Brighton Community News February/March 2024 by Propel Studio

VOL 14 NO 7 FEBRUARY/MARCH 2024 www.brightoncommunitynews.com.au

Bridgewater named Best Sustainable Community in Tasmania Congratulations to the Bridgewater community, which was recently named the Best Sustainable Community in Tasmania by Keep Australia Beautiful - Tasmania in an awards ceremony. Bridgewater was entered based on the many positive strength-based activities that are happening in the local community. Contrary to popular belief, the award is not based on how neat and tidy a town is. It was the culmination of an assessment of a range of criteria that Bridgewater was judged to be doing incredibly well at. These included Community Spirit and Inclusion, Community Health & Wellbeing and Heritage and Culture. Bridgewater also won major category awards for these three criteria. Most importantly, a number of our community groups and businesses were recognised with Certificates of Excellence for their contribution to the overall award. Certificates of Excellence were presented to: • Bean to Brew Cafe • Bridgewater Community House Jordan River Service Inc. • Bridgewater Landcare Tasmania Group • Brighton Community

Food Hub Inc • Brighton Youth Action Group for Big Bangin Youth Night • Cafe Connections • Cultural Craft Group • Kutalayna Collective Connected Beginnings • Material Institute Lutruwita Tasmania - Beauty Lab • Material Institute & kutalayna Collective - Winter Fest • Under One Rainbow As well as being recognised at the Keep Australia Beautiful Tasmania awards ceremony, the winners were also celebrated with a recent event at the Brighton Council chambers. Mayor Leigh Gray had much pleasure in being able to personally present these certificates and celebrate the great work our community groups and local businesses do to make Bridgewater and our Brighton Municipality a great place to live. Bridgewater will now compete in the national awards for Australia’s Most Sustainable Community, to be held in Gascoyne Junction in Western Australia early next year. Bridgewater and the Brighton Council has the honour of hosting next year’s Keep Australia Beautiful - Tasmania awards for the State.

In this issue: New Youth Hub | Brighton Principal Announced | Jess Hill Event

Authorised By: John Tucker MP, Independent Member for Lyons

www.brightoncommunitynews.com.au

Brighton Community News / February/March 2024

Published by the Brighton Council. It is distributed to households and businesses throughout the municipality. Circulation: In excess of 9,000.

YOUR COUNCIL

Managing Editor: Angela Turvey

LEIGH GRAY (Mayor) Brighton 7030 Tel: 6268 0704 / 0488 390 115 cr.gray@brighton.tas.gov.au

Editorial and Advertising: Steph Williams Email: communitynews@brighton.tas.gov.au

BARBARA CURRAN (Deputy Mayor) Brighton 7030 Tel: 0417 612 868 cr.curran@brighton.tas.gov.au

Published by: Brighton Council 1 Tivoli Road, Old Beach TAS 7017 2024 edition deadlines: April/May edition Stories and contributions: Friday 1 March Advertising material: Friday 8 March

BRIGHTON COUNCIL

Brighton Council Meetings Meetings held at Council Offices, 1 Tivoli Rd, Old Beach Ordinary Council 20 February 2024 and 19 March 2024 Planning Authority 6 February and 5 March 2024 Finance Committee 6 February and 5 March 2024

Agendas can be viewed online four days prior to the meetings at: www.brighton.tas.gov.au

admin@brighton.tas.gov.au www.brighton.tas.gov.au

6268 7000 General Enquiries admin@brighton.tas.gov.au Email www.brighton.tas.gov.au Website General Manager James Dryburgh Community Development Officer

6268 7000 6268 7054

Environmental & Development Services 6268 7078 General Enquiries 6268 7016 Building Services 6268 7029 Health Services 6268 7041 Planning Services 6268 7000 Animal Control Physical Services Council Depot Manager Asset Services

6268 7000 6268 7000

Corporate Services Rates Enquiries Accounts Enquiries Cashier

6268 7025 6268 7001 6268 7000

After hours emergency

6268 7000

All correspondence should be addressed to the General Manager, Brighton Council, 1 Tivoli Road, Old Beach 7017.

BYAG attend Launceston youth workshop In January, the Brighton Youth Action Group (BYAG) took a road trip to Launceston to join the Clarence City Council Youth Network Advisory Group (YNAG) for the day. YNAG were in Launceston for their yearly planning camp and invited BYAG to take part as a Youth Mentoring Youth day. YNAG shared their knowledge on strategic planning, member structure, planning, and ways of connecting with community. BYAG had the opportunity to share their

successes of the year and how these were accomplished with collective community support. From the day’s conversations, YNAG and BYAG have discovered they have similar community goals in relation to transport and community engagement. Moving forward BYAG and YNAG will be working collectively on the community goal of improving transport access over the next year. We look forward to seeing the collaboration grow in 2024.

Finding hope in strangers At a time when the world often feels in a state of complete dislocation, even swerving into the realm of anarchy, finding hope and faith in humanity wherever we are able can help us to get up in the morning and keep going each day.

an article for The Sydney Morning Herald in 2006 called In the Company of Strangers. He reflects on the vitality and hope in the world of those unknown to us, despite as children hearing the many warnings about the perils of talking with strangers.

At a community development conference last year, I listened intently to those who have been practicing in this area for many years, eagerly wanting to learn the ‘secrets’ of being an effective practitioner in today’s world, where social injustices and human rights issues have become part of life in a ‘first world’ society, not just the developing or ‘third world’ countries.

He writes, “I can think of not many things better than to talk with strangers. The idea of being a stranger is also appealing. Some of my most happy and reassuring moments in recent times have been on street corners, trains, remote beaches and winding paths. A stranger appears, eyes greet eyes and soon two people are discovering something – a missing link, a consoling wisdom, or perhaps just a laugh, a gem or a simple moment of pleasure.”

It is nearly always the simple things that grab my attention at conferences because of their stand-out from the overwhelming level of information and social interaction that comes your way in such a short space of time. So it was on this warm evening in Queensland, I heard a simple gem of what it means to be human and the amazing impact of simply talking with strangers. Talking with strangers can spark an immediate sense of connection. These exchanges, however brief, can remind us that we’re part of a community and a larger world. I thought back to times when this has happened and knew exactly what was meant by this. I can remember that feeling well. Michael Leunig wrote about this exact feeling in

Leunig finishes this article with his characteristic wisdom on everyday life. “If you’re becoming weary and disillusioned with Australian values or Western civilisation, I recommend strangers – they’re such a glorious, redeeming wilderness to wander into.” And so it is that I share this, just in case some of us, like me, have forgotten the joy and hope that can come from talking with strangers, not to mention some brief relief from loneliness for those who might live alone and crave that sense of belonging. Angela Turvey, Manager Community Development & Engagement, Brighton Council.

