The Hobart / Launceston Magazine May 2025

THE HOBART/LAUNCESTON MAGAZINE / MAY 2025: ISSUE 70

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INDEPENDENT + LOCAL

HOLY HOLY

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Celebrating 7 years and 70 editions WWW.THEHOBARTMAGAZINE.COM.AU

Tassie Community News + Events

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LAUNCESTON'S TIM CARROLL TAKES A BOW

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LEADING WITH PURPOSE: STEPHANIE MIROWSKI’S DEDICATION TO RIDERS OF ALL ABILITIES

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The sandstone residence is an architectural masterpiece, perfectly positioned to capture commanding views over the farm & Coal River Valley.

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WELCOME TO THE HOBART/LAUNCESTON MAGAZINE The number seven is a thing. Seven Wonders of the World, Seven Deadly Sins, Seven Virtues, a seven-day week, seven continents… and now, The Hobart / Launceston Magazine’s seventh birthday. Yep, that’s right! This edition is extra special for us. It marks both our seventh year and our 70th edition.

Where did the time go? We can’t thank you enough for reading and supporting us over these years.

To help us celebrate, we caught up with a bunch of our past cover people to see what they’ve been up to, and to ask which of the Seven Deadly Sins they most relate to. For us? Maybe pride (we’re pretty proud of hitting seven years), or gluttony (there will be birthday cake).

We also had the pleasure of chatting with Launceston local Tim Carroll, one half of the Holy Holy duo, just before the band heads off on hiatus and a national tour. With pages stacked with community news, fascinating local people, fun events, and informative features, we hope this edition gives you something to enjoy over a tea or coffee.

As always, we’d love to hear from you! Drop us a line at editor@thehobartmagazine.com.au or tag us on social media as you explore Tasmania.

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: Holy Holy by Michelle Grace Hunder 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 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

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Local is the New Luxe Smitten Merino, a Tasmanian merino clothing brand co-founded

by Nicola and Carl Mason in 2007, began as an online venture but quickly evolved into a storefront after customer demand for tactile experiences became evident. The brand is known for its luxurious, soft superfine wool clothing made from Australian sheep, hand sewn in Tasmania. Nic, who designs all the pieces, draws inspiration from her past, her grandmother’s style, and current fashion trends. Her daughter, Holly, also contributes creatively, while Carl handles marketing and operations.

Smitten Merino emphasises family involvement, and a small retail and customer care team, fostering a close-knit business culture. The Masons prioritise ethical practices, choosing a Victorian factory to knit their lightweight merino fabric that aligns with their environmental values. Smitten is then carefully hand cut and sewn in a northern Tasmanian factory.

Despite its growing presence, the Masons aim to enhance Tasmania’s wool processing capabilities, intending to keep manufacturing local. Ultimately, Smitten Merino embodies a deep passion for merino wool, resonating with customers who appreciate quality and personal connection.

Phone: 03 6212 0197 Free Shipping Australia Wide Flagship Boutique 47 Sandy Bay Rd | Battery Point www.smittenmerino.com Holly wears the Ivory Ponte Dressing Gown made from 100% merino

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LOCAL PEOPLE

STEPHANIE MIROWSKI Stephanie is board chair of the Riding for the Disabled Association of Tasmania (RDA Tasmania), a voluntary organisation that enables people with disabilities to enjoy horse-related activities. This year, RDA Tasmania celebrates its 50th anniversary.

Where did you grow up and where do you live now? Born and raised in Tasmania, I spent most of my life in the south of the state before recently moving north.

Tell us about the Riding for the Disabled Association of Tasmania and your role within it. As chair of the board at RDA Tasmania, I’m proud to be part of an organisation that makes a real difference. We’re a volunteer-driven, not-for-profit that provides horse-riding programs for people with disabilities.

Our centre in Glenorchy runs entirely on the dedication of our volunteers, offering safe and enriching horse-related activities for people of all ages.

How long have you been with RDA Tasmania, and what drew you to join?

My journey began in November 2023 as vice-chair, and I stepped into the role of chair in September 2024.

My communications and project management background, particularly my time with the Office of the AntiDiscrimination Commissioner Tasmania, gave me a deep appreciation for sharing people’s stories. This organisation was one of those stories – work that naturally led me back to RDA Tasmania.

What benefits do people with disabilities experience when working with horses? Our nationally accredited coaches design programs that go far beyond simple horseback riding. Each session is carefully crafted to build confidence, foster independence, and create a sense of achievement. The value of working with horses is remarkable – it’s a unique combination of physical activity, emotional connection, and personal growth.

What’s one thing about RDA Tasmania you wish more people knew?

The transformative power of horse riding.

The benefits extend far beyond the physical aspects – building confidence, creating connections, and opening new possibilities for our riders.

RDA Tasmania turns 50 this year – how are you marking this milestone?

We’re planning a series of celebrations to honour this remarkable achievement.

There will be a commemorative dinner, a special function at Government House, and open houses. It’s our chance to celebrate and thank the countless donors and volunteers who’ve kept RDA Tasmania thriving for half a century.

Who do you admire? Winston Churchill.

Favourite podcast or TV show?

I’m always up for a good murder.

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Secret vice? A good, full-bodied glass of deep red wine.

What are you reading right now?

Another Linda La Plante novel.

Do you have any pets? A cat named Charlie.

What was your first job? Receptionist at the Office of the Anti-Discrimination Commissioner.

What are your daily news/social media habits? The BBC. Your favourite place for...

Breakfast: Somewhere peaceful.

Lunch: A quiet corner.

Dinner: Any tranquil setting.

Dream holiday destination? I visited South America, in particular Buenos Aires, in 2007 and again in 2014. Since then, I’ve made several European trips, exploring sights and visiting family. My mother is Croatian, and my father is Polish/Ukrainian. Going back to South America has been an ambition.

Favourite Tasmanian secret? It’s still a secret in some parts of the world.

Parting words? Leadership and volunteering make all the difference. Individuals’ commitment to step up and serve their communities creates positive change that ripples far beyond what we can see.

LOCAL PEOPLE

DES GRAY With a lifelong passion for prospecting, Des Gray creates unique, handcrafted jewellery from sapphires and gemstones he finds in the rivers of north east Tasmania. He proudly presents his work at Salamanca Market.

Where did you grow up and where do you live now? I grew up in Melbourne. I had a career as a Chemical Engineer so I moved around Australia a few times and even to Africa for seven years. There are only two places I have ever visited that I would have wanted to live permanently, Swakopmund in Namibia and the north east of Tasmania. So when the opportunity to move here came I jumped.

What interests you about gemstones and prospecting, and how did those passions develop? When I was five my parents cut a new road in on our farm near Buxton, Victoria. It intersected a quartz vein and I spent my weekends picking out the crystals. From that point I have been hooked, my love for gems is the one singular thread that ties my life together, influencing a myriad of small decisions that have led me to this point. I suspect it is a combination of their beauty, the addictive variable reward dynamic when prospecting and my natural tendency to collect things.

What makes the north east region such a great place for gemstones?

North east Tasmania has Australia’s best blue sapphires. They are often a very pure, bright royal or cornflower blue whilst mainland sapphires tend to be darker. And when you are a lover of gems, colour is the most important thing. It also helps that the rivers that they are found in here are stunningly scenic.

Walk us through your process for creating jewellery. I have aphantasia, so I have to design in concepts rather than images. The details come out in the process. This means I am not good at a lot of designs other jewellers may do but that my work tends to be unique. I need a low stimulation environment to design.

I only design on overcast or rainy days and designing is far easier in winter. At some point I am just ready – I select a finished gem from my collection and start to design with paper and pencil. From concept the gem gets 3D scanned and I make up the design in Zbrush. I outsource the casting of the piece but do all of the finishing and gem setting in my studio.

What is your favourite part of the process? The reactions I get at my Salamanca stall when people see my work in person. The slight gasp or the widening of the eyes say more than words ever could. My customers are invariably far more stylish than I and I am proud to have them. I am grasping at immortality through my work. I strive to create work that will outlive me and be handed down and appreciated through lives yet to come.

Where can people find you and your products? Preferably in person where I can be found at Salamanca Market stall 305, alternately online at www. desgray.com.au and my instagram (@flaws_and_facets).

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Who do you admire? Scientists – the creation of original testable hypotheses of how the world works is the pinnacle of creativity in my opinion.

Favourite podcast or TV show?

Podcast – Modern Wisdom.

Secret vice? Nutella, eaten by the spoonful.

What are you reading right now? Malazan Book of the Fallen – Steven Erikson.

Do you have any pets? No, but I have 12 beehives.

What was your first job? Machine press operator at a trailer manufacturer. My first week was a 64 hour week as a 15 year old, it was a real wake up.

What are your daily news/social media habits? I randomly check X, Facebook and Instagram.

Your favourite place for...

Breakfast: Home.

Lunch: The Hub in Derby.

Dinner: Should be cooked on the campfire where possible.

Dream holiday destination? What are holidays? Right now I am focused on my making and the concept of holidays honestly seems foreign to me. I tend to be fairly singular.

Favourite Tasmanian secret? The world class colour of our best blue sapphires.

Parting words? All of the value in an idea is in the execution. Never let people on the sidelines with their own ideas stop you from taking action on your own.

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.

BITS + PIECES

NEW NEW NEW Hobart chef Luke Burgess, who lit the Hobart scene on fire with Garagistes, has opened a new restaurant, Scholé (227 Liverpool Street, Hobart). This exclusive venue sits just ten people on a single table and has a small, evolving menu. Every Tuesday night, the restaurant becomes a Japanese Tachinomi-style standing bar, no reservations needed. This could be the next hottest seat in town. Another hot seat has opened in the ex-Dana Eating House space. Lost in Asia (131-133 Murray Street, Hobart) is from the Bar Wa team, and is casual dining and a bar packed with flavour and fun. Burger N Beyond (135 Bathurst Street, Hobart) is the latest burger joint to hit the city.

