Festival traffic arrangements

THERE will be changed traffic arrangements in New Norfolk tomorrow (Sunday) for the duration of the Derwent Valley Autumn Festival.

The Derwent Valley Council has advertised that Ferry St, Page Ave and Alfred St will operate on a one-way system between 9am and 5pm. Heavy traffic is likely in Montagu St.

Free parking will be available at Tynwald Park, off Hobart Rd, and free shuttle buses will provide transport to the festival venue on the Derwent Esplanade.

Open day cancelled

THERE appears to have been a last-minute cancellation of this Sunday's open day at Willow Court. Various Facebook pages and the authoritative royalderwent.com website are tonight reporting that the event has been cancelled due to public safety concerns and a lack of assistance. The site will be open to visitors on May 6 as part of the 2012 Tasmanian Heritage Festival.

More demolition work to come

ROAD closures will be reinstated in New Norfolk's town centre next week to allow for further work at the site of the now-demolished Banjos, Choo Chews and Sintonic shops. Part of Burnett St and one lane in High St will be closed for three days, starting Monday.

Addressing tonight's public meeting, Derwent Valley Council general manager Stephen Mackey said the site had been completely cleared but it had now been determined that the concrete slab must also be removed. Mr Mackey said a 10m exclusion zone was required due to the plant and equipment that would be on site.

Mr Mackey told the meeting that all contaminated materials from the demolition had been disposed of at the Peppermint Hill tip with the approval of the Environment Protection Agency. He dispelled the suggestion that a development application had been lodged with the council for a new building but said it was his understanding that Banjos wanted to develop the site. 

The meeting was attended by about 70 people and lasted 40 minutes. Mayor Martyn Evans opened the proceedings and quickly handed over to Mr Mackey. After Mr Mackey's remarks the meeting was opened to speakers from the floor.

Mal Geard from GN Electrical was first to speak and said the first action of the meeting should be to thank the various fire brigades which had responded to the emergency, along with representatives of Aurora Energy and Tasmania Police. Mr Geard said thanks were also due to the proprietors of the Cheeky Little Place for their generosity towards the emergency service workers in attendance at the fire. These remarks met with applause.

Keith Russell from New Norfolk Meat Supply decried the lack of information from the council and said he had not been given any advice about whether it was safe for him to open his business, which is located right next door to the fire scene. This was a particular concern given the asbestos contamination issues, he said.

Ray Williams from the New Norfolk Business Alliance said the prolonged road closure's impact on local traders had been severe. Councillor Judy Bromfield asked why the demolition work couldn't be done over the weekend and Mr Mackey said this was something the council had no control over.

Greg Hudson from Glasser & Parker asked whether there had been any indication that the affected businesses might relocate to vacant premises in the short term. Mr Mackey said he had spoken to one business owner and left a message for another, offering the council's assistance. Mr Hudson said the vacant supermarket in the J.G O'Brien building was equipped with a bakery and three-phase power and could be a viable temporary location for Banjos. Mr Mackey said he believed the ovens were still in place.

Addressing the issue of further road closures, Mr Hudson said the council should advertise that the shopping strip was still open and that there was plentiful off-street parking available.

New Norfolk Fire Brigade chief officer Colin Triffitt said he would pass on the thanks of the meeting to the various brigades which had attended the fire. He acknowledged that the Top of the Town Bakery (formerly Dee Jays Bakery) had also provided refreshments during the emergency. Mr Triffitt said New Norfolk was always generous in its support of volunteers and volunteering.

The Mercury newspaper came under fire for continuing to publish the acerbic remarks of columnist Leo Scofield in its Saturday Magazine and the mayor was urged to issue an appropriate response. Mr Mackey said he was aware of at least one real estate sale that had been lost due to Mr Scofield's column.

A representative of Subway asked what was planned to bring people back into the town. He said much damage had been done by radio broadcasts advising people to stay away due to asbestos contamination.

Mr Williams detailed the Business Alliance's upcoming music festival, shop-local campaign and its ongoing advertising campaign. Helen Bremner from GN Electrical said street banners and new Christmas decorations were needed.

Local tour operator Richard Onn said it was necessary to give people a reason to come to New Norfolk and in this regard there was a ready-made tourist attraction in waiting. "Willow Court will put New Norfolk on the map and give people a reason to visit," he said, adding that the long-running issue of a power supply should not be allowed to be a stumbling block.

Local footy fixture

THE Southern Football League has issued a revised 11-team roster for season 2012 following the recent withdrawal of the Glenorchy Fotball Club. There is now a bye in each round. The SFL v NTFL game at Ulverstone is still on May 19. The roster for our two local teams follows:

Round 1 - Saturday, April 14
Central Hawks v East Coast Bombers at Oatlands  
Kingborough  vNew Norfolk, night game at Kingston

Round 2 - Saturday, April 21
Huonville v Central Hawks at Huonville  
New Norfolk v Dodges Ferry at Boyer Oval   
 
Round 3 - Saturday, April 28
Brighton  v New Norfolk, night game at Pontville 
Central Hawks v Lindisfarne at Kempton   

Round 4 - Saturday, May 5
New Norfolk v Central Hawks at Boyer Oval   
 
Round 5 - Saturday, May 12
Central Hawks v Sorell at Bothwell   
Claremont v New Norfolk at Abbotsfield Park   

Round  6 - Saturday, May 26
New Norfolk  v Cygnet at Boyer Oval     
Kingborough v Central Hawks at Kingston   
  
Round 7 - Saturday, June 2
East Coast Bombers v New Norfolk at Triabunna  
Central Hawks v Dodges Ferry at Oatlands  
   
Round 8 - Saturday, June 9
Cygnet v Central Hawks at Cygnet   
New Norfolk v Sorell at Boyer Oval   

Round 9 Saturday, June 16
New Norfolk v Huonville at Boyer Oval  
Brighton v Central Hawks at Pontville  
   
Round 10 - Saturday, June 23
Lindisfarne v New Norfolk at Anzac Park   
Central Hawks - bye   

Round 11 - Saturday, June 30
Central Hawks v Claremont at Bothwell   
New Norfolk - bye
   
Round 12 - Saturday, July 7
East Coast Bombers v Central Hawks at Triabunna       
New Norfolk v Kingborough at Boyer Oval   
   
Round 13 - Saturday 14th July 14
Central Hawks v Huonville at Oatlands   
Dodges Ferry v New Norfolk at Dodges Ferry

Round 14 - Saturday, July 21
New Norfolk v Brighton at Boyer Oval   
Central Hawks v Kingborough

