Six Russell Bakes (6 Russell Crescent, Sandy Beach) has been a hotly anticipated Hobart opening. Orchestrated by Kobi Ruzicka (of Dier Makr and Lucinda) in partnership with the family behind Me Wah Restaurant, this new Sandy Bay bakery/cafe offers pastries, bread and épicerie foods such as anchovies, cultured butter and cheese. An authentic 9-seat ramen bar has opened in the CBD. Little Borneo (322 Elizabeth Street, North Hobart) is now open in the ex-Filoxenia space in North Hobart, brought to you by the Sawak team, serving a Malaysian-fusion menu. Ranita Ramen Bar (206 Liverpool Street, Hobart) serves ramen with homemade noodles, open Tuesday-Friday 11am-5pm. No takeaway as yet. Hobart Vietnamese chain, Saigon Express (95 Liverpool Street, Hobart), has opened a new store in the heart of the city, its fifth overall. Ideal for takeaway or a lunch in-store, with classic Vietnamese dishes from pho to noodle salads. That’s not the only new Vietnamese opening to look out for – Ly Quán (85 Harrington Street, Hobart) promises to bring the joy of Vietnamese street food to every dish and drink, with a big focus on comfort food. The Bar Wa crew are opening a new casual dining and bar venue, Lost in Asia (131 Murray Street, Hobart), in the ex-Dana Eating House space. If it’s anything like Bar Wa, expect it to be a winner. Australian burger chain Grill’d (349 Elizabeth Street, North Hobart) has opened its first store in Tasmania. Known for their ‘healthier’ burgers, you can dine-in and takeaway.

Zimmah Coffee took over The Stagg’s CBD space a little while back to create Zimmah Coffee – City (18 Elizabeth Street, Hobart). Lil’ Will’s (100 Campbell Street, Hobart) is a new spot for a quick bite and a coffee, with a particular point of pride being their brekky rolls. After extensive renovations, the Kingston Hotel recently unveiled their new eatery, Darcy’s Bay & Eatery (14 Channel Highway, Kingston). Perfect for a date night or family dinner, Darcy’s promises a casual dining experience in the heart of Kingston, as well as a bar seating area for a drink and nibble. Sandwich bar Monty’s Deli (26 Bligh Street, Rosny Park) has opened in Eastlands shopping centre, on the second floor. Head here for sumptuous sandwiches, gooey desserts, and coffee. Local coffee chain Banjo’s Bakery Café (162 Brighton Road, Brighton) has fired up its ovens for a new store next to the new Brighton IGA. Hollow Tree Cafe (860 Cambridge Road, Cambridge) has opened in the ex-Horseshoe Inn space, serving coffee, breakfast, brunch, and an all-day menu. Tolpuddle Vineyard Tasting Room (37 Back Tea Tree Road, Richmond) has just opened, an intimate space overlooking the award-winning vineyard where you can try their current releases. Bookings are essential. Port Arthur Historic Site’s restaurant, 1830 Restaurant & Bar (Historic Site, Arthur Highway, Port Arthur) has reopened with a new menu and look, including sweeping views of the penitentiary, and can be enjoyed with a side serve of ghost tours. Launceston’s got a new sweet treat spot in Le Petit Chou (76 George Street, Launceston), who specialise in French pasties, particularly choux pastry. Expect indulgent rose choquettes and savoury blue cheese gougeres. Self-described as the home of ‘useful and indulgent things’, Halfway South (31B Murray Street, Hobart) fulfills that promise.

TASSIE GOLDEN GIRL’S ATHLETIC STATUS CONFIRMED

Our recent cover star Ariarne Titmus, a multiple Olympic champion, has made history as the first person to be named Tasmanian Athlete of the Year four times. The award comes after the Launceston-born swimmer won two golds and two silvers at the Paris Olympics, adding to her impressive collection of two golds, one silver, and one bronze from the Tokyo Games. Other athletes on the shortlist included Paris Olympians Eddie Ockenden, Max Giuliani, Alanna Smith, and Sarah Hawe.

HAVE A HULL OF A TIME

Boat and maritime enthusiasts of ages should mark their calendars and set a course for the Australian Wooden Boat Festival, which runs from 7-10 February. It’s one of Tasmania’s largest free events and the largest celebration of wooden boats and maritime culture in the southern hemisphere, attracting visitors from around Australia and the world. Founded in 1994, the festival is held biennially in Hobart, spanning the entire waterfront. This year it will feature a stunning collection of wooden vessels, from historic tall ships and classic yachts to traditional fishing boats. Visitors will enjoy on-water displays, boat cruises and tours, symposium talks, workshops, cooking demos, exhibitions, theatre, film, live music at the festival tavern, delicious food and drink, and a dedicated kids’ maritime precinct with shaded areas and plenty of activities. Ships ahoy!

