Back to school after 50 years

Some of the members of the New Norfolk High School class of 1967.
Click image to enlarge.

MORE than 100 students who attended New Norfolk High School and left in 1967 will be attending a 50th anniversary reunion this weekend, March 4-5.

Many of those will be travelling from interstate from as far afield as Darwin and Broome and the organisers say accommodation in the town will most likely be at a premium as most will be having extended stays in the Valley.

One of the main organisers, Sydney-based Ken Traill, has been working hard to locate past students and has been helped by a number of locals who have used school magazines (Robigana) and photos to identify old scholars. Old school photographs have been provided by past students and the organising group is still seeking any further memorabilia that can be displayed at the reunion.

It is hoped that some of the teachers who worked at New Norfolk High in the late 1960s will be able to attend the functions to be held at the New Norfolk RSL Club on Saturday and at the Salmon Ponds on Sunday.

NNHS records for 1967 showed that a total of 635 students were enrolled at the school at the time. "We have exhausted all avenues in trying to locate past 1967 students however if anyone knows of any we have missed, please let me know as we would welcome you to join us for what we trust will be a few days of good company and good memories," Mr Traill said.

 Ken Traill can be contacted on 0418 971 355.

Is your tourism business digital-ready?

TOURISM operators in the Derwent Valley and Central Highlands are invited to a special session at Bushy Park this Thursday to learn how to make the most out of social media. The Department of State Growth and Destination Southern Tasmania will present the "Digital Ready for Business" event to help local tourism operators to strengthen their social media presence.

This special one-off free event for local tourism operators is part of the "Digital Ready for Business" program being delivered around the state, aimed at helping small businesses take the next step online. This workshop will be presented by digital coach and marketing specialist Rebecca King who says social media is a powerful tool to communicate your marketing messages, to reach a wider audience, and get noticed.

Places are limited. Visit eventbrite.com.au for details of how to book.

Caltex back and pumping

THE New Norfolk Caltex petrol station on the corner of Montagu and Burnett Streets reopened to customers at the weekend, part-way through its redevelopment project.

The site closed in November to allow for a major upgrade to take place. Operated by Bennett's Petroleum, it now has fully updated underground infrastructure, a new forecourt and the latest bowsers with retractable hoses.

Plans lodged with the Derwent Valley Council by Potter Projects on behalf of Bennett's Petroleum show that the existing building at the petrol station is to be extended to accommodate a new convenience store, takeaway and coffee bar.

Structure fire off Blair St

EMERGENCY services remain at the scene of a structure fire in Hay Court, New Norfolk, more than two hours after the incident was first reported.

A fire in the small cul-de-sac off Blair St was reported shortly after 3pm and three units from the local fire brigade were soon on the scene.

The incident is now reported as "contained" but as of 5pm a fire service vehicle and two police cars remained at the scene. The small street is home two two houses and a number of units.

Hope lives here

The third annual Derwent Valley Relay for Life concluded at 10am today after
raising more than $42,000 for cancer research. The "Hope" sign, above, was
 was illuminated around 9pm yesterday, signifying that for the more than 200
 participants, hope does indeed live here.

A scene from the first moments of the relay when the Derwent Valley Concert
Band played at the head of the Survivors and Carers Walk.

Waiting for the relay to get under way.

Legislative Councillor Craig Farrell introduces the guest speakers.

Derwent Valley Relay for Life ambassador Kerry Hore.

The Cancer Council's mascot in front of the Survivors and Carers Walk.

Cancer survivors and carers make the first lap of the Tynwald Park oval.

The Derwent Valley Concert Band on parade.

Some of the walkers in the Survivors and Carers lap of honour.

Another group of Survivors and Carers.

The Norkse Skog team.

Tour group boosts Willow Court funds

Mayor Martyn Evans receives a cheque from APIU members
Aiden Sullivan, Glenn Hevey and Nick Jarvis.

THE proceeds from a recent "After Dark" tour at Willow Court have been donated towards restoration funds for the historic site. Members of the Australian Paranormal Investigation Unit conducted a tour of the council-owned section of the site on December 10.

Limited to 18 people, the tour featured a three-hour historical component followed by supper and then a demonstration of paranormal investigation techniques.

The tour covered the Willow Court Barracks, Allonah and Carlton wards and the Industrial Therapy building and the airing yards.

Representatives of the group last week presented a cheque for $1067.70 to the council and expressed a desire to conduct similar tours in the future.

This weekend's cricket roster

SCA Round 14
All matches start at 10.30am

FIRST GRADE
Saturday
New Norfolk I v Derwent at North Warrane.

SECOND GRADE
Saturday
Gretna I v Knights at Gretna.
Molesworth I v Sorell at Sorell No.1.

FOURTH GRADE
Saturday
Bothwell I v Bagdad at Bagdad.
Bushy Park v New Norfolk II v at Bushy Park.
Gretna II v St Virgil's at St Virgil's.

SIXTH GRADE
Sunday
Molesworth II v Richmond/Cambridge at Richmond.

SEVENTH GRADE
Sunday
New Norfolk III v Knights at Boyer Oval.

EIGHTH GRADE
Sunday
Bothwell II v St Anne's at Bothwell.


YOUTH LEAGUE
Round 14 - Sunday 
Under 13
Gretna v Lindisfarne Blues at Lindisfarne No.2, 9am.
New Norfolk v South Hobart/Sandy Bay Blue at Shoobridge Park, 9am.

Under 14
Gretna v St Annes Crows at Gretna, 9am.
New Norfolk v Brighton Blue at Tynwald Park, 12.15pm.