AARON DE LA TORRE Brighton 7030 Tel: 0427 813 821 cr.delatorre@brighton.tas.gov.au

PETER GEARD Brighton 7030 Tel: 6268 1143 / 0418 515 649 cr.geard@brighton.tas.gov.au

GREG IRONS Brighton 7030 Tel: 0424 333 360 cr.irons@brighton.tas.gov.au

JOHN MCMASTER Bridgewater 7030 Tel: 0408 543 772 cr.mcmaster@brighton.tas.gov.au

TENNILLE MURTAGH Bridgewater 7030 Tel: 0479 053 814 cr.murtagh@brighton.tas.gov.au

PHILIP OWEN Old Beach 7017 Tel: 6249 8575 / 0419 333 252 cr.owen@brighton.tas.gov.au

MICHAEL WHELAN Brighton 7030 Tel: 0409 416 353 cr.whelan@brighton.tas.gov.au

Immunisation Clinics 2024 Brighton Council provides FREE monthly immunisation clinics at the Brighton Civic Centre, 25 Green Point Road, Bridgewater from 2–3pm on these dates: Tuesday 6 February Tuesday 5 March Tuesday 9 April Tuesday 7 May Tuesday 4 June

For inquiries please call Brighton Council’s Environmental Health Officer (03) 6268 7029

Please note from April 2024 onwards the clinics take place at the Council Offices at 1 Tivoli Road, Old Beach. admin@brighton.tas.gov.au www.brighton.tas.gov.au

www.brightoncommunitynews.com.au

Brighton Community News / February/March 2024

Temporary traffic changes in Bridgewater Short-term traffic changes will soon take place in Bridgewater as part of the New Bridgewater Bridge project. From mid-February, northbound traffic on the Midland Highway will use Old Main Road and a new Midland Highway on-ramp to travel north. Motorists travelling south through Bridgewater will continue to use the southbound lane of the Midland Highway. These temporary traffic changes allow for the construction of the northern approach to the new bridge, reconstruction of Boyer Road to tie into the new Boyer Road underpass, and construction of the new Midlands Highway off-ramp into Bridgewater.

Boyer Road between Old Main Road and the Midland Highway will be closed. Boyer Road motorists travelling to Hobart will need to turn left onto Old Main Road and onto the new Midland Highway on-ramp to the Cove Hill roundabout in order to then travel south, or along the East Derwent Highway. Midland Highway southbound traffic can access Old Main Road businesses by taking a u-turn just south of the existing Boyer Road roundabout. Pedestrians walking from the east or west of Old Main Road will access these businesses using new pedestrian crossings with traffic lights. Two-way traffic, and a left turn only onto the Midland High-

way, will remain in place for motorists using the new Gunn Street off-ramp. The Midland Highway southbound bus stop will remain in place just south of the Gunn Street intersection, while the northbound bus stop will be temporarily located on Old Main Road, opposite the access to McDonalds.

Q&A: Psychologist Donna Shepherd

These changes will take effect following nightworks that will include the relocation of traffic barriers, removal of existing traffic islands and fencing, as well as line-marking. While some minor changes will be introduced in later stages, these arrangements will mostly be in place until traffic is switched onto the New Bridgewater Bridge in 2025. Psychologist Donna Shepherd has started practicing from Bedford Street Medical Centre and is welcoming patients to her new space. We asked Donna about her career, what services she offers and to clear up any misconceptions about seeing a psychologist.

relationships) and dealing with changes (e.g divorce/relationships, death, parenting, jobs, retirement/ageing, illness). At the moment, I work Monday to Wednesday from 9am until 5pm.

What is your background? I have been a registered psychologist since 2008. I started as a school psychologist in the Department of Education where I worked for two years. I also worked at Headspace from 2012 – 2016. I have been NDIS registered since 2017, providing therapeutic and behaviour support. I have been in private practice since 2009.

Garden Club gears up for another productive year The Brighton & Surrounds Garden Club has had a strong start, celebrating over their first 12 months. The club has worked within the community and also held many events and workshops for members, with a range of special guest speakers presenting at meetings. Keen to join? The club welcomes new green thumbs. You can contact club founder Louise Bennett on brightontasgardenclub@gmail. com or 0407 877 779 to find out more about becoming a member. The 2024 meetings will take place in the CWA room at the Pontville Municipal Memorial Hall, with the next being Monday 22 March at 7pm. To learn more, head to the club’s Facebook page.

What services do you offer? I work with children, teens and adults, and offer individual sessions or sessions as family or couples. I work mainly with mental health issues (e.g. anxiety, depression), skill building (e.g anger management, coping, relaxation, problem solving, goal setting, friendships/

What are some of the misconceptions about seeing a psychologist? People believe that you need to be ‘crazy’ or have a mental health problem to see a psychologist, or that it’s just a place to talk about your problems and then leave. However, most of my work centres around helping regular people with everyday problems by teaching them how to process and understand what is going on, then guiding them to build skills to deal with the situations in a more effective manner or to make informed choices about changes. To book an appointment with Donna, contact Bedford Street Medical Centre on 03 6246 7855.

Brian Mitchell MP Your Federal Member for Lyons

For assistance with all federal matters, please contact me on (03) 6263 3721 or email me at Brian.Mitchell.MP@aph.gov.au

Works Hard. Gets Results!

www.brightoncommunitynews.com.au

Brighton Community News / February/March 2024

Food security matters to everyone

At the end of 2023, Food Bank Australia released its latest Food Bank Hunger Report. In this report CEO Brianna Casey describes what food security actually means for Australians: “Let’s put it in real terms. Food insecurity is waking early and sending your child off to school with a rumbling tummy and empty lunchbox because you’ve been forced into an impossible choice between paying the rent or buying food that week. Food insecurity is living at home alone as a pensioner, convincing yourself that three meals a day is a luxury, and that two – or even one – will suffice. Food insecurity is rushing to the fruit platter at a working lunch in the office because fresh fruit and vegetables have become a treat, rather than a dietary staple. Food insecurity is now

having a mortgage, a full-time job and a side hustle, yet food is a discretionary spend in the household budget. I wish these were hypothetical examples. They’re not.”

is grounded in this understanding. We want to ensure those living in our Brighton Municipality, and beyond, have access to sufficient quality and nutritious food.

In the past year, 3.7 million Australian households (36%) experienced moderate to severe food insecurity. This means, at the very least, they are reducing the quality, variety or desirability of their food and at worst, their eating patterns are disrupted.

Since 2022, Council has supported the Brighton Community Food Hub with the Food Hub operating from the Brighton Civic Centre, using the Main Hall and Theatrette (every second Wednesday and Thursday). Council also committed to work with the Brighton Community Food Hub to find a venue that would provide a dedicated shop front and storage space on a more permanent basis for what has become an essential community service within our municipality.