ROOTING FOR DENMARK

Tasmania’s connection to Queen Mary of Denmark was celebrated recently with a tree-planting ceremony at Long Beach, Sandy Bay. A blue gum, Tasmania’s floral emblem, was planted near the schools Queen Mary attended as a child. Around the same time in Copenhagen, Queen Mary joined a similar ceremony where an oak tree, Denmark’s national tree, was planted in Faelledparken. These joint ceremonies highlight the bond between Hobart and Copenhagen.

FROM OLYMPIAN TO MENTOR

Tasmania’s next generation of hockey players are about to learn from one of the greats. Olympian and Tassie hockey star Eddie Ockenden will be joining the Tasmanian Institute of Sport to deliver its new junior program and support the senior program. This comes after his decision to retire from international hockey after more than 450 games. At the recent Paris Olympics, he became the sport’s first five-time Olympian and the first Tasmanian-born flag-bearer, and was Hockey Australia’s player of the year in 2010, 2014 and 2015. The future of Tassie hockey is looking bright.

LAUDERDALE PRIMARY SCHOOL WORKS COMPLETE

Construction of the $6.5 million redevelopment of Lauderdale Primary School is now complete. The major upgrades include four general learning areas, a new playground, paved seating areas, a new edible garden and natural play zone. Minister for Education, Jo Palmer, said, “Lauderdale Primary School is one of the fastest growing schools on Hobart’s Eastern Shore, and this redevelopment will cater for the increasing number of students.” The new landscaping and artworks at Lauderdale Primary School are expected to be finalised early this year.

TASSIE SUPERSTARS OF STEM

Dr Jane Younger, a scientist studying the effects of climate change and disease on Antarctic wildlife, and Dr Meredith Castles, a technologist teaching people about science through video gaming channels, both of the University of Tasmania, have been named as two of Australia’s newest Superstars of STEM. This prestigious program takes 60 scientists, technologists, engineers and mathematicians and gives them the skills they need to step into the media spotlight as STEM experts. They’ll also do hundreds of school visits to encourage young people into a future in science and technology.

KNOW YOUR MEDICAL CARE OPTIONS THIS SUMMER Summer is a traditionally busy time for hospitals and the health system at large, so the Department of Health is encouraging Tasmanians to be aware of medical treatment options. All Tasmanians who need emergency care should call Triple Zero (000) or go to the nearest emergency department (ED). There are also community-based health services that can offer fast advice or treatment for non-emergency care needs, such as the five Medicare Urgent Care Clinics across Tasmania. They offer bulk-billed healthcare for urgent health issues without the need for an appointment, every day of the week. Healthdirect (1800 022 222) is available 24 hours a day and can provide advice on whether you can manage your condition at home, book an appointment with a GP or need an alternative care option. The Care@ home service provides around the clock virtual care for patients with COVID-19 and other respiratory illnesses, and they can be contacted on 1800 973 363. Access Mental Health (1800 332 388) supports Tasmanians with mental health support, triage and referral to other services as appropriate, and they’re available 24 hours a day. For more information about non-emergency care options available in Tasmania, visit www.health.tas.gov.au.

FIRST NEW TASSIE PRIMARY SCHOOL IN TEN YEARS Construction on Legana Primary School near Launceston is now complete and ready to welcome students in Term 1, 2025. It’s the first Tasmanian Government primary school to be built in more than a decade. “Legana is one of Launceston’s fastest growing areas, and this brand new school will support the community as it continues to grow,” the Premier Jeremy Rockliff said. The facilities include contemporary learning spaces, outdoor areas, and an onsite community oral health clinic. The school will be able to accommodate 350 students from Kindergarten to Year 6.