Youth cricket

CRICKET TASMANIA YOUTH LEAGUE
Round 13

IN the Under 13s games New Norfolk’s Jack Morgan Miller had a great game in his team’s win over South Hobart/Sandy Bay last weekend. Jack bowled three overs taking 1-10 then with the bat made an unbeaten 45 hitting seven fours and one six.

New Norfolk 7/140 off 27 overs d. South Hobart/Sandy Bay 3/139 off 30 overs at Lower Queenborough. Batting: Jack Morgan Miller 45no (seven fours, one six), Tate Browning 21 (two fours), Lewis Spaulding 15 (two fours), Blake Sillifant 10, Cameron McMaster 15 (two fours). Bowling: Tye Oakley 1-7 (3), Jack Morgan-Miller 1-10 (3).

Sorell 4/217 off 30 overs d. Gretna 6/127 off 27 overs at Sorell No.1. Batting: Aidan Featherstone 30 (four fours), Jack Moodie 21 (four fours), Connor Gittus 15 (one four), Sam Jackson 14. Bowling: Kane Lovell 2-21 (4), Connor Gittus 1-18 (4).

In the Under 14s, New Norfolk’s match against University was washed out and no details were available for the Gretna v Kingston Crows game.

Last weekend's cricket

SOUTHERN CRICKET ASSOCIATION
Round 13

WITH just one round remaining before finals, all but one of the Derwent Valley teams can still make the finals or have already secured a spot. Many teams are now on the hunt for the extra bonus points to gain the upper hand for that finals spot which has made for some interesting cricket last weekend.

FIRST GRADE
FIVE wins from as many matches and a New Norfolk I has now secured a spot in the finals of first grade. Playing at home, New Norfolk defeated Old Beach by 42 runs. Batting first, the Red Caps made the good score of 10/199 off 49.3 overs. In reply the visitors were all out for 157 off 42.4 overs. At first drop Harry Booth top-scored with a fine 59 (six fours, one six). Opener Adrian Eiszele made 24 (three fours) and Rohan Heron was next with 18 (one four). With the ball it was opener and captain Jason Rigby who led from the front taking 4-30 off his 10 overs. Joe McCulloch, Nathan Eiszele and Stewart Rice all picked up a wicket each. Considering the hard luck and close defeats this team endured early in the season, this was a big win in the context of the season that is now alive and well. A bonus point from this win won’t go astray either.

Gretna 12th man Conor Kelly-Lennox, 13, snared a great catch.

SECOND GRADE
GRETNA moved into fourth place of the top four with a big 123 run win over Sorell at Gretna and in doing so picked up a bonus point. It was an excellent all-round performance from the home team who posted the big score of 6/332 off its 50 overs. Openers Ben Rainbird 71 (seven fours, two sixes) and Glenn Blackwell 57 (eight fours) got things under way with a fine 126 run stand. It was captain Todd Jarvis and Aaron Maddox who finished things off piling on 116 runs together. Jarvis remained 65 not out hitting seven fours and one six, while at the other end, Maddox was just as good remaining 59no clubbing six fours and two sixes. Sorell was bowled out for 209 off 49.4 overs. Todd Jarvis continued his form with the ball taking 3-5 off just 1.4 overs. Darren Lennox also doing well bowling extremely tightly finishing 2-9 off six overs. Aaron Maddox and Craig Cunningham both picked up two wickets and Corey Ransley one. A highlight towards the end of the match was 13-year-old Conor Kelly-Lennox who came on to field as 12th man Not only did Conor get to field along side his dad Darren, but he was also able to snare himself a great catch at point of the bowling of Todd Jarvis.

In the other second grade match, Molesworth I remained on top of the ladder with a very big eight wicket win over Richmond/Cambridge at Boyer Oval. The visitors had first hit and was bundled out for just 54 off 26.3 overs. Brother Daniel Coppleman also did well capturing 2-11 off five overs. Jye Lester was also very tight with 1-3 off fours overs and Larry Menzie took 1-1 off three balls. In reply Molesworth finished 2-54 off 15.2 overs. Openers Josh Ransley 35no (three fours, two sixes) and Brayden Hodge 12 were the top scorers. For this big win, Molesworth picks up two bonus points.

FOURTH GRADE
IN the first versus second clash, New Norfolk II stamped its authority as the team to beat come finals with a very convincing seven wicket win over Bagdad at Tynwald Park. Bagdad won the toss and elected to bat and was soon in trouble at 6/40, things didn’t improve and the Red Caps had their visitors all out for just 77 off 26.5 overs. In reply New Norfolk got the job done, finishing 3/79 off 15.1 overs. Jamie Hill 17 (two fours) and captain Chris Ashcroft -6 (three fours) gave good support. New Norfolk II with two bonus points from this match, now sit well clear on top of the ladder and cannot lose this position.

In the match at St Virgil’s, Bothwell kept its finals chances alive with a hardfought 32-run win over the home side and in doing so picked up a bonus point. Batting first, the Bucks were dismissed for the low score of 105 off 29.1 overs. In reply, St Virgil’s just couldn't chase down the small target and was bundled out for just 73 off 29.1 overs. Matthew Eyles was the difference top scoring with 29 runs and then opening the bowling taking 5-26 off his 10 overs to skittle the home side and on his way bagging a total of 28 wickets for the season.

