The Hobart / Launceston Magazine June 2025

Contemporary comfort in a prime location

19/11 FLAMENCO CIRCLE GLENORCHY

This townhouse is a seamless blend of contemporary design & effortless living. Perfectly positioned, it offers an ideal combination of modern comforts & a low-maintenance lifestyle. The open-plan layout exudes both style & practicality. The sleek kitchen is fitted with high-end Smeg appliances, promising both elegance & functionality for your culinary needs. A Daikin split system ensures yearround comfort.

Sandy Bay • New Town • Rosny Park

WELCOME TO THE HOBART/LAUNCESTON MAGAZINE

Welcome to June, the beginning of winter. We hope you’ve got your puffer jacket handy for these cooler days and longer nights as our wild places become more alluring, untamed, and alive, while the streets of our cities and towns light up for festivities.

This edition we’ve partnered with Tourism Tasmania to bring you a special guide to the Off Season. Twelve pages filled with stories and suggestions on how to embrace winter, from the fascinating glow tours run by our cover person, world-renowned scientist Dr Lisa-ann Gershwin, to family-friendly festivals, weekends away, plus much more.

Alongside pages packed with community news, fascinating local people, fun events, and lots of features, this is a stacked edition for you to enjoy. As always, we’d love to hear from you. Drop us a line at editor@ thehobartmagazine.com.au or tag us on social media.

Steph, James and The Hobart/ Launceston Magazine team

Publisher Stephanie Williams editor@thehobartmagazine.com.au

Advertising advertise@thehobartmagazine.com.au 03 6295 3742

Cover main image: Dr Lisa-ann Gershwin. Pic: Tourism Tasmania

Inset image: Chocolate Winterfest. Pic: Chris Crerar

Publisher Information: While all care has been taken, some information may have changed since publication. The Hobart/Launceston Magazine regrets it can’t accept liabilities from errors or omissions contained in this magazine. The publisher reserves the right to refuse, withdraw or amend all advertisements without explanation. Reproduction in whole or part without permission is prohibited. The views expressed in articles and advertisements are not endorsed by the editor or publishers. We welcome any questions, feedback or submissions, email editor@thehobartmagazine.com.au, or drop us a line at PO Box 315, South Hobart, TAS, 7004.

The editorial partnership with Tourism Tasmania in this edition is undertaken on a commercial basis.

The Hobart/Launceston Magazine acknowledges the Tasmanian Aboriginal People as the Traditional Owners and ongoing custodians of Lutruwita/Tasmania. We pay our respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and to their Elders past, present and emerging. www.thehobartmagazine.com.au

LISA NELSON

Lisa is the co-leader of Days for Girls Derwent, a local group of women who meet in Bridgewater to create kits of fabric reusable menstrual pads for women in need, and they’ve recently partnered with the Migrant Resource Centre in Glenorchy.

Where did you grow up and where do you live now? I grew up in Melbourne but moved here 32 years ago. I’ve lived in the same house in West Hobart the whole time!

What do Days for Girls Derwent do?

We are a local branch of an international charity which creates kits of fabric reusable menstrual pads for women in need. Having these essential supplies allows women and girls to remain engaged in work, school and family life - “giving days back to girls”. DFG also provides women’s health education and advocacy around period poverty.

What made you want to join Days for Girls Derwent, and what is your role?

I thought it was a way to help others that was concrete and would make a direct improvement in women’s lives. I knew that increasing the education of girls and women’s empowerment raises whole communities. I liked the environmental sustainability of the kits that are sewn robustly to last for three years. I joined two years ago and am now co-leader. I like getting together monthly with this group of women and doing something practical with our hands.

What is included in your kits and where are they sent to? The kits include two waterproof shields which attach to underwear and eight flannelette liners, two pairs of undies, a face washer and a waterproof transport bag for the liners, all in a drawstring bag. Our group has sent kits to developing countries such as Papua New Guinea, Vietnam, Philippines and Burundi in the last year. We have also distributed kits to students who use the food bank at

UTAS and refugee and migrant women at the Migrant Resource Centre (MRC) in Glenorchy.

Do you have any upcoming events or fundraisers? We are currently raising funds for our new partnership at the MRC, for new intakes of migrants to the Women’s Group, and to deliver women’s health education and free kits to the girls and young women in the youth programme. We need funds to buy all the materials to create the kits and have a new Gofundme fundraising campaign. We aim to make 160 kits which cost $25 per kit in materials alone. We’d love Tasmanian people to support us by donating using this link: www. gofundme.com/f/period-products-for-refugee-and-migrant-women-in-hobart.

Secret vice? Watching tv shows about babies being born.

What are you reading now? Drive Your Plow Over the Bones of the Dead by Olga Tokarcuk.

Do you have any pets? Goldfish and a budgie called Bluebell.

How can people join or help out? We’d love new volunteers! Anyone who would like to join us on the third Saturday or Monday of the month at the community room of St Paul’s Church, Paice Street, Bridgewater would be very welcome. There are lots of tasks that don’t involve using sewing machines such as pinning elements together, tracing templates, cutting out patterns etc. We bring morning tea to share and our own lunch. Sewing days start at 9:30am and go until 3:30pm but it’s a “come when you can - go when you must” arrangement. Anyone interested could email derwenttas@daysforgirls.org or call team leader Christa on 0418982307. We are also on Facebook and Instagram.

Who do you admire? My migrant English students Betelhem and Meseret who are refugees from Ethiopia and are building new lives in Hobart.

Favourite podcast or tv show? The Rest is History. Dominic and Tom present the stories of history in such an engaging and fun way.

What was your first job? Caring for intellectually disabled adults.

What are your daily news/social media habits? I read The Mercury and ABC news on my phone. I have Facebook and run the Days for Girls Facebook page.

Your favourite place for… Breakfast: Home! It’s madness to leave home without breakfast.

Lunch: Smolt Kitchen in West Hobart. Dinner: I enjoy trivia and dinner at Shambles Brewery.

Dream holiday destination? Europe, especially Germany and Austria as I have been learning German at Adult Ed for a year. I’m off there in July.

Favourite Tasmanian secret? Binalong Bay beach is the best beach in Tassie and my happy place, but don’t tell everyone.

Parting words? Volunteering is life enriching!

PHILLIP MCKAY

Phillip McKay is the founder and gallerist at the Hobart Art Gallery, and artist in residence at the Hotel Grand Chancellor where he also runs a small art school.

Where did you grow up and where do you live now? I grew up on the beautiful Mersey River, in Latrobe, north west Tasmania. These days I live in the Derwent Valley and at Dodges Ferry, with most of my waking life spent at my gallery/studio in the Hotel Grand Chancellor.

Why do you prefer painting landscapes? I prefer that my art is driven by a social agenda. I started painting landscapes about 20 years ago, as a response to climate change and so many of my artworks are dark and dystopian creations, often fused with an inescapable Tasmanian landscape sensibility.

As the founder and gallerist of the Hobart Art Gallery, what qualities do you look for in an artist when deciding to feature their work? I like to give talented young artists, Palawa artists and women artists (who might not normally get to exhibit their work in a gallery) opportunities to show their work. If their work grabs my attention and is interesting and/or beautiful, I’ll hang it.

What’s one thing about being a gallerist that you wish more people knew? Being a gallerist in Tasmania is a difficult business, particularly if you

are providing opportunities for emerging artists. Tasmania’s art-buying population is small and there are many great artists and galleries in Hobart to compete with. I’m lucky I can supplement my income by offering art lessons.

Secret vice? I suspect painting is the healthiest of my vices but it’s no secret.

You’ve said that your paintings may never feel truly finished. Could you elaborate on that? My artworks are not painted from ‘real life’ or photographs where the end goal can be seen. Instead, they are driven by process and a series of decisions. I am unaware of their final destination and that’s what’s so exciting and addictive about this method of painting. My paintings are what one might call ‘inscapes’ – which are landscapes of the mind. And since the landscape of one’s mind is ever changing, as our mood, sensibilities and beliefs grow and change, it can often feel that what was right and good enough today might not be good enough tomorrow. It’s almost embarrassing to say but I’ve been working on one painting, on and off, for 20 years now and I’m still not happy with it! Can I let it go? No. A painting will paint itself in its own time and not before.

What do you enjoy about running art classes and paint’n’sips? My art classes bring myself and others much pleasure and reward. Many of the people who come along to my classes have long held core beliefs that tell themselves they can’t paint. I like to challenge those beliefs and it has been emotional for many when they realise they can! People can book classes online at www.hobartartgallery.com.

Who do you admire? I admire the many people I have worked with who have experienced trauma – for their courage and resilience.

Favourite podcast or tv show? I like to listen to Chomsky, Norman Finkelstein, Lex Fridman, Dan Carlin.

What are you reading now? I’m currently reading The Socratic Method but I read very little. My attention wanders too much when I read.

Do you have any pets? I love animals and have a little licky, licky dog named Mags.

What was your first job? I was a paper boy at age 12. I was always late. Back then (1975), I made less than a dollar an hour.

What are your daily news/social media habits? I get my news through a few independent journalists I subscribe to through Substack. I use social media to share my artwork.

Your favourite place for… Breakfast: I skip breakfast. Lunch: Hotel Grand Chancellor makes a delicious burger. Dinner: Indian Chilli Club in Sorell.

Dream holiday destination? I’ve just come back from Turkiye, Venice, Morocco and Spain which I loved but there’s something about Paris. Perhaps it’s all that art!

Favourite Tasmanian secret? Pig Island.

Parting words? On this beautiful and fragile island we call home, let’s stand up to protect our forests and waterways and not allow it to be plundered by short sighted governments and companies that would cut down our old growth forests and stick toxic fish farms around our beautiful coastline. We’re better than that!

NEW NEW NEW

Treat yourself to Vietnamese-brewed bubble tea and freshly made croffles while you shop at So Dear (Eastlands Shopping Centre, Ground Floor, Rosny Park), in between JB Hi-Fi and Penny’s Bakery. After opening their wine bar and cellar door last year, Caledon Estate (332 Prossers Road, Richmond) have added food to their offering. They’ve teamed up with chef Paul Foreman - known for Gondwana, Great Lake Hotel, and Franklin Wharf - who will be cooking on weekends focusing on local producers and seasonal fare. Those in or passing through the Huon Valley can warm up their mornings with the new drive-thru coffee container Goodwill Coffee (2064 Huon Highway, Grove), next to Willie Smith’s Apple Shed. $1 from every coffee and jaffle or coffee and hashbrown combo sold will be donated to a different local organisation every month.

A new takeaway sandwich shop has arrived in Launceston. Another Wild Thyme (97 York Street, Launceston) is a not-for-profit training cafe with the aim of helping people grow their skills and experience, all while serving affordable fast meals like sandwiches, pies, jacket potatoes, and more. Hobart’s got a new American-style convenience store in Hobart Quick Mart (Shop 1/66 Murray Street, Hobart), next to Hudsons Coffee. Not to be confused with Kwik-E-Mart from The Simpsons. Imagine a place that sells pre-loved clothes where you can contribute to the circular economy… but for babies and little kids. That place exists now, and it’s Watermelon

Sundays (81 Bathurst Street, Hobart). Here’s a fun challenge: try not to say ‘awww’ when looking through their selection of tiny second-hand clothes. Australian jewellery brand HARLI + HARPA (Lower Ground Level Cat & Fiddle Arcade, Hobart) has arrived in Hobart. They create unique and accessible keepsakes to style, stack, and adorn yourself with. Lounge and Blade (441 Main Road, Glenorchy) is a new spot in Glenorchy offering haircuts, good conversation, and a laid-back vibe. At the moment, they’re walk-in only, with plans to expand into facial grooming and a dedicated retail space for handcrafted leather goods. From 16 June to 27 July 2025, MyState Bank Arena will turn into a winter wonderland with SHIVER (601 Brooker Highway, Glenorchy), a professionally built, 30-metre ice rink bringing ice skating back to Tassie for the first time since the Glenorchy rink closed in 2022. It’s set to be a community hub, with daily public sessions, private hire, group bookings and birthday party packages for the kids. And when the sun goes down on Friday and Saturday nights, that’s when SHIVER After Dark comes out, a series of 18+ themed nights featuring DJs like Alex Curtain and Kombi Krew, disco lights, tasty eats and drinks - all while you’re gliding around on skates.

MORE WILDLIFE CORRIDORS ON THE WAY FOR HOBART

Hobart is about to get a little greener, thanks to a community tree-planting project receiving support through the extended 2024 Bupa Landcare Grants Program. The funding boost is backing grassroots initiatives around the country that support the environment and bring communities together. In Hobart, one local project has just secured extra funding. Landcare Tasmania will use the grant to expand wildlife corridors for bandicoots, native birds, and other local species. These corridors are stretches of native vegetation that link fragmented habitats and help wildlife move safely between areas. Volunteers will get involved through community events focused on planting, weeding, and watering native species.

TRY A FREE E-BIKE AT NEW HOBART BIKE LIBRARY

Hobart’s free e-bike library is expanding already. The new program, launched in May, allows you to borrow an electric bicycle for two weeks, free of charge, to see if it might suit you and your lifestyle before you commit to an e-bike. Bookings filled up very quickly, with almost all of the initial fleet booked out until the end of 2026 already. The City of Hobart is adding six more bikes, including a folding e-bike that is a bit easier to store and carry. If you've already made a booking and are facing a long wait, don't worry - you’ll get first dibs to book one of the new bikes when they go live.

BATTERY POINT’S HISTORIC GEM OPEN AGAIN

A fascinating historic site in Battery Point has reopened to the public. The Semaphore Cottage in Princes Park, which dates back to 1818 and played a vital role in Tasmania’s early semaphore telegraph system, is now open as an interpretive centre. It’s the oldest surviving building in Battery Point. Originally constructed as the guardhouse for Hobart’s first defensive fortification, it later served as the headquarters of Tasmania’s semaphore telegraph system, which linked Hobart to Port Arthur. At its peak, this system could relay messages across a 54 kilometre chain of stations within minutes, making it one of the most advanced communication networks of its time. In the 1930s, the site was saved from demolition by the Shiplovers’ Society of Tasmania. Now, Maritime Museum Tasmania has brought life back to The Semaphore Cottage with contemporary interpretation and historic artefacts. “The Semaphore Cottage is a small building with a big story,” said Chris Tassell, President of Maritime Museum Tasmania. “Reopening the cottage to the public allows us to reconnect with a time when ingenuity and urgency shaped the way people communicated across great distances. We’re proud to share this important part of Tasmania’s history with new audiences.” The Semaphore Cottage is now open for regularly scheduled tours.

