Victorian wins short course

Darren Lapthorne

VICTORIAN rider Darren Lapthorne was the winner of today's drastically shortened Launceston to New Norfolk Classic. Deteriorating weather conditions in the central highlands last night forced the organisers to eliminate the tough Poatina hill climb and start the race in Bothwell for a 65km run to New Norfolk.


Winner Lapthorne had been looking forward to the chance to attack the brutal mountain stage and was disheartened when it was excluded from today’s course due to dangerous conditions. Despite the disappointment, he was delighted to win the shorter Bothwell to New Norfolk course. “Every race is important and I think this race will become quite a big race in the future,” he said. “It really is an honour to be on the honour roll and you never complain when you have a win.”

The decision to alter the course was made last night after roads from the Poatina Village to the Great Lake area were closed because they were covered in snow. Rather than the 208km trek, riders completed a 65km journey from Bothwell to New Norfolk. “I was disappointed because the longer the race, the better for me,” Lapthorne said. “I thought it was going to be a day for the sprinters but there were still a few good climbs in there, so
the terrain made the race hard enough.”

A leading group of about 15 riders made a move early, stretching the gap to more than two minutes approaching the halfway mark of the race. “We only had three guys in there – myself, Rhys (Pollock) and Floris (Goesinnen),” Lapthorne said. “We thought that the only way to win was to get away. I attacked with about five kilometres to go with Nathan Earle. With about three kilometres to go, I went and had a good run to the finish.”

29-year-old Lapthorne’s triumph meant he firmed as favourite for the Tour of
Tasmania, which starts in Hobart on Tuesday with a team time trial to the top of Mount Wellington. “I felt pretty good today and I think it was important for our team and me to have a good day,” the 2007 national road champion said. “(The Tour of Tasmania) is the race to win this year. It was good for the confidence to get this win.”

Rounding out the podium today were Nathan Earle and Jai Crawford, with the former winning the King of the Mountains while the sprint champion was Peter Loft. The B Grade champion was Tasmanian Ben Grenda while Joshua Prete clinched C Grade and the top rider in the under 23 category was Trent Derecourt.

The six-day Tour of Tasmania will showcase seven municipalities – Hobart, Derwent Valley, Central Highlands, Meander Valley, Central Coast, Burnie and Devonport. The brand new Derwent Valley stage from New Norfolk to Strathgordon, starting at 9.30am.

• Video highlights from the classic will be available at http://nationalroadseries.subaru.com.au/

Molesworth community celebration

ABOUT 50 people attended today's official opening of the new playground at the Molesworth Recreation Ground. There were local children and their parents as well as representatives of the Molesworth Cricket Club, along with Dick Adams MHR, Michael Polley MHA, Tim Morris MHA, Craig Farrell MLC and their partners, and mayor Martyn Evans, deputy mayor Barry Lathey and Councillor James Graham.

Molesworth Recreation Ground Committee chairwoman Sue Farley welcomed everyone and thanked those who had helped to obtain the grants that funded the recent developments. Cr Evans Martyn asked Betty Beament to assist him with cutting of the ribbon to declare open the new playground and bike track open. Mike Farley and Bob Bradshaw manned the barbecue and there was a great cake depicting the recreation ground.

Story and pictures from Ngaire Glover

Snow forces bike race change

COMMUNIQUE FROM LAUNCESTON TO NEW NORFOLK CLASSIC DIRECTOR JOHN CRAVEN

Because of snow-covered roads in the Poatina region, the course for tomorrow’s Launceston to New Norfolk Classic has been modified substantially.

Road authorities today shut down the section of road to two-wheel drive vehicles from the Poatina Village to the Great Lake area because of hazardous conditions. Police advice tonight is that uncertain weather and thick snow would create a potentially dangerous surface for cyclists.

The race will now be conducted from Bothwell to New Norfolk, starting at the Bothwell Hotel at noon – a distance of 75km.

A meeting of all officials, team managers, etc will be held in the Bothwell Hotel at 11am.

Under 23 riders will be eligible for overall honours, in addition to contesting their special under 23 section.

The simplest way to travel to Bothwell is down the Launceston-Hobart main highway, turning right at Melton Mowbray and following the signs to Bothwell. A conservative drive of two hours and 30 minutes.

I am sorry for the 11th hour changes to this event but the weather, regrettably, is beyond Caribou’s control.

The enforced alterations will help honour our commitments to the riders, teams, sponsors, media and the general cycling fraternity.

Thank you and kind regards,

John Craven

Director

Council quick with the refunds

THE Derwent Valley Council was quick to hand out the money after deciding to waive the fee for a footpath occupancy licence in New Norfolk. For a number of years the council has required shopkeepers to apply for a permit if they wish to put items such as signs, tables and chairs on the footpath.

At the monthly meeting on September 20, the majority of councillors endorsed Cr Chris Lester's proposal to provide the footpath licences for free this year, and to review the fee in the next budget process.

"In recent weeks council has been requesting the renewal of footpath occupancy licences," Cr Lester said in a written motion on notice. "Many of the businesses have spoken to me saying that business over the last couple of years has been extremely slow, and that any further impost even a small one such as that charged for the licence is one they can ill afford," he said. Cr Lester said he believed the impact on the council budget would be in the order of $1800.

In seconding the motion, Cr Wayne Shoobridge pointed out that the proposal was only to waive the fee. Shopkeepers would still be required to apply for a licence if they wished to use the footpath for business purposes. Councillors Judy Bromfield and Damian Bester opposed the proposal, saying the fee should be reviewed by the council's planning department and brought to the next budget process. The motion was carried, six votes to two, and businesses that had already paid the fee received their refund cheques in the mail this week.

Surprise for actors at Ellendale

Actors Chris Cornish, Colin Dean and  Judith Cornish on stage.

THERE were pleasing numbers at the Ellendale Hall last Sunday for the premiere of a short play commissioned for the inaugural Tiger Trail Festival.

Earning Your Stripes – the Search for the Tasmanian Tiger was written and performed by Judith and Chris Cornish with Colin Dean.

There were three performances last Sunday and Mr Cornish said there was scope for the play to travel to other venues.

The play culminated in a monologue by Colin Dean, in which his character recalled an encounter with New Norfolk-based tiger researcher Col Bailey. The performers were unaware that Mr Bailey was in the audience and were pleasantly surprised when he made himself known afterwards.

Tyga trivia

COMMUNITY radio station Tyga FM will hold a trivia night at the New Norfolk Golf Club at 7pm on October 19.