A casual dining spot for burgers, loaded fries, and crispy chicken complete with pool tables and a kid’s play area.

Coming soon is Hom-Mali Hobart (85a Harrington Street, Hobart), which proudly describes itself as the space where Bangkok meets Hobart. Penny’s Bakery Glenorchy (387-393 Main Road, Glenorchy) is coming soon to Northgate Shopping Centre, between Coles and KFC. A traditional bakery franchise with baked treats, toasted sandwiches and coffee. Food truck The Fish Finger (Menin Drive, Brighton) opened in Brighton recently, serving 10

fresh-cooked fish and chips. Check out their Facebook page to find out where they’re headed. From a Salamanca Market stall to a dream space in the heart of Hobart, Francesca Jewellery Hobart (Cat & Fiddle Arcade, Shop 6A/51 Murray Street, Hobart) has reopened after a major reno. Featuring gorgeous jewellery pieces in gold, rose gold and silver, the store also has close ties to Australian charities, having donated around $1.1 million to various causes over the years. In a great get for anyone craving some Takis (or a bottle of water) during an evening in town, there’s a brand new Salamanca Convenience Store (6 Salamanca Square, Battery Point). Park Art Co-op (2 Payeena Street, Dodges Ferry) is a new creative hub behind Park Beach Cafe, featuring handmade goods from local artisans. Find unique items like mosaics, children’s clothing, art, jewellery, candles, dog biscuits, woodcraft, cakes and more.

PLASTIC POLLUTION IN AUSTRALIA FALLS 39%, BUT HOBART RISES Plastic pollution along Australian coastlines has decreased by 39% over the last decade, though Hobart saw an increase, according to research by CSIRO. Researchers surveyed inland, riverine, and coastal habitats across six metropolitan regions across Australia including Hobart, Newcastle, Perth, Port Augusta, Sunshine Coast, and Alice Springs. While decreases were observed in most of those places, which is fantastic news, Hobart and Port Augusta saw increases.

Hobart was also found to have the highest occurrence of fragment and whole beverage bottles compared to all other cities. At the time of the study Hobart did not have a container deposit scheme. The study links Hobart’s poor results with local recycling policies, saying it provides additional evidence that effective policies, such as container deposit legislation, can help to reduce plastic in the environment.

Good news, then, that Hobart’s first container refund machine launched on 1 May in Bridgewater.

A total of 8383 debris items were recorded across 1907 surveys within a 100 kilometre radius of each city. Dr Denise Hardesty, Senior Research Scientist from CSIRO, said, “Although there are still areas for concern, it's exciting to see a significant decrease in plastic pollution as people around the country are becoming more aware of the harmful effects of plastic waste on people, communities and wildlife.” The paper, Drivers of environmental debris in metropolitan areas: a continental scale assessment, compares data from surveys conducted a decade ago and builds upon previous work that showed a 29% reduction in plastic waste across all of Australia.

WARM FEET, WARM RETREAT Warm up in modern, self-contained apartments at The Old Woolstore Apartment Hotel in Hobart.

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BITS + PIECES

THUMBS UP Soups, stews, and slow cooks.

Listening to a band you liked a long time ago and discovering you still like them.

Scoring the last item on the shelf during a sale.

Rediscovering the winter part of your wardrobe.

A thermos of hot tea or coffee on the sidelines at kid’s sports games.

Reading nooks.

Cocopops and ice cold milk.

THUMBS DOWN Getting ready for work in the morning and your hair is not doing what you want it to.

Oh darn! Holes in socks.

The older you get, the more of a pain it becomes to select your date of birth out of a drop down menu.

Scrolling is making us feel old!

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ONE PAW CLOSER TO PETS IN TASSIE RENTALS The rental market in Tasmania is tough and pets can add to renting woes. The Residential Tenancy Amendment Bill 2024, which will ease rental rules surrounding pets and bring us in line with other states in Australia, has passed the House of Assembly. According to the RSPCA's Tasmanian Housing Strategy report, 66% of Tasmanians own a pet, yet only one in eight landlords allow them.

The report also says many pet owners feel compelled to lie about their pets just to apply for rentals. The combination of low vacancy rates and rapidly increasing rents is forcing many low-income earners with pets out of the market. As a result, more people are being faced with a difficult decision: keep their best friend or find somewhere to live. The report further argues that Tasmania’s rental laws regarding pets are outdated in light of research showing that pets contribute positively to mental health and even the development of children. As for solutions, the RSPCA suggests that rather than excluding pet owners, landlords’ concerns should be addressed through lease conditions. This could include requirements such as a mandatory cleaning schedule or additional damage bonds.

SHELL YEAH! NEW SCALLOP RULES A FEAST With the start of the scallop recreational fishing season in April, Tasmania has introduced new regulations allowing scallop catch sharing. This reform is part of several amendments to the Tasmanian Scallop Management Plan, aimed at ensuring the benefits of scallop fishing are more widely accessible to Tasmanians. Under the new rules, licensed scallop fishers who have dived will be able to share their catch with one another, as well as with up to one licence holder who remained on the boat and did not dive. Also, a boat limit of 250 scallops has been introduced, which is the maximum number of scallops a boat can possess in a single day. The recreational fishing season for scallops closes on 31 July.

KEEPING TASMANIANS OUT OF HOSPITALS Salveo Healthcare, a private not-for-profit organisation which aims to keep Tasmanians out of hospital, has launched a new headquarters in Launceston’s St.Lukes Health building. This new space will enable them to support more Tasmanians through health programs that empower people to take control of their health. By providing hospital-like services directly to homes, Salveo helps alleviate the strain on hospitals. In other Salveo news, their new Falls Prevention Program has secured funding from the state government.

Designed to reduce hospitalisations due to falls among older Tasmanians in the north west, the program focuses on movement, strength, and social connection. It will be delivered by Healthy Business, a team known for their expertise in community-based exercise initiatives. People can access Salveo Healthcare through their website www.salveohealth.com.au or by calling 1300 313 375.

BITS + PIECES

ROAD SAFETY MEETS FUN AT LAUNCESTON'S BIKE CENTRE After multiple years of redevelopment, the Road Safety Centre, or ‘Bike Centre’ as it’s known, has reopened in Launceston. This transport-themed children’s play centre is a popular spot for birthday parties, family gatherings, and community events, offering a fun and educational way to teach road safety. Kids can ride bikes, scooters, skateboards, or rollerblades on a model road system complete with traffic lights, stop signs, pedestrian crossings, and more. Located at 45-67 Lawrence Vale Road, inside a historic water reservoir, the centre has been a local favourite since it first opened in 1980. After a closure in 2019 due to structural issues, the centre is back, welcoming families once again. Bookings are available online via the City of Launceston’s website, with two daily sessions offered at $35 per session. The fully-fenced area includes picnic spots, barbecues, toilets, and parking.

LITERARY LEGENDS TO STREAM IN A LIBRARY NEAR YOU From 22–25 May, some of the world’s biggest literary names will be livestreamed for free to Hobart’s State Library and Archives of Tasmania, as well as other libraries across the state. As part of the Sydney Writers’ Festival 2025, the Live & Local program will bring over 20 headline sessions directly to Tasmanians. Featured authors include Jeff Kinney (Diary of a Wimpy Kid), 2024 Booker Prize winner Samantha Harvey, crime writer Ian Rankin, and celebrated storytellers like Helen Garner, Colm Tóibín, and the Moriarty sisters. To see the full program and find out which libraries are taking part, visit www.swf.org.au/program/live-local.

ONE IN FOUR WAND SEARCHES FINDS WEAPONS The police trial of non-invasive searches using hand-held metal detection wands has officially concluded. During the fourmonth trial period, officers conducted 213 searches across the state, leading to the seizure of 54 weapons, 42 of which were knives. This means that about one in four searches uncovered a weapon.

The use of the hand-held wands is part of Reid’s Law, which, if passed, would grant police greater search powers.

HIGH LEVELS OF KIDS’ ASTHMA IN TASMANIA There are high levels of asthma clusters among children in Tasmania. A study from the University of New South Wales has identified that areas in the south east, north east, west and north west of Tasmania all have kids’ asthma clusters. A cluster is a group of neighbouring areas where the proportion of children up to 14 years of age with asthma, called childhood asthma prevalence, is higher than the national average of 6.3%. In the south east, the clusters are Triabunna - Bicheno (10.93%), Derwent Valley (9.19%), Southern Midlands (8.51%) and Forestier - Tasman (8.30%). In the north east, the clusters are Waverley - St Leonards (11.8%); Ravenswood (11.6%); George Town (10.5%) and Newnham - Mayfield (10.1%). In the west and north west, the clusters are Acton - Upper Burnie (13.76%); East Devonport (12.80%); Wynyard (11.65%) and West Ulverstone (11.21%). In the wake of these findings, Asthma Australia is urging all political parties to prioritise the health of children in these areas by supporting the Healthy Futures for Kids with Asthma program, which aims to reduce hospital admissions for children with asthma and improve their quality of life. Managing a child’s asthma can be a huge financial strain on families, with the cost of doctor visits, medicines, and time off work adding up. Asthma is the costliest respiratory disease for primary healthcare with costs rising 42% from 2018-19 to 2022-23, while the overall cost of treating and managing asthma increased by 50% from $799 million to $1.2 billion.

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LOGGING THREATENS SWIFT PARROTS. ABOUT 500 LEFT, ACCORDING TO STUDY A recent study from the Australian National University (ANU) reveals that the population of swift parrots in the wild is likely only a few hundred and is declining rapidly. Co-author of the study, Dr Dejan Stojanovic, said having a clear idea of population size is critical. “The swift parrot is critically endangered – our conservation strategies depend on knowing how many birds are still alive in the wild,” he said. “We need this information in order to work out how much time we have left to save them from extinction.”

In this new study, scientists collected one of the largest genetic data sets for any threatened bird in Australia. Co-author Dr George Olah said, "We can now say with confidence the current remaining population size is only about 500 parrots.”

