The Hobart Magazine May 2024

THE HOBART MAGAZINE / MAY 2024: ISSUE 58

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INDEPENDENT + LOCAL

BERT SPINKS

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ON AC ’S

SS RO

WHAT

TASMANIAN POET ON HOW TO BECOME A WINTER PERSON

S M A NIA

HOW A HARP IN THE WILDERNESS INSPIRES MUSICIAN EMILY SANZARO

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Tassie Community News + Events Created in partnership with Tourism Tasmania

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Publisher Stephanie Williams editor@thehobartmagazine.com.au

WELCOME TO

THE HOBART MAGAZINE Welcome to May, where autumn is gracefully giving way to winter. But this isn’t a time to hibernate. We’ve partnered with Tourism Tasmania this month to create a very special Off Season guide to winter, with 24 pages brimming with stories as well as tips on how to become a winter person and some fantastic offers across the island.

Alongside all our regular features, community news and

events, this truly is a bumper edition for you to enjoy! As always, we want to hear from you. Drop us a line at editor@ thehobartmagazine.com.au or tag us on socials while you’re venturing around Tasmania.

All the best, Steph, James and The Hobart Magazine team

Advertising advertise@thehobartmagazine.com.au 03 6295 3742 Cover images: Melanie Kate Photography This page: Cultivate Productions, Tourism Tasmania Publisher Information: While all care has been taken, some information may have changed since publication.

The Hobart Magazine regrets it can’t accept liabilities from errors or omissions contained in this magazine. The publisher reserves the right to refuse, withdraw or amend all advertisements without explanation. Reproduction in whole or part without permission is prohibited. The views expressed in articles and advertisements are not endorsed by the editor or publishers. We welcome any questions, feedback or submissions, email editor@ thehobartmagazine.com.au, or drop us a line at PO Box 315, South Hobart, TAS, 7004. The editorial partnership with Tourism Tasmania in this edition is undertaken on a commercial basis.

The Hobart 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 PEOPLE

GRAZIANO DI MARTINO Picture: James Michalowski Founder of New Town’s Rewind Cinema, which pays tribute to films of the 80s and 90s, Graziano has helped foster an enthusiastic community for film buffs of all ages.

Where did you grow up and where do you live now? I grew up in West Moonah in a working-class Italian immigrant household. I now reside in Lenah Valley.

Tell us a little about your work. It’s one of the most interesting jobs I’ve done so far in my life. Previously I was a restaurateur for 15 years. I was a resident DJ for a few years back in the early 2000s.

I was a professional photographer for seven years photographing weddings around the world...and this by far, is the most creative, dynamic, intense and most rewarding job I’ve ever had. And also the hardest I’ve ever pushed myself in my working life.

You started Rewind Cinema in 2022.

How has it grown in that time? Any unexpected challenges? It’s been thoroughly enriching watching this curious, creative endeavour turn into a fully functioning indie cinema. It’s like watching a plant grow. You get your hands dirty planting the seeds, water it consistently over time and with love and care it grows into something you can quietly admire.

There’s been plenty of challenges, particularly having not worked in a cinema before and having no idea about how any of it worked, but with anything worth doing there are going to be struggles, like getting broken into last year. The community response after the break in showed me that this is something really special and means a lot to a lot of people. It was really beautiful how much people cared.

Do you have a favourite memory from one of your showings? This is a tough one. There’s way too many. The party 6

screenings are always the best, the air is electric on those nights. Rocky Horror Picture Show and The Princess Bride screenings were a lot of fun, with all the dress ups and crowd interaction. But also the world cinema movies with intimate crowds and the roundtable audience/ group chats after the screenings; they’re amazing and make it all such a unique, warm experience. But it’s got to be the simple act of the crowd clapping after a screening. That’s the best. Everyone enjoying a movie together, and clapping to show it...that’s primo.

What sparked your interest in cinema and the moviegoing experience? It was coming out of COVID and at the time I’d put photography on pause to see what else I wanted to do. Creatively I’d burnt out and was looking at trying something different. I screened some classic black and white Italian films at Don Camillo Restaurant (my family’s restaurant) on Monday evenings. I fell in love with the atmosphere of that intimate space watching beautiful films with people who were strangers at the start of the film but had become friends by the end. I discovered the Hidden Theatre space (where Rewind operates out of) at Kickstart Arts on an exploratory Sunday bike ride, and I just thought ‘this would be an awesome place to watch The Princess Bride and The Neverending Story with a bunch of people’. Those were the two films that triggered the idea. That’s where it all started.

What are your three desert island movies and why? Amour by Micheal Haneke - to remind me that life is not perfect, that it is made up of equal parts happiness and sadness. Robot Dreams by Pablo Berger - the colours, the animation, the characters and the story. It’s a beautiful celebration of friendship and life.

Koyaanisqatsi by Godfrey Reggio - if I’m on an island by myself this will keep me company when I’m missing the world.

Who do you admire? Anyone that goes against the grain, follows their dreams and burns their light bright while being kind and respectful of others.

Favourite podcast or tv show? The

Blindboy Podcast. It’s my happy place.

Secret vice? A Touch of Frost - best show ever made (closely followed by Cheers/Frasier and Golden Girls). Yes, that’s my vice.

What are you reading now? Currently reading The Buried Giant by Kazuo Ishiguro. SO good. Just finished reading the Silo series. 10/10 loved it so much.

Do you have any pets? Sadly my autoimmune system says no :( But I love animals (I’m vegan).

What was your first job? Hill Street Grocer!

What are your daily news/social media habits? Habits? You mean addiction? The same as most. Instagram and Facebook are crucial to running a cinema.

Your favourite place for…

Breakfast: Little Lotus Cafe.

Lunch: Little Lotus Cafe.

Dinner: My kitchen (there’s not a lot of options for vegan in Hobart still). Did I mention I was vegan? I’m vegan.

Dream holiday destination? The Outer Hebrides. Been there twice and itching to go back.

Favourite Tasmanian secret? It’s a little water hole, though if I said where it was it wouldn’t be a secret :) Parting words? Just a quote from George Bernard Shaw: “I want to be thoroughly used up when I die, for the harder I work, the more I live. I rejoice in life for its own sake. Life is no brief candle to me.

It is a sort of splendid torch which I have got hold of for the moment and I want to make it burn as brightly as possible before handing it on to future generations.”

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BITS AND PIECES Street, Hobart), which has reopened as a much bigger lulu in the same location in the Cat & Fiddle Arcade. Keep Tassie Wild (keeptassiewild.com) have unveiled adorable new t-shirts for kids. There are two designs, Surfing Bird and Animal Friends, and 50 percent of profits are donated to local environmental organisations. Cuteness overload.

NEW NEW NEW The Mediterranean vibes are strong at the much-anticipated sister restaurant to Aloft, MARIA (Brooke Street Pier, Hobart). Head chef and co-owner Christian Ryan is teaming up with fellow co-owner Will Priestley to celebrate the flavours, textures, and friendly spirit of the European coastline. The space takes influence from the vintage luxury of 1960s Europe and opens mid-May. Delicioso! Felix (4/112 Cimitiere Street, Launceston) is an Italian-inspired espresso and wine bar.

This day and night joint has it all: Portuguese tarts, panini, pasta, and more. Bellissimo! Frogmore Creek Wine Bar (18 Hunter Street, Hobart) recently launched their new menu with a collection of smaller plates and light bites, perfect paired for an afternoon or evening of sipping wines and cocktails. The best part? Happy hour is from 4pm-6pm, with $10 wines from Tuesday to Saturday. Social enterprise Hamlet (40 Molle Street, Hobart), has launched a second kitchen space, increasing its capacity to deliver work readiness programs to people facing barriers to employment. The new space focuses on their catering menu, eyeing to expand into more corporate and social events. After a soft opening earlier this year, the cafe Southside (402 Macquarie Street, South Hobart) has officially opened. New to the Margate Train is Krankenwagen (1567 Channel Highway, Margate), home to thousands of collectibles and toys covering the world of pop culture, from Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles to Star Wars.

Cowabunga! Show off your painted nails after visiting the new Galaxy Nails (94b Hobart Road, Kings Meadow) store, the third Tassie branch for this salon chain.

Get your stretch on with yoga and athletic wear chain lululemon (10-11/51 Murray 8

TASSIE MUMS NEED YOU TO SPREAD THE WARMTH Have warm clothes to share? Local children’s charity Tassie Mums has launched its annual Coats for Kids campaign for 2024. They hope to receive 1000 donations of children’s coats and warm clothing in excellent condition to help keep disadvantaged children warm this winter. “If your child has outgrown their clean jacket or coat, please consider donating it to Tassie Mums. We will rehome it to a girl or boy in the community who needs it,” said Tassie Mums CEO, Clair Harris. The campaign, now in its sixth year, aims to collect clothing ranging in sizes 1 to 16. Tassie Mums works with over 100 social service organisations statewide to rehome quality clothes to those in need. Donations will be accepted throughout the month of May. Anyone wishing to donate can visit www. tassiemums.org. Financial donations are also welcome.

BE OPEN TO SENSORY SAFETY Autism Tasmania are calling on local businesses and organisations to commit to sensory safe hours to be more inclusive of autistic people. As part of this initiative, people can visit Autism Tasmania’s website and search for local sensory safe hours on a public database.

Businesses can register their sensory safe hours to be featured on the database.

Many Australians with autism experience atypical sensory processing, meaning some sensory details can be overwhelming or even cause pain. Some ways stores and public spaces can help reduce the sensory experience include dimming lights, lowering noise, reducing smells, and uncluttering walkways.

More information on how to take part or use this service can be found at www. autismtas.org.au.

DEVONPORT HEALTH BOOST The University of Tasmania (UTAS), in collaboration with the Devonport City Council, has initiated an educational endeavour aimed at bolstering rural healthcare training in Devonport. This project is working to create a state-of-the-art facility in East Devonport, providing training opportunities for students in nursing and similar health disciplines. Devonport Mayor Alison Jarman stressed the need for improved access to healthcare resources and education. “This initiative not only emphasises the importance of early intervention and prevention, but also aims to enhance community understanding of wellness,” Mayor Jarman said. More details will be finalised later this year.

LAUNNIE FOUNTAIN GETS FACELIFT In the name of historic preservation, City of Launceston is embarking on a restoration journey for the beloved Children’s Jubilee Drinking Fountain in City Park. Dating back to 1897, the cast iron fountain was originally erected to honour Queen Victoria’s Golden Jubilee.

Partnering with Glasgow Engineering and Castings Tasmania, the council is giving every part of the fountain the royal treatment, and any elements too damaged will be recast. The project aims to retain as much of the original structure as possible, and is expected to be completed later this year.

Progress you can feel

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BITS AND PIECES

SLEEP ROUGH IN HOBART THIS MAY SO OTHERS DON’T HAVE TO Show solidarity with the hundreds of Tasmanians who sleep rough every night by sleeping rough yourself. Sleep Rough is an annual community sleep out fundraiser event from Hobart City Mission (HCM).

The challenge will take place on Friday 24 May, and will see participants sleeping out at Princess Wharf No.1 (PW1) for the night. This is the third year of the event - with 400 people joining last year - resulting in over $220,000 raised. Thanks to these efforts, two programs, Growing Together, and Coming Home, were launched providing housing and support for people facing homelessness. This year HCM, and their major partner Clennett’s Mitre 10, hope for at least 500 people with a target of $300,000. Harvey Lennon, CEO of Hobart City Mission, said that homelessness can affect anyone, at any stage of life. “This is an issue that is hurting so many people in our community. If you haven’t been affected yourself, then chances are you know someone who has,” said Harvey. Visit www.sleeprough.com. au to sign up or donate.

COOL PENGUIN PROJECT To showcase Tasmania’s connection to the Antarctic and Southern Ocean, the Australian Antarctic Festival has partnered with the Tasmanian Men’s Shed Association. Twenty Men’s Sheds across Tasmania are taking part in the Penguin Project, crafting 12,500 30cm engineered-wood penguins to be painted by school children. The penguins will be sent to 175 schools in most Australian states and territories, and in a few countries 10

overseas. The children paint and decorate their penguin then return it, to be mounted on a platform forming part of a ‘rookery’ at Macquarie Wharf No 2 during the festival. Tasmanian Men’s Sheds Association President, Mr David Seen, said that the Men’s Sheds are thrilled to be contributing to this effort. “The men involved in this project are really enjoying the challenge because they know it not only brings a lot of joy and pleasure to the children decorating the penguins, but it also helps Tasmania promote its historic and ongoing links with the Antarctic,” he said. The penguins will be produced using a variety of methods, including hi-tech laser devices or good old-fashioned jigsaws, bandsaws and fret saws. They’ll surely be the coolest birds in town. The festival will be held across the Sullivans Cove waterfront from 22 to 25 August.

CARE BOXES FOR GRIEVING TASMANIAN FAMILIES Not-for-profit organisation, Beyond the Rainbow, provides comfort and support to grieving families who lose children through pregnancy, stillbirth and early infancy. This is in the form of care boxes that are donated to hospitals around Tasmania and are shared by nurses and midwives when these tragedies occur. The boxes include keepsake items and supportive self-care products, and are supported by Launceston General Hospital, Royal Hobart Hospital, Calvary Hobart, Hobart Private, and North West Regional Hospital. For more info and to donate, visit www.beyondtherainbowtas.org.

OLD WOOL, NEW WEAR In a leap towards sustainable fashion, Tassie clothing brand Smitten Merino has unveiled their debut collection of superfine Merino wool suits, crafted in Tasmania from rare 40-year-old wool. The story of these suits began when a farmer approached Smitten Merino about using his stash of old wool, which had been preserved for four decades. Hobart tailors then transformed this into high fashion suits. By breathing new life into 40-yearold wool, the positive environmental

impact of repurposing existing resources is highlighted, challenging the wasteful norms of fast fashion. Head over to www. smittenmerino.com to see the new suits.

SIX STOREY DEVELOPMENT APPROVED FOR CENTRAL HOBART The ex-Holden showroom on the corner of Macquarie and Barrack Streets will be demolished to make way for a six storey apartment and retail space. The $24 million development will see 56 luxury apartments built plus 61 underground car parking spaces and has been approved by Hobart City Council.

IS DICAPRIO REVIVING THE EXTINCT TASSIE THYLACINE? After shouting out the plight of the swift parrot, Hollywood megastar Leonardo DiCaprio continues his Tassie wildlife crusade, now setting his sights on the extinct Tasmanian Tiger. Teaming up with Dallas-based organisation Colossal Biosciences, Leo is helping develop de-extinction technology, sparking hope for lost species. Also backing Colossal are Aussie heartthrobs Chris and Liam Hemsworth, as well as the CIA. What a team! As Jeff Goldblum’s Dr. Ian Malcolm warns in Jurassic Park, “Life, uh, finds a way.” Make of that what you will.

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BITS AND PIECES THUMBS UP A walk on the beach during golden hour.

Finding a still-valid gift card you thought you lost years ago.

Colder temperatures mean hot chocolates and hot toddies.

CLARENCE SEEKS KEEN GARDENING VOLUNTEERS Clarence City Council is calling for gardening volunteers to help elderly residents to maintain their gardens. The council is seeking individuals skilled in mowing, whipper-snipping, pruning, or weeding who are willing to lend a hand.

Volunteers won’t need to commit a lot of time; tasks can be as simple as mowing a neighbour’s lawn once a month or dedicating some weekend hours to garden maintenance. With a growing ageing population in Clarence, many residents wish to remain in their homes but need help with garden upkeep. If you have time to spare reach out to the council at ccvs@ccc.tas.gov.au to learn more about volunteering opportunities.

UTAS SELLING SPREE IS ON In 2018 and 2019, at a time of acute housing stress, the University of Tasmania (UTAS) bought two CBD hotels, Mid City and Fountainside respectively, to be used for student accommodation.

Now these hotels, which held 174 students at their peak, have been put up for sale by UTAS. Deputy Vice-Chancellor Craig Barling said in a postCOVID world, the hotels were no longer required for student accommodation. A 422-bed facility on Melville Street, now known as Hytten Hall, opened in 2021, adding to the 1500 students currently being accommodated across the Hobart CBD. The uni believes this is enough to meet the expected demand. Proceeds of the sale of the two hotels will be 12

invested in upgrades of the University’s teaching, learning and research facilities.

It’s slow cooker season.

SUGAR REDUCTION A FANTA-sy?

