmond Village Market and a requisite look at Richmond Bridge, Australia’s oldest large stone-arch bridge.

Quality eating options among the southern wineries include Coal River Farm, wood-fired pizzas at historic Pooley Wines and the Port Cygnet Cannery, sharing space inside a historic apple cannery with the new Sailor Seeks Horse cellar door.

Place yourself at the heart of wine country with a stay at Prospect House, an 1830 Georgian manor, immediately opposite Pooley Wines.

ract.com.au // JOURNEYS

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travel

It’s the Freycinet views from the observation tower at Devil’s Corner that’ll have your head spinning.

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JOURNEYS // OCT / NOV 2021

Tassie’s sunny side features a smaller cluster of vineyards, but the dry options are just as enticing.

On this coastline appropriately anchored by Wineglass Bay, it’s the Freycinet views from the observation tower at Devil’s Corner that’ll have your head spinning (with renovations set to make the cellar door even more impressive).

With its cellar door inside an 1842 convictbuilt stone stable, Spring Vale Vineyard is worth a visit for its history alone. Just up the highway, Freycinet Vineyard also offers tastings of its own extra-virgin olive oil.

To the south, the Sunday sessions at Cape Bernier Vineyard add music and cheese to the wines, while the seventh-generation Bangor – home to the Bangor Vineyard Shed – is a property as flavoured with history as grapes.

Explore sites such as Abel Tasman’s only Tasmanian shore landing, and the first place of contact between palawa and Europeans, on a guided bike ride across the property with Tasmanian eBike Adventures.

Find a home among the East Coast vines at Lisdillon, a working sheep farm and vineyard south of Swansea with four cottages near a private beach.

Photos: Tourism Tasmania / Pete Harmsen; Courtesy of Bangor Bike Tours

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RACT September for Oct-Nov 2021_jf2.indd 1

06-Oct-21 20:54:13

62/ THE LATEST 64/ 67/

CHANGING GEARS LEARNER ROAD SAFETY

71/ MEMBER REWARDS 73/ PUZZLES

74/ REAR VIEW

community

Raising better drivers

We need to do things differently. That’s our message to the Tasmanian State Government on road safety, as well as to drivers who supervise learner drivers.

An Australian researcher has some valuable lessons for those who help young people get their driver’s licence. The key? Let the learner take more responsibility for road safety once they’ve mastered the technical skills of driving. Read the story on p. 67. There’s also plenty of room for improvement with experienced motorists – all drivers need to take more responsibility for road safety. There are certainly many who support that view, judging by the 2010 responses we received from Tasmanians that helped shape our submission to the Legislative Council Select Committee into Road Safety (learn more on p. 64). We thank everyone who sent us their comments, observations and ideas about how to make our roads safer.

P Read more at ract.com.au/community/advocating-change ract.com.au // JOURNEYS

61

the latest.

Once a foreign and futuristic thought, solar panels have become a common sight on the roofs of many Tasmanian homes and businesses. So it comes as no surprise that the next emerging trend in solar is home EV charging.

Locally owned company I Want Energy, a member rewards partner, has proudly been helping to push the electric movement, having completed more than 4000

solar installs in the past 13 years. Its Zappi Smart EV charger operates as a standard EV charger, harnessing power from the grid, but also has a charging mode that utilises 100% green energy generated from your home solar system. Think – your next family road trip could be powered entirely by sun rays that would otherwise just have bounced off your roof.

Australian owned-andoperated Chargefox is the country’s largest and fastest-growing EV charging network. Its aim is to reduce road transport emissions by making EV charging simple, affordable and reliable for all.

All Chargefox ultra-rapid stations are powered by 100% renewable energy, with a constantly expanding network of stations in Tasmania, as well as across Victoria, New South Wales, South Australia, Western Australia and Queensland.

RACT is a proud partner of Chargefox, and we share its commitment to making EV charging more accessible.

As the rollout of EV charging infrastructure continues across the state, EV uptake is rapidly growing for Tasmanians and visitors alike.