Round 15 - Saturday, July 28
Central Hawks v New Norfolk at Bothwell   

Round 16 - Saturday 4th August
Sorell v Central Hawks at Pembroke Oval   
New Norfolk - bye

Round 17 - Saturday, August 11
Cygnet  v New Norfolk at Cygnet       
Central Hawks v Kingborough at Oatlands
   
Round 18 - Saturday 18th August
New Norfolk  v East Coast Bombers at Boyer Oval   
Dodges Ferry v Central Hawks at Shark Park   

Locals in cricket awards

A NUMBER of Derwent Valley men have featured in the Southern Cricket Association awards list for season 2011-12. Congratulations to:

Umpire of the Year - Colin Cunningham
Young Player of the year - Bradley Coppleman (Molesworth)
2nd Grade Most Catches - Stewart Rice (New Norfolk) 13 catches
4th Grade Player of the Year - Mitchell Crosswell (Bushy Park)
4th Grade Bowling Average - Mitchell Crosswell (Bushy Park) 11.3
5th Grade Fielder of the Year - Bradley Ransley (Molesworth)

SCA Player of the Round

• Round 7 - Ben Rainbird (Gretna I) 101 runs not out
• Round 11 - Terrence Pritchard (Bushy Park) 6 for 30 and 43 runs
• Round 14 - Rhys Browning (Gretna I) 103 not out and 2 for 41

Rising Star of the Round

• Round 2 - Joshua Walsh (New Norfolk) 4 for 19
• Round 10 - Bradley Coppleman (Molesworth I) 116 not out
• Round 15 - Dylan Grant (Bushy Park) 64 runs, 1 for 25, 1 catch and 1 run out
• Round 18 - Corey Ransley (Gretna I) 69 runs and 2 for 40

Open for business

TELL all your friends: the roads are open again and New Norfolk's town centre is back in business. The site of last week's fire was cleared today and the fences have been removed from the roadway and traffic is flowing freely in High and Burnett Sts.

The Derwent Valley Council will update the community on future plans for the site at a public meeting tomorrow (Thursday) at 6.30 in the council social rooms in Circle St.

New digs for valley choir

The choir in action

THE Derwent Valley Choir has a new venue for its weekly sessions. The choir now meets on Tuesdays from 7-9pm at St Matthew's Church Hall in Bathurst St, New Norfolk. 

"Singing is terrific for health and well-being and the Derwent Valley Choir is a great way to make new friends and have some musical fun," spokesperson Rebecca Thomson said.  No musical knowledge or singing experience is needed and the cost is only $3 per week with supper included.

A workshop in sight-singing workshop is being planned for later in the year, to be facilitated by award-winning choral conductor and teacher Susan Reppion-Brooke. This will be for children and adults alike. 

For more information contact Jo on 6261 4469 or Beka on 0403 597 558. Email: derwentvalleychoir@live.com

Sandford defeats Bushy Park

THE Southern Cricket Association fourth grade grand final was just about over before it began. Sandford won the toss and sent Bushy Park into bat - and what a move it proved to be. The Sandford bolwers skittled Bushy Park for 66 off 27.2 overs (14 extras and three dropped catches). Terrence Pritchard on 14 was the only Bushy Park batsman to hit double figures. Sandford bowler L. Hanslow took 6 for 13!

In reply Sandford reached the total with little trouble finishing 1 for 70 off 19.3 overs (24 extras). Terrence Pritchard took the one Sandford wicket.

For the Bushy Park boys, it just wasn't their day at all. The disappointment on their faces said it all. But they have a great club with great supporters who really showed this on the day. They have some long-time players who are very passionate and a great official in Karen Fenton who gives her all. Stick together and, as Nick Fenton, having won only two games last season, making the grand final this season was quite an achievement, Well done. Congratulations to Mitch Crosswell on winning the SCA 4th Grade player of the year award - a real fine effort.

Federal MP on TV tonight

Annabel Crabbe and Dick Adams

THE Federal Member for Lyons, Dick Adams MHR, features in the final episode of Kitchen Cabinet on ABC2 tonight. The half-hour entertainment series has been serving up a combination of political discussion and good food. For the last six weeks, journalist Annabel Crabb has been looking into the homes and hearts of some of Australia's most notable and engaging politicians.

In the final episode, Labor backbencher Dick Adams welcomes Annabel into his historically-notorious home in Longford, to talk salmon, mutton birds, cheese, wine, and custom-built cookware. A one-time shearer, Mr Adams explains how he made the journey through various trades, illiterate until well into his twenties, and ultimately became a member of parliament.

While a prodigiously-sized salmon simmers away on the stove, Mr Adams shares the secrets of egg mayonnaise while recounting some of the challenges of his political career, involving his clash with former leader Mark Latham over Tasmanian forestry, in which he defied his own party's election policy.

Born in Tasmania in 1951, Mr Adams descends from convict stock and can trace his ancestors back to Norfolk Island. He grew up on a small dairy farm and after leaving school worked as a shearer, in meat works and on farms. At 17 he lived in Queensland, working as a wool presser and a union delegate.

In the early 1970s Adams was elected as a trade union official for the Meatworkers Union, and in 1979 he was elected to the Tasmanian Parliament. In 1980 he became the Minister for Lands, Minister for National Parks and Minister for Handicapped Services in Doug Lowe’s Labor Government. He left Tasmania state parliament in 1982 when Labor lost the election and he lost his seat. From 1983-93 he was the state organiser for the Federated Miscellaneous Workers Union until he ran for the federal seat of Lyons, which he has held ever since.

He is currently the Chair of the House of Representatives Standing Committee on Agriculture, Resources, Fisheries and Forestry and also the Parliamentary Representative on the Council of the National Library of Australia.

The episide premieres tonight on ABC2 at 9.30pm and will be repeated at 3.30pm this Sunday (April 1) at 10.30pm on ABC News 24 and again on Monday (April 2) at 10.30pm on ABC2.

Links:

• Preview clip
• More about Dick Adams

Public meeting on Banjos fire

THE Derwent Valley Council has agreed to a request for a public meeting to discuss matters relating to last week's fire in High St. The meeting was sought by New Norfolk Business Alliance chairman Ray Williams.

Mr Williams said many businesses in the surrounding area had experienced a dramatic downturn in the last week and were seeking information about how much longer High St would be blocked to traffic and what the future held for the Banjos site.

The meeting will be held in the council social rooms in Circle St, New Norfolk, at 6.30pm this Thursday, March 29.

