Eagles break the drought

SOUTHERN FOOTBALL LEAGUE
MATCH REPORT


THERE are a lot more smiles in the Derwent Valley tonight as New Norfolk 14.14 (98) has defeated Brighton 6.11 (47) to register the Eagles' first victory of the 2016 season at Boyer Oval today.

Is this the game that turns around the season for coach Matthew Smith and his men? They now must prepare to face the Huonville Lions next weekend in Round 6 of the SFL.



On the other hand there will be some soul searching at the Robins Nest as two rounds ago they sat in second spot on the ladder but have now slipped well away from the pack of clubs leading the way at the top of the ladder.


(Report from Southern Football League)

Sheep graziers warning

Warning to Sheep Graziers
for the Midlands, Upper Derwent Valley, South East, North West Coast and East Coast forecast districts

Issued at 3:09 pm EST on Saturday 30 April 2016.

Sheep Graziers are warned that relatively cold temperatures, rain and strong westerly winds are expected during Sunday. Areas likely to be affected include the South East forecast district and parts of the Midlands, Upper Derwent Valley, North West Coast and East Coast forecast districts. There is a high risk of losses of lambs and sheep exposed to these conditions.


The next warning will be issued by 11pm Saturday.

Sunday: road weather alert

Road Weather Alert
for Upper Derwent Valley, North West Coast, Central North, North East, Western, Central Plateau, Midlands, East Coast, Upper Derwent Valley and South East forecast districts


Issued at 3.20pm on Saturday 30 April 2016.


Reduced visibility in heavy rain will make road conditions dangerous during Sunday in parts of the North West Coast, Central North, North East, Western, Central Plateau, Midlands, East Coast, Upper Derwent Valley and South East forecast districts.


For information on any road closures, please contact your local council or the Police.


The next alert will be issued by 11pm Saturday.

Today's local footy scores

SENIORS: New Norfolk 14.14 (98) d Brighton 6.11 (47)

RESERVES: Brighton 419.15 (129) d New Norfolk 5.4 (34)

COLTS: Brighton 5.4 (34) d New Norfolk 4.2 (26)

Service centre rolling back into town

The Mobile Service Centre.

THE Federal Government's mobile service centre will make another trip to the Derwent Valley next week, stopping at New Norfolk, Ellendale and Hamilton.

This large truck with a "pop out" office travels through rural and regional communities to provide personalised face-to-face access to information and services. Staff on board the mobile service centres can provide information, assistance and support to older people, families, students, jobseekers, people with disability, carers, farmers and the self-employed.

NEW NORFOLK: Woolworths car park, George St, 9.30am-4pm on Tuesday, May 3

HAMILTON: Near Hamilton Park, River St, 1.30-4pm on  Wednesday, May 4

ELLENDALE: Near Ellendale Hall, Ellendale Rd, 9am-2pm, Thursday, May 5

Services available:

• New claims for most Centrelink payments
• Updating customer information
• Confirming customer documents and supporting information, such as certifying copies of birth certificates
• Rural payment entitlements for eligible farmers
• Medicare transactions
• Medicare registrations
• Social work support and referrals
• Self-service facilities including online accounts and mobile apps
• Free hearing health checks

Information on:

• How financial matters may impact your Centrelink payments
• Payment and service options to suit individual circumstances
• Child Support payment and service options

“I encourage local residents to come along and visit the Mobile Service Centre while it is in your area,” the Federal Member for Lyons, Eric Hutchinson said.

For itineraries and more information visit www.humanservices.gov.au/mobileoffice or call 13 23 16.

Extras wanted for TV show in New Norfolk

A sample of the type
of photo required.

CASTING agent Jane Binning is looking for people who live in the New Norfolk area to be extras in the upcoming ABC-TV comedy series Rosehaven. 

If you are aged between 40-90 years old and available between May 9 and June 24, 2016, send a photo to: erin@janebinningcasting.com.au. Be sure to hold a piece of paper in the photo that clearly states your name, age and what town you are from (see sample photo, left).

Include the following details in the email accompanying your photo: 

- Your email address 
- Contact phone number 

- Height  
- Collar/neck measurement

- Waist measurement      
- Dress size (women)

- Pant size 
- Shoe size

The casting agents say acting experience is not necessary - you just need to be reliable, patient and happy to be on camera.  

Rosehaven is an eight-part comedy series written by (and starring) Luke McGregor and Celia Pacquola.  The show is a Guesswork Television Production for ABC-TV. Produced by Andy Walker, Co-producer Fiona McConaghy. Director Jonathan Brough. Executive producers Kevin Whyte, Rick Kalowski and Brett Sleigh.

Smoky skies

SMOKE ALERT For Greater Hobart, Northern Suburbs

Issued At: 29/04/2016 7:16am

 

There is a fuel reduction burn at Breakneck Track, Wellington Park.

 

There is no fire threat to communities. There may be smoke from this fire visible around Greater Hobart and Northern Suburbs.

 

What to do:

• People with medical conditions are advised to have a personal plan for avoiding smoke from the burn.
• Advice is available from the Department of Health and Human Services website www.dhhs.tas.gov.au/peh/alerts/air/precautions or www.asthmatas.org.au/
• People traveling in the area should exercise caution if driving in smoke. Turn on your headlights and drive slowly.
• You can stay informed by monitoring the Tasmania Fire Service Website for updates at www.fire.tas.gov.au/

Injured man should get help, police say

TASMANIA POLICE
MEDIA RELEASE


Incident in Trevor Terrace, New Norfolk


Glenorchy CIB attended an incident in Trevor Terrace, New Norfolk which occurred between 5.30pm and 6pm on Wednesday 27 April 2016, where a man was seen with injuries to one or both of his hands.


