Tenders called for new ski shelter

An artist's impression of the proposed ski
shelter at Mt Field National Park.

THE Southern Tasmanian Ski Association has welcomed the announcement that tenders have been called for the construction of a new public shelter at Mt Mawson within the Mt Field National Park.

“This is an exciting development, and one that the Southern Tasmanian Ski Association has been advocating for a number of years,” STSA president Peter Davis said. "It has been clear for some time that the temporary shipping containers on site are inadequate and STSA has expressed concerns about visitor safety and amenity," Dr Davis said.

"It is great news ... that plans for a new purpose-built public shelter at Mt Mawson have now progressed to the pre-construction phase," he said.

Parks, Environment and Heritage Minister Matthew Groom said the new shelter would consist of two new buildings to be built on the site of the Sitzmark Lodge that was removed some years due to its deteriorated condition.

"The buildings will provide a public shelter and toilet facilities for walkers, skiers and snowboarders, in addition to providing ski patrol and first aid facilities for the Southern Tasmanian Ski Association," Mr Groom said.

"The existing temporary shelter will remain in place until the new buildings are complete to provide facilities and shelter throughout the coming winter, with constructed expected to be completed during the summer period. The government recognises the value of our national parks to Tasmania’s booming tourism sector, and upgrades such as this ensure we can deliver a world class experience and enhance our growing international reputation for nature based tourism," he said.

Warning to sheep graziers

Bureau of Meteorology

Tasmania

Warning to Sheep Graziers
for the Upper Derwent Valley and South East forecast districts

Issued at 9.33pm on Friday 31 March 2017.

Sheep graziers are warned that colder temperatures, showers and strong west to southwesterly winds are expected during Saturday. Areas likely to be affected include parts of the Upper Derwent Valley and South East forecast districts. There is a risk of losses of lambs and sheep exposed to these conditions.

The next warning will be issued by 5am Saturday.

Night works to close the Bridgewater Bridge

Detour map. Click image to enlarge.

THE Bridgewater Bridge will be closed for night works this Saturday and Sunday to allow for maintenance on the deck which cannot be carried out while the bridge is carrying traffic.

To allow for this essential maintenance work, the bridge will be closed to all traffic at the following times:

FROM 7.30pm on Saturday, April 1, reopening at 6am on Sunday, April 2, and
FROM 7.30pm on Sunday, April 2, reopening at 6am Monday, 3 April.

During these closures, all traffic will need to detour, and motorists are encouraged to allow extra time for their journey. Alternative routes between the eastern and western shores are available via the New Norfolk, Bowen and Tasman bridges.

These works are essential maintenance to joints on the bridge deck which cannot be completed while the bridge is carrying traffic. Conducting the works at night over the weekend is intended to minimise the impact to the travelling public.

Signage has been installed on the approaches to the bridge advising road users of the works and detour routes. Heavy vehicle operators should check the Transport website for information on detour routes available to them. For more information visit www.transport.tas.gov.au/road/closures_delays

New Norfolk Junior Cricket report

Under 13s Rising Star Cameron
McMaster with coach Adrian Eiszele.

WITH another junior cricket season now over, it's time to look back and reflect on the season that was for the New Norfolk club. Before the 2016/17 junior season started, the decision was made to disband the Under 16s side due to the majority of players from the previous season now playing men's cricket.

With that in mind, the decision was made to have an Under 13 and Under 14 side this season. Both sides trained together for the whole season and we had seven new players in our regular side - a great effort considering we were struggling with numbers early on.

The Under 13s were coached by club legend Adrian Eiszele. He was well supported by Craig McMaster who helped with every game and was fantastic. This was a young side, with seven-year-old Bobby Nossiter making his debut and being the youngest player this season Captain Cameron McMaster led from the front in every game and showed awesome leadership beyond his years. Jack Morgan made the first 50 of his career - a great sign for the future. Each player improved as the season went on, reaching personal milestones.

Coach Josh Walsh with Under 14s
Rising Star runner-up

The Under 14s were coached by Josh Walsh, who had his own cricket commitments and was unable to coach a few games during the season. If it wasn't for Brett Gordon who coached the games Walsh couldn't, the side would've had to forfeit. Brett deserves credit for everything he did this year. The side was led by Dylan Browning who played a couple of senior games himself as the season progressed. Jye Bearman scored a couple of 50s and played men's cricket all year, showing everyone how bright his future is. Vice captains Jordon Gittus and Jordan George each made a 50 and stepped up during the year. It was great to see Tom Murray, Jack Morgan, Riley Blackaby and eight-year-old Tate Browning step up and play in the Under 14s during the year when they could've easily stayed in Under 13s. Having an Under 14s side allowed the club to give younger players experience in a higher age group which will benefit them next season.

Both teams won their final match of the season and had good years. Success should not be judged purely on wins and losses. It is a success if the kids improve in every game and continue playing cricket and having fun.

Rising Star Awards: Cam McMaster and Jye Bearman
Runner Up: Jack Morgan and Jordon Gittus
Most Improved: Tate Browning and Tom Murray
Coaches Award: Lewis Spaulding and Riley Blackaby

New Norfolk also took part in T20 Blast with Gretna this season and that was a success. Thanks to Liahm O'Brien and Tom Murray for helping out every week and Wade Gleeson from Gretna and his helpers. It was great to see so many young kids having fun.