Swift parrots breed in Tasmania, but also migrate to mainland Australia each year looking for food. This nomadic lifestyle makes them hard to count, which is why the researchers have turned to genetic techniques to estimate how many swift parrots are left. “Swift parrots are declining in large part due to logging of their Tasmanian breeding habitat,” Dr Stojanovic said. “Our results add to a mountain of evidence that swift parrots will go extinct unless we urgently change how we manage Tasmanian forests.”

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BITS + PIECES

FOGO FOR STANLEY AND SMITHTON Stanley and Smithton residents will soon have a new way to reduce their environmental footprint with the introduction of the FOGO (Food Organics and Garden Organics) bin service, from September 2025. Residents will receive the green bin in August before commencing in September.

ELECTRIFY YOUR COMMUTE Hobart residents have the opportunity to try an electric bike for free with the launch of a new e-bike library. The program allows locals to borrow an e-bike for up to two weeks, giving a chance to see how it fits into their daily routine.

Since e-bikes can be quite expensive, this initiative provides a great way to test one out before making a purchase. Six different types of e-bikes will be available to suit various needs. The e-bike library is managed by Hobart Bike Hire, a bike shop on the Hobart waterfront. To participate, you must be 18 or older and a Tasmanian resident, with access to a safe and secure place to store the e-bike when not in use. Participation is free, and you can register your interest on the City of Hobart website.

NEW MENTAL HEALTH CENTRE COMING TO DEVONPORT A home has been secured for Devonport’s Medicare Mental Health Centre, a step forward in expanding free mental health support for residents. A lease has been signed for the premises at 11-17 Stewart Street, Devonport and the centre is set to open in July this year. “Now the lease has been signed, we can proceed with the building and fit-out works needed to make the site suitable for its new purpose,” said Primary Health Tasmania general manager Alison O’Neill. Medicare Mental Health Centres provide a welcoming entry point for individuals in crisis or distress, offering immediate, free support with no appointments or Medicare card required.

While the Devonport centre is under construction, people can access telehealth services by calling 1800 595 212 (Monday to Friday, 8:30am-5pm), available to those in Devonport, Burnie, and outer Hobart areas.

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BONORONG’S NEW ERA Big things are happening at Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary. Their teams have officially moved into the new Project RECAP building, which is a purpose-built rehabilitation facility that came from a crowdfunding campaign a few years ago. 2024 was a record-breaking year for Bonorong with more than 18,500 calls for injured or orphaned wildlife. This new facility will help them meet demand. Bonorong expressed thanks to its supporters. “It’s been a huge (but absolutely essential) undertaking, and it simply wouldn’t have been possible without the incredible support of our community. Your generosity helped bring this vision to life,” they said. “The benefits of the improved facilities and equipment are already being felt by both our teams and the wildlife they care for.” That’s not all that Bonorong has been up to, as they wrapped up Wild Rise in early April. This was the second year of the annual fundraising event, which saw the community getting involved in a variety of riding challenges (whether it be bike, skateboard, kayak, or pogo stick) in March. The event raised $41,000, which supports the continued operation of Bonorong's wildlife rescue service, hospital, and rehabilitation facilities.

SCIENTISTS TRACK POPULAR GAMEFISH USING ACOUSTIC TECHNOLOGY For the first time, scientists have successfully tagged Kingfish with acoustic transmitters to study the movements of this popular game fish species, which is increasingly found in Tasmanian waters. Researchers from the University of Tasmania’s Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies (IMAS) have fitted Yellowtail Kingfish with transmitters that will send signals to receivers installed on Fish Aggregation Devices (FADs). Kingfish are prized by recreational fishers across mainland Australia for their good fight and eating qualities. Tasmania is known as an ocean-warming hotspot, particularly along the east coast, and so has seen an increase in the presence of several fish species including Kingfish. FADs are yellow buoys deployed at 13 locations across the state, from Burnie in the northwest to Storm Bay in the south. These devices attract a variety of fish species, including Kingfish. “Because we’re seeing increasing numbers of Kingfish in Tasmania, we’d like to know more about them, including how they are interacting with FADs,” IMAS researcher, Dr Sarah Ugalde said. “The best way to do this is to carefully implant a small acoustic transmitter into the fish which will tell us when they are near a FAD.” The transmitters emit ultrasonic signals, or ‘pings’, every one to two minutes.

When a signal is detected within about 400 metres of an acoustic receiver, the receiver logs the presence of the tagged fish. All FADs in Tasmania are equipped with these receivers, allowing researchers to monitor how long Kingfish spend near individual FADs and track potential movements between FADs along the coast. “This information could tell us more about where Kingfish are going in Tasmanian waters, but also if and when they are returning to mainland waters,” Dr Ugalde said.

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BITS + PIECES

GLOVES ON FOR FOXGLOVES The highly invasive common foxglove has been declared a pest by the Tasmanian government. While foxgloves are pretty and impressive as part of an English cottage garden, they have now spread out of control through vacant blocks and many bush areas. All parts of the plant can also be toxic to humans and animals. The common foxglove (Digitalis purpurea) has now officially been declared a pest under the Tasmanian Biosecurity Act. Minister for Primary Industries and Water, Jane Howlett, said the importation, sale and trade of all reproductive foxglove species, hybrids and cultivars will be prohibited.

The declaration does not include sterile varieties. “The management of foxglove will be targeted to designated areas, including areas within and around the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area and other reserves,” Minister Howlett said. “Existing foxglove plantings in garden settings outside of designated areas are not affected by this declaration.

Eradication of foxglove from all parts of the state is not feasible.”

THE MAUGEAN MISSION The Institute of Marine and Antarctic Studies (IMAS) has launched the Maugean Skate Conservation Action Program, a 12-month program which uses acoustic technology by attaching tiny tracking devices to Maugean skates.

These devices emit signals that can be picked up by dedicated receivers placed throughout Macquarie Harbour, allowing researchers to monitor the skates’ movements. The goal is to gather insights that will help inform more effective conservation strategies. The program will be completed by 30 April 2026.

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CHECK IF YOUR PUBLIC HOSPITAL IS EXPERIENCING LOG JAM The Australian Medical Association (AMA) has launched a hospital logjam finder that tracks how your local hospital is performing. The searchable tool has expanded to cover 352 hospitals across Australia. It uses a traffic light system (green, orange, red) to indicate the percentage of patients that received care within the clinically recommended time.

AMA is using the tool to highlight the grim state of Australia’s public hospital performance, revealing no metropolitan hospitals received a green light for all categories measured by the AMA. Check it out at www.ama.com.au/ clear-the-hospital-logjam.

$1.5 MILLION OF TOBACCO AND VAPING PRODUCTS SEIZED Illicit tobacco and vaping products with an estimated retail value of about $1.5 million were seized during a recent joint operation by the Department of Health.

This follows the Tasmanian government’s Public Health Amendment (Vaping) Bill (2024) which recently received in-principal agreement in the Tasmania Parliament, aimed at protecting the community from the harms of smoking and vaping. The seizure included more than 23,000 packets of cigarettes, close to 5000 vapes and 112 kilograms of loose tobacco. All illicit products seized are destroyed.

LGBTIQA+ INCLUSION SURVEY IN GLENORCHY THIS MONTH Until the end of May, anyone with a connection to the Glenrochy community can respond to the Glenorchy City Council LQBTIQA+ Inclusion Survey. The survey is anonymous and those who complete it will go into a draw to win one of two $100 vouchers from Northgate Shopping Centre. Results will guide work to make Glenorchy a more inclusive place.

Questions will be asked of who you are, your life experience, your experiences in Glenorchy, your ideas for the future of Glenorchy and your experiences with Glenorchy City Council. The survey can be accessed at www.letstalk.gcc.tas.gov.au.

PETER GEE GOES ORANGE FOR MUSCULAR DYSTROPHY Go Orange for MD week is held from 1-8 June and highlights the daily issues faced by people living with Muscular Dystrophy, and how important the safety net that Muscular Dystrophy Tasmania (MDT) provides to Tasmanians right across the state. Patron of MDT Tasmania, Peter Gee, puts his full force behind the cause, saying, “I’m fortunate that my body allows me to do just about anything I want to, but that’s not the case for the one thousand Tasmanians living with Muscular Dystrophy.” Peter said, “I’ve seen the benefits a little help can give for youngsters like Declyn and his family as they took possession of a wheelchair accessible vehicle that my friend Adrian Smith and I helped to fundraise for.”

Declyn can now travel more freely with his family, “It’s changed my life”, said Declyn. To set up your own fundraising event, wear a splash of orange and have a bit of fun, head to www.go-orange. com.au. There’s also a cocktail party and auction at the Madeline Gordon Gallery in Launceston on 4 June you can attend or bid for a donated artwork from renowned Tasmanian artists Michael Weitnauer and Helene Weeding. Donations go directly to people with MD to access the support and therapy they need to maintain their muscle strength, flexibility and wellbeing.

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BITS + PIECES

WOOLMERS ESTATE SEEKS GOVERNMENT SUPPORT FOR VITAL REPAIRS Woolmers Estate, a UNESCO World Heritage site located in Longford and founded in 1817, is seeking government support for repairs and ongoing maintenance. Mr. John Campbell-Smith, Chairman of the Board, is urging both Federal and State governments to uphold their UNESCO obligations and provide proper support for this significant convict heritage site. While UNESCO doesn’t specifically require governments to fund repairs, its listing does create an expectation that governments will help maintain these valuable sites. In a recent Facebook post, Woolmers emphasised the importance of the initiative, saying, “This initiative is crucial for preserving the historical significance of the site and ensuring that it remains accessible for future generations to appreciate and learn from its rich history.” 15 of Woolmers’ heritage-listed buildings are in need of repairs. Mr. Campbell-Smith said it’s impossible for Woolmers to handle the costs on its own. He also said that Woolmers is the only World Heritage-listed convict site in Australia that isn’t government-owned, instead being managed by a not-for-profit organisation. Added to the World Heritage Register in 2010 for its exceptional universal value, especially in relation to the story of convict assignment, Woolmers is considered one of the most intact examples of a 19th-century homestead in the country.