As delicious and dirt cheap as they are, we all know sugary soft drinks are bad for our health. The industry has been assuring the public that sugar drinks are being reformulated with less sugar, but turns out this isn’t always the case. After reviewing the nutritional information, the Australian Medical Association (AMA) reports that the sugar content on Fanta has actually increased by 60 per cent just a few years after it was reduced! AMA are arguing for a tax on sugary drinks and say the tax would encourage manufacturers to prioritise true sugar reduction efforts, providing consumers with healthier options. One of the issues is that the industry’s sugar reduction pledge is voluntary, and only four manufacturers have signed up. An analysis from AMA showed a 20 percent health levy on sugar drinks could raise around $1 million each year, which could be invested into health campaigns.

“Research also shows there could be 4,400 fewer cases of heart disease, 16,000 fewer cases of type 2 diabetes, and 1,100 fewer strokes over 25 years if the government takes this step,” said AMA President Professor Steve Robson.

Aurora Australis sightings.

WAIT A DAY, MR POSTMAN Noticed any changes inside your letterbox lately? Australia Post has changed the frequency of letter deliveries to every second business day, so

THUMBS DOWN The existential crisis that arrives after finishing a good book.

It’s inferior avocado season.

The light at this time of year showing every dirty smudge on every window and windscreen.

Monday, Wednesday and Friday one week then Tuesday and Thursday the next week.

Australia Post says they made the changes after the Australian Government amended regulations governing the service and that it was the first step in modernising Australia Post and ‘helping to secure the financial sustainability of our business.’

MACQUARIE ST PARKING CHANGES We’ve witnessed quite a few vehicles getting towed away from the top of Macquarie Street since the parking conditions have changed there. Remember to check and double check the parking signs before you leave your vehicle as you could return to find your car removed and be given a fine of up to $400!

BITS AND PIECES MARITIME MANUSCRIPTS ON SHOW Narryna Heritage Museum recently presented two new books to the State Library of Tasmania, showcasing the journals of Captain Andrew Haig, a prominent figure in Hobart’s maritime history. Haig, an East India Company officer, arrived in Hobart in 1824 and later played a key role in the development of the Salamanca warehouses (now occupied

by Cargo and Jack Greene). The journals offer insights into colonial life and Haig’s endeavours, including the construction of his residence, Narryna, in Battery Point. Volunteers dedicated five years to transcribing the journals, preserving their original layout and providing explanatory notes for obscure references.

Titled The Colonial Journals of Captain Andrew Haig, Master Mariner and Merchant of Hobart Town, Van Diemen’s Land, 1834-1843 and 1852, the books are available in the Libraries Tasmania

lending and reference collections. Future plans involve transcribing Haig’s earlier voyages, offering glimpses into trading expeditions through the East Indies and across the Pacific.

NO ALDI LOVE FOR TASMANIA Those hoping for an Aldi store to open in Tasmania better temper those expectations. A senate inquiry on supermarket prices revealed that Aldi’s absence in Tasmania will persist. Despite operating over 590 stores nationwide since 2001, the chain has yet to expand to Tasmania and the Northern Territory. Anna McGrath, Aldi’s CEO, cited complexities in the supply chain and operating costs as barriers to entry. To put it bluntly, Tasmania is too isolated. Senators raised concerns over Tasmania’s limited competition, with 17 Coles and 32 Woolworths stores across the state, roughly equivalent to one store for every 8,957 Tasmanians,

stressing the need for increased competition to benefit consumers. No Special Buys for us.

POP IN FOR PUZZLE PARTY Tasmania is set to host its first ever State Jigsaw Puzzle Competition, courtesy of the Australian Jigsaw Puzzle Association. The event, slated for 18 May in Launceston, will have two divisions - pairs and individuals - giving participants the chance to showcase their puzzle prowess. All participants receive the same 500 piece puzzle (there’s a different puzzle for each division), and race against the clock to be the first to complete the puzzling creation. Alongside glory, there will be prizes for first, second, and third place, as well as spot prizes and raffle giveaways. As the pieces fall into place for this event, you can sign up at www. australianjigsawpuzzle.org.au.

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BITS AND PIECES high anxiety, depression, mood swings, forgetfulness or brain fog, and suicidal tendencies. “Taking action on menopause and perimenopause will help empower women and have a fairer system for all,” Professor Robson said.

BRIDGEWATER PUMP TRACK OPEN As a part of Youth Week celebrations in April, the Bridgewater Pump Track on the Bridgewater foreshore was officially opened. Designed for users of all ages, the Bridgewater Pump Track caters to a variety of wheeled activities, including bikes, skateboards, roller skates, and scooters.

Deputy Mayor Barb Curran expressed excitement about the track’s addition to the area’s recreational offerings, emphasising its role in transforming the Bridgewater Foreshore into a vibrant community hub.

Roll on!

MODERN DAY BREAKFAST CLUB Breakfast will appear on some school menus across Tasmania thanks to the Variety School Breakfast Club, which just gained a founding partner in Aurora Energy. Through this multi-year, $50,000 agreement, 12 schools will receive funding to provide nutritious breakfasts to all students five days a week. The Breakfast Club started in 2022 and has provided 30,000 breakfasts over two years. The initiative aims not only to nourish students but also to foster a sense of community by inviting parents to join in for a cup of tea and conversation too. Breakfast is important in improving student focus and behaviour. Survey results from the pilot program showed that The Breakfast Club led to a 22% decrease in negative behaviour and late 14

attendance. There are nine confirmed schools so far, with the last few still being finalised. The nine are Bagdad Primary School, Beaconsfield Primary School, East Derwent Primary, East Ulverstone Primary School, Forth Primary School, Goodwood Primary School, New Norfolk High School, Riverside Primary School, and Scottsdale High School.

CALLS FOR ACTION ON MENOPAUSE Many women with perimenopausal and menopausal symptoms in Australia find it difficult to access the support they need, says the Australian Medical Association (AMA). A third of Australian women in midlife say menopause symptoms make it hard to do daily activities, but a significant barrier is that the out-of-pocket health expenses for women are generally higher than for men. “It shouldn’t matter who you are, where you live, or what kind or job you have – women need support through perimenopause and menopause,” AMA President Professor Steve Robson said. Management of menopause is complex and individualised, so requires longer times with doctors. Australia is currently without a National Menopause Framework or Action Plan, but the AMA hopes it will be a recommendation of the Senate inquiry. This action plan would include an analysis of medical and therapeutic support to combat the symptoms of menopause including

MORE HERITAGE SITES ON THE WAY FOR LAUNCESTON The City of Launceston is engaging with residents whose properties have been identified as having heritage value.

Whether it’s a historic building, a tree, or an archaeological site, a property could hold significant value. A mail out last year notified approximately 1100 Launceston residents that their property or an element of their property had potential significance. “As Australia’s third oldest major city, Launceston holds some of our nation’s oldest built heritage, archaeology, streetscapes and historic trees, so heritage listing plays an important role in ensuring we retain our city’s character and community’s sense of place,” said City of Launceston Mayor Matthew Garwood.

You can learn more about heritage listings at www.launceston.tas.gov.au.

GOODS SHED HERITAGE LISTED In more heritage news, the Hobart Railway Goods Shed has been given a permanent listing on the Tasmanian Heritage Register, potentially making the construction of a stadium on the same site more difficult. Brett Torossi, chair of the Tasmanian Heritage Council, said the Hobart Railway Goods Shed is a notable example of the development of rail transport in Tasmania from World War 1 onwards. “It was integral to the development of Sullivans Cove and Hobart as a centre for trade, including the international export of agriculture,” she said. “The Goods Shed is rare in a Tasmanian context because while it illustrates a historical function which is no longer practised it remains an important reminder of the broader changes in the state’s freight transport – particularly the transition of land transport from railways to road-based and the increased dominance of freight shipping.”

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BITS AND PIECES FOOD HELP FOR FURRY FRIENDS Ten Lives Cat Centre has launched Meow Meals, an initiative to support feline companions and their owners. Acknowledging the hurdles confronting cat owners who might struggle to afford basic necessities for their cats, the program provides crucial cat food aid, with two weeks of free cat food. Its primary goal is to help cat owners to maintain ownership and support the welfare of their furry companions. The pressing need for such assistance has become evident with the surge in Tasmanians surrendering their cats to shelters due to the escalating cost of living. Ten Lives hopes the program will prevent around 300 cats from being surrendered. Noel Hunt, CEO of Ten Lives, said, “With Meow Meals we want to alleviate the burden on struggling pet owners and keep cats in loving homes where they belong,” said Mr Hunt. Ten Lives said all people need to do is come and request a pack, with no questions asked.

HELP FOR KIDS MENTAL HEALTH Three new Kids Hubs providing mental health support and early intervention are on their way across Tasmania, due to open later this year. The services will operate in Burnie, Bridgewater and East Tamar.

The Kids Hubs will provide free mental health and wellbeing services for children under 12 and their families, experiencing mild-to-moderate developmental, mental health, behavioural or emotional challenges. Children will not need a referral or diagnosis to receive care, which may include access to psychiatrists, psychologists, paediatricians, nurses, social workers, peer workers and Aboriginal health workers.

HOBART INCLUDED IN YOUTH GLOBAL CLIMATE GROUP Hobart has joined an international climate fund to receive funding and technical assistance to support youth-driven climate action. We’re one of 101 such cities across 38 countries to have joined Bloomberg Philanthropies’ new Youth Climate Action Fund. As part of this program, Hobart will receive US$50,000 16

(AU$75,000) to distribute as microgrants for uses such as mobilising tree-planting, public education campaigns, launching recycling or waste reduction initiatives, or participating in mitigation planning and preparedness programs. For more info head to www.hobartcity.com.au.

STAY HEALTHY FOR WINTER The Department of Health is advising Tasmanians to prepare for an increase in respiratory illnesses like Influenza, COVID-19, and RSV this winter. To stay protected, they recommend getting vaccinated against these illnesses. Flu shots are advised annually for everyone aged six months and older, while COVID-19 boosters are recommended every 12 months for adults, and every six months for older adults and those severely immunocompromised. Vaccines are available at GPs and local pharmacies. Other precautions include staying home when sick and practising good hygiene. The COVID@ homeplus program will now be known as Care@home, now including care for other respiratory infections, not just COVID. To enrol, call 1800 973 363. For more details, visit www.health.tas.gov.au.

OH DEER: ANIMAL CULL TO CONTROL NUMBERS IN TASSIE As cute as Bambi is, deer are an introduced threat to the Tasmanian ecosystem. As part of an operation to eradicate and control the deer population in the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, the Tasmanian Parks and Wildlife

Service are conducting an aerial shooting program. It uses thermal technology to detect and track deer from a helicopter. The focused areas are the Walls of Jerusalem National Park and the Central Plateau Conservation Area. The deer control area will be closed to all users until 2 June 2024. Animal welfare is cited as a priority, and a qualified veterinarian will be engaged to independently oversee the program.

SECRET STONE ON THE WAY If you’ve spent some time around Berriedale Bay lately, you might have caught sight of a new art installation in the works, two straight lines of rock pointing into the water. This is the Stone Sea Passage, a tight passageway into the sea between two walls of stone. The installation was designed by renowned Scotland-based artist Andy Goldsworthy, who produces sculptures and land art in a mix of natural and urban settings. He credits MONA’s David Walsh for making it possible. Expect MONA to supply more information about the installation when it’s ready for the public to take a closer look.

Cold weather never stops a

Tassie adventure

Lake Binney Corner Campground Scan the QR code to discover Hydro Tasmania’s free campgrounds, just like this one.

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Cedar Cottage Meander. Pic: Jess Bonde

HAPPY OFF SEASON As Tasmanians know, there is something incredibly special about our island as the weather gets cooler. We know how to be ‘winter people’, and we do it well.

The Off Season is an opportunity for you to enjoy your own backyard with experiences unique to our winter. From exploring caves, cold water dipping and climbing snowy highlands, to indulging in truffle hunts and uncovering new towns, accommodations and eateries, this year’s Off Season provides over 500 distinctive experiences across our state, including Tasmania’s many lively winter events and festivals.

There really is no better place to be than Tasmania this winter. In this month’s edition of The Hobart Magazine, we are excited to share a glimpse of the diverse offerings this year’s Off Season presents. For further inspiration, visit discovertasmania.com.au/off-season to start planning your own winter holiday in Tasmania. Happy Off Season!

What’s your tip for becoming a winter person? Embrace the elements; celebrate the fresh chilled air on your face, take those colder water dips, get amongst the many festivals and events, savour cosy days by the fire - and of course, make sure you have a ‘Tasmanian Tuxedo’ to enjoy in comfort and warmth! > Sarah Clark, CEO, Tourism Tasmania

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My childhood winters spent on the north west coast of Tassie were windswept and wild, with strong memories of afternoon drives to find snow, invigorating bushwalks and hot soup.

Those early years cemented my lifelong love of winter, one I hope to instill in my own kids.

We’re thrilled to partner with Tourism Tasmania this Off Season, sharing 24 pages of stories and a winter events calendar. This is our take on how to become a winter person in Tassie - through interesting people, journeys, events and festivals, as well as exceptional offers from tourism businesses across the island.

Plot out your 2024 winter. And while you’re exploring, take a snap and tag #TheHobartMag, #TassieOffSeason and #DiscoverTasmania to share your Off Season experiences.

What’s your tip for becoming a winter person? One word: layers!

Layers will take you from hiking to a glass of wine by the fire with ease.

Also, lose any layers of stress you might have this winter - shed them on a cold water plunge (my favourite place for that is over the back of kunanyi / Mount Wellington) or wash them away in a beautiful tub soak. > Stephanie Williams, editor, The Hobart Magazine Created in partnership with Tourism Tasmania

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LOCAL PEOPLE

NADINE ROWELL Picture: Kristina Vackova Each year, the Festival of Voices brings utter joy and harmony to Tasmania through a series of communal singing events and top-class performances.

There’s something for everyone - even those of us who are tone deaf. Nadine Rowell is the general manager of the festival, although you might also come across her riding the bike trails or climbing a mountain in Tasmania’s wilderness.

What is it about singing with others that makes us feel so good? I’m one of those people who says “I can’t sing”, but after my first festival I learnt that anyone can sing. I love that the Festival of Voices gives anybody an opportunity to sing, no matter what your level. For me, I’m not even a shower singer. But I did find I loved a good ol’ group singalong with a wine in my hand. The energy we draw together is amazing, the happiness it brings and the sense of unity.

What has been your absolute favourite Festival of Voices gig? The first ‘Tasmanian Songbook’ in 2021 at the Theatre Royal. It was an incredible lineup of talented Tasmanian musicians sharing Tasmanian songs. The audience wasn’t quite prepared for the energy this event presented and the musicians got a full standing house ovation at the end that seemed to go on forever.

What do you love doing outside of work? I’m firstly a mum of two gorgeous boys! I also love being outdoors. I get away on adventures as much as possible.

This could be anything from doing laps at Maydena Bike Park (an 80 minute, 85km drive west of Hobart), climbing mountains, planning girls trips to hike or ride somewhere fun or taking the kids camping, hiking or biking. I also love to snowboard, but that’s a little harder to 20

do in Tasmania. I’m very blessed to have explored many parts of the world and am always dreaming of the next adventure.

Favourite podcast or TV show? That’s a hard one as I just don’t have time to watch TV or listen to podcasts for the most part. But when I do have a chance, I really enjoy watching a good series on Netflix like, most recently, Boy Swallows Universe.

Secret vice? 95% dark chocolate.

What are you reading now? I love reading true stories. I’m currently reading about the Vietnam War and the mass baby orphan evacuation, Operation Babylift, where babies were airlifted out of Vietnam and adopted by American and Australian families.

What was your first job? Ha ha, I was always pretty keen on being independent and earning my own money. I ran out to the bread man who delivered bread in his truck when I was 12 years old and asked him for a job. Lovely guy, he took me on and I started being a bread runner. When I was 14 I was working my second job in Kmart.

What are your daily news/social media habits? ABC updates via the app on my phone, probably too much bike riding on Instagram and music industry updates.

Who do you admire? I admire individuals like Bob Brown and other climate change advocates for their tireless efforts in raising awareness, promoting sustainability, and fighting for the health of our planet. I also deeply admire my Mum, she is amazing with my boys and is always there for me.

Your favourite place for…

Breakfast: Ginger Brown, South Hobart.