Thanks to all helpers during the year and a big thanks to Jamie Hill for everything he has done for the Red Caps. We look forward to another season for the juniors next summer and seeing more kids playing cricket.

New Norfolk Cricket Club 2016/17 Under 13s and 14s. Back from left: Under 14s
coach Josh Walsh, captain Dylan Browning, vice captain Jordan George, Jake
Stevenson, Jack Gordon, Zayde Hill, vice captain Jordon Gittus, Blaine Tomlin,
Tom Eiszele, Tom Murray and Under 13s coach Adrian Eiszele. Front from left:
Tate Browning, Under 13s vice captain Cale Browning, Blake Sillifant, Bobby
Nossiter,  Riley Blackaby, Lewis Spaulding, Under 13s captain Cam McMaster,
Tye Oakley, Wyatt Townsend and Jack Morgan.

Annie gets the kids in2Cricket

The Glenora in2Cricket participants and leaders meeting
Captain Hurricane recently.

FOR the last seven weeks, Annie McKenzie and her assistant Tash Farrow have run a Milo in2Cricket program at the Glenora District High School.

The sessions were run each Sunday with the kids learning all the basic skills and fun activities of the game of cricket. The children thoroughly enjoyed themselves from start to finish and were very excited to meet Captain Hurricane along the way.

Annie said the program was very satisfying to run and she would like to thank the kids for making it such a great time. "Also a big thank you to Tash Farrow and the parents for all your help, it was really much appreciated," said Annie, who has run two in2Cricket programs this cricket season.

Well done Annie. Your commitment to the kids and our great game of cricket is a real credit to yourself. Your efforts are very much appreciated by all.

WADE GLEESON

Have you seen this car?

Did you see this car? Police would like to identify the owner
or driver.

POLICE are seeking witnesses to a series of dangerous driving manoeuvres involving the silver-grey Mitsubishi Magna sedan pictured opposite.

Seen here entering Burnett St, New Norfolk, in the wrong lane of traffic, the car is believed to be displaying false registration plates. The front plate reads DS8320 while the rear plate is FD2554.

DS8320 is the expired registration of a white 1987 Toyota Tarago van while FD2554 is the lapsed registration of a red 1995 Daewoo Cielo.

Detectives believe the Magna has been involved in a number of alleged police evasions, dangerous driving and the theft of tools from a ute in West Hobart on Sunday morning.

Police would like to hear from anyone who may have information that could assist with the investigation or that can identify the current owner or driver of the Mitsubishi Magna.

Information can be relayed to Crime Stoppers by calling 1800 333 000 or online via www.crimestopperstas.com.au quoting reference number OR557950.  Crime Stoppers does not need to know your name.

Youth event this Saturday

Click image to enlarge.

When: Saturday, April 1, from 11am until 2pm

Where: Ellis Dean Reserve, Blair St, New Norfolk

What:
• Tas Laser Skirmish
• Graffiti art workshops
• Laughter Lines face painting
• Community2Sea
• Mission Australia Youth Beat Program
• Derwent Valley PCYC
• Jumping castle
• Dunk tank
• Barbecue and coffee van

For more information contact Derwent Valley Council youth and community participation officer, Matt Hill on 0408 618 588. This is a drug and alcohol-free event.

Power outage at Molesworth

MORE than 60 homes at Molesworth are without power this evening after a large sheet of bark wrapped itself around an electrical transformer during windy weather this afternoon. 

Restoration of the power supply is expected in several hours time. Check the TasNetworks website for updates.

Esplanade walk and talk

THE public will be able to have its say on the recently-released Draft Esplanade Precinct Concept Plan during a "community walk and talk" this Tuesday at 6pm.

Derwent Valley Council general manager Greg Winton told this month's council meeting that the purpose of the Esplanade Precinct Concept Plan was to help the council to secure a promised $600,000 in federal funding for the upgrading of the infrastructure and facilities on the Derwent Esplanade at New Norfolk.

Mr Winton said it was proposed to combine the federal funding with an earlier State Government election promise of $300,000 for a marina on the Derwent to produce a project valued around $1 million. The project could exceed $3 million if combined with the proposed relocation of the New Norfolk Rowing Club to the southern bank of the river.

Those at the council meeting heard that although the draft concept plan had already been provided to the Federal Government, the consultants who developed the $20,000 plan intended to hold a “community walk and talk” at the Derwent Esplanade on Tuesday, March 28, starting at the Ferry St pontoon at 6pm.

The draft concept plan has also been advertised for public comment for a period of 42 days closing on May 3 and can be obtained from the council office or downloaded here.

Local cricket season wraps up

IN the Southern Cricket Association first grade preliminary final between New Norfolk I and Wellington on Saturday, it was Wellington that went through to the grand final by the very big margin of 211 runs.

Wellington had first knock, making the massive total of 7/322 off its 50 overs. In reply, New Norfolk was never in the hunt and finished 9/111 off 26.3 overs. Josh Dykes didn't bat, sidelined due to a finger injury.

Nathan Eiszele and Jason Rigby took two wickets each while Stewart Rice and Joe McCulloch got one each. I hear Nathan Eiszele was the main run score, but with no stats available this is all that I can report on at the time of writing.

Bad luck to New Norfolk I. It was a great effort to make the preliminary final after having had only a couple wins before the half-way mark this season.