WARNING: DON’T EAT

WILD SHELLFISH FROM BOOMER BAY OR MERCURY PASSAGE

The Department of Health is warning people not to eat wild-harvested shellfish from Boomer Bay in the south east and Mercury Passage on the east coast, due to elevated levels of toxic algae found in shellfish from those areas. People are advised not to eat wild-harvested mussels, oysters, clams, pipis, cockles, wedge shells, abalone, or scallop roe from these regions. Affected areas in Boomer Bay include Boomer Bay itself, Little Boomer Bay and Boomer Bay East, to the east of Dunalley. In Mercury Passage, the affected waters are north of Lachlan Island, south of the line between Lords Bluff and Ile du Nord, and east of Spring Beach. The warning for Boomer Bay was issued on 8 May, and the Mercury Passage alert followed on 16 May. At the time of print, both warnings are still in place. Symptoms of shellfish poisoning can appear within minutes to hours after eating affected shellfish, and cooking or freezing them won’t destroy the toxins. Symptoms may include tingling or numbness, weakness, blurred vision, trouble breathing, vomiting, or diarrhoea. If you notice any of these signs after eating wild shellfish, call 000 or head to your nearest emergency department. Importantly, seafood sold in shops and served in restaurants is safe to eat. Commercial shellfish are closely monitored by the Tasmanian Shellfish Market Access Program (ShellMAP) to ensure they’re safe for consumption. For the latest updates, visit www.health.tas.gov.au/news/ health-alerts/wild-shellfish-health-alerts.

THUMBS UP

Great time of year to bite into a steaming scallop pie.

Asian noodle soups. Ramen, pho, laksa etc. Can’t get enough, let me at 'em.

Going to the movies alone.

Getting to a street crossing just as the pedestrian light turns green.

Sewing secrets into a coat.

THUMBS DOWN

Putting heaps of effort into a delicious, flavoursome dinner only for it to be rejected by the little ones in favour of chicken nuggets (dinosaur shaped).

Autocorrect always changing “of” to “if”. Stop messing with us.

That one ingredient you went to the supermarket for, then forgot.

CALLINGTON MILL DISTILLERY AT MACQ 01:

Located on Hobart’s waterfront within the iconic MACq 01 Hotel, the Callington Mill Cellar Door brings the full range of our internationally awarded single malt whiskies and premium gins to the heart of the city. This intimate venue offers an immersive whisky and gin experience, complemented by a culinary whisky experience, featuring a menu that celebrates the finest local produce. Contact us: +61 423

SCAN TO MAKE A BOOKING: Plan ahead and immerse yourself in the world of Callington Mill with premium whisky and gin tastings, or elevate your visit with a curated dining experience at MACq 01.

Location: MACq 01

Photo: Rosie Hastie

WYNYARD GIRLS WIN BIG IN USA

The Wynyard Wildcatz cheerleading team from Tasmania’s north west have been crowned division champions at a global competition in Orlando, Florida. The team of 12 girls, aged between six and 12, wowed the judges, taking out the top spot in the Youth Novice division at Nfinity's FINALS cheerleading competition, an international event that draws teams from all over the world. The Wynyard Wildcatz earned their place at the Orlando event after winning their division at the Tasmanian State Championships in Kingston back in August last year. Until now, they had never competed outside Tasmania. This incredible dream-come-true moment was made possible through the team’s fundraising efforts, which included local events in Wynyard like bingo nights to help cover travel costs to the US. Well done girls!

THERE’S MOFO, BUT WHAT ABOUT NOFO?

Throughout the month of June it’s hard to find events that aren't related to Dark MOFO. If that’s something you’re interested in, there’s a Facebook group for that. It’s called NoFo - Non Festival Affiliated Events & Offers During Dark Mofo, and becomes active this time of year. You’ll find out about interesting non-MOFO events, such as Readings After Dark, in which a group of readers/diviners/seers will be present for four nights at T-Bone Brewing Co in North Hobart (6, 7, 13, and 14 June).

50 BLOOMIN’ YEARS

Camellias were introduced to Australia in 1823 and have been grown in Tasmania since the 1830s. The Camellia Society Tasmania, which tends the camellias at Narryna - The Merchant’s House at Battery Point, is about to celebrate a major milestone. On 11 July, members past and present will gather for a morning tea reception at Government House, itself home to an impressive collection of camellias, to mark the Society’s 50th anniversary. Since its founding in 1975, the Camellia Society Tasmania has built a strong community of enthusiasts who meet regularly to share knowledge, display their beautiful blooms, and promote camellia cultivation across the state. For more information or upcoming events, contact Membership Officer Bernard Pryor OAM at irishaven@pip.com.au.

INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS HIT HOBART FOR HOMESTAYS

Each year, Tasmanian high schools and colleges welcome hundreds of international students, and the Tasmanian Government Education International team provides approved homestay accommodation for many of them. Homestay hosts can be individuals, families, or empty nesters, and placements are flexible to suit your lifestyle. Hosting a student can be a rewarding experience as you’ll gain insight into another culture and form lasting connections. From July, over 70 students from Brazil will arrive in Tassie, and more homestay hosts are needed for placements of six to 12 months. All you need is a welcoming spirit and a spare room. Hosts receive 24/7 support and a fortnightly allowance of $660. Recently, students and their host families enjoyed a wood-fired pizza party at Legacy Park in Hobart, helping to create lasting memories. To learn more or apply, visit: www.study.tas.gov.au/live/host-a-student.

THE HUTCHINS SCHOOL

We offer an outstanding education that is specifically designed for boys from 3 years of age in Pre-Kindergarten to Year 12 all on one campus. Places are available for both day and boarding students.

the

we provide for boys to become their best at our

OPEN DAY Wednesday 25 June tours at 9am and 11am

To book a tour please register online at hutchins.tas.edu.au/events or contact our Enrolments Assistant on 6221 4236.

HUTCHINS SCHOOL

Nelson Road, Sandy Bay hutchins.tas.edu.au

SAIL AWAY: WORLD'S LARGEST BATTERY ELECTRIC SHIP MADE IN HOBART

Ferry manufacturer, Incat Tasmania, has launched the world’s largest battery-electric ship, called Hull 096. The ship marks a big step forward for sustainable shipping as it will operate entirely on battery-electric power, as opposed to oil and diesel. At 130 metres in length, Hull 096 is not only the largest electric ship in the world, but also the largest electric vehicle of its kind ever built. It was constructed for South American ferry operator Buquebus and will service between Buenos Aires and Uruguay. “This is a historic day - not just for Incat, but for the future of maritime transport,” said Incat chairman Robert Clifford. “We’ve been building world-leading vessels here in Tasmania for more than four decades, and Hull 096 is the most ambitious, most complex, and most important project we’ve ever delivered. This ship changes the game.”

UK ENVIRONMENT GROUP FILMS DEFORMED SALMON IN TASSIE PENS

Video footage claiming to show deformed farmed salmon in Tasmania’s Macquarie Harbour was recently released by UK environmental charity, the Green Britain Foundation (GBF). The group says the footage was captured during an extensive underwater investigation by its research team, in which cameras were placed inside the fish farms in early April 2025. According to the GBF, the footage raises serious concerns for the survival of the critically endangered Maugean skate, a species found nowhere else in the world, due to the harbour’s deteriorating water quality. In the video, several salmon appear to be visibly bent and deformed, affecting their ability to swim. The exact cause of the deformities hasn’t been confirmed, but the Bob Brown Foundation believes the fish are likely chromosome-modified ‘triploid’ salmon, selectively bred to grow fast.

A spokesperson from Salmon Tasmania told us they’re aware of the footage. “We cannot verify how or where this footage was obtained and are concerned about the potential safety, biosecurity, and legal breaches involved in unauthorised access to aquaculture sites.” While not responding to our question of how many fish are affected by deformities, they acknowledged there are deformed fish in the pens. “Physical irregularities can and do occur in all animals. These cases are rare and represent a very small proportion of the stock. Any affected fish are identified through routine monitor ing and are managed in accordance with animal welfare and food quality standards.”

But what brought a UK group to Tasmania in the first place? GBF was founded in 2012 by philanthropist and environmentalist Dale Vince. Their interest in Tassie stems from similar issues in Scotland. While Tassal is an Australian company, its parent is Canadian seafood giant Cooke, which also runs salmon farms along the Scottish coast. “The industry has successfully concealed these impacts from the Australian public, just as they attempt to do in Scottish waters," Mr Vince said. GBF says its investigations in Tasmania will continue. The group is calling for reforms, including independent monitoring of salmon farming’s impact on harbour water quality, the creation of sanctuary zones, health checks on wild marine life near salmon farms, and full public reporting of disease outbreaks and chemical use at the farms.

BEGONE, SOFT PLASTICS!

The City of Hobart will trial a new soft plastics collection point at the McRobies Gully Waste Management Centre. They’ve teamed up with RecycleSmart for this 12-month trial, the same company

CRAFTING FOR CANCER

Hobart gift store Lily&Dot recently reached out to the community asking people to knit or crochet a facecloth to be donated to the SHE Gynaecological Cancer Group. Their target was 80 facecloths. They received over 225, from all over Australia. “It was wonderful to see both new and experienced crocheters and knitters work their magic — mothers and daughters, workmates, craft clubs and solo stitchers alike,” shared owner of Lily&Dot, Katinka Dineen. The facecloths will be distributed throughout Tasmanian hospitals and cancer centres as part of care packs that may bring a little comfort to patients who have just been diagnosed.

A READER’S PIC BY

ANGELICA GRAHAM

“My name is Angelica, a student at St Aloysius and I am an aspiring photographer and wish to share this photo (taken in the Huon Valley) with all the esteemed readers of The Hobart / Launceston Magazine. This perfectly captures the stillness of the cooler months further down south using blue hues and the reflection of the river.” Thanks for sharing your work Angelica!

TASMANIAN FIRST NATIONS DRAMA COMING TO SBS

Between Alone Australia, The Survivors, and Bay of Fires, Tassie-made TV is really having a moment, and that continues with Moonbird, a local production hitting SBS On Demand and NITV from Thursday 19 June. Moonbird tells the story of a recently-sober dad (Kyle Morrison) and his son (Lennox Monaghan; Deadloch, Windcatcher) as they try to reconnect during the traditional muttonbirding season on a remote island off Tasmania. The series, which is six short episodes about 10 minutes each, was created by Trawlwoolway man Nathan Maynard and Pakana man Adam Thompson. They're muttonbirders themselves, and their own experiences taking their kids out to Big Dog Island each year give the show authenticity and depth. It’s one of three new series selected for SBS’s Digital Originals initiative, which backs emerging talent from under-represented groups.

HOBART WALK AGAINST ELDER ABUSE –JOIN THE MOVEMENT

On Monday, 16 June, community members are invited to take part in the Lifelong Respect – Walk Against Elder Abuse in Hobart. The event aims to raise awareness as part of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (15 June) and highlight the importance of respect and protection for older Tasmanians. Following the 30 minute walk, attendees are invited to stay for speeches and a light morning tea at St.Luke’s. The event is free and organised by COTA Tasmania. Register to participate via Humanitix.

PAW-SITIVE NEWS FOR BURNIE CATS

Not-for-profit animal shelter Just Cats Tasmania has been awarded $424,600 to develop a new cat management facility in Burnie. Cat management facilities offer services including accepting surrendered, unwanted or stray cats, reuniting lost cats with their owners and organising adoptions of cats and kittens. They also provide vet services such as desexing, microchipping, vaccinations and euthanasia of cats, cat boarding facilities and promote responsible cat ownership through education, training and support. Minister for Primary Industries and Water, Jane Howlett, said this funding should also help local wildlife. “Management facilities like these are a key community resource to support and encourage the management of unwanted and stray cats, which can pose a threat to native wildlife,” she said.

SOUTH HOBART PLAYGROUND PETITION PAYS OFF

A neighbourhood petition by the Cascades Playground Collective, calling for a new playground in Hobart, has paid off. Work has commenced on two vacant, council-owned blocks of land on Saunders Crescent in South Hobart, with completion expected by mid-winter. The project was initiated by local residents who identified a shortage of play spaces for young families in the area. One of the driving forces behind the campaign was Emma Green, who helped present the petition to Hobart City Council in 2022. Now that construction is underway, Emma recently had the chance to visit the site with her family. The new playground will include a picnic shelter, bike track, rock climbing wall, swings, a rocker, and a climbing frame.

SOUTHERN TASMANIA STARS IN NETFLIX’S THE SURVIVORS

Netflix has announced a 6 June premiere date for The Survivors, a six-part mystery series filmed in Tasmania. A trailer offered a glimpse of how our rugged coastline was captured for the screen. Based on Jane Harper’s bestselling novel of the same name, the series follows Kieran Elliott, whose life was forever changed when two people drowned and a young girl vanished in his coastal hometown of Evelyn Bay. Fifteen years later, Kieran returns with his family, only to find that long-buried guilt begins to resurface. Supported by Screen Tasmania, the production was filmed in several southern Tasmanian locations, including Kingston, Margate and Tinderbox, the show lands on Netflix on 6 June.

MORE THAN 50 TASSIE FOOD RELIEF GROUPS TO GET BOOST

More than 50 community organisations will benefit from a grant that will increase their capacity to provide food relief. The Tasmanian Community Food Relief Grants Program 2025 is distributing almost $490,000 to local food relief providers across Tassie. Some of the recipients include:

• Tasmania University Union received $10,000 to help establish food hubs to support students at Launceston, Hobart and Burnie campuses.

• East Devonport Neighbourhood House received $9,600 to provide an extra 2,205 meals to people and families in their local community.

• Deloraine House received $10,000 to deliver free meal kits in the Meander Valley that contain ingredients, a recipe card and instructions on how to make a nutritious meal.

• Oatlands Community Association received $7,732 to support a non-stigmatising community pantry where people can pack their own hampers with dignity and respect.

ONE MILLION CONTAINERS RETURNED IN FOUR DAYS

Tasmania’s new Recycle Rewards container deposit scheme is off to a crazy good start as it just took four days to reach more than one million containers returned. The scheme helps ensure litter is properly recycled, keeping it out of landfill and our environment, where it can pose a threat to wildlife. People can choose to receive a 10 cent refund for every eligible container they return, or donate the proceeds to one of over 120 registered donation partners. As of early May, the top three donation recipients were Tassie Mums, Landcare Tasmania, and the Burnie Men’s Shed. Aluminium containers have been the most commonly returned (62%), followed by plastic (25%), glass (12%), and liquid paperboard (1%). There are currently 40 refund points operating across Tasmania, with another nine set to open by the end of August 2025. To find out more, visit www.recyclerewards.com.au.