Following additional enquiries conducted on Thursday 28 April 2016, Glenorchy CIB have confirmed that no offences have been committed and the man is likely to require medical attention to his injuries and are concerned for his welfare and would ask for him to contact police.


Anyone with information should call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Footy preview - Round 5

Southern Football League match preview
Round 5 - Provided by SFL League Management

New Norfolk v Brighton at Boyer, 2pm Saturday
These teams both suffered pretty serious losses in the last round. This match should see both teams playing closer to full strength, determined to get a much-needed win.

New Norfolk has the home ground advantage and will be hoping that is enough to see the Eagles through for their first win this season. Michael Thompson should be back in top form and be the barometer to sting the Eagles into action to get a much needed win to reinvigorate their season.

Brighton started the season with two impressive wins and followed with two losses. This game will be an indicator to see where Brighton will sit on the ladder in the upcoming weeks. Both teams badly need the win to advance their position on the ladder.

This match will definitely be the one to watch as both teams need to redeem themselves after the massive losses of last week.

Lindisfarne v Huonville at Anzac Park, 2pm
Huonville is going to have to give it their all to stand a chance in this match. Lindisfarne is proving the team to beat this season and is yet to lose a game.

Cygnet v Dodges Ferry at Cygnet, 2pm
These teams finished the last round with impressive wins. This game will be a tough contest with both teams fighting for a win to solidify their positions on the ladder.

Sorell v Hobart at Pembroke Park, 2pm
Last season when these two teams went head to head, Hobart prevailed for the wins and that should also be enough to motivate Sorell to give it their all this week.

Police seeking injured man

TASMANIA POLICE
MEDIA RELEASE


Between 5.30pm and 6pm on Wednesday the 27 April 2016 an incident occurred in Trevor Terrace, New Norfolk in which a male has been seen in the area with injuries to one or both of his hands. The injuries are apparent with a small amount of blood found by police in the area. 


The male was possibly driving a white van described as an older style Hiace Campervan with curtains on the windows and old style mag wheels.

A brief description of the male is being in his 40’s, un-kept appearance with dark curly hair.
Police are interested in speaking with this male to ascertain the seriousness of his injuries and his reason for being in the area at the time. 


Glenorchy CIB are investigating the matter and are contactable on 6173 2777.  Information can also be given anonymously to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Road weather alert

Road Weather Alert
For the Upper Derwent Valley, North West Coast, Central North, North East, Western, Central Plateau, Midlands, East Coast and South East forecast districts

Issued at 9:15pm on Wednesday 27 April 2016.

Slippery roads will make driving conditions dangerous during Thursday in parts of the North West Coast, Central North, North East, Western, Central Plateau, Midlands, East Coast, Upper Derwent Valley and South East forecast districts.

For information on any road closures, please contact your local council or the Police.

The next alert will be issued by 5am Thursday.

Anzac Day speech recalls New Norfolk war hero

Guy Barnett MHA speaking at
New Norfolk on Monday.

ANZAC DAY ADDRESS
By Guy Barnett MHA, Member for Lyons
Given at New Norfolk on April 25, 2016

THE Centenary of Anzac, which runs from 2014 to 2018, represents one of the most significant commemorative events in Australia’s history. During this period, Australians will commemorate 100 years of sacrifice and service by Australian servicemen and women in all wars, conflicts and peacekeeping operations.

This year, 2016, marks the 101st anniversary of the original Gallipoli landings and the birth of the Anzac story in 1915. Stories that helped forge the Australian identity and the character of our nation. The attributes demonstrated then-courage endurance mateship and sacrifice -are still relevant today.

Many important anniversaries will occur during 2016 including:

• The 100th anniversary of the Battle of Pozieres and Fromelles 
• The 75th anniversaries of the battles of Greece, Crete and the siege of Tobruk, and 
• The 50th anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan, in Vietnam.

In addition, July 2016 marks the 100 year anniversary of the formation and embarkation from Tasmania to France of the 40th battalion.

During these and other conflicts, hundreds of thousands of Australian servicemen and women would serve their country. While the stories of courage and service they created are inspiring, the cost to Australia has been, at times, devastating.

During the Great War, the flower of a generation was lost with over 60,000 killed and 156,000 wounded, gassed or captured. Two-thirds of those who served overseas were killed or wounded - a casualty rate of 65%, one of the highest of any nation in the war. Tasmania also suffered with 2432 servicemen losing their lives out of the 15,485 who enlisted during the war.

In subsequent conflicts in the Second World War, Korea, Malaya, Vietnam and the Middle East, over 40 000 Australians died on active service. Tasmanians have been active in Australia’s operations over the years including today where our men and women are serving in the middle-east in combat roles to thwart the ISIS terrorist threat in Iraq and Syria as well as in peacekeeping and humanitarian roles in the Pacific and Africa.

Tasmanians were among the first to land on the shores of Gallipoli on that first Anzac Day and have since served in all branches of the Australian Defence Force with courage and distinction.

Of the 100 Victoria Crosses granted to Australians - the highest award for bravery in war time, fourteen have been won by Tasmanians, an amazing statistic - including most recently by Burnie-born Corporal Cameron Baird VC MG in Afghanistan, one of only two Australian soldiers to receive both a Medal for Gallantry and a Victoria Cross.

Wally Brown VC DCM

But today I also want to share the story of Corporal Walter Ernest Brown known as "Wally" who was born on 3 July 1885 in New Norfolk. Wally was one of Tasmania’s 14 Victoria Cross recipients. After his schooling in New Norfolk, he became a grocer in Hobart before moving to New South Wales and enlisting with the Australian Infantry Forces on 26 July 1915.