For the record, this will be Wellington's ninth first grade grand final appearance in a row since 2008/09- and that's what I know from the MyCricket website, it could well be even more. It's an excellent achievement and they have only lost one of those finals, which was in 2011/12. If Wellington wins this year, it's five flags in a row for them.

Well that's it for our local clubs this season. It's been a good one and each team and its players can hold their heads very high for what has been yet another great season of cricket.

WADE GLEESON

New Norfolk wins Fourth Grade flag

Man of the match Nathan Rice.

THEY have done it! After finishing minor premiers in the Southern Cricket Association, New Norfolk II  has gone on and claimed the ultimate prize, defeating Bagdad for the Fourth Grade premiership at Tynwald Park on Saturday.

In what was their first premiership in 20 years, the Red Caps defeated Bagdad by the big margin of 96 runs. After being sent into bat, New Norfolk gave a great display of batting, making 6/234 off its 50 overs. In its best batting display of the season, the team put together a defendable target that was always going to be hard to get.

Cody Neads batted well under pressure and made the opposition pay for its mistakes, making the high score of 67 in a very timely knock. From here it was the innings of Nathan Rice who soon had the crowd on his side. The 16-year-old came to the crease with plenty to do if his team was to post a good score. Facing more than his share of sledging, the kid known as "The Reason" stepped up to the plate and made his first ever half century, remaining 53 not out. Later named man of the match, Rice struck many boundaries and defied all odds in what was a memorable innings. Leigh Berry hung around and made 19, captain Chris Ashcroft 18 and Josh Walsh a handy 17.

In reply Bagdad finished all out for 138 off 40.1 overs due to the very tight bowling of the Red Caps who took every chance that came their way. Josh Rowlands led the way taking 2-26 off 10 overs in a fine spell of bowling. Josh Walsh bowled as well as he has all season, taking 2-26 off eight overs. Cody Morgan took 2-19 off six overs, claiming two wickets in one over to have Bagdad on the ropes early. Jamie Hill chipped in with 2-19 off 4.1 overs. But then cometh the young man, cometh the moment when Nathan Rice turned his hand to bowling and took 1-20 off six overs in what must have been a very satisfying match for the youngster. Cleaning up was Aaron Drew who took 1-26 off six overs.

It was a very good win for New Norfolk, which has been the most consistent team all season. These two teams met in the Twenty20 grand final with a win to Bagdad, but to turn the tables when it really mattered is a big feather in New Norfolk's cap. Well done to all. Playing on Saturday were: Jamie Hill, Mitchell Rice (12th man), Chris Ashcroft (captain), Glen Williams, Josh Rowlands, Cody Neads, Leigh Berry, Aaron Drew, Josh Walsh, Cody Morgan, Nathan Heron and Nathan Rice.

Fourth Grade premiers, New Norfolk II. Back row from left: Jamie Hill, Mitchell
Rice (12th man), Chris Ashcroft (captain), Glen Williams, Josh Rowlands, Cody
Neads, Leigh Berry and Aaron Drew. Front: Josh Walsh, Cody Morgan, Nathan
Heron and Nathan Rice.

New Norfolk II's last premiership win was 20 years ago in the now defunct Derwent Valley Cricket Association in 1996/97 when they defeated Glenora/Ellendale by 148 runs at the Bushy Park Showground in the B-Grade grand final. The team then was: Rohan Windsor, Sam Wardlaw, Robert Crane, Glenn Eiszele, Jarrod Browning, Shane Eiszele, James Bramish, John Walsh, Rodney Hayden (captain), Dale Robertson and Corey Reeves. Scores: New Norfolk 10/241 d. Glenora/Ellendale 10/93.

In that same season the club made it the double with New Norfolk I winning the A Grade premiership, defeating Old Beach at Bushy Park.

New Norfolk II's last grand final appearance before Saturday was in Division 3 of the SCA in season 2009/10 when it was defeated by MacKillop Beltas at Richmond. The team was: Nathan Heron, Daniel Taylor, Chris Ashcroft, Jarrod Browning, Simon Crane, Richard Munnings (captain), Jeremy Cashion, Luke Browning, Bradley Chaplin, Khyle Ashcroft and Graeme Rowlands. Scores: MacKillop 6/181 off 48 overs d. New Norfolk II 10/158 off 41.3 overs.

WADE GLEESON

Forestry burns planned for today

FORESTRY TASMANIA

Planned forest regeneration burns - Tuesday 21 March 2017

• 1 forest regeneration burn to the west of Maydena

• 1 forest regeneration burn to the west of Mount Field National Park

Smoke from these burns is forecast to travel to the southeast initially and to the west later in the afternoon and evening.

No impact is expected on local communities. Smoke may be visible from Maydena throughout the day.

For more information about our planned burns program visit the link below:

http://www.forestrytas.com.au/planned-burns

All burning planned and undertaken by the forest industry will now be displayed on the Tasmania Fire Service website at the new link below:

http://www.fire.tas.gov.au/Show?pageId=colWhatsBurningNow

Berries, burritos, burgers and home brews

The scene at Forest Secrets yesterday.

WHILE much of Tasmania sweltered yesterday, an enthusiastic crowd enjoyed cruisy tunes and tasty eats under shady gum trees at National Park. The occasion was the first Derwent Valley Tasmania Wild Food Festival.

