New Openings On The Island

Local beauty and cosmetic business Millie Organics (46 Hampden Road, Battery Point) have opened their very own store after being a stallholder at Salamanca Market since 2015. Beautiful soaps, skin care, bathroom products, baby products, essential oils and candles, all made with Tasmanian native ingredients. O’Skin (7 Castray Esplanade, Battery Point) will open mid-November. Dr Amy O’Brien leads an expert team of nurses and dermal therapists, with treatments for various medical and cosmetic skin issues. She is joined by Dr Sam Gibson-Smith, who offers skin checks and both sur­gical and nonsurgical management of skin cancers and precancerous change, and Dr Emily Ware, who specialises in women’s health, focusing on peri­menopause and vulvovaginal health. Australia’s largest bicycle retailer 99 Bikes (125 Murray Street, Hobart) are opening their first store in Tasmania soon. Expect a huge range of bikes, scooters, and parts as well as servicing and repairs. Global brand Hilton have opened their first ever hotel in Tas­mania, the 206-room DoubleTree by Hilton Hobart (179 Macquarie Street, Hobart) and onsite Leatherwood Restaurant for all-day dining. Good things come to those who Op Shop. City Mission Op Shop Moonah Mega-Store (15 Main Road, Moonah) has reopened after exciting renova­tions, packed to the brim with op shop goodies. Richmond has been without a bookshop for a while now, but that’s all changed with the exciting open­ing of not one, but two book-related businesses. The first is Richmond Book Nook (Shop 6-7, 35 Bridge Street, Richmond), a new independent bookstore covering a range of fiction, non-fiction, and kids books. And down the road is Richmond Reading Room (28A Bridge Street, Richmond), a cute little spot with specialty coffee and eclectic books. Great additions to the historic town.Jordan River Health will house the new Bridgewater Medicare Urgent Care Clinic (9-11 Hurst Street, Bridgewater), providing seven days a week, free walk-in urgent care. Harmony on High Street (116 High Street, Campbell Town) is a new gallery and art hub for the Midlands opening on 23 November. They’ll open with artwork from over 20 Tas­manian artists, plus jewellery, textiles, candles and more.

STRONG TAS POLLEN SEASON AHEAD

Experts are advising Tasmanians to be pre­pared for a potentially strong summer pol­len season. AirHealth and the University of Tasmania’s Menzies Institute for Medical Research are predicting grass pollen levels will be higher than in recent years this spring and summer. This is due to the high amount of rainfall Tasmania saw over winter, and the higher-than-median rainfall predictions for eastern Tasmania. This may lead to a surge in grass growth, resulting in more grass pollen in the air. Grass pollen is the most common trigger for hay fever and asthma, so it’s important for Tasmanians with these conditions to stay alert through­out the season. Dr Edwin Lampugnani, Chief Operating and Scientific Officer at AirHealth, said, “Our advice to Tasma­nians is to be ready and use available tools like the AirRater app to stay informed about current environmental conditions, including pollen levels.” National Asthma Council Australia Director and respiratory physician Professor Peter Wark said, “Now is the time to check in with your GP and make sure you are on the best treatment to control your asthma and know what to do during a spring thunderstorm or asthma emergency.” The grass pollen season is expected to vary across regions.

SHOREBIRD NESTING SEASON IN FULL WING

It’s that time of year when shorebirds flock to Tasmanian beaches to nest and raise their young. Parks and Environment Minister Nick Duigan has reminded beach­goers to be mindful of these birds and their habitats. “Tasmania’s coastlines aren’t only places for recreation, they are vital habitats in which many species of shorebirds nest, breed, and raise their young,” Minister Duigan said. The nesting season runs from October to March, and these birds and their eggs can be hard to spot, making them vulnerable. To help protect them, beachgoers should stick to wet sand, keep their distance from nests, and walk dogs only in approved areas on a leash. Avoid driving on beaches and collecting beach materials too.

FIRST LOOK AT PROPOSED GLE­NORCHY POOL

A first look at the possible future Gle­norchy War Memorial Pool has been unveiled by the Glenorchy City Council. Estimated to cost $84 million, the plan includes an outdoor 50m pool, water slide, indoor 25m lap pool, indoor 20m warm water learn-to-swim or program pool, spa, sauna and steam room, toddler pool, gymnasium and health club, and a café. Renders by Hobart studio Liminal Architecture were released recently. “Council will be briefing both State and Federal Governments on the preferred option to secure funding for the project,” Glenorchy Mayor Sue Hickey said. “In the meantime, Council will be getting on with the job of repairing and re-opening the existing pool which we are aiming to have ready for summer next year.” So don’t get your bathers out just yet. The water slides look pretty fun, though.

