NEWS: Tasmanian Neurologist Professor Bruce Taylor Honoured

by Stephanie Williams

Tasmanian neurologist and MS researcher Professor Bruce Taylor has been named co-recipient of MS Australia’s 2025 MS Research Award, recognising more than 25 years of leadership in advancing multiple sclerosis (MS) research and improving outcomes for people living with the condition. Based at the Menzies Institute for Medical Research in Hobart, Professor Taylor has led national and international studies that have shaped current knowledge of MS prevalence, epidemiology, genetics, biomarkers and disease progression.

His research has helped inform earlier diagnosis and improve everyday clinical care for people living with MS. He is also a key contributor to the Understanding MS course, an internationally recognised online education program that has helped tens of thousands of people deepen their understanding of MS and its impacts.

Professor Taylor was humbled to be recognised but stressed that collaboration and community have been at the heart of his career. “What we do in MS research is only possible because we work together, and none of our work happens in a silo,” Professor Taylor said. “Collaboration has driven every step forward, and that makes the work incredibly rewarding.”

MS Australia CEO Rohan Greenland said Professor Taylor’s contribution to MS research has had a lasting impact. “Bruce’s research has deepened global understanding of MS and continues to influence clinical practice and future research directions. His dedication, curiosity and generous collaboration have shaped MS science in Australia for more than 25 years,” Mr Greenland said.

Professor Taylor shares the 2025 MS Research Award with Professor Helmut Butzkueven from Monash University and Alfred Health.

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Hobart Happenings

by Steph Williams

Bits and Pieces- June 2026

Hobart Happenings

by Steph Williams

Bits and Pieces – May 2026

Bits and Pieces- May 2026

Stay up to date with everything happening at the Hobart Magazine.

Worker shortage is currently universal, there isn’t an industry that’s exempt. For Kelvin Smith, four years ago he decided there was a very obvious solution to the shortage facing the construction industry, and all that was needed was a little time, empathy and a helping hand. Integrate Workforce is a Hobart-based labour company with one requirement: a refugee/ migrant background. He’s also the outdoor piano man in his free time.

Landscape artist and creative Elliott Nimmo is enjoying discovering Hobart’s vibrant art scene and local environment after relocating here from London to pursue his art.

Even though Tasmania is known for its mild summers, it doesn’t take much to get sunburnt. Tasmania experiences extreme ultraviolet (UV) levels, but contrary to popular belief this isn’t due to the hole in the ozone layer, which is actually south of the continent.While higher UV levels often occur at the same time as higher temperatures, the two are not linked. Instead, UV levels are determined by the angle of the sun in the sky: the higher the sun, the higher the UV. In December and January, the position of the sun over Tasmania gives the state a UV index of 11 or more on most days, which is classified as “extreme” on the UV index. Tasmania’s lack of humidity and generally clear skies contribute to the stinging feeling of the sun. UV can reflect off buildings and water, making it possible to get a higher dose of UV from these reflected rays, even in the shade.

Setting up shop during a pandemic was a risky move, but if the crowd at Dāna Eating House (Dāna) on a Friday night is anything to go by, it’s one that’s paid off. With tables of diners chatting and laughing over drinks, the music and conversation buzzes off the monstera-leaf-green walls. Low-hanging rattan lights and worn wooden floorboards give the newly opened South-East Asian fusion venue in Hobart’s CBD a relaxed vibe.

A Holyman flagged ship hasn’t steamed up the River Derwent since 1984 but the company’s name still proudly adorns its former offices at 5 Morrison Street, Hobart.

Widening the Tasman Bridge to allow 3.5 metres on each side is a big win for walkers and cyclists.

Need a laugh? Check out @theinspiredunemployed feed on Instagram.

Rain, hail and shine, the school crossing guards are always there to help with a smile on their face.

It’s hard to believe it’s not standard practice to have a working phone in every aged care room - shared phones make private conversations impossible and increase the risk of spreading COVID-19.

Just when you think your cousins are alright. NZ Opposition Leader Judith Collins took aim at Tassie during her recent (unsuccessful) campaign, calling us Australia’s “poor cousin.” She also seems worried about us nabbing tech businesses, “It’s a lovely part of the world but do you necessarily want to go there with your high- tech business? Possibly not,” she said. We beg to differ!