TASSIE’S OLD GROWTH FORESTS FEATURE IN INTERNATIONAL DOCO

Recently the ABC premiered an hour-long documentary called The Forest, which can now be viewed on ABC iview. It tells the story of Tom Crowther, an ecologist with a plan to save the world by restoring the planet’s forests. In the doco, there’s a segment where world-leading forest expert Professor David Lindenmayer, from the Australian National University, talks about Tasmania’s old growth forests. He states that old growth forests are twice as fire resistant as new farmed forests, and the amount of carbon old growth forests capture is far greater than new farmed forests too. He shared that it’s a ‘travesty’ that anyone would want to log them. This is timely given recent news that the Tasmanian Government could open up 39,000 hectares of forests for logging in the northeast and northwest of the state. 6,364 hectares of which Sustainable Timber Tasmania describes as “old growth”.

NEW BREASTSCREEN TASMANIA CLINIC OPENS IN ROSNY

A new breast screening clinic providing life-saving cancer detection services is now open in Rosny. The BreastScreen Tasmania Clinic is the third permanent clinic of its kind in Tasmania. Beyond expanding the availability of such a service, it will also allow for more BreastScreen Tasmania’s Mobile Screening Units to visit rural and regional locations throughout the year. “Accessing free screening and assessment on time is so important, because the evidence shows early detection of breast cancer significantly increases the chance of recovery and survival,” Minister for Health, Jacquie Petrusma said. “The new Rosny BreastScreen Tasmania Clinic will increase access to mammography services and screening rates in the rapidly growing Clarence and Sorell local government areas.” BreastScreen Tasmania offers free screening mammograms and follow-up assessment services to all eligible Tasmanians aged over 40, with those aged 50-74 years in particular strongly encouraged to participate. The new Rosny site is located at Shop 1, 26 Bayfield Street, Rosny Park.

SENSORY SLAM DUNK FOR JACKIES’ FANS

The Tasmania JackJumpers have introduced sensory packs for all home games, which will support fans with sensory challenges. Each pack includes a weighted blanket, noise-cancelling headphones, a fidget spinner, sunglasses, and earplugs. The packs, which are available to both adults and children, were designed in partnership with St.Lukes Health, with input from an occupational therapist. The ultimate aim is to create a more comfortable game-day experience for those who need it. They’re available from the box office at MyState Bank Arena, are free to borrow, with just ID required. They must be returned after the game. There are plans underway for quiet spaces at the arena next season.

FASCINATING SCIENCE FOR THE FAMILY ACROSS TASMANIA

A travelling science exhibition called Fascinating Science is coming to Tasmanian libraries this summer. Fascinating Science is free and interactive, allowing families to explore scientific principles in a fun, hands-on way, from optical illusions to the power of magnets. The exhibition by Questacon, the National Science and Technology Centre in Canberra, will visit libraries over the coming months. The libraries and their dates are: St Helens/Scottsdale/ George Town (3 January-17 January); Oatlands and Sorell (20 January-3 February); Huonville and Kingston (4 February-14 February); Burnie (17 February- 4 March); Queenstown (18 February- 5 March); Smithton (19 February-6 March); Devonport and Ulverstone (6 March-20 March); and Launceston (7 March-21 March). No bookings are required, just walk on in.

A HAPPY MCHAPPY DAY

Aussies came out in droves for silly socks and reversible bucket hats on McHappy Day, raising $6.03 million for Ronald McDonald House Charities and families. The donations equated to over 37,600 nights of accommodation for families of seriously ill or injured children. There were no grimaces to be found on McHappy Day, only smiles and, well, Grimace.

SAUNA FOR LONG BEACH

What could be better than a dip in the water at Sandy Bay’s Long Beach? A dip in the water AND time in a sauna! The City of Hobart has commenced an expression of interest process to select a commercial operator for a temporary sauna for the winter months at the south end of Long Beach. The sauna would operate from April to October, hopefully drawing more people to the beach over the quiet months. The selected operator will get a one-year licence with the potential for an extension.

TASSIE CONTAINER DEPOSIT SCHEME INCHING CLOSER

This year should finally see a Tasmanian container deposit scheme launched. Tas- Recycle Limited has been announced as the coordinator of the scheme. Recycle Rewards will give Tasmanians a 10 cent refund for any eligible drink container returned to any of 49 designated refund points in the state. With drink containers making up to 45 percent of Tasmania’s litter it is hoped that Recycle Rewards will reduce this by almost 50 per cent, and double recycling rates of eligible containers. TasRecycle is a not-for-profit entity formed by Lion Pty Ltd, Coca- Cola Europacific Partners and Asahi Beverages to bid to become the scheme co-ordinator. The scheme is due to begin halfway through this year.