According to the latest Food Bank Hunger Report more than 84,000 households in Tasmania struggled to put a meal on the table last year. The number of Tasmanians experiencing food insecurity has jumped by around 18,000 in just one year. It is believed the main reason 87% of Tasmanian households are struggling to meet their food needs is the cost-of-living crisis, with 33% of food-insecure households in Tasmania also spending thousands of dollars on their mortgages each month. Brighton Council understands all too well the need to support our community when it comes to the availability of good quality, affordable food. Our commitment to supporting the Brighton Community Food Hub and other community groups providing food services

The Brighton Community Food Hub provides access for individuals and families to affordable food items on a fortnightly basis. The group is a not-forprofit incorporated association and is currently assisting more than 170 individuals and families in Brighton and surrounding areas, which equates to approximately 700 people each fortnight. Council investigated several options over the past five months in consultation with the Food Hub. It became evident that the ‘Scout Hut’ near the Old Beach Community Hall at Lennox Park was the most suitable solution within the Brighton

Bridgewater School for Seniors The Bridgewater School for Seniors said a fond farewell to Geoff Dodge ahead of his move interstate. Geoff has been a mainstay of the school since its inception 18 years ago. Some of the original members of the group were able to be at the meeting to farewell Geoff, who may become a special guest at future meetings thanks to the wonders of Zoom! Shirley Williams had originally put forth the proposal to have a School for Seniors group in the Bridgewater area. Shirley, Elizabeth Holloway and Geoff Dodge attended the initial public meeting with Adult Education to see if there was any support for the idea and the Bridgewater School for Seniors was established as a result. The group activities will start up again on 6 February with a BBQ at Tolosa Park. The Bridgewater School for Seniors will usually meet at the Bridgewater Library on Tuesday mornings from 10am until 12pm, with a coffee and chat break in between.

A list of interesting and informative speakers has been organised and there’s also a bus trip every term. Some of the speakers the school had in 2023 informed members about local council emergency plans, international affairs, the seafarers mission, the

important role of hoverflies in agriculture, mountain climbing in Switzerland and the effect of air pollution on our health, to name just a few. For more information on the Bridgewater School for Seniors, ring Shirley on 0457 024 871.

Municipality at this point in time. Once it was ascertained in conjunction with Council’s Development Services team, that the proposed use of the ‘Scout Hut’ was possible and that the Food Hub executive committee were satisfied with this option, Council officers met with a representative of the Old Beach Scout Group to discuss options. The Old Beach Scout Group has very graciously agreed to give up the ‘Scout Hut’ for the Brighton Community Food Hub to utilise as a permanent home and we sincerely thank the Old Beach Scout Group for their understanding and full co-operation in vacating the building. The Scouts will now operate solely out of the main Old Beach Community Hall. In addition, the Food Hub has received a donation of a refurbished container from McConnell Dowell, to be used for storage purposes on site at Lennox Park. McConnell Dowell teamed up with the Bridgewater Trade Training Centre, JRLFSS, and Build Up Tassie, to help a group of 15 local female students gain exposure to building trades. It was called the “GET” Program – Gender Equity in Trades. McConnell Dowell did this by purchasing a 20ft container that the girls fitted out over a period of about 24 weeks, under the guidance of a Build Up Tassie supervisor at the Trade Training Centre in Bridgewater.

The Brighton Community Food Hub is extremely excited about the opportunity to move into a more permanent venue, with onsite storage and shop style shelving and Council is extremely pleased to advise that the Brighton Community Food Hub hope to be operating from their new premises at Lennox Park Old Beach by the end of February 2024 and plan to open on a more regular basis (2-3 days per week). We wish the Food Hub all the very best with the move and hope the new location provides greater efficiencies and more regular access to affordable food for our community members against this very concerning backdrop of growing food insecurity across Tasmania and Australia. There are a range of food services available in our Brighton area and we provide a directory of these services here in our Brighton Community News to make it easier for everyone to be aware of what is available locally, with many community organisations working hard to ensure our residents don’t go hungry.

Brighton Mayor Leigh Gray

Food Services in Brighton Bridgewater Community House - 6 Bowden Drive, Bridgewater. Ph: (03) 6263 4303 Community Food Assistance - Monday and Friday 9.30am–12pm Loui’s Food Van - Monday evening 7.25pm–7.45pm Emergency Food Assistance Hampers Tuesday 9am-3.30pm Community Lunch Wednesday 12pm-1pm Community Food Assistance - Wednesday 1pm-3pm

Brighton Community Food Hub - Closed for a much needed break during January 2024. Reopening in February 2024. Date TBC. $20 hampers and grocery items from 50c. Please see Brighton Community Food Hub Facebook page for next Food Hub day and details of the move to Old Beach.

Uniting - Ph: (03) 6234 1296 - Emergency Food Relief Services – Thursday and Friday 9.30am-12.30pm

Gagebrook Community House - 191 Lamprill Circle, Herdsmans Cove. Ph: (03) 6263 6097 Loui’s Food Van - Monday evening 7pm-7.20pm Waterbridge Food Co-op/ Pantry - Monday to Friday 10am-2pm (delivery service available)

Vinnies Dining with Friends - Brighton Civic Centre, Greenpoint Road, Bridgewater Dining with Friends provides a free 3-course meal to all in the community who would like to attend on 1st Wednesday of the month at 5.30pm.

Brighton Meals on Wheels - For more information call 1800 696 325

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Brighton Community News / February/March 2024

Riviera Drive and Old Beach Road intersection now open Construction of a new intersection joining Riviera Drive and Old Beach Road is now complete, operational, and open for use. The intersection, constructed by the developer of Tivoli Green Estate, was a requirement of their permit, to make sure there were multiple access points to the estate. Increasing residential development in this area, which creates a greater number of cars in the area, drives demand for more efficient roads, intersections, and entry points. The work was completed prior to the scheduled opening date and without incident. Council and the developer thank commuters for their patience during road closures.

ists experience reduced intersection wait times and safer connectivity onto the East Derwent Highway further north or south. Being constructed to the latest safety standards, motorists will find it a pleasure to use. Please note, there’s a 70kph speed limit on this part of Old Beach Road and 50kph res-

idential default speed limit within built up areas applicable to Tivoli Green. Council will continue to monitor the operation of this and other intersections to undertake any changes deemed beneficial to safety and efficiency. We invite Tivoli Green Estate residents and visitors to consider this entry and exit point for their next journey.