TASSIE MUSICIAN RELEASES NEW MUSIC FROM OLD CHURCH

Prolific local songwriter, and past feature person in this mag, Christopher Coleman released his fifth album, Live at The Chapel, in April. It was recorded with the newly-formed Soft Knees Band in an abandoned sandstone church in Austin’s Ferry, where they captured ten songs in one single session last November. “This album maybe taps into something bigger,” Coleman says. “We wanted to put our hands up for change, to add a few more broken but beating hearts to the side of trying.” All proceeds from Live at The Chapel will be donated to Olive Kids, an organisation dedicated to improving the lives of Palestinian children who have been displaced.

BEST IN BEEF AND LAMB

VOUCHER PROGRAM LAUNCHES TO BOOST TOURISM

Well, Tassie, it’s time to enter the ballot. The state is launching a $10 million voucher program this winter to help breathe life into the state’s hospitality and tourism sectors during the traditionally quieter months. Called the 'Eat Local, Stay Local' initiative, 100,000 vouchers valued at $100 each will be offered to Tasmanians via a ballot, which opens on 2 June and runs for two weeks. Successful recipients will be randomly selected at the end of June and will have until the end of October to redeem their voucher. Vouchers can be used towards accommodation, dining, or tourism experiences across the state, although the full list of participating businesses is yet to be confirmed. For more information, visit: www.stategrowth.tas.gov.au/eatlocalstaylocal.

HOSPITAL UPGRADE OPENS IN LATROBE

The huge $45 million upgrade of Mersey Community Hospital in Latrobe is now finished. Premier Jeremy Rockliff said the hospital is a key part of healthcare in the north west, and these upgrades mean it can now offer more services to better meet the needs of the community. The redevelopment includes a brand new Elective Day Surgery Centre, which boosts the hospital’s capacity to deliver more surgical and endoscopy procedures. There are also 13 new consulting rooms, six specialist treatment rooms, five paediatric rooms, a new waiting area, plus a fresh audiology service and physiotherapy gym, all designed to give locals better access to care, closer to home.

Tasmania can lay claim to producing the best beef and lamb in the country, according to the Royal Queensland Awards (formerly the Royal Queensland Food & Wine Show), a celebration of Australia’s top-quality produce and the people behind it. From a total of 540 entries, the awards crowned the nation’s best in beef, lamb, cheese, dairy, ice cream, gelato and sorbet, with winners announced at Brisbane Showgrounds. Tasmania took out two top honours: Best Steak went to Paradigm Foods’ ICON XB Wagyu, sourced from a Tasmanian herd, while Best Lamb was awarded to Royal Wholesale Meats’ Tasmanian Royal.

TASSIE TOON COMING SOON

A new animated comedy series made by Tasmanians, After All, is set to launch later this year. Created by the team at Turbo Chook, a Hobart-based production company, the show is written, directed and produced by local talent Jess Murray. After All follows the adventures of mutant filmmakers Flynn and Marshall as they emerge from their bunker on a mission to create “the best movie ever made.” Along the way, they discover that friendship matters more than fame. The series features the voice talents of Zach Ruane and Luke McGregor, and will premiere on YouTube later this year. Keep an eye on the Turbo Chook YouTube channel for updates.

SMART SKIN DECISIONS. LIFELONG CONFIDENCE.

WHEN YOU’RE READY FOR A FRESH START

While many of us cherish our tattoos, others reach a point where they simply no longer feel right, whether due to personal growth, lifestyle changes, or aesthetics. Fortunately, tattoo removal technology has advanced significantly in recent years.

The PicoWay® laser is one of the most advanced, effective, and gentle solutions available today. Unlike traditional nanosecond lasers that rely on heat, PicoWay uses ultra-fast picosecond pulses (one trillionth of a second) to break tattoo ink into minuscule particles. The result? Faster fading, fewer sessions, and significantly

improved results for difficult-to-remove colours like blue and green.

With less heat involved, PicoWay also reduces discomfort and lowers the risk of scarring. Whether you’re seeking full tattoo removal or just lightening for a cover-up, it’s a smart, safe step toward a clean slate. Suitable for cosmetic, professional, and amateur tattoos alike. Talk to the team at O’Skin about the best option for you.

A PROACTIVE APPROACH TO SKIN CANCER

Skin cancer is one of the most common, and preventable, forms of cancer in Australia. That’s why the Skin Cancer Clinic at O’Skin is dedicated to expert

screening, diagnosis, and treatment, led by Dr Renae Vardi and Dr Amy O’Brien.

With a patient-first approach, the clinic provides comprehensive skin checks and tailored treatment plans designed for the best possible outcomes. Early detection is key, and regular screenings are your strongest defence. If you notice any changes to your skin, don’t waitbook in for a professional assessment. No referral is needed, and appointments are available from 7:30am to make early detection even more accessible. Combined with sun-smart habits like wearing SPF, seeking shade, and covering up, regular checks can help protect your skin now, and for years to come.

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BONORONG QUOLL ORDEAL

An Eastern Quoll has been through quite the ordeal, nearly drowning in a garlic oil drum at a local cheese factory! As Bonorong staff explained, “presumably intrigued by the garlicky aroma, Scroll had squeezed himself into the oil drum and fallen in! Once he had fallen in, he was unable to climb out, and quickly became saturated in oil.” Luckily he was quickly rescued and transported to Bonorong’s Wildlife Hospital where he was assessed and given his foodie name. Turns out he’d inhaled and ingested some of the oil and developed aspiration pneumonia. He had multiple baths under anaesthetic to remove the slimy oil residue from his fur then spent six weeks in Bonorong’s care. He’s now returned to good health and been released into the wild, presumably far away from the cheese factory!

SPIRIT OF TAS BERTHING BIRTH BROUGHT FORWARD

The completion date for the troubled new berth in Devonport (you know, the one that wasn’t ready for our brand new shiny Spirit vessels…) has been brought forward to October 2026 - a whole summer earlier than initially expected/feared. Buuuut it’s also had a cost blowout to the tune of $120 million. The new infrastructure should be ready to welcome the new Spirit of Tasmania ships in time for the 2026/27 peak summer season. At the time of print, Spirit of Tasmania IV (the one that’s been having a lovely Scottish holiday) was expected to have departed Leith for an approximately 36 day voyage that should bring her to Hobart in mid July, where a final fit out will be completed.

HOBART’S LONGEST SLIDE

Weeeeee! Hobart’s longest slide, nicknamed The Green Machine, is officially open for fun in Parliament Street Reserve, Sandy Bay. Replacing a former favourite slide that was removed for safety reasons, The Green Machine is a 15 metre snakey tunnel slide. It’s surrounded by soft fall areas, some large dolerite rock work, new gardens, a picnic table and new gravel paths.

NEW BRIDGE FOR GORGE

The Alexandra Suspension Bridge in the Cataract Gorge Reserve, Launceston has reopened following major refurbishment to restore the landmark to its full glory. Originally opened on 29 November 1904, the 60-metre suspension bridge was destroyed by floods in 1929 floods and later rebuilt. The latest refurbishment has seen every component of the bridge either replaced or reworked, effectively making it entirely new. Visitors can now once again cross the bridge to explore Cataract Gorge, in addition to alternative routes via the Gorge Scenic Chairlift, First Basin causeway, and Kings Bridge.

EV EXPANSION FOR TASSIE

11 new public charging stations for electric vehicles are being installed across Tasmania. Transport is Tasmania’s second-highest emitting sector, responsible for 22% of the state’s total greenhouse gas emissions.

CONNECTING HOBART’S BUSHLAND

Four kilometres of new tracks have opened behind Knocklofty Reserve in West Hobart, giving more options to explore Hobart’s bushland. The new trails connects Knocklofty to the foothills of Kunanyi/Mt Wellington and were made with mountain bike riders, walkers, and trail runners in mind. Among the shareuse tracks, there’s a mountain bike only track at the top of Main Fire Trail called the Swing Set Track, featuring jumps, rock gardens and drops.

BYE BYE BLUE HEELER

The eye-catching murals through the Tony Haigh Walk in North Hobart that have been there since 2001 have been removed. Painted by local artist Peter Gouldthorpe, these trompe l’oeil artworks featured a flower-filled window, a curious blue heeler and a white picket fence woven with shrubbery. According to the City of Hobart, the mural on the southern wall of the alleyway (closest to the CBD) had deteriorated beyond repair, the reasoning behind the removal. To honour the mural, the City says they will look to install permanent signage featuring photos of the artwork in its original state. The northern mural featuring a bakery and a rooster on a mailbox remains in good condition and will stay in place.

HAVE YOUR SAY ON BUS NETWORK

The Department of State Growth is undertaking a review of the Greater Hobart bus network to deliver improved bus routes and timetables. The review will cover areas such as New Norfolk, Sorell and Southern Beaches, Richmond, Campania and the Huon Valley. As part of this review they’re asking for feedback from the community to learn what is working and what needs improving. Both bus users and non-bus users are encouraged to take part. Comments are now open and will close after 20 June. Have your say at www.engage.stategrowth.tas.gov.au/bus-network.

DEFIBS DELIVERED TO MORE SITES

90 life-saving defibrillators have been provided to community groups and businesses across Tasmania, with a focus on rural and regional areas. When someone experiences a cardiac arrest, their chance of survival drops by nearly 10% with each passing minute, so having access to a defib can mean the difference between life and death. Defibs have been distributed to a range of locations, including community centres, sports clubs, shops and cafes in towns such as Nabowla, Southport, Rosebery, Binalong Bay and more. Once installed, the devices can be located using the GoodSAM Responder app, which helps coordinate cardiac arrest responses by alerting registered responders nearby and showing the locations of patients and the nearest defibrillators.

NEW DEVONPORT TRAIL LINKS PAST AND PRESENT

A 2.2 kilometre pathway called the Spreyton Connector has opened in Devonport. It links Horsehead Creek to Maidstone Park along the Mersey River, creating new opportunities for walking and riding. There are storytelling features along the trail that celebrate the area’s history and community, from Indigenous heritage and European arrival to wartime contributions. Local clubs, businesses, schools, and residents, particularly students and teachers from Spreyton Primary School, have contributed stories, ideas, and feedback to the trail.

LAUNCESTON IS TIDIEST TOWN

Launceston has been named the country’s tidiest town at the 2025 Keep Australia Beautiful Tidy Towns Awards. The awards were presented in Beechworth, Victoria, where Launnie faced off against five other Australian towns vying for the 2025 title. This comes after they took home the Tasmanian Keep Australia Beautiful Awards last November. City of Launceston Mayor Matthew Garwood said scoring the 2025 national award was a huge honour for Launceston, and named some of the projects that made it possible. "The awards recognised innovative projects like Spring Clean Rocherlea, the Launceston Repair Cafe, our circular economy initiatives and a number of community events,” he said. As is tradition, it will now fall to Launceston to host the 2026 Keep Australia Beautiful Award.

ADHD SERVICE EXPANDS

A new specialist service for kids and young people who might have attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is being expanded to keep up with growing demand and help families get support sooner. The service, which started up in southern Tassie in April, is now being rolled out across the state. More GPs and paediatricians are being brought on board, so more children can be seen. Eligible children and young people with suspected ADHD are being drawn from the paediatric waitlist for assessments and treatment, with planning underway to expand the model statewide.

TASMANIAN TASERS

Select frontline Tasmanian police officers will trial using tasers for twelve months, starting on 1 July this year. Up to 50 officers will be specially trained to carry and potentially use the tasers in both city and regional areas. The Tasmanian Government’s 2025-26 budget includes funding for the taser trial plus the permanent rollout of metal detection wands across the state as well as body worn cameras and protection vests.

WHAT’S ON IN HOBART

MONDAY WEDNESDAY TUESDAY

It’s National Reconciliation Day, with a breakfast event featuring speaker Jim Everett - puralia meenamatta, 7am-9am. Later enjoy Hobart Shanty Sessions, 7pm-8:30pm, Hobart Brewing Co.

Happy World

Oceans Day

Fullers is celebrating the joys of special seashore finds with an event for new kids book Searching for Treasure. 5:30pm.

THURSDAY FRIDAY

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Paint the town red: Dark Mofo is back. The Winter Feast is on, as are lots of other events, find the details at www.darkmofo.net.au.

6 10 43

Try dodgeball for fun and fitness at a weekly drop in session, every Tuesday at PCYC Hobart from 7:30pm-8:30pm for ages 16+. $10 a pop.

Environment

Tasmania is hosting a screening of a new documentary about the Maugean Skate State Cinema, tonight and tomorrow, 6pm.

12

See the work of artists from refugee backgrounds who now call Tassie home (including Afghan, Eritrean, Ethiopian, Myanmar and Bhutanese artists) in Finding Freedom, a Refugee Week art exhibition at Moonah Arts Centre.

Proof south: the nowhere print collective has an interesting printmaker’s exhibition at Rosny’s Schoolhouse Gallery. Wed-Sun, 11am5pm until the 22nd.

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MyState Bank Arena has transformed into SHIVER, a real ice rink. Open 9am-9pm from today until 27 July. Check out the themed After Dark sessions on selected nights.

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Learn how to make vintage art prints using archival images at Bridgewater Library today from 9:30am-10:30am.

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Rosny Library is offering an all ages virtual reality experience designed especially to make older adults and younger people feel at ease. 3:30pm at Rosny Library. Register online.

18

Australia and the Trump Effect will be discussed by experts Professor Nicole Asquith, Dr Matt Killingsworth and Saul Eslake at the Sir Stanley Burbury Theatre and online. Starts at 6pm.

25

Head up the stairs to The Alabama Hotel for a night of honest expression, soulful sound, and community connection with Poetica Collective: Beneath The Surface 6pm-8pm, details on eventbrite.

2

Handmark Gallery is hosting a joint exhibition by Emily Blom and Katina Gavalas called to hold what fades + in her threads. Open every day.

The TSO presents Australia: One Land, Many Stories, storytelling with an orchestra from First Nations voices to bush ballads. Recommended for ages 9-14, doors open 5:30pm, Federation Concert Hall.

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Best selling youth author

Jessica Townsend launches her next Nevermoor book, The Mystery of Morrigan Crow, in conversation with Lian Tanner at St Michael’s Collegiate’s Linmor Hall, 5:30pm.