PFAS TESTS ON TASMANIAN DRINK­ING WATER NOW COMPLETE

TasWater has finally completed almost 2000 tests for the presence of PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substanc­es) in all 70 raw water catchments used by TasWater and have had no detec­tions. TasWater also recently announced their support of new draft guidelines on drinking water concerning PFAS. These guidelines were released by the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC), and are aimed at ensuring safe drinking water. The draft guidelines propose lower acceptable levels for three types of PFAS. “The lowest proposed level is equivalent to one drop diluted in five Olympic sized swimming pools,” said TasWater Chief Scientist Graham Hawke. TasWater notes that PFAS are commonly found in everyday items, such as water-resistant clothing, personal care products, and non-stick cookware, and are found widespread in the environment. TasWater’s latest Annual Drinking Water Quality Report and PFAS testing detail can be found at www.taswater.com.au/news/waterquality/waterquality.

LOW-INCOME TASMANIANS ARE SKIPPING MEALS

Low-income households are going through the highest rates of food insecuri­ty since the onset of the current cost-of-living crisis, according to the Foodbank Hunger Report 2024. In Tasmania, over a third (36%) of households are facing food insecurity and of these, more than half (53%) are regularly skipping meals or going entire days without food. The disparity in food access based on region is evident, with 40% of households in regional Tasmania experiencing food inse­curity compared to 30% in metro areas. Across Australia, single parent households are the hardest hit with over two-thirds (69%) facing food insecurity. “Unsurpris­ingly, people are being forced to cut back on the most basic of essentials, nutritious food, because of the combination of high­er costs of housing and essential goods, particularly food and utilities, while wages fail to keep pace – all of which are entirely outside of the control of most Australian households,” said Foodbank Australia CEO, Brianna Casey.

TASSIE VAPING LAWS STAND FIRM

New vaping laws in Australia don’t apply in Tasmania. In some places on the main­land, adults can now buy certain e-ciga­rettes from pharmacies without needing a prescription. However, in Tasmania, the old rules still apply, so adults still need a doctor’s prescription to buy e-cigarettes, e-liquids, and vaping devices from phar­macies. It’s illegal to sell these products to anyone under 18.

MORE GLENORCHY ART WRAPS POPPING UP

More anti-graffiti art wraps are continuing to roll out across the Glenorchy region. Glenorchy City Council announced this initiative a couple months ago in an effort to tackle graffiti and support local artists. The wrap outside Cosgrove High was designed by the Piecing It Together intergenerational street art project, and the wrap outside the Glenorchy Bus Mall was designed by Billie Kinder, adding a touch of eye-catching colour to the streetscape.

LAUNCESTON PARK SURVEY

The City of Launceston is developing a master plan for Carr Villa Memorial Park, and is looking for the commu­nity’s feedback to guide the future of the site for the next 100 years. And if you do, you’re in for a chance to win a $50 grocery voucher. The master plan focuses on site utilisation, crematorium operations, services and maintenance, while preserving the picturesque, peaceful, and historical importance of the site. Carr Villa has offered cemetery services for over a century. Provide your feedback, and go into the draw to win a voucher, at www.tomorrowtogetherlaun­ceston.com.au/carr-villamemorial-park. The survey closes on 13 November.

COLLINS STREET BIKE LANE GRANT SCRAPPED, BUT TRIAL MOVES FORWARD

The Tasmanian Government has an­nounced the withdrawal of a $170,000 grant for the bike lanes on Collins Street in Hobart. Transport Minister Eric Abetz cited feedback from local businesses and community members as the reason for this decision. Earlier this year, the City of Hobart had approved a trial for new cycle lanes on both sides of Collins Street. In response to the withdrawal of the grant, the Hobart City Council has approved the reallocation of $170,000 from the 2024-25 Capital Works Con­tingency Fund to fully fund the Collins Street Tactical Bicycle Infrastructure two-year trial. Local business owners had previously raised concerns about potential loss of car parks due to the proposed bike lanes. Although the bike lane funding from the State Govern­ment is no longer available, $120,000 earmarked for upgrades to Castray Esplanade and planning for bike lanes on Augusta Road remains on track.