This intersection offers residents of Tivoli Green Estate and Old Beach the opportunity to travel north or south via Old Beach Road avoiding peak traffic delays on the East Derwent Highway. It was designed not only to provide estate exit options but to ensure motor-

Youth Hub for Bridgewater

Announced just before Christmas, a Youth Hub is being built in Bridgewater and will be accessible for all young people in the Bridgewater community, with a focus on Aboriginal youth. The Tasmanian Aboriginal Legal Service (TALS), Brighton Council and Australian Red Cross are working together in creating the Hub. The council will purpose-build the facility, the Australian Red Cross are in charge of consulting and engaging with the community, while TALS will support Aboriginal cultural representation for the community and youth diversion from the justice system. “With a high population of Aboriginal Tasmanians residing in the Brigh-

ton municipality, this Youth Hub presents an opportunity to create a site not only for all youth, but also for Aboriginal youth,” said TALS CEO Jake Smith. Brighton Mayor Leigh Gray said the Hub will become the canvas where young people create what they need with the support and assistance of relevant services. “Our vision is that the Hub is to be co-created, planned, services prioritised, and the spaces designed and managed by a steering committee with a representative from all of the main stakeholders, including most importantly young members of our community,” said Mayor Gray.

Christmas Block Party celebrates community spirit Centacare Evolve Housing’s Brighton Christmas Block Party in late November brought together over 35 organisations, business and stallholders at the Brighton Civic Centre. While it rained heavily throughout the day, this didn’t dampen the Christmas spirit of the 850 people who braved the weather to attend the community event supported by Brighton Council. The Brighton Christmas Block Party is hosted annually by

Centacare Evolve Housing which focuses on bringing the local community together to celebrate and connect in the lead up to the holiday season. The day was filled with free family activities and entertainment for all ages to enjoy. Favourite activities included face painting, a silent disco, 360 Photo Booth, crazy bikes, Christmas craft, a sparkle station and photos with Santa. Material Institute’s line up

of local talent performing throughout the event was also a highlight. Local acts included Shelby Targett and Raspberry Terrapin, the Young Voices Hobart Choir, and the Tasmanian Chinese Buddhist Community who demonstrated four traditional performances including the lion dance. Six local families won lucky door hamper prizes. These hampers were filled with very generously donated prizes from local businesses and services, the major prize being a $310 cruise voucher from Pennicott Wilderness Journeys. The Rotary club of Brighton, kutalayna Collective and Material Institute served up a free barbeque and fresh fruit cups. Bean to Brew Café and food vans offered coffee, ice-cream, pizza and loaded fries. “The success of the Brighton Christmas Block Party is the result of a huge collaborative effort,” said Elise Parker, Community Wellbeing Officer at Centacare Evolve. “We have an amazing community and are proud to have been able to bring so many people and services together to celebrate Christmas.” A further 30 people volunteered to bring the event to life. “Not only did they help with the set-

up and enact our wet weather plan at the last minute, they ensured the event ran smoothly,” said Elise. Centacare Evolve Housing’s Inspiring Future Leaders Program was heavily involved in the Brighton Christmas Block Party this year, with alumni and participants having the opportunity to apply their skills

at this large community event. The Brighton Christmas Block Party is Centacare Evolve Housing’s biggest event on the calendar each year. It is held on the last weekend in November to welcome everyone into the festive season. Its aim is to bring the community together to celebrate Christmas and create connections and family fun.

www.brightoncommunitynews.com.au

Brighton Community News / February/March 2024

Local GP recognised for years of service

Foundation Principal appointed for Brighton High School Mrs Megan Bennell has been appointed Foundation Principal of Brighton High School. Having previously been the principal of Kingston High School, Mrs Bennell will be at the helm of Brighton’s brand new school.

Local GP Dr Chris Hughes, has been praised for his years of service, retiring after four decades of service, while also being recognised on a national scale for his achievements. Dr Hughes received a civic reception from Brighton Council in December, as he retired from his career as a much-loved local general practitioner (GP). A placement at Greenpoint Medical Centre in 1977, as part of his degree at the University of Tasmania, turned into employment which lasted over forty years.

Dr Hughes is a life member of the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) and was named the 2022 General Practitioner of the Year for Tasmania. In 2023, the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) announced the winners of its overall national awards. Dr Hughes was awarded the Rose-Hunt Award, which is the highest accolade awarded by the RACGP. Minister for Health Guy Barnett congratulated Dr Hughes on his significant national achievement during a visit to

Greenpoint Medical Centre. “Dr Hughes has been providing quality care and support to Tasmanians for decades and it is wonderful to see his efforts acknowledged,” Minister Barnett said. Dr Hughes also played a major role in ensuring the safety and independence of the Voluntary Assisted Dying legislative process for GPs and their patients. In addition to looking after patients, Dr Hughes has worked as an examiner and is on the Council of Censors committee at RACGP.

Prominent author and gendered violence advocate Jess Hill to speak in Brighton An International Women’s Day event featuring investigative journalist Jess Hill is coming to Brighton. Jess is an award-winning writer who focuses on social issues and gendered violence. Her book See What You Made

Me Do won the 2020 Stella Prize for Australian women’s writing. The free event will be held on Wednesday 6 March 2024 at the Brighton Regional Sports Pavilion Pontville Park from 10am-2pm, with lunch and

refreshments provided. Transport is available from Brighton Civic Centre in Bridgewater on the day. Childcare is available upon request. For more information, email Kylie at admin@brighton.tas. gov.au.

students and include a multi-purpose hall, performing arts space and gymnasium. Logos and uniform colours have been chosen and building works are progressing quickly, on track for next year’s opening.

“There is no greater privilege or responsibility than in the cultivation of a community’s new school and, although the impressive buildings are materialising, a school can really only learn itself into being,” said Mrs Bennell. Minister for Education, Children and Youth, Roger Jaensch, shared that Mrs Bennell’s extensive leadership experience within the Department will serve her well when she welcomes the first intake of students in 2025. Brighton High School will accommodate up to 600

Neighbours Every Day Gardening Competition Centacare Evolve Housing will be celebrating Neighbours Every Day in March 2024. Keep an eye on the Cen-

tacare Evolve Housing Facebook page for more information about the annual Neighbours Every Day Gardening Competition and other ways to get involved.

CELEBRATE INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY A FREE event with guest speaker and award-winning Journalist/Author JESS HILL

Public Notice: Works in Andrew Street Brighton

Wednesday 6th March.

Please be aware streetscape and drainage works commenced in Andrew Street Brighton in January 2024.

Time - 10am - 2pm

Works will continue until June 2024 and during this time, where possible, it will be best to seek an alternative route.