VOLUNTEERS PROTECT HISTORIC ICE HOUSE REMAINS ON KUNANYI A group of Bushcare volunteers recently ventured up the Ice House Track on Kunanyi/Mt Wellington to help preserve an important piece of Hobart’s history.

In the 1840s, ice was a luxury item in Hobart, often imported at great expense. To solve this, ice houses were built on the mountain, where the cold climate and occasional snow made it an ideal location for storing ice. Over the years, four ice houses were constructed, supplying the city's wealthiest residents with ice for ice creams and drinks. However, by the 1890s, the ice houses fell into disuse, and nature slowly reclaiming the stone structures. The remains of these ice houses were rediscovered after the 1967 bushfires.

Today, the houses are threatened by encroaching vegetation, and that’s why Bushcare volunteers recently removed saplings growing into the walls, ensuring the integrity of the ice houses remains intact. Visitors can view these historic ruins from the track.

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DIRECT HOBART-AUCKLAND FLIGHTS TAKE A SEASONAL BREAK Air New Zealand has wrapped up its direct flights to Tasmania for the season and will pause operations until the Hobart to Auckland service resumes in October 2025. The direct international route between Hobart and Auckland returned in October last year, providing tourists coming from both places greater access to each other and the rest of the world. Over the past five months, more than 20,000 travellers have flown to Tasmania aboard Air New Zealand’s seasonal flights.

SALMON OFF THE MENU AT MURES, TASMANIAN CHEFS JOIN CAMPAIGN Major seafood business Mures has removed Tasmanian salmon from its menus, citing the current spotlight on the industry bringing pressure from customers. Director Will Mure said a "difficult decision" was made to pull it from menus recently. “We have a reputation at stake for our sustainability stance and we would like to stay strong to that," Mr Mure said.

Tasmanian salmon will remain on sale at Mures fishmongers and retail outlets.

A hotspot for tourists and locals alike, Mures’ Hobart waterfront site is made up of four restaurants. A couple of weeks after this announcement, Off the Table Australia was launched, calling on chefs, restaurants and other hospitality businesses to take farmed Atlantic salmon off their menus. So far, Matthew Evans (host of SBS shows Gourmet Farmer and What's the Catch?, owner of Fat Pig Farm), Stephen Peak (head chef at New Norfolk's The Agrarian Kitchen), and Analiese Gregory (host of SBS show Girl's Guide to Hunting, Fishing and Wild Cooking) have joined the campaign. A global coalition campaign founded in Scotland, Off the Table Australia has partner organisations in the UK, Canada and Iceland.

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BITS + PIECES

39% OF TASMANIA’S HOMELESS POPULATION IS UNDER 25 The Youth Network of Tasmania (YNOT) is calling on governments to take urgent action on youth homelessness. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, 39% of the homeless population in Tasmania is under the age of 25. As the peak body for young people aged 12-25 in Tasmania, YNOT recently joined forces with key advocacy groups, including TasCOSS, on National Youth Homelessness Matters Day (16 April) to urge governments at all levels to address this pressing issue. This also comes after Melbourne City Mission released a report finding that over half of young people accessing homelessness services reported self-harm, suicidal ideation, or an attempt to take their own life.

YNOT says that youth homelessness services are currently stretched to breaking point, with many organisations struggling to keep up with growing demand. The increasing complexity of challenges faced by young people, along with a lack of resources and support for both workers and those seeking help, is only making it worse. Without a safe place to call home, young people are at heightened risk of harm, abuse, and exploitation. If you or someone you know needs help, please call Lifeline 24/7 on 13 11 14.

RAPID HEALTH RESPONSE SERVICE LAUNCHED A new initiative aimed at improving healthcare access in Tasmania’s rural and regional communities has been launched with the introduction of the GP NOW Rapid Response Service. It is made up of a team of GPs who can be deployed to support rural and regional communities around Tasmania when and where needed.

The service was created to help out when private offices face problems, like sudden closures, by providing immediate support.

It ensures that people can still see a doctor while longer-term solutions are worked on. GP NOW also supports the training and supervision of GP registrars and junior doctors. The service offers both virtual care and short-term consultations and supervision at local clinics or hospitals. It is one of three services that the Department of Health’s Care@home initiative provides.

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BIG HELP FOR SMALL SNAIL A small snail named after Sir David Attenborough which is found only in rainforests in Tasmania’s south west will benefit from a $50,000 conservation project. Also known as the Burgundy snail, the Attenborougharion rubicundus is a semi-slug. That is, a snail with a shell so small that it cannot retract into it. Poor little fella. The range of the snail is extremely small and was affected by recent bushfires. The project involves a survey on the status, distribution and threats to the snail, and the development of strategies to ensure its survival.

NO MORE SQUINTING Have you ever parked in Hobart and struggled to read your bay number? Well, that’ll soon be a thing of the past. Faded parking bay numbers are being replaced with durable metal plates featuring clear, easy-to-read details. The old numbers were either installed on thermoplastic plates or painted on the kerb, both of which don’t hold up over time. The new metal plates, made from marine-grade aluminium, are built to withstand Hobart's weather, resisting fading, cracking, and peeling. Over 400 plates have already been installed along Davey, Macquarie, Collins, and Liverpool streets, with around 2,000 more set to be added throughout the year.

RECORD-BREAKING TOURIST NUMBERS IN TASMANIA More tourists came to Tasmania than ever before last summer, according to the Tasmanian Visitor Survey, with results showing the state welcomed 453,600 visitors over the three-month period, up 7% from last year. On a more financial note, Premier Jeremy Rockliff revealed that between December 2024 and February 2025, tourists brought in $1.37 billion into the Tasmanian economy, up more than $60m from summer last year. Seems people really did come down for air.

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WHAT’S ON IN HOBART MONDAY

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The ArtsNational Lecture is on Charles Dickens: Man of the Theatre, at Stanley Burbury Theatre, 6pm.

TUESDAY

FRIDAY

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Oh sh!t!

Kevin Bloody Wilson is in town, playing The Goods Shed tonight from 6:30pm.

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Muso, TV presenter and radio broadcaster (you may have seen him on Rockwiz or Spicks and Specks), Henry Wagons performs his show Stories from the Road at the Grand Poobah from 7pm.

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The latest Digital Skills Session at Glenorchy Library teaches how to create a travel journal.

All ages, 9:30am 10:30am.

National Family Violence Remembrance Day will be marked by a candle lighting ceremony at Parliament Square tonight from 5:30pm. Organised by the network of Southern Tasmanian Domestic and Family Violence Services (DVCC).

Have you seen, heard or experienced racism in Tasmania? Share your experiences and ideas at a Let’s Talk About Racism session 5:15pm-6:30pm, MCOT Hub, Moonah.

The Peacock Theatre is the venue for the intimate and bold Kafka’s Monkey, directed by Jacob Golding. From today til 25th.

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Did you know there are some simple things you can do to help reduce your cancer risk? Jane from Cancer Council Tasmania will share some tips at the Kingborough Community Hub from 10am.

Hear presenters June Rosie and Mike Severs explain the colonial history of Norfolk Island in a talk, Norfolk Island: Paradise to Convict Hell, at Howrah Community Centre today from 1:30-3pm.

THURSDAY

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Painter Jock Young’s new solo exhibition, Waterways – Plein Air to Abstraction, has just opened at Handmark Gallery in Salamanca.

Join Dr David Charles in an improvised musical theatre workshop tonight from 6pm at the Founders Room, Salamanca Arts Centre.

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WEDNESDAY

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Looking for a new fun way to stay fit? Try drop-in dodgeball at the Hobart PCYC, Tuesdays 7:308:30. For any level of fitness and experience, as long as you’re 16+.

Watch a three hour celebration of the mountain and adventure sports world with the 2025 Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour. Wrest Point Casino. Info at www. banffaustralia.com.au.

Bernard Fanning (Powderfinger) and Paul Dempsey (Something For Kate) are now duo Fanning Dempsey National Park, at The Odeon tonight, doors 7:30pm.

Join the Sydney Writers Festival via livestream at the Glenorchy Library today.

Later, learn how to create a glam make-up look with the latest styles and trends with makeup artist and colour expert Adam Buechner. 6:30pm, Henry Jones Art Hotel.

At 7pm you can catch a show of Branwell and the other Brontës at Playhouse Theatre, presented by ExitLeft. This drama about the literary Brontë family runs 27 May to 1 June.

Dark Mofo is back, find all the info and tickets at darkmofo.net.au. And in Psycho!, the Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra features the music of Alfred Hitchcock’s classic film from 6pm, Federation Concert Hall.

This year’s Uni Revue, (DIM) WITTED, will skewer society, newsworthy figures and pollies alike as they revisit the most outrageous and mundane events of the year. 7:30pm, Theatre Royal.

ARIA chart topper Pete Murray plays at the Showroom at Wrest Point tonight from 7pm as part of his current Australia and New Zealand tour.

Rosny College students bring NEWSIES - a musical inspired by the real Newsboys Strike of 1899 in New York City, to life at 7:30pm, Dwight Brown Auditorium.

Laugh out loud at Promise and Promiscuity: A New Musical by Jane Austen (yes, deceased) and Penny Ashton, 7pm, Moonah Arts Centre.

MAY SATURDAY

SUNDAY

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Celebrate Mums at the Mother’s Day Classic fun run to raise funds for breast and ovarian cancer research. Bellerive Beach Park, various start times. Later, join the Urban Wine Walk, a self-guided wine-tasting trail through Hobart.

Happy Mother’s Day to all the mums and mother-figures in our lives.

There’s a new writers group in town. Join The Old Nick Company from 2pm-4:30pm today and monthly, 50a Letitia St, North Hobart. All welcome but rsvp via www.oldnick.com.au.

Try a Breathwork session with Kurt Tropiano from Alchemy Breathwork.

2-4pm at Eastern Shore Psychology today and other times.