Sorell triumphs over Molesworth

A GALLANT Molesworth went down to Sorell in the Southern Cricket Association 2nd Grade grand final on Saturday at Sorell. Molesworth tried its hardest to knock off the more fancied Sorell, but it just wasn't to be. Batting first, Sorell reached a handy total of 6 for 225 off its 50 overs (16 extras). In reply Molesworth got off to a bad start, losing captain Mark Reggett without a run on the board. Molesworth finished up 10 for 198 off 47.1 overs (seven extras).

Sorell batting: S. Perkins 42 not out, D. Hudson 41, J. Ferguson 39, Chris Revell 33no, J. Johnson 19, T. Rusher 15, R. Abbott 14. Molesworth bowling: Nathan Eiszele 2 for 33 off six overs, Chris Slater 1 for 17 off six overs (one maiden), Ricky Martin 1 for 30 off five overs, Ben Eyles 1 for 45 off eight overs.

Sorell Bowling: P. Cross 3 for 35 off 8.1 overs (three maidens), D. Hudson 2 for 15 off two overs, R.Iles 2 for 19 off 9 overs (four maidens), T. Rusher 2 for 52 off 10 overs (one maiden), J. Ferguson 1 for 47 off eight overs. Molesworth batting: Brad Coppleman 43, Nick Piuselli 30, Ricky Martin 29, Chris Slater 28, Tim Nichols 21, Nathan Eiszele 16, M. Siely 13. 

There was plenty of support for Molesworth at Sorell on Saturday and no-one was more supportive than their President Dion "Jap" Hay. His efforts nearly resulted in him losing his voice and his address to his players after the game was very well done. Hay congratulated the players on an outstanding effort and asked everyone to not see the season as a loss but as a big achievement for the club as a whole. Well done Molesworth, there was a lot of character shown throughout the match and when things looked out of reach you never gave up.

See this week's Derwent Valley Gazette for a detailed match report. 

Demolition updates

The Banjos Bakery site yesterday. Shopkeepers say they have not heard from the council about the likely duration of the cleanup. A combination of road closures and asbestos fears appear to have kept shoppers away since last Monday's fire. There was some surprise that the clean-up did not continue over the weekend.

The F Ward demolition at Willow Court is entering its fourth week despite contamination concerns. General manager Stephen Mackey told this month's council meeting nothing would be salvageable.

Great concert, more to come

THERE was a good crowd at today's performance by the Derwent Valley Concert Band. The free concert in the New Norfolk War Memorial Hall was the first in the band's farewell series before its European tour later this year. A pleasing aspect of today's audience was the presence of some new faces amongst the regular followers of the band.

The band will perform at the Derwent Valley Autumn Festival this Sunday, April 1, and will appear in another free concert on May 19 at St David's Cathedral, Hobart, at 7.30pm. Read more at www.dvcb.org

Newsflash: Eddy bound for London

LOCAL rower Anthony Edwards has been named as a member of the Australian lightweight four that will compete at this year's Olympic Games in London. The decision was made at the Rowing Australia National Selection Trials at the Sydney International Regatta Centre in Penrith earlier tonight.

National selectors are continuing to consider a range of crews for the other rowing events. All athletes will be rested tomorrow before trialing continues in the remaining boat classes on Tuesday. The selection trials will conclude on Sunday, April 1. After that it will be straight into preparations for pre-Olympic events in Lucerne, Switzerland (May 25–27) and Munich, Germany (June 15–17).

Ballarat-born Anthony Edwards lives at Molesworth with his family and has two silver medals and one bronze from his four previous Olympic outings. London will be his fifth Olympics which is an outstanding feat. Earlier this month he was named the "rower's rower of the year" by Rowing Australia.

Edwards is a member of the New Norfolk Rowing Club and works as the state development officer for Rowing Tasmania. Fellow New Norfolk Rowing Club members Kate Hornsey and Kerry Hore are also up for Olympic selection as is former New Norfolk rower Dana Faletic who is in the midst of a successful comeback to the sport.

Edwards was featured in the Mercury last week.

MONDAY UPDATE: Kate Hornsey has today been recommended for Olympic selection. Kate is the daughter of Brian and Anne Hornsey from Molesworth.

Weekend activities

YOUR weekend attractions in pictures. Take your pick and have a good weekend in the Valley.

SATURDAY 10am-1pm: Free jazz and swing music in High St with Les Coq Incroyables

SUNDAY: Hamilton Show, a great day for all the family, just 30 minutes up the Lyell Highway

FREE CONCERT 2.30-4pm: With the Derwent Valley Concert Band at the War Memorial Hall

Grand final cricket tips

SORELL might be the favourite for the Southern Cricket Association 2nd Grade final, but I feel they are due for a bad game with Molesworth winning in a close one and causing the upset to win back to back flags. Ben Eyles and Mark Reggett should be the main run scores and Dean King and Ben Eyles should clean up Sorell, with Eyles for man of the match. Molesworth official Paul Reed said they have two buses already booked for the trip to Sorell on Saturday.

There is a great feeling about the Bushy Park boys right now and I'm tipping them to roll Sandford in 4th Grade and win their first flag in the SCA since entering in 2008/09. Shaun Fenton, Mitch Crosswell and Dylan Grant to make the runs while Nick Fenton and Mitch Croswell run through the Sandford line up, and  Crosswell for man of the match. Bushy Park's last flag came in the DVCA in the season of 2002/03 (B Grade). Players still remaining from that team include Mitch Crosswell, Nick Fenton, Shaun Fenton and Andrew Smith.

Good Luck to both Molesworth I and Bushy Park. We are all hoping you bring back a flag each.

WADE GLEESON

Local businesses need support

IN the wake of this week's fire in the central business district, many shops in the area have reported a dramatic drop in custom. The impact appears to spread across a wide range of businesses and not just those in the immediate area.

Central High St remains blocked to traffic, as does part of Burnett St, but the fenced area has been adjusted to allow cars travelling along Burnett St from the Woolworths end to continue up High St towards the council chambers.

Hazell Brothers has made a start on the demolition of the gutted Lee & Sons building today. The contractors are to be commended for their pro-active work in personally advising nearby business operators of their plan of attack for the work.

• A reminder about the street music series starting this weekend thanks to the New Norfolk Business Alliance. Three-piece jazz and swing outfit Les Coq Incroyables will be outside the post office from 10am to 1pm this Saturday, March 24.