At the Brighton Regional Sports Pavilion Pontville Park Lunch and refreshments provided. Transport available from Brighton Civic Centre in Bridgewater on the day. Childcare available upon request. For more information or to register visit www.brighton.tas.gov.au/community/international-womens-day or email Kylie at admin@brighton.tas.gov.au SUPPORTED BY

Brighton Council thanks you for your patience and understanding during this time. admin@brighton.tas.gov.au www.brighton.tas.gov.au

www.brightoncommunitynews.com.au

Brighton Community News / February/March 2024

New home found for Brighton Community Food Hub

The Brighton Community Food Hub has secured a new home at what was the Old Beach Scout Hall. The hall will be transformed into a bustling hub, providing locals with convenient access to a variety of fresh produce. With the Scouts vacating the premises by mid-January, the Food Hub aims to be fully operational by February.

additional supplies. Entirely run by volunteers, the Brighton Community Food Hub aims to provide affordable and nutritious food to all. The Food Hub has been recognised for its service, including becoming a finalist in the local government awards, receiving an award for sustainable communities, and its volunteer team winning the Volunteer of the Year award.

In a further boost for the Food Hub, McConnell Dowell, the company constructing the new Bridgewater Bridge, has generously donated a shipping container. Female trade students transformed the container into a practical and aesthetically pleasing space for storing

The Food Hub’s President, Geoff Hull shared his enthusiasm for the move. “When we started we were operating from the Civic Centre, which meant we had to bring the tables and food down from our container – this heavy lifting was impacting our volunteers, many of

whom are older,” said Geoff. The permanent home will mean the Food Hub can open three days a week – Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10am until 4pm, and Wednesdays from 4pm until 7pm. Both the council and the Scouts were supportive of the move, which enables not only more opportunities for the Food Hub to be open, but a safer environment for volunteers. Usually the Food Hub volunteers have a break over January, but not this year. “We aim to open back up in early February, so we will be working hard to get everything set up,” said Geoff.

Cris Fitzpatrick Park stage 1 upgrades to open The first stage of planned upgrades to Cris Fitzpatrick Park in Gagebrook are almost complete and will be ready for everyone to enjoy this February. The new developments at the park in Tottenham Road include: • Installation of a flying fox • Repositioning of a nest swing to the new play area

• • • •

Quad swing set Balance plank Balance log Log hop

The upgrade includes a new picnic table and shelter, and the perimeter of the play area has been fenced for additional safety, incorporating new garden beds and plantings. The Cris Fitzpatrick Master

Plan is based on feedback from over 160 residents back in 2020/21 and this is the completion of the first stage of the re-development. It has been made possible with the support of State and Federal Government funding. To view the master plan and vision for Cris Fitzpatrick visit www.brighton.tas.gov.au/ planning/major-projects.

Colour Run returns for dazzling celebration Under One Rainbow are hosting their third annual Pride Colour Run on Saturday 17 February. Held at Cris Fitzpatrick Community Park in Gagebrook, the event kicks off at 2pm and is on until 5pm. The Colour Run is a fivekilometre, untimed event held

across the world. Runners traditionally wear white and then at each kilometre mark, they are doused in a different coloured powder. By the end of the run, they are all the colours of the rainbow. It’s fun, safe and inclusive. As well as the run there will be music, activities, information booths and a sausage sizzle.

Please contact my office if I can be of any assistance

Catryna Bilyk Senator for Tasmania Kingston Plaza (03) 6229 4444 catrynabilyk.com

Authorised by C. Bilyk, ALP, 3/20 Channel Highway, Kingston, Tas.

SENATOR WENDY ASKEW LIBERAL SENATOR FOR TASMANIA

Please contact me if I can be of any assistance. 46 Cameron Street, Launceston TAS 7250 6331 8501 senator.askew@aph.gov.au SenatorAskew @senatoraskew Authorised by Senator Wendy Askew, Liberal Party of Australia, 46 Cameron Street, Launceston TAS 7250.

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Brighton Community News / February/March 2024

medical 6 Need help while waiting to see your GP? Moreton Medical Group run a no cost medical clinic every 2nd Tuesday. 11am2pm, Gagebrook Community House, 191 Lamprill Circle. Bookings essential via (03) 6263 6097.

Old Nick 1 The Company

presents Shrek the Musical at Don Bosco Theatre, Glenorchy. Book at www.oldnick. com.au.

6 Bridgewater School for

Seniors returns for 2024 with a BBQ at Tolosa Park. Contact Shirley 0457 024 871 for details.

about 8 Learn keeping

your passwords secure with a free info session at Bridgewater Library, from 2-4pm.

lovers 1 Wine can check out

The Southern Open Vineyards Weekend, a self-guided tour through southern wine regions including nearby in Tea Tree. Head to www. openvineyards.wine for details.

18 Unlocking Languages

with Technology is on at Bridgewater Library, from 10am12pm.

70.3 4 IRONMAN is on today in Hobart. Cheer on athletes as they swim the Derwent River before hitting the bikes and running to the finish line. Starts at Brooke St Pier with viewing around Brighton.

some 17 Add colour to your

new 26 Learn digital skills

with this free session at Bridgewater Library, running from 10am-12pm.

MARCH

WHAT’S ON IN FEBRUARY/ MARCH

FEBRUARY

Bike 1 Tasmanian Week runs until

Up 3 Clean Australia Day is

6 Celebrate International

run by joining the Pride Colour Run at Cris Fitzpatrick Community Park in Gagebrook, from 2pm. Includes music and community BBQ.

Friday 8 March, with social rides organised around Tassie. Check out www.bicyclenetwork.com.au/tasmanianbikeweek to find a ride to join.

Brighton 22 Join & Surrounds Garden Club for their first meeting of 2024 at CWA room, Pontville Municipal Memorial Hall. Starts 7pm. Green thumbs and budding gardeners welcome!

Easter 31 Happy to all who celebrate. Enjoy a hopping good time with chocolate and hot cross buns.

back! Eliminate litter and end waste by joining or organising a clean up event. Visit www.cleanup.org.au

Women’s Day with investigative journalist Jess Hill at Brighton Regional Sports Pavilion, Pontville Park. From 10am-2pm. Free.

St. Paul’s Catholic Church 2-4 Paice St, Bridgewater Saturday Vigil - 6pm Sunday - 9am and 12 noon Fr. Leo 6263 6242 St Matthew’s Catholic Church 231 Brighton Rd, Brighton Sunday - 10:30am 6263 6242

Hindu Sri Ganesha Cultural Center and Worship Place 6 Letitia Grove, Bridgewater 400 273 249

New Life Christian Brighton Civic Centre Green Point Rd Sunday - 10.30am Pastor Brian Edwards 0458 505 070

Anglican St. Mark’s Church LOT 1 Kimberly St, Pontville

Sunday - 10am Rev. Rod. Curtain 6263 7700

Uniting Church Claremont-Bagdad Claremont 36 Wyndham Rd, Claremont Sunday - 10am Glenorchy 446 Main Rd, Glenorchy Sunday - 9.30am On the 1st Sunday, services are combined. Venue alternates between the two churches, starting at 10am Rev. Sherrin Jackman 0447 507 059

Uniting Church Bridgewater-Gagebrook Bridgewater Uniting Hub, Green Point Rd Sunday - 10am 0434 799 506

and morning tea for expectant and new mothers. Get support from a child health nurse on pregnancy, breastfeeding and child development each Monday. 10am11.30am, Tagari Lia, 23 Green Point Road.