Hosted by Forest Secrets at their scenic location nestled between Gordon River Rd and the Tyenna River just outside Mt Field National Park, the festival provided a chance to experience Tasmanian foods that are harvested and caught in the wild.

Food choices ranged from native berries, leatherwood honey, gourmet trout and eel, to grubs, choc-coated insects, wallaby and kangaroo burgers and more - all offered by local community groups or businesses.

Ice-creams in forest flavours and locally brewed soft-drinks and beers rounded out the menu and a program of live entertainment contributed to a great day out.

Robyn Britton assembling a wallaby burger with pepper berry sauce.

Patrons queuing at one of the food stalls.

Visitors listening to one of the musical acts.

Pharmacy's million dollar smile

STAFF at the New Norfolk Pharmacy were thrilled with the news that they had  to sold a wining Tattslotto ticket worth $1 million to a local customer. The pharmacy, which doubles as a Lotto agency, had its last big win about 10 years ago, owner Bel Bird told the New Norfolk News.

"The entire team at New Norfolk Guardian Pharmacy are thrilled to have sold a Division 1 prize worth $1 million to a local woman," Ms Bird said.

The happy winner, who has not bee named, plans to use her windfall to pay off her mortgage and
help her family. The woman purchased her Monday Lotto System 7 entry from the pharmacy at 6 High St and was one of only two Division 1 winning entries in Lotto draw 3642 last Monday, March 14.

Speaking to a Tattersalls official early on Tuesday morning, the excited woman said she had checked her numbers online but didn’t dare believe the win was real until the prize had been confirmed by Tatts. “I started checking my numbers and was just sitting there staring and then started thinking ‘No! There’s something wrong here!' she said.

The lucky winner had been playing Lotto for a few years using family birthdates. While she wasn’t planning to rush into anything, she was going to use her windfall to pay off the mortgage and help family members. “We’re going to figure it all out before we do anything. We’ve got people we
want to help, but we want to get it right.”

Go wild tomorrow

Click image to enlarge. More details online and on Facebook.

Wade's cricket finals tips - Week 3

HERE are local cricket writer Wade Gleeson's tips for the third week of finals in the Southern Cricket Association.

First Grade preliminary final: I'm going to go with New Norfolk I to continue on its winning way tomorrow at the Eady St ground. The Red Caps have met Wellington twice this season with the results shared one all, but New Norfolk took the last match by one wicket. Stewart Rice and Harry Booth to post big scores and Seb Wishart and Josh Dykes to clean up with the ball. The winner to take on St Annes at Cadbury's in a week's time.

Fourth Grade grand final: I can't go past New Norfolk II to take out the premiership tomorrow. This team finished on top of the ladder for a reason and it will win in a big way. New Norfolk and Bagdad have met three times this season, with the Red Caps winning on the last two occasions, the most recent being the second semi-final. Glen Williams and Chris Ashcroft to get amongst the runs and young guns Cody Morgan-Coleman and Nathan Rice to take a bag full of wickets between them. This game is at Tynwald Park, so if you're wanting to see some good cricket, head down and see all the action. The match starts at 10.30am tomorrow (Saturday).

Gretna juniors celebrate the season

Gretna Cricket Club Under 14s.

SEASON 2016/17 came to a close for the Gretna Cricket Club's junior members on Sunday when the annual trophy day was held at the Gretna War Memorial Oval. The kids and parents played a cricket match between themselves which was a great hit with everyone. Following the match, a barbecue was enjoyed by all and then trophies and photos were presented to members of the Under 13 and 14 teams.

All players showed great improvement over the 15-match season and a big thank you must go to coaches Glenn Blackwell and Darren Lennox who put in so much time and effort. This is very much appreciated by all the kids, parents and the club in general. Thanks also to all the players for the way you conducted yourselves throughout the season, well done. We hope to see you all again next season.

Wade Gleeson

Gretna Junior Development Officer

Gretna Cricket Club Undrer 13s.

Cricket finals continue

SOUTHERN CRICKET ASSOCIATION
FINALS SERIES

FIRST GRADE
New Norfolk I kept its premiership dreams alive with another nail-biting victory in the first semi-final at Abbotsfield Park on the weekend. Needing nine runs from their final over, the Red Caps got home with just one ball to spare. Chasing Claremont's 10/206 off 50 overs, New Norfolk got off to a disastrous start, losing Jake King and Harry Booth with no score on the board. Not long later they were 3/13 and looking down the barrel of a finals exit. What transpired from here showed why this team has now won its past eight matches in a row. With Seb Wishart and captain Jason Rigby at the crease, the pair went about rebuilding the innings and that they did, sharing a 77-run stand.

When Wishart departed with a valuable 31, this brought David Maddox to face the music and he did it with full face of his bat, going on to make an unbeaten 74. With Rigby now established at the crease, the pair put on an 83-run stand to get the score to 5/173 after Rigby's captains knock of 70 (with seven fours) came to and end. Nathan Eiszele fell for 4 on the first ball of the final over, Joe McCulloch went for three and the score was 7/198, with nine runs still needed from five balls. David Maddox and Rohan Heron showed cool heads and finished off the match with just one ball remaining, much to the joy of their team mates and supporters who were pretty excited to say the least. Earlier with the ball, all six Red Caps bowlers claimed wickets, with Nathan Eiszele the best with 2-25 (8) and Seb Wishart 2-28 off 10. Joe McCulloch gave great support with 2-31 (10).