Lunch: I love supporting various cafes around Hobart like Plain Jane in Moonah; Hamlet, at the entrance of the Hobart rivulet walking track - I love what they are about, helping to give opportunities to those who are living with disability; Bear with Me, Straight Up. Dinner: Bar Wa Izakaya, North Hobart.

What’s your tip for becoming a winter person? We are so lucky to live in such a gorgeous temperate climate and experience really distinct seasons. Living here helps you adjust to the changes of seasons slowly. For those visiting, a tip would have to be that when it says in winter it will reach a top of 14c today, it will only hit that for 30 minutes in the middle of the day! A hot tip for anyone - layers, lots of layers and make sure you get out to enjoy Australia’s leading singing celebration with Festival of Voices, that will warm you up!

Festival of Voices celebrates the transformative power of singing that brings people together.

Inspired by the age-old tradition of gathering around a fire, this Off Season event series has become Australia’s leading singing celebration. The 2024 program, now in its 19th year, reaches many pockets of the state, including Launceston, the east coast, Huon, Port Arthur and New Norfolk, with something to suit all musical tastes and budgets. Events are held from 28 June – 7 July, and tickets and more information can be found at festivalofvoices.com.

LOCAL PEOPLE

SIERRA BLAIR Picture: Dearna Bond Tasmania’s wines are not just world class - our local industry also lures the best winemakers in the world to our little island, like Sierra Blair at Ghost Rock in north west Tasmania.

Where did you grow up and where do you live now? I grew up in northern California, in wine country. I’ve been living in Australia on and off for the last nine years, and moved permanently to Tasmania five years ago.

Tell us a little about your work. Work as a winemaker is both varied and cyclical throughout the year. I love the many roles I get to play. One day I’m in tradie clothes, forklift grease on my hands, trying to fix something. The next day I could be in a nice outfit, pouring and talking about wines and eating great food at a beautiful venue.

What makes Tasmanian wine so good?

The climate. There are very few true cool climate wine regions in the world, we are one of them. Cool climates make better wines (in my opinion).

Where did the name Ghost Rock come from? This is an interesting story that the cellar door team is better at telling than I am, so you’ll have to pay us a visit to find out!

What’s your favourite wine? Depends on my mood, the weather, what I’m eating, how I’m feeling...I love all varieties but Pinot Noir and Chardonnay are two I’ll never tire of.

Favourite spot to enjoy a glass of that wine? On my deck looking at the Bass Strait, or at Devonport’s new wine bar Pam’s Bottles and Cups.

What do you love doing outside

of work? I love gardening, cooking, foraging, fermenting and preserving. I’m a big foodie. I need something to go with all that wine!

Who do you admire? Friends of mine and people I know who have kids, run businesses, have social lives, somehow do it all...the superhumans.

Favourite podcast or TV show? Hard one, but I think the only show I could watch multiple times is The Office (the American version).

Secret vice? Mezcal. But that’s not really a secret!

What are you reading now? In classic form, I’ve got about five books on the go, all nonfiction. Someone please send me a novel!

What was your first job? I think I was 14, bussing tables at a restaurant called the Western Boot Steakhouse.

What are your daily news/social media habits? Coffee in the morning, scanning headlines and diving deeper into anything that interests me. I try not to waste too much time on social media.

Your favourite place for…

Breakfast: Trophy Room in Hobart.

Lunch: Timbre Kitchen in Legana.

Dinner: Tom McHugos in Hobart.

Favourite team? I’ve wanted to follow AFL, but not having grown up here I

never felt a strong allegiance to any one team. That’s changed now, I’m all in for the Tasmania Devils!

Favourite Tasmanian secret? The most beautiful swimming hole in the river mouth near my house. Though I’m keeping that one a secret.

What’s your biggest tip for becoming a winter person? Get outside in the daytime, it’s often beautiful and the sun can be surprisingly warming. Enjoy the calm and less crowds. At night there’s nothing like a well cooked meal, a wood fire, and a glass of your favourite libation.

I’m looking forward to it!

Want to experience Ghost Rock for yourself this Off Season? Visit the vineyard which overlooks Bass Strait or experience the ultimate in relaxation and indulgence with a stay at Ghost Rock’s Vineyard House. On your first night, settle in with an in-house dinner of slow cooked lamb and crispy potatoes.

Wander over to the Cellar Door and Eatery the next day, for a wine tasting and two-course lunch, plus enjoy complimentary wine and cheese for an evening by the outdoor fire. For more information visit ghostrock.com.au.

Created in partnership with Tourism Tasmania

For more discovertasmania.com.au/off-season

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BITS AND PIECES

TAKE WOMBAT ON A CUTE WALK TOWARD REHABILITATION If you could go for a stroll with any native Tasmanian creature, what would you choose? We’d choose a wombat, hands-down. They may not give us a cuddle but they’re super cute and surely less dangerous than most of the other options. At East Coast Nature World (natureworld.com.au) rescue wombats, Jenny and George, need daily exercise as part of their rehabilitation and enrichment program - they love their humans and will follow you wherever you want to go. This one hour exclusive experience is available every morning at 9:30am, $92 each person for up to six people.

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WAUBS WORLD’S BEST WHISKY Congrats to the Polmear family, of Tasmanian whisky brand Waubs Harbour Distillery, who recently brought home a couple of gold medals from the prestigious World Whiskies Awards. Based in Bicheno, Waubs Harbour won gold for ‘Small Batch Single Malt Whisky, 12 years & Under’ with their Waubs Original drop. Their Founder’s Reserve Whisky won gold in the ‘Small Batch Single Malt Whisky, No age statement’ category. The family had a vision - to create a maritime whisky, connected to their Aboriginal heritage, located on the Tasmanian ocean.

They now create world class products at the converted old oyster hatchery at the gulch at Bicheno (which used to be called Waubs Harbour, after palawa woman Wauba Debar), so safe to say their vision has come true. Tours and tastings can be booked at waubsharbourwhisky.com.

CELEBRATE WILLIE SMITH’S FINAL MID-WINTER FEST Big Willie will burn for one last time at this year’s final Mid-Winter Fest at Willie Smith’s Apple Shed in the Huon Valley. After 11 years of bringing life, joy and community togetherness to the depths of the Tassie Off Season, the team behind the festival invites revellers to join them for one last big wassail. Expect the usual terrific costumes, traditional Morris dancing, delicious local food and, of course, cider of all varieties plus plenty of things for the kids to do. Friday 12 July (5pm-11pm) and Saturday 13 July (12pm11pm) at Willie Smith’s Apple Shed in Grove. To find out more about the final festival visit williesmiths.com.au.

A SMALL BUT MIGHTY DARK MOFO Meanwhile, Tasmania’s biggest winter festival, Dark Mofo, is taking a bit of a gap year. Despite announcing that the festival is on hiatus for 2024, DarkLab have delivered a decent lineup of events and gigs to coax us out from under the blankie on the couch. ARIA-winning rap artist Genesis Owusu kicks things off on opening weekend at The Odeon, shortly followed by Aoteroa / New Zealand’s

Marlon Williams who will be on his first solo Australian tour in a decade. The Winter Feast will feed thousands of revellers over the two weeks. The nudie rudies will get their cold plunge on at the Nude Solstice Swim on 21 June at Long Beach.

The annual Mona Gala is on 14 June - usually a secretive invite-only affair, this year you can buy your way in with a limited allocation of tickets available for $400. Mona’s new major exhibition, Namedropping, opens to the public the next day. Through the placement of 200 artworks (some from Mona’s collection, some new commissions and some borrowed) the show will question what status means and how we use it. Finish it all off with the mega dance party that is Night Shift on 21 and 22 June In The Hanging Garden. More info at darkmofo.net.au.

TASMANIAN TOURISM WINNERS BRING THE BLING HOME Tasmanian tourism operators continue to turn heads and impress, with some recently bringing home a whole collection of bling from the QANTAS Australian Tourism Awards. Winners were spread across accommodation, adventure, experiences and hospitality. Gold medals went to wukulina Walk (Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island Tourism Experience category), Pennicott Wilderness Journeys (Major Tour and Transport Operators), On Board (New Tourism Business), Air Adventure Golf (Tour & Transport Operators), Launceston’s The Dragonfly Inn (Hosted Accommodation), Grain of the Silos (Tourism Restaurants and Catering Services) and Bangor Vineyard Shed (Tourism Wineries, Distilleries and Breweries). Silver medals went to Ship Inn Stanley (4-4.5 Star Deluxe Accommodation), Peppers Silo Hotel (Business Event Venues) and The Truffle Farm (Excellence in Food Tourism). The Granary took away bronze for SelfContained Accommodation. Hearty congratulations to all!

Created in partnership with Tourism Tasmania

For more discovertasmania.com.au/off-season

Mona Gala

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FEATURE

The Off Season, with fewer crowds and clear nights, is a terrific time to be dazzled and humbled by the epic starscapes. Tasmania is fast becoming a haven for dark sky enthusiasts - with swathes of uninhabited wilderness and far less light pollution than other states, the island is one of the best places to enjoy views of the night sky.

Dark Sky Photography Would-be astro-photographers are invited to an evening of photography with leading Tasmanian astronomer, Dr Martin George, at Table House Farm (tablehousefarm.com.au) in the north west on 11 June, as part of Permission to Trespass (northwesttasmania.com. au/permissiontotrespass). From the farm, with hopefully clear and dazzling night skies over Table Cape, Martin will demonstrate how to photograph the moon and the stars. Not intended for complex, high-tech photography, it’s an opportunity for amateur photographers to learn the basics. Bring your cameras, tripod and warm winter woollies, but the wine will be provided.

Capture the Aurora Aurora chasers, take note - book a room at Ross Motel (rossmotel.com.au) during winter to receive a complimentary and comprehensive guide on capturing the Aurora. Written by local professional Aurora photographer Scott Bennett, the guide will give you insider tips on the best spots in Ross to view it from and detailed instructions on how to get incredible shots of this iconic light display.

See the Stars from Bed Imagine what the sky would look like if you could just remove the roof from above your bed at night. That’s exactly what you can do at the historic Old 24

Bishop’s Quarters (bishopsquarters. com.au) property in Sandy Bay, where the retractable roof above your head can reveal the wonders of the winter night sky. Enjoy a soak in the outdoor copper bath under the stars, all whilst sitting less than a kilometre from the Hobart CBD. Creature Spotlighting As darkness descends on Thornby Farm (thornbyfarmaccommodation.com.au) in the Meander Valley, rug up and venture out from the 1840s farmhouse on a guided spotlight tour in search of local wildlife.

Return to the warmth of a crackling fire pit and enjoy toasting marshmallows and a hot chocolate under the open sky as this working farm rests.

Telescopic Views On King Island, with its expansive ocean views, the dark night sky unfolds. At Yambacoona House (yambacoonahouse. com) the hosts will provide you with telescopes and other viewing equipment to really get the most out of the starry, starry night. Venture out for nighttime walks in clearly marked lanes, beside lagoons, and through the countryside, seeing nocturnal delights along the way. Then relax by the big warm fires back at the house.

Stargaze with a Guru Take your stargazing to the next level at the remarkable and isolated The Keep (thekeeptasmania.com.au), where your luxurious northern stay includes a chat with a night sky guru via Zoom. There’s

also top-notch stargazing equipment, indulgent provisions, mulled wine and hot chocolate.

Stargaze in the Bush Head to Bay of Fires Bush Retreat (bayoffiresbushretreat.com.au) for some uninterrupted stargazing by the bell tents.

Bask in the crisp, clear winter nights by the fire as you indulge in local food and wine before resting your head in their bell tents, bunkhouse or king room.

Glow Show The inimitable Dr Lisa Gershwin, mega glow enthusiast and scientist, leads a nightly Glow Show Tasmania tour (glowshowtas.com) of the Hobart rivulet with a difference. On this tour, you’ll find animals, plants and fungi that glow in the dark beyond the city lights. You’ll never look at the well-loved track the same way again.

FEATURE

OUTDOOR BATHING: A BODY OF WATER FOR EVERY BODY Tasmanians are steadily embracing the water (be it cold, hot, salty, fresh, flowing or still) year round. Whether it’s the invigoration of a cold plunge, a hot soak for weary muscles after uphill treks or a relaxing immersion after a day of indulgence, there’s a body of water for every body.

Hot Tubs in the Bush A working farm still run by the descendants of convict John West Turvey, who arrived in Van Diemen’s Land in 1823 and settled near Buckland ten years later, Twamley Farm (twamleyfarm.com.au) offers historic digs with modern indulgences. During the Off Season, enjoy cosy hot choccie with toasted marshmallows before a long soak in their wood fired cedar hot tub - which takes 24 hours to heat up over the fire. The brand-spankingnew Arden Retreat (ardenretreat.com. au) represents a quintessential Tasmanian luxury experience: local food and wine, hot and cold immersion and indulgence experience chilled air on your face while you soak in a beautiful wood fired hot tub, a record spinning as you sip mulled wine under a starlit Tassie sky. Wake up all the senses with a dip in the lake, or just relax in a private cedar hot tub nestled on the edge of world heritage-listed wilderness at Cedar Cottage (cedarcottagemeander. com) in Meander. The eco credentials of this luxe cottage are legit: of the 54 acres that the cottage sits on, 50 are dedicated to native forest regeneration. Unwind in the jacuzzi with speccy views of Mt Roland at the cosy Eagles Nest Retreat (eaglesnestretreat.com.au), a cattle and

truffle farm. Pour yourself a glass of pinot and indulge in your picnic platter as the sun sets, then submerge into an aromatic outdoor spa bath as you gaze at the stars above.

Sauna in Style All aboard! Kuuma (kuuma.com.au) - Australia’s first fully mobile floating sauna boat - takes visitors on southern Tasmania’s most stunning pristine waters.

The Kuuma team also offers a unique wood fired sauna experience in Miena, where it’s not unusual to be sweating it out whilst looking out at snow. Floating Sauna Lake Derby (floatingsauna.com. au) offers respite for sore bike riding muscles or an alternative for those who don’t love two wheeling. Or plunge into the nearby Cascade or Ringarooma Rivers. Ride, sauna, swim and repeat, then crash out in comfort in the wood fireside tub at heritage-listed Derby Bank House (derbybankhouse.com.au), a traditional B&B just a five minute ride from the lake. Their six-foot tub is nestled under a picturesque old cherry tree with twinkling fairy lights: bliss.

Have the Beach to Yourself With a combined coastline of over 3000 kilometres, you’re spoilt when it comes to finding a spot for a quiet beach dip in Tasmania. With access to three private beaches you’ll discover serenity at Edge of the Bay Resort (edgeofthebay.com. au) on the Freycinet Peninsula. Your two-person suite, just steps away from those beaches, offers the perfect escape.

Take on the breezy trails or enjoy a polar

bear dip with unparalleled views of The Hazards mountain range. You might even spot the rare and mesmerising Aurora Australis (Southern Lights) from your private deck. If you prefer things a little more stripped back (pun intended, if you dare), try the glamping on offer at Little Beach Co (littlebeachco.com.au) at the Chain of Lagoons on the east coast.

Join the exclusive (or bonkers?) Brass Monkeys Swim Club and submerge yourself in Maria Island’s invigorating crystal clear waters this Off Season. Just nab a ‘Plunge Permit’ when you book your ferry ticket with Encounter Maria (encountermaria.com.au), share a pic of your plunge on Instagram and defrost with a hot chocolate on your return.

Beautiful Baths A shipping container never looked so good: CNTNR (cntnr.com.au) is a converted 40ft container of luxury under the trees by the Scamander River, with the cutest retro pink bathtub sunken into the private deck with just you, the birds and water flowing by. Hunter Huon Valley (hunterhuonvalley.co) was built for winter, with three architect-designed luxury cabins surrounded by rugged Tasmanian bushland overlooking the Huon Valley. Slow down and draw a long bath in the deep built-in stone tub then relax by the roaring fire with a Tasmanian whisky flight and cheese board.

Created in partnership with Tourism Tasmania

For more discovertasmania.com.au/off-season

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WHAT’S ON THIS OFF SEASON 12

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Join an embroidery class at Yarns Artwork in Silk Deloraine, whether you’re a newbie or would like a refresher. Bookings essential. Other dates available.

On the Bicheno coastline, enjoy a dusk whisky tasting at Waubs Harbour Distillery, on Saturdays during June and July. Bookings essential.

Enjoy a double-bill ballet performance of Forest Song and Don Quixote at Launceston’s Princess Theatre, from the Grand Kyiv Ballet of Ukraine.