Wally Brown sailed to Egypt in October 1915 joining the First Light Horse Regiment on 14 January 1916. While in Egypt and annoyed by the delays in getting into the "action" in France it is said he made up a story that he had lost his false teeth so that he could be sent to Cairo. Upon arrival in Cairo Wally organised a transfer for himself by ship to the fighting on the western front in France, and this occurred on 30 September 1916.

Wally Brown joined the 20th battalion in August 1917 and in September and October 1917 Wally Brown fought at Passchendaele, Belgium, which was a brutal and bloody battle where some 245,000 Commonwealth forces and 400,000 German forces were killed over a five month period. It was here that Wally was awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal for aiding his fellow wounded soldiers under heavy fire and taking charge of his section after his Sergeant was wounded and disabled. In April 1918 Wally Brown was promoted to Corporal and continued to engage in trench warfare for months on end.

On 6 July 1918 during fierce battles at Villers-Bretoneoux northern France, Wally Brown was awarded the Victoria Cross. The citation reads: “Brown was with an advanced party which took over some newly captured trenches near Accroche Wood and, on being told that a sniper’s post was causing trouble he located the enemy strong point, picked up two Mills bombs (grenades) and ran towards it under fire. His first bomb fell short but on reaching the post he knocked one German down with his fist and threatened the others with the remaining Mills bomb. The whole party consisting of one officer and 12 men surrendered and Brown shepherded them back to the Australian lines."

Memorial stone at New Norfolk Primary School.

Wally Brown survived World War I and returned to Australia working in various jobs before he re-enlisted in World War II in 1940 falsely stating he had no previous military experience and giving his age as 39, instead of 54 years. In Singapore a few hours before the British officially surrendered the city to the Japanese, it was reported that Wally Brown when hearing of the surrender announcement said "no surrender for me" collected some hand grenades and walked towards the enemy never to be seen again. His body was never recovered and his official date of death is 28 February 1942.

Walter Brown's medals.

His medals together with the machine gun he captured in France are displayed at the Australian War Memorial in Canberra.

Today, over 11,000 war veterans and ex-service personnel live in Tasmania. Today we honour and pay respect to all those who have served. On this ANZAC day I encourage the community to reflect upon the price of freedom, and give thanks to all those prepared to pay that price, on our behalf.

Observing Anzac Day

Soldiers on duty at the New Norfolk
Cenotaph on Anzac Day.

STUDENTS, emergency service volunteers and family members made up for a dwindling number of veterans at New Norfolk's Anzac Day services this week.

Reverend Celia Hooker from St Matthew's Anglican Chuch spoke at the town's two civic services on Monday morning and another at the local nursing home, noting that all were as well attended as last year.

"The weather was spectacular for the Dawn Service," Mrs Hooker said. "It was only about four degrees but the sky was so clear and beautiful," she said.

Mrs Hooker said it was obvious that many New Norfolk families instilled a deep respect in their children for the town's servicemen and women.

"Right from the Dawn Service onwards there is a lot of people taking their children and grandchildren to our services and they display great reverence and respect," she said.

SFL 2016 - Round 4 report

SFL Round 4 Report
Provided by SFL League Management

WHAT was expected to be a hotly contested grand-final replay match between the Magpies and the Eagles turned out to be quite the opposite. Claremont led the match all day and wasn’t threatened by New Norfolk at any stage.

Speaking to the Mercury following the game, Magpies coach David Hunt said the main focus of the match had been to respond to the previous week's loss.  The return to form once again proved the Magpies are most likely going to be the team to beat again this season.

While the premiers are back on track, it was another blow for New Norfolk leaving the Eagles on the bottom of the ladder with no wins this season so far. “It’s a pretty disappointing result for us, but we were beaten fair and square out there, there’s no other way of putting it," Eagles coach Matthew Smith told the Mercury.

The Magpies had the win set up at half time, leading  by 40 points and converting nine times from 11 scoring shots. As always Sean Salter stood out for the Magpies, kicking five goals. Ashley Burgess led the Eagles on the scoreboard with two majors.

Claremont won all of three their games on Saturday. In the reserves the Magpies left a devastated New Norfolk reeling after a 123 defeat, while in the Under 18s the final siren went with Claremont defeating New Norfolk.

SENIORS
Claremont 3.1 (19) 9.2 (56) 14.5 (89) 20.7 (127)
New Norfolk 0.3 (3) 2.4 (16) 3.8 (26) 7.10 (52)
Goals - Claremont: S. Salter 5, C. Novy 3, S. Hobden 3, D. Fewkes 2, N. Griffith, M. Allison, B. Barwick, J. Crossin, B. Bester, S. Jones, C. Jetson; New Norfolk: A. Burgess 2, J. Wigg, M. Thompson, R. Heron, K. Walker, J. King.
Best - Claremont: N. Griffith, S. Hobden, D. Hunt, N. Hobden, M. Allison, B. Bester; New Norfolk: B. Wardlaw, M. Thompson, A. Burgess, J. Wessing, J. Gunther, J. Murray..

RESERVES
Claremont 4.7 (31) 11.9 (75) 12.15 (87) 18.22 (130)
New Norfolk 0.0 (0) 1.1 (7) 1.1 (7) 1.1 (7)
Goals - Claremont: R. Martin 6, M. Bird 3, N. Burdon 2, M. Carr 2, J. Price, J. Negri, W. Byers, S. Woods, J. Brown; New Norfolk: N. Heron.
Best - Claremont: S. Woods, N. Burdon, W. Byers, R. Martin, J. Negri, M. Hamilton; New Norfolk: C. Ransley, D. King, C. Miles, T. Jarvis, J. Foster, T. Bligh.