WINTER ILLNESS IMPACTS IN 2024

A new study by Moderna Australia has shed light on the impact of respiratory illnesses this winter, particularly among older Australians. This year about 744,000 lab-confirmed cases of ‘vac­cine-preventable’ illnesses like RSV, influenza, and COVID-19 were report­ed. Of these, around 160,490 cases were in adults aged 65 and older. COVID-19 continues to pose the biggest risk for se­niors, with about 40% of cases affecting those in this age group. Unfortunately, 1,854 people have died from COVID-19 this year, with older adults facing a death rate around four times higher than those who succumbed to influenza. In­fluenza was also a significant challenge this season, peaking in early July, and overall cases have surpassed last year’s numbers and the five-year average. Vaccine uptake for those 65 and older has dropped to 60.5%, the lowest in four years.

BELLERIVE FERRY TERMINAL PLANS LAND ASHORE

A first look at the proposed upgrades to the Bellerive ferry terminal has been re­leased. The new $5 million Bellerive ferry terminal aims to provide easy access and greater comfort for the 500+ commuters who use the Bellerive to Hobart ferry daily. This includes indoor waiting areas, improved seating for a larger number of passengers and bicycle storage options. Construction is expected to begin once planning approvals are completed, which will take 6-12 months. The Tasmanian Government has committed $20 mil­lion to deliver new terminals and ferry services at Lindisfarne Bay, followed by Sandy Bay and Wilkinson’s Point. Con­sultation and engagement on these three ferry terminals will begin soon.

BIRD FLU ALERT: WHAT TASMANIANS NEED TO KNOW

The Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service (PWS) is urging everyone to stay alert about bird flu, especially with migratory birds returning during spring and summer. A strain called H5N1 clade 2.3.4.4b has been spreading globally, causing illness and death in birds and other animals. While this particular strain hasn’t been found in Tasmania or Australia yet, PWS says it’s likely to arrive, carried by wild birds migrating from affected areas. Bird flu spreads easily through contact between birds, as well as through contaminat­ed water, food, manure, and farming equipment. If this strain does make it to Tasmania, it could lead to significant bird and wildlife deaths, impact poultry farms, and pause activities like wildlife rescue and muttonbird harvesting. Some areas could be temporarily closed to limit the spread of the disease. Scavengers, such as Tasmanian devils and wedge-tailed eagles, could also fall ill from eating infected birds.

PWS is asking Tasmanians to keep an eye out for symptoms in live birds, which can include coughing, sneezing, circling, and swelling in the head and neck. In mammals, signs might include tremors, incoordination, seizures, and respiratory issues. These symptoms can mimic other diseases, but it’s better safe than sorry. If you see sick or dead wildlife, especially in large numbers, PWS says to contact the Emergency Animal Disease hotline at 1800 675 888. Human cases of bird flu are rare and typically require close contact with infected animals. Most cases in humans are mild or have no symptoms. Common symptoms are similar to season­al flu. PWS advises against touching sick or dead birds. If you have to handle them, wear a mask, goggles, and gloves, and wash your hands thoroughly afterward.

BIGGER, BETTER NUT FOR STANLEY

The Tasmanian Government will be spending some cash-ew to improve the visitor experience at The Nut Reserve in Stanley. The reserve attracts about 50,000 visitors each year. There are planned improvements for signage, vehicle and pedestrian access, accessibility for walk­ing tracks, and a new lookout platform.

LIBRARY ENTRANCE REOPENED

The State Library and Tasmanian Archives ground floor has officially reopened after some works. At a cost of $1.7 million, the space is designed to be a hub for visitors to relax, read and study. One of the changes was the reversal of the staircase, enhancing flow and accessibili­ty, and welcoming floor artwork designed by Tasmanian Aboriginal artist Caleb Nichols-Mansell.

GIMME MOORING

As the weather warms up, Marine and Safety Tasmania (MAST) wants recre­ational boaters to use the public cruising moorings available around the state. These moorings are safe spots to tie up your boat. MAST has 28 of them, from King and Flinders Islands to the East Coast and as far south as Recherche Bay. “They are designed by a naval architect and engineered to ensure safe use even in challenging conditions. All the moorings have recently been serviced and are ready for the upcoming summer boating sea­son,” said Storm Eastley, MAST’s Senior Recreational Boating Safety Officer. You can spot MAST moorings by their yellow floats and stickers. There are rules for using MAST public moorings: boats can be a maximum of 15 metres long, you can stay for up to four hours during the day or one night, and no rafting up is allowed. Check the MAST website for the full list of mooring locations.

