Ouse fire updates

A VEGETATION fire covering about three hectares on Lake Repulse Rd, Ouse, is still being patrolled at regular intervals by Tasmania Fire Service crews.

Some 395 hectares of grassland and light bush land was burnt out by a fast moving fire on Sunday, between Lanes Tier Rd and Victoria Valley Rd near Ouse. There is now no fire activity in the area and TFS crews have consolidated control lines throughout Monday and Tuesday.

Firefighters will patrol the area over the next week. A small amount of smoke may be seen in the area and people shouldn’t be alarmed by this. Anyone with concerns about fire activity in the area should report it by calling triple zero (000).

New Norfolk fire

QUICK action by the New Norfolk Fire Brigade has doused a grass fire near the Valley Childrens Centre in New Norfolk tonight. The incident in Ring Rd was reported at about 10.10pm and was extinquished shortly after. The fire was on the site of Ward 1, the former Royal Derwent Hospital building that was destroyed in an arson attack late last year.

Karanja tragedy

ABC News has a report of today's fatality on Gordon River Rd at Karanja. The report can be read here.

Condolences to all involved.

FRIDAY UPDATE: Counsellors on duty, the Mercury reports here.

Bushfire now contained

Tasmania Fire Service
Bushfire Advice Message

Meadowbank Rd, Meadowbank

Current from: 29/2/2012 5:36PM until: 1/3/2012 1PM or further notice

There is a large bushfire at Meadowbank Rd, Meadowbank.

The fire danger rating in this area overnight is forecast to be low-moderate. Fire under these conditions can be controlled .

There is no immediate threat to communities. This bushfire is currently within established containment lines.

There may be embers, smoke and ash falling along Rockmount Rd and Ellendale Rd, from Gordon River Road north to Jones River Rd. 

Reported road closures:  Meadowbank Rd  

What to do:

• Review your bushfire plan now; well constructed and prepared homes are defendable in these conditions.
  Unless you are a resident or have urgent business, consider avoiding travel in this area.
• Stay informed in case conditions change.
• Monitor ABC Local Radio and www.fire.tas.gov.au for further information.

Current Bushfire Summary Information:
Firefighting crews have spent Wednesday backburning and consolidating control lines on the western side of the fire. The far northern, eastern and southern flanks are well contained with a small amount of fire activity backing down Glenora Sugarloaf.

Crews have utilised a helicopter to water bomb and assist with back burning operations and provide aerial reconnaissance.

Many hotspots remain around the fire edge and within the burnt area particularly the western side. Fire crews are mopping up around assets and the fire edge in these areas. Smoke will continue to emanate from the fire and hang in the Derwent Valley until significant rain occurs.
 
An advice message remains in place for Rockmount Rd and Ellendale Rd area and residents are to remain vigilant in other areas. Residents who self-evacuated are free to return to the area.

Crews will return on Thursday to complete further work on control lines.

All roads except Meadowbank Road are open.

Ellendale/Fentonbury on alert

Tasmania Fire Service
Bushfire Watch & Act Message

MEADOWBANK RD, MEADOWBANK

Current from: 29/02/2012 10:47AM until: 29/02/2012 7PM or further notice

There is a large bushfire at Meadowbank Rd, Meadowbank.

The fire danger rating in this area is forecast to be low-moderate. Fire under these conditions can be controlled.

This fire may affect the residents along Rockmount Rd and along Ellendale Rd, from Gordon River Rd north to Jones River Rd over the next 2-8 hours.

This bushfire is currently not controlled.

There may be embers, smoke and ash falling in the area along along Rockmount Rd and along Ellendale Rd, from Gordon River Rd north to Jones River Rd.

Reported road closures: Meadowbank Rd

What to do:

• You need to start taking action now to protect you and your family.
• Check your bushfire plan now; well constructed and prepared homes are defendable in these conditions.
• If you don’t have a bushfire plan or your plan is to leave, prepare to leave for a safer place, such as a relative or friends place away from the area.
• Consider leaving the affected area if conditions worsen if the path is clear.
• Non-residents should stay away from the affected areas.
• Stay informed in case conditions change
• Monitor ABC Local Radio & http://www.fire.tas.gov.au/ for further instructions

Community Information:

• When reviewing or developing your bushfire plan, if your planning to stay, below is what a bushfire is like.
• As the fire approaches, it may become increasingly smoky and difficult to see and breathing may be uncomfortable.
• The closer the fire gets the hotter it will become and burning embers may be falling around you will be able to hear the fire roar.
• As the fire approaches your home, the radiant heat from the flames may become unbearable and you will need to shelter inside.
• Wear appropriate clothing to protect yourself, ie long pants, long sleeve shirt and sturdy boots.
• After the fire front has passed, extinguish any fire spots around your home, check gutters, roof space and under house.
• Remember, it will be very hot, smoky and windy outside, even after the fire has passed.

TFS Attending Resources:
5 x LIGHT TANKER
3 x HEAVY TANKER
1 x CAR
1 x UTILITY
4 x PERSONNEL CARRIER
1 x MECH SERVICE VAN
1 x ROTARY WING: MEDIUM

Junior day at Gretna

GRETNA Cricket Club's junior trophy day will be held on Saturday, March, 17, at the Gretna Oval. The Under 13s will play a Twenty20 match from 9am until noon, followed by an Under 15s game. There will be a barbecue and trophies will be presented. For more information contact junior development officer Wade Gleeson on 0429 704 677.

Twenty20 Super Bash - Pool B

OLD Beach 10 for 99 off 14 overs (14 extras) defeated Gretna II 10 for 86 off 18.3 overs (11 extras).
Gretna batting: Daniel Taylor 22 runs (three 4s, one 6), Ben Triffett 16 (one 4), Ben Shaw 13 (one 4). Gretna bowling: Darren Lennox 3 for 21 off four overs, Todd Jarvis 2 for 5 off two overs, Brad Moles 2 for 16 off four overs, Larry Menzie 2 for 23 off 3.4 overs. There was one runout.  

Southern cricket - round 18

WITH the finals just a week away and and having to win to hold second spot on the 4th Grade ladder, Bushy Park defeated DOSA in a team effort. Winning the toss and sending DOSA into bat, Bushy Park bowled them out for 202 off 44 overs (30 extras). In reply Bushy lost just the two wickets chasing down the total, finishing 2 for 203 off 36 overs (15 extras). Bushy Park batting: Mitch Crosswell 71, Damian Madden 58 not out, Shaun Fenton 55, Terrence Pritchard 4no. Bushy Park bowling: Nick Fenton took 4 for 48 off 10 overs, M. Frichol 2 for 18 off 10 overs (two maidens), Terrence Pritchard 1 for 53 off 10 overs (one maiden). There were three runouts.

In the other 4th Grade match, Gretna II 10 for 128 off 42.4 overs (32 extras) was defeated by McRobies Gully 4 for 130 off 29.5 overs (22 extras). Gretna batting: Josh Bomford 31 runs (three 4s), Adam Browning 24 (one 4), Larry Menzie 23. Gretna bowling: Cody Eyles 3 for 28 off four overs, Brad Moles 1 for 21 off four overs (one maiden).

Molesworth I moved to third spot on the 2nd Grade ladder after a convincing win over New Norfolk at Tynwald Park on Saturday. Captain Mark Reggett made 80, sharing a 122 run partnership with fellow opener Brad Coppleman who made 28. Ben Eyles 45 not out and Ricky Martin 15no chased down the remaining runs of the New Norfolk total of 10 for 180 off 47.4 overs (22 extras), steering Molesworth to victory. Molesworth finished on 2 for 185 off 30.2 overs (13 extras). New Norfolk batting: Stewart Rice 67, Leigh Berry 33, Ashley Morgan 23, Rohan Heron 11. Molesworth bowling: M. Siely 3 for 50 off eight overs, Mark Reggett 2 for 5 off four overs (one maiden), Ricky Martin 2 for 22 off 10 overs (two maidens), Tim Nichols 2 for 25 off 10 overs (two maidens), Chris Slater 1 for 15 off 4.4 overs (two maidens). New Norfolk bowling: Jamie Maddox 1 for 31 off eight overs, Ashley Morgan 1 for 33 off three overs.

In the other 2nd Grade match Rokeby Wanderers defeated Gretna I at Gretna. The home team won the toss and elected to bat hitting up a good score of 10 for 249 off 48 overs (22 extras). In reply Rokeby chased down the runs making 8 for 250 off 47.5 overs (20 extras). Gretna batting: Corey Ransley 69 (seven 4s, four 6s), Mathew Burns 53 (two 4s, one 6) , captain Ben Rainbird 26 (two 4s, one 6), Cameron Emery 21 (four 4s), Bruce Emery 16 (two 4s), Rhys Browning 15, Tim Lowe 10 (one 4). Gretna bowling: Cameron Emery 3 for 39 off 7.5 overs, Corey Ransley 2 for 40 off nine overs (one maiden), Mathew Burns 2 for 49 off nine overs, Bruce Emery 1 for 40 off nine overs (one maiden).
 
5th Grade: Molesworth II 10 for 93 off 32.1 overs (24 extras) was defeated by Lindisfarne 3 for 94 off 20.3 overs (26 extras). Molesworth batting: Paul Reed 23, T. Donaghy 20, B. Jarvis 10. Molesworth bowling: Brad Ransley 1 for 8 off three overs (one maiden), Cody Neads 1 for 8 off three overs, G. Maddox 1 for 16 off two overs.