In all it was a fantastic result for the team that just keeps rolling along like a train building up steam and it could only be a matter of time before that whistle blows. Just one win away from a place in the grand final, this Saturday's preliminary final will be eagerly awaited.

SECOND GRADE
Molesworth exited the finals race in straight sets after going down to the Knights at Boyer Oval by the big margin of 141 runs in Saturday's preliminary final.  Winning the toss, Molesworth sent the visitors in to bat and they posted the very good score of 9/244 off its 50 overs. In reply, Molesworth lost regular wickets and was bowled out for 113 off 31.1 overs.

Brad Coppleman was the only batsman to show much resistance with a well-made 55 (five fours, four sixes). The next-best scorers were Josh Ransley with 13 and Nick Piuselli 12 (two fours). Earlier with the ball, opener Jeremy Nichols was the best of the bowlers with 3-30 off 9 overs. It was not the result Molesworth was after, but it was a good effort to  finish on top of the ladder after the roster matches.

FOURTH GRADE
Bothwell lost to Bagdad by eight wickets in the preliminary final played at Bagdad. Bothwell won the toss and elected to bat, making 10/136 off 32.4 overs. In reply the home side reached the target with ease, finishing 2/140 off 22.2 overs. Bothwell statistics were not available at the time of writing.

Community market this Sunday

Derwent Valley
Community Market

Sunday, March 19, 2017

10am-2pm

at Derwent Valley Community House

The Avenue, Willow Court, New Norfolk

(Next market on April 23)

Norske's Maydena meet and greet tomorrow

COMMUNITY INFORMATION SESSION

 MAYDENA RESIDENTS

Thursday 16^th March from 3-5.30 pm

At: Maydena Community Hall

Norske Skog staff will be available to discuss forestry activities in the Maydena area:

Planned burning

Harvesting

Replanting activities

Come along for a chat or to have your questions answered

Fire service reminder about hot and windy weather

DUE to hot and windy conditions forecast for today and tomorrow, the Tasmania Fire Service has placed an embargo on all fire permits in the southern region until midnight tonight, March 14. The fire danger rating is expected to reach Very High in some parts of the south today and resources have been ramped up to deal with any fire starts.

"With temperatures set to reach over 30 degrees in most areas of the state today and tomorrow and the fire danger rating expected to reach Very High in the south today, we need communities to be responsible. Although it is autumn, we are not out of the bushfire season yet and there is no room for complacency," TFS deputy chief officer Gavin Freeman said.

"If vegetation fires start in the southern region today, we will automatically have a higher level of response to those incidents in order to get on top of them as quickly as possible. We are still in the statewide fire permit period and no permits will be issued in the southern region until midnight tonight," Mr Freeman said.

"We have not issued a Total Fire Ban, however people must be extremely cautious with fire this week and avoid using fire in the open today and tomorrow if at all possible. If anyone has had a fire on their property in recent days, whether it be for cooking, warmth or hazard reduction, they must take all steps to ensure it is safe."

The TFS has also issued a reminder that permits are still required for all landowners wishing to burn on their own properties. "Fuel conditions are still dry and permits are still required. The permit system is not designed to stop landowners from conducting fuel reduction burns on their properties, it is there to help us manage the number of fires in the landscape and guards against the likelihood of escaped fires," Mr Freeman said. "Those people wishing to burn on their properties should contact their local permit officer to obtain a Fire Permit first. We still need landowners to reduce fuel hazards by conducting controlled burns when the conditions allow."

• For information on obtaining a fire permit visit www.fire.tas.gov.au or phone 1800 000 699. 
• Monitor ABC local radio or www.fire.tas.gov.au to keep up-to-date with conditions. 
• Dial Triple Zero (000) to report a fire.

Today: very high fire danger

A WARNING for very high fire danger in the Upper Derwent Valley, Midlands and South-East has been issued by the Bureau of Meteorology for today, Tuesday, March 14.

Today's forecast for the Upper Derwent Valley is hot weather with cloud clearing. Light winds becoming northerly 20 to 30km/h in the early afternoon. Daytime maximum temperatures 27 to 32 degrees. Click here for updates.

Click below for detailed Derwent Valley weather forecasts.

• New Norfolk
• Mt Field
• Maydena
• Strathgordon
• Ouse
• Tarraleah

Council to meet at Maydena

MAYDENA will be the venue for the Derwent Valley Council's monthly meeting this Thursday night. The meeting will be held at the Maydena Community Hall, behind the old primary school on Kallista Rd.

At 5.30pm, a community briefing will be given by Simon French, a director of Dirt Art Pty Ltd, to provide an update on the Maydena Bike Park development.

A Derwent Valley Council community forum at 6.30pm, providing an opportunity for ratepayers and residents to discuss any issues of concern. The formal council meeting will start at 7pm and the agenda can be viewed at the council chambers in New Norfolk or on the council website.

Wild Food Festival this Sunday

Click image to enlarge. More details online and on Facebook.

THE first Derwent Valley Tasmanian Wild Food Festival will be held at National Park this Sunday. The organisers invite food-and-fun lovers from all over to head to the Derwent Valley to experience and celebrate Tasmanian foods that are harvested and caught in the wild.