The demolition scene in High St this evening

Molesworth and Bushy into grand finals

MOLESWORTH I will play Sorell in the Southern Cricket Association second grade grand final this weekend after a terrific win over New Norfolk in the preliminary final on Saturday. On the big Boyer Oval, New Norfolk made the modest total of 10 for 167 off 45.5 overs (18 extras) after winning the toss. With excellent performances from all the Molesworth bowlers the New Norfolk batsmen were given few opportunities with Ben Eyles being the main destroyer with three wickets. Stewart Rice topped-scored with 40 and captain Glen Williams was next best with 28.

In reply, Molesworth lost the early wickets of Reggett with the score on three, then Brad Coppleman with the score on five. From here they cruised to victory, with Nick Piuselli and Ricky Martin sharing a 45-run partnership then Martin and Ben Eyles stepped things up sharing a 106 run partnership to squash any chance of a New Norfolk victory. Molesworth ended up 4 for 170 off 33.5 overs (11 extras).

New Norfolk batting: Stewart Rice 40, Glen Williams 28, Ashley Morgan 25, Leigh Berry 13, Jamie Hill 12, Chris Ashcroft 12. Molesworth bowling: Ben Eyles 3 for 17 off 7.5 overs (three maidens), Chris Slater 2 for 21 off eight overs (two maidens), M. Siely 2 for 32 off six overs, Ricky Martin 2 for 37 off eight overs (one maiden), Brad Coppleman 1 for 12 off three overs.

Molesworth batting: Ricky Martin 76, Ben Eyles 56no, Nick Piuselli 19. New Norfolk Bowling: Graeme Rowlands 2 for 46 off nine overs (one maiden), Josh Rowlands 1 for 18 off five overs (two maidens), Jamie Maddox 1 for 18 off five overs.

Bushy Park booked themselves a spot in the fourth grade Grand Final with a narrow win over McRobies Gully at Cambridge Oval on Saturday. McRobies won the toss and sent Bushy Park into bat to make 10 for 185 off 47.5 overs (18 extras). A 104-run partnership between captain Mitch Croswell (74 runs) and Damien "Mazda" Madden (40 runs) and 22 runs from Andrew Smith helped build the competitive total. In reply McRobies Gully was bowled out for 174 in 48.5 overs (37 extras). Of the Bushy Park bowlers, Andrew Smith finished a good game with three wickets, but he wasn't without support with three other bowlers taking two wickets each. Mitch Crosswell led like a captain on a mission, bowling extremely well to take 1 for 19 off 10 overs to cap off a great day.

Bushy Park batting: Mitchell Crosswell 74, Damien Madden 40, Andrew Smith 22, Dylan Grant 10. Bushy Park bowling: Andrew Smith 3 for 45 off nine overs, Nick Fenton 2 for 18 off five overs, M. Frichol 2 for 23 off 4.5 overs, Dylan Grant 2 for 32 off 10 overs (one maiden), Mitch Crosswell 1 for 19 off 10 overs (one maiden). Well done to Damien Madden for taking three catches. 

This weekend's matches - Saturday, March 24
2nd Grade Grand Final: Sorell v Molesworth I at Sorell No.1, 10.30am
4th Grade Grand Final: Sandford v Bushy Park at Cambridge Oval, 10.30am
1st Grade: Wellington v St Aidan's at Eady St
3rd Grade: St Aidan's v Claremont at North Warrane
5th Grade: St Aidan's v Old Beach, venue TBA.
6th Grade: Richmond/Cambridge v Dynnyrne at Richmond

Reader's letter: councillor comments

THERE has been some considerable angst around last Thursday's council meeting and some of the decisions made at that meeting. Questions have been raised about some councillor’s reasons for the way they voted on the motion put by Councillor Damien Bester in relation to the fencing of the buildings D, E, G, and F. There has also been a lot of comment made around council’s decision to hold part of their workshops in closed sessions.

It has been suggested by some that council does not care what happens to the Willow court site, nothing could be further from the truth, the issue of protecting Willow court from the vandalism that has and is occurring is not a simple one.

I cannot speak for other councillors but I will give my reasons for not supporting the motion. I don’t believe that spending more money on fencing will do what needs to be done; it is my belief that council must engage the services of a security specialist to advise council on the most effective ways to protect the site. It is no good to spend large amounts of money on a measure that by the opinion of same may have little or no effect. Fencing may well be one of the measures required but none of the councillors has the expertise to offer that advice. Too often we jump in and make a decision based on emotion, we need to find out the right way to go and then get on with it.

I was one of the councillors on the working group formed to undertake a review of the committee system; the working group was made up of five councillors and also council staff. During that review we asked that councillors send us their ideas and views, we received only one submission. That submission was included in our recommendation put to council. The main reason for holding part of council workshops is to give councillors a forum in which to raise issues or grievances,  it has been portrayed by some that the closed sessions are somehow set up to deceive the public, this is simply not true.


Finally let me say I respect every person’s right to their opinion, what I don’t respect is when people start to use derogatory terms to deride and belittle another because their opinion doesn’t mirror their own, be as strong as you like but keep it nice.

Councillor Chris Lester

Fire aftermath

CENTRAL High St remains closed to traffic tonight following this morning's fire in the building that housed three New Norfolk businesses. A security guard is on duty overnight and the building was still smouldering earlier this evening.

Pedestrians still have access to shops in the area but the High St/Burnett St junction remains closed to traffic. Fences and barriers are in place.

ABC News tonight reported that the fire had caused damage estimated at more than $1 million and the 99-year-old building was likely to be demolished.

More from ABC News here

TUESDAY UPDATE: The Mercury's report here. 

The scene in High St at twilight tonight

Junior cricketers celebrate season

ON Saturday the Gretna Cricket Club's junior cricketers had their trophy day and barbecue at the Gretna Oval. The day started with with the Under 13s playing a match between themselves which was played at a very high standard. Following this all enjoyed a barbecue and presentation of the trophies which was done by senior players Corey Ransley and Tom Allcock.

All 37 juniors received a trophy and a certificate each for their fine season. Coaches Owen Browning, Darren Stevenson and Bruce Emery were presented with plaques for their efforts as were Kevin Williams, Jarrod Nossiter and Ian Booth for their work in managing the teams and assisting the coaches throughout the season. To all you guys, thank you for your time and efforts it really is much appreciated. Also attending the trophy day was Member for Derwent Craig Farrell and Derwent Valley Councillor Damian Bester, both of whom provided financial assistance towards the day, which the club is most appreciative of. Thanks from all involved, it really does help out.

At the conclusion of the presentation, club president Peter Rainbird congratulated all the juniors, saying how great it was to again see such a large number of juniors at the club of which assures it of a great future. A big thank you must also be made to the Glenora District High School and Lyn Saunders for allowing the club to play junior games on their oval when required. This really is a huge help for all involved.

