Fire claims historic hop kiln

Fire has destroyed Hopgrove kiln at Lachlan.

A CENTURY-OLD hop kiln has been destroyed in a spectacular fire at Lachlan this afternoon. Smoke from the blaze could be seen from New Norfolk.

Fire brigades from throughout the Derwent Valley converged on the scene at Hopgrove, on Lachlan Rd, finding the large building completely engulfed in flames.

The efforts of the big team of firefighters were unable to save the building, which was completely destroyed, but they were able to prevent it from spreading to nearby houses and historic hop-picker's huts.

Fire crews extinguishing the blaze.

The old kiln was a local landmark, standing three storeys tall. The farm was producing hops in the 1870s and the drying kiln is believed to have been rebuilt in the 1920s.

Volunteers from the Lachlan Fire Brigade were on the scene soon after the fire was reported at 3.41pm. They were quickly reinforced by the New Norfolk and Magra brigades, with further support soon arriving from Bushy Park and Gretna.

The response included five heavy tankers, one medium tanker, three light tankers and two other fire service vehicles. Police and TasNetworks crews were also at the scene. No injuries were reported.

Several fire crews remain at the scene at the time of writing.

D'FAT to help in Covid-19 campaign

Amy McDonald

THE Derwent Valley Youth Future Action Team (D’FAT) has been selected to participate in a statewide Covid-19 focus group, through the Youth Network of Tasmania (YNOT).

D’FAT facilitator Matt Hill said YNOT was undertaking a youth-focused Covid-19 communications and marketing campaign. “This campaign is designed with and for young people to deliver key government and community messages on how to keep everyone safe during the Covid-19 pandemic," Mr Hill said.

Mr Hill said D'FAT member Amy McDonald was one of eight people selected for the focus group, from more than 30 applications received this month. “This statewide focus group will work with a communications expert and creative graphic designers to build the campaign,” he said.

Speaking about her selection, Miss McDonald said: "It makes me feel good to be selected for this group as it makes me feel like I can help in the Covid-19 pandemic”.

Congratulations Amy and D'FAT.

Mayor's monthly message

Councillor Ben Shaw in a scene from his mayoral message.

THIS is the text of a video message from Derwent Valley mayor Ben Shaw that was posted on the council's Facebook page on Friday.

"G'day everybody and welcome to this month's mayor's message. It's been a while since we've had just the mayor's message, but down here at the Esplanade today and in front of the fantastic new rowing club building and it looks like works are progressing fantastically and it looks like they're not far away from finishing.

"And whilst it probably won't be open any time soon due to Covid restrictions, it seems that it is coming along quite nicely and it will be a great one for the community for you know into the future, another hundred years so that's really good.

"Disappointingly down at the Esplanade as well I just want to have a bit of a quick chat about vandalism on council property on the weekend. The new toilets and changing facilities down at the Escalade were damaged. Somebody tried to set them alight and smashed off the paper dispensers, and also at Arthur Square, somebody's recently smashed off the soap dispenser.

"So I just really want to highlight and say, if people are seeing that, make sure you report it. Make sure dob the people in because it really is an extra cost on the council. And we want to provide these facilities and these services but if this sort of thing keeps happening, it makes it very difficult for us. We also do have cameras, CCTV cameras, down here at the Esplanade now so hopefully those people will be caught and brought to justice, but just a little bit of a downer there.

"Look, from the Covid stuff, I'd like to say to the community, you've done a fantastic job recently where we're starting to ease out of our restrictions, which is really great. So thank you very much for that and keep up the good work, keep up our social distancing now, and our hygiene, which is fantastic.

"So, on to the council meeting for this month. Just a couple little things that I want to highlight is the hardship policy was approved so it's a Covid-19 hardship policy and the video's on our council website now so you can just have a bit of a look about how that sort of affects you. But essentially, if you're in sort of financial hardship, you certainly apply for some help there through the council. So I just have a look at our website, call the office and get the details around that as well.

"Also, we've had a decision on the Valley Children's Centre, and the Valley Children's Centre will now officially be managed by the Derwent Valley Council again - first time for a few years. The service provider who was managing that facility recently has decided to not undertake that role any more, so council was taken it back under the DVC arm and we'll be managing that so that's just to give the continuity of service to our community that we really need, make sure we're providing the best service we can for the kids and families of the Valley. So that's another really good one that we’re excited about. That's pretty much it from the main council meeting last month.