Cyclists bound for New Norfolk

A RECORD number of entries has been received for this weekend's Launceston to New Norfolk Classic, which has been described as Australia's most spectacular and challenging one-day bike race. The fourth running of the 208km race will be held this Sunday, starting from the Country Club Casino Tasmania, at 9am. Some 76 competitors have been confirmed, up from the previous record of riders last year.

The classic achieved instant notoriety in its inaugural staging in 2009 when only seven riders outlasted brutally tough conditions to complete the exceptionally challenging course. The race was a triumph for Tasmania's Bernard Sulzberger who went on to win the Tour of Tasmania held a few days later.

Ballarat's Patrick Shaw slogged to victory in the 2010 classic, before winning the Scody Cup, Australia's most prestigious road cycling series. After a thrilling finish, last year's honors went to Steele Von Hoff. At the time, Von Hoff - who has since advanced to the international stage - described the victory as the biggest and most important of his career.

After Departing Launceston, the classic follows a course through Longford, Cressy, Poatina, Arthur's Lake, Steppes, Bothwell, Hollow Tree, Rosegarland, Gretna, Hayes and Lawitta before finishing in New Norfolk around 2pm, opposite the visitor information centre.

There will be 13 intermediate sprints and seven hill climbs along the route. Like last year, the event will offer special incentives to women and to male under 23 riders. Sections for the under 23 men and open women will be conducted over 143km from Launceston to Bothwell.

• Race website

Molesworth community celebration

Maydena school to close

EDUCATION minister Nick McKim has today announced that Maydena Primary School will "merge" with Westerway Primary School, effectively closing at the end of this year.

• The Mercury newspaper has the story here.
• ABC News has the story here.

EDUCATION MINISTER'S MEDIA STATEMENT

First Schools to Amalgamate Under Transition Fund

Monday, September 24, 2012
Nick McKim MHA
Minister for Education and Skills

The Minister for Education and Skills, Nick McKim, today announced the first two schools to voluntarily amalgamate under the Government's School Transition Fund initiative. Mr McKim said that following a decision made by the Maydena School Association for their school to amalgamate with the Westerway Primary School on the Westerway site in 2013, the Maydena School will close at the end of 2012.

"In this year's State Budget, the Government established a $3.5 million School Transition Fund to encourage innovation within school communities who wished to co-locate, amalgamate, close or explore other options relating to their future," Mr McKim said.

"The Maydena school community and staff have been discussing the issue of educational provision against a declining enrolment since the beginning of this year. The School Transition Fund presented them with an opportunity to strengthen the quality of their children's education into the future. The Westerway School community is very excited and looks forward to working with the Maydena school community to further strengthen the education provision for all students."

The Principal of Maydena Primary School, Ben Richardson, said the school community and staff see the amalgamation as being in the best educational and social interests of students. Mr McKim said that he had informed the Australian Government of the amalgamation.

"Representatives from the Maydena School Community and the Derwent Valley Council will be invited to meet with the Department of Education to discuss the possible future use of the school hall and playground equipment that was provided by funding from the Building Education Revolution. "I would like to congratulate both school communities on being so proactive and consultative in supporting their children's learning into the future," he said.

Mr McKim said that the Department of Education has worked with the Maydena school community and has agreed to a number of requests. These included:

• funding of new school uniforms for the Maydena students;
• the continuation of the Launching into Learning Program at Maydena for 2013;
• the relocation and display of the Maydena School historical items at Westerway; and
• ensuring that there is support for students, staff and parents throughout the transition process.

Mr McKim said that after meeting costs associated with the Maydena School Association's requests, net savings of nearly half a million dollars over next the next three years will be achieved.

Gretna Juniors pad up on Tuesday

THE Gretna Cricket Club will be fielding Under 13s, Under 15s and Under 17s teams in the 2012-13 Cricket Tasmania Youth League Competition. The season is due to start on October 28.  The Under 13s will be coached by Darren Stevenson and the Under 15s by Owen Browning. The Under 17s coach is still to be named.

A registration and training session will be held at 4.30pm this Tuesday, September 25, at the Gretna Sportsground.  Further training sessions will be as follows: Under 13s every Friday at 4.30; Under 15s & Under 17s every Tuesday at 4.30pm.

The Registration fee for the 2012-13 season will again be $30. This covers insurance, affiliation fees, cricket equipment and trophies. Playing shirts cost $35 and hats $15. If you have more than two children wishing to play with the Gretna juniors, you will only be required to pay for the first two. Any additional children will be free. The $30 does not have to be paid on the registration day, but if you are able to, it would be much appreciated by the club.

If your child is unable to attend the first training session and registration day, just give me a call and I will add them to the list. This will help as the teams need to be nominated by October 2.

ELIGIBILITY: Players wishing to participate in the Cricket Tasmania Youth League competition must be under the specified age as at September 1, 2012, for each age group. For example, if your child turned 15 before September 1, he or she would need to play in the Under 17 team. It is recommended that children be at least 10 before playing in the Under 13s but if you think your child is capable of playing in this age group, please feel free to bring him or her along. If your child is too old for an age group and you feel he/she should play back, I can request a dispensation to Cricket Tasmania. They will take into account how old your child is and how many players we have for that age group.

All games are played on a Sunday, with the U/13s starting at 9am and finishing at noon. The U/15s and U/17s are from 12.30-5.30pm. The U/13s play nine players a side and use the 20/Twenty rules (20 overs). The U/15s and U/17s field 11 players a side under normal rules (40 overs).

Like last season, we will be working with Glenora District High School to run a MILO in2CRICKET program for boys and girls aged 5 to 10 years. The Gretna Cricket Club is an equal opportunity club that strongly encourages both boys and girls to participate.

WADE GLEESON

Gretna Cricket Club

Junior Development Officer

Phone: 0429 704 677

Email: wadegleeson@live.com.au

Festival broadcast makes history

Nigel Tomlin and Steve Halloran

ONE of the lesser-known highlights of this weekend's inaugural Tiger Trail Festival in the Upper Derwent Valley occurred in Ellendale today. A team from community radio station Tyga FM travelled up from New Norfolk to conduct the organisation's first outside broadcast.

The crew found shelter from the rain in the lychgate opposite the Ellendale Hall and presented a two-hour program hosted by Steve Halloran. One of Steve's guests was local innovator Nigel Tomlin who has built his own mini-hydro electric scheme in Ellendale.

Congratulations to all involved in organising the Tiger Trail Festival and those who supported it over the weekend.