Following the presentations the Under 15s played a Twenty20 match which also included a few dads. The match was very entertaining one to say the least, with everyone having a great time. Thanks to Tom Allcock and Rhys Browning for umpiring, which was also very entertaining. To all the juniors, I really hope to see you back again next season as it will be bigger and better again. As well as Under 13s and Under 15s the club is looking to have an Under 17s team next season. If you would like a game please do come along as you will be more than welcome. "Our kids - their future".

WADE GLEESON

Gretna Cricket Club Under 13s (2011/12). Back row from left: Managers Ian Booth and Kevin Williams, Nathan Eyles, Grant Booth, Hannah Mann, Zac Carnes, Reece Williams, Joshua Farrow, Jack Stevenson, Jacob Bowerman and coaches Darren Stevenson and Bruce Emery. Middle row from left: Dylan Downie, Luke Crosswell, Zachery Crosswell, Jake Ransley, Adam Bartels, Ebony Downie. Front from left: Blake Eyles, Jack Hills, Colby Monks, Joshua Eyles, Ryan Emery, Ryan Browning. Absent: Joshua Hills. Photo taken at Gretna.



 

Gretna Cricket Club Under 15s (2010/11). Back row from left: Coach Owen Browning, Wade Lockley, Jeremy Nossiter, vice captain Daniel Browning, captain Alex Blair, deputy vice captain Brodie Gleeson , Cody Eyles, Brock Nichols, manager Jarrod Nossiter and junior development officer Wade Gleeson. Front from left: Aaron Thorpe, Dylan Pearce, Nathan Blair, Joshua Russell, Lucas Davidson, Jamie Davidson, Guy Hodge, Connor Salter, Zac Webb. Photo taken at Gretna.

Three businesses gutted

The scene this morning

FIRE has destroyed the century-old former Harris Scarfe building in central New Norfolk this morning, wiping out three local businesses. Banjo's Bakery, Choo Chews lolly shop and Sintonic gifts and games have been gutted, along with the first floor.

Eleven crews from the New Norfolk, Magra, Bridgewater and Hobart fire brigades have been in attendance since shortly after 3am and remain at the scene. Lachlan and Claremont brigades also provided support.

TFS district officer Gerald Crawford said the bulk of the fire had been knocked down, but it was still burning in the centre of the building.
Mr Crawford said the Hobart Fire Brigade's snorkel unit had greatly assisted the firefighting effort.

Damage has been restricted to the one building, but shops in Burnett and High Sts have suffered from water and smoke.

UPDATES:

• themercury.com.au
• abc.net.au

As it was, circa 1913, proudly built by the Lee family

Concert band's farewell series

THE Derwent Valley Concert Band (DVCB) is about to leave Tasmania – again. Nearing its 20^th anniversary, the band is preparing for its ninth overseas tour. As part of the tour preparations, the band will present a series of free concerts at venues in New Norfolk and Hobart. The first of these hour-long concerts will be presented in the New Norfolk War Memorial Hall on March 25 at 2.30pm. The next concert in the series will be on May 19 in St David’s Cathedral, Hobart, at 7.30pm. The band will also perform at the Derwent Valley Autumn Festival on April 1.

The band was established in New Norfolk in 1993 because of a perceived need for a local band to cater for musicians of all ages in the New Norfolk community and the wider Derwent Valley. The upcoming three week tour of Poland and Austria follows last year’s visit to Tasmania by the Nadarzyn Wind Orchestra. This fine ensemble was hosted by the DVCB and even with little language in common, members of the two bands became firm friends.

“The DVCB is looking forward immensely to spending time with them again and performing together in some of the marvellous Polish venues,” musical director Layton Hodgetts said.  “Concerts have been organised for the major centres of Poznan, Kolo, Klodowa, Nadarzyn and Warsaw,” he added. “The tour actually begins in Austria and the very first performance will be given in the magnificent baroque Kollegien-Kirche in Salzburg. Sharing the program will be Postmusik Salzburg, another wind ensemble with which the DVCB has retained close ties since their first meeting in China in 1999,” Mr Hodgetts said.

From Salzburg, the band will proceed to Schladming where it will participate in the Mid-Europe Wind Orchestra Conference, a major festival on the European calendar which attracts more than 40 ensembles (over 2500 musicians) from countries all over the world. The band will participate in workshops and give several concerts, one of which will be entirely devoted to Australian music for winds.  This program will include the international premiere performances of new works by Simon Read and Mark Buys - commissioned especially for this tour.

Reader's letter: Willow Court

I HEARTILY concur with Mrs Salt's comments regarding the recent Derwent Valley Council meeting. I am the member of the public who left in disgust at the Council's attitude towards Councillor Bester's motions.  As a person who chose to retire to New Norfolk from the mainland for its natural beauty and historical significance, I am appalled by the Council's lack of foresight and seeming inertia in not wanting to preserve Willow Court.  I had envisaged New Norfolk being on a par with other towns such as Richmond and Ross but sadly Council seems not to share this vision but wishes to exploit crass commercial opportunities such as the recent McDonald's acquisition to the township! Wake up - the electorate will only tolerate this vandalism for so long before it takes direct action.

Allyson Lock

Coming soon: Re-New Norfolk

Hundreds and thousands

THE New Norfolk News has today posted its 1000th news item since the website was established in July 2008. This coincides with the 100,000th page view also occurring today.

Sincere thanks to all readers and contributors for their ongoing support. 

It's recycling week

IF you're in New Norfolk it's recycling week again, so don't forget to put your new yellow bin alongside your garbage bin. This week will be the second fortnightly emptying of the new recycling bins since they were distributed last month. Some householders mistakenly put their yellow bins out last week.

Unlike the old recycling crates, the new yellow bins are emptied fortnightly and should be put out along with your garbage bin (or on their own if you're now throwing less into that bin) on your usual collection day. The council asks that bins be placed about one metre apart.

What can go in the recycling bin?

• Paper and cardboard: Flatten boxes and place all cardboard and paper loose into the wheelie bin. Paper and cardboard does not need to be tied.
• Glass bottles and jars: Please remove all caps and lids and rinse out the containers.
• Aluminium and steel: Food and drink cans (washed clean please).
• Plastic bottles: Clear and coloured plastic bottles and jars (please remove lids and rinse).
• Liquid paperboard containers: Milk cartons etc, but not those with foil lining (please rinse).

Please don't include the following in your recycling:
Plastic bags, food scraps, garden waste, pizza boxes (and other food-contaminated cardboard), plastic meat trays, nappies, household rubbish, sharps (syringes etc), unwashed containers, window glass, light globes, crockery, spray cans, broken glass, ceramics, Pyrex, medical waste.