COLTS
Claremont 3.3 (21) 5.7 (37) 12.9 (81) 16.11 (107)
New Norfolk 0.1 (1) 3.1 (19) 3.1 (19) 3.3 (21)
Goals - Claremont: J. Santi 5, C. Howard 2, T. Goodsell 2, K. Murtagh-Rogers, R. Smith, N. Davis, J. Conway, J. Harris, J. Mann, M. McPherson; New Norfolk: J. Russell, L. Crosswell, D. Morgan.
Best - Claremont: R. Smith, J. Conway, C. King, K. Murtagh-Rogers, T. Goodsell, Z. Baynton; New Norfolk: A. York, J. Fisher-Cooley, Z. Triffett, D. Keleher, L. Crosswell, D. Coppleman


In the other games:

Cygnet 13.10 (88) d Huonville 12.12 (84) 
In  a thriller of a match Cygnet just proved itself to be that little bit stronger, hanging on to win in the last quarter.  Earlier in the day Huonville came through with a win in the Reserves by 80 points while in the Colts Huonville won by a solitary goal.

Lindisfarne 19.14 (128) d Brighton 5.9 (39)
After this match at Pontville, Lindisfarne remains the only undefeated team of the season. Even with the home ground advantage the Robins could not compete with Lindisfarne’s sheer determination and power running. Brighton took the points in both the Reserves and the Under 18s.

Dodges Ferry 16.18 (112) d Sorell 6.14 (50)
Sorell took the lead in the first quarter but it didn’t take long for Dodges Ferry to turn things around. It was a similar result in the Reserves where Dodges Ferry took the win by 89 points.

BYE: Hobart

Lest We Forget

New Norfolk's Anzac Day Dawn Service, 11am service and associated
street parades were held in glorious weather earlier today. Big crowds
attended both services and there was a pleasing turnout at the special
mid-morning service held at Corumbene Nursing Home.

Today's local footy scores*

SENIORS: Claremont 20.7 (127) d New Norfolk 7.10 (52)


RESERVES: Claremont 18.22 (130) d New Norfolk 1.1 (7)


COLTS: Claremont 16.11 (107) d New Norfolk 3.3 (21)



*Unofficial

Derwent Valley Anzac Day services

Program of events for April 25, 2016

NEW NORFOLK
5am - Gunfire Breakfast, New Norfolk RSL, George St.
5.45am - Marchers assemble at RSL Club for parade to the Cenotaph via Tank St.
6am - Dawn Service, New Norfolk Cenotaph, Circle St (followed by breakfast at RSL Club).
9am - Special service at Corumbene Home.
10.45am - Anzac Day March, High St. Marchers assemble at top of Arthur Square at 10.30am for parade to the Cenotaph.
11am - Anzac Day Service, New Norfolk Cenotaph, Circle St (followed by refreshments at RSL Club).

BUSHY PARK/GLENORA
11am - Anzac Day Service, Bushy Park War Memorial Swimming Pool, Lake Dobson Hwy.

MAYDENA
6am - Dawn Service, Maydena RSL Club, Kallista Rd. Marchers assemble near Mountain Cafe at 5.45am for parade to the RSL Club.

GRETNA
6am - Dawn Service, Gretna Cenotaph, Lyell Hwy.

HAMILTON
11am - Anzac Day Service at Hamilton Town Hall, Tarleton St.

The Bushy Park War Memorial Swimming Pool Committee and the
Oddfellows Lodge held a working bee today to prepare the pool's clubroom
for Anzac Day.

Faster internet spreading through the Valley

THE National Broadband Network (NBN) has been extended in the Derwent Valley with the commissioning of a new tower at Mount Rivulet near Sorell Creek, serving about 300 homes.

NBN spokesman Russell Kelly said the Derwent Valley was already well served with NBN fixed-wireless towers operating at Glenlusk, Lachlan, Magra, Rosegarland, Westerway, National Park, Maydena, Ouse and Hamilton. Those towers have a capacity to serve about 1900 customers and another is being constructed near Mt Dromedary.

The capacity available through those towers has recently been upgraded, allowing broadband speeds of up to 50 Mbps down and 20 Mbps up, Mr Kelly said. Meanwhile fixed-line rollout began last month in New Norfolk and Lawitta – eventually covering around 3000 customers.

"And later this year, NBN  launches the Sky Muster satellite service – giving access to Tasmanians further afield, including the more remote areas of the Derwent Valley, Midlands and Central Highlands," Mr Kelly said.

“We are aware that hundreds of people in regional Tasmania don’t know they have access to NBN fixed wireless services so there is no better time to find out by checking the www.nbnco.com.au website.”

Footy preview - Round 4

Southern Football League match preview
Round 4 - Provided by SFL League Management

Claremont v New Norfolk at Abbotsfield Park, 2pm Saturday
THIS game is a replay of the Grand Final from last season but hopefully it won’t go the same way for New Norfolk losing by a 64-point margin. This will be a hotly contested clash after the Magpies experienced a devastating loss against Lindisfarne last weekend while New Norfolk had a bye and an extra week to prepare for this game.

Claremont may have the home ground advantage but it will be exciting to see if New Norfolk can give it their all and prove to be the stronger team. Whoever wins, this match will definitely be one to watch with both teams trying to redeem themselves following Claremont's loss last weekend and New Norfolk's slow start to the season so far.

Huonville v Cygnet at Huonville, 2pm
BOTH teams recorded important wins in Round 3 so it will be interesting to see which team prevails in this game. I

Brighton v Lindisfarne at Pontville, 2pm
THIS match may decide the ladder leader after this round, with these two teams sitting in first and second position at the moment.

