Christmas lunch in New Norfolk

A FREE Christmas lunch will be available at the St Matthew's Church Hall in Bathurst St, New Norfolk, from noon tomorrow (Christmas Day). The lunch is provided by the churches of New Norfolk, particularly for those who may be on their own at Christmas. The theme is "bring a friend or come and make a friend." Lunch starts at noon and there will be a concert at 2pm. For more information, to request transport or to make a booking (to assist with catering) phone 6261 1528 or 6261 1627.

Last chance to see Santa this year

Gazette office closes but paper carries on

STAFF of the Derwent Valley Gazette are to transfer to head office in Hobart following the closure of the New Norfolk office today. The newspaper published its Christmas issue today and will be on its annual hiatus until January 12.

The Gazette's journalist will in future be contactable on 6230 0443, fax 6230 0711 or gazette@dbl.newsltd.com.au, while the contact numbers for advertising are 6230 0774 and fax 6230 0766. Classified advertising can be placed at the New Norfolk Newsagency in High St.

Oval sale queried

A DECISION about the sale of the Willow Court oval at New Norfolk would be made soon, Mayor Martyn Evans said at last week's Derwent Valley Council meeting. The mayor was responding to a public question from New Norfolk resident Len Butterworth, who asked what process would be followed now that the sale of the oval had "fallen through". Councillor Evans sidestepped the issue of the status of the proposed sale of the oval and said the "oval contract" would be dealt with following the completion of a report by Malcolm McDonald. General manager Stephen Mackey said the report was due by Christmas Eve.

Quince on the verandah

A NEW eatery has opened in the New Norfolk restaurant formerly known as Verandah's in the Valley. "Quince" opened at the weekend and local produce is understood to be a feature. Verandah's had a brief re-opening at Fathers' Day but unforseen circumstances resulted in its closing again shortly afterwards.

The welcome arrival of "Quince" follows the recent opening of The Olive Tree restuarant in the former "Nosh Pit" in George St and the new Patchwork Cafe nearby in the grounds of Willow Court (see picture below). Congratulations to the people behind all three ventures.

One down...

THE first planter box has been removed from Burnett St, New Norfolk, in a trial run prior to the complete withdrawal of the unpopular  fixtures. Derwent Valley Council works manager Stewart Taylor selected the box in the middle of the street between Liberty petrol station and Beaurepaires tyre outlet, widely regard as the worst-located and most dangerous from a road-stafety point of view. Following the complete removal of the planter boxes, the badly-damaged surface of Burnett St will be reconstructed in a project funded over several financial years.

LETTER: A visitor's view

WE'VE just returned from eight great days in Tasmania, including three nights in New Norfolk. We enjoyed the accommodation on the Derwent, the historical and river walk and the friendly towns people, but we thought there was much needed to be done to encourage travellers like us to return.

1. While everywhere in the state was a blaze of colour, New Norfolk's High St didn't have a tree, shrub or planter box - despite there being numerous areas on the widened footpaths for tubs of flowers for example. The only skerrick of green was the roundabout with a couple of sorry dying plants surrounded by weeds. The whole impression was negative and unwelcoming. What does council plan for the street?

2. On Sunday night which was cold, windy and drizzly, we found we couldn't park outside the Chinese restaurant because only 30 minute parking was allowed - how absurd given there were no more than four cars parked in the entire street. We live near Manly in Sydney, which is a hugely popular tourist destination and after 6pm people have unlimited free street parking. Our response was to drive back to our accommodation and cook our own meal which was great for local business - not. Who decided to extend these restrictions to weekends and evenings and why? Is a review planned?

3. What's the story with Willow Court? We saw what are obviously lovely heritage buildings neglected and fenced off and while we were there a building was torched - a terrific news story for tourists.

N. Monshall
NSW

LETTER: Lack of services

WITH the Derwent Valley recently being thrust into the spotlight for unthinkable acts, the community still manages to be left without its common services from police and ambulance. A regular day for paramedics tends to leave the Valley without an ambulance (for any medical emergencies) for lengthy periods of time. There is also a lack of police services available in the town of New Norfolk.

Only a month ago a young man suffering from a then undiagnoised anaphylaxis rushed into a pharmacy for help. Pharmacy staff phoning the ambulance service were told it was in Hobart and the closest ambulance came from Mornigton. Thank heavens for pharmacy and medical centre staff and a doctor. Recently an elderly man fell and knocked his head in High St. He was assisted by bystandersand left waiting in the street for 15 minutes due to the New Norfolk ambulance being in Hobart.

In all fairness our ambulance service is stretched and they do an amazing job, but when is the Governemnt  going to realise we need more and better facilities from these services?  The Derwent Valley isn't the only municipality crying out for this. Volunteers are essential to the ambulance service but why aren't they all being trained to just under paramedic level? This would help ease some of the pressure.

With recent armed holdups in the town it's little wonder many people are talking about the lack of police services and presence. Whilst we have great services when available, what is anyone to do if they are in need of urgent attention?

N.L.

Gretna Under-15 cricketers

THE Gretna Under-15 cricket team, photographed by Wade Gleeson at Gretna. Back row from left: vice captain Aaron Dawes, Brodie Gleeson, Joshua Raspin, Zac Webb, Kia Wilton and Jeremy Nossiter. Front from left: Aiden Russell, Joshua Whitford, Alex Blair, Joshua Russell and captain Aaron Triffitt. Absent Dylan Carver.

Gretna Under-13 cricketers

THE Gretna Under 13 cricket team, photographed by Wade Gleeson at Gretna. Back row from left: Connor Salter, Daniel Browning, captain Reece Williams, Jacksyn Mann, coach Bruce Emery, Joshua Farrow, Jock Parsons and Tom Parsons. Front row from left: Luke Crosswell, Jack Stevenson, Aiden Russell, Ryan Emery and Rupert Johnston.

Meet the Milo cricketers

PARTICIPANTS in the Milo In2Cricket program at Glenora District High School had their final session last Friday week, followed by a barbecue. Annie McKenzie and Natasha Farrow co-ordinated the program with help from the Gretna Cricket Club and senior players Darren Lennox, Brian Smith, Rhys Browning, Ben Shaw and Nathan Rainbird. Congratulations to everyone involved in running the program.

Annie McKenzie snapped the above photos of the Milo cricketers at the Gretna Recreation Ground. In the back row are, from left: George Lazenby, Hayden Davis, Sam Plunkett-Smith, Jack Triffett, Johannes Duindam, Sophie Farrow and Jed Plunkett-Smith. Front from left: Harry Townsend, Nicholaas Duindam, Dylan Davis, Connor Gittus, Conor Kelly-Lennox, Mia Temple and Kane Lovell.

Derwent Dollar smiles

Derwent Valley Mayor Martyn Evans was photographed on Saturday with the winners from the Derwent Dollars Draw conducted after the New Norfolk Christmas Parade.

Arsonists attack

FIRE caused a reported $100,000 damage to the abandoned Ward 9 at the former Royal Derwent Hospital yesterday morning. Contrary to other media reports, the fire was not at Willow Court. The New Norfolk Fire Brigade responded at about 1.30am and was still at the scene when a fire was reported at the historic Rainbow Cottages in George St just before 3am. Damage was limited to the kitchen of one of the conjoined cottages. Both fires were believed to have been deliberately lit. The Mercury has more here.

Gretna junior cricket - round seven

THE Under 13s lost only five wickets in their 25 overs against Wellington at Gretna on Sunday. This shows great concentration. Well done kids - a win is just around the corner. Gretna 5-42 off 25 lost to Wellington 0-71 off 25. Batting: Jacksyn Mann 7no (1 four), Jack Stevenson 7, Reece Williams 2 retired, Ryan Emery 2. Bowling: Hannah Mann 0-1, Joshua Hills 0-4, Reece Williams 0-5, Joshua Farrow 0-5, Tom Parsons 0-6, Rupert Johnston 0-7, Jock Parsons 0-7, Jacksyn Mann 0-7.

The Under 15s didn't have a good day, being bowled out for 14. The highlight was when 12th man Nick Wakefield was given a bat at the end. Nick showed his team mates how it was done, batting with Alex Blair for four overs. Well done Nick, you looked good in your first game. Who said the 12th man couldn't bat? 