NEW MAJOR SHOPPING CENTRE FOR KINGSTON APPROVED

Kingborough Council has given the green light for developer Tipalea Partners’ new Spring Farm Village project in Kingston, a new major shopping centre for the area. This $45 million retail hub is expected to create around 1,100 jobs. The centre is already 70% leased and will feature the biggest Coles Supermarket in Kingbor­ough, along with Chemist Warehouse’s first superstore in the region. Other shops will include food, beverage, and beauty outlets. Tipalea hopes the community will start shopping there by early 2026. Locat­ed across from Bunnings on the Channel Highway, Spring Farm Village will offer over 7,500 square metres of retail space in a rapidly growing residential area, where Kingston’s population is set to rise by 7,000 in the next decade. The design includes modern sustainability features like solar panels, EV charging stations, and free Wi-Fi, and it will have more than 350 parking spots, plus spaces for taxis and food delivery services.

SEISMIC BLASTING IN TASSIE WATERS CANCELLED

Norwegian company TGS recently scrapped their proposal for seismic blasting in waters between Victoria and Tasmania for oil and gas expansion. It would have covered an area half the size of Tasmania, and been 38 kilometres out to sea. This decision follows vocal oppo­sition to the proposal from First Nations people, local communities, scientists and environment organisations. Seismic blasting can interfere with feeding and breeding for whales and is known to hurt and kill marine life including zooplankton and shellfish. It’s used to locate fossil fuels under the seabed for offshore oil and gas expansion and involves multiple air guns firing every 10 to 15 seconds, all day for weeks to months.

SEAWEED COMPANY TOPS TASMA­NIAN EXPORT AWARDS

Local biotechnology company Marinova has been crowned the 2024 Tasmanian Exporter of the Year at the 30th Tasma­nian Export Awards. Marinova harnesses the benefits of specific brown seaweed species and their products are shipped to countries like the US, Taiwan, Germany, Malaysia, and New Zealand, aiming to improve human health with their seaweed extracts. As part of their award, Mari­nova will receive up to $10,000 to help them attend international trade shows or government trade missions. Geoneon was another winner, taking the Emerg­ing Explorer award, while Tasman Sea Salt won the Small Business award. All winners will represent Tasmania at the National Export Awards on 20 November in Canberra.

SHARE YOUR THOUGHTS ON THE WEST COAST LYELL HIGHWAY

The Tasmanian Government wants to hear from you about plans to upgrade the Lyell Highway, which is a key road for towns in the Derwent Valley, Central Highlands, and West Coast, including New Norfolk, Ouse, Derwent Bridge, Queenstown, and Strahan. The Federal Government has committed $80 million towards upgrading the Lyell Highway, with the Tasmanian Government committing $20 million. Premier Jeremy Rockliff said, “We want to better understand how the local community, businesses, tourists and commuters use the road to investigate po­tential improvements and upgrades. These improvements could include shoulder and road widening, new overtaking lanes, new and improved active and public trans­port facilities, intersection upgrades and more.” You can share your thoughts until 18 November 2024. For more details, visit www.transport.tas.gov.au.

LITTLE READER OF THE HO­BART MAGAZINE

“I rushed to grab my phone when I spotted what my two-and-a-half year-old daughter Lucy had picked up to read pre-bedtime by the fire! She promptly suggested we ‘read this book together’. Looks like we have a THM fan in the making. Love the mag, keep up the great work!” – Carolyn.

FISH WITH DEEP POCKETS

Who needs the lotto when you’ve got… fishing? That’s right, catch yourself a brown trout and possibly win a cash prize. Organised by the Inland Fisheries Service (IFS), they’ve tagged and released 16 brown trout, each valued at $5,000, into nine lakes across the state. The lucky trouts have been stocked in Lake Mack­intosh, Lake Rowallan, Hunstman Lake, Lake Leake, Great Lake, Bradys Lake, Arthurs Lake, Lake Sorell, and Craig­bourne Lake. To claim a prize, anglers will need to catch a brown trout with the correct tag and report the details of the catch, with photo evidence, to the IFS. Remember that you need to hold a current freshwater angling licence to fish inland. This season, angling licences for junior anglers aged between 14 and 17 years of age are free, and there are discounted licences for 18 to 21-year-olds. So next weekend why not get your family or mates together for a little fish, and poten­tially nab a prize in the process? Best of luck, anglers. For more information visit www.ifs.tas.gov.au.