SCA Ladders (Top five play off for finals) 
2nd Grade: Sorell 87pts 1.61%, Richmond/Cambridge 75pts 1.22%, Molesworth I 69pts 1.34%, Rokeby Wanderers 69pts 1.32%, New Norfolk 63pts 1.18%, Gretna I 45pts 0.93%, MacKillop Beltas 39pts 0.73%, Montagu Bay Sharks 36pts 0.82, Hobart 30pts 0.63%, Runnymede 27pts 0.67%.

4th Grade: Sandford 78pts 1.22%, Bushy Park 72pts 1.61%, McRobies Gully 69pts 1.12%, Knights 63pts 1.1%, Marquis Tigers 57pts 1.01%, Sorell 57pts 0.91%, DOSA 54pts 0.95%, Dynnyrne 39pts 0.82%, Claremont 27pts 0.47%, Gretna II 24pts 0.6%.

5th Grade: Old Beach 84pts 1.53%, St Aidans 72pts 0.95%, Montagu Bay Sharks 66pts 1.42%, MacKillop Beltas 66pts 1.26%, Lindisfarne 66pts 1.18%, Risdon Vale 63pts 1.23%, Campania 51pts 0.9%, Molesworth II 30pts 0.65%, Moonah 24pts 0.62%, Runnymede 18pts 0.48%.
 
Next matches - finals.
2nd Grade - Saturday, March 3: Richmond/Cambridge v Molesworth I at Richmond; Rokeby Wanders v New Norfolk at Tynwald Park.
4th Grade - Saturday, March 3: Bushy Park v McRobies Gully at Boyer Oval.

Youth league cricket - round 11

UNDER 13: Gretna Green 7 for 108 off 20 overs defeated South Hobart/Sandy Bay 5 for 91 off 20 overs at Gretna. Gretna Green batting: Josh Farrow 31 runs retired (four 4s, one 6), Jack Stevenson 22 retired (three 4s), Josh Hills 14 not out (two 4s), Reece Williams 6 (one 4), Ryan Browning 6 (one 4), Jacob Bowerman 4no, Jake Ransley 3, Dylan Downie 2, Jack Hills 1. Gretna bowling: Ryan Browning 2 for 4 off two overs, Josh Hills 1 for 5 off two overs, Jake ransley 1 for 10 off two overs.

Gretna Gold 6 for 124 off 20 overs defeated New Town 8 for 101 off 18 overs at Queens Walk. Gretna Gold batting: Nathan Eyles 43no (five 4s, three 6s), Luke Crosswell 20 retired (three 4s), Zac Crosswell 15no (two 4s, one 6), Ryan Emery 12no (one 4, one 6), Blake Eyles 7 (one 4), Adam Bartels 4 (one 4), Colby Monks 1, Hannah Mann 1. Gretna Gold bowling: Josh Eyles 3 for 20 off two overs, Adam Bartels 2 for 11 off three overs, Colby Monks 1 for 8 off two overs, Blake Eyles 1 for 9 off two overs, Hannah Mann 1 for 25 off three overs.

UNDER 15: Gretna had the bye.

Next matches (finals) this Sunday:
Under 13, 9am: Gretna Green v Dodges Ferry at Cornelian Bay; Gretna Gold v Clarence White at Gretna.
Under 15, 1pm: Gretna v Wellington at Gretna

Youth League Ladders - season's end
Under 13 West
Gretna Green
North Hobart
Glenorchy
Gretna Gold
Kingborough
Tasmania University
New Town
Molesworth
New Norfolk
St Anne's Crows
South Hobart/Sandy Bay
St Anne/s Cougars

Under 13 East
Dodges Ferry
Lindisfarne
Clarence Maroon
Clarence White
Sorell
Lindisfarne Blues
Lindisfarne Lightning
Old Beach

Under 15
Richmond/Cambridge
Kingborough
Gretna
Wellington
Old Beach
Sorell
Clarence
Tasmania University
North Hobart

Goodwin talk at Neighbourhood Watch

AN interesting talk on intergenerational crime will be given by Vanessa Goodwin MLC at tonight's (Tuesday) meeting of the New Norfolk Neighbourhood Watch. A lawyer and criminologist, Dr Goodwin is the State Opposition spokeswoman for justice and corrections.

The meeting will be at 7pm in the office of Craig Farrell MLC in the Millingtons Building (former Parkside Clinic), 60 High St, New Norfolk. All welcome.

Night of the hunter

THE next meeting of the Derwent Valley Film Society will be at 7.30pm on Saturday, March 17, at St Matthew's Church Hall in Bathurst St, New Norfolk. At this meeting will be screened the 1955 film The Night of the Hunter.

More information is available at www.derwentvalleyfilmsociety.org.au

Bushfire's bitter harvest

MUCH of the damage from the weekend's bushfire was focussed on the Ellis family's Meadowbank Vineyard.

Read the Mercury's report on the bitter harvest here and the ABC's report here.

TUESDAY UPDATES:
Mercury
ABC

Rebuilding after the fires

EIGHT firefighting vehicles remain on site at Meadowbank tonight, actively monitoring and patrolling the blaze that remains uncontrolled after more than two days. Despite a great easing in conditions today, the bushfire has covered more than 5050 hectares and caused immense damage to the Meadowbank Vineyard in particular. The latest Tasmania Fire Service advice appears at the end of this report.

OUSE: About 395 hectares of grassland was burnt out by a fast moving grass fire between Lanes Tier Rd and Victoria Valley Rd near Ouse yesterday. TFS crews have spent today consolidating containment lines around the fire edges. There may be some tussock grass flare-ups within the fire boundary and people living in the area should not be alarmed. Crews will return on Tuesday to complete further work. This fire is now contained but anyone with concerns about the fire activity in the area should report it by calling triple zero (000).

A three-hectare fire on Lake Repulse Rd was first reported at 11.50pm on Saturday and is being patrolled at regular intervals by TFS crews.

HALLS RD, STYX: After nearly a fortnight, heavy fuels continue to burn underground producing smoke but no risk to surrounding land. Forestry Tasmania fire crews and machinery are on site working to extinguish hot spots and patrolling for flare ups. This fire has covered 37 hectares.

Fire conditions eased in the Derwent Valley today with a change in weather. Forty-four crews from the TFS and Parks and Wildlife were on site during the day, working to contain and bring the fire under control.  Most activity for crews was on the western fire edge.

Hotspots still exist in the area and smoke will continue to linger in the Derwent Valley.  Due to varying wind conditions smoke may also occur across Hobart and the Huon Valley.

Emergency services, Aurora, Transend and contractors will have a heavy presence in the Meadowbank area for the next few days, particularly Gordon River Rd and the Lyell Highway.  Motorists are asked to be mindful when driving in these areas and may want to reconsider their route to avoid heavy vehicle traffic.

Aurora Energy today had 100 people in the area working to replace burnt poles in the Meadowbank, Westerway, Ouse, and Maydena areas. There were initially 16 poles to replace, but there may be more as Aurora crews gain access to closed areas.

Drivers are asked to be aware of wandering livestock due to burnt fences. Displaced wildlife including snakes may be encountered, seeking refuge in unexpected places.

Residents returning to their properties should be mindful of dangerous trees. The TFS has a contractor assessing damaged trees in the area.

The public is asked to remain vigilant, monitor the TFS website www.fire.tas.gov.au for fire alerts, and report any activity which is causing concern by calling 000.  Information on road closures can be found on the Tasmania Police website on www.police.tas.gov.au.


Tasmania Fire Service
Bushfire Advice Message

Meadowbank Rd, Meadowbank  

Current from: 27/02/2012 5:23PM until 28/02/2012 12PM or further notice

There is a large bushfire at Meadowbank Road, Meadowbank.

The fire danger rating in this area is forecast to be low-moderate.

Fire crews will actively monitor and patrol overnight.

This bushfire is currently not controlled. Significant smoke is likely to be visible in the area for several days extending to Hobart and the Huon Valley.

Reported road closures: Meadowbank Rd.  

Emergency services, Aurora, Transend and contractor vehicles will continue to have a heavy presence in the area of Meadowbank for the next few days. Please be mindful when driving in these areas.

What to do:

• Check and review your bushfire plan no
• Unless you are a resident or have urgent business, consider avoiding travel in this area
• Stay informed in case conditions change.
• Monitor www.fire.tas.gov.au for further information

Community Information:

• If there is any fire activity causing you concern, report it to the TFS by calling 000
• If you need any advice on preparing a Bush Fire Plan, visit www.fire.tas.gov.au under the section "Fire Safety and You"

Meadowbank bushfire update

Tasmania Fire Service
Bushfire Advice Message


MEADOWBANK ROAD, MEADOWBANK

Current from: 27/02/2012 01:10 PM until: 29/02/2012 06:10 PM or further notice

There is a large bushfire at Meadowbank Rd, Meadowbank.

The fire danger rating in this area is forecast to be low-moderate.

44 crews are currently on site, working to contain and bring the fire under control.

This bushfire is currently not controlled.

Smoke will continue to emanate from the fire and hang in the Derwent Valley .

Reported Road Closures: Meadowbank Rd

Visibilty may be affected when travelling on the Lyell Highway and other roads in the area due to smoke. Tasmania Police will be patrolling roads in the area.