Gretna 10-14 off 10.2 overs lost to kingborough Gold 2-215 off 40 overs at Gretna. Batting: Joshua Whitford 5, Nathan Wakfield 3, Joshua Raspin 2. Bowling: Aaron Triffitt 1-12 off eight overs, Nathan Wakfield 1-11 off three overs.

This weekend the juniors will play two games at Gretna between each other. Under 13s start at 9am and the Under 15s at 12.30. This will be followed by the Christmas party - please remember your raffle book.

WADE GLEESON 

2010 Christmas parade

HUNDREDS attended the New Norfolk Christmas Parade in High St yesterday, cementing the event's reputation as one of the best and brightest. About 40 entries were received for the pageant, which as usual did two laps of High St. Mayor Martyn Evans judged the entries and awarded the following prizes:

• Best overall: Our Patch combined schools entry
• Runner-up: Derwent Valley Dance Company
• Best decorated vehicle: Derwent Valley Players (Wizard of Oz)
• Best emergency services presentation: New Norfolk Ambulance
• Best business presentation: Norske Skog (bumble bee and dragon cars)
• Best community activity presentation: New Norfolk Scouts

River traffic re-opened

A SMALL flotilla of boats led by the historic motor launch Egeria, with Tasmanian Governor Peter Underwood on board, passed under the Bridgewater Bridge for the first time in four years yesterday, to mark the completion of the $14 million upgrade works and the restoration of the bridge to full operational status.
Federal Member for Lyons, Dick Adams MHR, joined the Tasmanian Minister for Infrastructure, David O’Byrne MHA, at the bridge re-opening ceremony, and said the upgrade was a significant milestone.

“Bridgewater Bridge is the largest surviving lift span bridge in Australia, and the only bridge of its type in Tasmania,” Mr Adams said. “The upgrade has given this local icon a new lease of life, allowing it to operate at full functionality for at least the next 15 years. The work has ensured that the bridge will remain functional while we continue planning for the possible future construction of a new bridge.”

As well as repairs to the bridge and lifting mechanism, the project included work to widen lanes and install a new roundabout at the nearby Lyell Highway junction. Mr O’Byrne, aid the refurbishment project was equally important for both road and river traffic. “As well as restoring access to New Norfolk for recreational boats and ferries, the upgrade has greatly improved road safety and enhanced traffic efficiency for motorists,” he said.

Thumbs-up for Esplanade

WATER quality in the River Derwent at the New Norfolk Esplanade has been rated as "good" following a water monitoring review by the Derwent Estuary Program. Spokeswoman Christine Coughanowr said the review of data from the past five years would help people to make an informed decision about where and when to swim.

“Each week over summer, water quality is tested at 35 beaches and bays up and down the Derwent estuary, between New Norfolk and Opossum Bay,” Ms Coughanowr said. “Each site is classified as having good, fair or poor water quality in accordance with state and national guidelines.”

Top-ranked beaches in the Derwent include Opossum Bay, Hinsby and Taroona beaches, Blackmans Bay and Little Sandy Bay. Other sites classified as having good water quality include New Norfolk Esplanade, Kingston Beach (middle), Bellerive Beach and Little Howrah Beach.

Beaches classified as having fair water quality include Howrah Beach, Nutgrove (eastern end), Kingston Beach (northern and southern ends) and Windemere Bay. Ms Coughanowr said several popular recreational areas have a poor water quality classification, including the western end of Nutgrove Beach, New Town Bay, Cornelian Bay, Marieville Esplanade and Browns River at Kingston. Swimming at these sites is not recommended, according to state and national guidelines.

“Signs installed at popular swimming sites and foreshore parks indicate whether the long-term water quality is good, fair or poor and can be easily changed if and when sampling results are poor,” Ms Coughanowr said. "Water samples are taken on a weekly basis from December through March and are analysed for specific bacteria which indicate the presence of contaminants such as sewage and stormwater run-off,” she said.

During summer the test results are published in the Saturday Mercury newspaper.

Christmas calendar

THERE'S a lot happening in the Derwent Valley in the lead-up to Christmas. Here's a calendar of Christmas events coming up over the next few weeks:

• December 10 (Friday): Carols in the Country, Molesworth Recreation Ground, 6-8pm. Food and drinks on sale.
• December 11 (Saturday): New Norfolk Christmas Parade, High St, noon. Followed by Derwent Dollars draw (see this week's Derwent Valley Gazette).
• December 13 (Monday): New Norfolk Carols by Candlelight, Tynwald Park Oval, 7.30pm.
• December 16 (Thursday): Meet Santa at Glasser & Parker New Norfolk, 37 High St, 11am-1pm & 2-4pm.
• December 17 (Friday): Meet Santa at Glasser & Parker New Norfolk, 37 High St, 11am-1pm & 2-4pm.
• December 18 (Saturday): The Derwent Valley Players present The Wizard of Oz Christmas pantomime, New Norfolk War Memorial Hall, 2pm and 5pm, admission $5 children, $10 adults, $20 family. Info: Roz 0403 858 210.
• December 19 (Sunday): Derwent Valley Council Community Christmas Barbecue, Willow Court Barrack Square, 2-5pm. All welcome.
• December 19 (Sunday): Ellendale Carols & sausage sizzle, 6pm.
• December 19 (Sunday): The Derwent Valley Players present The Wizard of Oz Christmas pantomime, New Norfolk War Memorial Hall, 2pm and 5pm, admission $5 children, $10 adults, $20 family. Info: Roz 0403 858 210.
• December 21 (Tuesday): Dick Adams MHR New Norfolk office open day, 58a High St, 2.30-6pm. RSVP by December 15, 6261 3366.
• December 24 (Friday): Meet Santa at Glasser & Parker New Norfolk, 37 High St, 11am-1pm.
• December 25 (Saturday): Christmas Day service, St Peter's Anglican Church, Hamilton, 10am.

See Santa in New Norfolk

Local link in King Island crash

A FORMER Derwent Valley man is at the centre of an emergency landing at King Island Airport this morning. Imran Ismawi, who left New Norfolk High School in 2000, was at the controls of an aircraft which crash-landed with a government minister, staff and media on board. The Mercury's initial report can be read here and the ABC's story is here.

Aird's office closed

THE New Norfolk office of retiring Legislative Councillor Michael Aird had been closed for about two months, the Upper House of State Parliament heard recently. In the days following Mr Aird's announcement that he would retire early next year, there was much scuttlebut about potential successors, including former Lyons MHA David Llewellyn.

Speaking in the Legislative Council on November 17, Huon MLC Paul Harriss asked whether Mr Aird would "assist in organising the numbers for David Llewellyn to make a comeback when you vacate your seat of Derwent?" He continued: "Can you confirm that the office that you share in New Norfolk with Mr Llewellyn is still adorned with his name even eight months after the election?"

With other members laughing, Mr Aird said he was not going to publicly discuss his preference for a candidate to replace him. "In relation to the office in the Derwent Valley, it is a bit like a dead parrot. That office has been closed for some time," he said.

"The fact is that we terminated the lease on that office, I would think six or eight weeks ago, on the basis of finding another establishment. I thought there would be a vacant shop in High St in New Norfolk but the economy is going so well in the Derwent Valley that there are no vacant retail spaces for an office for the next member for Derwent."

Mayor chases bank robber

THE New Norfolk branch of MyState Financial was closed following a daylight robbery this afternoon. The Mercury and the ABC have the story, including Mayor Martyn Evans' pursuit of the alleged thief. Read the Mercury story here and the ABC report here.

Junior cricket report

WITH a fine but overcast day, both of the Gretna Cricket Club's junior teams played without interruption from rain. The Under 13 batsmen did a great job to bat out all of their 25 overs with Josh Russell top-scoring with 14 runs. Zac Crosswell made 12 and James Webb made 11 runs (retired). Five of the Gretna bowlers took wickets with Finlay Crisp the best with 1 for 3 off two overs.

In the Under 15s it was again another close one with the boys going down by only 13 runs. Captain Aaron Triffitt showed great control, making a superb 51 runs (not out). The team was at one stage 7 for 34 but recovered to be all out for 91. To show the closeness of the game, Glenorchy batting first was also 7 for 34.

Zac Webb, who came to the wicket when we were reeling at 8 for 47, put on a 38 run partnership with Aaron Triffitt. Although Aaron made most of the 38 runs it was Zac who showed great character and stood tall when the team needed him most. For the bowlers it was again Dylan Carver in the limelight taking 3 for 8 off four overs. Thanks to Dylan’s mum Celia for scoring, a top job, well done.