Dodges Ferry v Sorell at Shark Park, 2pm
BOTH of these teams suffered losses last weekend and will be feeling the need to prove themselves and secure a good position on the ladder this week.

Hobart has the bye.

Fun at Mt Field fagus festival this weekend

Click imge to enlarge.

THE Mt Field Fagus Festival will be held this weekend, celebrating both the centenary of the state's first national park and the annual turning of the fagus into its autumn colours.

Located in the upper Derwent Valley, Mt Field National Park is widely regarded as one of the most serene and beautiful places in Tasmania. The park was established in 1916 and officially opened in 1917. For many years it was simply called National Park and the same name was applied to the town just outside the park's boundary.

This weekend's celebration coincides with the seasonal change of the fagus (Nothofagus gunnii or southern beech). Tasmania’s only deciduous native tree, it changes to spectacular ranges of autumn orange and gold in late April.

This Saturday and Sunday there will be free entry to the park, as well as a program of live music, dancing, food stalls, historic displays, photography workshops and ochre painting. A free shuttle bus to see the fagus tree and guided walks to Russell Falls and Beatties Tarn will also be available.

Shuttle Bus Times:

• Departs Visitor Centre to Lake Dobson via Lake Fenton on the hour from 9am to 3pm.
• Return trips depart Lake Dobson on the hour from 9.30am to 4.30pm. No bookings. 24-seat capacity.

Guided Short Walks:

• Depart visitor centre to Russell Falls every 45 minutes from 10am to 4pm. Walk time is 30 minutes
• Depart Lake Fenton on the hour from 10.30am to 3.30pm. Walk time is 20 minutes
• Walk Beatties Tarn with the Friends of Mt Field. Depart Lake Nicholls carpark at 10.20am and
• 1.20pm. Walk time is two hours. More information at visitor centre.

Saturday program, April 23
10.15-11am: Australian Army Band Tasmania - jazz duo (Main Stage)
10.15–11am: Aboriginal Culture Workshop - ochre painting with Uncle Murray Everett and Danny Gardner (Louise Shoobridge Shelter)
11am: Official Opening and Welcome to Country performed by Aunty Verna Nichols and Aunty Leonie Dickson (Main Stage)
11.10am: Opening Speech by the Governor of Tasmania, Professor Kate Warner (Main Stage)
11.20am: Special Presentation to Westerway Primary School (Main Stage)
11.40-noon: Aboriginal Welcome Dance (Main Stage)
Noon: Woodchopping and Sawing Demonstration by Southern Tasmanian Axemen’s Association (Louise Shoobridge Shelter)
Noon–2pm: Aboriginal Culture Workshop - twining with Aunty Verna Nichols and Aunty Leonie Dickson (Fred Lakin Shelter)
12.30-1.15pm: Discovery Ranger activities for children (Kids Corner)
12.30-1.15pm: Folk and Blues Concert - Dave Steel and Tiffany Eckhardt (Main Stage)
1.15-2pm: Country and Folk Concert and Sing Along - Peter Hicks and Devils Own Bush Band (Main Stage)
2-2.45pm: Aboriginal Dancing and Workshop (Main Stage)
2.45-3.30pm: Discovery Ranger activities for children (Kids Corner)
2.45-3.30pm: Folk & Blues Concert - Dave Steel and Tiffany Eckhardt (Main Stage)
3-3.30pm: Woodchopping and Sawing Demonstration (Louise Shoobridge Shelter)
3.30-4.15pm: Bush Dance - Peter Hicks and Devil’s Own Bush Band (Main Stage)
3.30-4.15pm: Aboriginal Culture Workshop - ochre painting (Louise Shoobridge Shelter)

Sunday program, April 24
10.30-11.15am: Aboriginal Welcome Dance (Main Stage)
11.15-noon: Discovery Ranger activities for children (Kids Corner)
11.15-noon: Folk & Blues Concert - Dave Steel and Tiffany Eckhardt (Main Stage)
11.30-12.15pm: Aboriginal Culture Workshop - ochre painting with Uncle Murray Everett and Danny Gardner (Louise Shoobridge Shelter)
Noon–2pm: Aboriginal Culture Workshop - twining with Aunty Verna Nichols and Aunty Leonie Dickson (Fred Lakin Shelter)
Noon-12.30pm: Woodchopping and Sawing Demonstration by Southern Tasmanian Axemen’s Association (Louise Shoobridge Shelter)
Noon-1.15pm: Country and Folk Concert and Sing Along - Peter Hicks and Devils Own Bush Band (Main Stage)
1.15-2pm: Discovery Ranger activities for children (Kids Corner)
1.15-2pm: Folk & Blues Concert - Dave Steel and Tiffany Eckhardt (Main Stage)
2-2.45pm: Aboriginal Dancing and Workshop (Main Stage)
2-2.30.pm: Woodchopping and Sawing Demonstration -  Southern Tasmanian Axemen’s Association (Louise Shoobridge Shelter)
2.45-4pm: Bush Dance - Peter Hicks and Devil’s Own Bush Band (Main Stage)
3-3.45pm: Aboriginal Culture Workshop - Ochre Painting with Uncle Murray Everett and Danny Gardner (Louise Shoobridge Shelter)

More information about the centenary is available at www.parks.tas.gov.au/centenary.

Half-price bridge for Bridgewater

Concept representation of the proposed new Bridgewater Bridge,
alongside the existing structure. Not the final design and subject
to change. 

THE 70-year-old Bridgewater Bridge would be replaced by a $535 million high-level structure by the end of the decade, Infrastructure Minister Rene Hidding MHA said yesterday.