On the road with an EV? Members can save 20% at Chargefox sites across Australia. Download the free Chargefox app on the Apple App Store or Google Play.

To find your nearest charging station on the RACT Fuel Saver app by selecting ‘EV charge’ as your fuel type, or use the Chargefox app.

P To learn more about these and other member rewards partners, visit ract.com.au/membership/member-rewards 62

JOURNEYS // OCT / NOV 2021

Photos: Stu Gibson

Our partners in the EV expansion

community

CAR

MEDIC Q My 1998 sedan is

getting thirstier for oil lately, yet I can’t identify any leak. It has clocked up around 280,000km. What could be causing this?

Janine Jeunet // Primrose Sands

A Oil leaking into the car’s

Competition Winner The RACT and United have teamed up to give one lucky customer a new car.

Tasmanian Roger Lockhart from Longford in the state’s north was thrilled to get the news.

“When I got the call I thought Christmas must have come early,” Mr Lockhart said.

Mr Lockhart is an RACT member and entered the draw when he filled up at United.

United’s State Sales Manager, Michael Coles congratulated him.

“After a tough year for many Tasmanians it was great to put a smile on someone’s face,” Mr Coles said.

“United is a proud part of the Tasmanian community and it’s fantastic to work with RACT and be able to give back to our customers.”

RACT’s Chief Experience Officer, Stacey Pennicott, said the competition was a hit with members.

“It pays to be with RACT, whether it’s accessing roadside assistance, great value with one of our many partners, discount fuel at United outlets or going into the draw to win a car,” Ms Pennicott said.

“In fact, between July last year and the end of June this year, RACT members have saved $3.75 million on fuel by flashing their member card at United outlets and receiving a 6 cents per litre discount. Our Fuel Saver app has also helped people find the cheapest fuel in their area.”

Ms Pennicott thanked United for supporting the competition and all of the RACT members who entered.

combustion chamber can result from the following: the piston rings aren’t sealing on the bore; or you have worn valves, valve guides or valve stem seals. These issues will cause a lot more oil to be used up by your car. The oil is slipping past the rings, going into the combustion chamber – and out the exhaust as filthy blue smoke. I’d advise you to consult your mechanic, but when you buy new oil, go for oil that’s one grade thicker than the manufacturer’s

specifications, and a betterquality oil (semi-synthetic or fully synthetic). At the end of the day, though, you’re driving an old vehicle, and these measures will simply slow down the wear of the engine, when the engine probably needs to be replaced.

RACT Roadside Patrol // Julian McGarry

Fair fuel prices for all Since real-time fuel price reporting started in September last year and our RACT Fuel Saver app launched in December, Tasmanian motorists are finally getting fairer prices for fuel.

Recent research by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has revealed that the gap on average fuel prices has closed around Australia, with Hobart seeing the biggest price fall of any capital. We are proud of the role the Fuel Saver app has played in this.

Download the RACT Fuel Saver app via Apple App Store and Google Play. Visit ract.com.au/fuel-saver

ract.com.au // JOURNEYS

63

Changing gears

Tasmania has spoken

change...

– and you want

E

WHEN THE RACT asked Tasmanians for their views on road safety in August, we knew to expect a big reaction, writes Garry Bailey.

very time we set out to see what our 210,000 members are thinking through our quarterly surveys, road safety comes up as a key issue.

So, when we asked Tasmanians to contribute their views on road safety as part of our project to provide a submission to the Legislative Council Select Committee into Road Safety, we were certain that there would be no shortage of material. A long history of regular engagement with our members helped us be well prepared for the reaction.

We expected a big response – and got it.

A total of 2010 submissions were received through a special portal established on the RACT website for this exercise in community engagement.

And it wasn’t just the big-picture items that they brought to our attention. There is a mass of material on the quality of individual roads; ideas for behaviour-change campaigns; anecdotes

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JOURNEYS // OCT / NOV 2021

about poor driver behaviour; pleas for people to slow down; black spots that need to be fixed; speed limits that people want changed; road markings that need renewal.