Tiger Festival brings home the bacon

TOURISM Minister Scott Bacon has congratulated Derwent Valley businesses and community members involved in the three-day Tiger Trail Festival which started yesterday. Mr Bacon said the event capitalised on the international exposure received through the movie The Hunter, along with the district's ties to the Tasmanian tiger.

"One of Tasmania's strengths is our close-knit communities, and I am always pleased to see local businesses and community groups join together to highlight what is unique about their particular area," Mr Bacon said. "Creating a festival that celebrates the Derwent Valley's connections to the Tasmanian tiger while showcasing the region's many attractions is a great way to encourage people to visit the region," he said.

"Over the next couple of days, we'll see 30 events at 25 venues - events that will give people the chance to partake of some of the Derwent Valley's fine food and wine and learn more about the region through tours of the area. For Tasmanians who have never been to the Derwent Valley, I'd encourage them to head to the region this weekend and spend some time enjoying the activities on offer for the Tiger Trail Festival."

The Tiger Trail Festival runs until Sunday with events in Plenty, Bushy Park, Westerway, Fentonbury, Ellendale, National Park, Maydena, Strathgordon and Hayes. Further information is available through the festival website at www.tigertrailfestival.com.au and on Facebook at www.facebook.com/TigerTrailFestivalTasmania2012   

Who ya gonna call?

MORE than 300 people have been following live updates on Facebook and YouTube tonight as Team Paranormal Australia conducts an overnight investigation at Willow Court. The team appears to be visiting some of the privately-owned buildings on the historic site. Earlier this week they investigated Hobart's Penitentiary Chapel and the Drunken Admiral restaurant. This is not the locally-based Australian Paranormal Investigation Unit.

• https://www.facebook.com/TeamParanormalAustralia
• http://www.youtube.com/user/TeamParanormalAus

Forest turmoil's terrible toll

Will Hodgman MHA at New Norfolk

SUICIDES, broken marriages and separated families were among the human costs of the ongoing turmoil in the forest industry, Central Highlands mayor Deirdre Flint said at New Norfolk on Tuesday night. About 150 people were at the New Norfolk District Football Clubrooms for the latest of Liberal leader Will Hodgman's community forums.

Central Highlands mayor Deirdre Flint said businesses in her municipality had lost $8 million in the forestry downturn and the social impact extended to two suicides, relationship breakdowns and fathers being forced to leave their families behind in the search for work interstate. Community member Kelly Wilton said families had put their lives on hold, in some cases seeing their fathers only once every six weeks. Derwent Valley mayor Martyn Evans said there seemed to be no concern for people in the regions while the protracted negotiations continued in the quest for "peace in the forests".

Mr Hodgman said the Liberals believed there were opportunities for the forest industry rather than shutting it down and he endorsed New Norfolk businessman Ray Williams' call to legislate to prevent protestors disrupting people going about their work.

Mr Hodgman drew attention to the empty chair he had set aside for a government representative. There was criticism of Labor and Green politicians for their absence from the meeting. Michael Polley MHA, Rebecca White MHA and Craig Farrell MLC were named but Rene Hidding MHA singled out New Norfolk-based Greens member Tim Morris MHA for special mention, saying he was probably at home several hundred metres away, watching X Factor on TV.

Eagles - 2012 SFL premiers

Thanks to Wade Gleeson for this photo of the victorious New Norfolk Eagles!

The comeback - the way Wade saw it

Brad Carver and Matthew Smith

Southern Football League senior grand final
By Wade Gleeson

AFTER being 44 points down mid-way through the second term against Lindisfarne in the SFL grand final on Saturday, the New Norfolk seniors looked dead and buried or in other words, gone for all money! There seemed no hope of a comeback for the team that had lost only two games for the season.

By half-time the deficit had been reduced to 24 points, but the Eagles were still nowhere near their best. Coaching staff David Adams, Dale Fenton, David Maddox and coach Matthew Smith kept their cool and went about masterminding one of the greatest come backs in grand final history. They spoke with the backmen, the onballers and the forwards at length, some one on one.

In the third term the Eagles turned the tables, applying the pressure on the Two Blues time and again. By three-quarter-time the margin had been cut to just eight points. Matthew Smith gathered his charges for his last speech as coach and what a speech it was. Smith spoke of the self-belief that was back within the group. He brought the supporters into play, gathering them around the players and asking them for a big effort also.

Smith's last words of advice to his players, which will long be remembered by many, was simply "Let's make this the greatest grand final comeback of all time". The rest is history. The Eagles did the impossible. The scenes after the game were amazing with many New Norfolk supporters spilling onto the ground to join the celebrations. The Eagles had landed! The club has now won 24 senior premierships since it formed way back in 1878.

New Norfolk 1.3  5.5  8.10  10.18 (78)
Lindisfarne     7.2  9.5  10.6  11.7 (73)
GOALS - New Norfolk: B. Booth 2, P. Jelkic 2, M. Thompson 2, J. Hayden, B. Carver, S. Hall, R. Belcher; Lindisfarne: G. Fitzgibbon 3, J. Marriott 2, D. Crawford 2, S. Proctor, M. Allison, M. Clark, S. Hobden.
BEST - New Norfolk: B. Carver, B. Wardlaw, J. Hall, S. Bonnitcha, R. Heron, R. Belcher; Lindisfarne: J. Myers, J. Ford, S. Proctor, N. Braslin, D. Clark, D. Flood.

SFL reserves premiership report

Tristen Triffett

By WADE GLEESON
COMING from the elimination final to make it to the big one was one thing, but to actually win it was another, and thats exactly what the New Norfolk reserves did on Saturday and it was also against the team that thrashed them in last year's grand final. Going in as underdogs, New Norfolk continued on with their great form that saw them cruise through the finals.

Leading at every change, the Eagles made every opportunity count. Best on ground Tristen Triffett played an excellent game taking many telling marks all round the ground and even snared himself a goal. Aaron Papera and Luke Browning were unlucky to miss out on playing in the senior grand final team and gave a great display of how to play the game. Their attack on the footy was second to none as was the case with the experienced Josh Kelly whose ability to win the hard ball was a telling factor all day - he found a way to clear the footy every time.

Mark Cashion showed why he won the SFL reserves goal kicking this year, bagging five majors in typical full forward tradition. His leading and strong marking was a pleasure to watch and it was even better when he was teaming up with brother Chris. The win is a real credit not only to the team but to also to coach Jon Murray and his staff. Jon made it a real double when he went on to play in the senior team's nail-biting win!

The reserves have won 10 premiership now, and since the club entered the SFL in 2000 they have played in seven grand finals for four premierships (2000, 2004, 2009 and 2012). All have been against Kingborough except for 2004 which was against Clarence.