If there is any fire activity causing you concern please report it by calling 000.


TFS Attending Resources:

3 x HEAVY TANKER
2 x LIGHT TANKER
3 x MEDIUM TANKER
1 x MECH SERVICE VAN
2 x PERSONNEL CARRIER

Helicopters helped fight the fire

Bushy Park Showground was the base for three firefighting helicopters

Fire emergency downgraded

AFTER burning out an area of about 2000 hectares, the status of the Meadowbank bushfire has tonight been downgraded by the Tasmania Fire Service. The TFS has issued a "Bushfire Advice Message" with effect until 7.40pm Tuesday.

After two days of high temperatures in the Derwent Valley, the fire danger rating for the next few days is forecast to be low to moderate. Some 24 fire crews have been deployed overnight to monitor the fire, focussing on asset protection along the Gordon River Rd between Karanja and Westerway.

This bushfire is not yet controlled and there may be embers, smoke and ash falling on Mt Lloyd, Lachlan, Moogara, Glenfern, Feilton, Hayes and Salmon Ponds.

Meadowbank Dam Rd remains closed as does Meadowbank Rd, Rockmount Rd, and Gordon River Rd between Westerway and Glenora.  

Visibilty may be affected when travelling on the Lyell Highway and other roads in the area due to smoke. Tasmania Police will be patrolling roads in the area.
The Tasmania Fire Service recommends:

• Check your bushfire plan now; well constructed and prepared homes are defendable in these conditions
• If you don’t have a bushfire plan or your plan is to leave, consider leaving the affected area for a relative or friends place if conditions worsen, only if the path is clear
• Unless you are a resident or have urgent business, consider avoiding travel in this area
• Stay informed in case conditions change
• Monitor www.fire.tas.gov.au for further information
• If there is any fire activity causing you concern, report it by calling 000.

Further media reports:

• The Mercury's 9.15pm update and photo gallery here
• ABC TV's 7pm news report and video here

Meadowbank fire 6pm update

Tasmania Fire Service
Bushfire Watch & Act Message

Meadowbank Rd, Meadowbank - current from 6.10pm, February 26, 2012, until further notice

There is a large bushfire at Meadowbank Rd, Meadowbank. The fire danger rating in this area is forecast to be high. Fire under these conditions can be difficult to control.

This fire may affect the communities of residents of Westerway, Karanja and Glenora within the next  hours.

This bushfire is currently not controlled. This bushfire is currently creating spot-fires up to 1km ahead. These spot fires may threaten your home earlier than the predicted main fire front.

There may be embers, smoke and ash falling on residents of Mt Lloyd, Lachlan, Moogara, Glenfern, Feilton, Hayes and Salmon Ponds.

Reported road closures: Meadowbank Dam Rd, Meadowbank Rd, Rockmount Rd, and Gordon River Rd between Westerway and Glenora.   

What to do:

• Activate your bushfire plan now
• If your home is well constructed, prepared and actively defended, it may provide shelter.
• If you don’t have a plan or your plan is to leave – leave now only if the path is clear.
• If you are away from home: Do not try to return to your home as the roads in this area could be highly dangerous.
• Non-residents should stay away from the affected areas.

Monitor ABC Local Radio and www.fire.tas.gov.au for further instructions

Community information:
Residents who are at home and defending their property must protect themselves from the effect of the fire by wearing the right clothing. Sturdy boots, long pants, long sleeved shirt, a P2 dust mask, eye protection and a broad brimmed hat are a minimum. On no account should synthetic material be worn.

Visibilty may be affected when travelling on the Lyell Highway and other roads in the area due to smoke. Tasmania Police will be patrolling roads in the area.

If there is any fire activity causing you concern  please report it by calling 000.


TFS resources in attendance:
10 x HEAVY TANKER
7 x LIGHT TANKER
15 x MEDIUM TANKER
 4 x PERSONNEL CARRIER
 1 x ROTARY WING: LIGHT

Latest updates - 5.30pm

Tasmania Fire Service
BUSHFIRE WATCH & ACT MESSAGE

MEADOWBANK ROAD, MEADOWBANK

Current from: 26/02/2012 05:10 PM until further notice

There is a large bushfire at Meadowbank Rd, Meadowbank.

The fire danger rating in this area is forecast to be high. Fire under these conditions can be difficult to control.

This fire may affect the communities of residents of Westerway, Karanja and Glenora within the next hour.

This bushfire is currently not controlled. This bushfire is currently creating spot-fires up to 1km ahead. These spot fires may threaten your home earlier than the predicted main fire front.

There may be embers, smoke and ash falling on residents of Mt Lloyd, Lachlan, Moogara, Glenfern, Feilton, Hayes and Salmon Ponds .

Reported Road Closures: Meadowbank Dam Rd, Meadowbank Rd, Rockmount Rd and Gordon River Rd from Westerway to Glenora.

What to do:
Activate your bushfire plan now
If your home is well constructed, prepared and actively defended, it may provide shelter.
If you don’t have a plan or your plan is to leave – leave now only if the path is clear.
If you are away from home: Do not try to return to your home as the roads in this area could be highly dangerous.
Non-residents should stay away from the affected areas.

Monitor ABC Local Radio and www.fire.tas.gov.au for further instructions

Community Information:

Residents who are at home and defending their property must protect themselves from the effect of the fire by wearing the right clothing. Sturdy boots, long pants, long sleeved shirt, a P2 dust mask, eye protection and a broad brimmed hat are a minimum. On no account should synthetic material be worn.

Visibilty may be affected when travelling on the Lyell Highway and other roads in the area due to smoke. Tasmania Police will be patrolling roads in the area.

If there is any fire activity causing you concern please report it to the TFS by calling 000.

Stay informed

BUSHFIRE updates via the New Norfolk News may be interrupted for the next few hours due to intermittent internet coverage.

Keep listening to ABC Local Radio and check for official updates from the Tasmania Fire Service at www.fire.tas.gov.au

Ember and smoke warning extended

Tasmania Fire Service

Bushfire Emergency Warning Message

Current from: 26/02/2012 1.20pm until further notice

There is a large bushfire at Meadowbank Rd, Meadowbank. The fire danger rating in this area is forecast to be severe. Fire under these conditions can be uncontrollable and unpredictable.

The fire is expected to put the residents of Karanja direct risk. This bushfire is currently not controlled. This bushfire is currently creating spot-fires up to 1km ahead.These spot fires may threaten your home earlier than the predicted main fire front.

There may be embers, smoke and ash falling on  residents of Mt Lloyd, Lachlan, Moogara, Glenfern, Feilton, Plenty, Hayes and Salmon Ponds.

Reported road closures: Meadowbank Dam Rd, Meadowbank Rd and Rockmount Rd  

What to do:

• Activate your bushfire plan now
• It is likely to be too late to leave the area. If your home is well constructed, prepared and actively defended, it may provide shelter.
• If you don’t have a plan or your plan is to leave – leave now, only if the path is clear.
• This may include a neighbouring property or other cleared area close by that is not at risk from fire.
• There is a nearby safer place at Bushy Park Oval or New Norfolk
• If you are away from home: Do not try to return to your home as the roads in this area could be highly dangerous.
• Non-residents should stay away from the affected areas.

Monitor ABC Local Radio and www.fire.tas.gov.au for further instructions

Bushy Park Pool closed

DUE to the extreme fire danger in the region, the Bushy Park Pool was closed to the public shortly after 1pm.

For anyone disrupted by the fire emergency there is a designated community safer place at the Bushy Park Showground.

1.30PM UPDATE: The buildings at the Bushy Park Showgrounds will be opened shortly to receive anyone displaced by the fire. First aid will be available.

Karanja at direct risk

Tasmania Fre Service

Bushfire Emergency warning

Current from:  26/02/2012 01:20 PM until further notice

There is a large bushfire at Meadowbank Rd, Meadowbank.

The fire danger rating in this area  is severe. Fire under these conditions can be uncontrollable and unpredictable .

The fire is expected to put the residents of Karanja at direct risk from the fire front within 5 minutes.

This bushfire is currently not controlled.

This bushfire is currently creating spot-fires up to 1km ahead. These spot fires may threaten your home earlier than the predicted main fire front.

There may be embers, smoke and ash falling on residents of Meadowbank Rd, Glenora residents and Karanja and Uxbridge.

Reported road closures: Meadowbank Dam Rd, Meadowbank Road and Rockmount Rd. 

What to do:

• Activate your bushfire plan now
• It is likely to be too late to leave the area. If your home is well constructed, prepared and actively defended, it may provide shelter
• If you don’t have a plan or your plan is to leave – leave now, only if the path is clear
• This may include a neighbouring property or other cleared area close by that is not at risk from fire
• There is a nearby safer place at Bushy Park Oval
• If you are away from home: Do not try to return to your home as the roads in this area could be highly dangerous
• Non-residents should stay away from the affected areas

Monitor ABC Local Radio and www.fire.tas.gov.au for further instructions

Warning to Glenora, Karanja, Uxbridge

Tasmania Fire Service
Bushfire Emergency Warning Message

Meadowbank Rd, Meadowbank - current from 12.39pm, February 26, 2012, until further notice

There is a  large bushfire at Meadowbank Rd, Meadowbank. The fire danger rating in this area  is severe. Fire under these conditions can be uncontrollable and unpredictable .