It’s a rich harvest that will help inform our advocacy beyond the road safety inquiry, with implications for transport and infrastructure issues too.

The survey exercise shows the value of connecting with Tasmanians to test the temperature of community issues such as road safety and transport as they arise.

Many of the issues raised are already captured in the comprehensive range of RACT policies (available for review online). And as we work through the extensive material supplied by the survey, we expect to add to those policies.

Those policies, and the evidence that underpins them, were the foundation for our submission to the road safety inquiry.

community

What you want to see Better, safer roads A greater police presence on our roads Better driver training More road safety education in our schools Refresher courses for older drivers A vehicle safety inspection regimen to keep unroadworthy vehicles off our roads More campaigns on our road rules A crackdown on driver distraction, including mobile-phone use Setting speed limits that reflect the quality of the road.

We need to do things differently.

That submission will be publicly released by the Select Committee into Road Safety.

There were many other discussions, as we cast the net far and wide for information for the submission – from our local partnerships with the Police Association of Tasmania, the Local Government Association of Tasmania and the Bicycle Network, to tapping into the expertise in Sweden, Norway, the Fédération Internationale de l‘Automobile and the Australian Automobile Association (of which the RACT is a member).

And there was the considerable evidence from past inquiries, both in Tasmania and nationally, that add to what we believe is a compelling narrative for change in road safety in this state.

Our message: We need to do things differently.

Online Keep updated with our road safety advocacy at ract.com.au/advocating-change

ract.com.au // JOURNEYS

65

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Our boarders thrive in our historic home away from home. Through broad academic, cultural and sports programs, we offer rich experiential learning opportunities and have a strong history of academic success.

To take a tour, call 6211 4911, email enrolments@collegiate.tas.edu.au or visit collegiate.tas.edu.au

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community

SUPERVISORY DRIVERS should let learners take more responsibility for road safety once they’ve mastered the technical skills of driving, a leading researcher recommends.

Time solo? to go

P

Supervisors: prepare learners for their first solo drive

rofessor Te r e s a Senserrick, from the Queensland University of Technology’s Centre for Accident Research a nd Ro a d S a fet y Queensland (CARRS-Q), believes more attention should be placed on road safety awareness when drivers are accruing the 80 mandatory logbook hours prior to the practical driving test.

“When you look at risk curves it is very, very safe at the learner stage but that first six to 12 months on your P-plates sees one of the highest spikes of crash rates that you’ll see throughout a driver’s lifespan,” Professor Senserrick says.

Crash likelihood

Supervisors tended to share too much of the responsibility during instruction, which meant the learner was not gaining the safety skills needed for driving on their own.

“They keep managing things for them,” Professor Senserrick says. “Some early research from France talked about driving with two heads because the parent was still going ‘watch out for this’ or ‘you focus on the car and I’ll do this’. “ There’s something that ’s just very fundamentally different when you first go out and you’re driving without a supervisor.”

Professor Senserrick said the lack of practical

Driving experience

Source: Austroads 2008

ract.com.au // JOURNEYS

67

community

“If you’re judging whether your child is ready to go and do that driving test, you should be able to be sitting there and not be saying anything.”

The two types of skills Learner drivers gain two types of driving skills: ‘lower-order’ and ‘higher-order’ skills. Everyone develops these skills at a different pace.

68

When you first begin to drive, you learn lower-order skills, including:

As you gain more driving experience, you begin to learn higher-order skills, such as:

How to use the car’s controls (such as brakes, steering wheel and gears)

Perception Decision-making

How to control the car’s movement

Having spare attention.

How to use the car’s controls without thinking about them.

This is where road safety should become a focus for supervisory drivers.

JOURNEYS // OCT / NOV 2021

experience and an inability to identify potentially dangerous situations contributed to the high number of crashes involving young drivers.