Hosted by Forest Secrets just outside Mt Field National Park, the line-up will include a range of food, beverages and entertainment on offer - from native berries, to new season leatherwood honey and gourmet trout and eel, to grubs and choc-coated insects and more - all offered by Tasmanian community groups or businesses. Wild beers, weed salads and plenty of vegetarian, vegan and gluten free choices will be available too.

Sponsored by the Derwent Valley Council and Norske Skog Boyer, the festival will run from 10am-4pm. Entry costs $13 for adults (ages 16 and over) and $8 for children (ages 4-15). More details online and on Facebook.

Outdoor store opening soon

The New Norfolk Gunshop is set to move next door and be
renamed Williams Outdoors.

A YEAR after the opening of New Norfolk's big new Mitre 10 store, the original location in High St will soon be trading as an outdoors store.

New signage went up on the 41 High St premises this week, revealing that the new business will be called Williams Outdoors.

After 28 years in High St, the Williams family relocated their hardware business to purpose-built premises at 10 Charles St in March last year, but the neighbouring New Norfolk Gunshop also operated by the Williamses stayed behind.

It is understood that the gunshop will soon move from 43 High St into the vacant hardware store at 41 High St and will offer an expanded range of fishing, camping, hunting, shooting and outdoor goods, trading as Williams Outdoors.

It's stumps for junior cricket

THE final matches for the Cricket Tasmania Youth League were played on Sunday. Throughout the season there was some great cricket played right across the four teams from the Derwent Valley. It goes to show that senior cricket has a lot of talent to come through the ranks in the not too distant future.

This Sunday, March 12, the Gretna Cricket Club juniors will be holding their trophy presentations. The event will start at 11am with a family game of cricket at the Gretna War Memorial Recreation Ground. This will be followed by a barbecue around 12.30pm flowed by the trophy presentations around 1pm.

The New Norfolk Cricket Club's junior trophy day will be held on Friday, March, 17, at Tynwald Park, starting at 5.30pm.

UNDER 13
Kingston Crows 8/176 off 26.4 overs d. Gretna 7/146 off 30 overs. Batting: Jorden Conley 43 not out (four fours, two sixes), Kyle Picken 23no (three fours), Aidan Featherstone 22 (three fours), Sam Jackson 17no (two fours), Kane Lovell 10 (one four). Bowling: Kane Lovell 3-15 (3), Jack Moodie 2-12 (2.4), Sam Jackson 1-11 (3), Connor Gittus 1-14 (3).

New Norfolk 8/148 off 30 overs d. South Hobart/Sandy Bay 6/136 off 21 overs at Tynwald Park. Batting: Tom Murray 38no (six fours), Blake Sillifant 32 (three fours), Tate Browning 9. Bowling: Cameron McMaster 2-4 (3), Cale Browning (1-11 (2), Bobby Nossiter 1-16 (2), Tom Eiszele 1-17 (2), Quattro Townsend 1-20 (2).

UNDER 14
Kingborough Knights Gold 3/134 off 27 overs d. Gretna 8/128 off 33 overs at Lightwood Park.

New Norfolk 7/170 off 35 overs d. University Gold 3/108 off 35 overs at Tynwald Park. Batting: Jordon Gittus 53 (eight fours), Baine Tomlin 23 (four fours), Jake Stevenson 22 (one four, one six), Jack Gordon 19 (three fours, one six), Jake Stevenson 1-13 (4), Jordon Gittus 1-14 (4), Jack Morgan-Miller 1-14 (3).

Wade's cricket finals tips - Week 2

HERE are local cricket writer Wade Gleeson's tips for the second week of finals in the Southern Cricket Association.

First Grade First Semi-Final - New Norfolk I v Claremont at Abbotsfield Park tomorrow at 10.30am: I'm tipping New Norfolk I to continue its run and make it eight wins in a row. Both teams are one-all from the roster matches, but New Norfolk's Round 9 win over Claremont was the start of the winning run. Rohan Heron and Cody Neads to make runs and Joe McCulloch to take four wickets.

Second Grade Preliminary Final - Molesworth v Knights at Boyer Oval tomorrow at 10.30am: Molesworth I to bounce back and defeat the Knights. Although the Knights have defeated Molesworth on both occasions this season, I think Brad Coppleman will make a big score and put on a good stand with Nick Piuselli. Jeremy Nichols to take four wickets. 

Fourth Grade Preliminary Final _ Bothwell I v Bagdad at Bagdad at 10.30am tomorrow : I'll tip Bothwell I to end Bagdad's season and go on to meet New Norfolk II in the big one. Joey Eyles made 103 not out in Eighth Grade in Round 11 and will use his finals experience from his old Ouse Cricket Club and make a big score. Brother Matthew Eyles to bowl some of his classic spin and take five wickets. 

Four teams still in the cricket finals

Gretna Cricket Club president Peter Rainbird
welcomed Guy Barnett MHA when he dropped
in to the clubhouse during his fundraising bike
ride for diabetes last weekend.

AFTER Week 1 of the Southern Cricket Association Finals, four of the six local teams remain in contention. The New Norfolk club fared particularly well with two of its three teams getting a win. Of those, New Norfolk II is now just one win away from glory and Bothwell I went one step closer with a good win over Bushy Park who now bow out.