It is great to see the big improvement from all 37 junior players over the past weeks, well done, keep up the good work. While on the subject of good work, the club would like to thank the Glenora District High School and in particular Lyn Saunders for the work in having a synthetic pitch laid and having the ground in order for the Under 13s on Sunday. Thanks also to Natasha Farrow for opening the change rooms. All this has allowed the juniors to retain home games when the Gretna ground is being used by our senior teams, otherwise we would have further travel. Thank you, it’s very much appreciated.

To all the Milo cricketers, we look forward to seeing you at Gretna for your last session and a barbecue on Friday afternoon. It will be great to see our future stars in action.

SCORES - UNDER 13: Glenorchy 5 for 83 off 25 overs defeated Gretna 7 for 54 off 25 overs at Glenora High School. Batting - Joshua Russell 14 runs (1 four), Zac Crosswell 12, James Webb 11 runs retired (1 four), Aiden Russell 8, Zac Carnes 4, Joshua Hills 3, Jacob Bowerman 1, Luke crosswell 1no. Bowling - Finlay Crisp 1-3 off 2 overs, Zac Carnes 1-5 off 2 overs, Jacob Bowerman 1-7 off 2 overs, Luke Crosswell 1-10 off 2 overs, Joshua Russell 1-15 off overs.

UNDER 15: Glenorchy 10 for 104 off 29.3 overs defeated Gretna 10 for 91 off 23.2 overs at Cadbury 2. Batting - Aaron Triffitt 51 runs (8 fours, 1 six), Trent Grant 5, Brodie Gleeson 4. Bowling: Dylan Carver 3-8 off 4 overs, Nathan Wakefield 2-13 off 4 overs, Z. Webb 1-8 off 4 overs, Connor Salter 1-13 off 4, Aaron Dawes 1-14 off 4 overs, Brodie Gleeson 1-15 off 2.3 overs, Aaron Triffitt 3-2 off 4 overs, Alex Blair 0-28 off 2 overs.
 
Next games,- round six, Sunday 12th December. Under 13 v Wellington at Gretna. Under 15 v Kingborough Gold at Gretna.

WADE GLEESON

Farrell: no resignation

LEGISLATIVE Council candidate Craig Farrell today said he did not intend to stand down from his position as deputy mayor of the Derwent Valley Council. The announcement followed a report in today's Sunday Tasmanian which said Mr Farrell would resign the deputy mayorship tomorrow. To the contrary, Mr Farrell said it was his intention to serve out his full term.

Announcing his candidacy yesterday, Mr Farrell said he was looking forward to the challenge of the election campaign and was hopeful of being elected as a strong voice for the Derwent electorate following Michael Aird's recent decision to retire.

“The Derwent electorate is extremely diverse ranging from regional communities to the suburbs of Brighton, Bridgewater, Claremont and Old Beach,” Mr Farrell said. “There are many issues facing the Derwent electorate and key ones that I will be concentrating on are the rising costs of living, jobs growth, regional development and aged care.”

A former Labor candidate for the lower house seat of Lyons, Mr Farrell was elected to the Derwent Valley Council in 2002 and became deputy mayor in 2009. He said his time as a local government representative had given him a genuine understanding of people’s needs in local communities. “People in local communities are finding it pretty tough to make ends meet and many are also facing an uncertain employment future. I want to work with our communities to bring about improvement in people’s lives,” he said.

Mr Farrell is married with four children and works in the New Norfolk office of the Federal Member for Lyons, Dick Adams MHR. He heads the Derwent Valley Railway and is a member of the New Norfolk Lions Club.

Bartlett annoints Farrell for Derwent

PREMIER David Bartlett has today named Derwent Valley Council deputy mayor Craig Farrell as the Labor Party’s candidate for the Legislative Council seat of Derwent. “Craig has proven his commitment to the local community, with eight years of service on the Derwent Valley Council, including the past year as Deputy Mayor,” Mr Bartlett said.

The incumbent, Michael Aird MLC, recently announced his intention to retire. “I’m pleased that Craig wants to serve ... in State Parliament, and believes standing for the Labor Party is the best way to do that,” Mr Bartlett said.

“Michael Aird has represented this community with passion and dedication for several years. I’m sure Craig would bring many of the same qualities to the job,” Mr Bartlett said. “Craig has indicated his priorities will be local jobs, and helping Tasmanians to ease the cost of living. I’m pleased that his goals and values match those of the government,” he said.

Family centre for Ellis Dean Reserve

LAND on the Ellis Dean Reserve in Blair St, New Norfolk, had been chosen as the site for a $2.5m purpose-built Derwent Valley Child and Family Centre, Labor Lyons MHA Rebecca White said yesterday. “The ... recommendation comes after an extensive consultation process started in February 2010 at the initial community stakeholder meeting,” Ms White said.

Ms White said the Child and Family Centre's aim would be to improve the health, wellbeing, education and care of Tasmania’s very young children by supporting parents and enhancing accessibility of services in the local community.

"Social Inclusion community liasion officer Katrina Higgins along with volunteers consulted with the primary stakeholders – parents and carers of children currently 0-5 years. Community feedback was overwhelming that the centre should be on town side where all other services are presently located," Ms White said.

Ms White said she was impressed with the way the Derwent Valley community has embraced the Child and Family Centre and the establishment process. “There have been preliminary discussions around access, transport and providing services in other locations, for example Fairview Primary School. This project is bigger than an actual building, it’s a whole new way of working with families,” Ms White said.

“The new Child and Family Centre will give children living in the Derwent Valley the best possible start in life. There will be a celebration at Ellis Dean Reserve to mark the site recommendation in the New Year which will be advertised."

For more information: www.education.tas.gov.au/childandfamily

New wheels for local learners

A NEW car to help young learner drivers in the Derwent Valley was delivered to the Derwent Valley Community House. State treasurer and Derwent MLC Michael Aird said the car had been provided under the "Cars for Communities" program which had funded 29 organisations to purchase vehicles for a range of community transport services.
“This will help young people who might not otherwise have access to family members or professional driving instructors," Mr Aird said. “Many people find it hard to participate in community life simply because they don’t have access to transport. Research has shown that the level of supervised driving experience in a range of conditions is a key factor in reducing the risk of young drivers being involved in a crash,” he said.

Mr Aird said not being able to obtain a driver’s licence could also disadvantage young people in terms of access to employment and training opportunities. “The Learner Driver Mentoring Program was developed in response to this need, with the first programs established in 2005,” Mr Aird said.

“These programs are community-run, providing learner drivers in need of assistance with the opportunity to develop their on-road driving experience. This is the first time that the program has been run in New Norfolk, after being run successfully in other parts of the State. They help disadvantaged learner drivers access a suitable vehicle and responsible supervisory driver to gain on-road driving experience, including their required 50 hours in the L2 learner stage.”

Mr Aird said the learner driver program would be run by the Derwent Valley Community House, which could be contacted on 6261 5230 for more information.

Christmas parade coming up

THE 12th annual New Norfolk Christmas Parade will be held on Saturday, December 11. The Derwent Valley Concert Band will proudly head the parade, which will set off from Circle St at noon. There will be plenty of entertainment including the Derwent Scottish Pipe Band and new attractions including a large contingent from combined schools of the Derwent Valley. The plan as usual will be to depart from Circle St, proceed down High St, around Arthur Square by way of Stephen St, Pioneer Ave and Bathurst St and return back along High St to finish at Circle St.

A Derwent Dollars Draw will take place outside the Post Office 1.15pm. The winners must be in attendance to claim their prizes. Entry coupons appear in the Derwent Valley Gazette on Dec 1 & 8 and the entry box will be found in Glasser & Parker's New Norfolk store from December 2 up until 1.10pm on parade day. All entries must be attached to a receipt to the value of $5 from participating New Norfolk businesses listed in a large advertisement in the Gazette this week and next.

Organiser Ngaire Glover said there was still time for new entries to be registered. Local businesses are strongly encouraged to enter the parade, with a number already having booked their spot. For further information contact Ngaire Glover 0419 337 608 as soon as possible.

Bridge to close for official opening

THE Bridgewater Bridge would be temporarily closed to all traffic on the morning of December 11 while a special ceremony was held to mark the restoration of the bridge liftspan to full operation, deputy premier Lara Giddings said today. Ms Giddings said the lifting span would be opened to enable a flotilla of boats to travel under the bridge to mark its first lift in four years.