FERN TREE LOSES BEST WATER TITLE. JUST KIDDING.

In a shocking twist that has sent ripples through the tap water world (not really), the Fern Tree water treatment plant has once again won the IXOM Best Tasting Tap Water in Tasmania for 2024. This is the third time in a row it has taken the title, beating out samples from Rocky Creek and Scamander in the grand finale. Better luck next time Rocky Creek and Scamander, though it’s your own fault for going against the king. Fern Tree will now go on to battle it out against the best from other states for the Australian title in No­vember, which Tasmania is hosting. So, how does one judge water? Well, samples are subjected to a blind taste test and rated according to the Water Tasting Wheel, which outlines some of the attributes that water professionals use when judging wa­ter such as colour, clarity, odour and taste. Like wine tasting but with less spitting. Ground coffee is sniffed between tastings to cleanse the palate.

IMPACT OF LOGGING ON NATIVE WILDLIFE REVEALED

A new report has highlighted the severe impact of native forest logging on Tasma­nia’s wildlife, revealing that over 300,000 native animals are killed or displaced each year. Launched by The Tree Projects and the Wilderness Society, this study is the first in Australia to quantify the effects of native forest logging on wildlife in Tasmania. The report identifies habitat loss as the primary cause of this impact, though animals also face threats from logging machinery, the burning of logged areas, and culling. While some native animals manage to flee to nearby forests, many struggle to survive due to intense competition for food and shelter with established wildlife. To support native species, healthy and intact forests are essential.

FROM BLUNDSTONES TO NINJAS

Bellerive Oval is to be renamed NINJA Stadium. Cricket Tasmania announced the name change following the end of a years-long partnership with Blundstone. SharkNinja, an international kitchen appliance company, has signed a four-year deal that includes the naming rights. Cricket Tasmania CEO Dominic Baker said NINJA Stadium will be ‘the Home of Female Sports’ in Tasmania.

MAC WHARF 6 FUNDED

The Tasmanian Government has made a funding agreement with the Australian Government to fund urgent upgrades to Macquarie Wharf 6 after years of delays that led to uncertainty around Hobart’s ability to hold Antarctic ships and there­fore our place as the gateway to Antarc­tica. The federal government has assured funding of $188 million to upgrade the wharf and the Tasmanian government has in turn assured access for the next 30 years and a refuelling station for the Nuyina and other ships. Maybe this is where they will pak the Spirits until the Devonport Wharf is ready in 2027?

SWEET TIME FOR SWEET WINE

Frogmore Creek has won a couple of major awards recently. Firstly, their 2023 Iced Riesling has won Best Sweet Ries­ling, Best Australian Riesling, and overall best wine of the 2024 Canberra Interna­tional Riesling challenge. They competed against nearly 330 Rieslings from 140 wineries across five countries – Australia, New Zealand, USA, Germany and France. In addition, Frogmore Creek’s 2023 Pinot Noir won a Gold medal at the Australian Pinot Noir Challenge. Impressive!

ENDANGERED PARROTS RETURN TO TASMANIA

The first four Orange-bellied Parrots of the season have returned to their Tasmanian breeding grounds at Melaleuca. The critically endangered birds breed in Tasmania and winter on the coast of southern mainland Australia. “Of the four returns, the first two were wild-born parrots from 2019, one was a captive-bred juvenile from Moonlit Sanctuary released in 2022, and the fourth was a Tasma­nian captive-bred adult released in Spring 2023,” Minister for Parks and Environment, Nick Duigan said. “In the coming weeks, captive-bred adult Orange-bellied Parrots will be released at Melaleuca, to supplement the number of breeding pairs in the wild population.” Nest boxes have been installed at Melaleuca and the surrounding areas to prepare for the upcoming breeding season, so here’s hoping we’ll be seeing baby parrots not too soon.