TOLOSA PARK TRANSFORMED

Glenorchy’s Tolosa Park just got a $6.2 million upgrade and is one step closer to reopening to the public. TasWater has officially handed the site back to the Glenorchy City Council, marking the finish of their dam redevelopment project. This included tearing down part of the dam wall and works to turn the area into a more open park with water features, landscaping, and grassy spaces. Now, the council will move on to the next phase, which involves setting up walking trails across the site, plus some minor landscaping and trail work throughout the summer. The plan is to turn the area into a park for recreation and events, with shelters, picnic spots, BBQs, boardwalks, and play equipment. The two reservoir tanks will also get a makeover this year, with designs chosen by the community. On top of that, about 3,500 hours of planting have gone into revegetation, with plants coming from local nurseries.

NEW NINE-STOREY BUILDING APPROVED FOR HOBART

The Hobart City Council has approved a new nine-storey mixed-use building at 25 Watchorn Street and 116 Bathurst Street, near In the Hanging Garden. The development will feature a combination of retail and office spaces, with room for 16 car parking spaces and bicycle storage for 38 bikes. The building will rise to a maximum height of 40.5 metres, with a total gross floor area of 13,733 square metres. It is unclear when construction will begin.

UTI AND PILL PHARMACY VISITS REDUCE PRESSURE ON TASSIE HOSPITALS AND GPS

Since March 2024, more than 5,000 Tasmanian women have been treated for Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) through their pharmacist, freeing up space for GPs and hospitals. This is thanks to the regulatory changes that were introduced in March that allowed local Tasmanian pharmacists to assess and treat women for uncomplicated UTIs. More than 130 pharmacies across the island are now participating in this program. Similarly, since July the Oral Contraceptive Pill Resupply Initiative has allowed pharmacists to safely extend the supply of the oral contraceptive pill for an additional 12 months when a prescription expires. These changes are part of the Tasmanian Government’s response to an independent report which recommended expanding the services provided by pharmacists.

NEW LIBRARY HOURS RELEASED

15 libraries across Tasmania are extending their hours to better suit the needs of the community. Some of the significant changes include opening on Saturday at George Town Library, Smithton Library and New Norfolk Library, and opening on Sunday at Launceston Library and Hobart Library. The new hours will start from 3 February. For the full lift of updated library hours, visit www.libraries.tas.gov.au.

MAKE A SPLASH WITH THE JACKJUMPERS WATER STATIONS

At the start of 2024, the Tasmania JackJumpers announced a partnership with TasWater to roll out a statewide refill and reuse water program. Now, the installation of the 30 water stations is complete. This was done to highlight the importance of healthy hydration and reduce Tasmanians’ dependence on single-use plastic. The new refill stations are fitted with pet bowls so no one is left out.

WE ARE ALL A LITTLE DR. DOLITTLE

Do you talk to your pet as if they were a person? You’re not alone. A new survey has revealed that most Australians talk to their dogs and cats like they are humans. A poll of 1000 Australians from pet insurer Budget Direct found that 93% of respondents said they spoke to their dog or cat as if they were a human member of the family, leaving 7% saying they never engaged with their dog or cat on a human level. So, why the heart-to-heart talks? The top reason, shared by 72% of respondents, was that their pet is simply “part of the family.” For another 36%, their pet is more like a child or best friend, while 32% believe their furry companion actually understands them. And 28% say their pet is a good listener. If you got your pet a present this past Christmas, you’ll be joining the 37% who also shower their furry friends with gifts for Christmas and birthdays. Maybe one day they’ll talk back, though if that happens you should probably see a doctor.

FISH STOCKS DEPLETED

Unsustainable levels of fishing have depleted stocks of the most popular commercial and recreational scalefish species in Tasmania. This was revealed by the Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies (IMAS), who recently released its latest Tasmanian Scalefish Fishery Assessment. Using commercial and recreational catch data from the 2022/23 season, stocks from 22 different species were assessed. “The results reveal more than half of the fisheries species assessed remained healthy with 11 species classified as sustainable,” lead author and IMAS research fellow Dr Ruth Sharples said. “But there is high fishing pressure on the most popular species including Sand Flathead, Southern Calamari and Striped Trumpeter.” The data suggests that Southern Calamari in the South-East and East Coast have been depleted below critical levels. Meanwhile, small flatheads are abundant, but legal-sized individuals are rare. Hopefully with the stricter fishing restrictions now in place, these species will recover.