3

It’s the first Thursday of the month, so it’s a Geeveston Twilight Feast night. This family friendly event will have an array of local food and drinks. 5pm-8pm, Geeveston Visitor Centre.

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20 19 11

Killara Distillery in Richmond hosts after work drinks on the second Friday of the month, with live music, food van and local drinks. It’s family-friendly and you can BYO picnic.

Waiting Room – Katatsumori is a threenight art and cocktail pop-up here. Inspired by the 1994 Japanese film Katatsumori, it explores the idea of “home away from home”. 5pm-late, somewhere coffee bar.

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Festival of Voices turns 20 this year! Celebrate at The Big Sing, a huge community singalong. All ages, all welcome, from 5pm at Castray Esplanade. Tonight Luca Brasi play their last UniBar gig, part of bar’s ongoing farewell, 7:30pm.

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TMAG’s World of Beetles exhibition showcases the work of pioneering entomologist George Bornemissza (1924–2014). Who knew beetles were so gorgeous!

JUNE

SATURDAY SUNDAY

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Grab some super fresh local produce at the Tasmanian Produce Market, on weekly at Kangaroo Bay Park from 9am-1pm.

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Derwent Valley Players are performing the spoof comedy mystery play, Agatha Crispie, tonight and other dates at New Norfolk Memorial Hall. Book via Eventbrite.

FURTHER AFIELD

June 2

The Tasmanian Wool Centre in Ross invites knitters to take part in a community knitting project to ensure their door ram, Jim (yes, a sheep statue) gets a nice, long, cosy scarf. Sign up for time slots at www.taswoolcentre.com.au and help make Jim colourful and warm!

27-28 June

Beyond The Forest is a free, immersive audio-visual projection transforming the side of Queenstown’s iconic Paragon Theatre into a living canvas of light, sound, and story this winter. It covers Queenstown’s wartime and mining history, rugged wilderness and unique resilience. Rug up, and book via www.cradletickets.com.

Create a Turkish mosaic lamp - drawing on techniques from the 500 year old ancient craft - at a workshop this weekend at Rosny Bowls Club, run by Art Masterclass.

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Here’s an excuse for a Bruny Island trip: it’s market day, with the Lunawanna Makers and Produce Market on from 9am-2pm at the Lunawanna Memorial Hall.

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Happy Winter Solstice, the shortest day and longest night. Flickerfest brings a series of short films to the screen from 8pm tonight (and the 20th) at the Peacock Theatre, Salamanca Arts Centre.

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The Tasmanian Made Markets Winter Market is on today from 10am-4pm, also on 21 June. Create a natural Eucalyptus wreath at a workshop at Willie Smith’s Apple Shed this morning, 10:30am.

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Bush Gothic bring their version of bold folk songs of convict resistance and survival to the Cascades Female Factory today from 2pm-3:30pm.

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Peek inside Franklin’s Hemp House (as seen on Grand Designs) and hear a Q&A with owners Chloe and Dan at an event run by the Tas Hemp Association. Book via their website.

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Sing along to your heart’s content with the Country Pub Chorus led by Beccy Cole at the Longley International Hotel today from 2pm-4pm.

Til 15 June

Bruny NORTH presents Slip & Slurry, a group exhibition celebrating the elemental poetics of clay and the diverse practices of contemporary ceramics. Featuring six artists: Tim Burns, Jamie Edward, Nicole Adams, Emma Targett, Kate Morton, and Mahdi Chandler with everything from wheel-thrown vessels to sculptural works and experimental firings. Open Fridays and Saturdays 11am-7pm and Sundays 11am-3pm.

21-22 June

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See what’s in season, or grab some delicious premade meals, bread, condiments and drinks at the Farm Gate Market, 8:30am-1pm.

Dust off the kilts and tune the bagpipes: the Tasmanian Highlands Gathering is a festival celebrating Tasmanian Gaelic, Celtic, and Scottish heritage held in Miena and surrounds.

29 June

See the sights of Freycinet - albeit as they rush past you while you run - in the Freycinet Circuits Trail Run, part of the annual Tasmanian Trail Running Series. Choose from two options - a shorter 11 kilometre circuit via Wineglass Bay and Hazards Beach, and the full 29 kilometre circuit taking in Mt Graham and Cooks Beach.

All Month

The Tassie Tea Party is a playful showcase celebrating the warmth, whimsy and creative spirit of tea parties with a Tassie twist, presented by the Handweavers, Spinners and Dyers Guild of Tasmania at Launceston’s Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery until early August. Much like the Mad Hatter’s table, this is a joyful celebration of creativity, conversation, and the many ways we come together over a cuppa.

Background photo: Mathinna Falls. Pic: Matty Eaton

HOW AN ANCESTOR'S CRUSH LED TO A JANE AUSTEN SUCCESS SHOW

New Zealand comedian Penny Ashton is hitting Hobart to perform her Jane Austen-inspired one-woman show, performed over 600 times in six countries, even winning Best Theatre at the Adelaide Fringe. Ashton herself has a surprising connection to Austen: she’s related to the man who may have inspired Mr Darcy in Pride and Prejudice.

How did your show, Promise & Promiscuity, come In 2008 I devised the improv musical theatrical; Austen Found: The Undiscovered Musicals of Jane Austen for the NZ Improv Fest. To be somewhat boastful - it went off mate! In 2013 I sat down to write a scripted solo pastiche in the same joyous vein.

What is your connection to Jane Austen? Just before the premiere of Promise & Promiscuity my Australian uncle (and Ancestry.com fiend) contacted me to say; “You seem to like Jane Austen so may be interested to know you are related to her lover.” Now I knew that as an unmarried gentlewoman of propriety, the joys of casual sex were denied her, so lover was a stretch. But I knew the man in question as he is a legend in Austen circles as being the possible inspiration for Mr Darcy; Thomas Langlois Lefroy. Austen flirted with him in 1795-ish aged 20, and he is James McAvoy in the movie Becoming Jane. And blow-me-down he’s my fifth great uncle. His nephew Gerald De Courcy Lefroy moved to WA in 1843 and is my fourth great grandfather through to my Australian mum. Struth!

Why do you think Jane Austen still resonates today?

Jane Austen understood that love was all well and good, but being able to afford pantaloons when required was also very useful. And people still love a good love story well told. Her works are sharp, hilarious, ironic, proto feminist and she invented a whole new style of narrative. I get infuriated when she is relegated to “women’s stuff” and therefore frivolous.

How can people get involved? I’m very excited for my first trip to Hobart on 6 and 7 June. More info is at www.hotpink.co.nz.

HAPPY OFF SEASON

As we head deeper into winter with crisp days and longer nights, Tasmania’s Off Season reminds us that this season has something special to offer everyone. Whether you’re a visitor or a longtime local, it’s never too early or late to become a winter person.

In this month’s edition of The Hobart / Launceston Magazine, we are delighted to share events and offers that the whole family can enjoy. Our tourism industry has created Off Season offers and experiences perfect for all ages and levels of winter comfort.

I’ve certainly felt a renewed excitement this year as June approaches and our winter festivals kick off around the state.

I’m sure I’m not the only one feeling positive anticipation for Dark Mofo returning to a full program, which also includes activations in the north of the state.

This winter I particularly look forward to revelling in the festival atmosphere, gathering around a fire with friends and enjoying local food and drink from the best producers in our state.

For more inspiration for your winter adventures visit DiscoverTasmania.com. au/Off-Season or download the free Discover Tasmania app.

Sarah Clark, CEO, Tourism Tasmania

Created in partnership with Tourism Tasmania

SWEET TREATS,

SWEET DREAMS

One sure-fire way to tempt both kids and kids-at-heart out of the house is sweet treats. Oh yes. Chocolate, marshmallows, and s’mores are hard to resist, especially in winter when we’re all craving a little cosy comfort. Luckily, Tasmania shares the sweet tooth, and this Off Season there’s more than one delicious way to indulge those cravings (and coax the kids out).

CHOCOLATE TACO TEMPTATION

Anvers Chocolate Factory (anvers-chocolate.com.au) in Latrobe is heaven for chocolate lovers. Picture handmade truffles, chocolate oranges, fudge and pralines crafted with fresh Tasmanian cream and butter, single-origin chocolate, fruits, nuts and liqueurs. Drooling yet? This Off Season, try their winter comfort special: two dark chocolate tacos. Rich and fruity, soft and airy. It’s indulgence with every bite, followed by your choice of Anvers’ signature hot chocolate, coffee or tea. While you’re there, give their small museum a go for a sweet history lesson. You’ll be taken on a journey through the history of chocolate, from its origins with the Aztecs to when chocolate was only consumed as a liquid in the 1700s, to the chocolate we know today.

WOULDN’T YOU LIKE S’MORE?

In New Norfolk, The Agrarian Kitchen (theagrariankitchen.com) is one of Tassie’s most celebrated restaurants. But if you’re after something a little more relaxed and family-friendly, Agrarian’s The Kiosk has you covered. Settle in at a picnic table on the front lawn or bring your own blanket and stretch out. This Off Season, The Kiosk is serving up their take on the classic campfire s’more.

From Friday to Sunday, gather around the firepits to toast house-made spiced biscuits, honey-laced local marshmallows and Australian chocolate.

CITY VIEWS AND CHOCOLATE BREWS

Launceston’s vibrant food scene has earned it international recognition as a UNESCO City of Gastronomy, one of just 49 in the world. Make Peppers Seaport Hotel Launceston (peppers. com.au/seaport) your base as you explore the city’s culinary offerings. This winter, cosy up in a suite and treat yourself to the ultimate hot chocolate experience, featuring rich Coal River drinking chocolate melts and fluffy marshmallows.

A WEEKEND OF CHOCOLATE

No list of winter sweet treats in Tasmania would be complete without mentioning Chocolate Winterfest (chocolatewinterfest. com.au) in Latrobe, held on Sunday 10 August. Make a weekend of it with a visit to Anvers Chocolate Factory for the ultimate chocoholic escape. For more on this event, check out our ‘Festivals for the Family this Off Season’ section.

MUSEUM MUSINGS

Museums are magical places and Tasmania is home to some fascinating ones, each offering their own unique way of bringing history, science, art and culture to life. They’re especially great for families in winter. Indoor spaces that offer a warm retreat from the rain are the place to be this Off Season, with plenty of educational fun to be had.

FOR THE SWASHBUCKLERS

Ahoy, me hearties, it’s time for a treasure hunt! Set on the scenic Low Head Peninsula at the mouth of the Tamar River, the Low Head Pilot Station Maritime Museum (museum.lowhead.com) is Australia’s oldest pilot station, dating back to 1806. Housed in the site’s largest historic building, the museum brings the maritime history of the Tamar to life with relics from the age of sail and steam. It’s perfect

for families, with hands-on fun like steering the ship’s helm, sending Morse Code, and ringing the ship’s bell. This Off Season, kids can embrace their inner pirate captain with piratical activities created by local students.

FOR THE PALEONTOLOGISTS

Dinosaur lovers of all ages won’t want to miss the Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery (QVMAG, qvmag.tas.gov.au) in Launceston. Their Six Extinctions exhibition, running until 17 August, explores the science behind five major extinction events that reshaped life on Earth, plus a potential future one (but don’t fret, the vibe is hopeful!). Come face-to-face with incredible extinct creatures through replica fossils. QVMAG also offers a jam-packed school holiday program to keep the kids entertained, from free crafting sessions and programmed activities to workshops for teens.

FOR THE HISTORIANS

On the east coast, the St Helens History Room (sthelenshistoryroom.com) features over 1,000 artefacts, thoughtfully curated to reflect the different chapters of St Helens’ history. Throughout August, as part of the Off Season, entry to the museum is free for everyone, making it a great time to discover more about the area before heading out to explore its stunning beaches, surrounding bushland, and family-friendly mountain bike trails.

FOR THE DESIGNERS

In Launceston, Design Tasmania (designtasmania.com.au) is the centre for design culture in Tasmania within a beautiful building worthy of its own attention. Throughout winter they’re hosting TasMakers, a free exhibition of uniquely Tasmanian designs that includes jewellery, homewares, furniture, fabric and more.

ADVENTURES FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY

If your family is after action and adventure, Tasmania in winter delivers. From kayaking on crystal-clear waters to world-class mountain biking and snow-covered slopes made for play, there’s something for every kind of explorer. We’ve rounded up some top family-friendly adventures across the island to try in the Off Season. Fun, and far from ordinary.

AQUATIC ADVENTURES

Our island is rich in coastal adventures and maritime fun for eager explorers. You can wander along the shores beachcombing for seashells, seaweed, and driftwood. You can take to the water on a kayak or paddle board. Spot a smaller island in the distance through your spyglass? You might just be able to reach it. That’s exactly the case with Bruny Island, a 20-minute ferry ride from Kettering, south of Hobart. Discover wild coastline, rare birdlife, fascinating history and secret coves.

Make it a full island escape at Mandala Bruny Island (mandalabrunyisland.com. au), a four-bedroom retreat in amongst private bushland. This Off Season, two children stay free when you book two nights for four adults. The seaside town of Ulverstone makes a great family base for exploring the north west, just a short drive from Devonport. Take in sweeping views from the Zigzag Garden and Lookout, then explore charming cafés, galleries and boutiques. And the beaches are lovely for a winter picnic. Apex Beachside Holiday Park Ulverstone (apexbhp.com) offers a relaxed stay just a short walk from town, and in the Off Season, stay four nights and pay for three. On the east coast, Freycinet National Park is one of Tasmania’s much-loved coastal playgrounds. With pink granite peaks, white sandy beaches and sheltered bays, it’s stunning year-round, and the waters invite winter adventures like swimming (if you’re brave!), fishing and kayaking. It’s also home to some great kid-friendly walks like the Wineglass Bay Lookout and Cape Tourville Lighthouse walk, among others. Freycinet Paddle Boards (freycinetpaddleboards.com. au) has you covered when it comes to gear hire, from paddleboards and kayaks to wetsuits, fishing gear and beach cabanas. In Launceston, hop into a pedalpowered kayak and explore the city’s waterways with Launceston Kayak Tours (launcestonkayaktours.com.au).

Cup holders are even included for your winter hot drink! And in Hobart, families can channel their inner pirates with Escape The Mariner’s Dread, a nauticalthemed pop-up escape room by Hobart Escape Co. (events.humanitix.com/host/ hobart-escape-co), returning this Off Season after a popular summer run.