The fire is expected to put the area of Meadowbank Rd, Glenora residents, and Karanja and Uxbridge at direct risk from the fire front within 30 minutes.

This bushfire is currently not controlled. This bushfire is currently creating spot-fires up to 1km ahead. These spot fires may threaten your home earlier than the predicted main fire front.

There may be embers, smoke and ash falling on residents of Meadowbank Rd, Glenora residents, and Karanja and Uxbridge.

Reported road closures: Meadowbank Dam Rd, Meadowbank Rd and Rockmount Rd.  

What to do:

• Activate your bushfire plan now
• It is likely to be too late to leave the area. If your home is well constructed, prepared and actively defended, it may provide shelter
• If you don’t have a plan or your plan is to leave – leave now, only if the path is clear
• This may include a neighbouring property or other cleared area close by that is not at risk from fire
• There is a nearby safer place at Bushy Park Oval
• If you are away from home: Do not try to return to your home as the roads in this area could be highly dangerous
• Non-residents should stay away from the affected areas
• Monitor ABC Local Radio and www.fire.tas.gov.au for further instructions

Community Information:

• Residents who are at home and defending their property must protect themselves from the effect of the fire by wearing the right clothing. Sturdy boots, long pants, long sleeved shirt, a P2 dust mask, eye protection and a broad brimmed hat are a minimum. On no account should synthetic material be worn
• Visibilty may be affected when travelling on the Lyell Highway and other roads in the area due to smoke. Tasmania Police will be patrolling roads in the area
• If there is any fire activity causing you concern  please report it by calling 000.

Tasmania Fire Service resources in attendance:
4 x LIGHT TANKER
5 x HEAVY TANKER
2 x MEDIUM TANKER
1 x CAR
6 x PERSONNEL CARRIER
1 x ROTARY WING: MEDIUM
1 x ROTARY WING: LIGHT



Earlier statement regarding the fire
 There is a large bushfire at Meadowbank Road, MEADOWBANK of approximately 800ha burning to the southwest of the Meadowbank dam. Two spot fires that started earlier are now controlled. Overnight conditions have been calm so crews were able to establish containment lines to the south of the main fire and commence back-burning operations. Back-burning will continue today on the western flank of the fire to strengthen current containment lines. Sixteen units with about 50 personnel have been deployed to the fire along with heavy machinery and helicopters for water-bombing. The fire is burning in open grassland and light bush and there is no immediate risk to communities. However, hot conditions are expected later today with a fire danger rating of very high. The bushfire is currently not controlled. Fire under forecasted conditions may be difficult to control. Smoke may affect communities from Meadowbank to Hobart due to fire activity and back-burning operations. This smoke may be visible as far as the Huon Valley area. The fire has been investigated by Tasmanian Fire Service and the cause was found to be accidental. Reported road closures are: Rockmount Road, Meadowbank Dam Road and Meadowbank Road. Lyell Highway, Gordon River Road to Mount Field National Park and Ellendale Roads remain open. Tasmania Police will be patrolling the Lyell Highway between Hamilton and Gretna. The public are asked to remain vigilant and report any new fires or suspicious activity to 000. A Watch and Act Alert remains in place, and the communities of Ellendale, Meadowbank, Fentonbury, Westerway, Glenora, Bushy Park, National Park and Gretna have been urged to activate their bushfire plans. If your home is well constructed, prepared and actively defended, it may provide shelter. If you do not have a plan or your plan is to leave, prepare to leave for a safer place such as a friends or relatives place away from the fire. If you are away from home, don’t try to return to your home as the roads in this area could be highly dangerous. Non-residents should stay away from affected areas. There is a total fire ban across the state today. Monitor ABC Local Radio & TFS Website – www.fire.tas.gov.au for further instructions.

Meadowbank fire "catastrophic"

TODAY'S issue of the Sunday Tasmanian has full coverage of the bushfire burning at Meadowbank in the Derwent Valley, here.

• Fire front 1km wide and 3km deep
• Covering 280 hectares 
• Famed vineyard threatened
• Cars burnt out at ski club
• May have started near camping grounds

Today:

• Total fire ban in force statewide
• Meadowbank and surrounding areas (Glenora, Bushy Park, Gretna) remain on Watch and Act alert
• Fire weather warning - very high fire danger
• Weather forecasts:New Norfolk  Mt Field  Ouse
• Report all fires immediately by calling 000
• Stay away from Meadowbank - sightseers not wanted

Yesterday as it happened:

1. Halls Rd, Styx, existing vegetation fire first reported February 13, being patrolled
2. Ellendale Rd, Ellendale, vegetation fire reported 12.09pm, closed
3. Lower Swamp Rd, Lachlan, vegetation fire reported 2.32pm, closed 
4. Meadowbank Rd, Meadowbank, vegetation fire, reported 3.21pm, going
5. Bluff Rd, Broadmarsh, vegetation fire, reported 3.52pm, closed
6. Pelham Rd, Elderslie, vegetation fire, reported 4.18pm, closed
7. Gordon River Rd, Maydena, smoke investigation, reported 4.27pm, closed
8. Lyell Highway, Sorell Creek, smoke investigation, reported 4.37pm, closed   
9. The Avenue, New Norfolk, vegetation fire, reported 5.20pm, closed
10. Back River Rd, Magra, fire incident, reported 8.35pm, closed
11. Back River Rd, Magra, vegetation fire, reported 8.52pm, closed
12. Derwent Terrace, New Norfolk, vegetation fire, 23.08pm, closed
13. Lake Repulse Rd, Ouse, vegetation fire, reported 23.50pm, closed
14. Montagu St, New Norfolk, fire incident, reported 12.42am Sunday, closed

Meadowbank warning renewed

Bushfire Watch & Act Message - Meadowbank Rd, Meadowbank

Current from: 8.25pm 25/02/2012 until 8.57pm 27/02/2012 or further notice

There is a  large bushfire at Meadowbank Rd, Meadowbank. The fire danger rating in this area is very high. Fire under these conditions can be difficult to control.

This fire may affect the communities of Glenora, Gretna and Bushy Park

This bushfire is currently not controlled. This bushfire is currently creating spot-fires up to 1km ahead of the fire.These spot fires may threaten your home earlier than the predicted main fire front. There may be embers, smoke and ash falling east of the fire.

Meadowbank Rd is open to emergency services and residents only.   

What to do:

• Activate your bushfire plan now
• If your home is well constructed, prepared and actively defended, it may provide shelterIf you don’t have a plan or your plan is to leave – leave now only if the path is clear
• If you are away from home: Do not try to return to your home as the roads in this area could be highly dangerous

Non-residents should stay away from the affected areas.

Visibilty may be affected when travelling on the Lyell Highway due to smoke.

Monitor ABC Local Radio and www.fire.tas.gov.au for further instructions.

Tasmania Fire Service resources in attendance:
6 x HEAVY TANKER
5 x LIGHT TANKER
5 x PERSONNEL CARRIER

Mercury newspaper report and pictures here

Sunday forecast - high fire danger

Fire Weather Warning for the Upper Derwent Valley, Central Plateau, Midlands, East Coast and King Island, East Coast forecast districts

Issued at 4.21pm on Saturday, February 25, 2012.
For the rest of Saturday:

Severe Fire Danger in the following forecast district: Upper Derwent Valley. Very High Fire Danger in the following forecast districts: King Island, East Coast, Midlands and South East

For Sunday, February 26: Very High Fire Danger is forecast for the following forecast districts: Upper Derwent Valley, Central Plateau, Midlands, East Coast and King Island. Maximum temperatures around 36 degrees, relative humidity down to 15% and northerly winds averaging 30 to 35 km/h are expected.

Total fire ban: Sunday, February 26, 2012, has been declared a day of total fire ban for the whole state. No fires may be lit or be allowed to remain alight in the open air until 11.59pm, Sunday, February 26.

The Tasmania Fire Service advises you to:

• Check your bush fire survival plan - now
• Monitor the fire and weather situation on ABC radio or through www.fire.tas.gov.au
• If power supplies fail, listen on your car radio

The Tasmania Fire Service advises that if you are in an area of Very High or Severe Fire Danger:

• Get ready now to leave for a safe place
• Leave immediately if fire breaks out near you
• Only stay if your home is well prepared to withstand fire and you can actively defend it

The next warning will be issued by 5am Sunday.

Weather forecasts:
New Norfolk
Mt Field
Ouse

Meadowbank warning downgraded

9PM UPDATE: This warning has been revised
Click here for latest details

Bushfire Watch & Act Message - Meadowbank Rd, Meadowbank

Current from: 6.31pm until 8.30pm 25/02/2012  or further notice

There is a large bushfire at Meadowbank Rd, Meadowbank. The fire danger rating in this area is very high. Fire under these conditions can be difficult to control.

This fire may affect the communities of Glenora, Gretna and Bushy Park within the next 2-3 hours.

This bushfire is currently not controlled. This bushfire is currently creating spot-fires up to 1km ahead of the fire.These spot fires may threaten your home earlier than the predicted main fire front. There may be embers, smoke and ash falling in the south-east direction.