5pm start.

Join Fork it Farm at Lebrina for a feast in the paddock. Enjoy course after course showcasing pork, matched with wine, beer and cider.

Monthly until October.

Launceston becomes the stage for the Australian Musical Theatre Festival for the next five days. Enjoy musical performances, workshops and talks with Australia’s musical stars.

Throughout June, access usually off-limits farms as part of Permission to Trespass, a monthlong celebration of north west coast stories and food. Shows, feasts, and ghost tours abound.

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The exhibition ‘Light’ opens on the winter solstice at the Huon Pine Shop and Gallery in Strahan, inviting participating artists to reflect on the theme of light. On until 19 July.

Experience the ultimate test of grit amidst the wild beauty of Derby in The Devils Cardigan, a challenging mountain bike race. Choose from 52km and 106km races.

Enjoy intimate chamber music performed by the Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra at the historic Woolmers Estate in Longford.

11am start, book ahead.

Love Lucy Boots Wine Room in Westbury is hosting an intimate Winter Solstice Long Table Dinner. Local produce, storytelling under the stars and warming fires.

Hobart is surrounded by song for the fantastic Festival of Voices.

Australia’s leading singing celebration, the program includes concerts, classes, and singalongs. Runs until 7 July.

Head to Rathmore for a Magical Starry Sky Gazing Wool Shed Dinner with astronomy gurus. Feast on Rathmore lamb with mulled wine and local drinks and produce.

Also on 5 August.

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Get ready for an electrifying Festival of Voices performance by Montaigne, one of Australia’s most captivating artists, at the Odeon Theatre, Hobart.

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

Hadley’s Art Prize is awarded to the best Australian landscape art. Visit the exhibition of finalists until 25 August at Hadley’s Orient Hotel.

Willie Smith’s Mid-Winter Fest will be held over two days for the final time.

Journey to the Huon Valley to celebrate pagan traditions with a big rock-out party.

Today it’s a Shellebration at Melshell Oyster Shack, Dolphin Sands.

Your ticket includes lunch, bus transfers, live music and shucking demonstrations. Enjoy oyster dishes, some cooked over fire.

Feast winter style at The Ducks Bar & Restaurant at Rosevears daily until the 21st.

With local ingredients prepared over flames, fire pots, music and starry skies galore.

Come out of your shell at the Tassie Scallop Fiesta at Bridport.

Learn about local maritime heritage and indulge in exquisite winter seafood at the same time.

The Devonport Jazz Festival celebrates its 20th year with traditional jazz to modern jazz, and latin to funk fusion performances, across surprising venues, until the 28th.

Get whisky’ed off your feet as Tasmania celebrates Tasmanian Whisky Week from 5-11 August. Delve into quality whisky and spirits, with the best Tasmania has to offer.

Want more to explore and experience this Off Season?

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From today until 16 June check out the Bay of Fires Winter Arts Festival. The gala opening is on tonight, then enjoy the work of local artists, explore arts trails, and take a plunge during the Dawn Dash and Splash swim.

JULY

Enjoy firecooked lamb, truffles and flaming desserts with a side of platypus-spotting at historic property Rathmore at Hollow Tree.

Dress code: Tasmanian tuxedo (a.k.a. puffer jacket).

A beguiling mix of history, architecture, and performance, Ghostlight is your chance to tour behind-the-scenes at Launceston’s historic Princess Theatre.

Sip the night away at Launceston’s Alchemy Bar and Restaurant. For one Friday a month this winter, set the dancefloor on fire to an epic DJ lineup led by 360°.

Dark Mofo’s Winter Feast returns to Princes Wharf 1, with the best of the best curation of Tasmanian food, wine and spirits.

Thursday to Sunday for two weeks.

Bicheno plays host to a free family-friendly event, Bicheno Beams, a laser light show synchronised to music.

6pm nightly from 29 June until 20 July.

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Spend a weekend at Ross Motel and learn the ancient art of basket weaving.

Includes accommodation, materials, lunch and morning tea. Also held 29-30 Jun and 31 Aug-1 Sep.

Unleash your inner science lover at the Beaker Street Festival. This week-long love letter to science and art includes exhibitions, talks, and other scientifically-proven fun activities.

Unsettling Queenstown at Design Tasmania, Launceston is on.

Haunted by a copper replica of the belvedere of Empire Hotel, it explores the dark magnetism of Tassie history and landscapes.

The Heritage & Bullock Festival is a two-day showcase of Oatlands’ unique culture and history, from traditional bullock teams to vintage car displays.

The intriguing Fancy Granny Secret Supper Club is on at The Bowmont, Franklin.

Three courses of Huon Valley’s finest produce and wine. Also 8 June, 17 August.

Celebrate one of life’s greatest pleasures, chocolate. Held in Latrobe, the Chocolate Winterfest hosts over 40 delicious events - from high tea to tastings and more.

Part of the Australian Musical Theatre Festival, comedian Queenie van de Zandt puts her fate in your hands in this Choose Your Own Musical Adventure experience at The Gorge Restaurant.

The Mona Gala is a lavish night of art, charity, food, booze, and performance. Mona’s new exhibition, Namedropping, also opens, questioning the nature of status via more than 200 objects.

Uncover stories of convict resistance and rebellion through a first-of-itskind digital exhibition, Unshackled, at the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery, Hobart running until 28 July.

In collaboration with Tasman Sea Salt, Mayfield Estate is hosting Winter Feast on the Beach, seasonal produce paired with salt and wines, cooked over fire beachside.

Ditch the bathers and show the world your bits at the Dark Mofo Nude Solstice Swim.

Jump in with your fellow nudists then warm up by the fire pits on the beach.

Hop aboard for a Christmasin-July-themed West Coast Wilderness Railway journey, from 1 July until 21 July.

Lynchford Station is adorned in decorations, plus festive nibbles and mulled wine.

AUGUST

Shrapnel is an evening of storytelling, music, and yearning to find the flamenco dancer inside, as part of Australian Musical Theatre Festival. At the Royal Oak Hotel, Launceston.

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Hear those engines roar! The 2024 NED Whisky Tasmania SuperSprint returns to Symmons Plains for a two-day motor racing love fest.

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Don your puffer jacket and learn what Australians do in the driest, windiest, coldest place on earth. The Australian Antarctic Festival unfolds over four days in Hobart.

Background photo: Kelvedon Beach by Remi Chauvin

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Details subject to change. Check in with individual events for further details.

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

FEATURE

BERT SPINKS Bert Spinks, aka Storyteller Spinks, is a Tasmanian poet, writer, bushwalking guide and storyteller who lives in a train carriage in the bush. Like many artists in Tasmania, Bert finds space and solace during the Off Season and considers it the perfect time to write.

Where did you grow up? I grew up in Beaconsfield. I have heaps of winter memories - playing footy on frosty grounds, walking to the bus stop in short shorts, getting home near the winter solstice when it was already close to dark.

One of my favourite games, with my brother and a cousin, was to try and peel the largest segments of ice off puddles and our bird-baths - and then smash them into hundreds of pieces (sometimes on each other’s heads)! I feel like we inadvertently toughened ourselves up in those days.

Where is home now? I live in a little train carriage in a forest in northern Tassie. I don’t like to blab on about it too much because it shelters and supports some of my deepest dreams. But stays warm in winter with a little woodfire. It’s a great place to watch birds, and pademelons greet me every morning. One of my artistic practices is based in the carriage - the podcast In a Train Carriage, Going Nowhere - for which I set up a small field recorder and tell meandering stories, partly about life in the bush but also much about other far-reaching topics. It’s been a perfect space for writing over the past years.

What does the Off Season in Tasmania mean to you? Winter is the chance to move slower, turn inwards, eat richer food, drink darker beer - and especially, for me, to write poems. For me, the shorter days and starry nights give a great opportunity to think deeply and dream a lot. Much of the contemplation that’s needed to be a writer comes from 28

winter hours. I tend to be a beach person in winter, which may sound strange but probably has similarities to the traditional life of the first Tasmanians. Swimming in rivers and lakes is pretty gutsy in the winter months, but some of our salt-water swimming spots are perfect in winter. I also love to be in the midst of moss when it’s been wet - mosses are such interesting plants, so full of life and worthy of a closer look.

What is it about Tasmania - or Tasmanians - that leads to such rich stories coming out of the island? I have long held that there are stories in every square inch of Tassie! So much about our island is different, from geology to human history. It’s special to see how all the different elements relate with each other.

I like bushwalking because it brings me in contact with more of the non-human world. Walking itself seems to stimulate my subconscious to come up with new stories and see new connections between ideas. I can’t imagine being creative without bushwalking.

Should some stories remain untold? I reckon most stories should be told, but it’s important to get the timing right.

Tassie storytelling often is laconic, and I think many of the best yarns don’t like to be rushed. Again, this is one of winter’s potential lessons: take your time, don’t force too many issues, let your thoughts mature, always ponder as many viewpoints as you can and be considerate with whatever you’re up to.

What’s your advice for people who have a story to tell but don’t know where to start? For those who have stories to tell and aren’t sure where to start, it might be useful to try and whittle them down to a small piece. Sometimes we want to blurt out a lot - maybe it means we don’t feel very well listened-to, or we suddenly find that each passage in our life story leads to

another. It takes a lot of willpower to craft a story into its crucial features. And hard work! I really love haiku poems: they can be a great way to reduce a story into the smallest possible parts. From there, of course, you might develop the story into any other genre.

What do you love about the Off Season? It can be a wonderful time to develop a passionate interest in something. It’s a time to pick up a new skill or deep-dive into a subject. You might madly follow a football team or get into family history. I’ve spent a bit of time in Iceland, where winters are longer and much more severe: their storytelling heritage, which lives strong today, comes from winters yarning about the legends who lived before them. So winter is the time to perfect a story and think about history too, to put the events that have shaped your identity into words. It can also be a chance to step back from what’s expected of us (and what we expect of ourselves) and try a different rhythm. We can be fooled into thinking. The Tassie winter sometimes gives you little opportunity to do that. Sometimes there’s nothing to do but sit at the window and watch rain come pouring down. Or light a smoky fire in the backyard and sip stout till the stars come out.

For more information about Bert’s upcoming performances and work visit facebook.com/storytellerspinks.

Listen to Bert’s podcast In a Train Carriage, Going Nowhere on most podcast platforms or head on over to storytellerspinks.substack.com.

GEAR UP FOR EPIC EXPLOITS

ADVENTURE

In winter, the adventure in Tasmania goes up a notch. Maybe harder, but definitely rewarding. As snow blankets kunanyi / Mount Wellington and winds sweep across coastlines, layers of gear are added. The Off Season isn’t just about cosying up it’s about cranking up that adventure dial.

Gnarly Biking Trails Winter in Tasmania means a change in conditions perfect for mountain biking.

Ride the professionally crafted trails with Meadowbank MTB (meadowbankmtb. com.au) in the Derwent Valley where thrilling jumps and descents await. For a luxurious mountain biking adventure, take a ride with Blue Derby Pod Rides (bluederbypodsride.com.au) for a multi-day tour, going to bed each night in your very own pod within the trees.

Can’t get enough? Cruise down kunanyi / Mount Wellington on an e-bike with Tasmanian Mountain Bike Adventures (tasmba.com.au) - it’s downhill fun all the way to the bottom.

Alpine Adventures Cradle Mountain has got to be one of the most beautiful places on the planet. From moss-covered rainforests and deep gorges to gleaming white peaks, it’s the definition of Tasmanian wilderness. But it’s not just a pretty face - it’s an adventure playground too. Lace up your boots and explore the numerous hikes, or embark

on a kayak journey on Dove Lake with Cradle Mountain Canyons (cradlemountaincanyons.com.au).

Caves Are Calling Tassie is a mecca for caving. Overcome any fears of the dark and tight spaces - beneath the surface lies a whole new world waiting to be explored. In winter, Tasmanian caves become an incredible water world, with pools and waterfalls.

Get a proper look with Wild Cave Tours (wildcavetours.com), who will guide you safely through chambers under the Great Western Tiers.

Sled Dog Season Welcome to Lonnavale in the Huon Valley, where Siberian Huskies reign supreme and the adventure is fur real.

Climb aboard with Sled Dog Adventures (sleddogadventurestasmania.com.au) and let these majestic canines whisk you away on a thrilling journey through narrow bush trails. The cold will attack your cheeks as you zoom through the forest for a white-knuckle ride. It’s a paw-some experience that the Huskies are barking mad for.

Ski Ya Later For snow-sational thrills, take the journey to Ben Lomond Alpine Resort (benlomondalpineresort.com.au). After conquering the steep, winding Jacob’s

Ladder road, you’ll find yourself in a winter wonderland, a quaint ski village amongst the snow-capped mountains.

Whether you’re a rookie or a pro, hit the slopes for skiing, snowboarding and tobogganing action. Wrap up your snow day with hot chocolate and s’mores in one of the mountain cabins, and drift off to sleep still feeling like you’re flying down the snowy slopes.

Flights Over Freycinet On the rugged and beautiful east coast lies Freycinet National Park. Granite mountains surround sparkling blue bays and picture-perfect white beaches - even in winter. Freycinet Air Tasmania (freycinetair.com.au) will take you on a helicopter flight over Wineglass Bay, without the doors! Feel the rush of fresh winter air as you take in the finest views this side of the world has to offer.

Created in partnership with Tourism Tasmania

For more discovertasmania.com.au/off-season

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ART

There is so much to choose from all corners of Tasmania, from live music and exhibitions to bushwalking and art retreats, to storytelling, classical music and even a performance in a cave: nothing is off limits in winter.

Shutter Happy with Steam Combine historic steam trains, incredible winter night skies and photography with the West Coast Wilderness Railway’s (wcwr.com.au) Steam Under the Stars session. Trains are magical at night - and this night train photography has been inspired by US photographer O. Winston Link. The small group evening class steps inside the maintenance facility for the opportunity to capture striking black and white images of locomotives in steam, just as Link did.

From Nature to Canvas Learn how to paint Tasmanian flora and fauna with a local artist so you can take your travels home on canvas. Lovely Launceston store The Hibiscus Boutique hosts a series of two hour workshops this winter, so you can learn to paint our native Fagus tree or perhaps a native hen.

Email hibiscusboutiquetas@gmail.com to make a booking.

Post Your Stories in Stanley Storytelling is alive and well on the island. Sip an aperitif of complimentary muscat and exchange stories by the cosy fire at the historic Ship Inn Stanley (shipinnstanley.com.au). Jot your yarns

on a postcard from their 1900s Billiard Hall, leaving them for others to enjoy.

This Off Season, savour three nights for the cost of two.

Keep Your Hands Busy For those who embrace winter as a time to slow down, sit by the fire and make something beautiful by hand, there’s a uniquely Tasmanian embroidery class at Yarns Artwork in Silk (greatwesterntiers.net. au) in Deloraine. Each class includes a viewing of the famous Yarns Artwork - a large-scale textile project depicting the four seasons of life in the Meander Valley.

In this class you’ll choose a kit of either a Tasmanian Devil or Tasmanian Tiger - exact replicas of those featured on the Yarns panels - and be guided through the process over two hours. Classes held on 12 May, 16 June, 14 July and 11 August.

Bay of Fires Winter Arts Festival The Bay of Fires Winter Arts Festival (bayoffireswinterartsfestival.com.au) is back from 7-16 June, bringing art to open private and public spaces in St Helens and surrounds. The annual $20,000 Bay of Fires Art Prize and exhibition gala opening will be on 7 June at the Panorama Hotel. There’s also the youth art prize, an open studio arts and gardens trail, and a dawn dash and splash at Binalong Bay’s Main Beach at 7:15am on 8 June.

Hadley’s Art Prize The annual prestigious Hadley’s Art Prize (hadleysartprize.com.au) is always a winter highlight in Hobart. An

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acquisitive Australian landscape prize, it offers $100,000 to the winning entry and receives incredible works from artists all over. On 7 May finalists are announced, on 2 August the exhibition opens and awards are announced, with the finalists’ work exhibited until 25 August. There are free tours and artist talks on various dates.

Bay of Fires En Plein Air Immerse yourself in the beauty of the Bay of Fires during the Off Season with a four-day en plein air painting retreat led by acclaimed artist Peter Gouldthorpe and run by the Tasmanian Walking Company (taswalkingco.com.au). Walk to different locations to capture landscapes by day, and engage in art-filled evenings over delectable food and wine. All enjoyed with a small group of like-minded art appreciators at a private eco-lodge.