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Dance music duo Peking Duk (aka Adam Hyde and Reuben Style) bring their musical style and epic hair dos to the Uni Bar for a last hurrah before it closes.

Learn to make your own knife in an introductory weekend course at Mattila Studio at Battery Point’s slip yards.

FURTHER AFIELD

Inside Pompeii: Origins of a European Way of Life is a TMAG exhibition of photography

by Luigi Spina who was able to capture the ancient city during the covid pandemic.

Now learn to make your own compost at home in a one hour workshop at Mathers House from 9am. Free, but bookings essential via www.goodlifepermaculture.com.au.

Watercolour and ink portraits of Georgian cottages at Perusing Oatlands. Pic: FB

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Love cars and coffee? Bring your car along to the monthly Cars and Coffee hangout at the Prince Of Wales Bay Marina in Lutana from 9am today. It’s friendly, with no tolerance for excessive revving or show ponying.

Got an event coming up in Tassie?

Email us at editor@thehobartmagazine.com.au Background photo: Russell Falls. Pic: Stu Gibson

AROUND THE ISLAND MONDAY

TUESDAY

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Head to Burnie Regional Museum for the Greetings from Burnie exhibition, tracing the city’s transformation over the decades. On until 16 May.

Give line dancing a go at Buckland Hall, 7pm-8:30pm, set to toe-tappin’ country music.

A great way to exercise and have fun.

THURSDAY Attend a Q&A showing of the documentary Larapinta: End to End, about Tasmanians with disabilities traversing the Larapinta Trail. 5:30pm at St.Lukes Wellness Centre.

Supercars get revving at Symmons Plains Raceway from today to 11 May for the Tasmania Super 440, promising thrilling races and intense competition.

Hear the engines roar.

Join Tasmanian author Claire Van Ryn at Bayside Hotel in St Helens, 6pm-7pm, as she discusses her second novel, Where the Birds Call Her Name.

Improve your pastel drawing skills at the monthly Soft Pastel Drawing Group, held at Harmony on High Street Campbell Town, 1pm-3pm.

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Grease is the word.

Launceston Church Grammar School presents a stage production of the musical Grease until 17 May at Princess Theatre.

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Six Extinctions is a new exhibition at QVMAG that delves into the biggest events which drastically reshaped life on Earth. Dinosaur fans won’t want to miss it.

Until 17 August.

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Whether you’re new to crochet or working on your own project, consider joining the weekly Crochet Group at George Town Library for a bit of fun, 10am12pm.

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Attend a Q&A with Karen Young, a leading authority on child and adolescent anxiety, at paranaple arts centre, Devonport.

10:30am-12pm.

Join the Stanley & Tarkine Forage Festival to celebrate food and produce in the north west until 18 May.

Test your knowledge at Boathouse Centre Launceston for the Dead Right Quiz Night, marking the end of National Palliative Care Week 2025.

Sing your heart out and enjoy a huge amount of performances and workshops at the Australian Theatre Music Festival which begins today in Launceston until 25 May.

Ghostlight is a theatre tour mixing history, architecture, and performance at Launceston’s Princess Theatre, 4pm5pm.

Tyson Stelzer’s Tasmanian Wine Weekend brings together eight Tasmanian winemakers for lavish lunches and dinners and a two-night stay in the Coal River Valley.

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Wednesday night trivia at Easy Tiger St Helens starts at 6:30pm and is free. A great way to spend time with friends over a meal and drink.

The sowrong-it’sright Uni Revue returns in 2025 with [Dim] Witted - The Wicked Story of the Pollies of Aus, until 31 May at Princess Theatre.

The Campbell Town Show is happening today and tomorrow, featuring a fashion parade, shearing demonstrations, wood chopping, horses, and a fun sausage dog race.

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Du Cane Brewery hosts Warren Miller’s 75th Annual Ski Film, 7pm-9:30pm, stacked with footage of powder action from around the world.

Today’s the 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

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

MAY SATURDAY

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Daredevils better prepare for The Devils Cardigan UCI Gravel World Series, a challenging gravel cycling race in the Derby bush.

Dress warm and meet inside Christ Church Longford for the 45-minute Voices from the Graves tour. Explore the graveyard and learn its history. No bookings required. 5:45pm.

Blues guitarist Brendan Wakely and pianist ade ishs play Communion Brewing Co in Burnie this afternoon from 4:30pm.

Experience a sonic odyssey at Sound in Space #1, the first of a new event series mixing live music with cosmic moving images, at the Ulverstone Planetarium at Hive.

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Come and support Tassie producers and growers at Devonport Farmers Market today, 8:30am12pm. At the Devonport Showground.

Australian indie rock band Holy Holy bring their hiatus tour to Forth Pub tonight from 8pm.

They also play Du Cane Brewery in Launceston on 29 May.

Enjoy flavours from around the globe at World Street Eats.

The cultural community market is from 11am3pm at Launceston Civic Square.

And Then There Were More Mother’s Day events (11 May) Treat your mum to a special Mother’s Day celebration with a Breakfast at Tiffany’s-themed lunch at Woolmers Cafe and Restaurant. Channel your inner Holly Golightly with a little black dress, pearls, and jewels.

Enjoy a bespoke menu featuring eggs benedict, French toast, brioche bagels, croissants, and more, plus a glass of sparkling on arrival. Or join the Mother’s Day Classic fun run and walk in Stanley to raise funds for breast and ovarian cancer research.

Tasmanian State Jigsaw Puzzle Competition (17 May) Join in or watch the second Tasmanian State Jigsaw Puzzle Competition at the Launceston Conference Centre. The event, open to all ages and abilities, celebrates the joy of puzzling. The solo competition kicks off at 10am with a 500-piece puzzle to be completed in two and a half hours. At 1:30pm, teams will tackle a 1000-piece puzzle in two hours.

Tickets are available on Eventbrite.

Participants compete for prizes, including 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place, plus spot and raffle prizes.

Launceston’s biggest fun run and walk event returns today. The McGrath Launceston Running Festival has four events of varying lengths available to join.

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Head to Beaconsfield Mine and Heritage Centre for their family-friendly after-dark tour, 4:30pm-6pm. Held every Saturday in June.

Got an event coming up in Tassie?

Email us at editor@thehobartmagazine.com.au Background photo: The Derwent Experience. Pic: Samuel Shelley Details subject to change. Check the finer points with individual events.

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EXPLORE MORE

WEATHER PERMITTING OR NOT Look, you didn’t come here in winter for a beach dip.

But your head is positively swim ming.

Who knows whether it’s the breathtaking view, the breathtaking Antarctic wind, or the breathtaking second single malt.

But your mind feels completely blown clean.

As though this low pressure system is taking your nervous system down a notch with it.

Today’s forecast? Pretty bloody nice.

Become a winter person this Off Season.

BIRTHDAY SPECIAL

celebrate the seventh anniversary of The Hobart / CELEBRATING OUR ToLaunceston Magazine, we checked in with some of our past cover people to find out what they’ve been up to ANNIVERSARY and which of the seven deadly sins speaks to them.

Jess Wuetschner, our first cover person, ex-AFLW player and now Tasmanian u16 and u18 girls Talent Academy coach What have you been up to since being on our cover? Well I’ve finished up my playing career, played six years with Brisbane and finished up at Essendon in 2023. Since then I’ve moved back to Hobart and have gone into coaching with the Tasmania Devils girls academy. It’s great to be home with family and friends Which of the seven deadly sins speaks to you and why?

Probably gluttony, since retiring I've enjoyed a bit too much of all the naughty foods and drinks I couldn’t when I was an athlete.

Mitch McPherson, Founder of SPEAK UP! Stay ChatTY What have you been up to since being on our cover? 2019, feels like forever. I don’t reflect much, so in doing so for this moment I’ve realised personally I finally took the chance in putting myself out there to be much more than just the “suicide prevention guy”. Harnessing the skills and confidence I had on a microphone to host a radio show, host dinners, events, and even the JackJumpers on-court MC. Proof that adding some belief in the mix with the skills you possess, really can help you to achieve the things you want in life! PS. The JackJumpers won the Championship in my first year on the mic. ;-) Which of the seven deadly sins speaks to you and why?

Greed – this one simply speaks to me more at the moment given the way of the world, and how many areas of the Middle East in particular (of which I am passionate about) have problems that only seem to be getting worse on a daily basis. Religion and a wide scale difference of beliefs, seems to be one of the key areas problems arise from. The greed that comes from these varied beliefs is hard to grasp, and the sense of entitlement to possess more than one needs, is at times hard to fathom.

Matt Bevilacqua, Ironman What have you been up to since being on our cover? I've continued racing in the professional Ironman Series and I'm now approaching my 13th year racing. My fiancé, Brielle, and I are expecting our first child in June and will be flying down later in the year to meet all the family at home in Tassie. I still love flying the flag of Tasmania in the top levels of Surf Life Saving and it was great 30

Naarah, Freelance actor, performer, singer and creative What have you been up to since being on our cover? Crazily, I said goodbye to Glenorchy and moved to London!

I’ve since completed my masters here, performed on the West End and even won a big national award for NAIDOC week. I work between Australia and London now in so many forms of the creative arts and no two days are *ever* the same. London is huge and so exciting but I always love getting back to Nipaluna for fresh air and an amazing local speciality coffee.

Which of the seven deadly sins speaks to you and why?

What an interesting question! I’d have to say it’s envy and always has been! I’ve always wanted more and seen people far and wide doing great things and wanted to be them so bad.

Part of me is grateful though as it’s pushed me to think bigger, bolder and out of the square.

Tom Wolfe, Country music artist, The Wolfe Brothers What have you been up to since being on our cover? Well, that’s a big question haha!

My wife and I had our third baby girl, Lennon Wolfe. She’s nearly 10 weeks old now. So life’s great, chaotic but great.

We finished our biggest tour to date and released a documentary about it called Livin' The Dream, on YouTube. We were also lucky enough to win the Country Town Tour of the Year award! Very cool. And we just released a song called Australian Made we are super proud of.

Which of the seven deadly sins speaks to you and why?