Reported road closures:  Meadowbank Rd, south of the ski club   

What to do:

• Activate your bushfire plan now
• If your home is well constructed, prepared and actively defended, it may provide shelter
• If you don’t have a plan or your plan is to leave – leave now only if the path is clear
• If you are away from home: Do not try to return to your home as the roads in this area could be highly dangerous
• Non-residents should stay away from the affected areas

Monitor ABC Local Radio and the TFS website www.fire.tas.gov.au for further instructions

Community information:

• Smoke may affect the northern area of Hobart.
• Visibilty may be affected when travelling on the Lyell Highway due to smoke.

Tasmania Fire Service resources in attendance:
5 x HEAVY TANKER
4 x LIGHT TANKER
2 x MEDIUM TANKER
4 x PERSONNEL CARRIER
1 x CAR
1 x ROTARY WING: MEDIUM
1 x ROTARY WING: LIGHT

Bushfires in the valley

TFS map as at 5pm

WITH local temperatures hovering around 40 degrees this afternoon, significant resources have been directed to several bushfires burning in the Derwent Valley. Meadowbank is the main area of concern, (see emergency warning below) although there is also a fire at Broadmarsh and the ongoing incident at the Styx.

The Tasmania Fire Service is also investigating smoke at Sorell Creek and Maydena.

There are 14 Tasmanian Fire Service vehicles on the scene at Meadowbank, with more on the way. One vehicle is on the scene at Gordon River Rd, Maydena.

The Styx fire has been burning for 12 days and has covered an area of 37 hectares. Heavy fuels continue to burn underground, producing smoke but no risk to surrounding land. Forestry Tasmania fire crews and machinery are on site working to extinguish hot spots and patrolling for flare ups.

Vegetation fires at Lower Swamp Rd, Lachlan, and Ellendale Rd at Ellendale, were quickly contained.

Today's tempterature at Bushy Park peaked at 39.1 degrees at 2.07pm. It was probably hotter at New Norfolk but with no weather station here we will never know. 

Bushfire emergency warning - Meadowbank

8PM UPDATE: This warning has been downgraded to a "Watch and Act" message 
Click here for latest details

Bushfire Emergency Warning Message - Meadowbank Rd, Meadowbank 

Warning current from 25/02/2012 03.42pm until 27/02/2012 11.59pm or further notice

There is a  large bushfire at Meadowbank Road, Meadowbank. The fire danger rating in this area is very high. Fire under these conditions can be difficult to control .

The fire is expected to put the area of Meadowbank Dam area at very high risk from the fire front within minutes  .

This bushfire is currently not controlled. There may be embers, smoke and ash falling on south east of the ski club. Smoke is impacting on the outer northern suburbs of Hobart but there is no direct fire risk.

There is a reported road closures at Meadowbank Rd, south of the ski club.  

What to do:

• Activate your bushfire plan now
• It is likely to be too late to leave the area. If your home is well constructed, prepared and actively defended, it may provide shelter
• If you don’t have a plan or your plan is to leave – leave now, only if the path is clear. This may include a neighbouring property or other cleared area close by that is not at risk from fire
• If you are away from home: Do not try to return to your home as the roads in this area could be highly dangerous
• Non residents should stay away from the affected areas

Monitor ABC Local Radio and the TFS Website www.fire.tas.gov.au for further instructions.

Tasmania Fire Services arrived (as at 5pm)
2 x HEAVY TANKER
2 x LIGHT TANKER
2 x MEDIUM TANKER
2 x PERSONNEL CARRIER
1 x ROTARY WING: MEDIUM

Further Resources Mobilised:
1 x LIGHT TANKER
1 x PERSONNEL CARRIER
1 x CAR
1 x ROTARY WING: LIGHT

TFS Map as at 5pm

Severe fire weather warning

Fire Weather Warning for the Upper Derwent Valley forecast district

Issued at 4.13pm on Friday, February 24, 2012.
For Saturday, February 25:

Severe Fire Danger is forecast for the Upper Derwent Valley forecast district, with maximum temperatures around 37 degrees, relative humidity down to 15% and winds averaging 40 km/h expected.

The Tasmania Fire Service advises you to:

• Check your bush fire survival plan - now
• Monitor the fire and weather situation on ABC radio or www.fire.tas.gov.au
• If power supplies fail, listen on your car radio.

The Tasmania Fire Service advises that if you are in an area of Very High or Severe Fire Danger:

• Get ready now to leave for a safe place
• Leave immediately if fire breaks out near you
• Only stay if your home is well prepared to withstand fire and you can actively defend it

The next warning will be issued by 5am Saturday.

Weather forecasts:
New Norfolk
Mt Field
Ouse

Total fire ban

THE Tasmania Fire Service (TFS) has declared a total fire ban for southern Tasmania. The ban is in force for the 24 hours from midnight tonight (Friday).

This includes the Derwent Valley and Central Highlands municipalities as well as Brighton, Clarence, Glamorgan/Spring Bay, Glenorchy, Hobart, Huon Valley, Kingborough, Sorell, Southern Midlands and Tasman.

“The Bureau of Meteorology forecast for hot, dry and windy conditions makes it necessary to ban all fires out of doors in the Southern Region,” TFS chief officer Mike Brown said. “The vegetation in most of the state remains dry despite recent rains. Forecast conditions will cause any fires to develop quickly making control difficult.”

Mr Brown encouraged everyone to take responsibility for their safety, the safety of their families and their property. “If you live in or near the bush, review your bushfire survival plan and be prepared to implement that plan if required,” he said.

The ban includes the use of cutting, welding or other similar equipment in the open. Campers and others who intend to cook in the open should plan to use gas or electric stoves for the entire weekend. Operators of agricultural machinery used to harvest crops or slash grass are encouraged to take particular care, although their use is not included in this ban.

Northern and North-Western Tasmania will also experience high fire danger conditions. A fire ban is not in place for these regions but people need to be careful using fire and consider delaying activities that may involve its use.

Significant penalties can be imposed on anyone not adhering to both the fire ban restrictions and Tasmania Police will conduct regular patrols. All fires should be reported by dialling triple zero (000).

More information:

• www.fire.tas.gov.au
• www.bom.gov.au

Bushy Park Show

MANY thanks to John Davidson for this gallery of photos from last weekend's Bushy Park Show.

Hutchins dominates at speedway

FORMER Tasmanian speedway champion Tim Hutchins closed the gap to the lead in the sprintcar series after an impressive win in the penultimate round at the Hobart International Speedway at Sorell Creek on Saturday night. Hutchins, from Sassafras, the defending series champion, won the 30-lap final from series leader Jamie Bricknell and former state champion Kurt Luttrell, both from Launceston, in a thrilling race which saw a number of positional changes behind Hutchins, who was never seriously threatened and led from green light to chequered flag.

Hutchins was superb in lapped traffic and never allowed his chasers to get close enough to challenge, while back in the pack Luttrell, Bricknell and Forest driver Mark House entertained the crowd with a great battle for the minor placings. House charged from fourth to second about mid-race distance, but crashed heavily shortly afterwards, ending his night prematurely. Luttrell and Bricknell continued their battle until Bricknell gained the ascendancy six laps from the finish and managed to open up a slight break, and in doing so minimising the damage as far as the series lead is concerned, now holding a slender six-point advantage over Hutchins heading into the final round at Latrobe next month.

On the same program Burnie veteran Kerry Short added the 2012 sprint championship to the state title he won in 2007, winning the championship final from Sassafras drivers Luke Redpath and Brock Webster. Short retired not long after winning his 2007 state title, but returned to racing last year, with the move paying dividends on Saturday night.

Redpath qualified on outside pole position for the final and started better than his more experienced rival to lead Short for the first 10-laps of the 20-lap final. But Short was able to take advantage of dry and slick track conditions to regain the lead and once back in front, set about establishing a title-winning lead. Webster started from grid three, but lost ground early to Longford’s Bruce Pitt before taking advantage of his cooling tyres during a stoppage seven laps from the finish caused by an incident back in the pack. At the re-start former state junior sedan champion Webster jumped back into third place and managed to pull away from Pitt in the closing stages for a great third place in his first year in lightning sprints racing.

The program also included the Tasmanian bombers championship, which lived up to pre-race hype as a bruising encounter in the final and a race of survival, with only four cars from the starting grid of 10 finishing the tough affair. The title started sensationally when defending champion Josh Knight and former four-times champion David Hart were involved in a first-lap incident, which claimed four cars, including their own, which both rolled on the back straight.

Sean Devine, who had qualified on pole position for the final, started strongly and was clear of the carnage on the second row, establishing a big lead in the early stages after the re-start necessitated by the opening lap incident. Devine seemingly had the championship in his keeping until a late charge by Kylie Jetson almost saw her stealing the lead with three laps to go. Jetson continued to pressure Devine all the way to the line for a popular second, with Justin Cooley a distant third.

Earlier in the night Spreyton driver Corey Bauld closed the gap to the series lead in the eighth round of the 10-round street stock sedan series with a hard-fought win in the 20-lap final. Series leader Matthew Templar, of Penguin, finished second after a great battle with defending series champion and former state champion Todd Auton, of Ulverstone, snatching second on the last lap to minimise the impact on his series lead of Bauld winning the round.