RAINFOREST RIDES AND MOUNTAIN BIKES

Tasmania’s rainforests and mountains are a natural playground for families seeking adventure. After all, the island is threaded with purpose-built mountain biking trails, some riding past ancient, mossy trees in lush, green forests. In the north east, the historic town of Derby is known as one of Tasmania’s mountain biking meccas. No bike? No worries. Hire one from Premium MTB Tours Tasmania (premiummtbtransfers.com.au), or jump in one of their buggies for a scenic forest tour. For a steeper thrill Tasmanian Mountain Bike Adventures (tasmba. com.au) can take you down Kunanyi / Mount Wellington, an epic descent from alpine heights to rainforest trails. During the Off Season, warm up post-ride with a complimentary hot drink from Lost Freight Café, Fern Tree Tavern, or Ginger Brown Café nearby. Prefer something more chill? Head to Pedal Buggies Tasmania (pedalbuggiestasmania.com. au) to ride along the Leven River on pedal-powered buggies. For all ages, you can choose from single, double, family or

group buggies. With extended ride times this Off Season, there’s more fun to be had. Before heading into the wild, brush up on essential skills with Survival Courses Tasmania (survivalcoursestasmania.au) Their one-day Essential Basic Survival Course 1 in Launceston is a fun, practical intro for both adults and children to bush survival. Immerse yourself in Tasmania’s winter playground with a few nights at Currawong Lakes (currawonglakes. com), one of Tasmania’s top fly fishing destinations. With three freshwater lakes stocked with wild Brown and Rainbow Trout, it’s a rewarding challenge for anglers of any level. Reel in the day with s’mores by the campfire, stars above, stories flowing, and sticky fingers guaranteed!

DAYS OF SNOW PLAY

Tasmania’s alpine heights come alive with snow during the Off Season. An hour south of Launceston, Ben Lomond National Park is the go-to spot for winter sports like skiing and tobogganing, and you can stay overnight on the slopes. Get amongst the snow at Ben Lomond Snow Sports (tasmania.ski), where you can book your return shuttle, toboggan, snow jacket and pants, then head up the mountain for hours of fun on the slopes. Afterwards, warm up with fireside hot chocolates, mulled wine for the grownups, and gooey s’mores. In Hobart, Kunanyi / Mount Wellington is often dusted with snow in the cooler months. Make the most of it with a family winter escape at Grosvenor Court Apartments (grosvenorcourtapartments.com.au), and take advantage of their Explore Kunanyi Winter Package. Rug up and breathe in the fresh mountain air as you follow scenic trails using the maps in your pack.

Refuel with a complimentary hot meal and drink, and keep adventurers of all ages happy with snacks and activities. After a day of discovery, return to your apartment and settle in for a cosy night.

TO DUNGEONS DEEP AND CAVERNS OLD

Beneath your feet in Tasmania lies an entire subterranean world. A hidden realm of spectacular cave systems, complete with underground rivers, crystal-clear reflection pools, and caverns twinkling with glow-worms. In the state’s north west, Mole Creek Karst National Park has more than 300 known caves. Two of these caves are open to the public through Mole Creek Caves (parks.tas.gov.au), offering an underground adventure for the whole family. This Off Season, you can become a subterranean scrubber by joining a special three-hour guided tour of Marakoopa Cave and lend a hand cleaning its pathways and formations. Gunns Plains Caves (gunnsplainscaves. com.au), also in the north west, were uncovered in 1906 when a hunter’s dogs disappeared into a hole. Formed by an ancient underground river, the caves are still home to freshwater crayfish, eels and fish. Visit on the third Sunday of June,

July or August and you’ll experience something extra special: live didgeridoo music echoing through the caverns during the tour.

ABOVE THE GROUND

There’s nothing quite like being lifted into the air and seeing the world from a bird’s-eye view. Launceston’s Cataract Gorge is a slice of true urban wilderness, a forested river reserve that winds through a dramatic gorge, just a short stroll from the city centre. This winter, see the Gorge in a new light with a dusk ride on the Gorge Scenic Chairlift (gorgechairlift.com.au), as the sky shifts from golden hour to twilight. Kids under eight need to ride with an adult. Right next door is Penny Royal Adventures (pennyroyallaunceston.com.au), where the whole family can step back into 19thcentury Tasmania. Explore a historical village, enjoy themed boat rides, or test your nerve on the cliff jump, zip lines and cliff walk. During the Off Season, these adventure activities are available after dark, turning up the thrill factor. Further south at the pet-friendly Tahune Adventures (tahuneadventures.com.au), walk high above the forest canopy on the AirWalk. This 600-metre-long elevated walkway ends in a dramatic cantilevered platform suspended 50 metres above the riverbank, offering sweeping views of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area. Afterwards, return to the warmth of the cosy on-site centre and thaw out by the wood fire with a hot drink in your new cup they’ll give you.

DR LISA-ANN GERSHWIN’S WINTER GLOW SHOW

Dr Lisa-ann Gershwin is a leading expert on jellyfish (she’s discovered more than 200 new species!), and fascinated by everything in nature that glows. From bioluminescent waters to glowing snails, Tasmania quite literally lights up during the Off Season and is fast emerging as a hotspot for bioluminescent phenomena. Dr Lisa-ann shares her insights into this natural wonder, her epic Glow Tour based in Hobart, and why winter is the perfect time to experience it.

Where did you grow up and where is home now? I grew up in a teeny tiny town in the mountains outside of Los Angeles, called Valley of Enchantment. It was a wonderful place to grow up. I now live in Battery Point, which I also love very much!

How do you describe what you do? I’m privileged in sharing the world that glows in the dark with people. I run glow tours where I take small groups of people exploring for things that glow. It’s unforgettable to see ordinary things glowing in extraordinary ways. Of course we’ve all heard of the aurora and bioluminescence, and these really are as magical as they sound, but most people have never heard of ‘the other glow’, biofluorescence. This is where we use low power UV lights to see the world…well…no pun intended, in

a whole new light. Brown possums glow pink, slaters glow brilliant blue, ordinary garden snails glow green with little blue eyes and millipedes glow blue or yellow with little blue legs, and well camouflaged scorpions glow so brilliantly that you can see them from many metres away! And flowers and fungi are even more vivid! So what do I do? I introduce people to the sublime in nature!

What’s something kids will love about the Glow Tour? There is something particularly wondrous about being a child and seeing the magic. I begin each Glow Tour by saying that when we are children, we believe in magic, then we grow up and learn that magic isn’t real, but what we see on the Glow Tour is magic that is real. And I believe that that wide-eyed wonder captivates us all, but for children especially, it's something they never forget. The glowing mammals and birds are truly stop-you-in-your-tracks beautiful, but more often than not, it’s the glowing snails that people really love the most, and kids often get right up to them, completely mesmerised. All here in Hobart!

What makes the Off Season a great time to see nature that glows? Four things: firstly, nighttime comes earlier and lasts longer, so there’s more hours to enjoy them in. Secondly, rain and drizzle amps up the glow, and we tend to get more drizzle and brief showers during the winter, so everything is more vivid. Thirdly, the trees have less foliage, so we can see the arboreal (tree-dwelling) animals better, like possums and owls. And fourthly, there’s more small plant-life, like grasses and ground cover, and these tend to be extremely glowy, and fungi, many of which are just off-the-scale glowy!

What do you love about Tasmania’s wild places in winter? The forests and coastlines feel more intimate in the winter, like their personality is more wildly on display. Waves crash harder on the rocks, creating stronger sprays and louder echoes. The rainforests feel more alive with the sounds of droplets of water and breezes in the branches, or with the sound of silence. I feel like these wild places are more alluring to understand in winter, more untamed; it is the time they feel most alive.

What’s your tip for becoming a winter person in Tasmania? Too many people just trudge through winter, crank up the heat and race between the house and the car. But then we miss the amazingness that wintertime offers. My best winter tip? I have two. Rug up so you don’t get too cold, and indulge your sense of wonder.

Why is winter in Tasmania a magical time for families to explore nature together? Daytime activities in wintertime are delightful of course with snow and hot chocolate! But nighttime is where Tassie really hits its full stride. The aurora, glowing animals and plants, even marine bioluminescence and ghost fungi: all these glowing things are wondrous for young and old.

WHAT’S ON THIS OFF SEASON

15

Hive

Tasmania presents Sound in Space, a unique concert series on the third Sunday of each month in winter, transforming the Planetarium into a space of music, storytelling and art.

26

Step into a world of magic with Cinderella: Youth Edition, a family-friendly show full of humour, heart, and classic songs at The Playhouse Theatre, on today until 28 June.

1

Unlock the secrets of the north west coast with Permission to Trespass, which grants access to private properties in the stunning Wynyard and Table Cape areas throughout July.

16

From today until 27 July, MyState Bank Arena becomes SHIVER, an ice rink with themed nights and weekend sessions featuring live DJ beats.

5

Dark Mofo returns for 2025 with an ambitious art and music program alongside Dark Mofo rituals Winter Feast, the Ogoh-Ogoh, Night Mass and the Nude Solstice Swim, 5-15+ 21 June.

19

Light Up the West celebrates the magic of Tasmania’s West Coast. Long Table dinners, live music, twilight markets, winter solstice swims and more. Ends 29 June.

5

Enjoy Geeveston

Twilight Feast, a free family friendly event with an array of local food trucks and stalls in the historic Geeveston Town Hall. 5pm start.

20

Experience Tasmania’s finest at Hobart Twilight Market with local food, small-batch drinks, and design stalls. Held tonight and selected Fridays at Brooke Street Pier.

21

Join the Tasmanian Highlands Gathering, a celebration of Gaelic, Celtic, and Scottish heritage at Great Lake. Enjoy music, dance, storytelling, fishing, whisky, and warm hospitality.

Live local music, food vendors, cultural arts and a bonfire hits East Wynyard Beach for the Gather & Glow Winter Bonfire and Night Market. All day.

10

27 As seen on ABC Kids, comedy duo The Listies bring their hilarious show 110% Ready to Theatre Royal today and tomorrow. 55 minutes of puns, slapstick, and comedic chaos.

27

Queenstown Lights is a free event that involves a projected visual and auditory light show on iconic Queenstown buildings, until 30 June.

28

Bicheno plays host to the free family-friendly event, Bicheno Beams, today until 19 July. A spectacular light and music show every night at 6pm, for 15 minutes.

JULY

Until 13 July, the Lightwave Festival celebrates people and place across the Tasman Peninsula with music, art, food, drink, and community.

2

11 Tasmanian Whisky Week runs from today to 10 August, celebrating local distilleries with over 20 events statewide.

12

Don’t miss the Christmas in July Extravaganza which transforms Ben Lomond Base into a winter wonderland complete with merry festivities and feasting.

12

Tonight’s the first of four themed, immersive Saturday night events aimed at capturing the spirit of Willie Smith’s Mid-Winter Festival Some family-friendly, others adults-only. Bookings essential.

3

Enjoy all things maritime, fishing, and seafood at Tassie Scallop Fiesta in Bridport today, 10am-4pm.

9

The Heritage & Bullock Festival is a two-day celebration of Oatlands’ history, featuring a street parade with music, dance, vintage vehicles, steam engines, and a bullock display.

Over the June long weekend the Bay of Fires Winter Arts Festival sees 30 finalists vying for a $20,000 prize. The public exhibition is open until 15 June. 6

21

Have a winter solstice to remember at the Westella Winter Solstice Candlelit Feast, featuring local produce and wintry flavours, paired with Westella wines.

31

Embrace sustainability at agriCULTURED, a four day Launceston event showcasing the best of Tasmania’s winter produce through art, performance, dinners, and conversation.

12

Beaker Street Festival returns until 19 August with science, ideas, and entertainment across Tassie. Enjoy late-night talks, hands-on fun, and bold conversations.

Want more to explore and experience this Off Season?

For the full range of offers and events visit discovertasmania.com.au/off-season

FESTIVALS FOR THE FAMILY THIS OFF SEASON

Winter in Tasmania is the perfect time to shake up your routine and connect with the people around you. From lively local gatherings to unique cultural celebrations, festivals offer a great excuse to get out, rug up, and embrace the season together.

FESTIVAL OF VOICES

Get the family singing their hearts out at Festival of Voices (festivalofvoices.com), Hobart’s winter celebration of song that is perfect for music lovers of all ages. Held between 27 June and 6 July, the festival features a mix of renowned performers, workshops, and interactive events. Whether you’re keen to sit back and enjoy the show or jump in and join the fun, there’s something to inspire every voice. A great way for the family to connect through music and make lasting winter memories together by the fire.

CHRISTMAS IN JULY EXTRAVAGANZA

As much as we love an Aussie summer Christmas, there’s something special about celebrating it in winter.

In the northern hemisphere, Christmas marks the midpoint of winter. A time for light, warmth, and festive cheer, a reminder that we’re halfway through the dark. Embrace this spirit with the Christmas in July Extravaganza (benlomondalpineresort.com. au/winter/christmas-in-july) at Ben Lomond. Held on 12 July, this family-friendly event brings the magic of a white Christmas to the foot of the mountain. Ben Lomond Base transforms into a winter wonderland where you can eat, drink, and be merry. Enjoy live music, workshops, Christmas Carols, and a hearty feast cooked over flames.

Head to Tassie’s east coast this Off Season for Bicheno Beams (bichenobeams.com) Each night from 28 June to 19 July, the skies above

Bicheno come alive with a free laser light show set to music. The 15-minute show starts at 6:30pm and is a spectacular way to light up the winter night. Hot tip: stay in Bicheno for two nights and you’ll catch two different, alternating shows.

STRAHAN SOLSTICE MARKET

On 21 June, Strahan brings light and warmth to the depths of winter with the Strahan Solstice Market (strahanvillage.com.au/whatson/strahan-solstice-market)

This cosy celebration of the winter solstice is held along the Strahan Esplanade, with the market showcasing the talents of locals. The stalls will be brimming with handcrafted goods, unique artwork, delicious homemade treats, fresh local produce, and beautifully made gifts. It’s great for the whole family to wander, explore, and maybe even pick out something special for themselves or each other. The market is part of the Light up the West festival which celebrates the magic of the west from 19 to 29 June.

BICHENO BEAMS

ALL ABOARD FOR FAMILY FUN

Hear the roar of the engine, feel the power of mechanical parts working in harmony, and experience the rush of winter wind through your hair. From boats and cars to trains and more, Tasmania offers a range of thrilling ways to hit the road, rail and sea this Off Season.