“It will be great to see the Bridgewater Bridge restored to full operation,” Ms Giddings said. “The bridge is a Tasmanian icon and the fact that it will be able to open once again is good news for boat traffic up the Derwent. The bridge will be closed from 10.30 to 11.45am on December 11 while the ceremony is under way, and we apologise in advance for any temporary inconvenience to motorists."

“To prevent unnecessary queuing and delays, motorists are asked to use the Bowen and New Norfolk Bridges during this time,” Ms Giddings said.

Gretna cricket notes

FOLLOWING last weekend's junior marches, special mentions must go to three of the Gretna Cricket Club's former players: Darren Stevenson for buying a broom to sweep the water from the pitch, Kevin Williams for yet another top job with the scoring, and Owen Browning for not only umpiring the Under 13 game but also the Under 15 game at Rokeby. 

Thanks also to Jarrod Nossiter for again helping out with the scoring for the Under 15 game. His ever-sharp pencil keeps the book in great order.

We appreciate senior players Darren Lennox, Rhys Browning, Corey Ransley and Nathan Rainbird coming along to training last Friday night to present new playing tops to the juniors. The players look very smart in their tops, featuring the club colours and emblem. These same guys and Brian Smith helped out with the young Milo cricketers around at Glenora High School. The kids enjoyed every minute and I hear they nicknamed the guys the Big Milo Kids!

WADE GLEESON

Gretna junior cricket - November 28

AFTER yet another wet Saturday night the Gretna Under 13s travelled to Cornelian Bay where they were just beaten by New Town. New Town batting first made a total of 10 for 68 runs off 16.3 overs, with seven of the Gretna players picking up wickets. Bowling: Zac Carnes made 2 for 1 off three balls, Tom Parsons 2-12 off two overs, Jack Stevenson 1-6 off two, Jacksyn Mann 1-7 off two, Hanna Mann 1-8 off two, and Josh Farrow - after bowling well in the Under 15s last weekend - continued his good form with the ball taking 1-0 off two overs.

In reply, Gretna put up a great contest, going down by just seven runs, finishing up 10-61 off 23.2 overs. Daniel Browning top-scored with a fine 15 runs which included three 4s. Next best was Daniel's younger brother Ryan who made eight runs with one 4. Well done Ryan and congratulations on playing your first game. Other run scorers were Tom Parsons with seven and Ryan Emery scoring 5 (one 4). An interesting statistic from the Gretna innings was that all players were bowled out except Ryan Emery who was run out. Keep up the great work team, you are all playing great cricket.

The Under 15s travelled to North Warrane to play Clarence but a double booking saw the game transferred to the Rokeby Village Green. Due to the change of venue and the need to remove water from the pitch, the game was reduced from 40 to 35 overs.

In a close and exciting game, Gretna defeated Clarence by one wicket. It went down to the final over. With one wicket remaining, Clarence needed eight runs to win. The cool, calm and collected Dylan Carver bowled the perfect over - a maiden - the every ball on the spot. Final scores were Gretna 10 for 105 off 34.4 overs and Clarence 9 for 98 off 35 overs. It was the Gretna boys' first win.   

Captain Aaron Triffitt led from the front with a fine 45 which included eight 4s and one 6. Aaron's innings lasted 25 overs which include a 38 run partnership with Dylan Carver (who batted very patiently) and a 29 run partnership with Jeremy Nositter who made 15 runs (one 4 & one 6). First-gamer Trent Grant made seven runs (one 4) and also did a good job with the gloves. 

There were some great spells of bowling throughout the Clarence innings. Aaron Triffitt took 3-2 off for overs, Josh Raspin 2-6 off 4, Jeremy Nossiter 1-6 off 4, Aaron Dawes 1-8 off 4 and Nathan Wakefield 1-9 off 2. The boys held every catch that came their way, in particular Brodie Gleeeson who took a ripper at first slip. Well done boys, you all showed great improvement and commitment when batting or bowling.
 
Next games: Round 6, Sunday, December 5- Under 13 v Glenorchy at Glenora District High School. Under 15 v Glenorchy at Cadbury No. 2.

Thorpie backs local produce

OLYMPIC swimming champion Ian Thorpe and renowned restaurateur Tetsuya Wakuda were in the Derwent Valley today to visit Tim Reid's extensive cherry farm at Plenty. Thorpe and Tetsuya will join deputy premier Lara Giddings on a trade mission to Japan to promote Tasmania’s cherry industry.

“Tasmania’s cherries are world class and it is testament to the quality we produce that Japanese buyers are so open to our produce,” Ms Giddings said today. “Japanese markets are noted for demanding the highest quality so having celebrities of the calibre of Ian Thorpe and Tetsuya to help us to promote our produce will help to raise the profile of the local cherry industry – particularly when we are marketing Japanese cherries to the Japanese."

“Tim Reid from Reid Fruits will be joining us in Tokyo and I congratulate him for the quality of his product and for his innovative marketing. Tim has worked tirelessly to develop a market in Japan for the Japanese cherries he grows at Plenty, including negotiating changes to Japanese legislation and satisfying stringent quarantine regulations, which has had benefits for Tasmania’s wider cherry industry," Ms Giddings said.

Reid Fruits has about 30,000 Japanese cherry trees growing on its orchard at Plenty, with fruit selling for $50 to $80 per kilogram in Japan.

The ABC has more here and the Mercury's report is here.

Decorations see the light again

THANKS to local businesses and volunteers, it is looking a lot more like Christmas in New Norfolk's High St this year.

The New Norfolk Business Alliance and the Derwent Valley Chamber of Commerce have teamed up with volunteers from the New Norfolk Lions Club and Derwent Valley Regional Arts to dust off the town's Christmas decorations, which had not been seen for several years.

Local staff of Aurora Energy volunteered their time to install the decorations on central business district light poles early on Thursday morning. Congratulations to all involved in this team effort.

Landmark tourist attraction saved

A GOOD samaritan, a barking dog, multiple triple-zero callers and the highly trained members of the New Norfolk Fire Brigade prevented this morning's Old Colony Inn fire from being much worse.

A suspected electrical fault ignited in the roof of the Montagu St building around 5am and was well alight when the fire brigade arrived shorly afterwards.

Owners James and Lydia Graham were woken by a passerby who saw the fire and raised the alarm. Around the same time, their neighbour's dog sensed the danger and alerted its owner who then called triple zero. Mr Graham trained a fire hose on the fire until the arrival of the local brigade with multiple vehicles and about 15 firefighters.

Contrary to early media reports, the bed and breakfast accommodation section of the Inn was not occupied at the time of the fire and will now be closed for repairs following extensive damage to the roof.

Mr and Mrs Graham were unharmed and look forward to having their restaurant and tea garden open as soon as possible.

See the Mercury newspaper's report and photo gallery here.

UPDATE: Damage to the structure and some contents was estimated between $350,000 and $400,000.

Quarry quandary

ABC journalist Flint Duxfield has reported on the proposed Lachlan quarry development on the ABC Rural website and it can be read here. Included are comments from the developer, Danny Hills.

Festival fantastic

A BUSY program has been organised for the third annual Lachlan Festival this Sunday, November 28. The festival is a free event held at Gleeson Park at Lachlan, with market stalls, live music, a range of food,  entertainment, raffles and prizes.

Tasmanian Wilderness Experiences will operate a free shuttle bus between the festival and the associated open day at Willow Court in New Norfolk. Visit www.lachlanvalley.com.au/festival.htm for full details of the festival and the bus schedule.

Gates open this weekend

THE Willow Court Barracks and adjacent areas will be open to the public this weekend thanks to the ongoing efforts of the Willow Court and Barracks Working Group. Entry will be by gold coin donation this Saturday and Sunday. The open days coincide with the annual Lachlan Festival being held this Sunday.

Working Group chairman John Boutchard said the committee had organised a number of activities for the weekend, with the major focus being on Sunday. "These will include readings from histories of the site and atmospheric presentations by members of the Derwent Valley Players. A free bus service will also be provided between Willow Court and the Lachlan Festival Grounds for patrons wishing to travel between them," Mr Boutchard said.