Old School Camera Action Get shutter happy when you stay two nights at Wahroonga on Bourke (wahroongaonbourke.com), a Federation home accommodation in Launceston.

At check in you’ll receive a film camera before heading out into the wilds for a guided photography shoot. After capturing your stills, venture into the darkroom and get hands-on developing your unique souvenirs.

Created in partnership with Tourism Tasmania

For more discovertasmania.com.au/off-season

MUSIC

BEATS, EATS + MUSICAL FEATS Opera At The Farm Venture beyond usually-locked gates this Off Season as part of Permission to Trespass - a festival inviting you onto private properties that are normally off limits in the north west. Ditch the Tassie tuxedo and dress to impress at A Night of Opulence, an evening of fine dining and opera at Table House Farm, on 8 June. There’s canapes, sparkling wine and a three course dinner with matching drinks, to be enjoyed while listening to award winning performers Kiran Rajasingam (baritone) and Georgia Wilkinson (soprano). The full festival program is at northwesttasmania.com. au/permissiontotrespass.

Musical Theatre Festival Descends Did you know Launceston once boasted more theatres per capita than anywhere in the world? It’s fitting that the dancers-singers-actors of Australia will unite in Launceston for the Australian Musical Theatre Festival over five days in May. There’s a series of events, performances and presentations, including a Backwards and Forwards walking tour of the historic city through the eyes and ears of performers of tomorrow, including a performance inside the rarely accessed jewel of Launceston’s architectural crown: the National Theatre. Head to amtf.org.au for more information.

Woolmers x TSO Collab Enjoy an intimate classical music concert in a beautiful setting with Woolmers 2 - a unique chamber music experience by the Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra at Woolmers Estate in Longford on 22 June. Enjoy Borodin String Sextet in D minor and Brahms String Sextet No. 1 in B-flat, Op. 18, brought to life by Jennifer Owen and Lucy Carrig-Jones on the violin, Douglas Coghill and Henry Justo on viola, Jonathan Békés on cello and Stuart Thomson on double bass. Book tickets at tso.com.au/music-at-woolmers.

HARPING ON: WITH EM SANZARO Emily Sanzaro is here to tell you to leave your preconceived ideas about harp music at the door. The harpist, singer, storyteller, artist and mum collaborates with many of Tasmania’s biggest names and this Off Season she is working with Launceston’s Stillwater Restaurant for a unique event combining contemporary music and storytelling.

“It’s not your standard background music gig,” says Sanzaro. “I’ll combine live music and storytelling in a way that’s relaxed and personal, in between courses of the delicious food, wine and hospitality that Stillwater is famous for. I have an informal performance style and you won’t be hearing the type of music you might expect to hear from a harp because I don’t really do much of that!” she laughs.

It’s a fitting time for Sanzaro to perform: she loves the Off Season in Tasmania. “I think the very best part of winter in Tassie is being awake for the dawn every day,” she says. “I’m so inspired by that sense of renewal, possibility and a clean slate along with the spectacular vista of the winter light creeping into the clouds, the land crisp with frost. We have so many beautiful, clear, cold mornings in Launnie and they are just magic.

The early darkness in the evenings brings such a sense of cosiness.

I love hearty winter food and I absolutely LOVE luxuriating in winter fashion. I find clothes for cool weather way more fun and interesting. Oh, and a good hot gin toddy at a bonfire with friends on a winter’s night...pure gold!”

Sanzaro is naturally a winter person, but does have some solid advice for those who aren’t fully sold on this time of year yet.

“My tip would be to try and find the beauty in it. I do feel that many people get bogged down in complaining about feeling cold, or the shorter amount of daylight, but I’m all about finding ways to make it a good thing. Make good clothing choices so that you can just get outside despite the cooler temperature.”

Like many artists, Sanzaro is leaning into the Off Season’s chance to create at a time when the distractions of summer go quiet. “The cool brings more intensity to my creative process, and a visceral sense of comfort and clarity. Things are usually not quite so frenetic as they are in summer. The slower pace gives me time to think, to mull over ideas, to learn new techniques, hone compositions or write new ones, to experiment. It’s like I come to life in winter. I’m in my power when it’s cold and dark.”

One of Sanzaro’s favourite things is to play and sing in the wilderness - which is somewhat difficult with an enormous harp! “I’ve taken my small harp to many places in the Tasmanian wilderness,” she says. “I have a bespoke harp backpack which helps me hike pretty easily. I’d love to take the harp to the summit of Frenchman’s Cap - I climbed that mountain almost 30 years ago and it was incredible.”

To book your seat at the event on 14 August, head to stillwater. com.au.

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TRAVEL

ISLANDS OFF THE ISLAND There’s something special and galvanising about living on an island off an island.

But what about going one step further and travelling to another island? It turns out Tassie is made up of over 330 islands - here’s our wrap up of some of the best smaller land masses to visit off the Tasmanian coast for something different this Off Season.

Maria Island Our love of wombats is real, and there’s no better place to see them in the wild than on Maria Island, where they are familiar with humans and have no natural predators so are free to roam during daylight hours. Maria, on our east coast, is of course dotted with stunning pristine beaches where you’re unlikely to have to tussle for towel space - particularly in winter. You might want to join the Brass Monkey Swim Club - buy a Plunge Permit with Encounter Maria Island (encountermaria.com.au) and submerge into the bitterly cold winter waters that surround the National Park island.

Picnic Island If you really want to escape from the crowds, you could hire an entire private island. Picnic Island (picnicisland.com. au) offers a secluded, copper-clad lodge and the chance to be marooned with inquisitive resident penguins. Activities can include fishing for flathead or squid, walking, swimming, or just settling in for a day of reading by the fire. Plan your mutiny from May to June and you might even see migrating whales.

Bruny Island We all think we know Bruny Island, yet everytime we visit we discover something new, like Hundred Acre Hideaway’s (hundredacrehideaway.com.au) hot tub retreat. Escape your responsibilities at one of their two adults-only hideaways set in 100 acres of rainforest, bush and meadows overlooking Cloudy Bay on South Bruny. Lean in to the wintery indulgence with a bottle of Tasmanian Pinot Noir and Bruny Botanic gift hamper for each two-night stay. Also on south Bruny, the family-friendly Mandala (mandalabrunyisland.com.au) is a beautifully restored historic timber home in private bushland by the water, great for couples but also big enough for families or groups. Rug up and head outdoors to explore the trails that start right across the road then settle back in to reconnect around the fire with their craft supplies and games, or cook together with items from the complimentary local produce hamper.

King Island Heading to the north west, King Island beckons with its promise of cheese, milk, yoghurt...yes, all the dairy. It also has three challenging golf courses, an abundance of fresh air (sometimes blowing non-stop in your face, but still...fresh!) and incredible seafood. Play a round in the middle of the Great Southern

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Ocean at Ocean Dunes Golf Club (oceandunes.com.au) ranked fourth in Australia. Enjoy a different kind of beach time here, with three nights for the price of two, at Buttons by the Beach (kingisland.org.au/operator/buttons-bythe-beach) in winter. The off-grid retreat is right on the beach - easy access for cold water plunges and sunset views.

Flinders Island To really get away from it all, head far, far away, to Faraway on Flinders Island (farawayonflindersisland.com. au). Rugged and beautiful, Flinders is one of the 52 islands in the Furneaux Group dotted across the Bass Strait and the perfect place to embrace the elements this winter with a transformative wellness experience. Dive into cold water immersion therapy, eat local island cuisine and stargaze from your boutique retreat.

Designed as an art house and a space for entertaining, the three bedroom Faraway, and the land it is on, will be exclusively yours to explore and relax amongst.

With views across Adelaide Bay to the Furneaux Outer Islands (more islands!), you could see Vansittart, Big and Little Dog, Green and Cape Barren Islands.

Created in partnership with Tourism Tasmania

For more discovertasmania.com.au/off-season

Freycinet Marine Farm

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EAT + DRINK

FROM FIRE TO FEAST: WINTER EATS AND DRINKS Warm up from the inside out with food and drink this Off Season, where star produce shines in incredible settings across the island. It’s not just food - it’s a journey into the heart and soul of Tasmania’s vibrant culinary scene.

is usually exclusive to accommodation guests, but this winter it unveils itself for a lucky few. Delight in three courses of the Huon Valley’s finest produce, each dish served in a charming ‘fancy granny’ style and complemented by local wines.

Straight Outta Italy You could spend big bucks and travel to Italy for the food...or you could stay right here and learn to cook incredible Italian food with The Farmhouse Kitchen (thefarmhousekitchen-tas.com) at Wattle Grove. This special cooking class, called Piatti Invernali (winter dishes), has a focus on traditional Italian winter foods like minestrone, risotto, greens with pork, beef spazzatino and zuppa di lenticchie.

Cocktail Craft Make and enjoy true Tasmanian gin cocktails with the Three Cuts Gin & Smoke Cocktail Masterclass at the Tamar Valley’s Turner Stillhouse (turnerstillhouse.com). Take home cocktail recipe cards and an engraved glass to impress your future house guests.

Flaming Feast Eat fire-cooked lamb straight from the paddock, truffles, and flaming desserts in the cosy setting of Rathmore’s (rathmore.com.au) unique rustic heritage woolshed in the return of the special Off Season Lunch. Just add local wines and convivial host, wine writer Windsor Dobbin, for guaranteed good banter.

Make the most of the trip and sleepover in the luxury farmhouse accommodation.

There’s even the high chance of spotting a platypus on the Dew Rivulet. There’s a strict dress code for the night: Tasmanian tuxedo (aka, a puffer jacket).

Join the Supper Club You’re invited to join a very special club this Off Season: the Fancy Granny Secret Supper Club hosted by The Bowmont (thebowmont.com.au). This character-filled heritage building, run by stylist and writer Michelle Crawford, in gorgeous Franklin just south of Hobart,

Winter Bubbles Bubbles burst in your mouth as perfectly in winter as they do in summer - with Tasmanian sparkling among the world’s best. To prove it, you’re invited to stop in at Jansz Tasmania (jansz.com.au) at Pipers Brook for a light lunch with a bottle of sparkling of your choice, and head home with a curated gift pack of knitted Tasmanian woollens, a Jansz bag and bottle opener. Explore the premium NV and vintage wines from the estate vineyard and enjoy the priceless view.

Toasty Warm with Truffles Forage for truffles on a Winter Warmer tour in Deloraine at The Truffle Farm (thetrufflefarmtasmania.com.au) - the first producing truffle farm in Australia. Learn more about these mysterious little balls of luxury whilst eating decadent truffle pizza around the fire pit, with a glass of wine followed by a truffle hot chocolate. If you can’t join a tour, don’t miss the truffle toastie available at the farmgate shop on the Deloraine property.

Chowder Down Head to Bicheno’s The Lobster Shack (lobstershacktasmania.com.au) for an east coast seafood experience centred around the Southern Rock Lobster. Feast on a hearty seafood chowder to warm yourself in the winter, matched with a local Maclean Bay Pinot Noir.

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Please, Sir, I Want S’more Get toasty at The Agrarian Kitchen (theagrariankitchen.com) in New Norfolk with their take on the campfire s’more.

If you’re young or young at heart, gather each weekend around the firepits, curl up in a snuggly Waverly Woolen Mills blanket, and chomp down on the sweet, crunchy, gooey biscuit sandwich that is the s’more.

CABBAGE AND PORK SOUP This delicious soup recipe comes from Giuliana White of The Farmhouse Kitchen, a cooking school at Wattle Grove.

Ingredients: ½ cabbage, thinly sliced 2 pork chops, diced ¼ cup chopped celery leaves ¼ cup of chopped parsley Olive oil, salt 1 onion, chopped 3 cloves garlic, chopped Chilli powder, to taste 1 ½ cups of rice 1 cup Pecorino cheese Method: In a large pot place a little olive oil, chilli powder, onion, garlic and pork, including bones and fat. Fry until the meat has browned. Add the cabbage. Cover with water and a level tablespoon of salt and the chopped herbs. Cook until the cabbage is quite tender. Meanwhile, cook the rice.

Add 1 tbs olive oil and ½ tbs of salt to a saucepan. Add the rice and heat until it becomes translucent then add 3 cups of hot water and cover. Leave for ten minutes on medium heat - don’t stir. When the cabbage and rice are cooked, mix them together with the cheese. Serve hot.

EAT + DRINK

A highlight of the Winter Feast, as part of the Dark Mofo festival in Hobart, is the palawa kipli stall, where you can grab traditional Tasmanian Aboriginal foods with a modern take. Kitana Mansell is the manager of palawa kipli and is excited to be gearing up for another busy Off Season.

How did palawa kipli begin? My cousin Tim Sculthorpe started palawa kipli in 2018, showcasing the business and our foods at market stalls across nipaluna / Hobart such as the Winter Feast, Taste of Summer and corporate events. I had the privilege of working with him during the start of the business at the Winter Feast and seeing customers really embrace our culture, stories, and food. The business was then purchased by the Tasmanian Aboriginal Centre in 2020 where I then became manager because of my experience at palawa kipli and my bush foods knowledge from my previous job at Mac Point.

What are you excited about for palawa kipli this winter? I’m excited to be running the palawa kipli Winter Feast food stall for my third time and sharing our cultural food with locals and international visitors. I’m also really excited to get the fire going before and after the kipli takara tours for winter as it gives everyone on the experience that connection to fire and keeps the international visitors feeling warm and cosy during the colder months in Lutruwita / Tasmania.

How have the kipli takara tours been going? The kipli takara tours have had a lot of international and interstate guests come along to experience our tour and catering, which has been fantastic - to exchange cultural knowledge from different nationalities and experiences from their own homes that remind them of other first nation tours they have been on. However, we really encourage more locals in Lutruwita / Tasmania to come along and learn about their own state’s history and to start planting or using these native plants they most likely have naturally growing in their own backyards and aren’t even aware of it until they come on our tour. We really encourage people to support local Aboriginal businesses in Lutruwita / Tasmania and create a more sustainable future for all.

What will palawa kipli bring to the Winter Feast this year? Well of course the yula (Mutton bird) is staying on the menu, with various bush foods mixed into the dish. Our taralangkana (Angasi) oysters will be tempura along with a native spice mix and sauce. Then our native infused ice cream, one being tapu (Pepperberry) and Leatherwood honey, and our second flavour wurayni (Wattleseed) and coffee liqueur ice cream.

What is your favourite winter meal?

Favourite winter meal would be the salted yula (Mutton bird) along with heaps

of delicious vegetables, like a stew but replacing that with the yula and plenty of salt! Us blackfullas love SALT!!!

What’s your hope for palawa kipli over the next ten years? I think it’s quite obvious that in Lutruwita / Tasmania we have so many restaurants showcasing each and every cultural food - unfortunately we are yet to have a local food restaurant that represents palawa kipli / Tasmanian Aboriginal food, so I hope to see one up and running over the next few years. I also see a great vision at piyura kitina / Risdon Cove to have all of the 250 bush foods growing on the property, to encourage more palawa people to come and harvest their foods to eat at home, and to sell cuttings for locals to grow at home so no one needs to go into the wild to harvest our bush tucker. I’d like to sell bush tucker products under palawa kipli and to add more plant knowledge to the kipli takara tours as these new bush foods grow over the years.

Head to palawakipli.com for more information or to book a kipli takara tour. Currently booking tours through to July. You can also follow on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.

Created in partnership with Tourism Tasmania

For more discovertasmania.com.au/off-season

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TRAVEL

OFF SEASON EXCURSION: VENTURE WEST + NORTH WEST Heater on, music up, a hot coffee in the cup holder. It’s time for an Off Season road trip to experience the north west and west of Tasmania. With a mix of adventurous discovery and snug relaxation, a getaway here will take you through the ancient rainforests of takayna / Tarkine, moody beaches and charming historic towns. Inhale a sharp intake of the super fresh air, let’s get on the road.

Tasmania’s third-largest city, Devonport, is the gateway to the north west and a top starting point for a northern journey in winter. The port where travelers on the Spirit of Tasmania arrive, Devonport has a rich history in transport, which you can find more about at the Bass Strait Maritime Centre (bassstraitmaritime centre.com.au). From there, take a brisk walk to the red-and-white candy-striped Mersey Bluff Lighthouse with views out to the sometimes calm, sometimes wild Bass Strait. It was built in 1889 and put a stop to a long history of shipwrecks in the area. Taste a warming gin or two at Southern Wild Distillery’s (dasherandfisher.au) cellar door, or make your own bottle of gin to take home in an experience held once a month during winter. For lunch, melt the cold away with Southeast Asian eats at Mr. Good Guy 36

(mrgoodguy.com.au), indulging in their curated winter menu for the Off Season.