New Norfolk   2.2   3.5   6.10   7.11 (53)
Kingborough    1.3   3.3   3.4    5.8   (38)

GOALS - New Norfolk: M. Cashion 5, T. Triffett, B. Purkiss; Kingborough: N. Townsend 2, C. Jackson, K. Shaw, B. Stanway.
BEST - New Norfolk: T. Triffett, A. Papera, J. Kelly, L. Browning, P. Ling, M. Cashion; Kingborough: S. Morrison, R. Rinaldi, D. Cornish, J. Booth, S. Dineley, C. Jackson.

Take the tiger trail this weekend

FINAL preparations are being made for the inaugural Tiger Trail Festival this weekend. “With over 30 events, at 25 venues across three days we are very excited about the Tiger Trail Festival,” organising committee member Anne Niven said. “There’s something for everyone, a mix of free and ticketed events stretching from Plenty and Hayes through to Bushy Park, Ellendale, Westerway, Maydena and Strathgordon," she said.

“The community has really been behind this idea, and we’ve had great support from a number of sponsors including Derwent Valley Council, Forestry Tasmania, Craig Farrell MLC, Destination Southern Tasmania, Tiger Airways and Tourism Tasmania and Cr Damian Bester," Ms Niven said. “People coming to events have the chance to win a $1000 travel voucher, courtesy of Tiger Airways, by entering a photo they have taken at one of the events for our Facebook competition.  Details are at the events and on the Facebook page – Tasmanian Tiger Trail Festival."

The Tiger Trail Festival was inspired by the movie The Hunter, and there will be screenings of the movie at selected venues over the weekend. There will also be markets, open gardens, a comedy quiz night, a specially commissioned play, walks, wine and beer tasting, tours available to Adamsfield, the Eagles Eyrie and Gordon Dam and lots for the kids including learning to fish and play cricket as well as a Tiger Hunt.

“We are aiming to attract locals and visitors alike to our beautiful area to get a taste of what we have to offer here. There’s plenty to see and do, and some great accommodation on offer,” Mrs Niven said. "With this mix of events, it really is something for everyone to enjoy."

For more information see this week's issue of the Derwent Valley Gazette or visit www.tigertrailfestival.com.au for the full list of events and attractions as well as accommodation options for those coming from out of the area.

Take the trail to HAYES

Tiger Trail Festival
Hayes

Two Metre Tall Farm Bar

• This Saturday and Sunday: noon to 5pm, bring a picnic
• This Sunday from 4pm: Tiger Trail Festival official closing event with a bonfire

www.tigertrailfestival.com.au
https://www.facebook.com/TigerTrailFestivalTasmania2012

Take the trail to STRATHGORDON

Tiger Trail Festival
Strathgordon

 Gordon Dam Wall

• Self-guided walks anytime
• This Saturday and Sunday: abseiling with Aardvark Adventures from $75 bookings recommended. Ph 6273 7722. www.aardvarkadventures.com.au

Lake Pedder Chalet www.lakepedderchalet.com.au

• This Saturday and Sunday: 2-4pm Tiger Afternoon Tea
• This Saturday from noon and all day Sunday: Lake tours with captain Kim
• Angling, family friendly activities and historical display presented by Lake Pedder Angling Club.  Information and bookings ph 6280 1166

Gordon Power Station underground tours

• This Saturday: 9.30am, 11.30 and 2pm  depart Lake Pedder Chalet, $10 adults, $5 children (booking sessential) www.lakepedderchalet.com.au/
  www.facebook.com/pages/Lake-Pedder-Chalet/417547978275396

www.tigertrailfestival.com.au
https://www.facebook.com/TigerTrailFestivalTasmania2012

Take the trail to MAYDENA

Tiger Trail Festival
Maydena

Giants’ Table & Cottages (bookings essential) www.GiantsTable.com.au

• This Friday: 6-8pm special dinner and movie The Hunter
• This Saturday: 11am-3pm children's tiger hunt
• This Saturday: 6-10pm comedian Kevin Kopfstein, dinner and quiz
• This Sunday: 11am-3pm roast lunch and children’s tiger hunt

 
Maydena Country Cabins & Alpacas

• This Saturday and Sunday: 10.30am-5pm alpaca feeding, wool spinning, art and craft, thylacine information, tea and coffee available. www.maydenacabins.com.au/

Back to Maydena

• This Saturday: 10am-6pm reunions, wood chopping and more, Maydena RSL Club

Churchill’s Hut Tours

• This Saturday and Sunday:  9-11am, 12-2pm, 3-5pm, $40 per person.
  Pick up at Giants Table, Junee Rd. Bookings: 0417 008 422 or www.tassiebound.com.au

Eagles Eyrie Tours

• This Sunday: 10am-3pm Forestry Tasmania Adven­ture Hub Eagles Eyrie tours $10. Buses depart Maydena Adventure Hub on the hour. Last departure 2pm. Tickets $10 per person return. Bookings recommended, ph 1300 720 507 to book. Cash payments only, no EFTPOS. Please note the Maydena Adventure Hub is closed.

Rail Track Riders

• Friday, Saturday and Sunday: 10am-4pm $25 Adults, $40-$60 Family

Online Access Centre

• This Saturday and Sunday: 10am-4pm historical photos

St Boniface Church

• This Saturday and Sunday: 10am to 2pm local craft displays

Buttongrass Plains

• This Saturday and Sunday: Any time - see where iconic scenes were filmed for The Hunter movie. Stand in the footsteps of actor Willem Dafoe and lose yourself in the myth and legend of the Tasmanian tiger. Travelling  west from Maydena along Gordon River Rd about 13km past the Florentine Rd turnoff you there is a vehicle pull-off on the northern side of the road, with a "Welcome to the South West Sign". Follow the short path down past the interpretation sign.

www.tigertrailfestival.com.au
https://www.facebook.com/TigerTrailFestivalTasmania2012

Take the trail to NATIONAL PARK

Tiger Trail Festival
National Park

National Park Hotel

• This Saturday and Sunday: noon-5pm continuous screening of the movie The Hunter
• This Saturday and Sunday: 12.30-5pm free sausage sizzle.Counter meals 5.30-7pm
  

Mt Field National Park

• This Saturday and Sunday: 11am-1pm Thylacine exhibition, guided walks to Russell Falls
• This Sunday: 11am-1pm talks by author Col Bailey

www.tigertrailfestival.com.au
https://www.facebook.com/TigerTrailFestivalTasmania2012