Mr Boutchard said the Working Group would start its “If the Walls Could Talk” project this weekend. "This project aims to record the oral history of the former Royal Derwent Hospital, which included the barracks and surrounding wards.  Ex-staff and patients’ families with stories and accounts from their time spent or their family’s experiences at Royal Derwent Hospital are being asked to share them for future preservation and protection before they become lost," he said. Anyone who would like to share their stories and memories of their time at the hospital can contact Aiden Sullivan on 0458 941 102.

Gretna junior cricket results

GRETNA Cricket Club secretary Wade Gleeson has provided the following results from the first four rounds of the junior season. Rounds 1 and 3 were washed out. Round 2 was played on November 7.

Under 13: Gretna 9-87 off 25 overs drew with Brighton 4-87 off 25 overs. Batting:  Jacksyn Mann 35 (4 fours, 2 sixes), Connor Salter 11 not out (2 fours), Ryan Emery 10 (1 four). Bowling: Daniel Browning 2 for 5 off two overs, Luke Crosswell 1 for 2 off two overs. Ryan Emery 1 for 5 off three overs. 

Under 15:  South Hobart/Sandy Bay 10-177 off 33 overs defeated Gretna 10-70 off 23.3 overs. Batting: Brodie Gleeson 9, Aaron Dawes 8, Nathan Wakefield 6no. Bowling: Josh Raspin 3 for 9 off five overs, Jeremy Nossiter 2-8 off four overs, Aaron Triffitt 2-26 off eight overs, Aaron Dawes 2-14 off four overs, Alex Blair 1--22 off four overs.

Round four was played yesterday, November 21. Under 13: Glenorchy 9-103 off 25 overs defeated Gretna 10-88 off 24.2 overs. Batting: Zac Crosswell 16, Zac Carnes 11 (1 four), Josh Russell 5no. Bowling: Zac Crosswell 4-14 off three overs, Luke Crosswell 1-4 off two overs, Hanna Mann 1-5 off two overs, Josh Hills 1-12 off three overs, Dylan Downie 1-14 off two overs.

Under 15: Kingborough Black 6-228 off 40 overs defeated Gretna 10-56 off 25 overs. Batting: Connor Salter 5no, Zac Webb 4, Josh Raspin 3, Alex Blair 2. Bowling: Aaron Triffitt 1-11 off five overs, Josh Farrow 1-9 off three overs, Jacksyn Mann 1-15 off three overs, Dylan Carver 1-18 off three overs, Zak Webb 1-22 off three overs, Brodie Gleeson 1-26 off four overs.

This Sunday the Under 13s will play New Town at Cornelian Bay and the Under 15s will play Clarence at North Warrane Oval.

Tourism downturn discussed

ABOUT 80 Derwent Valley tourism operators met a Ellendale yesterday to discuss a downturn in the industry, ABC Radio reported today. Convenor Nigel Tomlin told ABC 936 Hobart's Afternoons program that the situation had not been helped by major players including by Hydro Tasmania and Forestry Tasmania.

Mr Tomlin said the Hydro had closed its tourist facilities at Strathgordon, and Forestry Tasmania had sited is Eagles Eyrie near Maydena development in a location that could not be reached by car.

The ABC's report can be read here.

In the swim at Bushy Park

IT was a near-perfect day for the annual re-opening of the Bushy Par War Memorial Swimming Pool today. New lifeguard/caretaker Ian Lacey welcomed a pleasing number of visitors who took advantage of the opportunity for a swim as the temperature neared 20 degrees. Learn-to-swim lessons will be conducted for Glenora and Ouse students over the next two weeks.

The Bushy Park Pool is open from 3-6pm on school days, 10am-7pm on weekends and public holidays, and from noon-6pm on weekdays during the school holidays. Admission is $3 for adults and $1.50 for children and spectators. Season tickets cost $130 per family, $60 for adults and $50 for children.

• The New Norfolk Olympic Swimming Pool has been open since last month.

Green praise for New Norfolk

THE Tasmanian Greens this week congratulated the residents of New Norfolk, the Derwent Valley Council and the Tidy Towns Committee on their success in winning the 2010 Tasmanian Tidy Towns Award. Greens MHA, Tim Morris, who lives in New Norfolk, said the award was recognition of the hard work done by the residents to keep their picturesque town neat and tidy.

“Congratulations to all members of the New Norfolk community for their hard work and dedication to beautifying their town, and most importantly, for the love of place that is evident to all who visit New Norfolk,” Mr Morris said. “This is not just about picking up litter, it is about a whole-of-town approach. This recognition puts New Norfolk on the map and hopefully it will encourage Tasmanians and visitors to our state to swing by and check-out what the town and its environs have to offer,” Mr Morris said.

• The Keep Australia Beautiful national judge visitied New Norfolk this Monday and Tuesday to assess the town for the Australian tidy town award, to be announced next year.

Second meeting on quarry fears

ABOUT 100 people attended a public meeting at the Lachlan Community Hall last Tuesday to discuss the proposal of MSD Construction to re-open a quarry in the area. A follow-up meeting will be held this Tuesday at 7pm to enable local residents to put their concerns to members of the Derwent Valley Council.

The deadline for public comment on the proposal has been extended until November 26 and details of the development can be downloaded from www.epa.tas.gov.au/index.aspx?base=25579

Boyer named an engineering landmark

THE Norske Skog paper mill near New Norfolk has been named one of Australia's engineering heritage national landmarks. Engineers Australia this week honoured Boyer for being the first paper mill in the world to produce newsprint from hardwood eucalypt fibre in 1941.

State Governor Peter Underwood visited the mill on Wednesday to unveiled a heritage marker (pictured) and interpretation panel in front of 60 invited guests. The marker was presented to the mill by Professor Doug Hargreaves, national president of Engineers Australia. Boyer general manager Rod Bender received the marker on behalf of the mill.

The Boyer Mill was established by a consortium of Australian newspaper publishers in response to the shortage of newsprint in Australia during the World War I. The Tasmanian Government supported the mill’s establishment by providing a large timber concession area in the Upper Derwent Valley.

While international experts had advised that Australian hardwoods would not be suitable for paper making due to their inherently short fibres, two young Australian scientists, Lou Benjamin and John Somerville, persevered with their work and established a pilot plant at Kermandie in the Huon Valley. By 1926 this experimental work had produced sheets of paper that could not be distinguished from imported newsprint.

Construction of the Boyer Mill began in 1938 and the first paper was produced in 1941. The use of eucalypt fibre ceased in 2009. Boyer newsprint is now made entirely from softwood plantation timber.

Parliament receives x-ray petition

A PETITION calling for the reopening of x-ray facilities at New Norfolk was tabled in State Parliament yesterday. Lyons Greens MHA Tim Morris said 1032 signatures had been collected in one week, calling for the fully-equipped x-ray facility at the New Norfolk District Hospital to be re-opened, and calling on Health Minister Michelle O’Byrne to hire the staff needed to operate the facility as soon as possible.

Mr Morris MP, said the x-ray facility at the New Norfolk District Hospital was idle due to a lack of staffing, and it should be re-opened as soon as possible to assist the residents of the Derwent Valley and Central Highlands who were experiencing extreme difficulties in attending x-ray appointments in Hobart. “The x-ray facility at the New Norfolk District Hospital is already fully equipped, it has been operated by the private and public sectors over many years, and the people of the Derwent Valley and the Central Highlands want it re-opened immediately,” said Mr Morris.

“Local residents, including those at the Corumbene Nursing Home and the New Norfolk District Hospital itself, currently face a difficult trip to Hobart for x-ray services, which often results in significant delays in access to this vital medical service. After receiving 1032 signatures on this petition in just one week it is obvious that the people of the Derwent Valley and Central Highlands want the fully equipped X-Ray facility at the New Norfolk District Hospital re-opened, and the Greens are calling on Health Minister O’Byrne to heed their call, and to hire new staff and re-open the facility as soon as possible,” Mr Morris said.

Internet turns up another gem

HERE'S another view of New Norfolk recently up for sale on eBay in the form of an antique postcard. Selling for $13.50, this is a less common westerly view from the New Norfolk Bridge, probably dating to the early 1900s.

Lachlan quarry concerns

LACHLAN residents will hold a public meeting tomorrow night (Tuesday) to discuss their concerns about a proposal to re-open a quarry at 240 Lachlan Rd, near the junction with Ringwood Rd). The meeting will be held at 7pm at the Lachlan Hall. Information about the proposed development can be downloaded from

www.epa.tas.gov.au/index.aspx?base=25579

New Norfolk ready for judging

JUDGES from Keep Australia Beautiful will be in New Norfolk this week to assess the town following its selection to represent Tasmania in the national Tidy Towns Award. The national judge will be accompanied by two state adjudicators.