Questions about the recycling service should be directed to the Derwent Valley Council, phone 6261 8530 on weekdays between 8.15am and 5pm.

Reader's letter: Willow Court fence

AFTER witnessing last Thursday's Council meeting and sitting through the defeat of Cr Bester's motion to erect a permanent fence around wards D, E, F, & G, I have completely lost faith in the ability of the Council to protect or manage Willow Court.  Shame on all Councillors who voted against this motion.

Anne Salt

Wade's cricket tips

AFTER their easy win in round 18 over New Norfolk, Molesworth Cricket Club will be looking to do the same tomorrow (Saturday) to earn another crack at Sorell in the Southern Cricket Association grand final on March 24. My tip is New Norfolk, just, with Rice to post a big score for New Norfolk and Dean King to take a bag of wickets for Molesworth.


In 4th Grade it should be Bushy Park comfortably, with Mitchell Crosswell using his pace and having a day out with the Kookaburra and Dylan Grant making a big score.

WADE GLEESON

Speedway Saturday

IT'S southern speedway night again tomorrow (Saturday), with a big progam at the Hobart International Speedway, Sorell Creek. The rundown includes Super Sedans, Tassie Sixes, AMCAs, Lightning Sprints, Junior Sedans and the Bombers Caravan Derby.

Council meeting reactions

IT was a long night at the monthly Derwent Valley Council meeting yesterday, with debate over Willow Court security and development extending over two hours. One member of the public walked out in apparent disgust over the Willow Court debates, and all but two members of the gallery left once the agenda moved on to other matters.

Councillors passed four of the nine Willow Court motions put forward by Councillor Damian Bester but his proposals for permanent security fencing were defeated, as was his move for the council to apologise for its handling of the historic site over the last decade.

The council also approved a recommendation that the public in future be excluded from council workshops after the first 30 minutes. The only concession is that the workshops will once again be advertised publicly. This was proposed by Cr Judy Bromfield, who said her objection to the presence of the public at last week's Willow Court workshop was that not all members of the public knew about it because the workshop was not advertised.

The evening wrapped up at 11pm after a closed meeting. Debate may have gone on for longer, but for two "gag motions" moved by Cr Tony Nicholson during the night.

Cr Bester's comments about the meeting have been posted on his website at damianbester.com

Other comments related to the council meeting can be read at the Save Willow Court Facebook page

Any person (councillors included) wishing to submit their own comments about any aspect of the meeting for publication here is welcome to email newnorfolknews@gmail.com

Don't let the door hit you on the way out

FURTHER restrictions on public participation at council workshops will be considered at this week's Derwent Valley Council meeting. A written report proposes that only the first 30 minutes of the monthly workshop be open to the public.

Workshops were introduced by many councils around the state in an attempt to circumvent the "open meeting" provisions of the 1993 Local Government Act. A revision of the Local Government Meeting Regulations gave workshops official status but no indication as to whether they were open to the public or closed. The Derwent Valley Council took the view that they were "closed".

In 2009 the ousting of the former mayor and the election of several new councillors led to the council deciding to advertise its workshops and open them to the public. This lasted about a year, until late 2010 when the majority of councillors decided to cease the advertising, reportedly to save money. Despite the lack of advertising, workshops remained open but the occasional attendance by members of the public has not sat well with some councillors. This was evident at last week's workshop on Willow Court, when the mayor suggested the public should sit in the rear rather than at the table. Another councillor grumbled about the presence of the public and asked who had invited them.

The recommendation to further exclude the public from workshops is contained in the report of a working party which had been formed to improve openness and transparency at the council. Instead, it decided against a committee system; indicated councillors people may be paid to serve on an audit committee if one is established in the future; and proposes to close workshops after 30 minutes.

CORRECTION: Readers please note the amendment above, rectifying an error with respect to membership of the future audit committee. A review of the Auditor-General's recommendations of late 2011 makes it clear his preference is for independent members in this role.

Cricket semi-finals

AFTER an excellent win over the Marquis Tigers on Saturday at Boyer Oval, Bushy Park is now one win away from a grand final berth in 4th Grade of the Southern Cricket Association. The Tigers won the toss and elected to bat, hitting up a good score of 10 for 221 off 48.1 overs (33 extras). In reply Bushy Park had little trouble reaching 5 for 224 off 46.1 overs (28 extras).

Bushy Park batting: Shaun Fenton 77 runs, Mitch Crosswell 72 not out, Nick Fenton 35. Bushy Park bowling: Nick Fenton 5 for 52 off nine overs, Mitch Crosswell 2 for 29 off 8.1 overs, M. Frichol 1 for 40 off 10 overs, Andrew Smith 1 for 42 off 10 overs.

Bushy Park now has a second chance at McRobies Gully after their two wicket loss in the qualifying final.

2nd Grade semi-final: New Norfolk had a comfortable win over Richmond/Cambridge at Richmond on Saturday. The home team won the toss and elected to bat, but struggled with the New Norfolk attack and was bowled out for 152 off 46.3 overs with the New Norfolk bowlers giving only nine extras away. In reply New Norfolk chased down the score with little fuss, finishing at 2 for 155 off 35.3 overs (24 extras) and setting up a qualifying final with cross-town rivals Molesworth I. New Norfolk batting: Rohan Heron 60 not out, Jamie Maddox 49no, Glen Williams 19. New Norfolk bowling: Ashley Morgan 3 for 22 off 8.3 overs, Rohan Heron 2 for 24 off seven overs (one maiden), Stewart Rice 2 for 26 off six overs, Graeme Rowlands 2 for 27 off 10 overs (two maidens).

Molesworth I went down to ladder leaders Sorell by five wickets at Sorell on Saturday. Molesworth won the toss and elected to bat, making the modest total of 10 for 149. Sorell started off badly but finished at 5 for 150 off 39.3 overs (20 extras). Molesworth batting: Nick Piuselli 46 runs, Ricky Martin 30, Nathan Eiszele 21, Mark Reggett 19, Brad Coppleman 17. Molesworth bowling: Dean King 2 for 22 off nine overs (three maidens), Nathan Eiszele 1 for 17 off 2.3 overs, Timmy Nichols 1 for 18 off seven overs, Chris Slater 1 for 26 off five overs.

Youth league cricket runners-up

Under 13s grand final: Gretna Green put up a great fight against Dodges Ferry on Sunday, going down by three wickets. On the lush Cornelian Bay ground, Gretna made the good score of 5 for 86 off its 20 overs. In reply Dodges Ferry made 7 for 92 off 20 overs, reaching Gretna's score with one over remaining.