Take the trail to ELLENDALE

Tiger Trail Festival
Ellendale

Community Hall

• This Sunday: 10.30am, 12.30pm & 2.30pm original play Earning Your Stripes - the search for the Tasmanian tiger. Admission $5 adults; children free

www.tigertrailfestival.com.au
https://www.facebook.com/TigerTrailFestivalTasmania2012

Take the trail to FENTONBURY

Tiger Trail Festival
Fentonbury

Hamlet Downs

• This Saturday and Sunday: 10am-4pm open garden, Gully Rd. Ph 6288 1212

www.hamletdowns.com/
www.tigertrailfestival.com.au
https://www.facebook.com/TigerTrailFestivalTasmania2012

Take the trail to WESTERWAY

Tiger Trail Festival
Westerway



Westerway Primary School

• This Friday: 5:30pm family dinner and dance for parents and friends of the school. Discount tickets available from Westerway Roadhouse ($25 family, $10 adult, $5 children) or at the door ($30 family, $12 adult, $8 children)

Westerway Community Hall

• This Saturday: Saturday: 9am-2pm country market

Raspberry Farm

• This Saturday: 10am-4pm open day & farm gate produce

Westerway Oval

• This Saturday: 10am-2pm junior cricket training with Tassie Tigers Cricket Team

www.tigertrailfestival.com.au
https://www.facebook.com/TigerTrailFestivalTasmania2012

Take the trail to BUSHY PARK

Tiger Trail Festival
Bushy Park

Text Kiln pond

• This Friday: 4-6pm junior fishing fun

Upper Derwent Hall

• Saturday and Sunday: 10am-2pm Bushy Park Market & historical displays

www.tigertrailfestival.com.au
https://www.facebook.com/TigerTrailFestivalTasmania2012

Take the trail to PLENTY

Tiger Trail Festival
Plenty

Kinvarra Estate

• This Saturday: 7-11am Bubbles for Breakfast $25
• This Saturday & Sunday: 10am-4pm cellar door sales

www.kinvarrawines.com.au/
www.tigertrailfestival.com.au
https://www.facebook.com/TigerTrailFestivalTasmania2012

Medal count this Friday

THE 2012 seniors and reserves grand final DVDs will be available to buy at the New Norfolk District Football Club best and fairest count on Friday night at the clubrooms in Back River Rd. These will cost $40 each and the club will benefit from the sale of the DVDs. There will be a $5 cover charge for the function, including supper. Tyga FM's Shawry and Gleeso will be hosting the night, including interviews of the premiership coaches and players. The count starts at 7pm.

SFL grand final report

By Gary Williamson
NEW Norfolk showed the football world they still have the hunger and drive to be the best when they overcame a 44 point deficit early in the second term to take control in the last half and win a much deserved Southern Football League premiership over a gallant but wasteful Lindisfarne. Final scores were 10.18 (78) to 11.7 (73).

The first term saw Lindisfarne kicking with the aid of a 3-4 goal breeze. They were on fire and a shellshocked New Norfolk could not get their hands on the football as the Two Blues kicked five goals in the first eight minutes to race away to a commanding lead. The Eagles slowed down the play later in the term but they still trailed by 37 points and needed a big second term with the breeze to get back into the game.

The Two Blues started the second term well on top and appeared too fast and slick for the Eagles and when they kicked the first goal of the term the game looked over for New Norfolk. The Eagles slowly started to work their way back into the game and kicked a further four goals to reduce the margin to 24 points at the main break but were still not playing their best football as Lindisfarne looked confident with their handy lead.

Against the breeze in the premiership quarter, New Norfolk really started to put some pressure around the stoppages and Lindisfarne started to look shaky. Instead of going through the corridor the Two Blues played wide and this dried up their scoring opportunities as the Eagles took over the aerial duels and kicked four valuable goals to reduce the margin to eight points at the main break and they appeared to have all the momentum.

The Eagles dominated the last term early on but wasted scoring opportunities with six straight behinds before a great mark and goal from a well-held Thomspon put the Eagles in front for the first time all day and they were never going to surrender the lead. They really should have won by more after dominating the second half and were brave in coming back from a big deficit.


The disappointed Lindisfarne really faltered under pressure and went away from their game plan, seeming to play safe football. They chipped the ball wide and their run and carry disappeared as they played the game on the Eagles' terms. They will have learnt from their mistakes and this will make them better prepared for next year.

Eagles big man Brad Carver played a lone hand up forward early, then steadied them in the back half in the second term. He went into the ruck for the last half and changed the game around in a dominant display and was worthy winner of the Tony Martyn Medal for best on ground. He received good support from veteran Roger Belcher after a slow start. Belcher's experience and strength was vital in the second half. The Eagles defence was solid all day with Hall, Bonnitcha and Heron keeping quiet some dangerous opponents after half time. Better players for Lindisfarne were Myers, Ford, Proctor and Braslin but these players lacked support when the pressure was applied by the victors.

SFL reserves match report

By Gary Williamson
NEW Norfolk had a big upset win over hot favourites Kingborough in the SFL reserves grand final on Saturday, eventually winning by 15 points with the final scores 7.11 (53) to 5.8 (38). The first quarter was a typical finals battle as no side could get any easy possessions. The Eagles were matching their more fancied rivals and grabbed a handy five point lead. The second term saw the Tigers slowly start to get their running game going but the Eagles defence stood firm and they still led by two points in a low scoring tight affair.

The third quarter was the term when most people thought the fitter and quicker Kingborough would pull away but the finals hardened New Norfolk really stood up. Scoring the only three goals of the quarter, the Eagles grabbed what appeared a match winning lead of 22 points at the last change. The fourth quarter saw the game really slow down. The Eagles held firm to grab a much deserved victory over a very disappointed Kingborough who surprisingly lacked spark.

Best players for the Eagles were the experienced Triffitt and Papera, who received good support from Kelly, Browning and big forward Cashion who finished with a game high five goals.

Willow Court committee finalised

THE final makeup of the Willow Court Conservation Special Committee was ratified at the last meeting of the Derwent Valley Council, confirming the members who had been selected by the independent chairman, David Llewellyn. In a report, general manager Stephen Mackey said some members had been in place early and Mr Llewellyn had since recruited further expert committee members.

"The committee had previously agreed to appoint one person from either the Friends of Frescati or Friends of Willow Court to be the community representative and at the committee meeting on the 9th August 2012 a nomination from the Friends of Willow Court Ms Anne McKinstray was appointed with the nomination from the Friends of Frescati Mr Richard Onn being appointed proxy," Mr Mackey said in his report.