FIRST GRADE
New Norfolk I kept its finals dream alive, recording its seventh win in succession. Playing in the do-or-die elimination final and being one-all during the roster matches with Old Beach, the Red Caps came home with the goods, landing a five-wicket win. Playing at Old Beach. The home side won the toss, elected to bat and made the competitive total of 10/83 off its 50 overs. In reply New Norfolk reached the required runs with five wickets in hand and 6.5 overs remaining. Seb Wishart let the bat do the talking with a fine 66 in an innings-building score. David Maddox used his experience with a well put together 28 not out, as did Stewart Rice with a handy 27. Harry Booth made 16 and Jason Rigby 15, while Nathan Eiszele did his bit to remain 14no. With the ball, Jason Rigby led from the front with good figures of 3-29 (10) including four maidens. Joe McCulloch 3-36 (10) and Nathan Eiszele with 3-47 (10) including three maidens were just as good. Seb Wishart chipped in with 1-39 (10). This Red Caps side has come good at the pointy end of the season and if the train can keep rolling along, then anything is possible.

Adrian Eiszele congratulated Jason Rigby
on winning the Adrian Eiszele Medal.

Well done to New Norfolk's Jason Rigby who after a great match on Saturday, went on to win the Adrian Eiszele Medal that night. Rigby won with 22 votes, six clear of runner-up Cody Morgan-Coleman on 16 votes. Jake Bearman was third on 13 votes.

SECOND GRADE
Top-of-the ladder Molesworth I went down to Montagu Bay by four wickets. Batting first, Molesworth was bowled out for 166 off 42.1 overs. In reply, the Sharks finished 6/169 off 39.1 overs. Of their batsmen, only two made double figures. One was their opener who remained 103no and this was the difference. With the bat for Molesworth, Nick Piuselli continued his good form making 60 (five fours and three sixes). Captain Jamie Adams was next with 38 (four fours, one six), Brad Coppleman 15 (one four l, one six) and Brad Ransley 14 (two fours, one six). Opener Jeremy Bichols was the best of the bowlers with 2 for 10 off seven overs (four maidens).

FOURTH GRADE
New Norfolk II advanced straight to the grand final with a good close win over Bagdad in the second semi-final at Tynwald Park. The home side won the toss and sent Bagdad into bat. Th visitors made 10/146 off 46.5 overs. In reply, New Norfolk didn't get off to a good start and found itself in a big hole at 7/64. A 35-run partnership from Todd Rusher and Aaron Drew got the team to 8/99, but 48 more runs were still required. A partnership was needed and Todd Rusher 20 and Josh Walsh put on 25 before Rusher was out LBW.  With just one wicket in the sheds and needing 23 for victory, New Norfolk needed some heroes with cool heads and experience. They got it from Josh Walsh 11no (one four) and Cody Morgan-Coleman 12no with the pair putting on an unbeaten stand and getting the Red Caps over the line and into the big dance in two weeks time. Earlier, Aaron Drew made 23 (one four, one six) and Leigh 21 (two fours). With the ball, Jamie Hill stood tall for his team capturing 4-39 off 6.5 overs. Man-of-the-moment Walsh took 2-26 off his 10 overs while Nathan Rice sent down six overs to finish with the excellent figures of 1-9 off six overs. Next was Cody Morgan-Coleman and Aaron Drew who picked up one wicket each. It was mighty effort when the chips were down.

Bothwell I kept its good form rolling with a four-wicket win over Bushy Park in the first semi-final at Bothwell. Winning the toss and batting first, Bushy Park made the competitive score of 10/156 off 32 overs. In reply, Bothwell had little trouble in reaching the target, finishing 6/157 off 30.4 overs. Bothwell captain Cody Eyles set the example with a well put together 46. Nathan White did likewise making 32no. Old hand Joey Eyles opened the batting, making 24. Michael White made 21. Earlier, Matthew Eyles did his usual bit, bowling very well and taking 4-42 off nine overs. Nathan White opened the bowling and took 3-56 off his 10 overs, while Craig Pursell took 2-43 (7) and Brick Nichols 1-4 (6). It was very good win for the Bucks and they now play on for another week. No statastics were available for Bushy Park at the time of writing.

SEVENTH GRADE
Playing at Gretna, New Norfolk II was defeated by Wellington by six wickets in the first semi-final. After winning the toss, New Norfolk had first hit and that's where its finished with the Red Caps being bowled out for 96 off 31.1 overs. In reply, Wellington got the job done, finishing 4/100 off 24.5 overs. Stuart Muir did well with the ball, capturing all four wickets. No other stats were available at the time of writing. It was not the result the young Red Caps were after, but the boys should hold their heads very high as it is a big achievement making finals.

Artist gives skate park a new spark

The new mural alongside the New Norfolk Skate Park includes
the above reference to the name of the larger recreation ground.

A STRIKING new mural has been painted on the Blair St wall of the State Emergency Service headquarters, alongside the New Norfolk Skate Park.

Artist Joel Imber spent three days on site from Saturday to Monday, restoring the existing mural on the rear of the building and then painting a completely new work around the corner.

Imber was hired by the Derwent Valley Tidy Towns Committee to repair and revitalise the massive mural painted on the back of the SES building by New Norfolk High School students in 2002.

Artist Joel Imber at work on Saturday.

Now nearly 15 years old, the wall painting had been heavily vandalised, leading the local Tidy Towns Committee to seek out the multi-talented Imber who is a singer/songwriter and youth worker as well as an artist.