FILM A SHORT, WIN A PRIZE

Submissions for the Very Short Film Festival (VSFF) are now open until 1 April. You can submit a short film (two to five minutes long) on the theme “Seed” in any genre. It’s open to Australian filmmakers of all ages, and entry is free. Finalists get mentoring, flights, and accommodation to attend the premiere gala and screening – the location and dates have yet to be announced – plus a chance for their film to tour around the country. Winners will also receive awards and cash prizes. There’s even a special junior category for high school and primary school students, which can be entered individually or with a group or class. For more information, visit www.veryshortfilmfestival.com.au.

PEDAL TO THE PEAK THIS SUMMER

Launceston Mountain Bike Club recently announced the return of a challenge at Ben Lomond open to all cyclists. The King and Queen of the Mountain race will take place on Sunday 16 February. This 17.7km gravel road race will challenge cyclists with an uphill course that climbs 1050m of elevation to the top of Ben Lomond, on the highest road in Tasmania – Jacob’s Ladder. There will be $500 cash prizes for the first male and first female across the line, as well as $300 cash prizes for the first male and first female in both the Juniors and Masters (40+) categories. Registration is now open, and cyclists of all levels can sign up. In other biking on Ben Lomond news, the Ben Lomond Alpine Resort has announced the launch of an e-bike rental service, offering a new way to explore the park. The e-bikes are designed to accommodate riders aged 10 and above.

RISE OF THE WATER GUARDIANS

TasWater recently revealed six Tasmanian animal mascots to engage and educate Tasmanians on the importance of protecting and conserving our water. These Water Guardians are Winnie the wombat, Laurel the platypus, Jasper the eastern quoll, Dan the caddisfly larva, Flynn the wedge-tailed eagle, and Paddy the pademelon. These critters will be a part of a new education program which will include three children’s storybooks and online teacher resources, to inspire the next generation. The characters were all designed by Tasmanian artist Rachel Tribout, known for such titles as Saving the Spotted Handfish. TasWater General Manager of Customer and Community Matt Balfe said, ‘’There’s a common misconception in Tasmania that conserving water isn’t necessary.” He said research shows that there is a disconnect for people between the water coming from their taps, and the Tassie environment. “Increasing water literacy within the community helps residents make informed decisions about water conservation and how their water use impacts the environment,” he said. All schools in Tasmania will have access to TasWater’s online water literacy resources by Term 2, 2025.

GRANTS FOR NATURE

Two groups from Tasmania were recently awarded a grant from Landcare Australia. The first is Mount Roland Land Care, who were awarded just over $10,000 for their project Why is the Giant Freshwater Crayfish crossing the road?, a new approach to conservation aimed at reducing the impact on the Giant Freshwater Crayfish. The other recipient is Dolphin Sands Community Association, awarded $5,940 for a community project targeting weeds in Swan River and Moulting Lagoon. These two Tasmanian recipients were among 26 nationally to receive grants, the goal of which is to revive nature, boost biodiversity and support volunteers.

STREET ART FEST FOR LAUNNIE

A new Street Art Festival might be on the way for Launceston next year. City of Launceston Mayor Matthew Garwood proposed the festival through a Notice of Motion recently, which the rest of the Councillors supported. The event would showcase the work of Northern Tasmania’s street artists and mitigate graffiti vandalism. “In addition to a dedicated festival, we’re also interested in potentially identifying a street art laneway which could act as a legal street art gallery, similar to the street art walls we have at Royal Park,” Mayor Garwood said.

DESIGNS RELEASED FOR NEW LAUNCESTON HOSPICE

Concept designs for a new hospice in Launceston have been released by the federal government. The $20 million facility, funded by the Federal government, will be located at the Allambi Building on Howick Street. It will offer at least 10 beds to support people with life-limiting conditions, as well as their families and carers. The facility was designed to replicate a home-like environment. The plan includes features that promote dignity and easy access to the garden and courtyard. Federal Health Minister Mark Butler welcomed the design, saying, “Giving people the greatest possible dignity and comfort at the end of life is so important, not only for the individual but for their families as well.” There will be community information sessions and consultations about the hospice early this year. Construction is set to start in mid- 2025, with the facility expected to begin accepting patients by late 2026.

HOW CLEAN IS YOUR WATER?