Southern cricket, round 17

2nd GRADE: New Norfolk scored a convincing victory over Hobart on Saturday. New Norfolk 0 for 176 off 26.3 overs (16 extras) defeated Hobart 10 for 171 off 36 overs (16 extras). New Norfolk batting: Jake King 104 not out, Rohan Heron 57no. New Norfolk bowling: Josh Rowlands 5 for 57 off 8 overs (one maiden), Stewart Rice 3 for 29 off 8 overs, Jamie Maddox 1 for 32 off 10 overs, Rohan Heron 1 for 48 off 10 overs.

In the match at Boyer Oval, Molesworth I put to bed any chance of Gretna I making the finals, with a convincing 7 wicket victory. Gretna won the toss and elected to bat making 148 off 43 overs (7 extras). In reply Molesworth was just too good, chasing down the runs finishing 3 for 150 off just 19.2 overs (8 extras). Molesworth batting: Nathan Eiszele 72 runs (four 4s and five well-struck 6s), Jade Hodge 27no (four 4s), Mark Reggett 23 (two 4s, one 6), Nick Piuselli 18 (one 4, two 6s). Gretna bowling: Bruce Emery 2 for 42 off 6 overs, Corey Ransley 1 for 28 off 5 overs (one maiden). Gretna batting: Ben Rainbird 46 (six 4s, two 6s), Glenn Blackwell 34 (three 4s, two 6s), Mathew Burns 16 (two 4s), Rhys Browning 13 (one 4), Tim Lowe 10 (one 4). Molesworth bowling: Jade Hodge 3 for 14 off 8 overs (two maidens), Brad Coppleman 3 for 29 off 10 overs (one maiden), Tim Nichols 1 for 13 off 10 overs (four maidens), Chris Slater 1 for 23 off 5 overs (one maiden), Mark Reggett 1 for 34 off 6 overs.

4th GRADE: In a rain affected match Bushy Park slipped to second place on the ladder after losing to 7th placed Sorell. Bushy Park won the toss and elected to bat making 10 for 143 off 41.1 overs (26 extras) defeated by Sorell 8 for 114 off 32.5 overs (8 extras). Bushy Park batting: Mitch Crosswell 35, Damien Madden 27, M. Frichol 23, Terrence Pritchard 16. Bushy Park bowling: Nick Fenton 2 for 16 off 9 overs (two maidens), Mitch Crosswell 2 for 18 off 5 overs, M. Frichol 2 for 19 off 8.5 overs (two maidens).         

Gretna II 10 for 109 off 37.3 overs (17 extras) was defeated by Knights 10 for 200 off 45.4 overs (30 extras). Gretna batting: Brian Smith 50 (seven 4s), Jackson Ackerly 10. Gretna bowling: Jackson Ackerly 5 for 35 off 10 overs, Ross Langford 2 for 31 off 10 overs (one maiden), Ben Shaw 2 for 52 off 7 overs, Todd Jarvis 1 for 13 off 2.4 overs.

5th GRADE: Molesworth II 10 for 156 off 32.4 overs (16 extras) defeated by Mackillop Beltas 10 for 185 off 50 overs (40 extras). Molesworth batting: S. Long 62, Brad Ransley 32no, S. Bone 20, D. Williams 10. Molesworth bowling: 4 for 29 off 10 overs, S. Bone 3 for 33 off 9 overs, Brad Ransley 1 for 20 off 9 overs (one maiden), B. Kemmler 1 for 36 off 9 overs.

Next games - SCA Round 18 (last round before finals)
2nd Grade - Saturday: New Norfolk v Molesworth I at Tynwald Park; Gretna I v Rokeby Wanderers at Gretna.
4th Grade - Saturday: Gretna II v McRobies Gully; Bushy Park v DOSA at Bushy Park Show Grounds.
5th Grade - Molesworth II v Lindisfarne at Boyer Oval.

Youth league cricket - round 10

UNDER 13: Gretna Gold 4 for 95 off 20 overs defeated North Hobart 6 for 85 off 20 overs. Gretna Gold batting: Zac Crosswell 34 retired (four 4s, two 6s), Nathan Eyles 32 retired (two 4s, two 6s), Luke Crosswell 16 not out (one 6), Ryan Emery 1no, Blake Eyles 1, Josh Eyles 1. Gretna Gold bowling: Luke Crosswell 2 for 11 off three overs (one maiden), Colby Monks 1 for 7 off three overs (one maiden), Grant Booth 1 for 8 off two overs, Adam Bartels 1 for 13 off three overs.

 

Gretna Green 5 for 65 off 20 overs was defeated by Glenorchy 4 for 74 off 20 overs. Gretna Green batting: Josh Farrow 24 runs retired (one 4, two 6s), Josh Hills 9 (one 4), Reece Williams 4 not out, Ryan Browning 2 retired, Jack Stevenson 2 retired. Gretna Green bowling: Josh Hills 1 for 5 off two overs (one maiden), Ebony Downie 1 for 5 off two overs, Ryan Browning 1 for 13 off two overs, Jacob Bowerman 1 for 14 off two overs.  

UNDER 15: Match washed out. Richmond/Cambridge 10 for 88 off 27.2 overs. Gretna 2 for 13 off seven overs. Gretna batting: Jeremy Nossiter 4 not out, Nathan Blair 4, Dylan Pearce 1no. Gretna bowling: Dylan Pearce 4 for 18 off 3.2 overs, Brodie Gleeson 3 for 7 off 4 overs, Cody Eyles 2 for 5 off 4 overs (two maidens), Nathan Blair 1 for 23 off 4 overs.  

 
Youth League Rd 11 - Sunday, February 26
Under 13: Gretna Green v Sth Hobart/Sandy Bay at Gretna; Gretna Gold v New Town at Queens Walk; New Norfolk v St Anne's Crows at Tynwald Park; Molesworth v North Hobart at Boyer Oval. 
Under 15: Gretna has the bye.

Wheelie good news

THE Derwent Valley Council was one of the first to introduce a kerbside household recycling service but it has taken a long time for the original black crates to be upgraded to wheelie bins as has occurred elsewhere.

The wait is almost over, with the council set to start delivering yellow 140 litre wheelie bins for roadside recycling collections. The old crates will not be used after March 2. Fortnightly emptying of the new yellow bins will start on the first normal rubbish day from March 5.

Householders will receive a pamphlet explaining the new service when the new bins are delivered.

Trophy talk at cricket reunion

A GREAT afternoon was had at the Derwent Valley Cricket Association old players reunion held at the New Norfolk RSL Club on Saturday last week. Many memories were re-lived over a beer or two with many stories stretching back to the early days of the association. Organiser Tony Adams was happy with the roll up considering the short notice. "Yes it was a good afternoon, it was great to catch up, we hope to have another reunion in 12 months time," he said.

Former DVCA secretary of around 23 years, David Mann, agreed it would be great to hold another. "If we all help Tony and get the word out there it will make for another great reunion," he said.

Former player Robbie Crane, who ended up 99 not out after all his stories, is wondering if anyone knows the whereabouts of the 1973 winning Country Week team photo and scorebook? If you have any information you can contact me on 0429 704 677.   

WADE GLEESON

Bushy Park Show

JUST 15 minutes out of New Norfolk in the beautiful Upper Derwent Valley, the annual Bushy Park Show is on this Saturday, February 18. Dating back to 1865, the Bushy Park Show is a great day out in the country. See this week's Derwent Valley Gazette for more details.

Speedway this Saturday night

IT will be a big night at the Hobart International Speedway outside New Norfolk this Saturday night as the state sprintcar series nears its end. The program will also include two state titles and round eight of the street-stock sedan championship, plus a variety of support class racing.

State championships will be decided for the lightning sprints and bombers categories, with support action from wingless sprintcars, sidecars and speedway karts. The Lyell Highway entrance will open at 3pm, with racing for speedway karts and sidecars from 4.30pm and the main program getting underway from 6pm.

Launceston sprintcar driver Jamie Bricknell currently leads the series but his lead is only tentative, with a 28-point break over defending series champion and former state champion Tim Hutchins, of Sassafras, and up to 300 points up for grabs this weekend. Bricknell and Hutchins have swapped the lead in the series throughout the season and either would prove a fitting winner, with Bricknell chasing his first series title after being close several times in recent seasons, winning three rounds of the series to date this summer. Reigning state champion Jason Dawkins, of Launceston, has also won two rounds and is currently in third place, but a big performance this weekend could upset Bricknell and Hutchins.

The sprint championship could see a continuation of a Tasmanian speedway dynasty with Sassafras driver Luke Redpath chasing his first title. Redpath has been in solid recent form and will start favourite, aiming to take out the 36th state title won by a member of his family since 1966, including the sixth to win a lightning sprint title, with his father and four-times winner Bobby Redpath, the last winner, in 2004. His biggest dangers could be George Town's Nathan Hale, former state champion Kerry Short, of Burnie, Longford charger Bruce Pitt, Sassafras youngster Brock Webster, and visiting South Australian driver Kate Wiese, who proved competitive in her Tasmanian debut at Carrick last weekend.

The Tasmanian bombers championship looks to be a fairly open affair with reigning state champion Josh Knight, former champions and brothers Mick and David Hart and the consistent Sean Devine among the main contenders in a title which is sure to have as much emphasis on survival and luck in what will surely be a brutal final.

Read more on the speedway website here.

Farewell Barrie

WELL-KNOWN New Norfolk man Barrie Bremner died in Hobart earlier this week. Mr Bremner was a long-serving and high-ranking member of the Lions Club at local, state and national level and will long be remembered for his key involvement in community affairs.