I’ve been asked a lot of questions in my career, but NEVER have I been asked this! Right now the one that speaks to me is Envy, well kind of. In this world of social media taking over I often find myself comparing myself to others and what they have and what I don’t. It’s good to disconnect and get back to yourself and what you can control and let go of the things you can’t. to see a big representation of my old club Clifton Beach at Australia Titles a few weeks ago. Clifton is by far the strongest club in Tassie at the moment with some big things on the horizon for it moving forward. But all good up here on the Gold Coast and congratulations on a 70th edition and a successful seven years!

Which of the seven deadly sins speaks to you and why? I think envy speaks to me the most, I love seeing people achieving big goals and dreams but I must admit there is a degree of envy that aids my motivation at many points in training and life!

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BIRTHDAY SPECIAL

Anna Mychalchuk, Artist What have you been up to since being on our cover? After my story appeared on the cover of the Hobart magazine and the wow-feelings subsided, I continued to share my passion of floral folk Samchykivka art, so lots of art activities have happened. I want to share these three inspirational stories from my art life: I set an official World Record last year by organising my solo art exhibition, dedicated to Ukrainian folk Samchykivka style, where visitors could explore about 50 of my artworks at Moonah Arts Centre. The event was very successful and I was honoured to have Vasyl Myroshnychenko, Ambassador of Ukraine to Australia and New Zealand attend. I realised my love for birds by publishing a new book, an author's colouring book dedicated to the endemic birds of Tasmania. It can be found in Hobart gift shops. Remembering my passion for painting murals, after creating the Optimism mural at Esteem Coffee, I was very happy to create two new murals during this time.

Which of the seven deadly sins speaks to you and why?

Honestly, I think they are all present at different levels and at different times. No one is ideal. If I talk about one of them, the others will be upset :)

Lizzy Crotty, Head of Development for Australian Wildlife Conservancy UK What have you been up to since being on our cover? In September 2024 you interviewed me about my upcoming trip to Antarctica on a women in STEMM leadership expedition, and now I’ve been! It was an extraordinary privilege, an experience that filled me with immense gratitude and inspiration—I still can't quite believe it happened!

I met some phenomenal people and we learned so much about achieving transformative change for the climate and biodiversity crises. On top of that, I recently married my wonderful partner of nine years, was appointed as an Ambassador for AFL Europe, and even met the Queen at St James's Palace.

Which of the seven deadly sins speaks to you and why? Definitely gluttony—just one glance at the trail of Easter egg wrappers currently littering our kitchen is all the proof you'll need!

Lauren Perry, cyclist What have you been up to since being on our cover? I had a very consistent training block working towards my goals in track sprinting. My body has become bigger, stronger, faster and more powerful. I have also been learning to accept my body growing and changing which has been more challenging than I anticipated. I won medals at the Queensland State Championships and Oceania Championships, came home 32

Bert Spinks, Tasmanian poet What have you been up to since being on our cover?

Around the same time I was on the cover of The Hobart / Launceston Magazine, I started a Substack account called "Letters from a Storyteller": a space where I share travel writing, meditations on the bush, poems and photographs. I've found it a really satisfying medium. It's also been a time for finding opportunities to perform in a little-known place called The Mainland - a very mysterious part of the world!

Which of the seven deadly sins speaks to you and why?

I've been thinking about pride. I heard a story of a person who went out for a bushwalk. They thought they had enough experience to take that particular route but they managed to lose the track. Instead of heading back to reorientate themselves or give up, they ploughed on; they bush-bashed for hours and put themselves in real danger instead of calling for help. It was all just to save themselves some embarrassment. That somehow didn't seem unfamiliar to me.

Tim Hurburgh, Architect and writer What have you been up to since being on our cover? I’ve been enjoying Tassie climes and the unique opportunities for reflection and celebration of our island’s intense cultural and physical assets. Evoking our humble timber sheds I’ve designed a challenging house extension in West Hobart and written two books. Tall Poplars – a semi fictional take on Derwent Valley short stories published recently, and another illustrated children’s book (to be published later this year) explaining rainbows (inspired by their ubiquitous presence in the ‘Valley) entitled, ‘Why oh Why’!

Which of the seven deadly sins speaks to you and why?

Well several do, but this in particular: Pride Pride, comes before a fall’, so true, requires negotiation too, striving for goals, achievements lauded, a balance of confidence and diffidence.

to race the Christmas Carnival Series across Tassie and watched plenty of JackJumpers games. In between training I've had the privilege of delivering speeches to Queensland schools.

Which of the seven deadly sins speaks to you and why?

Pride. I think this sometimes shows up in the form of selfishness.

I have made a lot of choices throughout my career to prioritise my sporting success which has meant missing significant milestones and events of those close to me. I anticipate that my priorities will change when I retire from sport and I hope to be more selfless and present for my friends and family.

Celebrating Launnie Long-standers Starting, maintaining, and growing a business is never easy – it demands vision, strategy, and grit.

So we’re showcasing our ‘Launnie Long-standers’, the local businesses that have stood the test of time, earning trust and making a lasting impact on our wonderful city, from those celebrating a decade of operation to those that have served our community for generations.

Follow along as we spotlight their journeys through a series of interviews in which our Launnie Long-standers themselves share the stories behind their success and the valuable lessons they’ve learned along the way. And keep an eye out around town for the Launnie Long-standers badges proudly on display in the windows of businesses that have been around for 10 years or more.

This is more than a celebration; it’s a tribute to the businesses that have shaped our city and a source of inspiration for those following in their footsteps.

Scan the QR code or head to qrco.de/launnie-longstanders to learn more

FEATURE

TASSIE’S TIM CARROLL TAKES A BOW ON HOLY HOLY After more than a decade and five albums, indie rock band Holy Holy are having a break and they’re commemorating this with a national hiatus tour. We reached out to the band’s Launceston-based singer and songwriter, Tim Carroll, to look back on the band’s impact, and what comes next. In Tasmania, Tim is also known for creating A Festival Called Panama.

Tell us a bit about Holy Holy and its origin story. When I was 18 (more than 20 years ago), I travelled to Thailand and worked as a volunteer English teacher in a few different schools around the country.

I was young, extremely naive, and equally optimistic. I had my backpack and a cheap nylon string guitar. During my first couple of days in the country, I organised to meet up with some other young folks from Australia who were doing the same things as me. I remember we had arranged to meet in a McDonald's in a city somewhere south of Bangkok. I walked in, and there was a guy also holding a cheap-looking nylon-string guitar. That young man was Oscar Dawson. Oscar and I taught together in Thailand for about three months. When we weren’t teaching, we rode motorcycles through the rice pad-

dies, played soccer with the local kids, ate endless amazing street food, learnt basic Thai and at night, we would drink Thai rum and play music. Playing music with Oscar was always a joy. He was (and is) a truly gifted player, and when we made music together, it was effortless. When we moved back to Australia, I didn't see him often, but we kept in touch. It wasn't until 2011 that we reconnected and we started writing together. Those early demos turned into our first album, an album released under the name Holy Holy.

What led to the decision to go on hiatus? We’ve been going pretty flat chat for about 12 years. Five albums and a lot of touring and so on. It has honestly been so fulfilling and incredible. I’m so proud of what we’ve done, and I feel so lucky to have had the chance to make music with dear friends and for that music to have found an audience. For now, though, the time feels right to step away. To see what life is like without the band in the mix.

What are your plans after Holy Holy?

I’m moving to Stockholm with my family in July. We’re going to live there for the next two years. Over there, I’ll be studying Swedish. I’ll probably be doing some songwriting on other artists' work, and I’m also planning to produce some visual art, specifically paintings.

You’ll be performing your hiatus tour in Launceston on 29 May, Hobart on 30 May, and Forth Pub on 31 May. What does it mean for you to perform these Tasmanian shows? You know it's always weird performing in front of your friends and family. I live in Launceston and I keep a pretty low profile. I have two small kids, so I’m really in Dad-mode when I'm not on tour, so it is strange to be up on stage in your hometown. That said, these

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Tassie shows will be magic. The venues are great, and it’s going to be a special show.

Any teases for the setlist? Well, we’re bringing back a few older tunes from the first album, including one that features our gifted drummer, Ryan Strathie, playing a drum solo. Not something you tend to see very often these days, the drum solo, and always a crowd favourite.

What are your favourite songs to perform live and why? Our third album is called My Own Pool of Light, and it opens with this four-song medley. Maybe You Know - into Faces - into Flight - into Sandra. Each song bleeds into the next and it's this wild and very satisfying suite.

We often perform that block on stage, in the band, we call them the four horses of the apocalypse.

What’s one highlight from your time with Holy Holy that you’d like to share?

We played the Groovin' the Moo tour a few years back, and that was a really special time. It’s a unique setup because the same bands fly around for a month playing festivals all over the country in regional areas. And the nice thing is you get to hang out with and get to know the other bands a bit. The year we did it was with Billie Eilish, Coolio, Fisher, DMA's, Thelma Plum, Trophy Eyes and many others. It was great to hang out in each other's green rooms and yarn together.

When you’re not touring or making music, what do you enjoy doing in Tasmania? I’m obsessed with tennis. I play two or three times a week. I’m in a pennant team (shout out Du Cane Rangers). I love that game. It is SUCH a fun way to get exercise. Anyway - don’t get me started on tennis - I’m a bit of a tennis nerd.

BOOKS

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!

This month we’ve got the most gorgeous picture book, plus a long awaited new book by the fabulous Minnie Darke.

These two are sure to become favourite books for many people, young and old.

Three Juliets by Minnie Darke (Penguin Random House Australia, April 2025) Review by Megan Tighe In Three Juliets, Claudie Miller is a household name, after years sharing sought-after clothing patterns and sewing advice in an Australian women's magazine. In 1984, her latest design - for a highly desirable ‘sweet sixteen’ dress, the titular ‘Juliet’ - has caused a shortage of silk fabric across the country. At the same time, we meet three teenage girls: Roisin, Miranda and Bindi, who each come to own a Juliet. Without giving too much away...more than a dress connects these

women. Three Juliets unravels who they each are to one another, and for whom the Juliet was originally intended. Each character is a fully fleshed-out person, helping present nuanced perspectives on girlhood, womanhood, and motherhood across the decades. The novel also grapples with a history of stigma against young and unmarried mothers, forced adoptions, and different experiences of growing up as an adopted child.