LAUNCESTON & THE TAMAR VALLEY NAMED #4 REGION IN THE WORLD

Lonely Planet just dropped its list of the best places to visit in 2025, with the release of Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2025. The guide includes the Top 10 Countries, Top 10 Cities, Top 10 Regions and Top 10 Emerging Travel Trends. Launceston and the Tamar Valley was ranked as #4 in the Top 10 Regions in the world. This area is celebrated for its stunning na­ture, like the rugged Cataract Gorge, plus amazing wineries and local food. A good reminder that in Tasmania, you don’t have to go far to find some of the best spots on the planet.

SAY CHEESE: PYENGANA DAIRY TAKES CHEDDAR NATIONWIDE

Tasmanian cheese producer Pyengana Dairy is spreading the love with its award-winning traditional cheddar now available in 182 Coles supermar­kets across Tasmania, Victoria, New South Wales, and Queensland.

DON’T RUN THE RED

Hobart City councillors recently discussed the need for red light enforcement in the CBD. At the most recent council meeting, it was decid­ed that the City of hobart will write to the transport minister, the department of state growth and Tasmania Police to request regular enforcement of red-light compliance at key intersections such as Macquarie and Elizabeth, Macquarie and Murray, Davey and Campbell, Davey and Elizabeth, Davey and Murray, and Risdon and New Town.

OH MY COD! TASMANIAN FISHING HABITS REVEALED

Back in 2022 scientists at the Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies (IMAS) con­ducted a survey about recreational fishing in Tasmania. In the true spirit of catch-and-re­lease, they’ve now let the results swim free. The 2022-23 Survey of Recreational Fishing in Tasmania provides insight into how many Tasmanians recreationally fish and their habits. Here are some of the highlights: Over the 12 months leading up to October 2022, approximately 27% of the Tasmanian pop­ulation participated in recreational fishing. While the largest group of recreational fishers is aged 45 to 59, the highest participation rate comes from younger anglers aged five to 14. Despite the rise in participation, the survey revealed that many fishers don’t fish frequently; about two-thirds go out fewer than five days a year. The total harvest has decreased notably, mainly due to a decline in sand flathead catches. Though sand flathead remains the most commonly caught species, accounting for 50% of the total finfish catch, with an estimated 126 tonnes harvested.

NEW FISHING RULES FOR TASMANIA

Fishing Tasmania has released the Recre­ational Sea Fishing Guide for 2024-2025, which introduces a few rule changes that apply from 1 November. The first change affects sand flathead possession limits for on-water fishers moving between zones or fishing overnight. Anglers are now limited to possessing an on-water amount equal to their daily bag limit for the specific zone they are in. For instance, if you’re fishing in the East­ern Zone but returning to the D’Entrecasteaux Channel, you can keep two sand flatheads per person. This rule aims to aid the recovery of the sand flathead population. The on-land possession limit remains at 10 fish, and daily bag limits stay unchanged. Secondly, rock lobster catch reporting is now mandatory. Fishers must report their catch immediately after tail-marking their lobsters or checking their gear, even if they caught nothing. This report can be submitted via the Fishing Tas app or by calling 1300 720 647, and must be done within 250 metres of the fishing location. Lastly, gillnetting is now prohibited in Macquarie Harbour. The updated fishing guide is available at Service Tasmania stores, online, and through the Fishing Tas app.

NEW NORTH WEST FIRE STATION

Fire and emergency response in the far north-west has been boosted with the opening of the new Marrawah Fire Sta­tion. The $1.4 million project includes the Marrawah Community Hall for brigade training activities, a brigade office area, and a Forward Operations Centre during large-scale emergencies in the area.

A MUSICAL UPHILL BATTLE FOR CHARITY

Kelvin Smith from A Piano of Tasmania is gearing up for a fundraising event called Piano to Pinnacle. He partnered with the charity SPEAK UP Stay ChatTY for this initiative, which is happening on 16-17 November, coinciding with the world’s toughest half road half marathon, Point to Pinnacle. Kelvin’s goal is to raise $40,000 for mental health awareness by pushing his 240 kg piano all the way from Mures to the top of kunanyi in just 24 hours, as a living metaphor of 24 hours in the life of someone living with mental illness. Kelvin’s training is being guided by Matt Lancaster, who has been to the Olympics three times with the Australian athletics team. You can donate at www.fundraise.staychatty.com.au/p/350720/piano-to-pinnacle.