At Gretna, the home team did its finals chances no harm with a four-wicket win over Derwent. The visitors had first knock and made slow work of it finishing 10/103 off 45 overs. It was a great effort from the Gretna II bowlers with all playing their part. Cameron Emery in first game back since the start of the season, gave nothing taking 3-13 (10) in a fine performance. Adam Browning 2-19 (10), Brodie Gleeson 2-29 (7) Luke Crosswell 1-27 (8) did well also. In reply, Gretna needing the win and bonus points chased down the runs finishing 6/104 off 19.4 overs. Opener Jordan Hastie top-scored with an entertaining quickfire 43, striking six fours along the way. Adam Browning remained 12 not out and Luke Crosswell also 12. This win gave Gretna two bonus points.

In the other match in fourth grade, Bushy Park defeated Hobart at Risdon Vale. Bushy Park made 10/184 off 40.3 overs. Mitchell Crosswell made 33, Shaun Fenton 32, Dylan Grant 20, Nicholas Fenton 17 and Geoff Crosswell 14 not out. No other details were available at the time of writing.

SIXTH GRADE
MOLESWORTH II went down to Brighton by 120 runs. Brighton had first hit making 10/201 and in reply the home side were dismissed for 81. Brad Jarvis who hurt his knee early came back in and tried his hardest to keep the Brighton runs down taking 3-4 off 3.2 overs in a very impressive display. Liam Triffitt took 2-24 off six overs. With the bat, Josh Nichols top-scored with 21, while Aaron Bradley was next with 10.

SEVENTH GRADE
NEW Norfolk III guaranteed itself a spot in the finals with a very good 50-run win over the MacKillop Beltas at Risdon Vale. The Red Caps won the toss and had first hit making the great score 9/254 off its 50 overs. First drop Aaron Triffitt made his top score for the season hitting up a fine 79 that included nine well struck fours. Trent Smith was next with 31 (four fours, two sixes) and Steven Sillifant in his first match of the season made 28 including five fours. Mitch Rice was next best with 23 (three fours). In reply MacKillop gave it a shake, but was bowled out for 204 off 44.3 overs. David Mitchelmore was the pick of the bowlers taking 3-30 (10). Opener Brad Kemmler did well also with 2-35 (7) and son Coby Kemmler was very tight taking 1-5 (4). In all it was a big win for the young New Norfolk team which also picked up a bonus point.


EIGHTH GRADE
BOTHWELL II remained in the top four with a very good 10 wicket win over Sandford at Clarendon Vale. Sandford won the toss and elected to bat, but nothing went right from here and playing one short they were bowled out for 67 off 33 overs. This was thanks to all the Bucks bowlers, especially Nathan Eyles who bowled well bagging himself 5-16 off 10 overs. Rhys Franklin was also very tight taking 2-12 off five overs while captain Peter Hansch did his bit with 2-15 off 5. In all a very good win by Bothwell as they picked up the two valuable bonus points.

Counting down to the relay

THE third Derwent Valley Relay for Life will be held at Tynwald Park in New Norfolk this weekend. The event will start at 2pm on Saturday and continue until the closing ceremony at 10am on Sunday. 

There are presently 210 participants registered in 22 teams and more than half of the $40,000 fundraising target has already been raised.

The Relay For Life raises funds for the Cancer Council’s research, prevention, information and support services. Now in its third year, the New Norfolk event is a chance for the local community to recognise and celebrate local cancer survivors, patients and their carers, to honour and remember loved ones lost to cancer and to raise money to help save more lives.

To find out more about the Derwent Valley 2017 Relay for Life contact Katrina Foxton on 6169 1902 or email relayforlife@cancertas.org.au. Alternatively find out more and donate here.

There is still time to register a team or sign up as a team member. Online registrations have now closed but there will be an opportunity to sign up on the day from 11am at the Cancer Council of Tasmania's tent.

Campers to be asked to move next door

It was bumper-to-bumper at the boat ramp on Monday night.

THE Gazette reports today that the Derwent Valley Council will set up a temporary campground to take pressure off the Millbrook Rise boat ramp at New Norfolk.

Mayor Martyn Evans is quoted saying that self-contained motorhomes will continue to be able to make daytime use of the boat ramp but those staying overnight will be directed to an adjoining paddock that will be opened up for the purpose.

The move is in response to ongoing concern about the number of campers of all kinds taking advantage of free use of the boat ramp for overnight stays, despite signage saying the area is for self-contained recreational vehicles only. The public toilets at the boat ramp use septic tanks and cannot cope with the additional use by overnight campers.

In recent months the council has been handing out a notice to campers at the boat ramp, pointing out that the self-contained restriction was due to misuse of amenities and vandalism. Complaints have included blocked access to the boat ramp and damage to the public toilets.

Users of the WikiCamps mobile app have been warning for months that continued abuse of the site was likely to see it closed to all campers. In a post dated January 27, one WikiCamps user wrote: "Another great spot getting ruined by bogans and backpackers leaving toilet waste everywhere and going to get another free site closed." Another wrote on January 30: "Totally amazes me how some people can't read signs. It says self-contained motorhomes and caravans only ... the tent and 4x4s parked overnight must have come in after the ranger came round."

Another wrote on February 1: "If this beautiful camp is closed it will be due to the rude arrogant grey nomads who insist on dumping their waste into the public toilets, which creates havoc with the system ... so lazy that they can't drive a couple of kilometres down the road to the dump point."

The Millbrook Rise boat ramp was the subject of discussion at a closed council meeting last Thursday night, with general manager Greg Winton submitting a late agenda item as an urgent inclusion in the meeting. Afterwards the council announced that it had approved the trial of a new area for self-contained campers and that the boat ramp would in future be for day-use only.

Mayor Evans told the Gazette that signage at the temporary campground would provide information about the location and services of the New Norfolk Caravan Park, which includes an area for RV parking for $9 per night.