It’s timely to note in light of the recent Cadbury sewage spill, Hobartians can check the water quality at our local beaches before jumping in for a summer dip. The 2024-2025 summer Beach Watch season is now open, with online daily, weekly and long term data available via an interactive map. The program tests water quality at 19 swimming sites around the Derwent estuary. Based on five years of data, most Derwent swimming sites are classified as having good or fair water quality, though remember that swimming in the Derwent is not recommended for several days after heavy rain, and never in the vicinity of stormwater pipes or urban rivulets. Beach Watch ratings can be found at www.derwentestuary.org.au/beach-watch.

SCRAMBLE CROSSINGS TO STAY

Four pedestrian crossings in the CBD will continue to be ‘scramble’ style, where walkers can cross in any direction whilst a timer counts down until the lights change. Councillors voted in favour of keeping the scramble crossings at the most recent Hobart City Council meeting following a 12-month trial that saw mixed reactions from motorists and city business owners. Councillor Ryan Posselt said “the number of car movements at Liverpool and Elizabeth Street has reduced by 20%, and that’s a good thing because there’s 12,000 pedestrians that are moving through that junction every day.”. The crossings are at the intersections of Elizabeth and Collins, Elizabeth and Liverpool, Murray and Collins and Murray and Liverpool streets.

APPLY NOW FOR FREE AEDs

Community groups, businesses and individuals can apply for a free Automatic External Defibrillators (AED) through the latest round of the Tasmanian Government’s Community Defibrillator Fund. AEDs are important tools that can help save a life before paramedics arrive. The fund boosts the availability of publicly accessible AEDs across the state. This round of the fund includes 180 AEDS, adding to the 360 already delivered since this was introduced in 2014. “When someone has a cardiac arrest, their chance of survival declines by almost 10 per cent with each passing minute, and having access to an AED can mean the difference between life and death,” Minister for Health, Jacquie Petrusma said. “Defibrillators are easy to use without any training and are audio-equipped to guide the user through the procedure, and by hosting one of these devices, you can help our dedicated first responders to save lives.” After a device is placed in the community, it will be findable through the GoodSAM Responder phone app, which supports cardiac arrest responses by alerting nearby registered responders and providing the location of patients and the closest AED. There are more than 1,000 publicly accessible AEDs registered throughout Tasmania. Applications for the fund are open until 31 January 2025. For more information, visit www.health.tas.gov.au.

BIOPLASTICS BOOM FACES DISPOSAL DILEMMA 

Bioplastics are plastics made from natural or renewable sources. Common types of products made from bioplastics include packaging, bags, bottles, cutlery, and tableware. Environmental concerns have driven a surge in bioplastics, but unclear labelling for disposal is leading many bioplastic items in landfill or contaminating recycling and compositing. This was revealed in a new report, the State of Bioplastics in Australia, from the CSIRO. For context, bioplastics are rising because plastics derived from fossil fuels are bad for the environment. Bioplastics is a term that refers to plastics made from petro-chemical-based or renewable natural materials. Not all bioplastics are environmentally degradable, however, many are. They offer a promising solution to reduce fossil fuel dependency and reduce plastic pollution. Dr Albert Ardevol, CSIRO’s Plastic Packaging Research Lead, said there is confusion around terminology when it comes to bioplastic disposal. “Australia doesn’t have standardised labelling so it’s hard for consumers to understand the different types of materials and how they integrate into existing waste management systems,” he said. “Bioplastics are often a more sustainable alternative. However, if disposed of incorrectly, bioplastics can contaminate recycling and waste streams.” He goes on to say that a large portion of bioplastics end up in landfill, where they can decompose and release methane emissions, highlighting the need for improved labelling and waste management. Close to half of the 2.18 million tonnes of bioplastics manufactured in 2023 was for packaging, the most prevalent type of plastic pollution. Dr Deborah Lau, CSIRO’s Ending Plastic Waste Lead, said establishing design standards will help further the bioplastics industry in Australia. “Bioplastics need to be designed and considered within the broader plastic waste system,” Dr Lau said. “As they are not accepted in most existing waste collection streams, capacity and infrastructure for processing bioplastics needs to be developed.” The CSIRO has established the Bioplastics Innovation Hub with Murdoch University to develop 100 per cent compostable plastics which could break down in both industrial and home composting facilities.