"A few things I want to touch base on is that council has jumped on board with the Salvos Digital Doorknock. So if you normally donate to the Salvos and help the Salvos out, which we're going to need them here into the future as we recover from Covid, they're going find it hard in terms of, you know, rattling the tins and standing on the street corners and getting money.  "So go to council's Facebook page and website and the Salvos as well and have a look at their Digital Doorknock and please donate online as well because that's fantastic.

"As regarding, again, restrictions, easing as of Monday from local council facilities, we've made the decision that the council office, whilst we still need to make sure that we're keeping everybody safe, the community and the staff, we'll have measures in place as of Monday next week. We will have restricted hours for the opening of the main office of council. So for essential businesses and essential jobs that you need to speak to council about, the office will be open from 10 til 2 and we'll do a review of that again in June.

In this month's Mayor's Message, Mayor Shaw discusses some recent vandalism, the Financial Hardship Policy and changes...
Posted by Derwent Valley Council on Thursday, May 28, 2020

"We're going to put something to the June council meeting in terms of reviewing those office hours, but just make sure that we're practising that good social distancing, four people in the office at any one time and you have that 1.5m distance. We'll have all the guidelines and the markings on the floor and everything there as well, but just letting everybody know that will be open.

"As of Monday as well, sporting will resume on our open spaces and our parks. So if you have junior sport or senior sport and you and you're waiting to get back to training,  Monday will be the day that you'll be allowed back on the oval. So that's really exciting, getting people back out. But again, the clubs will have to abide by their social distancing rules and their Covid plans and each association should be handing those down as well, so to keep everybody safe.

"So that's another really exciting thing because we're starting to ease out of these restrictions. So that's really good. And in terms of everything else, we'll just keep you updated as we move forward. There's some more easing of restrictions on the 15th of June, but we'll keep you updated a little bit more about what that means for us here in the Derwent Valley from then on.

"And that's about it for me. Apart from the Valley Children's Centre, the Covid restrictions will remain in place as they have been over the last month or so. We'll let the parents know if anything changes there.

"Also, there's some climate related community grants available and you can find the details about those on council's website. So that's it for me from this month. Thanks for listening. Hope you're all enjoying the beautiful autumn weather here in the Derwent Valley. It's a magical time of the year. See you next time. Cheers."

Lions Club news: Meet Margaret Bester

Margaret Bester.

THE New Norfolk Lions Club has long been a family affair for Margaret Bester. Her Dad, Sam Wilton, is a life member, and her son Troy is the current president.

“Dad and some of my uncles joined the club in in the 1980s," Margaret said. "I helped out for quite a number of years before I joined in 2003. I used to work with Dad, often in the Chocolate Wheel caravan. After we purchased the building that is now our club, I helped with the renovations. I remember spending a lot of time sanding the wooden doors!”

Before 2000, women couldn’t join the club, although they had always been an essential part of the club through the Lions Ladies Auxiliary. Helping on fundraisers and working bees, "Lions Ladies" had their own projects and fundraisers.

“Lions Ladies used to go out once a month to have a meal and a social outing," Margaret said. They joined the roster for Meals on Wheels, held afternoon teas for residents of Corumbene and for many years held an annual party for children in the Royal Derwent Hospital.”

Born and raised in New Norfolk, Margaret completed her schooling at St Brigid’s. “In my day, you could finish high school at St Brigid’s – it went right through,” she said. She worked at dry cleaning businesses in New Norfolk and then Glenorchy for five years.

Margaret Bester presenting a new satellite phone to the local
State Emergency Service unit earlier this year.

During this time Margaret married and started her family of two sons and a daughter. The family spent a brief time in Queensland, where Margaret’s youngest son, Troy, was born before returning to New Norfolk.

Since becoming a member of New Norfolk Lions Club, Margaret has been a tireless worker, organising and contributing to fundraisers including all day morning teas, high teas, sausage sizzles, Seniors Week activities and Carols in the Park. She has been a member of the board of directors for 13 years and next year will once again take on the role of club secretary.