Spend the night in a self-contained tiny house at Compass Hut (compasshut.com. au) 10 minutes out of town. Part of every booking is donated to the Tasmanian Arboretum, a botanical tree park nearby.

Just a short drive west of Devonport is Ulverstone, a seaside town at the mouth of the Leven River. Explore the impressive Hive Tasmania (hivetasmania.com. au), a museum and the largest planetarium in the state - perfect for learning about dark sky gazing in winter. Embark on a Leven River Cruise (levenrivercruises. com.au), a watery journey bush-walking, wildlife viewing, and relaxing. Check in for the night at BIG4 Ulverstone Holiday Park (big4ulverstoneholidaypark.com. au). For families, if you stay for two nights, children stay for free, with a kids welcome pack including games and hot chocolate. You also get a bottle of local wine, a voucher for dinner at The Bowls Club, and a discount on the Leven River Cruise.

Sheffield is a small dairy farming town with an artsy side - over 160 murals adorn the walls of the town as a fascinating outdoor gallery. Slow it down but

cover ground - view the iconic murals on a horse-drawn carriage with Almost Heaven Clydesdales (almostheaven clydesdales.com.au), snuggled up with a blanket and hot drink. In the distance, the stunning Mount Roland stands proud. If you’re feeling it, embark on an invigorating four to six hour return hike up this 1233 metre tall beauty for incredible views of the region’s plains and plateaus.

Sleep at nearby Manna Hill Farm

TRAVEL

out at the choppy ocean. Try their signature popcorn crayfish, made from Southern Rock Lobster, paired with hot sauce, chips and salad for $25. Stay two nights at the Stanley Hotel Bistro & Bar (stanleytasmania.com.au) to get a $70 Stanley Hotel voucher (hello dinner by the roaring fire), or a two night cosy cabin stay at BIG4 Stanley Holiday Park (big4stanley.com.au) for a complimentary dinner for two at Hursey Seafoods.

(mannahillfarm.com.au) who will share a hamper of local treats and mulled wine for stays four nights and longer. Alternatively, bunker down at Paradise Road Farm (paradiseroadfarm.com.au) for a two night stay and meet the friendly local goats and cows, and take a guided tour of the paddocks, ending the nights with soup made from farm produce.

Dessert with the Devils one evening and enjoy sweet local treats as the devils feast on their dinner. Spend the night at Cradle Mountain Hotel (cradlemountainhotel. com.au) - as part of the Off Season there will be wine on arrival, daily breakfast, a National Parks and shuttle bus pass, dining credit at the Altitude Restaurant, and entry to the Wilderness Gallery.

Pay a visit to nearby Gunns Plains, a small, unassuming area with a wild underbelly. This is the site of the Gunns Plains Caves (gunnsplainscaves.com.au), a series of caverns and passages home to platypus and giant freshwater lobsters.

On select dates this Off Season, enjoy a moving didgeridoo performance as it echoes through the caves. Then pop into Leven Valley Vineyard (levenvalleyvine yard.com.au) with panoramic views of the Leven River. Sample a glass or two as you BBQ your own winter feast.

On the edge of takayna / Tarkine, Smithton is a stone’s throw away from a huge tranche of pristine Tasmanian wilderness. It’s a great base for winter exploration of the north west - from here you can travel to legendary surf spots at Marrawah to spot some hardy winter surfers (perhaps join them yourself!), or to the wind farms of Cape Grim. Fan of heights? Book with Tall Timbers Hotel (talltimbershotel.com.au) for their Tarkine Wilderness Helicopter Tour to get a bird’seye view of the north west. If you prefer to stick to the ground, join their fourwheel drive tour through the dramatic and breathtaking wilderness - there’s also complimentary woollen beanies and a Hellyer Road Whisky tasting.

Travel deeper into the winter wilderness to Cradle Mountain, part of the Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park.

This classic Tasmanian peak is the base for numerous mountain activities and often sees snow in winter. Enjoy one of the many hikes, or take a kayak journey in a hand built King Billy Pine kayak on Dove Lake with Cradle Mountain Canyons (cradlemountaincanyons. com.au). To learn more about the local wildlife, visit Devils@Cradle (devilsatcradle.com), a peaceful refuge dedicated to Tasmanian devils and quolls.

For a darker foodie experience, try

Stanley is a charming town on the northwest coast lined with well-preserved cottages. Taking the self-guided Stanley heritage walk is like stepping back in time. Towering over the town is The Nut, an ancient volcanic plug that stands 143m high, which you can walk up or take a chairlift. Taste award-winning local seafood at Hursey Seafoods (hurseyseafoods.com.au) as you gaze

On the rugged and wild west sits Queenstown, a former mining town full of history and cultural riches. Because of its mining legacy, the landscape surrounding Queenstown feels otherworldly, almost like a beautiful moonscape. Board a heritage train with the West Coast Wilderness Railway (wcwr.com.au) to explore the surrounding cool temperate rainforest, celebrating Christmas in July with decorations and festive nibbles. On 3 and 17 August, join a small group and immerse yourself in the magic of night train photography at Carswell Park. Book the Ride & Stay Package with the historic Empire Hotel (empirehotel.net.au), built in 1901, where you can spend two nights accommodation, and enjoy a 20% discount on the West Coast Wilderness Railway.

Created in partnership with Tourism Tasmania

For more discovertasmania.com.au/off-season

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HISTORY

The nights grow darker and longer. The Bridgewater Jerry fog creeps down the Derwent River to envelop old convict streets. Grass is coated with crusty ice.

Can you hear a whisper, or is that a tapping? Feel a presence? Tasmania is full of places rich with history and stories - many of which are tragic. Are you brave enough to visit some haunted locales?

Whether you want to learn history or meet a Tassie Casper, here are six ways to embrace the spooky side of Tasmania.

Apparition in the Asylum: History comes alive after dark at Willow Court, New Norfolk. For almost 200 years it was one of the largest mental asylums in the southern hemisphere. If you’re brave enough, enter Ward C, the male ward for the criminally insane, which was active until the 1970s. Join a paranormal investigation with Tasmania’s Most Haunted (tasmaniasmosthaunted.com.au) to learn the fascinating history of this facility, then use ghost-hunting equipment to find what’s lurking in the corridors. Make sure you come out in one piece. During the winter school holidays, kids over 13 can join a ghost tour, while younger kids can learn the history of Willow Court through an all-ages history tour.

BOOtcamp Barracks: Walking the halls and cells of Hobart’s Anglesea Barracks under a night sky may shed a different light on this slice of Tasmania history.

Explore the dark side of this 19th-century military gaol in the grounds of Australia’s oldest military barracks still in use. The gaol was built in 1847 to accommodate wayward soldiers, and houses 14 cells.

You can’t usually visit after dark, but in winter you can join a paranormal investigation with Tasmania’s Most Haunted (tasmaniasmosthaunted.com. au/military-gaol-tours/) to uncover the secrets the building has to offer - a bootcamp experience that’ll make you sweat for a whole different reason.

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Wraiths of Wynyard: In the 1850s, on the north west coast of Tasmania, three ex-convict brothers established a settlement called Alexandria. Shortly after, Wynyard town was established nearby, and eventually swallowed up Alexandria due to better wharfing for shipping. Uncover this local history at the Old Wynyard Cemetery and memorise the names on the tombstones. Or visit the Old Wynyard Theatre, where people from a century ago would watch live shows.

But don’t stay too long, for spirits are known to haunt both of these places. If you’re brave enough, though, embark on a thrilling paranormal tour with Permission to Trespass (northwesttasmania.com. au/permissiontotrespass) on Friday 14, 21 and 28 June to really get to know the wraiths of Wynyard.

Convict Chapters: Between 1804 and 1853, more than 70,000 convicts were forcibly transported to Tasmania, and their history is dotted all over the state. Start your ghost hunt at Port Arthur Historic Site (portarthur.org.au), the destination for those deemed the most hardened of convicts. Visit after dark to really dial up the heebie jeebies. More than 1000 people perished on these grounds during its time as a penal settlement, and some of those souls seemed to have remained. In Hobart, uncover unsettling secrets of the Hobart Penitentiary (nationaltrust.org.au/places/ penitentiary). This was a processing centre for male convicts, where solitary confinement was a cruel experiment in attempting to reform them. 32 people were executed at the site. Tour this old building to learn about its uncomfortable

history, and maybe even hear a whisper in the dark from a lost soul. But what about the women? South Hobart’s Cascades Female Factory (femalefactory.org.au) tells stories of convict women and girls who were displaced and mistreated. Far away from it all, the absolute worst place for a convict to be sent was Sarah Island on the west coast, near Strahan. Here, they laboured under harsh and isolated conditions, with almost no chance of escape. The ruins provide a chilling insight into life on the island. To explore the area, book a three night package at Strahan Village (strahanvillage.com.au), including $300 dining credit and premium upper deck seats on a Gordon River Cruise (gordonrivercruises.com.au).

Cinema Chills: For a different kind of spooky adventure, head to Easy Tiger Cinema (easytiger.au/now-showing) in St Helens. In May experience Film Noir, a spine-tingling film program for horror buffs. Embrace fear, buttery popcorn and craft drinks, there’s no better way to feed your inner horror cinephile.

Created in partnership with Tourism Tasmania

For more discovertasmania.com.au/off-season

WINTER PEOPLE AREN’T BORN They’re made. In Tasmania.

We bound into the season when others yawn. Awoken by the chill. More fiery and free under the cover of dark.

We cast off our inhibitions and plunge into icy waters.

Plumping with the oysters and singing to bubbling whisky stills.

To everything there is a season.

And if, like us, you think life’s too short to hibernate - that season is now.

Wake up to the OFF SEASON May-August 2024 discovertasmania.com.au/off-season

Beaker Street Festival

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WHAT’S ON IN HOBART MONDAY

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The Hobart Blues Club presents Yesterday’s Gentlemen at The Republic tonight from 7:30pm. Bookings essential if you want to order din dins whilst there.

Learn all about Austrian artist Gustav Klimt and how he led The Vienna Secession at tonight’s arts lecture at Stanley Burbury Theatre, 6pm.

Law Week Tasmania kicks off today with tours and events until 26th. Try your hand at traditional Samoan barkcloth painting called Siapo at a workshop at the Grace Centre in Rokeby from 6pm.

More info on humanitix.

Learn how to ensure your digital legacy is well managed at a free session at the Sorell Library, 10-11am.

Will it be a total eclipse of the heart? You’ll only know if you go the Hobart Glee’s 80s power ballads night, from 6:30-7:30pm at Irish Murphys.

The Weeping Tree, a new series of short films about the cider gum, by Matthew Newtown, has a special screening tonight at the State Cinema.

6:30pm start.

Learn the fundamentals of improvisation in this five week course with PROTEA Impro. Starts tonight, 5:30pm. Book on Trybooking.

Grab some classical music for lunch with the latest Lunchbox Concert, featuring Xyris Quartet playing music

by Bach to Xenakis and new home-grown works.

1:05pm, Hobart Town Hall.

If you can dodge a wrench, you can dodge a ball. Enjoy fast-paced fun and meet new people at a drop-in dodgeball game at Hobart PCYC, 7:308:30pm, for ages 16+.

Prep for winter with a series of three Fair Isle knitting classes at the Salamanca Wool Shop. Starting tonight at 6pm, knit a headband to get you set for further projects.

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FRIDAY

Nigel Forteath has spent the last 40 years observing little creatures in Tasmania. His new book, A Photographic Guide to the Dragonflies & Damselflies of Tasmania, launches tonight at Fullers, 5:30pm.

Elizabeth College presents Dolly Parton’s musical, 9 to 5. Elizabeth College Theatre, various show dates and times via trybooking.

Departing at 7pm during the Off Season, the world-renowned scientist Dr Lisa Gershwin will lead guests along the Hobart rivulet to find animals, plants and fungi that glow. Book ahead.

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Theatre Royal hosts a fundraising concert in aid of Ukraine war refugees, headlined by London based classical guitarist Pavel Ralev.

Plasticwise Eastside are hosting their monthly sewing bee tonight to make reusable cloth bags for use at local businesses. Find them on Facebook.

The dance floor makes way for a selection of secondhand and vintage garments, as Altar transforms into a night clothing market called Hanging Garments. Featuring DJs as you shop.

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Witness Jonathan Békés, TSO Principal Cello, as he tackles a ferociously challenging solo then deconstructs it in a jazzy, folksy performance. At Grand Chancellor Hotel Hobart, 6pm.

Visit the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery to view Lands of Light, work by Australian landscape painter Lloyd Rees (1895-1988), on until 27 October.

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The free Art From Inside Exhibition, showcasing art from current and former prisoners, arrives at Waterside Pavilion Mawson’s Place, until 9 June, 12-2pm and 4-8pm.

Twelve Angry Jurors is a variation on the well-known movie, Twelve Angry Men, and is being performed at Peacock Theatre tonight. Several more dates are available.

Take part in a Reconciliation Week Breakfast at MyState Bank Arena, 7-9am. The breakfast will feature words from Shane Howard and Ged Watts. Also, State Cinema hosts the Very Short Film Festival tonight.

i Details subject to

MAY SATURDAY

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TEDxHobart returns with the theme ‘Ripple Effect’. At the Odeon Theatre, speakers include mountaineer Paul Pritchard, radio personality Ryk Goddard, and fashion designer Lalita Lowe.

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Enjoy a day at Salamanca Market with the sounds of The City of Hobart Highland Pipe Band soundtracking your shopping.

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The 2024 Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour is a three hour celebration of the mountain and adventure sport world. 7pm, The Farrall Centre (The Friends’ School).

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A Taste of Ireland arrives at Wrest Point tonight. The acclaimed cast of Irish dancers, musicians, and singers deliver an unforgettable night of laughter and jigs. Sláinte!

SUNDAY

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Celebrate Mother’s Day with the breast cancer fundraising fun run, Mother’s Day Classic, this time held at Bellerive Beach Play Park. Runs start at 8am and walks at 9am.

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Join the Kingston Beach Fun Run and Walk today. A family, wheelchair/walker and pram-friendly event, it will commence at 9am at Kingborough Sports Centre then finish at Kingston Beach.

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City to Casino Fun Run is on today. From the 12km run from MyState Bank Arena, a 7km run and walk at Cornelian Bay, and a 2.7km kids run in Salamanca Place, there’s fun fitness for all levels.

FURTHER AFIELD 11 May AFL is back in Launceston with the Hawthorn Hawks hosting St Kilda at UTAS Stadium. First bounce is scheduled for 1:45pm.

Tickets through ticketmaster.

11 May Pete Cornelius brings the live music to Live at the Lanes at the Devonport Tenpin Bowling Centre. Book a lane or just drop by and enjoy the tunes, food and beverages. Lights go down and music goes up from 6:30pm-9:30pm.

15 May Journey to Devil’s Corner to visit their Hazards Vineyard and Moulting Lagoon to experience a curated itinerary featuring a vineyard tour, oyster shucking lesson, and a sumptuous lunch in The Devil’s Den underground cellar. Available once a month until August.

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Michael Aitkens’ Waiting for God will be performed at The Memorial Hall, New Norfolk at 2pm. An irreverent and rebellious look at ageing. More shows on 7 and 8 June.

For even more events in Hobart and further afield this month head to www.thehobartmagazine.com.au/mayevents change. Check in with individual events for further details.

18 May The Meander Recreation Ground comes to life after dark with Light Up Meander: a community night with fireworks and more.

Entry by donation. Gates open at 5pm, barbecue from 6pm and fireworks at 8pm.

18 May A free Vintage Day will be held today from 10am to 4pm at the Great Western Tiers Visitor Centre, Deloraine. Delve into the past with vintage fashion, a market, and museum speakers.

Dress up in historical attire for a chance to win a $100 gift voucher.

25 May As darkness falls in Burnie, Communion Brewing presents a feast of curated food, beer and whisky pairings. Podcasters Nick and Ted of Whisky Waffle will host an evening of entertaining storytelling. 7pm-10pm.