Mr Hidding unveiled a revised concept for the replacement bridge, which is projected to cost about half of the estimated billion dollar price-tag of the previous design revealed in 2011.

No indication has been given as to how the two proposals differ.

"The Government has today endorsed a report from Infrastructure Tasmania to seek funding from the Federal Government for a new four-lane Bridgewater Bridge," Mr Hidding said. "This will be the most important single transport infrastructure project in the state since the Tasman Bridge was built in the 1960s."

"The current Bridgewater Bridge was built in the 1940s and requires replacement as it places height, mass and width restrictions on vehicles traveling on the Midland Highway, which is Tasmania’s key north-south road link and most important road freight corridor. The current bridge sees an average of 18,500 vehicles per day, bottle-necks traffic to two lanes, and the lifting mechanism is wearing and subject to breakdown," Mr Hidding said.

As with the previous proposal, the new bridge will be built downriver of the existing crossing. It will provide about 200 jobs during construction and will have pedestrian and cyclist facilities. Rail access will be maintained via the existing bridge.

Concept representation of the proposed Bridgewater Bridge
replacement, viewed from the Granton side. Not the final design
and subject to change.

Mr Hidding said the proposed new design was estimated to cost about $535 million but the lower price tag would not compromise either the number of lanes (four) or the clearance height (16m). "Funding for the bridge will be sought through the next five-year round of the Federal Government’s Infrastructure Investment Program. If successful, work on the project is anticipated to start in 2019-20," he said.

The new plan has been welcomed by the Federal Member for Lyons, Eric Hutchinson MHR, who said he had been approached by many to see the Bridgewater Bridge improved or replaced. “I really welcome this announcement. A new Bridgewater bridge will benefit all Tasmanians, everyone who drives on the Midland Highway, and especially those who live in or frequently visit communities in Brighton, the Southern Midlands and Derwent Valley," Mr Hutchinson said.

“The economic benefits are considerable. The construction will create 200 jobs and the increase in productivity cannot be underestimated. In addition, it will reduce driving times and stress for those who work or study in Hobart. “I will be working with the relevant Federal Ministers to ensure they are aware of the significance of this important project. Congratulations to the State Government for getting this back on the table.”

Hours cut at New Norfolk Library

JUST weeks after closing the Maydena Online Access Centre, Linc Tasmania has cut the opening hours at the New Norfolk Library. Effective this week, the library now closes one hour earlier from Monday to Friday and opens an hour later than usual on Thursday mornings.

Now managed by the Glenorchy Library, the New Norfolk Library will lose six hours a week. It will be open for one hour longer than the Derwent Valley Online Access Centre which shares the same building in Charles St.

Opening hours at the Derwent Valley Online Access Centre were reduced last year when the management committee axed its Saturday morning session without notice.

New opening hours at New Norfolk Library
Monday      - 10am-5pm
Tuesday      - 10am-5pm
Wednesday - 10am-5pm
Thursday    - 10am-5pm
Friday        - 9am-5pm
Saturday    - closed
Sunday      - closed

Opening hours at Derwent Valley Online Access Centre
Monday      - 10am-5pm
Tuesday      - 10am-5pm
Wednesday - 10am-5pm
Thursday    - 10am-5pm
Friday        - 10am-5pm
Saturday    - closed
Sunday      - closed

New Norfolk cricket junior development report

Josh Walsh

ANOTHER successful season has come to an end for the New Norfolk Cricket Club's junior teams. Only a couple of weeks before the start of the season, it looked like we were going to struggle for numbers, with the Under 13s having only five players and the Under 16s not having much more. When the season started however, the 13s ended up with 12 players and the 16s had 13 players, which was an amazing effort.

As the club's junior development officer, I don't base success on wins and losses. Although winning is great, I get joy out of seeing kids improve and becoming more confident in their ability.

In the Under 13s, we had an extremely young side, with seven-year-old Tate Browning being our youngest player. I was proud to coach these boys and witness their continued improvement. I was proud of how much our team encouraged each other, which stood out especially when Cameron McMaster and Cale Browning both had operations during the season and were ruled out for the last few games but continued to support the boys by attending the games, which showed awesome character. The boys were well captained by Jordon Gittus, who showed great leadership. I'd like to thank all the parents who helped me during the year. In particular I'd like to thank Craig McMaster for all his of help and Jamie Hill for everything he does for this club.

Josh Rowlands

The Under 16s were coached by Josh Rowlands who did a fantastic job. After losing captain Nathan Rice for six weeks early on due to his appendix, the boys had to find players to stand up in his place. During the season, they had numerous highlights and every player performed well at different stages. Thirteen-year-old Jye Bearman had a fantastic year, averaging 40-plus runs and bowling and wicket keeping very well. It was awesome to see so many of these players playing men's cricket this at different times, which furthered their development. Josh would like to thank everyone who helped him this year and hopes these boys stick together.

Six sides from New Norfolk and Gretna participated in the T20 Blast this year.  Thanks to Leigh Berry and Trent Mayne for helping me with this and well done to all the kids who participated.

The future of Derwent Valley cricket looks bright, with a heap of young players coming through. I look forward to being the JDO next year for New Norfolk and seeing the continued improvement of the kids.

JOSH WALSH

Under 13 Awards - Rising star: Jordon Gittus; Runner up: Jordan George. Most improved: Jakob QuarrellCoaches award: Jack Morgan.

Under 16 Awards - Best and Fairest: Jye Bearman; Runner up: Nathan Rice. Coaches award: Cody Morgan. Most improved: Dylan Browning.

New Norfolk Cricket Club junior players and officials at their trophy
presentations at Tynwald Park recently. 