Lions is a big part of Margaret’s life which she clearly enjoys, “It’s getting out and being with other people – especially the Chocolate Wheel – the fun of it all! A highlight for me was when I was asked to organise the District Changeover dinner in New Norfolk in 2010. It was a challenge and an honour.”

Margaret hopes that the club will grow and continue its good work, to be there for anyone who might need help.”

If you would like to know more about the Lions Club of New Norfolk contact membership officers Greg Hudson on 6261 1329 or Troy Bester on 0401 064 172. Lions Australia. We serve (more than sausages).

Grants for SES and axemen's association

UP to $10,000 in funding will be provided to a local emergency service organisation and a sports association in community grants from Hydro Tasmania. The Hydro offers grants of up to $5000 to help fund projects by Tasmanian not-for-profit organisations making a difference for people and communities.

Eleven grants have been announced in the fourth round of funding, with the beneficiaries including the Derwent Valley unit of the State Emergency Service, and the Southern Tasmanian Axemen's Association.

The grant to the Derwent Valley SES will help this voluntary group to update its equipment and facilities, enabling it to retain more more members and to respond more effectively when they are needed the most.

The grant to the Southern Tasmanian Axemen's Association will allow it to deliver a full-program wood chopping carnival at the Derwent Valley Autumn Festival in 2021, including at least one state championship title.

To help Tasmanian communities to recover from the Covid-19 pandemic, Hydro Tasmania has now announced a special round of funding. These grants are intended to support specific initiatives that will help communities overcome difficulties associated with Covid-19. Community organisations are invited to apply for grants up to $10,000. Applications close at 5pm on Friday, June 5.

Frost warning for the Derwent Valley

BUREAU OF METEOROLOGY, TASMANIA

Frost Warning
for the Upper Derwent Valley and South East forecast districts

Issued at 3:32pm on Tuesday 26 May 2020.

Frosts with temperatures down to -2 degrees are forecast for Wednesday morning in parts of the Upper Derwent Valley and South East forecast districts

Please be aware: Temperatures at ground level can be many degrees lower than those recorded by standard weather stations, especially in calm conditions with clear skies.

No further warnings will be issued for this event.

Remembering Barry Gittus

Barry Gittus.

MAYDENA lost a well-known and loved local identity with the recent passing of Barry Gittus, who died at home on May 9. Born in December 1943, he was the elder son of Cecil Gittus and Ruby Marshall, members of two prominent Derwent Valley families.

The family, including siblings Sheila, Pauline, Winsome, Rex and Sandra, lived in a house in Kallista Rd, Maydena, and later at a farm further along the same road. Later they would move to Macquarie Plains.

Cecil Gittus worked as a rigger with Australian Newsprint Mills and his son Barry would eventually work for the company as well. The six Gittus children were educated at Maydena State School and Glenora District High School. After leaving school, Barry started a 30-year career with ANM at Maydena, remaining with the company until it withdrew from the town.

Maree and Barry Gittus.

In December 1969 Barry married Maree, and over the next 10 years they had four children: Tracey, Debbie, Michelle and Craig. The family lived in a company house in Kallista Rd, which they were later able to buy. They enjoyed many fishing and camping trips, especially to Lake Pedder.

After leaving ANM, Barry spent a year working in the hops industry and then moved into tree planting. Later, he took son Craig to work in the same field.

Speaking at Barry's funeral, his eldest daughter Tracey said her father had enjoyed a happy and sometimes mischief-filled childhood in Maydena with his brother and sisters. "Most of my memories, as his daughter, of course come from the time after he met the love of his life," Tracey said.

Barry Gittus as a young man.

"My earliest memories of my father are linked to the constant love and devotion he showed towards mum. For Dad, 'Ree' was the best thing to ever happen to him and everything for the next 50 years revolved around their love and commitment to each other.

"As a father, he was stern but when things got tough, as they always do, we knew he’d be there for us with love and understanding and never-ending support... our rock.  As a husband, father and friend he was always there whenever anyone needed him. The big broad shoulders to cry on when things seemed like they were as bad as they could get. We’re really going to miss those shoulders to cry on."

Tracey, Debbie, Michelle
and Craig.

Tracey said her father had relished his role as a grandfather to 10, and great-grandfather to one, and even during his illness these children could put the light back into his tired eyes.