The New Norfolk Tidy Towns Committee has had a busy few day preparing for the visit of the national judge, which comes barely a week after the town's win in the state awards. Committee members, local volunteers and several councillors have contributed to the effort this week.

• A tribute to New Norfolk's Tidy Towns success can be read at the Think-Tasmania blog here.

Styx road query

GREENS MHA Tim Morris has queried why Forestry Tasmania was carrying out new road construction work in the Styx Valley when the ink had barely dried on an agreement to preserve high-conservation value forests in the region. Mr Morris called on Forestry Minister Bryan Green to explain the purpose of the roadworks.   

"Forestry Tasmania are currently advertising that there will be interruptions to traffic between Mueller Rd and the South Styx Bridge for approximately two months, and the only forest being logged in this area is high-conservation value (HCV), raising fears that new roadworks are being driven into, or are facilitating the logging of, HCV forest only weeks after the signing of forestry roundtable principles which agree to protect HCV forests as a priority," Mr Morris said.

“Minister Bryan Green needs to reveal whether Forestry Tasmania are upgrading existing roads or driving a new road into the Styx Valley to access and clearfell HCV forests, and if so he needs to order Forestry Tasmania to cease this destructive and undermining activity until the future direction of the industry is decided,” said Mr Morris.

“The Minister was unable to answer when asked about this in Parliament today, and I will continue question him about these roadworks until he reveals the truth. Now is not the time to be driving new roads into pristine forest areas, or to be carrying out major upgrades of existing roads that only access HCV forest areas.”

Ambulance staffing under fire

COUNTRY ambulance stations were being left unattended to prop up city services, State Opposition health spokesman Jeremy Rockliff said last week. Mr Rockliff said the Liberal Party had highlighted ambulance staffing shortages two months ago and this had now been reiterated by by health unions. "HACSU claims that there is not enough staff to meet demand across the state, stations are left unattended and on-call paramedics are taking ambulances home in case of emergency call-outs.  These concerns match those raised consistently by the Liberals," Mr Rockliff said.

"In September, I pointed out these problems to the Minister in Parliament. In response, the Minister said claims that Ambulance Tasmania was poorly staffed was 'simply not correct'," he said. "What is the Minister’s response now?

"Just recently, the Liberals have heard of further problems, with ambulance crews from rural branch stations, including Huonville, New Norfolk, Kingston, Sorell and Bridgewater, regularly being brought in to make up for shortfalls in Hobart. This has the effect of delaying response times across all areas, and puts people living in regional areas at real risk."

History sells cheaply

THIS interesting photo of New Norfolk in 1903 sold for US $6.57 on the action website eBay recently.  The image was attributed James Davis, an employee of Benjamin Kilburn (1827-1909), a famed American photographer and stereoscopic view publisher.

This view looks across from farmland that is now Sharland Avenue, to the area now occupied by Fairview and Norfolk North.

Popular in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, stereoscopic photography created a 3-D illusion by placing two almost identical photos side-by-side, to be studied through special glasses or viewers.

Local nominee in citizenship awards

YOUTH advocate Alexander Moores, 21, of Malbina, is one of four finalists in the Tasmanian Young Australian of the Year Award for 2011. The Tasmanian Australian of the Year, Senior Australian of the Year, Young Australian of the Year and Local Hero Awards will be announced in Hobart this Wednesday, November 17.

The Tasmanian award winners will join recipients from all other states and territories as finalists for the national awards, which will be held on January 25, 2011, in Canberra. More information on the Australian of the Year Awards is at www.australianoftheyear.org.au

A man to remember

IN a corner of the garden near the entrance to New Norfolk Primary School is a small memorial to Walter Brown - possibly our town's bravest man. Awarded the Victoria Cross during World War I, he served again during World War II and was last seen striding towards the Japanese invaders at the fall of Singapore. He is worthy of remembrance today, on the 11th day of the 11th month.

The photo at left is from the Australian War Memorial collection (image number A02600) and the following text is from the Australian Dictionary of Biography, online edition.


BROWN, WALTER ERNEST (1885-1942), soldier, grocer, brass-finisher and water-bailiff, was born on 3 July 1885 at New Norfolk, Tasmania, son of Sidney Francis Brown, miller, and his wife Agnes Mary, née Carney. He was brought up at New Norfolk and on leaving school worked as a grocer in Hobart until 1911 and at Petersham, New South Wales, until World War I.

On 26 July 1915 Brown enlisted in the Australian Imperial Force as an infantryman, then hoping to see action more quickly transferred to the light horse. He embarked for Egypt in October and joined the 1st Light Horse Regiment on 14 January 1916; he later transferred to the Imperial Camel Corps. In July, having determined to reach the infantry in France, he contrived (on a plea of having lost his false teeth) to be sent to Cairo where he obtained a transfer to the 20th Battalion reinforcements.

He sailed for France in October and after serving for a month with the 55th Battalion and for six months with the 1st and 2nd Australian Field Butcheries, joined the 20th Battalion at St Omer in July 1917. In September and October he fought at Passchendaele and was awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal for attending wounded under heavy fire, and later, after his sergeant had been disabled, taking charge of the section, giving "a fine example of courage and leadership". He was promoted lance corporal on 19 October and was wounded in November.

Early in 1918 the 20th Battalion fought at Morlancourt and then moved into the Villers-Bretonneux sector; Brown was promoted corporal on 7 April. On 6 July he was with an advance party which took over some newly captured trenches near Accroche Wood and, on being told that a sniper's post was causing trouble, he located the spot, picked up two Mills bombs and ran towards it under fire. His first bomb fell short, but on reaching the post he knocked one German down with his fist and threatened the others with his remaining grenade; when they surrendered, Brown ordered them back to the Australian lines. He had captured thirteen men, including one officer. He was awarded the Victoria Cross.

He remained on the Somme until the Armistice and was wounded in action in August and promoted sergeant on 13 September. Brown was discharged from the A.I.F. in February 1920. In 1920-30 he worked in Sydney as a brass-finisher and in 1931-40 at Leeton as a water-bailiff with the New South Wales Water Conservation and Irrigation Commission. He married Maude Dillon, an Irishwoman, in Christ Church, Bexley, on 4 June 1932.

In June 1940, by giving his age as 40 instead of 54, Brown enlisted in the 2nd A.I.F. His real age and record were soon discovered, and he was promoted lance sergeant and posted to the 2/15th Field Regiment, but he reverted to gunner at his own request. The regiment, part of the ill-fated 8th Division, reached Malaya in August 1941.

Brown was last seen on 14 February 1942, the night before the Allied surrender at Singapore. Picking up some grenades he said to his comrades, "No surrender for me", and walked towards the enemy lines. He was presumed to have died while trying to escape on 28 February. He was survived by his wife, a son and a daughter.

Brown was regarded by those who served with him as "a born soldier, quiet, friendly and loyal beyond measure". His portrait by John Longstaff is in the Australian War Memorial collection.

Author: K. R. White

New Norfolk wins Tidy Towns title

NEW Norfolk is in the running to be named Australia's tidiest town after winning the 2010 Tasmanian Tidy Towns Award on Friday. Making the announcement at the Keep Australia Beautiful awards lunch at Richmond, judge Barrie Muir said New Norfolk had been recognised as a "valued and sustainable community town.”

“New Norfolk prides itself on providing a caring and attractive environment for its residents and visitors,” Mr Muir said. “It has a very strong Tidy Towns Committee that enjoys a positive relationship with the Derwent Valley Council.  Importantly, the [chairman] has been extremely active in involving community groups in the committee’s activities, which has produced encouraging results. Also worthy of note is the town’s relationship with Norske Skog Boyer which has been very beneficial.”

New Norfolk and other Derwent Valley communities have previously won Tidy Town category awards but this is the first time the municipality has won the state prize. Judging for the national award is expected to be undertaken shortly.

The Derwent Valley Council's Tidy Towns Committee will receive a perpetual trophy and $2000 in recognition of the state title. The award is a welcome boost for the town, already bringing welcome positive media attention, including a page in today's issue of the Mercury. Its online version can be accessed here.