SFL 2016 - Round 3 report

SFL Round 3 Report
Provided by SFL League Management

New Norfolk had the bye.

Lindisfarne 17.16 (118) d Claremont 7.9 (51)
This game was a turn up for the tipsters with the Two Blues completely outplaying the reigning premier. The result takes Lindisfarne to the top of the ladder as it has won both of its games by convincing margins so far this season. In the Reserves the Magpies won by 37 points and in the Under 18s Lindisfarne toppled Claremont by 20 points.

Cygnet 15.4 (94) d Brighton 13.10 (88)
Cygnet prevailed over Brighton in a very close game at Cygnet. In the Reserves Brighton dominated Cygnet by 71 points and in the Under 18s at the final siren it was a six-point win to Southern Storm.

Huonville 14.12 (96) d Sorell 8.7 (55) 
These teams were put to the test after both suffered losses the previous week. In the end it was the Lions' day. Huonville had a bye in the Under 18s and the Lions prevailed over Sorell in the Reserves.

Hobart 10.12 (72) d Dodges Ferry 9.14 (68) 
After a long game that saw the lead going back and forth between teams, Hobart ultimately proved it was the stronger team, especially with players like Sam Reeves who kicked five goals for the game. Dodges Ferry had a win in the Reserves and started the day by thrashing Hobart in the Colts match.

Roadworks in the area

MOTORISTS may experience delays of up to 15 minutes due to roadworks on Boyer Rd, Gordon River Rd and the Lake Secondary Rd this week. The scheduled works may be subject to change at short notice due to weather.

• Boyer Rd, Dromedary: Pavement works. Reduced speed limit with frequent lane closures between 8.30am and 4pm from April 19-29.
• Gordon River Rd, from Bushy Park to Westerway: Pavement works. Reduced speed limit with frequent lane closures between 8.30am and 4pm on April 19 and 20.
• Lake Secondary Rd, Miena: Resurfacing preparations. Reduced speed limit with occasional lane closures between 7am and 5pm until April 22.

Fires at Mt Lloyd and Lachlan

FIRES at Lachlan and Mt Lloyd have kept local fire brigades busy this afternoon.  A vegetation fire at Lachlan Rd was first reported at 1.48pm and has now been contained.

A scrub fire reported at Mt Lloyd Rd at 2.31pm was quickly brought under control but another fire was reported nearby at 3.36pm and is still being tackled. As of 4.30pm, four heavy tankers, four light tankers, one utility vehicle and a personnel carrier from multiple fire brigades are in attendance, with further vehicles being mobilised.

Click here for updates at the Tasmania Fire Service website.

Dozens of registered private burns are being carried out around the state today, including many in the Derwent Valley. These include a 39 hectare burn being conducted by Forestry Tasmania at Repulse Rd from 3.30-9pm.

Smaller registered burns are registered at Lower Swamp Rd, Lachlan; Gordon River Rd, Macquarie Plains; Molesworth Rd, Molesworth; Glenlusk Rd, Glenlusk; Gordon River Rd, Maydena; Lyell Hwy, Sorell Creek;  and Cockerills Rd, Boyer.

6.30PM UPDATE: The Mt Lloyd fire is now reported as having been contained. One unit remains on site.

Gretna life membership for Ben Rainbird

New Gretna Cricket Club life member
Ben Rainbird.

GRETNA Cricket Club held its annual dinner and trophy presentation at the Gretna Parish Hall on April 2. The evening was well attended with about 60 members and guests in attendance, with many still going in the early hours of the morning.

Ben Rainbird and Darren Lennox both took home a swag of trophies, while Brian Smith received three including the Gretna I and Gretna II catching awards.

A highlight of the evening was the awarding of life membership to club stalwart Ben Rainbird. The presentation was made by Colin Cunningham who said Rainbird had given outstanding service since playing his first game back in 1986 at just nine years of age. The hard-working committee member has been secretary of the club, runs the canteen and has always been first on board with club projects.

On field, Rainbird has been just as dedicated, playing 301 games (242 for Gretna I and 58 with Gretna II). He captained Gretna I for eight seasons and played in five premierships in a row. Rainbird made 5714 runs with a batting average of 23.04 and a top score of 170. He took 243 wickets with a bowling average of 21.06, as well as 118 catches.

Ben is a popular member of the club who thoroughly deserves this award. He becomes the 19th life member of the club. Other life members in attendance at the dinner were Peter Rainbird, Joey Hack, Paul Jarvis, Glenn Blackwell, Tim Lowe and Mathew Burns. It was also nice to have the Member for Derwent, Craig Farrell MLC, and wife Lee in attendance.

Congratulations to all trophy winners and thank you to all trophy donors and sponsors for their ongoing support and generosity. Well done also to the club members who catered for the night. The meal and desserts were delicious.

WADE  GLEESON

Gretna I trophy winners - Batting average: Ben Rainbird 35.00; Aggregate: Ben Rainbird 420 runs. Bowling average: Corey Ransley 16.57; Aggregate: Aaron Maddox 31 wickets. Most catches: Brian Smith 16. Geoff Jarvis Memorial Trophy (best all-rounder): Aaron Maddox 318 points. Players award: Ben Rainbird and Corey Ransley 16 votes each, Runner up: Aaron Maddox 12 votes. Best in finals: Ben Rainbird 19.5 points. 100 Gretna I games: Aaron Maddox. 150 Gretna I games: Craig Cunningham and Peter Jelkic.