She said the family would remember Barry as the man who honoured his promise to their mother to live until their 50th wedding anniversary, making her the happiest woman alive on December 22 last year.

Son Craig recalled that when he finished high school and decided not to go to college, his father took him to work with him. "I've been planting trees ever since," he said.

Barry and Maree Gittus last year.

The funeral service at the Graham Family Funeral Home in New Town  on May 14 was conducted by the Reverend Celia Hooker. Tracey and Craig delivered the eulogy and the service was watched online by 170 people.

Barry Gittus is survived by his wife Maree, their children, grandchildren and great-grandson, as well as his siblings and extended family.

New Norfolk golfers back on course

NEW NORFOLK GOLF CLUB

Competition golf has returned to New Norfolk, with the first event following the relaxation of physical distancing restrictions relating to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Saturday 23/5/2020 Stableford
A Grade:  L. Griffith 39, J. Britten 38, S. Ackerly 36.
B Grade: D. Armstrong 39 c/b, A. Watts 39, D. Lowry.
C Grade: T. Banks 39, N. Heron 38, T. Hardwick 36.

Federal Member condemns tree spikes

THE alleged "spiking" of Derwent Valley trees destined for sawlog harvesting has been condemned by the Federal Member for Lyons.

"At least nine metal bolts were discovered in logs sourced from harvesting coupes near Mt Field," Brian Mitchell MHR said on Wednesday. "Some of the bolts were discovered only once the logs were being cut, breaking saws and spinning fast-moving fragments into mills, exposing workers to danger," he said.

“There is no excuse for the spiking of trees — absolutely none,” Mr Mitchell said, noting that the  affected mills were both in his electorate. “This spiteful, selfish and stupid activity puts workers’ lives at risk and costs local sawmillers thousands of dollars in downtime and repairs," he said.

“It doesn’t matter how passionate you are in your beliefs. We have plenty of political processes available for people to make their views known about timber harvesting without resorting to potentially lethal activities such as tree-spiking. Authorities are now investigating and I hope they are able to find the culprits and prosecute them to the full extent of the law.”

Just a quick thank you to all and update on the log spiking from yesterday today we found 6 more luckily with a metal detector all were removed by police and taken for DNA testing
Posted by Karanja timbers on Wednesday, May 20, 2020

A spokesman for the Bob Brown Foundation echoed the call for a full investigation into the reported incidents of tree spikes in logs at the Karanja and McKay sawmills.

"We have a proud record of non-violent forest protest in Tasmania and unequivocally condemn the use of violence or the threat of violence. Our Foundation has today condemned this alleged incident without reservation," Bob Brown Foundation campaign manager Jenny Weber said.

"We have written to the police commissioner to ask that any investigation looks at all possibilities as to who perpetrated this incident and not just listen to the logging industry and its supporters," she said. "Bob Brown Foundation has been the direct and indirect target of the accusations relating to this tree spiking incident.  As is always the case in Tasmania, the timber industry and political representatives of both the Government and opposition parties have been quick to point the finger at forest protesters in spite of the lack of evidence or any history of the use of tree spikes in Tasmania," Ms Weber said.

"In Tasmania, there is a long history, spanning more 30 years of false allegations against forest conservationists ranging from planting a bomb to tree spiking and vandalism of machinery. All have been false. Where the perpetrators have been identified, motives have ranged from insurance fraud, infighting between contractors and disaffected forestry workers acting out of malice," she said.

Emergency funding boost for valley councils

THE two Derwent Valley councils will share nearly $1 million in new Federal Government funding for road and community projects announced today.

"Every local government across Tasmania will share in this funding, which will support local jobs and businesses across our state, and boost local economies that have been struggling under the effects of COVID-19," Senator Jonno Duniam said.

The Derwent Valley Council will receive $378,807 and the neighbouring Central Highlands Council will receive $589,128, both funded from the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program.

"This is part of our government’s national $1.8 billion investment to help councils get job-creating projects under way, quickly, and play a critical role in stimulating the economy as we recover from COVID-19," Senator Duniam said.

"The package includes the establishment of a new $500 million Local Road and Community Infrastructure Program and the bringing forward of $1.3 billion of the 2020-21 Financial Assistance Grant payment. The new program is based on the successful Roads to Recovery program and will enable Tasmania’s 29 councils to deliver priority projects with a focus on upgrades and maintenance to local roads and community infrastructure," he said.

