NEW NEW NEW

Pork knuckle and pretzel lovers will be loving the new Bierhalle (124 Davey St, Hobart) in the space once home to the Aberfeldy, Bridie O’Riellys, Hotel Soho and more recently, The Chowk. It’s the work of Chris Cooper, who is behind Preachers as well as co-owner of Boodle Beasley and Last Rites Brewing. New Town is welcom­ing Abraham Mezze Bar (30 Cross Street, New Town), the definition of a neighbourhood bar. Sisters and owners, Maggie and Marion Abraham, are serving Lebanese vegetarian mezze using produce grown in the kitch­en garden onsite and their property at Molesworth and make their own breads, pickles and preserves. Is this your new favourite CBD hangout? Hidden Corner (52 Collins Street, Market Pl, Hobart) is now open from 11.30am–3pm Monday to Thursday and 11.30am–late Friday and Saturday. Matcha lovers now have a new spot to enjoy. Harbour Matcha (Brooke Street Pier, Hobart) has your classic iced and hot options using ceremonial grade matcha, as well as some new combos to try, like banana bread and gingerbread matcha. There’s lots of food related activity happening in Liverpool Street at the moment, keep a lookout for Swirl Stacks (127 Liv­erpool Street, Hobart), a new fro-yo offering in the city. The team behind Lil Hong Kong (134 York Street, Launceston) boast Michelin star kitch­en experience and are keen to share their delicious Hong Kong cuisine with Launnie. Try warming dishes such as handmade prawn spring rolls, scallion oil chicken and black pepper beef spaghetti, alongside Hong Kong style milk tea and salty lemon soda.

Studio Selkie (15 Castray Esplanade, Battery Point) is an art studio open to all – pay an entry fee and you can work on your own projects, use their mate­rials, or buy a mini project. Perfect for non-artists, crafters or those seeking a bit of community. Check their socials for opening hours and projects. JD Sports Eastlands (Shop G031, Eastlands, 26 Bligh St, Rosny Park) has opened a new Eastern Shore outlet – shoes, clothes, socks, vibes galore. Australian luxury spa group BODHI is expanding to Hobart with the launch of a new BODHI Bathhouse + Spa at The Tasman Hotel in September.

GOODWOOD’S 10 MILLION CONTAINERS

The Goodwood Recycle Rewards Depot – the largest container deposit depot receiv­ing 10c return drinks containers in southern Tas – has just clocked ten million containers returned. The depot is run by Social Enter­prise Employment and Diversity (SEED), a not-for-profit providing training and jobs for people with disability. Data from the Department of Natural Resources and Environment show drink container litter has decreased by 50% in the year that the container deposit scheme has been running.

BEN LOMOND ACCESSIBILITY

Ben Lomond National Park will soon be more accessible year-round, with plans underway for a new accessible walkway and birds-eye view plat­form. The plans include a crow’s nest overlooking the Ford River Valley and a viewing platform to show off Jacob’s Ladder and its dramatic doler­ite landscape.

LIVING MY BEST LIFE

Living My Best Life is a touring art exhibition featuring the work of Tasmanian artists with disability. The works are a big mix: think music, fur­niture design, printmaking, painting and everything in between. See it, for free, at:

• Burnie Library: 17 June to 14 July
• Queenstown Library: 16 July to 5 August
• Launceston Library: 7 August to 4 September
• Huonville Library: 7 September – 5 October
• Rosny Library: 29 October – 27 November

SPIRIT OF TASMANIA PAUSE

In October, TT-Line will pause all Spirit of Tasmania ferry services for seven days to allow for the changing over of vessels. The scheduled pause is causing some in the north to worry about the impact on the Deloraine Craft Fair and associated tourism. The Deloraine Craft Fair is the largest in the southern hemisphere, with over 25,000 locals and tourists over the fair’s weekend. Franklin MP Peter George recently told parliament: “it’s a crucial week for the economy of the north west and the whole state” and asked the Minister for infrastructure and Transport, Kerry Vincent, whether he would direct TT-Line to review the pause. Vincent did not commit to changing the pause, but did say the schedule was under review. Let’s hope they keep the old Spirits nearby until a decent transition period is complete.

CRIME DOWN IN NORTH

New crime stats paint a mixed picture for the north of the state. General crime in northern Tasmania is down 7% in the past year, but youth offending and driving infringements are up. Northern District Commander Marco Ghedini said the 7% drop was “a fantastic result” and translated to about 700 fewer offences. Property offences are down 10.4%, business burglaries are down 35.6%, while shoplifting was down 15.4%. Commander Ghedini said officers had stepped up checks on offenders who were out on bail. Youth prosecutions rose 14%, and road safety infringement notices are up 31.7%, which Commander Ghedini called “exceptionally disappointing”. He then urged people to keep reporting crime to Crime Stoppers on 131 444.