Gretna's opening batsman Josh Hills made an excellent 22 runs (two 4s), as did Josh Farrow 22 runs (three 4s, one 6), Reece Williams 21 retired (one 4), Jack Stevenson 15 not out (two 4s).

Bowling: After doing well with the bat Josh Hills took 3 for 12 off four overs - great game Hillsy. Jack Stevenson took 1 for 11 off four overs, Josh Farrow 1 for 16 off four overs, Reece Williams 1 for 24 off four overs, Ryan Browning 1 for 29 off four overs. Mentions must also go to Ryan Browning, Zac Carnes and Josh Hills for their great catches - top job boys.

Well done team, we are all so proud of you. Your sportsmanship throughout the match was a credit to you all. You have done the club and the Derwent Valley/Central Highlands proud.  See you all at the trophy day this Saturday. 

WADE GLEESON

Australian Rower of the Year!

MOLESWORTH'S Anthony Edwards has been named the "Rower's Rower of the Year" during the national championships in Armadale, near Perth. Edwards, 38, received his award last night and went on to win gold today, as the championships continue.

Read more:
themercury.com.au
examiner.com.au
ninemsn.com.au

Reader comment of the decade

WHILE this news blog is not quite four years old, the sorry saga of the Derwent Valley Council's mis-handling of the Willow Court historic site has being going on for more than a decade.

Today, after 990 posts, 792 comments and 97,363 page views, a sadly anonymous reader of the New Norfolk News posted what is clearly the comment of the decade in relation to Willow Court: "A little less conversation, a little more action."

And to all readers and those who submit their comments, thank you very much.

Llewellyn volunteers to help

FORMER deputy premier David Llewellyn tonight expressed his willingness to serve as the chairman of a new committee to develop the Willow Court historic site, provided certain issues could be resolved between the Derwent Valley Council and the State Government.

Addressing tonight's meeting on Willow Court security issues, Mr Llewellyn said he had represented the council at a meeting with Heritage Minister Brian Wightman and Heritage Tasmania chairwoman Dianne Snowden yesterday. He said the backdrop of last weekend's F Ward fire had given the meeting a new focus.

Mr Llewellyn said Mr Wightman and Dr Snowden were sympathetic and committed to the Willow Court cause and he was confident of a positive outcome from the protracted negotiations for a memorandum of understanding between the council and the government. He had reminded the minister of the government's "pre-commitment" to Willow Court in 2010 and the fact that developing the historic site was beyond the council's capacity on its own.

Mr Llewellyn said he had agreed to chair a yet-to-be established new Willow Court committee on a voluntary basis, provided the outstanding issues between the council and government were resolved. "I am committed to Willow Court," he said. "This is a signifcant site that pre-dates Port Arthur and to hear the news of the fire was very disappointing."

Councillor James Graham expressed his confidence that with Mr Llewellyn's involvement and the goodwill of all involved, Willow Court would soon be moving forward.

Willow Court fire issues discussed

A MEETING at the Derwent Valley Council tonight found few answers to the problem of security at the Willow Court historic site. The special workshop was convened in the wake of the destruction of one of the 1930s buildings at the site last weekend.

Mayor Martyn Evans said police and fire representatives had been invited to the meeting and he welcomed New Norfolk Fire Brigade chief Colin Triffitt and second officer Peter Brazendale. However, the mayor said Tasmania Police had decided not to be represented as the matter was "too political". Councillor Damian Bester said this was a great disappointment as the purpose of the meeting was to consider ways to protect the historic site, not to discuss politics.

There were several members of the public present and this did not sit well with some councillors. Mr Triffitt gave a description of the weekend's fire and in response to questions said alarms and a sprinkler system were the only real solution to the fire risk at the historic site. He noted that these were once in place but were no longer operational and a new installation would be expensive.

Mr Triffitt said fires at the Willow Court site were difficult, no matter when and where they occurred. The buildings were old and dilapidated and posed a risk to the safety of firefighters. Coincidentally, a training exercise had been conducted some weeks ago in F Ward, the building that was destroyed last weekend.

Deputy mayor Barry Lathey commended the fire brigade's attitude to the safety of its members, but expressed concern about the organisation's rescue role. A former fire chief, he said the brigade should not stand by and watch a building burn when there may be people inside. Mr Triffitt acknowledged Cr Lathey's experience and said the fire brigade did not shirk from its rescue responsibilities, but the safety of its firefighters was paramount.

Willow Court Working Party member Simon Rolfe asked whether there was enough water on site and Mr Triffitt said although this had improved in recent times, the brigade had not been informed of the site of the new fire hydrants. Council general manager Stephen Mackey said this was the responsibility of Southern Water.

Mr Triffitt said the fire service was developing an emergency management plan for the historic site. Cr Bester commended the brigade on its efforts and for preventing the fire from spreading to adjoining buildings. This was echoed by Heritage Tasmania director Pete Smith who was also in attendance.

Cr Evans said the key to resolving the issue of security at Willow Court was to have the site open to legitimate users as soon as possible.

Reader's letter: the Business Alliance

SOME news in regard to what the New Norfolk Business Alliance has been doing in recent times and promotions planned for the near future. For people who do not know, this group promotes New Norfolk and district with funds raised via a levy on the business operators within the CBD of New Norfolk plus matching funds from the Derwent Valley Council.

Through the month of December a television advertisement was run on a number of stations encouraging the public to shop in New Norfolk. Through January and February a broader television advertisement promoted the Derwent Valley as a great place to live or visit. Now through March our generic television advertisement will again be run, with the inclusion of a banner mentioning the Derwent Valley Autumn Festival due on the New Norfolk Esplanade on April 1.

Finally and for the first time we are trying some "street music" in New Norfolk to add some musical interest for locals and visitors. The first street music performance by Les Coq Incroyables will be outside the post office in New Norfolk from 10am to 1pm on Saturday, March 24, followed by other performances from 10am-1pm on April 14, 21 and 29.

The performance on April 14 will also be accompanied by a mini-festival with even more music on Arthur Square. This mini-festival is being arranged by Jaala Lacey.

RAY WILLIAMS

New Norfolk Business Alliance

Wade's cricket tips

PREVIEWS of this weekend's Southern Cricket Association finals matches involving teams from the Derwent Valley:

2nd Grade: After their good win Molesworth will take on Sorell at Sorell for a spot in the grand final. In their last encounter Sorell came out on top by 71 runs at Boyer Oval. I'm tipping an upset with the Molesworth boys to get up by 1 run/wicket! with new player Ben Eyles to post a big score.