ON WATER

In Tasmania, we’re surrounded by water so make the most of it and hop aboard a boat. It’s a fantastic way to experience Tasmania’s coastline as you can view landmarks you can’t see from land, and even encounter wildlife like sea eagles and playful seals. Tamar River Cruises (tamarrivercruises.com.au) offer scenic journeys along the Tamar River in Launceston. This winter, rug up with blankets and enjoy a hot cocoa station on board as you drift through Launceston and the Cataract Gorge. In Ulverstone, Leven River Cruises (levenrivercruises. com.au) offers a cosy escape into nature. Glide along calm waters with a warm cuppa in hand, be it tea, coffee, or hot chocolate, and treat yourself to local cheese, seasonal fruit, and freshly baked muffins that melt in your mouth. It’s a comforting way to take in the serene beauty of the Leven River. Departing from Strahan, Gordon River Cruises (gordonrivercruises.com.au) invites you aboard their vessel, Spirit of the Wild. There’s something very cool about this boat. You can experience the stillness of the river with quiet cruising powered by electric motors, allowing you to hear every sound of the ancient forest. The winter school holidays are an ideal time to visit, especially since kids cruise free with every adult ticket purchased.

ON THE ROAD

Time to hit the Tassie road! A road trip is one of the best ways to soak up everything Tasmania has to offer during the winter school holidays, with your fam squad by your side. Take the pressure off with Explora Tasmania (explora.au) this Off Season. Their car and camping gear package includes everything you need for a winter road trip: wheels for getting around, plus all the essentials for sleeping and cooking. Take it at your own pace and discover the magic of Tassie. Alternatively, try Tasvanlife (tasvanlife.com) for campervan hire, with vans for up to five people. Light up your winter nights with complimentary firewood and marshmallows, perfect for cosy evenings by a crackling campfire. Picture roasting marshmallows under a starlit sky as you embrace the warmth and beauty of Tasmania’s serene winter nights. Vantastic. Speaking of vans, here’s another great option. Van Experiences Tasmania (van-experiences-tasmania. com.au) offers a seven-day road trip adventure complete with a Tasmanian hamper packed with tasty local cheeses, dips, and nibbles. It’s a delicious way to hit the road and relish the journey. Whichever way you roll, you’re in for a school holidays to remember this Off Season.

ON RAILS

Who doesn’t love trains? Step aboard the West Coast Wilderness Railway (wcwr.com.au) for a journey through lush, cool-temperate Tasmanian rainforest. The heritage railway was built in the late 19th century to transport Queenstown’s copper riches across some of the state’s toughest terrain, and today is an incredible

journey through invigorating forests, all brilliant shades of green. During the Off Season, enjoy the footplate experience where you’ll join the crew, standing alongside the driver and fireman to fire up the engine and tackle the 1:16 gradient to Rinadeena Saddle. You’ll feel the heat, grit and power of the West Coast Wilderness Railway, it is absolutely one of the standout transport-based experiences you can have in Tasmania this Off Season.

Billie Crane is operations manager at World Heritage Cruises (worldheritagecruises.com.au) in Strahan, a family business that takes you deep into the Gordon River. Cruise the glassy, reflective waters into one of the planet's last great temperate rainforests.

Why is winter a great time to visit Strahan and cruise the Gordon River? Winter in Strahan is unforgettable - the air fresher, the mountains greener, the days quieter. Sit back in comfort and hear stories from a century ago.

What’s your advice for becoming a winter person? Don’t wait for the perfect weather, winter is a part of the experience! Rug up and enjoy misty mornings, stormy skies and the slower pace of life.

Tell us about your Off Season offer. Kids can cruise for free in Main Deck Centre seating. Perfect for playing and relaxing, with daily colouring competitions.

HISTORY, MYSTERY + MORE

Winter is an ideal time to visit Tasmania’s historic sites, where the stories might just be as chilling as the night air. As you explore, it’s hard not to speculate about what life may have been like for the brave souls from days past, who faced the cold without heaters or puffer jackets. It’s a memorable way for young minds, and their grownups, to connect with the past while making the most of the Off Season magic.

Between 1804 and 1853, over 70,000 convicts were transported to Tasmania, helping build the roads, bridges, and buildings that still shape the island today. The most iconic of these is the Port Arthur Historic Site (portarthur.org. au), Australia’s best-preserved convict settlement. Spread across 100 acres, it’s home to more than 30 fascinating historic buildings and ruins, just waiting to be explored. With space to roam, hands-on activities, and kid-friendly tales woven into the experience, it’s a day out the whole family can enjoy.

If you’d prefer to leave the planning to someone else, take a day tour with Experience Tasmania Tours and Charters (experiencetas.com.au). The tour combines convict tales with scenic views of the rugged Tasman Peninsula. During the Off Season, kids travel free with a paying adult. The itinerary includes a visit to historic Richmond Bridge, entry to Port Arthur, and a stop at the Chocolate Foundry. Tours depart from Hobart at 8:45am, returning by 5:30pm, with entertaining and informative commentary from your driver.

For those who want to experience a more mysterious side of history, consider joining Port Arthur Ghost Tours (portarthur.org.au) after night falls. Rug up and be guided through the ruins on a lantern-lit 90-minute ghost tour.

The cool air and an eerie atmosphere make it a spine-chilling experience as you hear about the spirits said to linger in this historic site.

But Port Arthur wasn’t the only gaol in Tasmania. Richmond Gaol (richmondgaol.com.au), Australia’s oldest intact gaol, was built five years before Port Arthur. A visit here offers a fascinating window into Tasmania’s convict era, where you can peek inside tiny solitary cells and hear stories of infamous inmates like Ikey Solomon, said to have inspired Charles Dickens’ Fagin in Oliver Twist. It’s an eye-opening experience that brings history to life, perfect for a rainy-day excursion.

Before being sent to these infamous sites, many convicts were processed at the Hobart Penitentiary. Established in 1821, it was originally known as the Hobart Prison Barracks. The surviving Penitentiary Chapel was completed in 1834 and is now open to visitors. Explore the site and learn about the harsh realities of convict life, including the gallows where many met their end. Unshackled Hobart Penitentiary (nationaltrust.org. au/places/penitentiary) offers tours where you can honour convict ancestors at the Convict Memorial by writing their names on a Forget-Me-Not and placing them on the Memorial Wall, ensuring their legacies live on.

Long before the convicts, the Palawa (Tasmanian Aboriginal) people lived on this land for tens of thousands of years. You can learn more about their deep and enduring connection to Country on a guided tour with tunapri (tunaprisciencenatureculture.rezdy. com) in Burnie. “tunapri” means “to understand” in palawa kani, the language of the Palawa people. On one of their family-friendly tours, you’ll walk in the footsteps of the Palawa and gain a meaningful insight into their culture.

During the Off Season, their tunapri Patuyala tour is a 90-minute walk that explores the natural and cultural wonders of the north west, and includes a hands-on cultural craft activity the whole family can enjoy.

If you’re curious about Tasmania’s military history, the Anglesea Barracks in Hobart is the place to go this Off Season, Australia’s oldest military establishment still in use. During the winter school holidays, Tasmania’s Most Haunted (tasmaniasmosthaunted.com.au) invites kids to become paranormal investigators. Armed with real ghost-hunting tools, kids can search for clues left by “Old Jack,” a mischievous ghostly warden, as they explore the supposedly haunted hallways of this military gaol.

For a peek into 19th-century entertainment, visit Hobart’s Theatre Royal (theatreroyal.com.au), Australia’s oldest working theatre, opened in 1837. Take a behind-the-scenes tour and learn about its colourful past, the performers who graced its stage, and the rich history of one of Tasmania’s cultural treasures.

Tasmania also has a rich mining history, and a visit to the Beaconsfield Mine and Heritage Centre (beaconsfieldheritage. com.au) provides insight into the gold mining history of the West Tamar. The site is famous for the dramatic 2006 mine rescue. Visit after dark for a 90-minute evening tour that’s both gripping and family-friendly, exploring interactive exhibits and local tales.

After all that exploration, why not cap it off with a family portrait, old-school style? At Olde Time Portraits (oldetimeportraits.com.au) in Blackman’s Bay, you can dress up in Victorian or gangster-themed costumes for a unique family photo. Complete with authentic props and clothing, these portraits make for a special keepsake to remember your time exploring the island’s history in the Off Season.

COOL ANIMAL ENCOUNTERS

Tasmanians don’t slow down in winter and neither does our wildlife. Our isolation has sent evolution down some fascinating paths, and winter offers a chance to meet the unique creatures shaped by this place, along with some from much further afield. Rug up, head out, and meet Tasmania’s remarkable wildlife this Off Season.

MARVELLOUS MARSUPIALS

Australia is the kingdom of marsupials and for many the first ones that come to mind are kangaroos, wallabies and pademelons. But it doesn’t stop there. Many of Australia’s most iconic animals are marsupials - including wombats, koalas, possums, quolls, and yes, the Tasmanian devil. Devils are nocturnal creatures, best observed at wildlife sanctuaries like Devils@Cradle (devilsatcradle.com). During the Off Season, they offer a unique, intimate after-dark experience, where guests can see the devils in action while enjoying local treats, beverages, and marshmallows by the fire. It’s a memorable way to experience Tasmania’s most famous animal.

PECK-ULIAR PENGUINS

Little penguins, also known as fairy penguins, are adorable birds often spotted along Tasmania’s coasts. The majority of Australia’s little penguin population lives here, and watching them waddle ashore at sunset is a real treat. Be sure to keep your distance and avoid disturbing them. Bicheno, on the east coast, is one of the best places to see little penguins. Stay at Cod Rock Point (codrockpoint.com. au) during the Off Season for beachside accommodation where penguins often

wander through the gardens at dusk, an unforgettable sight. For a guided experience, Bicheno Penguin Tours (bichenopenguintours.com.au) offers one-hour evening tours with expert commentary on penguin behaviour, plus in the Off Season receive a penguin-themed memento to remember the night.

FEED A FROGMOUTH

It’s a branch! Or is it an owl?! No, it’s a tawny frogmouth! Indeed, these bigheaded birds are true masters of disguise, often mistaken for something else entirely. This Off Season, the keepers at Trowunna Wildlife Sanctuary (trowunna.com.au) in Mole Creek will show you how to spot the frogmouths in their enclosure, and then you can hand-feed them. A great school holiday activity, and a brilliant way to get to know these charming birds a little better.

SALTY SEALIFE

Beneath Tasmania’s waters lies a fascinating world teeming with marine life, and the Off Season is a perfect time to learn more about it. At the Low Head Lighthouse Marine Education Centre (museum.lowhead.com), visitors of all ages can explore engaging displays that give an insight into this world, including a crab larger than a penguin, a majestic white-bellied sea eagle, and a whale tooth. Join an hourly guided tour on Friday 11 or 18 July to experience the roar of the world’s only operational G-type diaphone foghorn. Just a short drive from Launceston, Seahorse World (seahorseworld. com.au) offers a 50-minute tour, starting in “The Cave” which is home to a selection of seahorses and sea dragons. Here you will learn about seahorses and their mysterious behaviour.

COOL CATTLE

Ever seen robots milking cows? At Duck River Meadows Dairy (duckrivermeadowsdairy.com.au) in the lush north west, you can! On their Robotic Dairy and Cheese Tour this Off Season, you’ll watch cows choose when to be milked at their own leisure by high-tech machines, roam freely through paddocks, and even enjoy a back scratch. It’s cutting-edge farming with a focus on animal welfare because

relaxed, happy cows mean top-quality milk. After the tour, taste the difference with farm-fresh cheese, Blue Hills honey, and artisan nuts. Finish your visit with a trio of homemade scones at the cosy Pavilions Café.

RAD REPTILES

Tasmania’s cooler climate means fewer native reptiles, but at Serpentarium Wildlife Park (serpentarium.com.au) near St Helens, you can meet exotic, captive-bred reptiles from around the globe. Perfect for reptile lovers. Even if you’re a bit nervous, a close-up encounter with the gentle green anaconda might just change your mind. You’ll see these creatures in a new light: powerful, calm, and surprisingly graceful. Don’t miss the daily keeper presentation at 12 noon, where you can handle a python. In the Off Season, enjoy free kangaroo feeding and a behind-thescenes tour. Families with little scientists can also engage with the reptile library and microscope research desk. Finish your visit with a bite at the Rio’s Café.

RELAXED RODENTS

You’ve laughed at the memes, now meet capybaras in real life at Wings Wildlife Park (wingswildlifepark.com.au), an hour from Devonport. This winter, you can pat, feed and scratch the world’s largest (and chillest) rodent. Stick around for the after-dark wildlife tour, running Wednesdays and Fridays from 7pm-8:30pm during the Off Season. With Tasmania’s largest collection of native wildlife, you’ll hold a sugar glider, meet a Tassie devil, and watch nocturnal animals like quolls and boobook owls feed under the spotlight. Cap it all off with hot chocolate and marshmallows by the fire.

THERE’S A LITTLE DEVIL IN ALL OF US

Shrieking, clawing, growling.

And that was just the drive here.

You booked this weeks ago. It’s been the carrot or the stick at every bedtime since.

But now, after a frosty early start, snow peeking in the distance, the warm and fuzzies take hold.

It was all worth it.

To finally be face to face with his own kind.

Become a winter person this Off Season.

EXPLORE MORE

Devils@ Cradle Wildlife Sanctuary

LY QUAN

85 Harrington Street, Hobart

During winter, few things are as satisfying as a steaming bowl of Vietnamese noodle soup, Phở. That’s what led this writer and his party of three to Ly Quán, a new Vietnamese street food spot on Harrington Street, on a particularly chilly day. We climbed the narrow staircase to a cosy seating area with beautiful wall artwork depicting the Vietnamese countryside. Ordering was simple thanks to a touch-screen menu, and next to it was an array of condiments like chilli sauce, ginger, and more that you can take to your table. We each ordered a bowl of Phở. I went with the Phở Bò Sốt Vang (Red Wine Beef Noodle Soup), beef brisket simmered in red wine-infused broth served with rice noodles and herbs. It smelt amazing, the beef was succulent, and the broth was bursting with flavour. Hearty and very slurp-worthy. As someone not used to handling Phở with chopsticks, I managed to splatter a fair amount of broth onto my white jumper. Fully my own fault and perhaps a testament to the meal that I didn’t mind. My companions ordered Phở Bò (Beef Noodle Soup) and Phở Gà (Chicken Noodle Soup), both of which got an enthusiastic thumbs up. We left full, happy, and warmed up. Each bowl was $22, but they were so generously portioned it felt worth it. On a solo return visit I chose to try their $10 Bánh Mì and it was a satisfying, budget-friendly lunch. Next time, I’m keen to try their Vietnamese iced coffee.