WATER RESTRICTIONS EASED

Many of the water restrictions across the state have been lifted thanks to decent re­cent rains. TasWater Head of Communi­cations and Engagement, Liz Hafner, said dam storage was back to strong levels. “The recent rain has been extremely wel­come, and improvements to supply levels in most of our catchments have had significant improvement,” Mrs Hafner said. Restrictions were lifted in Orford and Triabunna, Oatlands, Scamander and Whitemark. Lady Barron on Flinders Is­land, which uses groundwater bores, will remain on Stage 1 water restrictions until further notice while TasWater continues monitoring local conditions. Mrs Hafner said TasWater still encourages residents, visitors and businesses across the state to be mindful of their water usage. “Al­though this current rain is welcomed, the Bureau of Meteorology is closely moni­toring the possibility of a Super El Nino system in the coming months, which would mean drier than normal condi­tions, warmer temperatures and increased pressure on our water systems.

“We will continue to monitor conditions closely and work with communities to encourage sustainable water use,” Mrs Hafner said.

E-BIKE LIBRARY SUCCESS

The City of Hobart is calling their free E-bike library a success in its first year. Since launching in May 2025, 144 borrowers have taken part in the program, collectively riding more than 9,800 kilometres. The library, which gives locals the chance to try an e-bike and see if they might like to buy one, has reportedly led to an uptick in local interest and purchases of such bikes. Local retailer Teros reported that around one in five cargo bike customers had first tried an e-bike through the library and a general 15 per cent increase in e-bike sales over the past year. Residents can borrow an e-bike for up to two weeks free of charge (bond applies), with a range of styles available. To book a bike, head to www.hobartebikelibrary.com.au

Meanwhile, a public tender is being progressed for a new shared e-bike operator in Hobart. Current provider Beam has advised it will not extend its existing permit, which expired on 30 June 2026, and will also not sub­mit a tender for the new e‑bike‑only contract, following the Hobart City Council decision in April this year. Services are expected to begin from mid-August.

EXPLORE CLARENCE BY FOOT

Have you heard of rogaining? No it’s not a hair product, but a fun way to explore the outdoors. Rogaining Tasmania is hosting the Explore Clarence Metrogaine – a four hour map and compass navigational challenge in Clarence for walkers and runners on 6 September. The event centre is Howrah Sunshine Community Centre with quiz questions set at quirky locations from Rose Bay to Tranmere, including Clarence Plains and Rokeby. Participants will explore tracks and trails, reserves, parks and beaches and discover some interesting facts, art installations and historical places that can be found in the area. Families, couples and friends are all welcome to make up teams of 2-5 people across a range of age and gender classes (under 23 to over 65, plus family and novice categories). Maps are available from 0800 to plan your route; the event starts at 1000 and ends at 1400, followed by afternoon tea. Pre-entry is required at www.rt.asn.au by 28 August.

NEW GOLF COURSE UNDER DEVELOPMENT NEAR LAUNCESTON

Tasmania is set to strengthen its reputation as a top golf destination with the opening of a new championship 18- hole course at Country Club Tasmania in summer 2026–27. Designed by golf course architect Mike DeVries, the course forms part of a major redevelopment of the Prospect Vale resort and features a parkland-style layout winding through creeks, lakes and mature trees. With several holes already complete and preview rounds generating interest among golfing enthusiasts.

BIRD FLU ALERT

The deadly H5 strain of bird flu has reached mainland Australia, and Biose­curity Tasmania states that Tasmanians should expect it to arrive here too, most likely through wild birds migrating from places where outbreaks continue to occur. The Department of Natural Resources and Environment website has the following information.

Clinical signs of avian influenza in live birds:

• breathing problems like coughing or sneezing
• circling
• tremors and incoordination
• twisted neck
• inability to stand or fly
• swelling in the head, neck and eyes
• change of colour or cloudiness in the eyes.

How to report sick or dead animals:

• If you see large numbers (more than five) of sick or dead birds or other wildlife, phone the Emergency Animal Disease hotline as soon as possible on 1800 675 888.
• Record the type of animal, num­bers, location, time, what you see, and take photos or videos if possible.
• You can report small numbers of sick or dead birds or other wildlife through an online form at nre.tas.gov.au/biosecurity-tasmania
• It is important you do not touch sick or dead animals.
• If you must handle sick or dead birds, you can help protect your­self by wearing PPE which should include a mask, goggles and gloves.
• Wash your hands thoroughly after handling any birds and equipment.