The council agreed to the following list of members for the Willow Court Conservation Special Committee:

• David Llewellyn (Chairman)
• Martyn Evans (proxy - Barry Lathey)
• Dianne Snowden (ex-officio member)
• Michele Moseley (DPIPWE)
• Paul Lan (Architect)
• Tony Wright (Inland Fisheries Service)
• Jane Harrington (Port Arthur)
• Anne McKinstray (proxy - Richard Onn)

Farmer wants a night in New Norfolk

The couple arrives at Woodbridge

THE luxury hotel Woodbridge on the Derwent was featured on last week's episode of the Channel 9/WIN TV show The Farmer Wants a Wife. "Farmer Todd" from Bruny Island chose the New Norfolk landmark as the venue for a romantic date with one of his potential wives. The episode aired nationally on Wednesday and was repeated today. It can be viewed online here (select Episode 7, Part 2).

Candlelight dinner in the Pavilion at Woobridge on the Derwent

Double day for the Eagles

NEW Norfolk is celebrating a pair of premierships after winning today's Southern Football League grand final against Lindisfarne following the earlier win by the reserves in their match with Kingborough. It was a narrow victory in the senior match but a win is a win, reports Wade Gleeson. "Brad Carver was best-on-ground in his last game in the five-point win on his mum's birthday," Gleeson said.

SCORES - Quarter time: Lindisfarne 7.2.44 led New Norfolk 1.3.9
Half time: Lindisfarne 9.5.59 led New Norfolk 5.5.35
Three quarter time: Lindisfarne 10.6.66 led New Norfolk 8.9.57
Full time: New Norfolk 10.18.78 defeated Lindisfarne 11.7.73

• Mercury newspaper report

Public meeting on forestry and the future

THE future of forestry and the Derwent Valley/Central Highlands region in general will be discussed at a public meeting in New Norfolk on Tuesday night. Organised by state Liberal Party leader Will Hodgman MHA, the meeting will include a panel discussion as well as questions from the floor.

Mr Hodgman said the meeting would give a voice to people in the region. "This meeting is not just about forestry, it is about the flow-on economic and social consequences of any [government forestry] deal on families and entire communities," he said.

The panel will include Derwent Valley mayor Martyn Evans, Central Highlands mayor Deirdre Flint, Tasmanian Farmers and Graziers Association chief executive Jan Davis, timber industry advocate Kelly Wilton and members of the Tasmanian Parliamentary Liberal Party.

The public meeting will be held at the New Norfolk District Football Clubrooms at 7pm this Tuesday, September 18. The meeting is one of a series around the state, organised by the Liberal Party in response to what it calls the "government's disastrous forestry deal" and its impact on regional communities.

Willow Court events

THE annual swapmeet and market day will be held on November 18 from 9am-5pm in the grounds of Willow Court. Stall sites are available by calling Penny on 0437 126 679.

The businesses at Willow Court will also be holding a Halloween Fair from 10am on October 27-28, with stalls, music, fancy dress, face painting, sausage sizzle and more.

New Norfolk Reserves victorious

WADE Gleeson reports from KGV Oval that New Norfolk has defeated Kingborough in this afternoon's Southern Football League reserves grand final. Scores 7.11 (53) to 5.8 (38).

New Norfolk's Tristen Triffett was named best-on-ground. The senior match is due to start at 2.30pm, with New Norfolk taking on Lindisfarne.

• Mercury newspaper match preview
• Mercury article about Ben Lovell

Thompson bags William Leitch Medal

Michael Thompson

By Wade Gleeson
FEW full forwards have won the William Leitch Medal over the years, but New Norfolk's goal ace Michael Thompson took out the prestigious award with 21 votes at Monday night's count in Hobart. Thompson - who has been a goal-kicking machine this season - bagged a total of 101 goals during the roster matches and this saw him also win the SFL goal kicking award, the Colin Smith Medal. "Thommo" as he is known to his team-mates, is the16th individual from the NNDFC to win the William Leitch Medal and the club's 20th William Leitch Medallist over all.

While he has been goalless in the finals he will be looking to rectify this on his way to helping his side overcome Lindisfarne at KGV in the SFL grand final on Saturday. If this can be done, the full forward will have all three medals to his name - a rare feat that hasn't been achieved for quite some time in any competition. But I'm sure the big fella would give up both medals for another Eagles premiership any day of the week!

The reserves grand final between New Norfolk and Kinborough starts at noon while the seniors' grand final kicks off at 2.30pm. See you at the footy.

• Mercury newspaper article
• Medal count preview video

Farm diversification pays off

UPPER Derwent Valley farmer Bernard Brain was yesterday named the winner of the Diversification of the Year section of the 2012 Farmer of the Year Awards. Mr Brain runs nine enterprises on his farm at Ouse, growing poppies, cabbage seed, beef cattle, lambs and wool, canola, seed potatoes, as well as fennel, malting barley, dry peas and wine grapes.

The Tasmanian Farmers and Graziers Association (TFGA) today congratulated Mr Brain and fellow Tasmanian winner Grant Archer (Dairy Farmer of the Year following their success at the national awards presentation in Melbourne. “Grant and Bernard are role models for our industry. We are very proud of them,” TFGA chief executive Jan Davis said.

There is not much the 1000ha Rotherwood property farmed by Bernard Brain and his family has not produced since it was established in 1822. Among its quality produce, Rotherwood grapes are being used to make Arras, which is regarded as Australia’s best sparkling wine. “The fruit coming off seven to 10 year old vines is creating great interest with unique flavours in the chardonnay that veteran wine makers have not tasted before,” Mr Brain said.

Mr Brain has a degree in rural science, which has led him to focus on integrating all aspects of agro-ecology in a farming operation. “Over the last seven years I have almost achieved my aim of drought proofing the farm by irrigation infrastructure.” Irrigation has been one of the keys to success. The property has a 3800 megalitre water licence allowing its irrigation area to be expanded by 100ha to 350ha over the past seven years with a capital investment of $1.1 million.

• ABC Radio reports here and here.

SFL grand final preview

Lindisfarne v New Norfolk
By Gary Williamson

IN what promises to be one of the most exciting and closest grand finals in years, the Southern Football League's two best sides who lost only one roster game each all year will clash at KFV Oval this Saturday, with Lindisfarne taking on New Norfolk.