“If you’re judging whether your child is ready to go and do that driving test, you should be able to be sitting there and not be saying anything,” she says. “You should have transferred all the learning and the skills so that the young person is doing everything themselves.

“It really only takes, on average, up to about 15 hours to get the hang of the physical part of driving a car and manoeuvring in traffic. Parents get relaxed and think, ‘oh, they’ve got it now, they don’t need me anymore’, but that’s when you can start focusing on safety.”

The ideal time for supervisors to begin to focus more on road safety is when learners start to gain higher-order skills (see table left).

Professor Senserrick recently spoke to Royal Automobile Club of Queensland (RACQ) about young driver safety and is currently working with the Department of State Growth on the topic.

With more than 20 years’ experience in road safety, Professor Senserrick is nationally and internationally recognised for her work in this field. Her PhD in developmental psychology explored adolescent motivation and risk taking, and young drivers continue to be a focus of her research.

Give them the Keys2drive

All learner drivers and their supervisors are eligible to receive a free Keys2drive lesson.

The driving lesson, with a Keys2drive accredited professional driving instructor, incorporates information and strategies for managing the early solo driving stage. It also includes a practical demonstration on how to self-assess, self-instruct and self-supervise.

Tasmanian learners can also access a free Plates Plus lesson. Visit ract.com.au/cars-and-driving/driver-training

Learner driver?

Get two FREE driving lessons.

If you’re a Tasmanian learner car licence holder, you can access a Keys2drive AND a Plates Plus driving lesson for free, to help you get to your provisional licence.

Keys2drive is a free one-hour lesson that includes theory and driving taught by a certified instructor.

• Learners need to bring their supervising driver along for both the theory and practical parts of the lesson.

• Learners will develop skills for safer driving, and supervising drivers will get tips to help them along the way.

On completion, you’ll then be eligible for a free Plates Plus lesson.

The Plates Plus lesson is a free one-hour on-road driving lesson.

• Learners can work with their instructor on driving tasks they need more practice with.

They can also choose to bring a supervising driver.

• Tasmanian learners are only eligible for this free lesson once they have completed their free Keys2drive lesson.

Register for your free lessons at www.keys2drive.com.au

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Save 25% on any pair of glasses (from the $149 range or above), or save 20% on select lenses or $30 off contact lenses.* Show your membership card in-store or create a voucher on Specsavers' website.

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Save 5% on the cost of a new seat and have it fitted for free, plus members get $10 off fittings for all seats.*

Save every time you fill up with the RACT Fuel Saver app. Access real-time fuel prices, find member discounted prices at United Petroleum and locate your nearest station or EV charger.

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Save 1% p.a. off the standard base rate for used car loans by quoting your membership number when applying online or over the phone.* See ract.com.au/ract-finance

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Buying a second-hand car? RACT Vehicle Inspections can help give you peace of mind with full mechanical checks by qualified mechanics and history reports for cars and commercial vehicles.