With 6 Dining Friends returns

to Brighton Civic Centre in March, held on the first Wednesday of the month. All welcome, starting at 5.30pm.

Housing Jordan River Health welcomes new patients Strategy and Action Plan released

The Minister for Housing and Construction has released the Tasmanian Housing Strategy and the Action Plan (2023 – 2027).

Brighton Places of Worship Catholic

a new 6 There’s mothers group

Jordan River Health, previously the Greenpoint Medical Centre, has officially been open since December 2023. The clinic is currently accepting new patients. Bulk billed health care is available for those on concession cards as well as all children under 16 years. The clinic is

open from 8am-6pm, Monday to Friday. Located at 9-11 Hurst Street, Bridgewater, the clinic offers health care services to the communities along the 111km Jordan River. For more information, contact Jordan River Health Reception on 03 6263 7349.

Reportable Conduct Scheme now in Tasmania The introduction of the Reportable Conduct Scheme on 1 January 2024 has placed additional responsibilities on leaders of designated organisations in order to reduce child abuse. As part of this scheme, leaders are required to notify an independent regulator upon receiving concerns about conduct related to child abuse involving a worker. Subsequently, thorough in-

vestigations into allegations must be conducted. The Reportable Conduct Scheme aims to make sure that organisations dealing with young people investigate concerns about their well-being in a careful, open, secure and child-focused manner. More information on the Reportable Conduct Scheme can be found online at www.justice.tas.gov.au.

Being Tasmania’s first 20year Tasmanian housing strategy (the strategy), it was prepared after consultation with key stakeholders and the Tasmanian community. Its vision is to reduce the instances of homelessness so that these are rare, brief and non-recurring. The strategy aims to create a more equitable housing system where Tasmanians can live in homes where they are safe and healthy, within communities where they can thrive, and which are close to their workplaces. The Strategy and Action Plan can be viewed in full at www. tashousingstrategy.homestasmania.com.au.

www.brightoncommunitynews.com.au

Brighton Community News / February/March 2024

What is Under One Rainbow? Under One Rainbow was formed in 2013 to offer support to LGBTIQA+ community, family and friends. Under One Rainbow also has the Brighton Suicide Prevention Community Plan under its umbrella. Mother and son team, Sonya and Michael Williams, are the founders of the group. Sonya, the self-described “unofficial grandma to the group”, explained that they were motivated to start

Under One Rainbow in Gagebrook following a homophobic attack on a young boy. “The community decided that was not what they wanted to see in their community,” said Sonya. The name was chosen because of its inclusive nature. “A rainbow doesn’t discriminate based on race, religion or sexuality,” she added. Run by a team of volunteers, all members have an equal say in suggesting and organising events.

The 2024 events calendar is filling up with lots of fun community get togethers, including the Pride Colour Run being held on Saturday 17 February (see the news story in this edition for more information). To follow what’s happening with Under One Rainbow, follow their Facebook page and come along to their events. It’s hard to miss the group’s members as they all wear colourful Under One Rainbow tops, so go say hi!

TAKE A BREAK

ACROSS 1 Acidic (4) 3 Picking up from where you left off (10) 10 Subvert (9) 11 Fierce weather (5) 12 Coagulate (4) 13 Spreading to wide area (9) 15 Ultimate (7) 16 Cleaning scoop (7)

18 Withstands (7) 20 Siblings (7) 22 Displace (bone) (9) 25 Cut (with axe) (4) 27 Lack of order (5) 28 Meddle (9) 29 Medium size naval vessels (10) 30 Throne platform (4) DOWN

1 Bullet (4) 2 Moves in waves (9) 4 Villains (9) 5 Operators (5) 6 Own (7) 7 Idols (5) 8 Dexterity (10) 9 Squirm (6) 14 Propagated (10) 16 Rebel (9) 17 Unexplained

events (9) 19 Fund an event (7) 21 Locked and safe (6) 23 Suns (5) 24 Peace (5) 26 Stinging insects (4) Head to page 11 for the crossword and wordsearch answer

Quick Thai Larb Stir Fry This is a twist on a traditional Thai dish, perfect for a quick weeknight meal. It’s ready in the time it takes to cook the rice. Serve with a side of sauteed beans or greens to get extra veggies in your day. Ingredients: 1 tbsp peanut oil 500g lean pork or chicken mince 1 stem lemongrass, pale section only, finely chopped, or half a tube of prepared lemongrass pulp (found in the fresh herb section of the supermarket) 2 fresh long green chillies, finely chopped, optional 1 tsp finely grated lemon rind 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice 1 tbsp fish sauce Pinch of sugar 1/3 cup loosely packed fresh coriander leaves 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced Butter or iceberg lettuce leaves, to serve 40g (1/4 cup) finely chopped unsalted roasted peanuts, optional

juice, fish sauce and sugar to form a dressing. Mix well. Once the mince mixture is cooked, stir through the dressing, coriander leaves and onion. Mix well and serve with jasmine or brown rice, lettuce, and topped with peanuts (optional). Note: The preprepared lemongrass is easy and you can buy this on ‘special’ sometimes at the supermarket. The recipe works well if you double the quantities for a big batch. Refrigerate and use leftovers within three days.

Method: Heat oil in the wok or heavy-based frying pan over high heat. Add the mince, lemongrass and chilli (optional) and cook, breaking up the mince with a wooden spoon, for 5 minutes or until the mince changes colour and is cooked through. Meanwhile, in a small bowl or jug mix together the lemon rind, lemon

WORDS TO FIND: Theme: Rivers Amazon Amstel Aras Arno Avon

Congo Danube Ganges Hudson Indus Loire Mekong

Murray Niger Nile Rhine Seine Severn Styx

Thames Tiber Tigris Trent Tyne Volga Yarra

www.brightoncommunitynews.com.au

Brighton Community News / February/March 2024

IT equipment boosts offerings at Community Hall Old Beach Community Hall now has IT equipment for use, thanks in part to Brian Mitchell MP and a government grant. Previously people hiring the hall had to bring their own laptops and use a projector for presentations. A new communal laptop and

screen has already been put to use, with a community forum being held a week after its installation in the hall. The hall is used regularly by a Scout group, a playgroup and several health and fitness community groups. It is available for hire for private functions, training,

social events and fitness activities. A spokesperson for Old Beach Community Hall said that with a growing range of community members looking at hiring local spaces, the new IT equipment is a great asset for the hall.