 The Two Blues triumphed in the second semi-final at Boyer a fortnight ago and would have gained plenty of confidence and self belief. They know if they are close all day they have the pace and fitness to really run the game right out and the large confines of KGV Oval should suit their game style. The Eagles really bounced back to their best form last weekend, easily defeating Kingborough in the preliminary final and have the chance to seek revenge and have another crack at Lindisfarne. But the Eagles know the opposition does not fear them and they have to play their best to win the game.

New Norfolk have lots of experience and these quality players will have cool heads in the opening minutes of the game and this settling period will be really telling as the nerves set in and the adrenalin starts pumping. The Eagles should have an edge in strength around the stoppages and if they can win the clearances then they should be able to create plenty of opportunities for their key forwards as Thompson and Carver will push a long way up the ground to make a contest and not allow the oppositions ruckman and easy mark across half back.

The midfield battle looks fairly even but Lindisfarne have a lot more run and they spread really quickly when they came possession and New Norfolk will have to do more homework than they did a fortnight ago. They must ensure they have their match-ups correct and not allow the opposition to create the lose man as they will chip the ball around to keep possession. Both sides have dangerous forwards but being a grand final there will be plenty of midfield pressure and the forwards will have to work hard for their goals and more importantly accuracy could play a key role as both sides will dominate periods of the game but will need to score to grab an advantage.

Lindisfarne may have an edge in pace and they will attempt to use the spaces of the Glenorchy oval to create the loose man and they also have two key forwards capable of kicking multiple goals. They also proved two weeks ago that they are prepared to really scrap the game and take on the powerful Eagles in the stoppages and contested possessions and they will use their press to really push up the ground they will probably get hurt on the rebound unless they man up more than usual. They should have learnt from their first round loss and must back themselves to get off to a good start and put some scoreboard pressure on the rivals.

In a battle of the leagues two best sides perhaps New Norfolk will strip a lot fitter with two hard finals games under their belts and they will under estimate their opponents and take the 2012 premiership but only their best effort will be good enough as the all-confident Lindisfarne are flying and an easy win would not surprise but they will have to withstand a brutal New Norfolk and the big ground will suit their style of play.

• The senior grand final will be played at 2.30pm this Saturday at KGV Oval, Glenorchy. The day starts with the colts grand final at 9.30am and the reserves at noon. A video preview can be seen here.
• Mercury newspaper article 

Reserves grand final preview

SFL Reserves grand final preview
Kingborough v New Norfolk
By Gary Williamson

KINGBOROUGH will attempt to defend last year's reserves premiership when they take on New Norfolk  who have really improved and played their best football during the finals. Kingborough went straight through and have the advantage of the bye after thrashing Lindisfarne in the second semi-final and they will go in short priced favourites, especially as their seniors lost last week and they may gain some valuable additions to their side.

The Eagles reserves were surprise winners last week with very accurate kicking and whilst they will be confident they know they will need a real team effort if the yare to take the cup. You would expect the Eagles to be competitive for most of the game but the class and ability of the tigers should see them pull away in the second half and take another flag home.

COLTS GRAND FINAL
Sorell v Brighton

IN a replay of the second semi-final Sorell who won that game by only a point again take on Brighton in which promises to be another exciting close game as both sides are very evenly matched. Sorell will be rested after a week off but this may count against them as they have had no real hard contested footy and may lack match practice. The Robins thrashed Huonville last weekend in the preliminary final and will be itching to have another crack at their arch rival. Sorell have clearly been the best side all year and the scare of the second final should of really woke them up and they should be too strong in the second half and earn a well deserved flag for their district.

Massive win catapults Eagles into grand final

By Gary Williamson

NEW Norfolk bounced back from last week’s loss at home to Lindisfarne and grabbed some revenge for last year's grand final loss when they thrashed a disappointing Kingborough in very windy conditions in the preliminary final by 68 points, kicking 13.17.95 to 3.9.27. 

The first term saw a strong swirly breeze blowing down the KGV ground mainly to the forward pocket area and Kingborough won the toss and kicked with the breeze and immediately kicked the first goal of the game. The term saw a real battle as surprising New Norfolk kept the ball on the city side of the ground and were too strong around the stoppages and kicked the next two goals to grab very handy 10 point lead a the first change. The second term saw the powerful Eagles really build on confidence and momentum and they ground out four unanswered goals to take the initiative with the breeze and grab what appeared a match winning lead of 33 points in very difficult conditions.

The third term was the only chance the Tigers had to get back into the game with the breeze but the Eagles kept them to only two goals whilst kicking one themselves against a really strong breeze and the game was well over as they lead by 23 points. The last term saw New Norfolk really finish off the game full of running as they piled on six goals and missed many easy opportunities as Kingborough gave up the chase as their season ended. 

Best players for New Norfolk were Moles who was outstanding all day and he received good support from Crane, Heron and fellow onballers Belcher and Barwick.  Special mentions to Carver and Thompson although he never kicked a goal he presented all day to keep the ball on the ground where the Eagles dominated the contested possessions. Best players for a very disappointed Kingborough were Appleton, Humphrey, Mitchell and Foale whilst Lamprill battled all day against the odds and wind up forward.

Premier praises Boyer expansion

PREMIER Lara Giddings has welcomed yesterday's news that Norske Skog would consolidate its Southern Hemisphere operations in Tasmania. Some $84 million will be invested in the Boyer Mill with the assistance of the State and Federal Governments. Ms Giddings said this was a sign of confidence in Tasmania.

"This is fantastic news for Tasmania and the people of New Norfolk who rely on the operation for jobs and economic activity," Ms Giddings said. "Norske Skog is an important part of the Tasmanian economy and this investment will ensure that it remains so for many years to come."

Ms Giddings said the Tasmanian Government would provide a $13 million loan while the Federal Government was currently undertaking due diligence on grants of $28 million.
Norske Skog will also make a significant capital contribution to convert its current newsprint operations to coated paper grades suitable for catalogues.

"Not only will this project secure Boyer's current 330 direct and 900 indirect jobs, it will create a further 100 jobs in the construction phase. The decision to consolidate operations in Tasmania is testament to Norske Skog's Tasmanian workforce and the efficiency of the Boyer plant," Ms Giddings said.

"It is also a clear sign of confidence in the future of the Tasmanian economy and our forest industry, which is a major supplier to the Boyer Mill."

http://www.themercury.com.au/article/2012/09/10/359991_tasmania-news.html

Massive boost for Boyer

PAPERMAKER Norske Skog has today announced an $84 million investment at its Boyer mill near New Norfolk. The company will convert a machine at Boyer mill to the production of coated grades of paper with the support of the state and federal governments.