"This year is one of the most challenging that we will ever experience, and it is important that as we pave a road to recovery that we do this as a community and our local governments critical to this. Accelerating the upgrade of local infrastructure projects like playgrounds, halls and roundabouts is going to be critical in supporting local jobs in the surrounding communities and the economy across our entire state.

"This will also have ongoing social benefits for our communities by helping us all to stay active and connected, with support also provided for upgrades such as walking paths, bike tracks, and picnic and barbecue facilities."

Senator Duniam said guidelines for the program would be provided directly to councils by the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Communications.

Local Government minister  Mark Shelton said the Local Road and Community Infrastructure Program would allow local councils to support jobs and businesses by delivering projects within the next 12 months such as roads, bridges, bicycle and walking paths, street lighting, picnic and barbecue shelters and skate parks.

"Today’s announcement complements the Tasmanian Government’s $150 million No Interest Loan Scheme, which opened in April to enable councils to develop or upgrade local government infrastructure and to manage impacts of Covid-19. Our councils have a critical role in responding to the impacts of COVID-19, and we thank them for their efforts to support the Tasmanian community during these challenging times," Mr Shelton said.

Guidelines for staying Covid-safe

Click image to enlarge. Click here for the impact of COVID-19 on local business.

Lions Club news: meet Barry McDougall

New Norfolk Lions Club member Barry McDougall.

BARRY McDougall has been a member of the New Norfolk Lions Club since 2007. He laughs as he remembers the “hell of a good time that we’ve had over the years.”

Encouraged by friends to join Lions, Barry enjoys working on Lions projects. “There’s satisfaction in doing jobs and helping people out. We’ve done a lot of projects around the place, not only in New Norfolk," he said.

"Five or six years ago, we did up a house at Molesworth. Clennetts Mitre 10 sponsored it all and provided the materials and the tradies. We provided the labour. That was one of our biggest projects. In Gretna, for years, no-one could get up the hill to the war memorial. It was too rocky and steep. K&D donated bricks and we built the steps.

Barry says one of the best things he's seen as a member was when he and Mike Berry took the Lions train to a sports carnival at St Leonard’s Sports Centre near Launceston, and the reaction of children from the St Giles disability service arrived. "It was wonderful. They had never seen anything like it. I can still see their faces. Gee, they were happy!”

Barry grew up on a dairy farm at Ringarooma in the state's North-East. After leaving school, his working life began in the timber industry and then an opportunity to work for the Hydro came up.

Barry then lived and worked at Tarraleah for 34 years. During that time, he married Jean and raised a family of three daughters. In 1993, when many Hydro staff at Tarraleah were made redundant, Barry and Jean, moved to New Norfolk where he again worked in the timber industry until his retirement in 2006.

These days Barry is on the Lions Club's board of directors and can be seen selling raffle tickets in High St, New Norfolk, and joining in at other fundraisers. He appreciates the value of the Lions Club to the community, “I’d like to see another 10 or 12 younger members in the club, so that our work in the community continues for decades to come”.

If you would like to know more about the Lions Club of New Norfolk contact membership officers Greg Hudson on 6261 1329 or Troy Bester on 0401 064 172. Lions Australia. We serve (more than sausages).

Council eases coronavirus restrictions

RESTRICTIONS on access to local parks and playgrounds have been eased by the Derwent Valley Council in accordance with the State Government's "Roadmap to Recovery" from the coronavirus pandemic.

Coinciding with yesterday's partial relaxing of emergency regulations around public gatherings, the council announced that its parks, playgrounds and public toilets had reopened, with a maximum of 10 people allowed at one time, and physical distancing to be observed.

LOCAL IMPACT OF COVID-19

Responding to a question on Facebook, a council spokesman said park and facility users were asked to observe signposted instructions about physical distancing and the 10-person limit. "We ask that people show consideration for others and move on after using the facilities so that other people can enjoy them as well," they said.

"Council does not have the resources to provide additional cleaning or disinfecting of playground or exercise equipment. Users are encouraged to practise hand hygiene and wipe equipment with sanitiser wipes before and after use."

Council-owned barbecue areas remain closed until further notice, along with council offices and public halls.