HOT SUMMER AHEAD FOR TASSIE

The long-range weather forecast is showing that Tasmania is very likely to have warmer than usual summer temperatures, for both days and nights. “The signal is particularly strong for overnight temperatures to be well above normal this summer, which may also overlap with the expectation of higher-than-normal humidity conditions,” Bureau of Meteorology Senior Meteorologist Luke Johnston said. “This will have an impact on the potential number of heatwave events this season.” A heatwave is when temperatures stay unusually hot for at least three days in a row. The Bureau of Meteorology issues warnings for severe or extreme heatwaves, which can be tough on vulnerable people. Extreme heatwaves are rare in Tasmania, but anyone who doesn’t take steps to stay cool could be at risk. Make sure to stay updated with weather forecasts and heat alerts this summer.

FRESH LOOK FOR GRANTON PARK

The Derwent Valley Council have completed upgrades on the existing playground at Granton Park, which is on the Granton side of the Bridgewater Bridge. The previous equipment was removed, and will be restored and relocated for another site. Now, all brand-new equipment has been installed, giving the park a fresh new look, and a fun spot to take the kids for the holidays.

MEET TASMANIA’S 2025 AUSTRALIAN OF THE YEAR AWARD WINNERS

Sam Elsom, the founder of Sea Forest, has been named the 2025 Tasmanian Australian of the Year. He’s created a breakthrough way to cut down methane emissions, which are worse for the planet than carbon dioxide according to the CSIRO. His company, Sea Forest, found a way to turn asparagopsis, a type of Australian seaweed, into a feed supplement for livestock. This helps reduce the methane they produce, making farming more sustainable and slowing down global warming. Other award winers include Associate Professor Penelope Blomfield, who was named Tasmanian Senior Australian of the Year for her work with patients battling gynaecological cancers, and Ariarne Titmus, the 24-yearold Olympic swimmer, who’s been named Tasmanian Young Australian of the Year for her incredible sporting achievements. Keren Franks, the founder of Young Leaders of Tasmania, is this year’s Local Hero. These four individuals will represent Tasmania at the Australian of the Year Awards in Canberra on 25 January.

NO MORE MONKEYING AROUND

In 20-25 years, Launceston’s famous macaque monkeys will be no more. This comes after the City of Launceston decided to restrict future breeding of City Park’s Japanese macaque troop. The decision was made because Japanese macaques are no longer deemed suitable for live importation under the Federal Environmental Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999, making it impossible to introduce new macaques to City Park. Continued breeding amongst the macaques that are there would cause the enclosure to become overcrowded, negatively affect the health and wellbeing of the monkeys, and lead to inbreeding. So over the next two years, veterinarians will oversee the desexing of the male members of the troop. “There’s no doubt this decision was a difficult one, but it prioritises the welfare of the monkey troop so we can keep them as healthy and happy as possible, for as long as possible,” Mayor Matthew Garwood said. “It’s important to remember the City Park monkeys will still be with us for decades to come and we’ll continue to care for them to the highest possible standards.” Japanese macaques have been exhibited in Launceston’s City Park since 1981. They were originally received as a gift from Launceston’s Sister City, Ikeda in Japan.

STAY SAFE FOR ROCK LOBSTER SEASON

Rock lobsters are one of Tasmania’s most prized delicacies, and with the opening of the Rock Lobster East Coast Stock Rebuilding Zone season, many are eager to start fishing for them. Marine and Safety Tasmania (MAST) is reminding anglers to prioritise safety this season. Preparation, clear communication, and respect for safety rules are key to a successful fishing trip. For the latest rules and safety tips visit www.fishing.tas.gov.au.

HOME GROWN TALENT

Chelsea Dean, a 2022 graduate from the Launceston College, has landed her first professional musical theatre role. She debuted in Perth as Nessarose in the Australian production of Wicked, one of the most popular stage musicals of all time. The College remembers Chelsea for her exceptional performances in their productions.

CORNELIAN BAY WORKS IN 2025

Parts of the Cornelian Bay sports grounds will be temporarily leased to TasWater for essential infrastructure works. Their lease will run for a year with the option for monthly extensions, so watch this space. As part of the agreement there will be strict operating hours, community consultation requirements and TasWater are required to rehabilitate the site following the works.

NEW EAST COAST PUMPTRACK OPENS FOR SUMMER

St Helens has a fun new outdoor biking space with the opening of the Flagstaff Pumptrack. A perfect spot for new and experienced riders and rollers, the pumptrack adds to the East Coast’s infrastructure for outdoor and mountain biking. A pumptrack is for wheeled sports, and does not require pushing or pedalling, but rather a pumping action designed to maintain momentum. It was built by World Trail, who are a global leader in bike track design.