Mr Bremner served several terms as president of the New Norfolk Lions Club and was district governor in 2005-06. He was made a life member in 2003. Barrie died on Monday and was privately cremated.

New Norfolk eyes the finals

NEW Norfolk moved closer to securing a place in the Southern Cricket Assocation second grade finals with a convincing win over the seventh-placed MacKillop Beltas at Cambridge Oval on Sunday. The superb bowling of Jamie Maddox contributed to MacKillop's dismissal for 169 off 45.4 overs (11 extras). In reply New Norfolk lost only the four wickets in scoring 173 off 27.2 overs (19 extras). New Norfolk batting: Stewart Rice 67 not out, Rohan Heron 35, Leigh Berry 22, Jamie Maddox 16. New Norfolk bowling: Jamie Maddox 4 for 17 off 10 overs (three maidens), Josh Rowlands 3 for 38 off 10 overs (three maidens), Graeme Rowlands 2 for 48 off 9.4 overs (one maiden), Stewart Rice 1 for 39 off 10 overs. A great sign for the New Norfolk team was that only 11 extras were given on its behalf.

Molesworth I lost its second match in as many weeks with a 71-run loss to the first-placed Sorell at Boyer Oval. Sorell won the toss and scored 8 for 223 off 42 overs (32 extras). In reply Molesworth could only manage 10 for 152 off 33.2 overs (22 extras). Molesworth batting: Nick Piuselli 28, Ricky Martin 23, Ben Eyles 16, Jade Hodge 16, Brad Coppleman 12. Molesworth bowling: Chris Slater 3 for 27 off eight overs (one maiden), Ben Eyles 2 for 62 off seven overs, Dean King 1 for 14 off six overs (one maiden), Ricky Martin 1 for 45 off eight overs.

Gretna I suffered its fourth loss in a row, going down to the eighth-placed Hobart at Gretna. Gretna won the toss and made 9 for 133 off 35 overs (22 extras). In reply Hobart lost four wickets for 134 off 25.2 overs (24 extras). Gretna batting: Mathew Burns 27 runs (3 fours), Bruce Emery 23 (1 four), Brian Smith 13 (3 fours), Tom Allcock 13 (1 four), Aaron Maddox 11 (1 four), Ben Rainbird 11.
 
4th Grade: Bushy Park remains on top of the ladder despite losing to second-placed Sandford on Saturday. Bushy Park won the toss and elected to bat, making 10 for 161 off 35.5 overs (13 extras). In reply Sandford made 5 for 162 off 40.1 overs (36 extras). Bushy Park bowling: Captain Mitch Crosswell made 57, Damien Madden made 31, Nick Fenton 12, A. Smith 11, M. Frichol 11. Bushy Park bowling: Terrence Pritchard 2 for 34 off nine overs (one maiden), Trent Grant 1 for 20 off five overs (one maiden), M. Frichol 1 for 23 off six overs (one maiden), A. Smith 1 for 33 off five overs. 

Gretna II defeated Claremont on forfeit.

5th Grade: Molesworth II lost its first match after two wins in a row, going down easily to St Aidans at North Warrane on Saturday. St Aidans won the toss and hit up the big score of 9 for 288 of their 50 overs (34 extras). In reply Molesworth was bowled out for 101 from 23.1 overs (11 extras). Molesworth batting: S. Long 21, J. Maddox 20, Brett Hodge 14, S. Bone 14. Molesworth bowling: Cody Neads 2 for 45 off 10 overs (one maiden), S. Long 2 for 57 off 10 overs (one maiden), Baxter Oliver 1 for 46 off 10 overs (one maiden), S. Bone 1 for 51 off six overs, Matthew Hay 1 for 54 off 10 overs (one maiden).

Cricket youth league - round nine

UNDER 13: Gretna Green 6 for 100 off 20 overs defeated St Anne's Cougars 6 for 89 off 20 overs.
Gretna batting: Jack Stevenson 19 runs not out (1 four), Josh Farrow 15 (3 fours), Ryan Browning 14no (2 fours), Jacob Bowerman 11no (1 four), Josh Hills 10 (2 fours), Zac Carnes 9no (2 fours), Reece Williams 5 (1 four), Jake Ransley 1, Jack Hills 1. Gretna bowling: Josh Farrow 3 for 11 off three overs, Jake Ransley 1 for 10 off two overs, Reece Williams 1 for 17 off two overs (one runout).

Gretna Gold 6 for 111 off 20 overs defeated Kingborough 5 for 91 off 20 overs. Gretna batting: Luke Crosswell 25 runs not out (4 fours), Nathan Eyles 22no (1 four, 1 six), Grant Booth 17no (1 four), Zac Crosswell 17, Josh Eyles 9, Ryan Emery 7 (1 four), Colby Monks 6no, Hannah Mann 3, Blake Eyles 2, Adam Bartels 2. Gretna bowling: Luke Crosswell 3 for 15 off three overs, Ryan Emery 1 for 7 off three overs, Colby Monks 1 for 8 off two overs.

UNDER 15: Gretna 7 for 220 off 40 overs defeated Tas Uni 9 for 61 off 29.5 overs. Gretna batted second and reached the target 1 for 62 off 16 overs and continued playing for the remaining 24 overs. Gretna batting: Aaron Thorpe 70 runs (12 fours), Guy Hodge 35 runs (4 fours, 2 sixes), Daniel Browning 28 (3 fours), Zac Webb 17 (2 fours), Nathan Blair 15no (1 four), Alex Blair 3no, Lucas Davidson 3, Jamie Davidson 2. Gretna bowling: Nathan Blair 3 for 3 off three overs (one maiden), Lucas Davidson 2 for 11 off 3.5 overs (one maiden), Daniel Browning 2 for 9 off three overs (one maiden), Cody Eyles 1 for 5 off three overs, Aaron Thorpe 1 for 6 off three overs (one maiden).

Next matches - Round 10
Under 13: Gretna Green v Glenorchy at Eady St No 2, Gretna Gold v New Town at Glenora District High School.
Under 15: Gretna v Richmond/Cambridge at Richmond Oval.

Second meeting for film society

THE second meeting of the Derwent Valley Film Society will be held this Saturday, February 18, in the St Matthew's Church Hall, Bathurst St, New Norfolk. The film for the night will be The Snapper. More information here.

New Norfolk In2Cricket

CRICKET Australia has announced that its latest Tasmanian In2Cricket Centre will be in the Derwent Valley. The program will run for three weeks with a total of six sessions to be held at New Norfolk's Boyer Oval.

Sponsored by Milo, the In2Cricket program offers children aged 5 to 10 years the opportunity to kick-start their cricket career, learn skills like batting, bowling, catching and throwing, as well as social skills allowing them to make new friends and most importantly to have fun.

“Cricket season is here again and In2Cricket is the best way for kids to get involved,” program manager Chris Rawson said. “It’s exciting for Cricket Australia and Cricket Tasmania to work together to provide kids from the local community the chance to experience cricket and I encourage everyone to come down.”

Cricket Australia CEO James Sutherland said the program was a fundamental component in creating Australia’s next generation of cricketers.  “Milo In2Cricket sessions such as this one in New Norfolk are extremely important as we grow cricket as Australia’s favourite sport,” Mr Sutherland said. “We are dedicated to giving 5-10 year-old boys and girls an enjoyable and fun cricket experience, whether it’s at cricket clubs, in schools or at one of the thousands of weekend Milo In2Cricket clinics around Australia."

The New Norfolk clinics will start on February 29. To register or to find out more, visit www.in2cricket.com.au and search for New Norfolk.

Hawthorn visits New Norfolk

Hawk Mitch Hallahan behind the counter at McDonald's New Norfolk.

MEMBERS of the Hawthorn football club visited New Norfolk last Wednesday for what was described as a "McDonald’s event". The players signed autographs, posed in photos with young fans and helped the staff serve customers.

Photo: www.hawthornfc.com.au

Junior footy coaches wanted

THE New Norfolk Junior Football Club is seeking applications for coaches for the Under 8 to Under 16 teams for the 2012 STJFL season. Applications should be addressed to the Manager, NNJFC, PO Box 322, New Norfolk TAS 7140 or emailed to david.banks2@bigpond.com. Applications close 22nd Feb 2012.

There is more information about the NNJFC here.

Young cricketers gain experience

AN Under 13 Derwent Valley representative cricket team recently played four matches over two days against five other Under 13 teams from southern Tasmania. The local team was selected from the Gretna, Molesworth and New Norfolk clubs. Although they didn't win a game, the team came very close on most occasions. The experience will hold them in good stead for the future.

The players and parents would like to thank their coach Darren Stevenson for all the time and effort he put in right from the trials through to the matches. Thanks also to Bruce Emery and Stewart Rice for helping out during the matches. Well done team, you have once again done the Valley proud.

WADE GLEESON

 Front from left: Jack Guesdon (NN), Ryan Emery (G), Nathan Rice (NN), Blake Howlett (M), Liam Triffitt (NN), Ryan Banks-Smith (NN); Back: Austin York (NN), Zac Crosswell (G), Jack Stevenson (G), vice captain Joshua Farrow (G), captain Reece Williams (G), Hannah Mann (G), Luke Crosswell (G) and Bryce Duncan (M). Picture: Tania Stevenson.