WHERE TO GET YOUR PERFECT ‘REAL’ CHRISTMAS TREE

It’s hard to believe, but Christmas is just around the corner. No holiday sneaks up on you faster. From picking, buying, and wrapping presents to working out the logistics of whose house to celebrate at, it’s a busy time. At the centre of all the carnage is the Christmas tree. While fake trees have their charm, nothing beats the magic and scent of a real tree. Luckily, Tasmania has some family-run Christ­mas tree farms where you can hand­pick your very own festive beauty. Get in quick, they sell out faster than Santa’s sleigh can traverse the globe. Note that The Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service (PWS) do not allow members of the public to cut down their own tree.

Richmond Christmas Tree Farm (364 Fingerpost Road, Richmond) – After a decade of spreading Christmas cheer, the former owners have passed custodianship of the farm to the Polanowski family. Every December, the farm opens its gates for families to pick their perfect tree. Tickets open on 15 November at 7pm and sell out fast. With good care, their trees can last up to six weeks. And on the second weekend in January, you can return your tree to be mulched.

Coal Valley Christmas Trees (1 Walworth Road, Richmond) – There’s over 1000 trees to choose from at this farm outside Richmond. The farm opens for just four weekends starting on 30 November, with tickets available from 3 November. From small to towering trees, each one is hand-pruned and unique. While you’re there you can visit Santa’s Workshop for some fun holiday shopping.

Killiecrankie Farm Christmas Trees (228 Glengarry Road, Glengarry) – Established in 2007 amidst the rural countryside of Northern Tasmania, Killiecrankie Farm is Tasmania’s first pick-your-own Christmas tree farm. The farm opens for the 2024 Season on 30 November, and passes are available from 1 November. Like Richmond Christmas Tree Farm, you can bring back the trees when you’re done to give them a full circle.

MUSICAL CHAIRS IN GOVERNMENT

It’s been a bit of musical chairs within the Tasmanian gov­ernment, with a new cabinet officially sworn in by Governor Barbara Baker at Government House after a delay due to the Governor’s commitments during the King’s visit to the main­land. In October Michael Ferguson and Nic Street resigned their ministries, leaving some significant gaps to fill. Guy Barnett is now Deputy Premier and Treasurer, as well as Attorney-General and Minister for Justice. Jacquie Pestrusma, who has a nursing background, is now Minister for Health, Aboriginal Affairs and Veteran Affairs. Kerry Vincent, a former Mayor of Sorell, is now Minister for Infrastructure and Local government. Nick Duigan has picked up the Sports and Events portfolio, Felix Ellis has Consumer Affairs, Jane Howlett has Hospitality and Small Business, Roger Jaensch has Finance and Mental Health and Wellbeing and Madeleine Ogilvie adds Science and Technology into a new portfolio of Innovation, Science and the Digital Econ­omy. Simon Wood is the Parliamentary Secretary for Health, Mental Health and Wellbeing and Government Whip. Jo Palmer is Minister for Women and the Prevention of Family Violence. Simon Behrakis is now a Parliamentary Secretary for Housing and Planning and Rob Fairs is Parliamentary Secretary for Youth Engagement, a new role.

UNMASK YOURSELF

We recently received a letter (an actual letter!) from a reader who took the time to make some markups to our cover, citing what we could do better and some good suggestions for future editions. But failed to share who they were. Please get in touch… we might have a job for you.

LAUNNIE’S THE LOUNGE RECOGNISED ON GLOBAL STAGE

Earlier this year, the not-for-profit Launceston Central launched an initiative called The Lounge, transforming an empty store­front in Launceston’s CBD into a community hub. Over the winter, more than 8,000 visitors enjoyed music, art, and connec­tions with one another at The Lounge. Now, it has been named a finalist in the City Nation Place Awards, the only global awards dedicated to showcasing the efforts of teams promoting cities, regions, and countries. It stands out as one of just six finalists in the Best Placemaking Initiative category, competing alongside entries from Budapest, Copenhagen, and the USA. This award honours projects that enhance public spaces, encourage commu­nity interaction, and improve the appeal of towns and cities. “We hope this project will continue to serve as inspiration and we hope to be able to bring The Lounge back next winter, thanks to the support of City of Launceston we have already started plan­ning 2025 and are looking at attracting other grants and support from the community to build on the magic of this special place,” said Amanda McEvoy, Executive Officer of Launceston Central. Winners will be announced in London on 7 November.