Gretna II trophy winners - Batting average: Brian Smith 29.67; Aggregate: Luke Wheeler 262 runs. Bowling average: Darren Lennox 27.81; Aggregate: Darren Lennox 16 wickets. Most catches: Brian Smith 9. Best all-rounder: Darren Lennox 153.5 points. Players award: Darren Lennox 13.5 votes, Runner up: Cameron Emery 10 votes. Cecil Gray Memorial Trophy (Best under 21): Zac Crosswell 185.5 points. Captain's Trophy: Craig Cunningham. Best Clubman: Colin Cunningham. 50 Gretna II games: Cameron Emery. 150 Getna II games: Damien Hack.

Other awards -  300 Club Games: Ben Rainbird. Life Membership: Ben Rainbird. Duck Trophy: Adam Browning 5. 100 club games: Adam Browning, Rhys Browning, Aaron Maddox and Cameron Emery. 150 club games: Darren Lennox and Jackson Ackerly.

Great day despite Targa mix-up

Molesworth Primary School provided packed lunches for each
Targa crew as they arrived at New Norfolk.

MOTORSPORT fans enjoyed the chance of a close look at this year's Targa Tasmania entrants in New Norfolk earlier today, despite confusion over the location of the racecar assembly.

Without warning, the event was moved from the advertised location of Circle St and upper High St. Instead, unexpected road closures were put in place to accommodate the event in lower High St and Bathurst St. Despite the confusion, the new location still provided plenty of up-close viewing of the more than 300 cars participating in the 25th running of Targa Tasmania.

Spectators and competitors mingled at
the St Matthew's Church end of Arthur
Square in New Norfolk.

Drew and Fletcher Kent's 1971 Ford
 Falcon GT, and Andrew Clingeleffer
and David Rust's 2013 Daytona Coupe.

Greg Cook and David Cooper's 1973 Porsche 911 Carrera RS
setting off down Pioneer Avenue.

Ben Dixon and Ben Carpenter's
1977 Holden Torana A9X.

Brian and Linda Dermott's 1971
Holden Torana GTR XU-1.

Targa cars in front of historic St Matthew's Church.

1978 Ford Falcon Cobra crewed by Ian
and Anton Roberts.

The 1965 Lotus Elan S3 crew collect
their packed lunch.

Wayne Clark and Trevor Berriman in their
1938 Dodge Speedster at Tarraleah.

Matt Close and Cameron Reeves in their
2015 Porsche GT3 at Dunrobin.

Can't find Targa? Try Arthur Square

FOR reasons unknown the Targa Tasmania lunch stop in New Norfolk today has been relocated from Circle St to the bottom of Arthur Square.

Beware of unexpected road closures in lower High St, Pioneer Avenue and Bathurst St.

Some of the record fleet of Targa cars in Bathurst St, New Norfolk, earlier today.

Footy preview - Round 3

Southern Football League match preview
Round 3 - Provided by SFL League Management

New Norfolk has the bye.

Lindisfarne v Claremont at Anzac Park, 2pm Saturday

This will be a hotly contested match after both teams have shown their class on field in their games to date this season. Whoever wins, this match will definitely be a good one to watch.  

Cygnet v Brighton at Cygnet, 2pm

Cygnet heads home to try to get a second win on the board, meeting Brighton which has won both games so far this season. Both teams will be looking to reach the end of round three with a solid start to the 2016 season so expect the coaches to be calling for the players to be  incredibly focused and determined to win.  

Sorell v Huonville at Pembroke Park, 2pm

Sorell is yet to win a match this season and with the home ground advantage, maybe this will be the week. This contest will be a fascinating one to watch as both teams are looking to improve their position on the ladder.

Hobart v Dodges Ferry at the TCA Ground, 2pm

After a week off with the bye, Dodges Ferry is off to the TCA ground to play Hobart. Both teams will be after a big win as Hobart looks to build on the win in their last game, while Dodges Ferry had a week off to freshen up and try to get on the winners list. 

Back to Maydena this Saturday

A REUNION of former Australian Newsprint Mills staff, families and friends will be held at Maydena this Saturday from 11am. The RSL Club on Kallista Rd will be the venue, with displays, memorabilia, a chainsaw expo, children's activities and community stalls on offer.

Morning tea and a late afternoon barbecue will be available, including home-made hamburgers and sausages, for a gold coin donation. Copies of the Norske Skog Boyer 75th anniversary book will be on sale for $10.

25th Targa in town this Friday

THE fleet contesting the 25th anniversary Targa Tasmania will roll in to New Norfolk this Friday.

The 2016 event got under way earlier this week and will make its way from the West Coast this Friday for competitive stages at Tarraleah and Ellendale and lunch at New Norfolk.

Circle St and High St will be closed for several hours to allow the Targa fleet to regroup and have lunch before setting off for the final competitive stage at Grasstree Hill.

The public will be able to mingle with Targa crews and take a close look at the participating cars while they are parked for the lunch break in New Norfolk.

ROAD CLOSURES THIS FRIDAY, APRIL 15

MT ARROWSMITH: Lyell Hwy closed between Bradshaws Bridge and Derwent Bridge from 7.30am to 1pm (closed at 6.09am from Derwent Bridge end).
TARRALEAH: Lyell Hwy closed between Tungatinah Rd and Oldina Drive from 8.45am-2.15pm.
ELLENDALE: Ellendale Rd closed between Lake Meadowbank and Dillons Rd from 9.37am until 3.07pm.
NEW NORFOLK: Circle St and High St closed between 11am-3.30pm.

Visit targa.com.au for more information.

Click image to enlarge.

Click image to enlarge.

Community market this Sunday

Derwent Valley Community Market

Sunday, April 17, 2016

10am-2pm

at Derwent Valley Community House

The Avenue, Willow Court, New Norfolk

(Market held on the third Sunday of every month)