"We are committed to the future in Australia, and we therefore invest AUD 84 million. With substantial funding support from the Australian government, we strengthen the operations at Boyer. This will create future growth opportunities for the Norske Skog group," Norske Skog president and CEO Sven Ombudstvedt said today.

The machine conversion project will take place over the next two years to enable the production of coated paper suitable for catalogues among other things.

The company said the Federal Government would contribute $28 million in grants to help fund the project, and the State Government would provide a $13 million loan. Completion is targeted for the first quarter of 2014.

The company also announced the closure of one machine at its Tasman mill in New Zealand due to an oversupply of newsprint in the region.

Eagles blast into grand final

NEW Norfolk will meet Lindisfarne in next weekend's Southern Football League grand final after demolishing last year's premiers, Kingborough, at KGV Oval yesterday. The Mercury newspaper's report can be read here.

The SFL has today announced the program for the grand final matches, which will be played at KGV Oval, Glenorchy.

• 9.30am: Colts – Sorell v Brighton
• Noon: Reserves – Kingborough v New Norfolk
• 2.30pm: Seniors – Lindisfarne v New New Norfolk

Celebrate life in tiger country

COMMUNITY groups and businesses in the Upper Derwent Valley are banding together to celebrate the region's links with the Tasmanian tiger. The inaugural Tiger Trail Festival will be held from September 21-23, taking in the vast area from Strathgordon to Plenty, including Maydena, National Park, Westerway, Fentonbury and Ellendale. “There is so much to see, do and experience here, we decided as a group we would like to showcase what we have to offer,” organising committee spokesman Anne Niven said.

Events include an open garden at Hamlet Downs, to "Dusk to Dark" wine sampling at Kinvara Winery, a comedy and quiz night at the Giants Table and Cottages, a market and a bush dance at the Westerway Hall, a specially commissioned play at the Ellendale Hall, featuring two actors from the acclaimed movie The Hunter.  There will be a special price on trips to the Eagles Eyrie courtesy of Forestry Tasmania and walks and Tasmanian Tiger information at Mt Field National Park.

"The Hunter was part of our inspiration; it showcases our beautiful area, and has increased interest not only in the area but in the Tasmanian tiger as well.  There are a couple of venues that are also planning free viewings of  The Hunter over the weekend as well," Ms Niven said.

There festival will include both free and ticketed events, with something for everyone and plenty of entertainment for children and adults alike. Keep up-to-date with the Tassie Tiger Festival on their website at  www.tigertrailfestival.com.au and on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/#!/TigerTrailFestivalTasmania2012

Eagles v Tigers

Southern Football League preliminary final preview
By Gary Williamson

New Norfolk v Kingborough at KGV
IN a grand final replay last year's premiers Kingborough play New Norfolk in the preliminary final at KGV Oval in what promises to be a very close game this Saturday. The rivalry between these two sides continues to grow and both teams will be desperate to end the opposition's season.

New Norfolk were surprisingly defeated at home last weekend in the second semi-final by the vastly improved and well-coached Lindisfarne and they will need to regroup and get back to their best form. A bye the week before and two very easy wins leading into the finals has once again not suited the Eagles. Another hard game this weekend will really help their cause for the flag but they need to get through the in-form opposition who thrive at this time of the year.

The Tigers had plenty of bad patches through the year but have started to come right and with two big finals wins already under their belts they now have the confidence and self belief to take the game right up the Eagles as they are now  a more even side. The Tigers would have studied how Lindisfarne really closed up the game last weekend and played a well-drilled press to keep the high scoring Eagles to only seven goals and more importantly century goal kicker Thompson goalless, which proves there is a game plan that can defeat New Norfolk.

The Eagles will be fuming from last weekend and they will need to adjust their game plan and be mindful of the wide open spaces of the KGV oval. If they lose the clearance and contested possession, then the opposition will hurt them on the scoreboard. Key Tigers forward Lamprill bounced back to his best form last weekend with nine goals but will find the Eagles defence a lot harder to take contested marks and they will need to rely on their onballers to kick some goals to generate a winning score.

In a game that could go either way, perhaps the Eagles will bounce back to their best form and have another crack at Lindisfarne but the Tigers have an edge in pace and run and this ground will suit them. If the Tigers are close at three-quarter time, you would expect them to over-run the opposition.

• Mercury newspaper preview 

Tiger Trail Festival nearly here

Tiger Trail Festival

Sprechen Sie Deutsch?

NEW Norfolk's most recently opened antiques shop has closed after only a couple of months in business. A poster in the shop window expresses the owners' regrets about a lack of support but it is the final paragraph that has people talking - despite appearing to have been written in German.

Shock loss but another chance this weekend

SOUTHERN FOOTBALL LEAGUE FINALS, WEEK 2
By Gary Williamson

Second Semi Final at Boyer - New Norfolk v Lindisfarne
LINDISFARNE are now clear premiership favourites after defeating New Norfolk on their home ground yesterday by 21 points, 11.10 (76) to 7.13 (55). The first term was fairly open affair as both sides moved the ball quickly and used the wide open spaces. With seven goals kicked the game looked to be a high scoring affair as the Blues grabbed a surprise four-point lead in an even contest. The second term saw Lindisfarne really close up the game and their tackling was relentless as only three gaols were kicked for the term and although they held a two point lead it was still anyone's game as the home side were frustrated with the flooding game plan of Lindisfarne, which was working well under astute coach Goodwin.

The third term was a real struggle and in perfect conditions at New Norfolk neither side could get an advantage as only two goals were kicked. It appeared the visitors may have an edge in pace and fitness going into the last term. Lindisfarne really extended the pressure in the last term and their run and spread was superb as they piled on five goals to one and raced away to a much deserved victory and book a grand final berth.

Shell-shocked New Norfolk now have plenty of work to do and will need to adjust their game style if they meet Lindisfarne again. Best players for victors were plenty in a real team effort with Clark a standout all day all over the ground and he was well supported by Ford, Fitzgibbon with two goals along with Proctor and Flood. Forward Allison was lively all day and finished with three goals. Best players for a very disappointed New Norfolk were Horne, Crane, Triffitt and Carver and with all single goal kickers the Eagles really struggled with a flooding game style and Thompson being held goalless they could not find any other avenues. They now need to regroup for this weekend's preliminary final against arch rival Kingborough.

• Mercury match report here

First semi-final at Kingborough  - Kingborough v Dodges Ferry
KINGBOROUGH booked itself a grand final replay against New Norfolk in this weekend's preliminary final when they easily defeated Dodges Ferry by 70 points. They have hit top form at the right time of the season, kicking 17.14 (116) to 7.13 (55).