The Millbrook Rise Boat Ramp at New Norfolk was filled with campers on
Monday night. The council plans to move them to the adjoining paddock seen
here in the foreground.

Top chemist expands again

2a High St is to be incorporated into the adjoining pharmacy.

WORK has started on an expansion of the New Norfolk Guardian Pharmacy at the top end of High St.

Proprietor Bel Bird said she was pleased to see the work under way after a long wait. The project will also see the existing shop given a new fitout.

Established at 6 High St in the 1960s, the pharmacy expanded into 4 High St a decade ago and a first-floor office was added several years ago. The business will now extend into number 2a, which has previously been an office space.

Locally owned and operated, the pharmacy will remain a Guardian outlet with the same staff, plus some new ranges, enhanced layout and a large consulting room.

"The pharmacy will continue to trade seven days a week throughout the works, with minimal disruption to customers," Ms Bird said. The building work is expected to be completed at the end of March.

Congratulations Bel Bird and thanks for your expression of confidence in the town.

How the expanded pharmacy will look, stretching from 2a to 6 High St.

Very high fire danger today

Click here for the latest fire weather forecast.

Archaeologists farewelled... come back soon!

Councillor Barry Lathey, back right, called at Willow Court
this afternoon to farewell archaeologists Calvin Logan, left,
Heather Burke, Lynley Wallis and Bob Stone.

PARTICIPANTS in the third annual Willow Court archaeology field school have downed tools after a successful three-week long investigation.

While most of the student participants finished their work early last week, a small team remained on site until today, continuing underfloor excavations, cataloguing artifacts, scanning documents and conducting oral history interviews.

Late this afternoon, it was announced that the inaugural recipient of the Wallis Heritage Consulting Archaeological Fieldwork Bursary was Calvin Logan of the Archaeology Department at Flinders University.

"Calvin has just spent three weeks carrying out research at Willow Court, on a joint historical archaeology project with the Derwent Valley Council led by Associate Professor Heather Burke of Flinders University," WHC principal Lynley Wallis said.

"Calvin will be completing his honours thesis on an analysis of the materials excavated from under the floor boards in several of the rooms in the Barracks (the oldest building on the site, dating to c1830)," she said. Congratulations Calvin and good luck with the thesis!

Meanwhile, work continues on site at Willow Court on the development of the Agrarian Kitchen's restaurant in Bronte House/B Ward. The owners have recently advertised for staff including a restaurant manager.

Police probe Maydena incident

TWO men have been hospitalised following an incident at Maydena earlier today. Police say a 53-year-old man suffered several stab wounds to the abdomen and arm but his injuries were not considered life threatening.

A 42-year-old man is also being treated for a knife injury and is assisting with police enquiries. Police investigations are continuing.

The Mercury has more.

Bushy Park Show 2017

About 2000 people attended the 2017 Bushy Park Show on Saturday. One of the
popular events was the second annual Great Pollie Peel-Off. Defending
champion Paul Britten, second from left, was victorious once again, fending off
Rebecca White MHA (pictured with infant daughter Mia), Councillor Paul
Belcher and Derwent MLC Craig Farrell. In an unexpected twist, organisers
substituted apples for potatoes in this year's event.
Click here for more Peel-Off photos.

The Tasmanian Lighthorse historical re-enactment troop.

New Norfolk Lions Club member Dick Andrew selling tickets on the
chocolate wheel.

Nahlia Carver, 3, with her two-year-old Palouse pony
named Dotty.  

Nick Fenton holding the new award named
after his late mother, the Sandra Fenton
Memorial shield for the champion junior
cattle handler at the show. 

Sandra Fenton Memorial Shield winner Thomas Kline, centre, with Nick and
Mollie Fenton, left, and Kelly and Maddison Fenton.

Gerald Oakley in action in the chopping arena.

Garbage bags OK for some this Friday

RESIDENTS of three roads in the Derwent Valley municipality will be able to place additional rubbish bags alongside their wheelie bins for collection this Friday. The council reports that due to unforeseen circumstances the garbage contractor did not make all of its regular collections last Friday, February 17.

The areas affected are Lake Dobson Rd at National Park, Tyenna Rd at Tyenna and Kenmore Rd at Bushy Park. The council advises that residents in those areas will have their bins emptied this Friday, February 24. All additional rubbish accumulated during the week may be placed in bags next to the bins and will be collected by the contractor.

Anyone needing more information can contact the council by calling 6261 8530.

Pictures: policeman pips pollies in peel-off

Rural Ambassador Kirrilee Beveridge, left, Derwent Valley councillors Paul
Belcher and Barry Lathey and Legislative Councillor Craig Farrell waiting
for the starter's orders in the first heat of the second annual Great Pollie Peel-Off
at the Bushy Park Show yesterday.

After winning the first heat, Paul Belcher helped fellow councillor Barry Lathey
with the last of his six apples.

Bushy Park Show secretary Allison Hennessey presents Paul Belcher with his
ribbon for winning the first heat.

Derwent Valley mayor Martyn Evans appeals the exclusion of his additional
implement at the start of the second heat, with deputy mayor Ben Shaw, left,
and Lyons MHA Rebecca White, right.

Rebecca White and baby daughter Mia on the way to winning heat two.

All competitors returned to the table for a longest peel contest, joined by last
year's Peel-Off winner Paul Britten.

Constable Britten, left, winning the longest-peel contest.

Rebecca White, left, Paul Belcher, Paul Britten and Craig Farrell in the final.

Paul Britten was the hands-down winner of the 2017 Great Pollie Peel-Off.