There is something just so delightful, so pleasing about picking up a thick, meaty new novel by a writer you know you will enjoy. It's that anticipation of a guaranteed good time (and a decently long time too). The latest by Minnie Darke (a.k.a Hobart's own Danielle Wood) does not disappoint. It is engaging and satisfying; it's what we in the club call, simply, ‘a really good read’.

Digger Digs Down by Johanna Bell and Huni Melissa Bolliger (UQP, July 2024) Review by Emily Schade

We’ve been celebrating this year’s Tasmanian Literary Awards and were delighted that this joyous book was the winner of the Minister for the Arts’ Prize for Books for Young Readers and Children.

Digger Digs Down is a tale (tail?) of an adventurous, digging dog, who digs deep deep down to find all sorts of wonders.

Told in wonderfully simple and repetitive language, this story keeps good pace, holds my one-year-old’s attention, and is poetic to read aloud - delightful. As lovely as the language is, the real heroes of this story are the glorious illustrations.

Warm autumnal hues, deep oceanic blue and greens, soft edges, warm lights, and a very happy dog; these illustrations are mesmerising and full of imagination and wonder.

As a staunch dog family, this beautiful book has been a huge hit in my household and will remain a favourite for years to come. Big congratulations to author Johanna Bell and illustrator Huni Melissa Bolliger!

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Book Chatter Trying to find your place in Tassie's bookish communities? There have never been so many, or such specific, options - you just have to look out for them (and give them a go)! This month we thought we'd introduce you to a few new bookish tribes and spaces: • Just want to read, or write? But maybe in company? Libraries Tasmania has opened new bookable Writer's Rooms for quiet or communal writing, reading and bookish discussion. Don't forget the Town Hall also opens the Henry Hunter room for locals to hang out and enjoy the selection of Tasmanian books. And, Hobart's Silent Book Club meets the fourth Friday of each month.

• Two new book clubs have started in Hobart. The Tasmanian Palestine Advocacy Network (TPAN) has started a new bimonthly ‘Kitaab’ (book) club, focusing on Palestinian literature. Queer Book Club Tasmania is building a community with book talk, crafternoons and other social events welcoming to all. Check out @queerbookclub_tas on Instagram to get chatting and find details of upcoming gatherings.

• Five Leaves Left is hosting a monthly salon on the last Tuesday of the month to hear What Writers Read, featuring local authors talking about overlooked/ underrated books. It is ticketed, but includes a very nice drink and a sure-tobe-coveted spot in the tiny shop.

Keen to chat books with us?

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

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PSYCHOLOGY

LEGACY Words: Annia Baron As children were playing and adults were happily chatting away, I found myself in conversation with Linda, a beautiful woman in her 70s. We were exchanging pleasantries and talking about life in Southern Tasmania. We got onto the topic of gardening and our shared appreciation for all things cultivating, planting, weeding, and everything in between.

I proceeded to tell Linda that when I moved into my property, one of my neighbours had informed me about the previous owners, Nick and Macy, and how they were avid gardeners and well known for their horticultural wisdom.

The couple had spent years investing in the soil, nurturing it diligently. By the time I had moved in the grass was overgrown, but underneath the shrubbery, the ground was thriving with worms and bugs and still had that sought after chocolate cake consistency.

I told Linda that while my husband and I didn’t have any gardening experience, we relished the idea of creating a beautiful space that could grow our fresh produce, and a surplus to share with our friends too. Garlic, tomatoes, broad beans, silverbeet, and potatoes. It wasn’t a lot to begin with but we tended to it as much as we could. We built compost bins from recycled wood and sourced and stripped bamboo culms to create bespoke garden enclosures. The natural materials were both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

That was our aim – to ensure that nothing artificial entered this space. No plastics, no treated materials, nothing that could seep into the ground and interfere with the organic evolution of growth. Even though we didn’t know Nick and Macy, we wanted to honour their legacy.

As I regaled Linda with my intentions for our future art-garden, I observed her presence. She was listening intently and smiling. She said, “Annia, talking to you 38

and hearing this today is powerful.” At first, I thought she was being kind and simply appreciated that the next generation of families are keen to preserve the land. But that wasn’t it. Linda told me that serendipitously, she was Macy’s best friend, and that Macy was dying.

“She was diagnosed with cancer, and it spread to her brain. They say Macy only has a few weeks left,” Linda explained.

She continued, “You know, the cancer attacked the part of her brain that controls speech, but she can still hear, and I can’t wait to tell her this because I think it will make her happy to know.”

Maybe you already know what you want your legacy to stand for.

Perhaps you’re already that way attuned. But asking yourself the following questions can be a good way to provide further clarity: 1. If you knew you only had five years left to live, how would you live your life, and why?

2. Imagine you were able to attend your own funeral. What would you absolutely love to hear your favourite people say about you?

3. If you could leave the world one sentence to read about you and what you stood for, what would that be.

We avoid thinking about our death. That’s normal. None of us want to be reminded that our time is limited. However, contemplating our legacy can be empowering.

It can offer us permission to adjust our behaviour and make choices that feel

more aligned with how we want to be remembered. Because at the end of the day, that’s what we all want. We long to know our lives were meaningful and that what we did, and how we did it, influenced others in a positive way.

Sometimes we think of legacy as having to be something monumental such as achieving global success or being known for making remarkable contributions to society. The truth is legacy is about the small things. The way you speak to your kids when you’re tired from not having slept well the night before, the way you greet the barista who serves you coffee each morning or the way you choose to prioritise your self-care practices when so much else also needs doing. Because regardless of whether you think about your death or not, you’re already creating a legacy. It’s how you show up and how you choose to share yourself with others.

None of us will ever comprehend how our life’s choices will influence the world after we’re gone, but nurturing the seeds of our legacy now, be it through our love of gardening, our desire to commit to our goals, or our willingness to better understand ourselves, can leave us feeling a little lighter about the inevitabilities of our limited time here together.

Think about your legacy.

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

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ANDREW WILKIE Your Independent Federal MP

Want to get in touch with Andrew?

P P P P

Drop into the office at 188 Collins Street Hobart Phone 6234 5255 or 6234 5861 Email andrew.wilkie.mp@aph.gov.au Write to me at GPO Box 32 Hobart 7001

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ANDREW WILKIE Your Independent Federal MP www.andrewwilkie.org ANDREW WILKIE www.andrewwilkie.org andrew.wilkie.mp@aph.gov.au Telephone 03 6234 5255 Authorised by Andrew Wilkie MP

188 Collins Street Hobart 7000

Independent Member for Clark

DINE AND WINE

WINE Merlot

HOME Nocton Tasmania Estate Merlot 2023 ($36) Planted in 1999, Nocton’s vines are among the Coal River Valley's oldest, making them a great showcase for the region. Their unpretentious Merlot has aromas of raspberry and rhubarb, with a soft, smooth, and delicate palate. Fresh cranberry and redcurrant juiciness give it the feel of a young wine. It’s definitely youthful but with a maturity waiting to be uncorked. With a bit of air, the wine deepens and intensifies, revealing hints of the complexity. A graceful expression of the region's potential.

Set the vibe: Music: Origins by Tennis Food: Slow cooker beef stew When: Friyayyy

AWAY Katnook Estate Merlot 2020 ($47) Katnook lies in the heart of Coonawarra, South Australia, a celebrated but overlooked wine region compared to the more famous Barossa Valley. Scottish immigrant John Riddoch first planted vines at Katnook in 1895, but after years of farming and sheep stations, the first vines of a new era were planted in 1971, leading to this Merlot today. This fruit-forward Merlot bursts with plum, dark berry, and tobacco notes, finishing long and smooth. Aged 22 months in French oak, it’s endlessly drinkable, though all good things must come to an end eventually.

Set the vibe: Music: Somewhere Somehow

by Oddnesse Food: Shepherd's pie When: After a long day on the farm (or, you know, in the office) 40

Benny Bintruck is a messy, noisy garbage truck just trying to do his job.

A fun new children's book by author Stephanie Williams. Available at selected book stores locally and online (includes shipping). www.bennybintruck.com I

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TOASTY ROAST PUMPKIN AND TOMATO SOUP This recipe takes your classic pumpkin soup and turns it up a notch.

Ingredients

• 4 large tomatoes or a punnet of cherry tomatoes

• 3 cloves of garlic, whole and peeled • 4 cups water/salt reduced chicken stock • 4 tbsp olive oil • Fresh thyme

• 1 red onion, quartered

• Salt and pepper

• 1 whole pumpkin (Butternut or Kent)

Method Preheat oven to 180 degrees. Peel and cut pumpkin and tomatoes into similar size chunks and add to a roasting pan with olive oil, salt, pepper, thyme, onions, garlic.

Roast for 20 minutes or until pumpkin is soft and tomatoes are caramelised. Transfer everything to a large pot with the water/stock, then bring to the boil. Blitz with a stick blender or very carefully pour all ingredients into a blender and blitz until super smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Enjoy with crusty bread.

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COMMUNITY

Simone Zell, CEO of Neighbourhood Houses Tasmania, leads a network of welcoming community hubs dotted across the state. , she shares what makes these spaces special, the role they play in people’s lives, and why they’re the heart of their communities, especially during Neighbourhood House Week running from 12-18 May. What exactly is a Neighbourhood House? Neighbourhood Houses are wonderful resourceful spaces, dotted around communities in Tasmania, quietly achieving great things and at the same time bustling with volunteers and community members. We often say we are the ‘heart of our communities’ – where a little kindness goes a long way, a hub of activity that welcomes everyone, and where friendship, support and new connections can be found every day! I’d really encourage everyone to visit their local House to see how they work in action – they're magical places!