1-2 June The McGrath Launceston Running Festival is back: it’s the city’s largest mass participation running event and one of the fastest road races in the Southern Hemisphere. With distances from one mile to a half marathon, spread over two days, take your pick.

Got an event coming up in Tassie?

Email us at editor@thehobartmagazine.com.au Background photo: S. Group

HEALTH

NAVIGATING CHAOS IN THE ED THROUGH RESEARCH Dr. Viet Tran is an accomplished emergency physician, researcher, and educator who has cared for over 30,000 patients throughout his career. His research works to improve emergency and trauma care in Tasmania, and has received almost $10 million in funding across 10 different project grants.

What inspired you to pursue a career in Emergency Medicine (EM)? EM was not my first choice! I’ve always considered myself good with my hands and aspired to be a surgeon throughout medical school.

But after a few years as a junior doctor in various surgical units, it became clear that it wasn’t the lifestyle for me. It’s a grueling training program and credit to the surgeons who make it on and make it through the program. It’s a tough one!

Between the chaos, the day-to-day risks, the shift work and the sheer breadth of medicine, it’s a wonder anyone would want to specialise in EM. For me, it’s the special teamwork that keeps me wanting to stay in the Emergency Department (ED). Shout out to everyone who I’ve

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worked with in the Royal Hobart Hospital ED! Just as important as the team, is what brings us together - the patient.

Perhaps the most unique and understated part of EM are the patients. You see, the Emergency Department is where you go when there is nowhere else that you can think of that can help. Therefore, we see patients at their most vulnerable to entrust us with their care. It’s a huge responsibility, greatly rewarding but equally devastating when the limits of modern medicine are reached.

What challenges do emergency departments in Tasmania face in providing consistent, high-quality care? What could we do better? Tassie EDs face the same issues as every other ED around the world. Currently, the greatest risk to patient safety and the single greatest threat to the security of healthcare systems internationally is the exponential growth of overcrowding in EDs. There’s no sugar coating it.

Overcrowding is essentially when there are more patients than there are staffed beds to care for patients. This results in less ideal situations of care which leads to unsafe care and even avoidable deaths.

And what can we do about it? That’s a much tougher question to answer, and one that health systems around the world have spent millions of dollars trying to figure out. The main issue is that overcrowding is not a problem created inside the ED, instead, it’s a culmination of many things not working efficiently or in coordination across the system itself. Broadly speaking, in Australia, you have private

and public systems as well as state and federal systems for healthcare, all of which work mostly in silos. What’s often forgotten is that patients trying to coordinate care between siloes are often left floundering. When systems work together, efficiencies are made, patient care on whole is better and more timely and EDs are less crowded. This is a start.

How does your research address these challenges? ED overcrowding is a system-wide issue, yet EDs are often faced with expending all its energy advocating for solutions. This has been exhausting for the profession and a distraction for the quality that we could otherwise be focusing on within EDs. The research focus for the Tasmanian Emergency Medicine Research Institute is to revisit the impact that EDs make with each patient, to ensure we’re providing the best care possible, despite the constraints.

It’s often mentioned that it takes 17 years between showing through research that something works well, to doing it at the bedside. We are planning on reducing this time frame to as little as five years.

You’re one of the speakers at TEDxHobart this year. What will you talk entail? I’m looking forward to taking everyone behind the curtains to take a peek at the complex engine room that is the ED and how, internationally, we’ve arrived at this place of extreme and unsafe overcrowding, dispel some myths and look at a way forward, together. You can grab tickets to watch at the Odeon on 11 May via www.tedxhobart.com.au.

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SEASONAL EATING

IT ALL STEMS FROM MUSTARD Words: Ollie Benson Tucked in a pocket of southern Tasmania are two farmers whose approach to running a farming business is as interesting as the diverse range of vegetables they grow.

Grace Gammage and Dylan Lehmann run Broom and Brine, a market garden at Allens Rivulet. They supply 75 weekly boxes of vegetables to families and restaurants on just a quarter of an acre, and with a waiting list of 200 customers it’s clear their produce is in high demand.

Grace and Dylan operate a Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program.

With origins in Japan and the USA, CSA is a subscription model of farming that connects the farmers directly with eaters, with customers buying ‘shares’ in a farm’s projected harvest. This allows both parties to share the costs, risks, and bounties, enabling greater financial security for the farmer and a deeper connection with their customers.

Each week, Broom and Brine’s CSA boxes are made up of seven different vegetables. Throughout the year these can range from familiar produce such as carrots, celery, tomatoes, and radishes to Italian heritage varieties of radicchio and chicory, such as puntarelle and catalogna.

They also grow vegetables with Asian

origins, such as wosun, daikon, a mustard green known as gai choi in China or kekkyu takana in Japan, and oka hijiki, which translates as land seaweed. One of the most incredible looking vegetables that will be included in Broom and Brine CSA boxes during the month of May is Tsa Tsai, or stem mustard. Stem mustard hails from south-west China. As the plant matures the stems swell and form thick fist size bulbs below the petioles (the stalks that attach leaves to the main stem). While the leaves can be used like other Asian greens in soups and stir-fries, the swollen stem offers more interest. It can be peeled and served raw in salads, stewed, or pickled and turned into cha tsai, a Chinese pickle similar to kimchi.

It took Grace and Dylan months to find mustard stem seed, and multiple failed successions to find the right timing to grow them. As Grace gleefully explained, “I think these wonderful plants need the winter to bulb up. They look like regular mustard for most of their growing period, with big wide shiny leaves. And then boom, they all began to bulge, and Dylan and I pretty much danced around the garden.”

Asia, and Japan in particular, has been a major influence for both Grace and Dylan.

Both are inspired by lean thinking and methods, the roots of which can be found in Japanese manufacturing techniques, especially from those employed

by Toyota.

Through continuous consideration of their business and intentionally setting aside time to work on housekeeping practices

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(known as 5S – Sort, Set in order, Shine, Standardise, and Sustain) they have been able to increase productivity while reducing their workload. Over the last 12 months they have been able to increase the number of CSA members from 50 to 75, yet remarkably they have done this in less hours per week.

So, while the stems of their mustard greens might be swelling, so to the number of customers they feed, their workload most certainly is not.

CHINESE STEM MUSTARD SALAD

Ingredients: 300g Tsa Tsai (stem mustard) Pinch of salt 1 tablespoons of soy sauce 1 tablespoon of sugar Small bunch of coriander Method: Wash the stem mustard, then cut into thin slices. Add the salt, sugar, soy sauce, and coriander.

Stir, cover and leave to lightly pickle in the fridge for at least two hours, preferably overnight. Serve with noodles, dumplings or rice.

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MUSIC

HOW A BAND FROM THE SAHARA HAS FOUND THEIR WAY TO HOBART Tim Carroll, of Holy Holy fame, created A Festival Called PANAMA in 2014. Traditionally held in the northeast, the festival is now expanding with PANAMA Presents, which will debut in Hobart with Tinariwen, a band from the Sahara. We chatted with Tim about PANAMA presents and the significance of Tinariwen.

What is the story behind A Festival Called PANAMA? The truth is long and complicated. But in some ways, it's fair to say that Dan Rooke (my co-founder) and I both felt compelled to start a festival. It was something we talked about when we were still teenagers. Eventually, we learnt enough to start something small, and in the first year, it worked well enough that we were not ruined. We kept going and kept learning along the way. In some ways, we wanted to create the kind of event that we would want to go to; an event without any corporate branding, where the programming is inventive and interesting and meets the listeners where they are. An event that respected the land and the patrons. No plastic tents, no fluorescent lights, no litter.

rebellion. It was the release of their debut full-length album, The Radio Tisdas Sessions, in 2001 that resulted in their sound spreading outside of North Africa to audiences across the globe.

Look them up and play one of their records, and you are immediately transported to another place.

What can people expect from their performance? Tinariwen has never played in lutruwita / Tasmania before, and who knows if or when they might ever come back, so it's a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. I'm expecting the night to be varied, with moments of delicate intimacy and moments of wild hypnotic grooves.

Catch Tinariwen at The Odeon on Saturday 8 June.

You are expanding with PANAMA Presents, which promises to showcase artists of exceptional quality at venues around the island. Why did you want to do this? We have dreamt about PANAMA Presents over the decade we have been running the festival. One motivation behind presenting these one off events is that PANAMA sells just 1500 tickets each year, and there are about 12000 people on the mailing list, so a lot of people miss out. PANAMA Presents allows us to reach more people and bring powerful and important acts to lutruwita / Tasmania. Also, sometimes there will be an act that we have loved for years and years - the kind of band we would love to have at PANAMA Festival, but they aren't touring in March, and they may not be back again for years, or ever. So, if we are to bring them here, we must find other ways of doing that.

PANAMA Presents will debut with a performance from Tinariwen. Tell us a bit about them. Tinariwen are a band of Tuareg musicians from the Sahara region of northern Mali. They are legendary and are considered to be the pioneers of desert blues. Their story is incredible. The band's founder, Ibrahim Ag Alhabib, lost his father during an uprising in 1963. He grew up in refugee camps in Algeria and Libya and, along the way, made his own guitars from old cans and fishing line. Later, he formed bands that played weddings, and it was here that people began referring to the group as Kel Tinariwen, which in the Tamashek language translates to "The People of the Deserts'' or "The Desert Boys''. For decades, war and civil unrest continued to be a feature of the region, and the band developed their sound while also taking part in military service and writing songs of 46

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

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

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HEALTH

ALL ABOARD FOR TASSIE HEALTH INITIATIVE Dr. Verity Cleland, of the Menzies Institute for Medical Research, is behind the Get BusActive program. The Tasmania project promotes increasing physical activity through public transport use, with participants potentially receiving up to $100 in gift vouchers.

What is the Get BusActive program? The project uses a ‘health by stealth’ approach to get Tasmanians more active, without really having to think too much about it. Less than half of Tasmanian adults are active at levels that give health benefits - such as reducing the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and stroke.

Because any activity is better than none, and activity adds up throughout the day, finding ways to add more movement into our daily routines has the potential to make a big impact on our health. We know that people who use public transport tend to be more active than those who drive, so getting people to use the bus more may have the benefit of upping our daily activity levels. We also know that driving is an entrenched habit that is hard to shift, and that many of us may need an incentive to change our patterns. Our project is testing whether giving incentives to catch the bus - a bit like a frequent shopper program - can support Tasmanians to use public transport more often and increase their daily activity levels at the same time. It is a win-win situation - more physical activity equals better health and less burden on our over-stretched healthcare system, and more public transport equals cleaner air and less traffic on our roads.

You’re the chief investigator - what does your role entail?

Every day is different. I’m responsible for overseeing the implementation of the project from start to finish. This includes everything from developing the original project idea with my colleagues, securing funding for the project, building and maintaining relationships with our project partners Metro Tasmania and state and local government, making sure all legal and ethical obligations are met, managing our budget and employing staff, doing media and promotions, and working with our team Clinical Trial Coordinator Lizzy, Data Manager/Analyst Oli, and Project Officer Kathy - to make the project happen.

What do you hope the study will uncover? We hope to see that the study volunteers who receive incentives to catch the bus more, do in fact catch the bus more, and as a result, are more active in their everyday lives. We tried to do this study at the end of 2019, but we had to abandon it in early 2020 when the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted everyone’s lives so dramatically.

The findings from the data that we had collected to that time suggested that people who received incentives were using the bus more and were more active for transport purposes. This time around, we hope to be able to finish the study to see if this is really the case.

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How can readers get involved? They can head to our website - www.getbusactive.com.au - or give our team a call on 6226 4298. There are some requirements to join in including needing to be at least 15 years old and have access to a Metro Tasmania bus in Hobart, Launceston, or Burnie. Those who qualify can receive up to $100 in gift vouchers just for taking part.

PROTECTING PINE TIER We have the rare chance to link 20,000 hectares for nature conservation in the Central Highlands

Donate today to help create Tasmania’s largest privately protected area at tasland.org.au/donate

Photo by Luke Tscharke 49

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!

We’ve gone dark(e) and light this month, as we say the annual farewell to the light Autumn days and welcome in the cosy darkness of Winter. First up is a romcom from Minnie Darke, followed by a psychological thriller - a sequel that’s grown with its audience.

With Love From Wish & Co by Minnie Darke (Penguin Books Australia, August 2023) Review

by Emily Schade Sometimes, all I wish for is a cosy romance in a whimsical setting with loveable characters, and, frankly, a happy ending. Tasmanian author Minnie Darke (aka Danielle Wood) has indeed granted my wish with her latest novel, With Love from Wish & Co. Marnie Fairchild is the owner of Wish & Co, a bespoke gift-buying service whose clients are largely wealthy men with

complicated lives. Despite being one of “those” Fairchilds, Marnie is a perfectionist who has worked hard to get where she is and will continue to push herself to move her store to the historic shopfront once owned by her beloved grandfather.

Marnie doesn’t make mistakes, especially when her most important client, his wife and his mistress are involved. So what happens when she does? Marnie finds herself in a desperate attempt to save a marriage, her business and her dream.

Now is not a good time to fall in love, particularly with her client’s son, and yet...

Minnie’s writing elevates this light read beyond a simple romcom to a well crafted, heartwarming story that is a delight to read. If you’re looking for some warm escapism, this might be for you.

I loved this book and look forward to reading Minnie’s other novels.

Fun fact: the historic shopfront in this novel is based on the very real building at 121 Harrington Street in Hobart.

Release by Lucy Christopher (Text Publishing, May 2022) Review by Kathryn Montgomery Psychological thriller isn’t a genre I usually pick up, perhaps ever, and it takes a talented author like Lucy Christopher (a senior lecturer in Creative Writing at UTAS) to pull me in with her masterful pacing and building of suspense. Gripping is an understatement - I couldn’t leave the couch until I finished!

Release can be read as a standalone novel but shares a connection to an earlier Young Adult novel, Stolen that follows Gemma - kidnapped by Ty as a teenager at Bangkok airport and taken to outback Australia.You don’t need to have read the former to follow Release, which provides enough background detail and excels at immersing the reader into the current story. Set ten years after the kidnapping, Kate Stone (formerly known as Gemma) is living in London and receives a letter in the mail advising of Ty’s imminent release from jail. Despite 10 years of distance from the trauma, copious amounts of therapy, and attempting a

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romantic relationship, she still has obsessive and complicated thoughts about Ty. Release is set in London and Perth and includes courtroom drama mixed with a road trip to the desert in Western Australia. It explores the twisted connection between Ty and Kate, who is trapped between wanting revenge and reconciliation.

The story keeps the reader guessing right up until the last pages and the ending of the book will stay with you. Highly recommended to those who want a thriller that digs beneath the surface, or just a really solid read by a talented local author!

Book Chatter: The Hobart City Council are creating a mini Hobart library as part of their role as an official UNESCO City of Literature. They’re on the look out for donations of books written in, about or reflective of nipaluna / Hobart - perhaps there’s something on your shelf you’d like to contribute?

The library will live in the reading room of the Hobart Town Hall. The reading room is open to members of the public from Monday to Friday 9am-5pm, no bookings necessary. If you haven’t popped in before we highly recommend it - a lovely spot to read.

Keen to chat books with us? Find us on Instagram @thewomanbookerprizeclub or email thewbpc@gmail.com.

Sunday 1pm-5pm Wednesday-Saturday 10am-5pm Closed Monday & Tuesday

03 6289 6946 | 185 Campbell Street Hobart

www.lauderandhoward.com.au

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HOROSCOPES

ZODIAC CHECK-IN: YOUR MONTHLY ASTRO UPDATE Words: Sara Hewitt Discover what the stars have in store for your sign this May, a month defined by the New Moon and Jupiter, the planet of abundance.

Aries (21 Mar - 19 Apr): Your values and what you feel is important will be affected by some new information which changes how you see things this month. Money is favourably influenced by the New Moon on the 8th, especially your savings. Your local community and environment may become more important over the next few months - don’t cause conflict with your neighbours.

Taurus (20 Apr - 20 May): The New Moon in Taurus on the 8th will bring a new beginning for you - especially where your emotions are concerned. A good time for taking up a new project or perhaps even a life path for some. Jupiter, the good luck and abundance planet, moves into your money and finances zone on the 26th creating fantastic conditions for receiving increased financial growth and benefits.

Gemini (21 May - 20 Jun): This is a big month for Geminis with the Sun-loving Venus and abundance and good luck planet Jupiter all entering your sign. This is the first time Jupiter has been in Gemini for twelve years and is fantastic for you to grow, learn and explore the world even if it is just online. The Full Moon in your relationship zone on the 23rd brings heightened emotions and passion.