New Norfolk's attempt to keep the dream alive will continue when they play Richmond/Cambridge. The two last meet in round 15 with New Norfolk winning by a staggering 200 runs. In that match Rohan Heron made the perfect 100. My tip: New Norfolk easily again, with Graeme "Snowy" Rowlands to use his experience and take a bag of wickets.

4th Grade: Bushy Park go back to the drawing board and take on Marquis Tigers. The two last clashed in round 15 with Bushy winning by 108 runs. Dylan Grant topped-scored that day with 64 runs and M. Frichol took 3 for 20 off 7.2 overs. My tip is Bushy Park to make amends from last weekend's loss and win comfortably with Damien Madden and Nick Fenton playing a big part.

Good luck to all the clubs from the Valley, we are all behind you.

WADE GLEESON

Exhibition remembers Willow Court

AN exhibition of photographs from New Norfolk's Willow Court and Royal Derwent complex will open to the public this Friday following an official opening on Thursday night. Titled For the Fallen; in Memoria, the exhibition features the work of photographer Claire Needham.

"This photographic collection of images, taken at the site of the abandoned Willow Court and the Royal Derwent complex in New Norfolk, is an expansion of my previous exhibition If Walls Could Talk… (Entrepot, 2007)," Claire said.

"Since the site's closure in 2001, the buildings have been vandalised, broken and burnt regularly; subsequently many of the buildings are now demolished. The images in For the Fallen; in Memoria, have captured the passage of time and the wear of years of this immensely significant, yet ignored complex," she said.

"Once a bustling hub of activity, the RDH is now in varying grades of dilapidation, degradation but little restoration; the very brickwork has become transient and ephemeral."

The exhibition is open from March 9-25 at the Rosny Barn, Rosny Farm, Rosny Hill Rd, Rosny. The opening hours are 11am-4pm from Tuesday to Friday, and noon-4pm on weekends.

Fore more information visit www.claireneedham.com

Garden open day

THERE will be an open day at the St Matthew’s Community Garden this Saturday from 10am-4pm. The garden is at the rear of the St Matthew’s Anglican Church in Bathurst St, New Norfolk.

There will be plants for sale and morning tea will be available. Look out for the giant strawberry promoting the event on the day.

Southern Cricket Association finals

Qualifying final, 2nd Grade: Molesworth I moved a huge step closer towards a grand final berth thanks to a win over Richmond/Cambridge. Molesworth made 289 for the loss of eight wickets from 50 overs. Opening batsman Bradley Coppleman was run out with the score of 111. Nathan Eiszele gave great support with a well made 43 while Ben Eyles 28 and Ricky Martin 24 also did their bit. There was a staggering 46 extras. In reply Richmond/Cambridge was never in the hunt, being bowled out for 191 off 36.3 overs (22 extras). The Molesworth attack gave very little to their opposition with Ricky Martin capturing three wickets while Ben Eyles and Tim Nichols picked up two each. Richmond/Cambridge bowling: B. Douglas 2 for 32 off six overs, B. Wakefield 2 for 63 off 10 overs (two maidens), J. Wright 1 for 38 off seven overs, J. Griggs 1 for 49 off 10 overs, A. Bennett 1 for 65 off nine overs. Richmond/Cambridge batting: J. Wright 70, A. Bennett 38, B. Douglas 15, B. Douglas 11, J. Field 10. Molesworth bowling: Ricky Martin 3 for 25 off six overs, Ben Eyles 2 for 19 off 4.3 overs, Tim Nichols 2 for 22 off six overs (one maiden), Chris Slater 1 for 11 off four overs, Nathan Eiszele 1 for 71 off eight overs.

Elimination final: New Norfolk kept its finals hopes a live with an excellent win over Rokeby at Abbotsfield Park. New Norfolk won the toss, elected to bat and hit up the great score of 6 for 269 off 50 overs (38 extras). In reply Rokeby put up a good fight only to be bowled out for 222 off 44.2 overs (18 extras). New Norfolk batting: Ashley Morgan 55, Jamie Maddox 39, Glen Williams 33, Chris Ashcroft 28, Stewart Rice 28, Leigh Berry 25 not out, Jamie Hill 20no. New Norfolk bowling: Ashley Morgan 3 for 40 off 10 overs, Jamie Maddox 2 for 41 off 7.2 overs, Rohan Heron 2 for 57 off 10 overs, Josh Walsh 1 for 14 off two overs, Graeme Rowlands 1 for 17 off six overs (one maiden), Josh Rowlands 1 for 27 off five overs.

Qualifying final, 4th Grade: In a close match at Boyer Oval, Bushy Park suffered a two wicket loss to McRobies Gully. McRobies won the toss and sent Bushy Park in to bat. After a slow start Bushy Park got to a defendable total of 10 for 156 off 41.4 overs (23 extras). In reply McRobies scrambled its way to victory, but only just and at one stage they were 8 for 11 before finishing with 8 for 158 off 41.2 overs. Bushy Park batting: Andrew Smith 44, Terrence Pritchard 33, Shaun Fenton 29, Mitch Crosswell 10, M. Frichol 10. McRobies Gully bowling: S. Coombes 4 for 20 off 10 overs (three maidens), J. Bailey 3 for 24 off 7.4 overs (two maidens), H. Thomas 2 for 48 off nine overs, R. Mazengarb 1 for 14 off seven overs (one maiden). McRobies Gully batting: B. Hardaker 67, G. Cannan 48. Bushy Park bowling: Mitch Crosswell 3 for 15 off 10 overs (three maidens), Dylan Grant 2 for 41 off eight overs, Terrence Pritchard 1 for 28 off 8 overs (one maiden), M. Frichol 1 for 32 off nine overs (one maiden).

Willow Court fire update

Starting the demolition of F Ward

THERE has been a partial demolition of Willow Court's F Ward this afternoon to allow greater access to the still-smoldering building.

An excavator arrived on scene early this afternoon to allow the fire brigade to "punch a hole" in the eastern wing of the building. It is the brigade's policy not to enter buildings at Willow Court and the former Royal Derwent due to the extensive damage done by vandals in the 12 years since the hospitals closed.

The partial demolition has allowed greater access to the underfloor and roof space of the building, which has suffered major damage in the fire which is thought to have started late last night.

Fire investigators discovered several items which have have been forwarded to Tasmania Police forensic officers for potential fingerprint and DNA evidence.
 

The partial demolition has allowed greater access to the fire at F Ward, Willow Court