Make a day of it at Bushy Park today

Click image to enlarge.

IT'S show day in the Derwent Valley today: Bushy Park Show Day. There will be plenty to see and do at the Bushy Park Showground and visitors will also be welcomed at the town's community market, swimming pool and local businesses.

THE SHOW: Lots of family fun at the Bushy Park Showground, Gordon River Rd, from 9am until 4pm. Entry will cost $7 for adults and $3 for children aged 5-16. Accompanied children aged under five are admitted free and family entry costs $18 (up to two adults and three children). More information on the official website and Facebook page.

BUSHY PARK MARKET: Open from 9am-4pm today and tomorrow at the Upper Derwent United Hall, Gordon River Rd, Bushy Park, with a large range of collectables including bent blackwood ski blanks, rare spanners, a sail-makers axe and much more. Today only, there will also be a Show Day sausage sizzle.

BUSHY PARK POOL: Open today and tomorrow from 10am-6pm. Solar-heated pool, kiosk and free barbecue facility at the Bushy Park War Memorial Swimming Pool, Gordon River Rd, Glenora. Admission $3 for adults and $1.50 for children. More information on Facebook.

This weekend's junior and senior cricket

SCA Round 13
All matches start at 10.30am

FIRST GRADE
Saturday
New Norfolk I v Old Beach at Tynwald Park.

SECOND GRADE
Saturday
Gretna I v Sorell at Gretna.
Molesworth I v Richmond/Cambridge at Boyer Oval.

FOURTH GRADE
Sunday
Bothwell I v St Virgil's at St Virgil's.
Bushy Park v Hobart at Risdon Vale.
Gretna II v Derwent at Gretna.
New Norfolk II v Bagdad at Tynwald Park.

SIXTH GRADE
Sunday
Molesworth II v Brighton at Boyer Oval.

SEVENTH GRADE
Saturday
New Norfolk III v MacKillop Beltas at Risdon Vale.

EIGHTH GRADE
Saturday
Bothwell II v Sandford at Sandford.


YOUTH LEAGUE
Round 13

Sunday 

Under 13
Gretna v Sorell at Sorell No.1, 9am
New Norfolk v South Hobart/Sandy Bay White at Lower Queenborough, 9am

Under 14

Gretna v Kingston Crows at Glenora District High School 9am.
New Norfolk v University Gold at Lower Queenborough 12.15pm.

Community market this Sunday

Derwent Valley
Community Market

Sunday, February 19, 2016

10am-2pm

at Derwent Valley Community House

The Avenue, Willow Court, New Norfolk

(Market held on the third Sunday of every month)

Bushy Park Show coming up this Saturday

Click image to enlarge.

IT’S on again this Saturday... the Bushy Park Show, offering an enjoyable and relaxing day out for the family. The show will feature wood chopping and equestrian events as well as traditional cattle and sheep showing competitions including handler events.

Sands Family Circus will again be putting on a performance and there will be working demonstrations including the traditional arts of blacksmithing, green wood furniture making and putting in a corner post assembly, as well as heritage plants and displays relating to honey and highland cattle to name a few.

Bruce Press will be there with his snake pit and there will also be plenty of young animals for children to see thanks to the Jordan River Learning Federation School Farm. There will be traditional cattle and sheep judging and handling competition, a full equestrian program, mini-horse competition and, for the first time, alpaca fleece judging. Marie Bean, author of The Lazy Runner will talk about her approach to running and fitness.

The Valley Taste section is back again, featuring Mavis Beattie demonstrating a very old recipe, the traditional hop and potato bread. There will also be a butter making demo and two micro-brewers on site, both of whom use hops at Bushy Park. With the hops just about to be harvested, why not take a trip on the Lions Club Train which will depart all day from the showground, doing a short trip through the spectacular hopfields to the Text Kiln and return, for the cost of a gold coin donation.

Other attractions will include the wood-chopping competition and the band Goodfellas performing from from midday. There will also be various stalls including food and beverages, while the traditional competitions of jams, preserves, home brewing and homecrafts will be on again. For the children, puppet shows will be performed several times during the day.

In the afternoon, the second annual “Pollie Peel-off”will be held as local politicians compete against each other to peel the most potatoes in the fastest time under the scrutiny of a judge from the CWA. Can they beat the local police officer who won the first event last year?

The Bushy Park Show will be held this Saturday, February 18, on the showground, Gordon River Rd, nestled among the hopfields beside the Styx River at Bushy Park, just 20 minutes northwest of New Norfolk via Glenora Rd or the Lyell Hwy. Visit the website for more information. Entry will cost $7 for adults and $3 for children aged 5-16. Accompanied children aged under five are admitted free and family entry costs $18 (up to two adults and three children).

Youth League cricket

ANOTHER batch of good performances were turned in by the Derwent Valley's junior players taking part in Round 12 of the Cricket Tasmania Youth League.

In the Under 13s, New Norfolk's Cameron McMaster top-scored with a well-made 19no. Tom Murray bowled very well taking 2-4 off just three overs while Tom Eiszele and Riley Blackaby got two wickets each. Bobby Nossiter had a good game taking 1-20 then made nine with the bat and I hear hit his first ever four!

For Gretna in the Under 13s, Brodie Scanlon had a terrific match with both bat and ball. He made 30 runs hitting two fours and a six and then captured 2-1 off 2.2 overs. Jorden Conley was equally as good making 29 including five fours, and then took 1-10 off 3 overs. Jack Moodie had a good match with the bat also, making 19 including three good fours.