Reader's letter - signs of the times

DO we really want this image of our town portrayed to our visitors? How disgusting! The topic of many tourism operators meetings is how to attract more visitors to the town and convince them to stay more than one night - that is if they are not put off by sights like these.

Who is responsible for control of these illegal signs? If it is the signage committee of the Derwent Valley Council, may I suggest that they implement their powers and do something about it. I recall back in 2006, a new signage policy was discussed, now six years on the situation is even worse - a free-for-all to put any signs up. Cars for sale, boats, and please note that the firewood hotline is not even a local number but an Eastern Shore number.

Comments would be welcome from concerned ratepayers and any other interested parties.

LYDIA GRAHAM

Youth league cricket

UNDER 13s: Gretna Green 4 for 81 off 20 overs defeated New Town 7 for 61 off 20 overs at Eady St No 2. Gretna Green batting: Jack Stevenson 21 runs retired (two 4s, one 6), Josh Farrow 12 runs (two 4s), Reece Williams 9 retired, Zac Carnes 5 not out, Josh Hills 4 (one 4), Jack Hills 1. Gretna Green bowling: Josh Farrow 2 for 2 off two overs (one maiden), Ebony Downie 2 for 18 off two overs, Jack Stevenson 1 for 1 off two overs (one maiden), Reece Williams 1 for 1 off two overs (one maiden), Jack Hills 1 for 6 off two overs (one maiden).

Gretna Gold defeated South Hobart Sandy Bay on forfeit.

Under 15s: Gretna 8 for 178 off 40 overs defeated Clarence 10 for 114 off 34 overs at Gretna. Gretna batting: Brock Nichols 58 runs not out (seven 4s), Cody Eyles 22no (four 4s), Guy Hodge 15no (one 4). Gretna bowling: Cody Eyles 2 for 5 off four overs (one maiden), Lucas Davidson 2 for 5 off three overs (one maiden), Wade Lockley 2 for 20 off three overs, Zac Webb 2 for 14 off four overs (one maiden), Josh Russell 1 for 1 off one over, Jamie Davidson 1 for 5 off three overs.

Next matches, Round 9, Sunday February 12
Under 13s, 9am start: Gretna Gold v Kingborough at Glenora District High School, Gretna Green v St Anne's Cougars at Cadbury No 1.
Under 15s, 12.30 start: Gretna v Tasmania University at Glenora District High School.

Southern cricket - round 15

WITH a well-made century, New Norfolk opening batsman Rohan Heron helped his team into the top five of the Southern Cricket Association 2nd Grade on Saturday against the fourth-placed Richmond/Cambridge. Having won the toss, Richmond/Cambridge would be regretting sending New Norfolk in to bat as they never were in the chase being bowled out for a mere 92 runs off 30.2 overs (22 extras) while pursuing New Norfolk's 5 for 296 off 50 overs (40 extras). New Norfolk's bowling attack was right on the money, led by that old hand Graeme "Snowy" Rowlands.

Third-placed Molesworth suffered a one wicket shock loss to the last-placed Runnymede on Saturday at Runnymede. Molesworth won the toss and elected to bat, making the small total of 10 for 136 off 39.2 overs (14 extras). In reply Runnymede just made it - 9 for 137 off 35.2 overs (21 extras).

Sixth-placed Gretna I suffered its third loss in a row, going down to seventh-placed MacKillop Beltas at Cambridge Oval on Saturday. The Beltas won the toss and elected to bat, making the good score of 10 for 273 off 49.4 overs (17 extras). In reply Gretna couldn't find quite enough runs, making 10 for 241 off 44.5 overs (33 extras).

4th Grade: Bushy Park continued on its merry way with a 108 run win over Marquis Tigers. Bushy Park, on top of the fourth grade ladder, won the toss and elected to bat, hitting up the good score of 6 for 230 off the allotted 50 overs (46 extras). In reply the seventh-placed Tigers with only 10 players finished with 9 for 122 off 35.2 overs (27 extras).

Gretna II with 10 for 152 off 35 overs (35 extras) was defeated by Dynnyrne, 9 for 186 off 44 overs (44 extras).

5th Grade: Some good performances by the young brigade helped Molesworth II make it two wins in a row, defeating Moonah by five wickets at Cosgrove on Sunday. Molesworth  5 for 180 off 38.4 overs (36 extras) defeated Moonah 10 for 176 off 30.4 overs (27 extras). 

Ladders (unofficial), with three rounds remaining. Top 5 play off in the finals.
2nd Grade: Sorell 75pts 1.72%, Rokeby Wanderers 57pts 1.42%, Molesworth I 57pts 1.3%, Richmond/Cambridge 57pts 1.04%, New Norfolk 51pts 1.13%, Gretna I 45pts 1.05%, MacKillop Beltas 39pts 0.83%, Montagu Bay Sharks 24pts 0.7%, Hobart 24pts 0.67%, Runnymede 21pts 0.63%.
4th Grade: Bushy Park 66pts 1.82%, Sandford 60pts 1.09%, Knights 57pts 1.18%, McRobies Gully 54pts 0.99%, Sorell 45pts 0.93%, DOSA 45pts 0.91%, Dynnyrne 39pts 0.91%, Marquis Tigers 39pts 0.88%, Claremont 27pts 0.96%, Gretna II 18 pts 0.61%.
5th Grade: Old Beach 72pts 1.52%, Risdon Vale 57pts 1.54%, Montagu Bay Sharks 54pts 1.54%, MacKillop Beltas 54pts 1.32%, St Aidans 54pts 0.8%, Lindisfarne 48pts 1.13%, Campania 33pts 0.76%, Molesworth II 30pts 0.7%, Moonah 24pts 0.75%, Runnymede 24pts 0.53%.

Next matches (Round 16)
2nd Grade, Sunday, February 12: Molesworth I v Sorell at Boyer Oval, New Norfolk v MacKillop Beltas at Cambridge Oval, Gretna I v Hobart at Gretna.
4th Grade, Saturday, February 11: Gretna II v Claremont at Gretna, Bushy Park v Sandford at Sandford.
5th Grade, Saturday, February 11: Molesworth II v St Aidans at North Warrane.
 
Derwent Valley Cricket Association Old Players Reunion
A reminder that the DVCA old players reunion will be held at the New Norfolk RSL on this Saturday, February 11, starting at midday. Nibbles will be provided and there will also be a history display. If you have any memorabilia such as photos, scorebooks or paper clippings, please bring them along as many memories will be re-lived. If you would like to come along you can give Tony Adams a call on 0408 610 728 or just turn up on the day. If you know of any one who would like to come along, please let them know. Players from the DVCA (which is now in recess) who are still having a hit somewhere, are most welcome to come along.

WADE GLEESON

Queen's jubilee photo gallery

Lest we forget - Black Tuesday

EXACTLY 45 years ago today, many parts of Tasmania including the Derwent Valley were devastated by one of Australia's worst natural disasters. Tuesday, February 7, 1967, saw the island engulfed by its worst-ever bushfires. Fires raged from Hamilton and Bothwell down to the Huon and Channel. Sixty-two people were killed, hundreds injured and thousands left homeless.

Teamwork saved the Derwent Valley from untold disaster, but the damage was extensive with 65 homes and one life lost. Firefighters, teachers, senior schoolboys, papermakers, the general public, inmates from Hayes Prison Farm and staff and patients from Royal Derwent Hospital worked side-by-side to battle the ferocious fires. Black Tuesday claimed one victim in the Derwent Valley - elderly Miss Elsie Boyer whose body was found in the ruins of historic Kilburn Grange homestead at New Norfolk.

"65 DV homes lost, fire danger is still critical" was the headline in the Derwent Valley Gazette on Friday, February 10, 1967. Gazette correspondents reported scenes of destruction throughout the Valley, including Molesworth, Lachlan, Boyer, Magra, Sorell Creek, Plenty, Dromedary, Granton, Hamilton, Gretna, Hollow Tree and Bushy Park.

The flames struck viciously at Magra during the morning of February 7, and then raced on to Norfolk North and Boyer. Within 15 minutes, houses up to 800 metres apart burst into flames. The clubhouse at the New Norfolk Golf Club was completely destroyed. Quick work by the fire brigade and Charlie Cawthorn stopped a serious blaze near Oast St from spreading to the nearby ANM Hostel (now Rosie's Inn) and surrounding residential area.

Fires broke out in the extensive grounds of the Royal Derwent Hospital all afternoon and the only hope of controlling them was with the help of staff and patients. About 26 of the patients were from the hospital's security ward and all received commendations for their efforts. Later that night, the New Norfolk Hospital sent supplies to the New Norfolk War Memorial Hall where an emergency centre had been established.

Male teachers and most senior boys from New Norfolk High School fought fires at Lachlan and Sorell Creek. Many other students fought a fire that broke out below the school hostel and fire breaks were ploughed all over the school property.

Seven hundred ANM (now Norske Skog) workers helped to save the Boyer mill from destruction. A major fire broke out around 1pm and 50 spot fires had erupted around the mill in a matter of minutes. Losses at the mill exceeded $1 million ($11 million today).

In the weeks that followed, more than 60 notices of thanks were published in the Gazette as residents of the Derwent Valley  got on with the job of rebuilding their lives.

Article adapted from "The day the sky turned black", by Damian Bester, Derwent Valley Gazette, February 12, 1997.