CALLS FOR GREATER AWARENESS OF ELDER ABUSE

Relationships Australia Tasmania is encouraging Tasmanians to recognise the signs of elder abuse and help create safer, more connected and re­spectful communities for older people. According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, around one in six older Australians experienced elder abuse in the past year, with family members responsible for around half of reported cases.

Rising living costs and Tasmania’s housing shortage are placing significant pressure on many families. Adult chil­dren may return to live with ageing par­ents or become financially dependent on them. While these arrangements are often entered into with goodwill, they can sometimes lead to conflict, pressure, a loss of independence and, in some cases, abuse.

Signs of elder abuse can vary, but may include injuries such as bruises, fractures or cuts, unexplained weight loss, poor personal hygiene, the sudden disappearance of personal belongings, social isolation, unusual bank with­drawals, pressure to sell property or unexpected changes to wills or power of attorney arrangements.

CEO of Relationships Australia Tasma­nia, Dr Michael Kelly, said elder abuse can be difficult to identify and even harder to talk about, particularly when it involves someone we know, trust or care about. “Older Tasmanians deserve to feel safe, respected and valued in their relationships and communities,” Dr Kelly said. “Increasing awareness of elder abuse is important. When we recognise the signs, we can respond and help protect the dignity, wellbeing and independence of older people. A connected and respectful Tasmania is one where older people can live safely, maintain meaningful relationships and feel a genuine sense of belonging.”

Relationships Australia Tasmania’s Elder Relationship Service supports older people and their families who are experiencing relationship difficul­ties and concerns relating to ageing and wellbeing through counselling and mediation.

TELCOS NOW VERIFYING TEXT MESSAGES

Lots of changes came in on 1 July, but one you may have missed is that telcos had to make changes to how SMS and MMS sender names and Sender IDs are displayed. A Sender ID is the ‘from’ name of a message sender, such as a business name, that’s displayed at the top of text messages to show you who the message is from. For example, any messages you receive from Telstra will display the Sender ID ‘Telstra’ or TelstraPlus’ depending on what the message is about. You might start seeing ‘Unverified’ texts now. In order to prevent fraudsters mimicking legitimate businesses, the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA), requires all senders who use a Sender ID for SMS or MMS to reg­ister it by 1 July. Telcos now meant to check if Sender IDs are registered. If they’re not, their SMS or MMS will be delivered from the name ‘Unverified’. An ‘Unverified’ message might mean the sender is not legitimate, so it’s a good idea to stay alert for potential scam or fraudulent messages. Check in with your telco for more information.

RIVER OPENS UP IN BRIDGEWATER

Boats can now travel from Hobart to New Norfolk for the first time since the 1940s thanks to the demolition of the old Bridgewater Bridge. Parts of the old bridge will become artworks on the river banks. The convict-built causeway has been kept in place and will be revegetat­ed. The $13 million demolition project was led by Hazell Brothers in a joint venture with Brodie Marine and Civil.

CLARENCE COTY OPEN

If you live in Clarence and want to nominate someone for a Citizen of the Year Award, you have until 20 July. The categories include: Citizen of the Year, Senior Citizen of the Year, Young Citizen of the Year, Organisation or Community Event of the Year, Community Harmony and Local Hero. www.cc.tas.gov.au

MISSING SOCCER GOALS

Across Hobart, soccer goals have gone missing. Hobart United FC recently announced they were removing the remaining goals from their training ground at Queens Walk Oval following the theft of one full sized goal and half of another. In response to this news on social media one commenter said that the New Town Eagles also had two goals stolen from Cornelian Bay at the start of the year, and the Central Region Junior Football Association had lost seven goals. It’s thought the thefts were carried out so that the goal materials could be sold as scrap metal.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, SES!

Huge thanks to Tasmania SES, which just celebrated 50 years of service to the Tasmanian community. Tasmania SES Acting Executive Director Luke Flanagan said since it was established in 1976, the SES had grown into an essential part of Tasmania’s emergency management net­work. “Often working in hazardous and unpredictable conditions, our SES mem­bers have demonstrated professionalism, adaptability, and courage,” Mr Flanagan said. “Their actions have not only saved lives but have also helped communities endure and recover from some of the most challenging events in Tasmania’s history.” Mr Flanagan said local SES units provide a vital link between communities and emergency response, drawing strength from local knowledge, teamwork, and a deep sense of responsibility,” he said. “Volunteers and staff from diverse back­grounds come together with a shared pur­pose to promote and support community safety and resilience to floods and storms, respond effectively to storm, flood and other emergencies, and to enable a smooth transition from response to recovery.” In 1976 the Tasmania SES replaced the Civil Defence and Emergency Services, which had operated through the 1960s and early 1970s. If you’re interested in becoming an SES volunteer head to www.ses.tas.gov.au/volunteer or contact your nearest SES Regional Headquarters.