A sustainable approach to holiday celebrations With Christmas over and Easter approaching, it’s worthwhile thinking about what you can recycle from your celebratory goodies.

wrappers, roll the foil into a ball about the size of your fist (a good excuse to enjoy more than one chocolate egg!) – this will prevent the foil from falling through the recycling machinery and ending up in landfill. Maybe keep a ball for you to add to as you enjoy your chocolate stash.

As well as the paper packaging from any presents, egg cartons can also be recycled. Made from paper pulp, these cartons are biodegradable and suitable for composting too. Decorations can be recycled if they are paper; you can also give these a second-life by re-using them, donating or using them for craft projects.

For more information on what can go into your kerbside recycling bin, check out www. brighton.tas.gov.au/property/ waste.

And don’t forget the foil from Easter egg packaging. Aluminum foil, widely used to wrap chocolate eggs, can be recycled. Even the tiniest scraps of wrapping make a difference, with recycling helping reduce the energy consumption associated with aluminum production. To recycle Easter egg

Tassie beekeeper registration update It is vital that every beekeeper across Tasmania is registered. Registration is one of our most powerful tools to protect the bee population from pests and diseases. Registration of beekeeping activities is compulsory for all Tasmanian commercial and recreational beekeepers. Beekeepers can register or renew using Biosecurity Tasmania’s online system called BeeTAS. BeeTAS. Biosecurity Tasmania has implemented BeeTAS to assist beekeepers with managing their registrations. BeeTAS can be accessed at www.nre.

tas.gov.au/beekeeper-registration. The online system allows beekeepers to: • Register or renew their registration; • Maintain their apiary site information; • Record inspection details, record hive purchases, disposals and hive movements; and • Upload training certification and laboratory results. Already a registered beekeeper? If you have registered as a beekeeper in Tasmania since December 2022 your

information has been automatically carried across to BeeTAS. You can log into BeeTAS using the email you provided when you first registered. If you have not re-registered since December 2022, you can now easily do so with BeeTAS. Need further help? If you need help with registration, have limited online access or have any other BeeTAS questions, please contact Biosecurity Tasmania at honeybee. biosecurity@nre.tas.gov.au. For more information on BeeTAS, visit www.nre.tas.gov.au/ beekeeper-registration.

Upcoming Events In Brighton •

•

Pride Run on Saturday 17 February 2pm to 5pm at Cris Fitzpatrick Community Park. International Women’s Day on Wednesday 6 March 10am-2pm at the Brighton Regional Sports Pavilion, Pontville Park. Youth Week Event and

•

Pump Track Opening on Saturday 13 April 11am to 2pm at the Bridgewater Foreshore Parklands. Brighton Council Community Awards will be held on Thursday 23 May from 10am to 12pm at the Brighton Civic Centre.

Fire Hazards Owners and occupiers of land in the Municipality are reminded that over the coming months abatement notices will be issued, where considered necessary, for the appropriate clearing of fire hazards.

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Under the Local Government Act 1993, Council is required to issue Fire Abatement Notices that call for the removal of the hazard within a specified time period. Advice on accessing assistance to clear such hazards may be obtained through council. Failure to remove fire hazards by the specified time, could lead to compulsory clearance at the property owner’s expense. For further information or for reporting of a potential fire hazard, please contact Council on (03) 6268 7000. Signed: James Dryburgh GENERAL MANAGER

admin@brighton.tas.gov.au www.brighton.tas.gov.au

www.brightoncommunitynews.com.au

Brighton Community News / February/March 2024

Brighton Council Gagebrook brothers represent awarded an Open Tassie at BMX Championships Spaces grant Fifteen Tasmanian councils will share in $2.9 million of funding through the Open Spaces Grant Program, including Brighton Council. The grant will allow Council to construct the muchanticipated walking trail to link Bridgewater Parkland 1 behind the Bridgewater Library and the Foreshore Parkland at Eddington Street. In addition, it will also fund a basketball half court at the Foreshore Parkland and an off-lead dog park on the foreshore near Gunn St.

President of the Local Government Association of Tasmania, Mayor Mick Tucker, said that these grants provide councils with an opportunity to enrich the lives of their residents. “Communities and councils in all regions of the State will benefit,” Mr Tucker said. “Leveraging council co-funding, Round 1 projects will deliver more than $5 million in total infrastructure investment to support healthy and active communities.”

Wordsearch secret message: Rolling

Two Gagebrook brothers rode up a storm late last year at the BMX Championships 2023 in Victoria, representing their home state of Tasmania.

Tylah and Blaine took up the sport several years ago, both racing for Southern City BMX Club in Hobart. Thanks to community support, including a donation from Jen Butler MP which assisted the brothers to travel to the championships, Tylah and Blaine enjoyed their first year at the competition. “Without the support of the community, Tylah and Blaine would not have been able to pursue their goals,” said their mother, Jandi Speakman. Tylah and Blaine would like to further their racing and are eager to make the 2024 BMX Championships even more successful. Another goal they share is to introduce BMX riding to other teens so that it can be as positive an influence for others as it was for them. “They

more children to get involved in the sport,” said Jandi. All the best boys!

would love to see more youth off the streets, joining this amazing sport; to encourage

Brighton Community Awards to be held in National Volunteer Week In August last year Council decided to change the Australia Day Citizen of the Year Awards to become the Brighton Council Community Awards, to be held during National Volunteer Week in May of each year. These awards will replace the Australia Day Citizen of the Year Awards that were previously held in January to focus on our local community heroes and volunteers during volunteer week. The new awards will become part of a week-long celebration of local volunteers, living here in the Brighton Municipality. The National Volunteer Week celebrations will include the launch of Brighton Council’s Safeguarding Volunteering Strategy that has been co-creat-

ed with local volunteers, a series of stories featuring some of our unsung heroes who volunteer in our community talking about why they do what they do plus Brighton Alive will sponsor a Jeder Institute two day workshop on the practice of Asset Based Community Development (ABCD) for members of our community and last but not least the Brighton Community Awards Ceremony, which will be held as a Civic Reception hosted by the Mayor on Thursday 23 May from 10am-12pm to announce the winners. Nominations for the Brighton Community Awards will be open Friday 1 March 2024. Brighton Council invites nominations from residents of the municipality.

. JOBS. HEALTH. COMMUNITY

Rebecca

White mp

The award categories will be as follows: • • •

Citizen (Volunteer) of the Year Award Young Citizen (Volunteer) Award (up to 25 years of age at 31 May, 2024) Community Initiative/Event of the Year Award

A complete description of the contributions made by the nominee/events organisers is essential. Individual nominees must include their name, address, and date of birth. Nominations close on Wednesday 1 May 2024 and may be lodged online at www. brighton.tas.gov.au/community, sent to Kylie at admin@brighton.tas.gov.au or posted to Kylie at Brighton Council Offices, 1 Tivoli Rd, Old Beach TAS 7017.