Cancer (21 Jun - 22 Jul): Jupiter goes into your subconscious and hidden zone this month - so the best advice is to keep things to yourself or just those closest to you as there are likely to be some big changes happening which need time to develop before you are ready to act.

The New Moon brings an opportunity to reconnect and repair an old friendship 52

which has become neglected and unloved.

Leo (23 Jul - 22 Aug): A fantastic New Moon on the 8th gives a push for Leo’s to start changing their career paths or perhaps even just getting a better job.

Think big as there are great energies to help you rise up and succeed. Jupiter, the good luck planet, moves into your zone of hopes and wishes this month, so you may be lucky and have one of your long-held dreams come true before your eyes.

Virgo (23 Aug - 22 Sep): There is a lot of planetary energy in your zone of public reputation and career this month.

This will be helped by the growth planet Jupiter moving into your career zone on the 26th for the first time in twelve years - making this a fantastic time for putting your efforts into career growth and progress as you are likely to be very successful. Romance is highlighted for some.

Libra (23 Sep - 22 Oct): Jupiter moving signs on the 26th creates the perfect circumstances for travel and exploration for some Librans, and higher education for a career boost for others. The New Moon on the 8th may bring a new start in your investments and super – a good time for paying in extra or starting a new scheme which gives better benefits. Travel is indicated - especially work related.

Scorpio (23 Oct - 21 Nov): This is a great month for your financial affairs, especially if you are in a committed relationship and share your money. Loans and windfalls are all likely to come to you - possibly through your loved one as abundant Jupiter moves into your shared finance zone this month. The Full Moon in your money and values zone brings good luck and prosperity.

Sagittarius (22 Nov - 21 Dec): The Full Moon in your sign on the 23rd will bring an issue or emotion to a head - meaning you will need to deal with it head on.

Jupiter entering your relationship zone for the first time in twelve years on the 26th will bring a boost of good luck, growth and abundance to your love life and closest connections. Loving Venus brings a boost of love energy from 24th onwards.

Capricorn (22 Dec - 19 Jan): The Full Moon in your intuition and psychic zone is likely to bring some interesting dreams and perhaps even some insights into an old problem. Jupiter begins its path through your zone of health and habits on the 26th, giving you excellent health luck but also encouraging you to be a bit self-indulgent - especially where good food and good living are concerned.

Aquarius (20 Jan - 18 Feb): The New Moon on the 8th brings an excellent opportunity to bring an issue or a relationship with someone to an end, clearing space and allowing new positive energy to take its place. Jupiter brings great luck for those hoping for pregnancy and children - it also has some really good energies for luck and windfalls but be careful to only gamble what you can afford to lose.

Pisces (19 Feb - 20 Mar): Good luck and abundance planet Jupiter is entering your zone of home and family for the first time in twelve years on the 26th, bringing good fortune for those hoping to buy a house or relocate this year. Family matters are highlighted, and you may experience some beneficial luck through a family member. Your career is highlighted throughout the month.

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

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YOUR FAVOURITE DESTINATION FOR QUALITY LEATHER GOODS AND MORE. WINTER IN-STORE NOW AT LAKE LEATHER. 367 ELIZABETH STREET, N. HOBART FOR HIM | FOR HER | FOR HOME 53

PSYCHOLOGY

SMELLY MIND Words: Annia Baron Back in the day, I couldn’t get enough.

With every spritz, it simultaneously invigorated a sense of optimism and evoked an experience that was sultry and haunting.

The top notes of apple, blue-bell, and cedar, combined with floral tones and hints of amber and musk did something to my brain. It didn’t take long before Dolce and Gabbana’s Light Blue became my perfume of choice. These days, cinnamon is my favourite scent. As is the smell of wet earth when I’m walking through the forest, or the smell of salty seas carried by the wind on a warm afternoon. I love the scent of my man after he’s been outside mowing the grass or the way a book smells when you open it after years of not being read.

Smell is the only fully developed sense when we’re a foetus in the womb, and it remains the most advanced of our senses up until the age of around 10, when sight takes over. Everything our nose inhales is evaluated in the same brain areas used to process emotions and memories, which is why they’re all strongly linked. Smell is crucial for helping us retain important experiences, avoid danger, prevent disease, build relationships, and find a partner. In fact, because we subconsciously evaluate compatibility with pheromones, artificial scents like cologne tend to mask someone’s natural odour, interfering with their sex appeal!

We can differentiate odours well, with around 400 receptor molecules to do the job. But how much attention do you pay to what your nose is taking in? And could we use smell to enhance our wellbeing or more easily respond to stress? Research says yes. For example, mood has been found to improve after exposure to lemon oil1, lavender2, and certain types of wood3.

Different smells have been found to lower blood pressure, strengthen our immune system, and prevent inflammation. One study exposed participants to a scent of 54

their choice (one that elicited a pleasant memory) and a pleasurable but unfamiliar smell that didn’t have any personal meaning. The odours that were self-selected reduced levels of proinflammatory cells that trigger swelling in the body4.

Certain aromas have also been shown to enhance athletic performance and release endorphins. Our sense of smell tends to wane with age, but the good news is, like any muscle in the body, we can apply the use it or lose it principle, and empower our nostrils with a workout through regular, purposeful sniffs. And evidence shows that simply imagining odours lights up the olfactory centres in our brain.

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• Try this: Bring to mind the smell of walking into your local bakery. How does it make you feel? Stay with this for a moment. Now, think of hugging your favourite person in the world and inhaling the scent of their clothes, their skin, or their hair. What feelings does this invite?

Next, imagine smelling the socks you’ve left inside your shoes that were worn after a sweaty work out. What do you feel now? Hmm, perhaps return to the delicious bakery.

If we playfully explore the way that smell influences emotions and our attitude, we can create an assortment of ‘smelly’ enhancers to use any time. For example, when you’re feeling flat and know that you enjoy the smell of citrus such as lemon, go to the kitchen and sniff that yellow ball of sunshine. If you’re feeling a bit edgy and find the smell of floral or sweet things soothing, open some chamomile tea or maple syrup and inhale slowly. If you’re feeling as though you could use a confidence boost and find the smell of mint pleasant and energising, go brush your teeth and revel in the freshness coming into your nostrils as you tend to your molars. Of course, if your snout prefers the odour of stinky socks or the juice at the bottom of your compost bin, go right ahead, use whatever works for you!

You’re encouraged to familiarise yourself with your top three smells and gain clarity on how you can use them to purposefully change your mood. Here are some of my favourites and the role they play for me.

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Cinnamon: for when I sense myself being pulled in various directions but want to feel as though I’m home, relaxed, and with those I love.

Sweet orange: when I’m fatigued, and I want to raise my vibration and physical energies.

Jasmin: to tap into creativity or when I’m seeking inspiration.

Frankincense: when I’m yearning for a deeper sense of connection or acceptance.

Ground coffee beans: when I’m feeling a bit stagnant and desire more adventure.

Once you know what your nose likes, find something with that smell that you can carry in your pocket, or keep in your car, office, or handbag. You don’t need any fancy perfume (no offence to Dolce and Gabbana). It could simply be dried flowers from your garden, essential oils, or herbs and spices from your pantry.

Connecting to our sense of smell is a celebration of life. When we breathe in, and do that with purpose, we are making a choice to be present - with our surroundings, with ourselves and others. Each time you intentionally smell something, you are gifting yourself another opportunity to be open, curious, and appreciative. Get to know your nose. Harness the magnificence of your olfactory powerhouse and start seeing how it can elevate the way you feel, to create the life you desire and deserve.

Full references are available at www.thehobartmagazine.com.au.

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

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URBAN ADVENTURE

EXPLORING THE NEW ZIG ZAG TRACK Words and pictures: Elizabeth Osborne

Want to get active, reduce pollution, or try something new in 2024?

Join the ‘Get BusActive!’ study and receive up to $100 for taking part.

Visit GetBusActive.com.au or scan the code for details On kunanyi / Mount Wellington is a network of bush tracks and trails in Hobart’s backyard. We walked the 100 year old Zig Zag Track to the summit of kunanyi / Mount Wellington on the day it reopened after several years of reconstruction. The track is a short but challenging walk, with spectacular views over the city, the Derwent Estuary, Bruny Island in the south and the Tasman Peninsula in the east.

This study has been approved by the University of Tasmania Human Research Ethics Committee (HREC). If you have concerns or complaints about the conduct of this study, you can contact the Executive Officer of the HREC on +61 3 6226 6254 or email human.ethics@utas.edu.au. The Executive Officer is the person nominated to receive complaints from research participants. You will need to quote H0027961.

We drove the 14.8km from the city to The Springs, on the mountain. The track starts at 966 metres above sea level. Stone steps lead from the carpark to the Zig Zag Track via the Pinnacle Track. Warning signs alert walkers to be prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions, and explain the dangers of walking in alpine regions. When we started the walk, it was 30 degrees celsius in the carpark, but the air cooled rapidly as we climbed.

Semi-retire with confidence

We walked through tunnels of trees on the Pinnacle Track, before turning uphill to the Zig Zag Track. The newly renovated stone work, using local stone, is a work of art in its own right. This track passes through exposed alpine heathlands and forests, amazing natural rock sculptures, dramatic cliff faces, and - always - spectacular views. As we neared the summit, we quickly put on our jackets as chilly winds buffeted us. We were 1257 metres above sea level. We had a natural high from completing the climb, filled with wonder at the vast panorama spread beneath us.

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Scan the code to request a call back from your local super expert or visit spiritsuper.com.au/transition Or reached your preservation age. This is for general information only and doesn't take into account your financial position, personal objectives and needs. Consider these and the PDS and TMD available at spiritsuper.com.au/pds before making a decision. Issuer is Motor Trades Association of Australia Superannuation Fund Pty Ltd (AFSL 238 718, ABN 14 008 650 628). Advice is provided by Quadrant First Pty Ltd (AFSL 284 443, ABN 78 102 167 877).

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Returning by the same track reverses the perspective of the view, with the chance to focus on details we had missed as we climbed. When we reached The Springs, we noticed the heat of the day, in contrast to the cool summit. A coffee at Lost Freight at The Springs refreshed us before we headed home.

If you’re over 591 and still working, a Transition Pension lets you access some of your super before you retire.

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FOOD

TROPHY ROOM

BY NIGHT 342 Argyle Street, North Hobart Open Wednesday to Friday for lunch and dinner, Saturdays for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

When Trophy Room opened last August, it felt like a great addition to the Hobart cafe landscape. Owners Rose and James, originally from Sydney, had been running their excellent Trophy Donuts stand at Farm Gate Market for a while so it was exciting to see their next step unfold as a physical space. Billed as a bistro style cafe/restaurant it’s exactly the sort of place you’d want to have a relaxed lunch. But more recently they opened for nights so it was time to see what an evening service was like.

A gorgeous gluten-free friend booked us in for a Saturday night table. The space was darkened and candlelit, which felt warm and inviting, and a nice counterpoint to how the space feels during the day. GF dining can be hit and miss, I’m told. But walking into Trophy Room, the first thing Rose said to us was “I’ve made a list of all the gluten free options for you!” She enthusiastically took us through the menu and variations - of which there were ample.

I started with a little prawn sando - a crunchy Panko-crumbed prawn sandwiched between soft white bread with iceberg lettuce and a lick of mayo. At the same time, a bountiful plate of shaved mortadella hit the table for us to share. On my previous visit for lunch, I’d enjoyed the mortadella cruller - a deep-fried pastry ring, sliced in half and filled with mortadella. This night though, we forwent the cruller component and just enjoyed the mortadella. This was followed by a beautiful raw tuna dish of thin sliced fish, marinated in a zingy dressing topped with tomatoes and chives, and everyone’s gluten-free favourite - risotto. This version was rich and buttery, with delicious pieces of local lamb.

I had no room for dessert but if I had, the Bombe Alaska would have been the pick (filled with bee pollen icecream and strawberry), and I’ll definitely head back again soon to enjoy that.

QUICK THAI LARB STIR FRY This is a twist on a traditional Thai dish, perfect for a quick weeknight meal. It’s ready in the time it takes to cook some rice. Serve with rice and a side of sauteed beans or greens to get extra veggies in your day.

Serves four.

Ingredients: 1 tbsp peanut oil 500g lean pork or chicken mince 1 stem lemongrass, pale section only, finely chopped, or half a tube of prepared lemongrass pulp (found in the fresh herb section of the supermarket) 2 fresh long green chillies, finely chopped, optional 1 tsp finely grated lemon rind 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice 1 tbsp fish sauce Pinch of sugar 1/3 cup loosely packed fresh coriander leaves 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced Butter or iceberg lettuce leaves, to serve 40g (1/4 cup) finely chopped unsalted roasted peanuts, optional Method: Heat oil in the wok or heavy-based frying pan over high heat. Add the mince, lemongrass and chilli (optional) and cook, breaking up the mince with a wooden spoon, for 5 minutes or until the mince changes colour and is cooked through. Meanwhile, in a small bowl or jug mix together the lemon rind, lemon juice, fish sauce and sugar to form a dressing. Mix well. Once the mince mixture is cooked, stir through the dressing, coriander leaves and onion. Mix well and serve with jasmine or brown rice, lettuce, and topped with peanuts (optional).

Note: The preprepared lemongrass is easy and keeps in the fridge. The recipe works well if you double the quantities for a big batch. Refrigerate and use leftovers within three days.

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A life in the balance.

Twelve people.

One verdict.

T W BASED E LV O N T H E A E MO N G VIE RY M

EN

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HISTORY

TASSIE SUPREME COURT TURNS 200 Words: Justice Stephen Estcourt AM On 10 May, the Supreme Court of Tasmania, the third and equal arm of the Tasmanian Government, will celebrate its 200th anniversary.

The Supreme Court of Van Diemen’s Land, as it was then called, first sat on 10 May 1824 making it the oldest Supreme Court in Australia by seven days. John Lewes Pedder arrived in Hobart Town with his wife, Maria, aboard the barque Hibernia on 15 March 1824.

A flag, known as signal 42, was raised at Mt Nelson, signifying that an important person was arriving. LieutenantGovernor Sorell thought that person was his replacement, Lieutenant-Governor Arthur, on board the Adrian. That was not the case.

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In his possession Pedder had a document, known as Letters Patent authorising the establishment of a Supreme Court in Van Diemen’s Land. It is a sobering perspective that when Chief Justice Pedder took his seat as the first Chief Justice of the Supreme Court several weeks later, on 10 May 1824: • Transportation, which was to continue for another 29 years, had swelled the convict population of the settlement from 600 to 6,000 over the previous

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eight years and would continue to a peak of 28,500 in 1848; The first “guests” of His Majesty King George IV would not be housed at Port Arthur in any form for another six years; The “Model Prison” there would not be built there for another 25 years; Lieutenant-Governor Arthur’s shameful foolishness, the Black Line, as it was coined by contemporary journalist Henry Melville, lay some six years in the future - October 1830; Trial by jury as we know it today in criminal cases would not be in place until 1840; More convicted criminals were being executed by public hanging than at any other time before or after in Australian history; and Representative government for the newly-named Tasmania would not

arrive for another 32 years on 1 January 1856.

It took approximately five months for the similar Letters Patent to be delivered to Hobart Town by Chief Justice Pedder on board the Hibernia, and to Sydney Town by Chief Justice Forbes on the Guilford. Both vessels arrived at their destinations in March 1824, but the reading of the Charter at Government House in Tasmania, and in the marketplace in Hobart, as well as the first sitting of the Supreme Court in Murray Street, all occurred some days before the Letters Patent authorising the establishment of the Supreme Court of New South Wales were proclaimed in Sydney on 17 May 1824.

The Court will mark its bicentenary with a ceremonial sitting, a display of memorabilia and regalia, and walking tours between the three sites the Court has occupied.

After the ceremonial sitting there will be the launch of a book written

by Justice Stephen Estcourt AM titled From Convicts to Computers - Two Hundred Years of the Tasmanian Supreme Court.

The judges of the Court welcome Hobartians to join in the celebration of its anniversary. More info via www.supremecourt.tas.gov.au.

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Sunrise in Mount Wellington

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Rosellas enjoying the beautiful afternoon sun on the domain by Shelley Parkinson

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EXHIBITIONS AT ROSNY FARM 2 - 19 May @ Rosny Cottage

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