In the Under 14s for New Norfolk, Jack Morgan top-scored with 15no. Jye Bearman bowled extremely well taking 2-8 off five overs. Jordan George and Dylan Browning also did well picking up two wickets each.

In Gretna's Under 14s match, Zac Wheeler put in a great all round effort. He made 47 with the bat including eight well-struck fours and then took 1-15 off five overs with the ball. The day before, Wheeler played in Gretna II's good win over Bothwell I. Zac had a bowl and finished with 0-8 off four overs including four maidens. Well done Zac. Also in the under 14s, Jacob Blackwell made a very patient 22 which included three fours and Tyler Scanlon took 1-23 off four overs.

SCORES

UNDER 13
Lindisfarne 7/138 off 30 overs d. New Norfolk 8/119 off 30 overs at Tynwald Park. Batting: Cameron McMaster 19no, Connor Blackaby 12 (two fours), Blake Sillifant 10, Bobby Nossiter 9 (one four). Bowling: Tom Murray 2-4 (3), Tom Eiszele 2-7 (3), Riley Blackaby 2-8 (4), Bobby Nossiter 1-20 (3).

Kingston Crows 8/119 off 21.2 overs d. Gretna 8/108 off 22.2 overs. Batting: Brodie Scanlon 30 (two fours, one six), Jorden Conley 29 (five fours), Jack Moodie 19 (three fours). Bowling: Brodie Scanlon 2-1 (2.2), Connor Gittus 2-7 (2), Byron Conley 2-16 (2), Jorden Conley 1-10 (3), Aidan Featherstone 1-14 (2).


UNDER 14
Lindisfarne 8/59 off 19.5 overs d. New Norfolk 8/46 off 15.3 overs at Lindisfarne. Batting: Jack Morgan 15no.  Bowling: Jye Bearman 2-8 (5), Jordan George 2-11 (3), Dylan Browning 2-20 (5), Jordon Gittus 1-6 (2), Jake Stevenson 1-9 (2).

Brighton Red 3/1300 off 23 overs d. Gretna 8/120 off 35.2 overs at Gretna. Batting: Zac Wheeler 47 (eight fours), Jacob Blackwell 22 (three fours), Dylan Davis 9 (one four). Bowling: Zac Wheeler 1-15 (5), Cameron Clark 1-43 (6), Tyler Scanlon 1-23 (4).

Southern cricket - round 12

SOUTHERN CRICKET ASSOCIATION
Round 12

THIS week's round of the Southern Cricket Association saw some interesting results with some teams keeping their finals ambitions alive, while others weren't so lucky. There were some fine individual efforts including four five-wicket hauls, four four-wicket hauls and five scores over 50. A highlight of the round was Stewart Rice's  4-1 off just 1.4 overs. In all, it was a big round of cricket.

FIRST GRADE
New Norfolk I kept its finals dream alive with a good win over Rokeby at Clarendon Vale. Set 144 for victory, the Red Caps easily chased down the target with the loss of just three wickets, giving the team four wins in as many weeks and five in total this season. New Norfolk is now only one point away from making the top five. The win was set up through some excellent bowling from Stewart Rice who finished with the remarkable figures of 4-1 off just 1.4 overs. Aaron Drew took 3-49 off his 10 overs while Josh Dykes picked up two and Nathan Eiszele one. With the bat it was captain Jason Rigby with 60 not out. His timely innings consisted of 10 fours and a six. Seb Wishart was also very good with the willow with 46no with four fours and one six. The pair put on 90 for the fourth wicket to seal the match off just 34.2 overs. Earlier, Harry Booth made 19 (three fours).

SECOND GRADE
Molesworth I remained on top of the ladder after its 39-run win over Wellington. Travelling to Eady St, Molesworth had first hit and made 10/185 off 46.3 overs. Captain Jamie Adams led from the front with a well-timed 68. Adams hit eight fours and a six during his stay at the crease. Nick Piuselli gave good support with 32 (one four, two sixes) and opener Josh Ransley did his bit with 30 (three fours).
In reply, Wellington was dismissed for 146 off 40 overs. Brayden Hodge took 5-41 off 10 overs in an excellent spell of bowling. Josh Ransley 2-11 (4) and Daniel Coppleman 2-23 (7) did well and Brad Coppleman finished with 1-25 (8).

Playing at home, Gretna I kept its finals aspirations alive with a good six-wicket win over Old Beach. Four wickets from the spin of Todd Jarvis and a 117-run stand from openers Ben Rainbird and Glenn Blackwell set up Gretna's victory.  After being sent into bat, Old Beach made 8/198 off its allotted 50 overs. Todd Jarvis did well with the ball capturing 4-34 (5) and fellow spinner Ben Rainbird took 2-24 (10) while Corey Ransley took 1-48 (10). In reply, Gretna finished 4/204 off 35.1 overs. Ben Rainbird top-scored with 66 (four fours, two sixes) and Glenn Blackwell was equally as good making 53 (three fours, two sixes). Todd Jarvis 17no (one six) and Rhys Browning 14no (one four) put on 34 to seal the win. Gretna is now just out side the top four with two matches remaining.

FOURTH GRADE
A great all-round effort from Josh Walsh helped New Norfolk II kept its place at the top of the ladder with a 98-run win over St Virgil's at Tynwald Park. After being sent into bat, the Red Caps made 9/171 off 50 overs. Captain Chris Ashcroft top-scored with a well-made 39 (four fours). Nathan Rice made a handy 23 with one six. But from then it was the Josh Walsh show. Batting at number nine, Walsh made 37 hitting four fours and two sixes in a great display. Then with the ball, Walsh sent down 10 overs for the excellent t figures of 4-13. Jamie Hill showed great support taking 3/19 off four overs in a fine short spell. Cody Morgan-Coleman continues to take wickets and finished with good figures of 2-14 (6) and Todd Rusher 1-16 (6).