The council's monthly meetings remain closed to the public. Members of the public wishing to put questions to this week's meeting can email them to mpearce@dvc.tas.gov.au up to 5.30pm this  Thursday, May 21. Public Question Time forms are available from the council website. Agenda documents are available via the same link.

At the last council meeting, near unanimous support was given to a community support package with the following elements:

• Suspend all debt recovery actions against community members for the remainder of this financial year (for outstanding rates and charges or outstanding invoices) with the exception  of where council has endorsed legal proceedings to commence  (DN 269/2019) and regulatory enforcement action (i.e. MPES for Infringement Notices); ;
• Cease to charge interest on outstanding rates and charges until 30 June 2021;
• Encourage payment arrangements to enable residents to apply to repay their rates and charges over an extended period in response to financial hardship;
• Waive the two week notification period for the Valley Childrens Centre for when a child is  being withdrawn from our childcare service and the associated childcare fees and hold existing childcare places for parents for the remainder of this financial year.
• Waive dog registration fees until 30 June 2021 while maintaining the requirement to register all dogs.
• Waive the fee to obtain a Kennel Licence until 30 June 2021 while maintaining the requirement to obtain the licence.
• Waive fees for food licences and health inspections until 30 June 2021 while maintaining the licencing and registration requirements.
• Review the capacity of lessees of council properties to continue to meet lease or license fees and suspend debt recovery action in the meantime.
• Endorse in principle a 0% increase to rate or waste service charges for 2020/2021.
• Endorse in principle the community grants program being refocussed to support local business and not for profit recovery or conversion to a digital environment or circular economy during 2020/2021.

The council did not adopt the Local Government Association's recommendation to pay its local creditors within 14 days regardless of their trading terms. Cr Luke Browning declared a pecuniary interest in the community support package and did not take part in the discussion. Cr Paul Belcher was absent from the meeting, telling the New Norfolk News that he had not been sent the necessary codes to log in to the online meeting.

Video recordings of the last two council meetings can be seen here.

Local office to manage former Norske forests

SFM managing director Andrew Morgan, left, with director
David Wise.

THE Tasmanian-based company selected to manage the former Norske Skog forest estate in southern Tasmania will open an office in New Norfolk.

The State Government has welcomed the selection of Hobart-based SFM Forest Products to manage the the former Norske Skog forests, now owned by New Forests and dubbed the Lenah Estate.

"As part of the deal, SFM will open a new office in New Norfolk and employ 28 Tasmanians full-time, with more than 100 sub-contracted truck drivers, plant operators and support services providers also employed," Primary Industries and Water minister Guy Barnett said on Friday.

"Australian-based international forestry investor New Forests purchased the forest assets from Norkse," he said. "New Forests went through an intensive and competitive tender process, with local Hobart-based company SFM the successful proponent.

"This new agreement will see up to 400,000 tonnes of pine harvested annually, with the majority still going to the Norske Boyer mill. SFM has stated they will look to employ a number of the staff who previously managed the estate."

Now to be called Lenah Estate Pty Limited, the Tasmanian plantations were bought by Australian-based international forestry investor New Forests from Norske Skog in February this year. “We are delighted to win this contract to manage such an extensive and quality resource that supports the Boyer mill, the Derwent Valley and wider Southern Tasmanian community and local farmers,” SFM managing director Andrew Morgan said on Friday.

“SFM has a strong track record in plantation management, having multiple  management contracts interstate, so to be successful in our home state is very gratifying,” Mr Morgan said. The Lenah Estate land area under management by SFM is approximately 27,150 hectares across south-central Tasmania, predominantly the Derwent Valley.

It includes 50 joint-venture plantation projects with private landowners and Sustainable Timber Tasmania. Some 18,000ha or 97.5% of the 18,500 plantable hectares is radiata pine softwood plantations. Around 350,000-400,000 tonnes will be harvested annually, with the majority going to the Boyer mill. Lenah Estate will replant 500-1000 hectares per year.

SFM will open an office in New Norfolk employing a core team of eight full-time employees, supported by the broader SFM business with more than 20 full-time equivalent employees and more than 100 FTE sub-contracted truck drivers, plant operators and support services.