 

The Tasmanian Tidy Towns program is run by the Keep Australia Beautiful Tasmania Council, with support from the State Government and the Packaging Stewardship Forum. In recent years Tidy Towns has developed from simply an anti-litter program to one that touches on every aspect of community life, both environmental and social, with the over-riding emphasis on sustainability.

Molesworth rowers do us proud

TWO Molesworth-based althetes have won silver medals at the world rowing championships being contested in New Zealand. New Norfolk Rowing Club members Kate Hornsey and Anthony Edwards both finished second in their respective events on Lake Karapiro.

Hornsey won her medal on Friday in the women's four A final and Edwards won his in the lightweight men's four A final yesterday. The Mercury has more on Kate's race here and Anthony's here.

A MELBOURNE Cup Day fashion parade at New Norfolk on Tuesday raised $86 towards a community garden at St Matthews Church. Organiser Nicole McKenzie said it was a pleasant surprise to have the attendance of Dick Adams MHR and his local staff Craig Farrell and Jess Dallas.

"It was really encouraging  to see such influential and respected people take time out of their busy schedules to come and show their support, we would like to extend our sincere thanks," Nicole said. "We would also like to wholeheartedly thank the Derwent Valley Council for their generous grant of $500 which will enable us to kick-start the project with the purchase of some raised garden beds; we were over the moon to see that our council is so supportive of small community projects."

Mini-Hydro station at Ellendale

PREMIER David Bartlett today officially opened the latest addition to Tasmania’s renewable energy sources - the Platypus Mini-Hydro Power Station at Ellendale. The station not only generates renewable energy for the township, but the developer plans to open it as a local tourist attraction. “This is a fantastic example of innovative thinking, and a truly sustainable project the local community can be proud of,” Mr Bartlett said.

The station was designed and built by former Hydro engineer Nigel Tomlin - an Ellendale farmer whose property borders the Jones River. The turbine and generator are housed in a small stone cottage, and water is fed along a 500-metre pipeline. Building the station at the head of a stream removes the need for a dam and large scale equipment.

In winter, the plant will supply totally renewable energy to most of the town, and save 75-tonnes of carbon emissions, compared to conventional coal-fired power, Mr Bartlett said. “This development has been a dream of Nigel Tomlin’s for 22 years,” Mr Bartlett said.“Encouragingly, Nigel believes there are hundreds of sites in Tasmania which are suitable for small-scale hydro generation. And it’s just as important to see innovative projects like this one in small townships such as Ellendale, as it is in the larger cities and towns,” he said.

Hollywood in the Derwent Valley

SCENES for the new movie The Hunter have been shot in the Derwent Valley this week. Locations at Maydena and the nearby Florentine Valley were filmed early in the week, before production shifted to Mt Wellington, where lead actor Willem Dafoe appeared in the swirling snow. Also in the movie are New Zealand actor Sam Neill and female lead Frances O'Connor. The psychological thriller will tell the story of a hunt for the Tasmanian tiger. The ABC has more here as does the Mercury newspaper here.

Youth group wins grant

A GRANT of $6580 has been allocated to the Derwent Valley Youth Future Action Team (D'FAT) by the Tasmanian Community Fund. A record number of organisations has received grants in the latest funding round, announced yesterday.

In its latest grant round, the TCF Board awarded $2.69 million to 138 projects throughout the state. The number of projects was the most in a single grant round of applications, reinforcing the board’s policy of encouraging smaller organisations to apply for grants (up to $10,000).  A large number of approved grants in this round were in that category.

D'FAT - a Special Committee of the Derwent Valley Council, was awarded $6,580 for the enhancing of an unspecified recreational reserve.

Lyell Highway crash

A MAN is in hospital in Hobart following a collision between a truck and a motorhome near Windsor's Corner this afternoon. Police, fire, ambulance and State Emergency Service crews responded to the crash which occured on the Lyell Highway between Hayes and Lawitta, near New Norfolk.

Sergeant Andrew O'Dwyer said the collision was between a Fiat/Winnebago motor home and an unladen B-Double truck. The Lyell Highway was closed for several hours and traffic was diverted via alternative routes.

The Mercury newspaper has a photo of the motorhome here.

Maydena accolades

NEWS of recent accolades for the Maydena Railtrack Rider was received at last night's meeting of the Maydena Community Association. President Lynne Graham said she had been advised that the Railtrack Rider - a tourist attraction created by the community association - had been highly commended in the Heart Foundation's Local Government Award, and had been a semi-finalist in the volunteering section of the Community Achievement Awards. The association was also acknowledged in the business enterprise category of the Community Achievement Awards.

Garden club's global outlook

A TALK on the Eden Project - the world's biggest greenhouse - will be given by guest speaker Colin Jones at this month's meeting of the Derwent Valley Garden Club. The Eden Project (pictured) is located in a reclaimed china claypit in Cornwall, England.

The meeting will be held at 7.30pm this Thursday (November 4) at the Derwent Valley Community House, Willow Court, New Norfolk. New members welcome. The club is also making final preparations for its annual flower show, to be held in the New Norfolk War Memorial Hall, Circle St, on November 13-14.

Fashion parade for garden funds

A MELBOURNE Cup Day fashion parade and afternoon tea this Tuesday will aid the establishment of a community garden at St Matthew's Anglican Church. The event will be held from 2-3.30pm in the St Matthew's Hall, Bathurst St, New Norfolk. Entry will be by donation and the proceeds will go towards setting up the garden.

Petition on x-ray service

A PETITION launched this week by Tasmanian Greens MHA Tim Morris calls on the State Government to fund, re-establish and operate the x-ray service at the New Norfolk District Hospital. Mr Morris said re-opening of the x-ray service at New Norfolk would greatly assist people in the area, who currently need to travel long distances to access this basic medical service.

"This is particularly important for the frail and aged in our community, including New Norfolk District Hospital patients and Corumbene Nursing Home residents, for whom at present, an x-ray appointment is extremely difficult to attend, or requires the use of an ambulance and often results in significant delays in being able to access this vital medical service," Mr Morris said.

"There is a fully equipped x-ray facility at the New Norfolk District Hospital that only requires staffing and which has been previously operated by both the public and private sectors over many years. The service was well utilised in the past and will be again, taking considerable pressure off GPs, relatives, carers as well as the Tasmanian Ambulance Service."

Mr Morris has raised the matter in State Parliament on several occasions and has received a generally sympathetic hearing from Health Minister Michelle O'Byrne. The petition, once completed, will be tabled in Parliament.

Lady Jane Franklin returns

THE life of colonial first lady and sometime New Norfolk resident Jane Franklin will be explored in a fascinating performance touring the state this month. Presented by the musical ensemble Silkweed, Jane Franklin: An Examined Life is a multi-media performance based on the life of Lady Jane Franklin, who as the wife of an early governor of Tasmania contributed much to the development of the arts, education and exploration in the early colony.

Lady Franklin is also particularly pertinent to the Derwent Valley as it was she who planted the willow tree from which Willow Court took its name and is also reputed to have planted a pear tree at the Bush Inn.  As the governor's wife, Lady Franklin spent time at the governor's retreat at Turriff Lodge, New Norfolk. Sir John and Lady Franklin were behind a proposed university at New Norfolk but this did not progress beyond the laying of a foundation stone. Opponents of the proposal uprooted the foundation stone and hurled it over the Turriff Lodge cliff and into the Derwent below.

Silkweed's performance melds original music, voice, drama and visual storytelling to capture the audience's imagination. The production is touring the state and will be in New Norfolk this weekend for a 2pm performance at the War Memorial Hall, Circle St, this Sunday only. 

Tickets cost $15 for adults and $5 for children. For more information contact Gail Woodford on 6261 4850 or email gailwoodford@yahoo.com.au

Cycle challenge for charity

THE Rotary Club of Claremont and the Hobart Branch of Make-A-Wish Australia will stage the Cycle Challenge 2010 at New Norfolk on October 31. Open to everyone aged 13 and above, there will be three circuits, all starting and ending at Kensington Park, New Norfolk. The "short circuit" will be a 38km ride from New Norfolk to Bushy Park and back, via Rosegarland. The 76km "medium circuit" is two laps of the short route, while the 106km "long circuit" is from New Norfolk to Hamilton and return via Ellendale.