puzzles

hgc006 1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9 10

11

12

13

14

15

1 What is the highest mountain in Tasmania?

16 17

19 22

20

18

21

23

26

Crossword

4 What are the names of the two major senior secondary schools in Launceston?

25

5 Which Australian Prime Minister disappeared at sea?

27

28

6 What is the largest sand island in the world?

7 What is the name of the Tasmanian yacht race that usually takes place at Easter every year?

29

25 Very large cat native to forests in Asia (5)

6 Machine for separating cotton from its seeds (6,3)

Across

Photos: iStock

26 Old French goodbye (5) Cannabis cigarette (colloq.) (6) 17 7Popular heart is on slice 27 The act, state, or right of 8 Relating to a wolf or wolves (6) Down 1 Having soft, loose flesh (6) display using crushed possessingin something (9) 9 Australian cricketer and 4 Of or like a ghost (8) Canberra (4,3) biscuits and 28 Violent, windy storms (8) commentator _ _ _ _ _ _ Benaud (6) 1 Musical 10 Award-winning Aboriginal 29 A person's head (colloq.) (6) 15 State of physical chocolate (8)or mental composition 6 Machine for artist Albert _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ (9) weariness (9) with a orfree formespecially separating cotton 18 17 11 Link connection, Freshwater turtle Popular slice using crushed Down one between commercial biscuits and chocolate (8) and often an from its seeds found in the US companies (3-2) 1 Musical composition with a free18 Freshwater turtle common in improvisatory (6,3) (8)US (8) 12 Accumulate (5) form, often improvisatory style (8) the style 13 All (8) Saints' Day eve (9) 2 Attractive companion Former Olympic Australian 7 Cannabis 20 20 Former Olympic accompanying a celebrity at runner Herb _ _ _ _ _ _ _ (7) 14 Allow oneself to enjoy the 2 Attractive social events (3,5) cigarette runner Herb _ describe _ pleasure of (7) 21 Level of heat used to 3 Last name of Irish-Australian companion food or_beverages (6) 16 Suburb in the Belconnen (colloq.)

(6) _ _ _ _ (7) welfare worker and lifelong district of Canberra (4) 22 Mark used over a vowel, accompanying a student of Aboriginal culture 8 Relating 21 to a Level of heat(6) especially in German 19 Small island (4) and society, Daisy _ _ _ _ _ (5) celebrity at 23 Division caused by differences 21 Conjunctivitis (colloq.) (7) wolf orracehorse wolveswhose heart used to describe 5 Famous social events of opinion or belief (6) 24 Australian nun canonised in is on display in Canberra (4,3) (6) food or 25 The trunk of the human body (5) 2010 Mary _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ (9) (3,5) beverages (6) 9 Australian 3 Irish-Australian JOURNEYS AUGUST–SEPTEMBER SOLUTIONS cricketer and _CROSSWORD _ 22 Mark used over a welfare worker Across: 1 Sepsis, 4 Smoothly, 10 Burlinson, 11 Carom, 12 Rheum, 13 Deception, 14 Cover-up, 16 Bond, 19 Undo, 21 Haywood, 24 MacKillop, 25 Liege, _ _ _ _ Benaud vowel, especially and lifelong 26 Ennui, 27 Quaintest, 28 Decanter, 29 Boffin; Down: 1 Subtract, 2 Perceive, 3 Idiom, 5 Minicab, 6 Occupancy, 7 Harris, 8 Yamens, 9 Used up, (6)18 Edgerton, 20 Oblique, 21 Hopman, 22 Impend,in German (6) 15 Rendition, 17 Tone-deaf, 23 Scenic, 25 Lingo. student of

15 State of physical or mental

2 What year did Cyclone Yasi hit North Queensland?

3 What make and model is the General Lee?

24

Aboriginal culture and

Quiz

23 Division caused by differences of

8 Retired Australian thoroughbred racehorse, Black Caviar, was undefeated in how many races?

9 In what year did Neighbours begin airing in Australia?

10 What were the names of the ships that Abel Tasman commanded?

Want to find out how you did?

Find the answers online at

ract.com.au/puzzles

WIN Put your knowledge to the test and go into the draw to win one of two $50 Woolworths WISH Gift Cards.

Please complete the online form to make a valid entry.

T&Cs apply. Good luck! ract.com.au/competitions

ract.com.au // JOURNEYS

73

rear view.

Tasmania as captured by our talented members

PICTURED (clockwise from top) // Richard Turner (@thelifeofturner) enjoyed a calm day on the Carlton River; Erin McGrath (@erinmcgrathphoto) met Maria Island’s wisdom

of wombats; Sean Dargaville captured the candy hues of Cornelian Bay’s boat sheds; Diana Nickson greeted sunrise at Spring Vale Vineyard in Cranbrook.

Want to see your photo here? Send your shots of our beautiful island to journeys@ract.com.au or tag us with both @ractofficial and #yourjourneys on lnstagram, Facebook or Twitter.

74

JOURNEYS // OCT / NOV 2021

Will you leave 1% to give them a life worth living?

Your legacy is important to them.

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