Liberal Member for Lyons MP

Listening, Caring, Delivering.

Labor Member for Lyons

 rebecca.white@parliament.tas.gov.au 6212 2225 Authorised by REBECCA WHITE, 33 COLE ST, SORELL

15 High Street, New Norfolk TAS 7140 (03) 6701 2170 GuyBarnettMP guy.barnett@dpac.tas.gov.au Authorised by Guy Barnett, 15 High Street, New Norfolk TAS 7140.

12 Profile: Joselle has truly found her place

www.brightoncommunitynews.com.au

Brighton Community News / February/March 2024

Bean to Brew café reveals pretty quickly why she is so good at what she does. Joselle currently works for Australian Red Cross Tasmania as a place-based worker in the Brighton Municipality. This role is all about listening to the community voice, hearing what is being said and empowering community to act, which includes providing funding where possible.

Joselle Griffin, or Joey as she is known to her friends, grew up and has lived in Bridgewater for much of her life. She was 11 years old when she moved to Bridgewater and went on to attend the old Bridgewater High School. Joselle and her family never really left the 7030 postcode after that move and she has maintained a very strong connection to the people and place ever since. Joselle is a champion of placebased participatory community building and is a natural practitioner of Asset Based Community Development (ABCD), she knows her ABCD that’s for sure! In fact she has dedicated most of her life to it and it is inherent in who she is and how she was brought up. What is ABCD? ABCD and placed-based participatory community building may sound like a lot of ‘touchy feely’ jargon but to see this in practice and Joselle’s work in our community makes you realise it is anything but. So let’s get the definitions out of the way and get down to what these things mean in real life and in Joselle’s life, as the case may be. According to the Jeder Institute, participatory community building is about supporting authentic social change through increased community engagement and participation. The aim is to engage, inspire and activate community to support a connected community, empower community members by strengthening relationships and shift the community mindset to one of positive discovery rather than focusing on the negatives. Asset Based Community Development (ABCD) complements this through: • Focusing on community assets and strengths rather than problems and needs • Identifying and mobilising community and individual assets, skills and passions • Building community leadership • Building relationships. How is Joselle an ABCD champion? A chat with Joselle over coffee and some lunch at the local

She is a proud Tasmanian Aboriginal woman and sees her work as an extension of her culture. She has a strong commitment to First Nations people and cultures. She doesn’t have an office out here; the community is her office and guides her on where she needs to be at any given time. “My work is a ground up rather than top down approach, it is the only way that lasting change happens. I have seen it works and the power of community. I have always believed solutions come from the people themselves,” explains Joselle. The creation of the Brighton Community Food Hub, by community for community, is an example Joselle feels really epitomises what ABCD work is all about and how her work at Australian Red Cross was able to support this. “You listen, you support, you let people take control and become self-sufficient and then you move out. We consulted with community on what was most needed, we asked what people wanted us to do to support. This started with Aboriginal community members explaining what they thought was most important. Ultimately what effects the Aboriginal community members will affect everyone else. Red Cross assisted with the months of planning and the trial for the ‘Food Security Alliance’. A proposal was then pulled together and taken to the Brighton Lions Club who agreed to take it on, and the Brighton Community Food Hub was born! We didn’t jump in and take control. It needed to be owned by community members.” Joselle has great memories of her time at the local high school and remembers an intense sense of pride in the school, the people and the place amongst the students and teachers. Joselle along with other local students were able to be part of a Junior Council facilitated by Brighton Council to teach students about local government, decision making and democracy. “I was the Secretary of Junior Council and there was a strong connection to Council and schools in those days, with the opportunity to discuss issues that were affecting us directly with Council. We knew life was

tough for many but it didn’t stop us from achieving. The Brighton Youth Action Group or BYAG is not a new thing to our area but young people taking on a leadership role as a group like this did slip away for a while and I’m so excited to be part of supporting the BYAG to achieve their goals all these years later.” Joselle said.

IRONMAN returns to Brighton IRONMAN 70.3 will return to Hobart in February, with the race hub, swim start and finish centered in the city, but with many spots to view around Brighton. Athletes will dive into the River Derwent, followed by a challenging bike course out to Gagebrook and back along the

East Derwent Highway, then a run to finish off the event. Proceedings kick off on Friday 2 February 2024, with the main event happening on Sunday 4 February. For news on road closures and the scheduling of events, visit www.ironman.com/im703tasmania

When Joselle finished school, she went to UTAS and after completing a Bachelor of Arts she went on to complete a Social Work degree. She believes this was the start of ‘the fire in her belly’ to achieve justice for those who need it most. “While I was at uni, I wrote to Cris Fitzpatrick, who was a mum living here in our area doing what we now call ABCD. She was a strong local woman who wanted to make lasting change and a difference for her community. I thanked her for being a role model and lighting the fire in my belly for change and justice. She wrote back to say how proud she was of me and I didn’t realise the impact that had on me until much later on. I never planned to stay and work in Bridgewater.” she says. After Joselle graduated, she spent 10 years in crisis work at the Hobart Women’s Shelter. She left to start her family and her journey into more formal place-based participatory community development began. Eventually this took her into the world of ‘Connected Beginnings’, a Federal Government supported program to help prepare 0-5 year olds to get ready for school. This was an ideal way to focus on making change in her local community as a mum and she was part of listening and learning through gathering ‘1000 voices’ from community members and families to understand the real strengths and opportunities available to instigate change. ‘1000 Voices’ revealed a really simple juxtaposition of thinking in the community. There were those who said, “We need to do something about these kids playing up all the time!” and there were those who said, “We need something for our kids to do too!” “I tend to focus on just two community needs at any one time and these things are things I have always been asked to get involved with and support so my focus at the moment is young people and in particular the BYAG, and cultural connection, which involves a cultural craft group,” Joselle says. Joselle holds dear a learning from her training with the Jeder Institute that focuses on the importance of relationships and drives how she works everyday - “Change in community runs at the speed of trust.”

Audio Visual Equipment Now Available at Old Beach Community Hall Upon request, users of the Old Beach Community Hall now have access to a range of new audio visual equipment for meetings and events. This includes: •

A 65cm smart TV/monitor

•

Web cam

•

Laptop hire.

This has been made possible through a Federal Government Stronger Communities Programme Grant. For more information or bookings contact Council’s Facilities Management Officer: Email: bookings@brighton.tas.gov.au Phone: (03) 6268 7050

admin@brighton.tas.gov.au www.brighton.tas.gov.au