Riders in all events are asked to be at Kensington Park by 8.30am. The short and medium events start at 10am and the long event will set off earlier at 9.30. Entry costs $30 per person and riders are encouraged to seek sponsorship per kilometre or for the whole trip. Registration details and more information can be found at http://www.claremontrotary.org.au/ or by calling Jan on 6249 7060 or Anne on 6244 1948.

Literacy co-ordinator for New Norfolk

APPLICATIONS for 13 regional literacy co-ordinators closed yesterday. Announced earlier this month by Education and Skills Minister Lin Thorp, the scheme aims to extend an existing network of eight literacy co-ordinators to regional areas where there is little or no adult literacy help. The successful applicants will be appointed to positions at New Norfolk, Bridgewater (2), George Town, Glenorchy, Hobart, Launceston (2), Scottsdale, Smithton, Sorell, St Helens and Queenstown.

“This will help adults from all walks of life improve their literacy skills and open up more opportunities for them," Ms Thorp said. "Coordinators will work with a team of volunteers to help people access support and programs to build adult literacy skills in communities and workplaces."

Short-term shop pops up

A SHOP selling women's fashion items has opened this week in High St, New Norfolk. Located in a recently-renovated shop between The Roost and the Riteway Supermarket, the short-term clearance outlet is believed to be operated by Miller's Fashion Club.

National award for Derwent project

THE Derwent Estuary Program has won a national prize for its outstanding achievement and excellence in river management. Environment Minister David O’Byrne today said the globally recognised National Riverprize was a tribute to the dedication and co-operation of the Derwent Estuary Program partners, which includes the Derwent Valley Council and Norske Skog Boyer.

“Their co-operative efforts have significantly improved the health of the Derwent and their stewardship will ensure this vital restoration continues,” Mr O’Byrne said. “I congratulate the DEP for achieving this wonderful and well-deserved honour," he said.

“This is the third time it has been short-listed for this important and celebrated prize and it’s an absolute credit to the DEP’s work on reducing water pollution, conserving habitats and species, monitoring river health and promoting greater use and enjoyment of the foreshore.”

Mr O'Byrne said more than $100 million had been invested in environmental projects since the DEP was established in 1999. “The Derwent is showing signs of recovery. During the past five years, there has been an 80 per cent reduction in organic inputs, an estimated 50 per cent reduction in heavy metals, and 30 per cent reduction in sewage-derived nutrients in the estuary, as well as improvements in stormwater treatment.”

DEP Director Christine Coughanowr was in Perth, Western Australia to receive the $200,000 prize at the International Riversymposium last week. Ms Coughanowr said it was a huge thrill for the DEP to join the “big league” of past project winners which have developed major waterway projects all over Australia including the Murray and Lake Macquarie. “This is the first time the prize has been awarded to Tasmania and it really puts us up there among the leaders of river management,” Ms Coughanowr said.

The other partners in the Derwent Estuary Program are the Brighton, Clarence, Derwent Valley, Glenorchy, Hobart and Kingborough councils, the Tasmanian Government, Southern Water, Nyrstar Hobart, Tasmanian Ports Corporation and Hydro Tasmania. More information about the Derwent Estuary Program can be found at www.derwentestuary.org.au.

TV spotlight on Lachlan

THE Derwent Valley will feature in this week's Better Homes and Gardens "Eye on Oz" special on Southern Cross Television at 7.30om on Friday. Presenter and chef Karen Martini will create the freshest spring salad ever, using produce straight from the farm at The Agrarian Kitchen, the famed “paddock to plate” cooking
school at Lachlan.

Community grants closing Friday

APPLICATIONS for funding under the Derwent Valley Council community grants program close this Friday, October 15. Non-profit, sporting and community groups in the municipality are eligible to apply for assistance in cash and kind under this scheme. Preference is given to applications with broad community benefit in the range of $200 to $500. More information is available on the council website here.

Praise for tree-planting

www.stornoway.com.au

CLIMATE-CHANGE minister Nick McKim has congratulated Greening Australia and the University of Tasmania on the start of a project to plant more than 30,000 trees in the Upper Derwent Valley with the aim of restoring dry landscapes and conserving biodiversity. Titled "Biodiverse carbon for landscape restoration: The establishment of a permanent research site in the Derwent Catchment, the project is being is being funded by the Tasmanian Government and the Australian Research Council.

>Mr McKim said the State Government would provide $540,000 over five years for the establishment of permanent "biodiverse carbon restoration research sites" at Hamilton and Bothwell. “This project provides an opportunity for Tasmania to lead the development of a major climate change adaptation and mitigation solution for Australia,” Mr McKim said. “Climate change projections show that the agricultural landscape in Tasmania’s midlands will become warmer and drier."

“To help prepare for changes in conditions, the project team has this week started planting genetic strains of locally sourced native Tasmanian species that have an ability to survive and grow in low rainfall regions. The reforestation of this private land will build resilience into the landscape to allow for the movement of species of plants and animals that is anticipated with climate change,” he said.

Mr McKim said the project had the potential to improve agricultural productivity and property values by restoring degraded landscapes. “It will also highlight opportunities to develop new income stream models for landholders in the carbon market, as well as new models for securing private land conservation and reforestation through forestry right covenants for biosequestration. The information from the project will be used by land owners, land managers and government in planning for future resource management and policy.”

The project is also supported by a number of Tasmanian businesses offsetting their carbon emissions including Pennicott Wilderness Journeys, Stornoway, and Targa Tasmania.

Glenora vineyard remains in family hands

THE original Meadowbank vineyard at Glenora will remain in the hands of the Ellis family following the sale of the newer estate in the Coal River Valley, ABC News reported today. Meadowbank's main vineyard and winery at Cambridge were to be sold to neighbouring Frogmore Creek Wines, but the company's Derwent Valley vineyard would continue to be owned and operated by its founder, Gerald Ellis, under a different label. Read more at the ABC News website here.

Sunday bus arrives after 10 years

GREENS MHA Tim Morris has welcomed increased bus services in the Derwent Valley, with the reintroduced Sunday services between New Norfolk and Hobart starting yesterday. “After more than 10 years of work and lobbying I am very pleased to at last see that New Norfolk and Hobart will be connected by public transport seven days a week, and as a bonus there will be increased weekday services and a doubling of Saturday services,” Mr Morris said.

“Now it will be convenient for Hobart residents to catch a bus to New Norfolk to visit friends or to enjoy the many recreational opportunities that exist in and around New Norfolk. For New Norfolk residents who work in, or simply wish to access Hobart on weekends they will now have a service seven days a week including until 9pm on most nights,” Mr Morris said. “This will also provide a significant boost to local small businesses, as both locals and visitors will have increased flexibility in their transport options,” he said.

Mr Morris said seed funding from the State Government would underwrite the new public transport services for a year, after which those that had become commercially viable would continue. “The Greens have every confidence that most or all of these trial services will remain in place beyond the period of the seed funding after having watched the significant increase in patronage over the past 20 months that O’Driscoll Coaches have operated the Derwent Valley Link bus service,” Mr Morris said.

“Peter O’Driscoll also deserves congratulations for being such a progressive service operator and one prepared to take advantage of the government incentive so quickly after it was announced in this year’s Budget.”

Sunday bus service to be reintroduced

DERWENT Valley bus services would be increased on a 12-month trial basis, Sustainable Transport and Alternative Energy Minister Nick McKim said yesterday. Mr McKim announced "funding agreements" that would trial new services to the Huon and Derwent Valleys, the Tasman Peninsula and East Coast.

“The trials will be for 12 months and are an important step in improving bus services for all Tasmanians,” Mr McKim said. “After community consultation, and market research, operators have identified routes and times where they believe there is significant unmet demand.  “For example, O’Driscoll Coaches will be introducing new Sunday services, additional Saturday services and extra weekday evening services operating between the Derwent Valley and Hobart."

Mr McKim said State Government seed funding would provide sufficient time during which passenger numbers could grow to support ongoing operations. “Expanding services into unproven markets is not without risk. The long-term viability of these services will depend on the individual operator’s professionalism, the quality of service delivered and community support. Passenger numbers are the key and the long term future of these services really is in the hands of bus patrons. I would now strongly encourage these communities to support their local operator and the environment by making use of the new services.”

Mr McKim said other new services would be announced as more funding agreements were reached.

For full details of the new Derwent Valley services visit the O'Driscoll Coaches Derwent Valley Link website here.