What happens day-to-day in Neighbourhood Houses? Every day there are all sorts of different things happening in our Houses, ranging from community lunches, arts and craft groups for all ages, gardening, learner driver mentoring, exercise programs, and so much more. You can visit a Neighbourhood House for all kinds of reasons – for example, to find out what is happening in your local area, if you need someone to talk to, want to learn a new skill, or need help with cost-of-living pressures.

Tell us about Neighbourhood House Week. Neighbourhood House Week runs from 12-18 May, and this year the theme is ‘Ripples of Change’, recognising that small actions can lead to big impacts.

During Neighbourhood House Week, Houses will be running all sorts of events celebrating their communities – you can see what’s happening near you by heading to our website, www.nht.org.au.

What’s a recent inspiring story from a Tasmanian Neighbourhood House you’d like to share? Nearly every time I visit a Neighbourhood House, I meet a volunteer or community member who initially came to the House because they were in a hard place. Now the House is a huge part of their life and they are a valued member of the House community. To me this represents what we are all about – while we do provide links to vital services, the magic and life-changing work we do is in building those local connections and fostering community resilience. It’s really special, and I don’t know of many other organisations that provide the same level of grassroots, community-led support that Houses do.

What has been one of the most fulfilling aspects of your role as CEO? Every day I hear great stories, but our members are also under increasing pressure. They are seeing more people in our communities suffering increasing hardship every day. And while Neighbourhood Houses have an uncanny ability to make a little

Simone Zell

HOW NEIGHBOURHOOD HOUSES STRENGTHEN TASSIE COMMUNITY

funding go a long way, we are operating in a complex environment, and it is impossible to keep doing more with less. Our beating hearts are feeling the pressure. A central part of my role is to advocate to the Government for resources so that we can continue to provide safe, positive spaces for staff, volunteers, and community. This is challenging in the current economic environment, but very fulfilling when we achieve the practical support our communities need.

How can people give back to their community through their local Neighbourhood House? We couldn’t exist without the incredible support we have from volunteers. Together, we’re committed to creating resilient, thriving communities.

Even if you only have a couple of hours a month, there will be a way to give back to your community through your local Neighbourhood House. Whether supporting people with technology, cooking up a storm for a community lunch, or helping in the community garden, there’s something for everyone. A big challenge is recruiting skilled local people to be on the community-led boards. So, if you have a passion for community and have governance skills (or a willingness to learn), you could ask about joining your local board and help keep the heart beating strongly.

To find your local Neighbourhood House, visit our website. Liking and following your local Neighbourhood House on Facebook is also a great way to stay in the loop!

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Host an orange-themed Event and donate to a great local cause supporting Tasmanians with this muscle weakening condition.

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HOMES

IS IT TIME FOR A SWEDISH DEATH CLEAN? We’ve all done it. Held on to things we’re convinced we can’t live without - perhaps clothes we hope to fit back into or an extra cutlery set received as a housewarming gift from…who was it again? Australians are notorious for accumulating stuff. We even spend an average of $163 a year on self-storage to house it all. The kicker is that almost a quarter of those paying for storage can’t even remember what’s in there!

We make room for things we don’t know if we truly need. But have you ever wondered what happens to all that stuff after we’re gone? Do we dump the lot on our unsuspecting loved ones, or painstakingly bequeath each and every item out to this person and that person? Who’s getting the air fryer? The Ninja Bullet?

When it comes to living a more organised life, there’s few better to learn from than the Swedes. And no, we don’t just mean through Ikea (although that Pax wardrobe system is hard to beat). Minimalistic, clutter-free living is ingrained in Scandinavian culture, and it extends to how they approach death.

Enter the Swedish death clean. Known as döstädning in Sweden, this method encourages you to take a mildly morbid approach to decluttering by removing everything from your life before you die.

Instead of waiting until your twilight years, why not challenge yourself to do

this now? Remove anything that isn’t essential, creating a minimalist lifestyle that not only benefits you now but also lightens the load for your loved ones later.

The key is to be ruthless: If you haven’t used it or thought about it in a year, toss it, donate it, or sell it. If you didn’t want it before, you probably don’t need it now.

Rini Puccetti, who lives on a rural property in north west Tasmania next to Mount Roland, is a strong advocate for the Swedish death clean. She’s the founder of Wilderness Lab, where she produces Tasmanian solid perfumes and lotion bars.

Rini took the plunge and completed her own death clean, documenting the process in a YouTube video that has garnered over 200,000 views.

Like many, Rini first encountered the concept of Swedish death cleaning through the book The Gentle Art of Swedish Death Cleaning by Margareta Magnusson. She had already begun decluttering her home after her children left when she stumbled upon the idea. “I was sorting through household items and deciding what to donate and what to keep and store,” Rini tells us. “As I moved the items into our storage areas, I began to notice that these areas were getting full and we were actually spending money on creating more space. It suddenly seemed ridiculous to me and I questioned why we were keeping all of these things we didn’t need.”

This realisation made the Swedish death clean concept even more appealing, so Rini and her husband decided to give it a try. At first, the idea of drastically reducing their possessions was daunting.

“But once we got into it,” Rini says, “it became cathartic and actually enjoyable.

As we began to see our items reduce and our free space increase, we were even more motivated by the changes.” They’d held on to items for years, usually out of sentimentality or for some ‘just in case’ scenario that never happened. Letting go of those things felt freeing. “It was like an emotional burden was lifted, and both my husband and I felt more optimistic and focused on the future.”

Now, Rini’s home is much neater and more serene. “Having less things around you makes it easier to see what you have, it’s easier to clean, and is just more relaxing. Our home is a more tranquil space overall,” she says. She finds herself less stressed about tidying up when guests visit because the house is already tidy!

For anyone considering starting their own death clean but feeling overwhelmed by the task, Rini has some advice: “Just start today, even if it’s just one cupboard or drawer. Don’t get overwhelmed with the big picture and just begin with small areas. As you start to see changes, you will feel more motivated to tackle the big things. Understand your uniquely personal reason for wanting to simplify your life, and use that as your motivation. Remember that it’s a journey and not just a finite task you start and finish.”

Rini has made several videos on Swedish death cleaning, including tips on how to prevent accumulating more stuff in the future. You can check them out on her YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/@ItsMissRini.

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HOROSCOPES

ZODIAC CHECK-IN: YOUR MONTHLY ASTRO UPDATE Words: Sara Hewitt Aries (21 Mar - 19 Apr): The Full Moon in Scorpio on the 13th highlights your shared resources and emotional depth.

Saturn moves on the 25th, encouraging you to take personal goals more seriously and build your vision with patience. The Sun in Gemini from the 21st lights up your communication zone, bringing fresh energy to your ideas and interactions.

Virgo (23 Aug - 22 Sep): The Full Moon in Scorpio on the 13th reveals outdated communication patterns. Saturn’s shift on the 25th brings a more grounded approach to emotional investments, making you more intentional in close bonds. When the Sun enters Gemini on the 21st, your professional life lights up.

Capricorn (22 Dec - 19 Jan): May opens with the Full Moon in Scorpio on the 13th, asking you to clear out social or community ties that feel draining. Saturn moves on the 25th, bringing long-term focus to communication and learning.

The Sun’s shift into Gemini on the 21st highlights your health and daily life.

Libra (23 Sep - 22 Oct): The Full Moon in Scorpio on the 13th helps you release money blocks or unhelpful beliefs about self-worth. Saturn moves on the 25th, encouraging structure and growth in your daily routines. Start creating systems that truly support your energy. As the Sun enters Gemini on the 21st, your curiosity is reignited.

Aquarius (20 Jan - 18 Feb): The Full Moon in Scorpio on the 13th asks you to release outdated career ambitions or emotional stress around success. Saturn moves on the 25th into your financial zone, making this a powerful time to build sustainable resources and stronger selfworth. As the Sun enters Gemini on the 21st, joy and creativity return.

Cancer (21 Jun - 22 Jul): The Full Moon in Scorpio on the 13th brings release in matters of creativity or romance. Saturn’s shift on the 25th highlights career goals and responsibilities, pushing you to define your ambition. When the Sun enters Gemini on the 21st, introspection calls.

Scorpio (23 Oct - 21 Nov): This month, the Full Moon in your sign on the 13th asks you to release old layers and step into a more empowered version of yourself. Saturn’s move on the 25th helps you take creativity or romantic pursuits seriously. When the Sun enters Gemini on the 21st, shared resources and emotional bonds take focus.

Pisces (19 Feb - 20 Mar): The Full Moon in Scorpio on the 13th invites you to let go of limiting beliefs. Saturn’s move on the 25th lands in your values sector, asking you to solidify self-worth and financial plans over time. The Sun enters Gemini on the 21st, turning your focus toward home and emotional grounding.

Leo (23 Jul - 22 Aug): This month’s Full Moon in Scorpio on the 13th encourages you to let go of emotional weight around home or family. The Sun in Gemini, starting the 21st, brings a playful, social vibe. Saturn’s move on the 25th deepens your emotional and financial partnerships, helping you build trust and shared stability.

Sagittarius: (22 Nov - 21 Dec): The Full Moon in Scorpio on the 13th draws attention to what you’ve kept hidden. Saturn moves on the 25th, encouraging discipline in home and family matters. As the Sun enters Gemini on the 21st, partnerships come into focus, bringing energy and light to your oneon-one connections.

Taurus (20 Apr - 20 May): This month asks you to take a closer look at your relationships. The Full Moon in Scorpio on the 13th shines a light on partnerships.

Saturn’s shift on the 25th helps you reflect on your long-term dreams with grounded focus. The Sun in Gemini on the 21st puts attention on your values and finances.

Gemini (21 May - 20 Jun): The Sun enters your sign on the 21st, giving you a surge of confidence and clarity. But before that, the Full Moon in Scorpio on the 13th urges you to release toxic routines or habits that disrupt your well-being. Saturn’s move on the 25th asks you to bring structure to your goals.

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