Gretna II travelled to Bothwell where it kept in touch with the top four with a two-wicket win over Bothwell I. The Bucks had first knock and made 10/153 off 44 overs. Nathan White top-scored with 32 and Joey Eyles was just behind with 30. Captain Cody Eyles made 23 and Brock Nichols 18. For Gretna, Luke Crosswell bowled well sending down nine overs and  taking 4/36 (9). Jake Campbell, captain Jackson Ackerly and Zac Crosswell all took two wickets each. In reply, Gretna got over the line with two wickets to spare finishing 8/155 off 46.1 overs. At number three, Zac Crosswell set the win up with a very good 59 that included five well-struck fours and a six. Openers Luke Wheeler 20 (four fours) and Jordan Hastie 18 (two fours) put on 35. But at the end, Joey Hack came out of retirement and made a valuable 20no (two fours) in what was his 399th match since 1977-78. Mathew Perotti showed great fight. Matthew Eyles was the best of the Bothwell bowlers with 2-18 (10). Brick Nichols took 2-25 (8), Nathan White 2-43 and Mathew Glover tight finished with 1-10 (4).

A five-wicket haul from Troy Smith helped Bushy Park stay in contact with the top four with a four-wicket win over Derwent at Cambridge Oval on Saturday. Derwent had first hit and was all out for 84 off 40 overs. Allrounder Troy Smith put on a great performance with the ball, capturing 5-19 off 10 overs. Nathan Grant took 1-17 (7), Nicholas Fenton 1-8 (6) and Geoff Crosswell 1-1 (1). In reply, Bushy Park chasing the bonus points got the small target finishing 6/87 off 14.3 overs. Nathan Grant top-scored with 25, Mitch Crosswell 18 and Troy Smith made 13.

SIXTH GRADE
After their first win last week, Molesworth I lost to Bagdad at Boyer Oval by 115 runs. Molesworth won the toss and sent Bagdad in to make the good score of 10/204 off 47.4 overs (48 extras). In just his fourth match of the season, Zane Lester took 5-26 off 6.4 overs in a good spell of bowling. Nathan Triffitt captured 2-12 (3) and Jake Sorrenson 1-13 (5) also tried hard. In reply, Molesworth was all out after 33.1 overs for 89. Captain Jack Evans top-scoring with 25 (two fours) and Brad Jarvis 16 (two fours).

SEVENTH GRADE
Third-placed New Norfolk II went down to top-placed St Anne's by 137 runs at Cadburys No.2. The home side batted first and made the good score of 10/248 off just 36.4 overs. Like many others in Round 12, David Mitchelmore took five wickets. Sending down 8.4 overs Mitchelmore finished with 5-48. Liam Kalbfell 2-34 (6) was the next best. In reply, New Norfolk was all out for 111 off off 25 overs. Brendan Skelly top-scored with 34 (six fours, one six). Opener David Mitchelmore had a good match making 24 (four fours). Mitch Rice made 15 (two fours).

EIGHTH GRADE
Bothwell played Derwent at Shoobridge Park. No results were available at the time of writing.

Warning for motorists near Ouse

POLICE advise motorists to take care driving on the Lyell Highway near Ouse following reports of a grass fire causing smoke in the area.

Motorists are advised to slow down, put on their headlights and drive to the conditions.

Derwent Valley fire weather warning

Bureau of Meteorology

Tasmania

Fire Weather Warning
for the Upper Derwent Valley and South East forecast districts

Issued at 9:12am on Wednesday 15 February 2017.

Weather Situation

Temperatures in the high twenties, relative humidity reaching as low as 20% and gusty northwesterly winds with mean speeds of 45 to 55km/h are expected.

For the rest of Wednesday, February 15:

Very High Fire Danger is forecast for the following forecast districts:
Upper Derwent Valley and South East 

The Tasmania Fire Service advises you to:

• Action your Bushfire Survival Plan now.
• Monitor the fire and weather situation through your local radio station, www.fire.tas.gov.au and www.bom.gov.au.
• Call 000 (Triple Zero) in an emergency.

For information on preparing for bushfires go to www.fire.tas.gov.au.

No further warnings will be issued for this event, but the situation will continue to be monitored and further warnings issued if necessary.

KidFit triathlon coming up again

Map of the New Norfolk course. Click image to enlarge.

FAMILIES are encouraged to register now for the annual KidFit Series, with spots said to be filling up quickly for Tasmania’s popular family-friendly, fitness event later this month. Fun family fitness activities will be held on the Derwent Esplanade in New Norfolk on Saturday, February 25, with registrations closing on February 22.

The whole family can get involved on the day with a kids triathlon, a family fun run and a family zone of activities run by local sporting groups. Local AFL legend and Bupa Australia head of market development Peter Hudson was one of the event's founders 18 years ago and says it was established to support Tasmanian families’ health and wellbeing.

“The series is a great way for kids to have fun while being active and gives them a great sense of satisfaction for having a go and crossing the finishing line," Mr Hudson said. “The whole family can get involved on the day with the Family Fun Run while creating lasting memories together. It’s been fantastic to see the impact that it’s had on Tasmanian families over the last 18 years, with some of our very first competitors now bringing their own kids along to participate.”