HOME

Pagan Apple Cider

($90 for 16 x 330ml bottles)

Pagan Cider, from the Huon Valley, takes its name from a playful nod to paganism, a general philosophy that honours nature, the elements and the seasons. True to that ethos, they craft their cider using only whole fruits, with no added sugars. The result is a crisp, naturally lush drink that showcases real Tasmanian apples. Four types, in fact, as it blends the juices of Granny Smith, Gala, Golden Delicious, and Jonathan. It’s cider at its purest and most refreshing.

Set the vibe:

Music: Lipstick on the Glass by Wolf Alice Food: Charcuterie with Tasmanian cheeses

When: Around a bonfire after dinner

AWAY

Bilpin Original Cider

TRY 3: Fish and Chips

Crispy, golden, and straight from the sea, fish and chips are an undeniable comfort. Here are three spots serving up this classic just right. You’ll definitely want to protect these from seagulls.

1. Tasmanian Gourmet Seafoods 50 Loop Road, Cambridge

2. Flippers Cooked Seafood Sullivans Cove, Hobart

3. Sealife Bicheno 1 Tasman Highway, Bicheno

($95 for 24 x 330ml bottles))

Surrounded by the World Heritagelisted Blue Mountains National Park, this sweet apple cider benefits from the mountain elevation. Made from a blend of Granny Smith, Pink Lady and Red Delicious apples, there’s no added sugar, just the natural sweetness of crushed fruit. It’s far more enjoyable than the overly sweet, mass-produced alternatives. Clean, dry and refreshing, it’s an easy recommendation for those not quite ready for bold, complex ciders but keen to move beyond the Somersbys of the world.

Set the vibe:

Music: Birch Tree by Foals Food: Apple pie

When: Crisp winter afternoon

COMMUNITY EVENTS EVERYONE WELCOME

Everyone welcome at our Hobart and Launceston wellness hubs. Scan to find out more and to book your spot, or visit us at 72 Elizabeth St, Hobart, or 93 Cimitiere St, Launceston.

THE LOCKSMITH

There’s a story about an American sport shoe company who decades ago sought to expand their international presence. They were about to increase production for one of their prototypes and dreamt of becoming a world leading brand. The CEO was particularly interested in cracking the African market, so he sent one of their representatives across the Atlantic, who commenced research to better understand consumer demand. After a few weeks, the representative noticed an obvious pattern. Everywhere he looked, men were running around and playing sports, but none of them wore shoes; it’s as if they didn’t need them. A few weeks later, the CEO reaches out and asks, “So, what have you got for me?” His employee reluctantly announces, “No one wears runners here. Demand appears to be non-existent. Cease all further production, immediately.”

That same year, another American shoe manufacturer was also ready to expand. They too had their sights on the African market and needed to ascertain whether it would be financially viable before proceeding with a massive increase in production. They sent their representative to gather information and instructed them to provide an update. Just as before, this employee witnessed the same thing. No one was wearing sports shoes. Wherever he visited, everyone was running barefoot. The operative had enough evidence to report back. When his CEO asked, “What have you got for me?” He responded with, “No one wears runners here. Demand appears to be exponential. Fire up production immediately!”

That company went on to dominate the industry and cemented themselves as brand leaders.

Perception is the master key that will unlock the door to your greatest life or keep you chained to the fallacies that make up your reality. Every time you interpret a scenario, you’re influenced by your memories and emotions, the social environment, and reliance on mental shortcuts called heuristics. How we distinguish situations is also shaped by the language we use and specifically, the words we choose. For example, how often do we say things like “I have to pick up the kids” versus “I get to pick up the kids”. When we have to do something, immediately there’s a connotation of obligation, but when we get to do something, a tone of positive anticipation arises. When we don’t get our way, we tend to think, “Why didn’t it work out?” instead of “What can I do now?” Every time we tell ourselves, “I need more (time, money, good health)” instead of “I would love more (time, money, and good health)”, we’re embedding an attitude that focuses on lacking, which hinders our ability to view setbacks as what they really are - opportunity. An opportunity to create a reality that aligns with the best version of you.

Often, we look back on life’s conundrums and see they weren’t as catastrophic as we first believed them to be. A prominent TV producer once told Oprah Winfrey that he thought Oprah was “unfit for television.”

A newspaper editor once told Walt Disney

that Walt wasn’t creative enough. Micheal Jordan was cut from his high school basketball team before going on to be one of the greatest basketball players of all time. There are countless reminders of how perception is key to making life-enriching decisions, which ultimately contribute to tremendous success.

You see, perception is like a glass panel between you and the world. Over time the glass is bound to get dirty. A little smudge here, another mark there. If you don’t take the time to clean the glass, before you know it, the residue grows dark and dirty, resembling more of a brick wall. Practise being mindful of how you frame an experience and get really good at noticing the words you select to describe a situation. “This is hard” or “This has been hard up until now.” “I will” or “I am.” “I can’t” or “I choose”.

It’s in these instances, when you catch yourself, you start rewiring your brain’s chemistry and refine your psychological power. These are the sliding door moments that lead you to greatness. Where others see absence, you see potential. Where they see failure, you see growth. But most importantly, you realise that you not only hold the key, you are also the locksmith. No matter the market, you’re always in demand, and life wants you to be successful in every way that’s meaningful to you. So, whether it’s a business idea, a dream to enhance your wellbeing, or your desire for true love, wipe that glass clean.

Annia Baron is a Clinical Psychologist & Mindset Coach. Want to learn more about mindset tools to create a life you desire and deserve? Get in touch on Instagram @anniabaron or visit www.remindyourself.com

ALUM CLIFFS KINGSTON TO TAROONA SHOT TOWER

Words and pictures: Elizabeth Osborne

The popular Alum Cliffs Track follows the coastline from Kingston to Taroona, with panoramic vistas. Kingston is a fifteen minute drive from Hobart.

We parked in Balmoral Street, near the pedestrian bridge over Browns River, to walk to the Shot Tower at Taroona, an eight kilometre round trip. The track starts at Tyndall Beach (the dog walking beach). The start of the track, at the base of the cliffs, is clearly marked. The walk is classified as moderately difficult. Walkers are advised to not approach cliff edges and closely supervise children. Some of the cliffs are up to thirty metres above sea level.

The beginning of the Alum Cliffs Track is a steady climb through coastal blue gum forest and tall silver banksia. The undu-

lating path winds through dry bushland with slender peppermint gums, passing into picturesque fern filled gullies. Several headlands have seats at lookout points that afford sweeping views across Storm Bay and the Derwent Estuary, including Bruny Island.

The final stage of the walk to the Shot Tower is via a steep gully. There are approximately five hundred steps that descend then ascend to the historic sandstone tower. Built in the 1870s, the Shot Tower is 58 metres high. An internal circular staircase of 259 steps takes visitors to the top of the tower where 360degree views reward the climb. However, we chose to relax in the garden below the heritage tower, under a shady oak tre

We returned to Kingston on the same track, enjoying the opportunity to see the spectacular views from a different perspective.

High cliffs

Alum Cliffs track

Lookout view

THE CURIOUS INCIDENT OF THE TASMANIANVICTORIAN LAND BORDER

As Tasmanians, we take great pride in being an island set apart from mainland Australia. Well, we’re here to shatter those illusions. We might be an island, but we’re not as far from the mainland as you think. Tasmania has a land border…with Victoria! *cue the gasps, screams, and dramatic fainting*

Yes, you read that correctly. This little-known land border is in the Bass Strait on a small group of islands known as the Hogan Group, located 40 kilometres southeast of Wilsons Promontory. That’s Victoria’s southernmost point. It becomes very important later, so remember it! These islands are sometimes visited by kayakers and boaters, although it’s fur seals, penguins, seabirds, and lizards that call the islands home.

To give you a sense of just how isolated these islands are, the largest, Hogan Island, contains only a cattle yard and an automatic light. No buildings in sight. The Tasmania-Victoria land border itself lies on one of the smallest islands in the group, Boundary Islet. At just 85 metres long it’s basically a rock rising out of the sea, but with legal implications.

The islands were named and surveyed by Captain John Black in 1801, during his voyage aboard Harbinger. Black, an English seafarer, is best known for surviving a mutiny in 1797. Following the mutiny, Black and several crew members were cast adrift in a small boat, left to find their way to the nearest land, being Brazil.

Then, after numerous adventures involving stormy seas, whaling, privateering, and falling in love with a convict, Black eventually became captain of the Harbinger in 1800 at the age of 21. He was tasked with taking a shortcut through the newly discovered Bass Strait on his way to Sydney. Along the way, he surveyed several islands. He even gave King Island its name. The Hogan Group was named after the ship’s owner, Michael Hogan, while Boundary Islet was simply called North East Islet. Its suspiciously border-like name was a title it earned later.

A major source (aka Wikipedia) says that Black’s survey was faulty, leading to the Tasmania-Victoria land border. But you can’t trust Wikipedia! The problem wasn’t Boundary Islet’s position, it was Wilsons Promontory’s (remember it?).

Back in the day, Tasmania was a part of the New South Wales colony. In 1825, it became a separate colony, and with that came borders. Those imaginary lines that separate territories, inspiring all manner of wars and conflicts, shaping the world as we know it today. In the case of Tassie, it was decided that we would claim all the islands of the Bass Strait, while New South Wales would have the southern corner of the mainland. The dividing line was drawn at latitude 39 degrees 12 minutes, based on the position of Wilsons Promontory.

Victoria didn’t become its own state until 1851, and when it did, it retained the old maritime boundary. But it was later discovered that Wilsons Promontory had been miscalculated. The agreed-upon border was actually further south than intended, slicing right through North East

Islet, which was renamed Boundary Islet because of this.

A formal boundary change would require a constitutional amendment, but neither government seemed too fussed about this “border dispute.” After all, Boundary Islet is a whopping 85 metres long, making it the shortest land border between any two Australian states or territories.

But hey, next time you’re at a pub quiz, now you might score a point in the geography round. And if Tasmania ever becomes its own country in some strange, dystopian future, I say we lay claim to Boundary Islet by force.

For your enjoyment, here’s a collection of Google reviews for Boundary Islet:

Chris Louloudakis: “Absolute foodies heaven on the Tassie side. Plenty of fresh seafood to delight the senses. Everything was closed on the Victorian side. Would not visit again.”

Izaakk Li: “Penguins are border control on this island, to keep all Taswhat Manians entering into the Holy Lands of the Great State of Victoria.”

Intricate Korbz: “Solid 5/10, nice place but the birds tried to rob me, came back to the mainland on sea turtles.”

Peaceful Shadows: “Got through the border Covid checkpoint ok. Half the rock in lockdown sadly.”

NON-EXY BURBS SET FOR MORE GROWTH

Two of Hobart’s more affordable suburbs are predicted to be among the leaders in home value growth in the city in the next five years, and we could end up with 17 suburbs with a median house price topping $1million. Realeastate.com.au’s research arm has calculated what the median house price of 37 suburbs in greater Hobart might be by 2030 if they continue to grow at their current pace. They found that Dodges Ferry and Rokeby recorded the largest five-year growth change, increasing by 84 and 85 percent. If that trend continues we could see Dodges Ferry move from $685,000 for a typical house to $1.268m and Rokeby would shift from $630,000 to $1.157m. Of the areas looked at, Sandy Bay was the only one with a current median value above $1m, but if the five year growth projection came true, we’d have 17 suburbs join that marker.

...AND RENTS ARE UP TOO

In other real estate news, which will come as no surprise to renters, Hobart has recently recorded the second-highest quarterly growth in the prices of rentals in the country. REA Group’s Market Insight report compared Hobart to Australia's other capital cities to determine this result. Median home rental prices here grew 4.8 percent in the March quarter - now up to $550 per week. Darwin was the lead city in the table, with a growth rate of five percent. This news comes about a month after another REA Group report found that a typical Tasmanian household could only afford one in five properties listed on realestate.com.au. For those in lower income brackets the situation was even more dire: with only one percent of listed homes affordable.

Indicative price: Expressions of Interest – closing midday 6 June Agent: Trudi Jones

THREE SMART MOVES TO GET YOUR HOME READY FOR SPRING SELLING SEASON

Spring is one of the most popular times to sell. A bit of prep now goes a long way as spring hits, so here are our top three tips to get you ready.

1: Do a spring clean…in winter

A spring clean is one of the most important jobs in the whole process. A tidy home feels bigger and shows off the space. Start by clearing out unwanted items. If you're feeling bold, try a Swedish Death Clean (we covered it last month) for the ultimate declutter. Donate or sell what you don’t need. Then it’s all about cleaning: dust the forgotten spots, wipe appliances, and mop the floors. Make the house shine like the star it is.

2: Repairs and maintenance

Now’s the time to sort out those repairs you’ve been putting off. Take a walk through and make a list what needs fixing. Think leaky taps, dodgy switches, scuffed walls, or loose doorknobs. Give the house a fresh coat of paint. Not only will it make your place look its best in years, but it’ll also make it easier to sell.

3: Start gardening

As the weather warms up and everything begins to bloom, spring is the perfect time to show off your outdoor space. Start by raking away dead leaves and giving the garden a thorough prune. Plant flower bulbs now so they’re ready to burst into life come spring. Your garden can make your home feel like a little slice of paradise.

HOW TO GET A BETTER SLEEP, ACCORDING TO A SLEEP SCIENTIST

Good, consistent sleep is essential for health, supporting everything from heart function to memory and mood. Yet many struggle to sleep well. Nearly half of Australian adults report sleep issues, according to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare. We reached out to Samantha Bramich, a sleep scientist at Launceston General Hospital, to discover her tips for improving sleep.

Sam has always been fascinated by the brain. When she completed her bachelor’s degree in psychology, she fell into a role as a sleep technician on the north west coast where she learnt all about sleep studies, which fuelled her interest in sleep and its impact on health. But what does a sleep scientist do? At the Launceston General Hospital, Sam performs sleep studies for children. “This involves attaching many electrodes to their head and body to monitor their brain waves, breathing, and body movement overnight, in order to detect sleep disorders,” she says.