Tidy Towns Committee secretary Renata Lacey said while the group had a big focus on removing graffiti around the town it was also keen to promote real art and it regarded the mural restoration project as a community grant put to good use.

Mindful of the big effort put in by the original artists, Imber was respectful of their work as an example of street art from an earlier era while he removed a multitude of "tags" and other graffiti from the wall, carefully matching paint colours along the way. He also sought the input of present-day users of the park when developing the concept for the new work around the corner.

Mrs Lacey said the outcome was one mural completely salvaged plus the addition of another mural with the input of park users and the area was also properly identified with appropriate signage for Ellis Dean Reserve incorporated into the new work.

"The preservation of this piece done by the school [in 2002] is important," Mrs Lacey said. "It's a sample of another era."

The new mural on the side of the Derwent Valley State Emergency Service,
facing Blair St and adjoining the skate park.

Artist Joel Imber at work restoring the original mural on the rear of the SES
building in New Norfolk.

Governor's hometown trip for Pollie Pedal

A final briefing for Pollie Pedal participants as they prepared
to set off from New Norfolk this morning.

THE 2017 Pollie Pedal set off from New Norfolk this morning, bound for the finish line at Government House in Hobart. The three-day road cycling event started at Hadspen in northern Tasmania on Friday and headed south via the Lakes.

Now in its 12th year, Diabetes Tasmania’s Pollie Pedal helps to increase awareness of diabetes in local communities, raises funds to support people living with and at risk of diabetes, and helps to reduce the impact of diabetes on all Tasmanians.

The event is designed for cyclists seeking a challenging ride through the beautiful Tasmanian landscape and all funds stay in Tasmania to support Tasmanians. State Lyons MHA Guy Barnett is a long-time participant in the event and this year was joined by fellow Lyons MHA Mark Shelton and state Attorney-General Vanessa Goodwin along with a host of non-Pollie pedallers.

This year's course was a new one, leaving Hadspen and travelling down to the Great Lake Hotel via Longford, Cressy and Poatina. On Saturday the cyclists pedalled through the Highland Lakes area, into the Steppes State Reserve and then a lunch stop at Bothwell before travelling into the Derwent Valley to end the day at New Norfolk. A barbecue tea was held at Tynwald Park in the evening.

Tasmanian Governor Kate Warner was front and centre among the Pollie Pedal
participants as they prepared to set off from New Norfolk this morning.

For the final leg from New Norfolk to Hobart this morning, Governor Kate Warner and Mr Dick Warner joined in.

The day started with an early-morning tour of Willow Court to learn a little of the convict history of the site, as well as a sneak peek of Rodney Dunn's restaurant development.

After a final briefing, the riders set off for Hobart via the Lyell Hwy. The ride finished in the grounds of Government House.

New Norfolk grass fire

AT about 5pm today a grass fire started at Poulters Rd, New Norfolk, and quickly took hold, fuelled by a strong northeast wind.  New Norfolk Fire Brigade was first on the scene, quickly assisted by neighbouring units from Magra and Lachlan followed by additional support from Bushy Park and Gretna brigades.

"This rapid response combined with fast co-ordinated actions at the scene brought the fire under control quickly as it was threatening several properties," Leading Fire Fighter Adam Doran said. "This is a great example of the collaborative response by brigades in the Derwent Valley area who are committed to looking after their communities," he said.

The Tasmania Fire Service reminds communities that the bushfire season is not yet over and to remain vigilant when using fire outdoors. Permits are still required.

Bushfire warning downgraded

TASMANIA FIRE SERVICE

 

Bushfire Advice Message For New Norfolk

 

Issued At: 03/03/2017 6:11pm

There is a bushfire at Poulters Rd, New Norfolk.

There is no immediate threat.

Fire under these conditions can be difficult to control.

What to do:

People in New Norfolk should keep up to date by listening to ABC Local Radio or look at the TFS website at www.fire.tas.gov.au.

Well-prepared homes are defendable in these conditions.

If you are not prepared for a bushfire, think about leaving for a safe place if it gets more dangerous.

If your family has made a bushfire survival plan, check it now.

Incident number: 248755

Bushfire warning for New Norfolk

A BUSHFIRE WATCH AND ACT MESSAGE FOR NEW NORFOLK 

TASMANIA FIRE SERVICE

Issued At: 03/03/2017 5:19pm

There is an uncontrolled bushfire at Poulters Rd, New Norfolk.

This fire may put New Norfolk at high risk now. There may be embers, smoke and ash falling on New Norfolk and threaten your home earlier than the main fire.

Fire under these conditions can be uncontrollable and fast moving.

What to do:
If your home is well prepared and actively defended, it should provide shelter.
If you are going to leave, make sure you have a clear path to a safer place.
If your family has made a bushfire survival plan, use it now.
If you don't live near New Norfolk, stay away. The roads could be very dangerous.
Listen to ABC Local Radio or look at www.fire.tas.gov.au for more information.

Incident number: 248755

Community Information: For information on current road closures, please visit the Tasmania Police website: http://www.police.tas.gov.au/community-alerts/ 

For information about protecting your health during smoky conditions go to http://www.dhhs.tas.gov.au/publichealth/alerts/air/bushfire_smoke



UPDATE: Police and firefighters are at the scene of a grass fire in Poulters Rd, New Norfolk. Due to the fire possibly impacting on properties, Glebe Rd has been closed at Lachlan Rd.

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