The triathlon is open to children of all abilities aged 7-15 years and free training plans are available online to help all participants prepare for the event. The Team Family Fun Run is open for all ages and will take participants on a choice of either a 1km or 2km loop course. Triathlon entry for all Bupa members and their family is $5. All other triathlon entrants $15 per participant. The Team Family Fun Run is free though a gold coin donation will be appreciated.

Stephen Dimsey from Life Be In It says the events are designed for all abilities so everyone can get involved. “Good health and wellbeing habits are shown to give kids the best start in life and ultimately reduce long-term chronic health risks,” Mr Dimsey said.

Numbers are limited for the triathlon event and families are encouraged to register early to avoid disappointment. For more information or to secure your spot visit www.kidfitseries.com.au.

Wednesday: total fire ban

THE Tasmania Fire Service has declared a Total Fire Ban for the 24 hours from midnight tonight, Tuesday, February 14 until midnight on Wednesday, February 15, 2017. This will affect the following municipalities: Derwent Valley, Central Highlands, Brighton, Glamorgan/Spring Bay, Kingborough, Glenorchy, Sorell, Clarence, Hobart, Southern Midlands, Huon Valley and Tasman.

Current weather predictions provided by the Bureau of Meteorology indicate very high fire danger ratings for several districts in southern Tasmania for Wednesday, February 15.

The declaration of a total fire ban means that no fires can be lit in the open air. Tasmania Fire Service requires landowners with fires already burning to make sure they are completely extinguished.

"Some areas in the southern region, particularly the southeast, may see temperatures of up to 30 degrees and wind gusts up to 80km/h which will push fires rapidly making them dangerous and difficult to control" Tasmania Fire Service chief officer Chris Arnol said.

"Although temperatures over the previous few days have been relatively mild, grass and forest fuels are now very dry and in abundance due to the ongoing rain continually promoting growth growth over the spring summer periods" Mr. Arnol said.

"When instances of high fire danger occur, it is important that people know exactly what to do if a fire threatens their home or property. To assist with this planning, residents are encouraged to visit the Tasmania Fire Service website to view the Community Bushfire Protection Plans for their area. These are developed to provide assistance in the event of an emergency that will inform residents of Nearby Safer Places, evacuation routes and how to receive emergency information. Information is also included that will assist in preparing individual emergency plans prior to a fire occurring."

More information on Total Fire Bans and incidents in your area can be found at www.fire.tas.gov.au.

Total Fire Ban for southern
Tasmania on Wednesday.

General advice on a day of Total Fire Ban

Tools and Equipment: Tools and equipment that use a naked flame or generate sparks such as welding or grinding, must not be used in the open air. If essential works are required to be done a special permit may be issued, after a thorough investigation of each application. Apply to your TFS Regional Office.

Barbecues that use wood, charcoal or other solid fuel are banned: Gas and electric barbecues are permitted subject to the strict application of the conditions set out below. Gas and electric barbecues provided in public reserves/campsites may be used providing:

• the barbecue is electric or gas fired
• the barbecue is fixed permanent structure.

Portable gas and electric barbecues may be used provided the barbecue is located within 20 metres of a permanent dwelling (mobile homes, caravans or tents are not classified as permanent dwellings).

Additional conditions that apply to the use of portable electric and gas fired barbecues and barbecues in public reserves and campsites:

• the area for 3 metres around and above the barbecue is completely cleared of flammable material.
• an adult is in attendance at all times
• a tap with hose connected is ready for use
• at least 10 litres of water is on hand in case of emergency.

Water Usage: For information regarding water usage during a day of Total Fire Ban please refer to www.taswater.com.au 

Third Relay for Life coming up

Some of the people behind the Derwent Valley Relay for Life.

THE third Derwent Valley Relay For Life will be held at Tynwald Park, New Norfolk, on February 25-26, raising funds for the fight against cancer, and there is still time to join in.

Relay for Life started in the Derwent Valley in 2015, when more than 250 participants attended over a scorching weekend at Boyer Oval. The event moved to Tynwald Park for the second relay in 2016.  “This is about our community getting behind the fight against cancer and we urge everybody, no matter what age, to help contribute to the fight” Derwent Valley Relay for Life Committee co-chairman Sandra Hetherington said.

Relay for Life state project manager Anthony Edwards said people participated in Relay For Life for many different reasons - to remember, to support and to contribute to the fight against cancer. "We encourage people from all across the entire Derwent Valley to show your support to this unique event,” Mr Anthony Edwards said.

"More than eight Tasmanians are diagnosed with cancer every day. Its an alarming statistic. Yet the unified effort to raise money for such an important cause bonds everyone from locals businesses to schools, family and friends to participate. All funds raised stay here in Tasmania to help local communities in the fight against cancer."

The Derwent Valley Relay has grown over the last three years and the local organising committee is keen to encourage even more people to contribute and participate by registering a Relay For Life team at www.relayforlife.org.au and then build a team of family and friends.

Relay for Life ambassador Kerry Hore
with the Magra Fire Brigade.

One of the Derwent Valley relay's newest teams, Babies on Board, helped to launch this year's event by hosting a barbecue at Tynwald Park as part of its fundraising efforts. Adding to the occasion, the New Norfolk Fire Brigade and friends battled it out against the Magra Fire Brigade in a tug of war. Derwent Valley Relay For Life ambassador and local Olympian Kerry Hore, helped by the Relay mascot Sid Seagul, declared Magra Fire Brigade to be the clear winner.

Twenty teams have so far entered this year's Derwent Valley Relay for Life, with a total of 144 participants. There is still time for new teams to register and for additional participants to join in. Visit the website for more details.

The Relay for Life tug-of-war between New Norfolk Fire Brigade on the left
and Magra Fire Brigade on the right.