Needless to say, all of this makes Sam the ideal person to ask about this topic. Poor sleep, either short sleep or broken sleep, for a long period of time can have a big impact on health. This can include increased irritability, memory trouble and mood disturbance, but Sam says poor sleep has also been associated with the development of many diseases such as

diabetes, heart diseases and dementia. “Prioritising sleep at any stage of life can drastically increase overall health and well-being,” she says.

When it comes to improving our sleep quality, Sam says there are many things that can be done. “Stick to a daily sleep schedule and bedtime routine, maximise light exposure in the morning and minimise this in the evening, and get plenty of exercise throughout the day, but not too late into the evening,” she says.

People can also alter the design elements of their bedroom to aid good quality sleep, and for this Sam provides a helpful checklist:

Control Light: Use blackout curtains or shades to block out external light. Consider dimmable lights or lamps with warm bulbs to create a cosy ambiance in the evening.

Reduce Noise: Soundproof your room as much as possible. Use heavy curtains, rugs, and even white noise machines to minimise disruptive sounds.

Keep It Cool: Maintain a cool room temperature, ideally around 19°C. This helps your body regulate its temperature for better sleep.

Declutter: A clutter-free space can reduce stress and promote relaxation. Keep your bedroom tidy and free of unnecessary items.

Comfortable Bedding: Invest in a good-quality mattress and pillows that support your sleeping position (many are available specific to side/back/front sleepers).

Limit Electronics: Keep electronic devices like TVs, computers, and smartphones out of the bedroom. The blue light and brain excitement from screens can interfere with your sleep cycle.

If Sam could wish more people knew one thing about sleep, it’ll be that it’s incredibly individual. “Although the general rule of thumb is to achieve between seven to nine hours of sleep each night, this does vary,” she says. “Some people do not need as much as others, and the best way to know if you are getting enough sleep, is whether you feel refreshed upon waking.”

She also says it’s perfectly normal to wake up during the night, especially as we get older. “Very rarely do we sleep all the way through without at least one awakening, whether that be due to things like sound, pain, or to use the bathroom,” Sam says.

Currently, Sam is deep into her PhD, which is focused on a sleep disorder called isolated REM sleep behaviour disorder, or iRBD. People with this disorder “act out their dreams” during REM sleep. Symptoms range from talking or laughing to more dangerous actions like kicking or even falling out of bed. It’s linked to neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson’s and dementia with Lewy bodies, making it crucial for early detection. “So here in Tasmania we are researching the prevalence of iRBD (through home-based sleep studies) along with other characteristics that people with iRBD have that might help us to better understand why people go on to develop other diseases in later life.” She also wants to assist in developing treatments to delay or even prevent this progression. This study is the first ever estimate of iRBD prevalence in Tasmania (and in Australia), contributing to the worldwide body of iRBD knowledge.

Sleep is uniquely personal, and there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. Whether it’s adjusting bedtime routines or tailoring bedroom conditions, small changes can lead to significant improvements. Sam’s work highlights how paying attention to sleep quality can help us understand our health.

THE TASSIE BOOK CLUB

The Woman Booker Prize Club is a local Hobart book club. Here they share their thoughts on books by Tasmanian authors, set in Tasmania, or about Tassie topics. Over to the club!

Whoops, we’re a bit late for Mother’s Day but both novels reviewed here this month would be perfect gifts to show gratitude for the mother figures in your life (but not just for mothers, either!).

The Writing Class by Esther Campion (Hachette, November 2024) Review by Melanie Ross

When Vivian is abandoned by her husband of thirty years during an interstate trip, she drags herself home to Devonport to lick her wounds. Freshly retired from her teaching career, she withdraws into herself and avoids meeting anyone she knows. When a dreaded chance encounter with an old colleague yields an invitation to teach a short adult literacy course at the local library, Vivian begrudgingly accepts.

This gentle novel full of human stories is based on author Esther Campion’s real

life experiences, adventures which have led her to living on the north west coast of Tasmania too. In the book, we meet a lovely cast of characters: Oscar, a middle-aged man with literacy struggles and long covid; Sienna, a young mum trying desperately to outrun an abusive partner; and Marilyn, an older woman with her own marital problems who dreams of heading back to the mainland with her best friend.

This is a wonderfully comforting book, filled with real details of Devonport and surrounds, and a celebration of teaching, learning and community. Showing what can happen when you take a chance and help others - and let them help you in return - it’s a real antidote to many contemporary world events. It’s also a redemption story for Vivian and her family; learning that things can be different and still be good.

Half Truth by Nadia Mahjouri (Penguin Random House, Feb 2025) Review by Kathryn Montgomery

Half Truth is the deeply moving debut novel from Hobart writer, Nadia Mahjouri. Based on her own life experience, she explores motherhood, cultural identity and finding a sense of belonging.

We start at the edge of Bruny Island, with Zahra, a new mother. While Zahra is seeking information about her Moroccan father, Khadija, her grandmother in Morocco is holding onto hope for her son that disappeared over 20 years ago. Their stories collide when Zahra travels to Morocco with her baby looking for answers. Across different timelines, both struggle with a sense of belonging in Marrakech and their transition to motherhood.

Mahjouri is a skilled writer. I felt like I was immersed in Morocco, exploring the bazaar and hamams alongside Zahra. It was also a wonderful experience for me, learning about Moroccan culture. She has blended a heartbreaking and beautiful story with rich history, resulting in an impressive read that will transport you.

I absolutely loved this book. It is as colourful as the title and I just wish it was longer. I was excited to read that Mahjouri is already working on her second novel: a talented author and we can’t wait to see what she writes about next!

Book Chatter

Robbie Arnott has done it again! After winning Book of the Year for Dusk at the Indie Book Awards in March, he also took out Literary Fiction Book of the Year at the 2025 Australian Book Awards last month.

Other local authors, and illustrators, may wish to apply for the 2025 Tasmanian Writers and Illustrators Mentorship Program. Applications close on 13 June.

And, did you know Libraries Tasmania aren’t just about books? They have free seed libraries at the following locations: Bridgewater, Burnie, Cygnet, Devonport, Exeter, George Town and Westbury. Collect or donate some seeds next time you’re checking out one of the library’s gardening books! Also, keep an eye out for seed, plant and cutting swap events at your local library (the next one is 5 June at Glenorchy).

Keen to chat books with us?

Find us on Instagram @thewomanbookerprizeclub or email thewbpc@gmail.com

Climate change: empower yourself

Understand the science with a free online course

Learn more about climate change and discover how you can make a difference, with our free course, The Climate Shift: Exploring Science, Empowering Action.

This science-based course is entirely online, and can be completed at your own pace, with no time limit.

Focusing on practical ways to make smarter climate choices, this course will help you make a positive impact on your home, your community, and the environment.

Scan here to learn more, or visit utas.edu.au/climate-mooc

ZODIAC CHECK-IN: YOUR MONTHLY

ASTRO UPDATE

Words: Sara Hewitt

Aries (21 Mar - 19 Apr): Venus lights up your finances from the 6th, encouraging treats and well-earned indulgences. The Full Moon in Sagittarius on the 11th pushes you to release outdated beliefs or revise travel plans. Set fresh intentions on the 25th, as the New Moon reboots your inner world.

Taurus (20 Apr - 20 May): Venus enters your sign on the 6th, enhancing your natural magnetism - expect some admirers! Mars powers up your creative energy after the 17th, helping you act on personal passions. The New Moon in Cancer on the 25th urges you to initiate heartfelt conversations.

Gemini (21 May - 20 Jun): Venus brings softness to your inner life from the 6th - quiet moments feel more meaningful. Mars enters Virgo on the 17th, focusing energy on your home and family - perfect for reconnecting. By the New Moon in Cancer on the 25th, you’re ready to plant seeds for greater stability and emotional security in your material world.

Cancer (21 Jun - 22 Jul): Venus adds warmth to friendships from the 6th; joyful social moments flourish. Mars brings a sharp edge to your voice after the 17th, so choose your words wisely. The New Moon on the 25th lands in your sign, offering a clean slate. Set intentions for personal growth, clarity, and courageous beginnings.

Leo (23 Jul - 22 Aug): Venus boosts your career presence from the 6th - charm can open doors now. Let the Full Moon in Sagittarius on the 11th help you release creative pressure or old expectations. The New Moon in Cancer on the 25th is ideal for healing from the inside out - set intentions for solitude, dreamwork, and taking gentle care of your emotional world.

Virgo (23 Aug - 22 Sep): Venus in Taurus from the 6th sweetens your outlook and draws in inspiring ideas. The Full Moon in Sagittarius on the 11th asks you to release something emotional around home or family. On the 25th, the New Moon in Cancer offers a fresh start in friendshipnurture meaningful connections that align with your vision.

Libra (23 Sep - 22 Oct): Let go of old communication habits or mental clutter as the Full Moon in Sagittarius peaks on the 11th. Mars energises your inner world from the 17th – your motivation builds behind the scenes. The New Moon in Cancer on the 25th is ideal for setting career goals or reimagining your public image.

Scorpio (23 Oct - 21 Nov): Venus makes relationships richer from the 6th - expect harmony or romantic renewal. Mars in Virgo from the 17th activates your social goals, so take action on friendship dreams. The New Moon in Cancer on the 25th brings fresh energy to spiritual learning, adventures, or a new journey you’re ready to begin.

Sagittarius (22 Nov - 21 Dec): Venus brings peace to your daily life from the 6th; your routine becomes more enjoyable. Mars charges up your career from the 17th; ambition rises but be careful

about burnout. Set intentions on the 25th with the New Moon in Cancer - perfect for redefining shared commitments a

Capricorn (22 Dec - 19 Jan): Venus in Taurus from the 6th inspires joy as your creative and romantic energy gets a welcome lift. Jupiter expands relationship harmony starting on the 10th. The Full Moon in Sagittarius on the 11th urges emotional release - let go of what you’ve been carrying alone. The New Moon in Cancer on the 25th encourages new intentions in love, contracts, or one-on-one connections.

Aquarius (20 Jan - 18 Feb): Venus in Taurus from the 6th beautifies your home and brings comfort to your inner circle. Mars in Virgo from the 17th pushes you to resolve shared financial or emotional matters with focus. The New Moon in Cancer on the 25th helps you set better boundaries around self-care.

Pisces (19 Feb - 20 Mar): Venus sweetens your words from the 6th making conversations turn tender and your creativity flows. Jupiter enters Cancer on the 10th, sparking joy, romance, and artistic inspiration. Mars in Virgo from the 17th heats up your relationships; passion and teamwork thrive with effort. The New Moon in Cancer on the 25th offers a blank page - perfect for starting fresh. Embrace delight!

Sara is a Hobart based astrologer with over 30 years professional experience. If you would like a private psychic or astrology reading with Sara either face to face or by zoom, phone or email, please go to www.stargold.com.au for more information and to book.

WARATAH AND THE EARLY YEARS OF FM ALEXANDER

Words: Kate Jenkins

Frederick Matthias Alexander is internationally known as the founder of the Alexander Technique. That he was born in the hamlet of Alexandria and grew up in Wynyard still comes as a surprise to some people, and the plaque on Table Cape naming him as ‘one of the 200 people who made Australia great’ is easy to miss.

However, it was people and experiences in Wynyard and Waratah that made him who he was, and although he spent only four years in Waratah, it was there he made the transition from a boy of sixteen to a young man of twenty. His job in Waratah as a bookkeeper and accountant-in-training was not an obvious fit for his dream of a career on the stage, but while researching in old newspapers for my novel on Alexander, the Waratah of 1886-1890 had quite a few surprises.

Destination Waratah

The marvels of the tin mining operation and the lively town that was established around it attracted a steady stream of sightseers to Waratah.

Fortunately for our understanding of the history of the day, quite a few ‘occasional correspondents’ wrote detailed, chatty reports of their travels. Through these articles, the town of Waratah comes alive as a place of movement and noise generated by ‘giant’ machinery that was in constant movement day and night. A small railway ran from the workings on Mt Bischoff to the battery sheds across the road from where Fred Alexander lived in his uncle’s hotel. The visitors would stand on the outside rail and hold tight as the train rattled its way up to the workings on the mountain, ‘ladies as well as gentlemen’.

In July 1886 Waratah was described by a sightseeing visitor as ‘bristling with activity and business excitement.

Here are to be found a town hall, public library, bank, hotels, butchers, bakers, drapers, grocers, barbers, photographers, chemist, booksellers, and all the trades and professions which go to make up a modern town.’

Waratah – dance the night away

As well as numerous dramatic and musical performances, balls and dances were the order of the day. Here’s a snippet from the Launceston Examiner about a ball held on Monday 20 June 1887: ‘the ball was a great success, and was thoroughly enjoyed by nearly seventy couples. The dancing was kept up with great spirit till half-past five o’clock.’

Joining a skating craze, by 1888 there were no fewer than three roller skating rinks in Waratah, and on some occasions skating and a ball were combined, as in the celebration of a local club in 1887. It commenced with a skating parade to the music of a brass band, ‘the ladies and gentlemen being attired in ball costumes.’

After a couple of hours there was a tug of war on skates, then ‘at half-past nine the floor was cleared of skates and dancing commenced which was kept up till the small hours of the morning.’

A first for Waratah

Historical facts are notoriously slippery, and it’s often mistakenly reported that, in 1888, Tamworth in NSW was the first town to use electricity. However, electricity was already in extensive use in Waratah as early as 1885. This report from HWF Kayser, the Mt Bischoff mine manager, appeared in the Launceston Examiner on 30 January of that year:

‘Electric light – After a great many trials and unpleasantness, all the Waratah sheds, workshop, store, and office are supplied with lamps, with the very best results.’

The mine manager’s own house was also lit by electricity. When one considers that electrically generated street lighting was first used in Paris in 1877, it is astounding to think the new technology had made it to Waratah a mere eight years later.

Out of the Ordinary

This novel recreates the early life of FM Alexander, founder of the Alexander Technique. Beginning in 1879 it explores the people, places and events that shaped his development from a troublesome school boy to the man of twenty-six who discovered the connection between body posture and health. It follows Fred Alexander from his school days in Wynyard, to his time working for a mining company in Waratah, his move to Melbourne and a triumphant visit to Hobart in his mid-twenties. All the characters and events in the book are anchored in historical records and the novel offers a fresh look at FM Alexander, providing new insights into the key influences on his early life and the development of his technique.

Out of the Ordinary is available online, as an e-book, and in Dymocks Hobart, Fullers Bookshop, Hobart Bookshop, State Bookstore, Black Swan Bookshop in New Norfolk and through the State Library.