New Forests operations director Matt Crapp said the company had been attracted to SFM’s proposal due to its commitment to local staffing, its technical capacity and its local knowledge. “New Forests looks forward to working with SFM on the long-term management of the Lenah Estate, including its ongoing supply to the Boyer Mill and our shared intentions that the Estate maintains third-party forest management certification,” he said.

“New Forests aspire to build on the positive relationship that Norske Skog has had with its contractors, joint venture landowners and the general community. We see opportunities for continued investment in this significant plantation asset to enhance its long-term value and have asked SFM to consult widely with stakeholders to develop and refine these plans.”

SFM manages two other plantation projects for New Forests, consisting of both hardwood and softwood species in Western Australia, South Australia and Victoria. Lenah Estate will be a significant addition to the SFM portfolio, which includes harvesting, haulage and export of more than 500,000 tonnes of plantation timber per annum.

Hydrowood - the world-first operation salvaging Tasmanian specialty timbers standing underwater for decades - is a wholly-owned subsidiary of SFM.

SFM is headquartered in Hobart, and has regional offices in Launceston, Mt Gambier in South Australia, and Tauranga in New Zealand.

Vehicle crimes on the rise in April

POLICE report that a number of vehicle-related crimes occurred in the New Norfolk area last month.

The April crime report provided by Tasmania Police to the New Norfolk Neighbourhood Watch also included references to firewood being stolen from the Peppermint Hill Reserve on April 3 and 13.

A blue Hyundai i30 hatchback car, registration B70SG, was stolen from a driveway at Lyell Hwy, Hayes, overnight on April 7.

Overnight on April 6, batteries were stolen from an electronic signage board at Boyer Rd, Boyer.

There was an an attempted vehicle burglary in Pearson St, New Norfolk, at 6.40pm on April 13. The car alarm was activated but no-one was seen. Quarry St was the scene of an attempted vehicle burglary when a car door lock was damaged by someone trying to get in, during the week leading to April 15.

The front door of a house in Derwent Terrace, New Norfolk, had its lock badly damaged on April 15, resulting in the door not being able to be opened by the owner.

The New Norfolk Laundrette in High St was the scene of a break-and-enter on April 17, with money stolen from various equipment and vending machines. A person has been identified and charged.

Five "Great White" light bars were stolen from trucks parked in a yard off Hamilton Rd, New Norfolk, on April 20. Access was gained to the yard but cutting a hole in the fence.

A green Nissan Patrol, registration FC3361, was stolen from the road outside a house in Derwent Terrace, New Norfolk, on April 26.

Police would like to hear from any member of the public who may have witnessed any of the above incidents or who have observed any suspicious activity in their neighbourhood. If you have reported a crime that is not included in this list please contact Tasmania Police on 131 444.

For more information about New Norfolk Neighbourhood Watch visit its website or Facebook. To anonymously report crime or suspicious behaviour in your area, call 1800 330 000 or www.crimestopperstas.com.au. To contact police in an emergency, call Triple Zero (000).

Traill's tobacco tin a hot item online

This tin of tobacco sold in New Norfolk is attracting strong
interest in an online auction.

ONLINE auction bidders are going crazy over an antique tobacco tin with a connection to New Norfolk.

Measuring 10.5cm by 8cm and 2cm deep, the tin was listed for sale on eBay on May 13, with a starting price of $60.

Keen interest among five bidders has seen the price skyrocket to $1875, with three days remaining.

Once containing "a choice blend of fine cut tobacco", the two-ounce tin bears a paper seal advertising that it was only obtainable from H.W. Traill in High St, New Norfolk.

The Traill family was in business in New Norfolk from about 1922 and it owned property in High St until the middle of last year. Mr H.W. Traill initially operated a small business in the town and then took on a general store in High St, which was advertised as the "Model Store". The tobacco tin being sold on eBay is labelled "Model Special."

In 1935 the general store was sold to S.P. English. The building was later demolished to make way for the town's Coles variety store, and is now occupied by St Vincent de Paul.

In 1936 Mr Traill was working as an estate agent in High St, with the phone number Norfolk 111. In the 1940s the business traded as H.W. Traill and Son, with the additional service of being a booking agent for Australian National Airways (later Ansett).

The travel agency operated for many decades, extending into a third generation of the family before being sold. The premises, at 43 High St, remained in the family until 2019.

UPDATE: The tobacco tin sold for $2946.68.

Lions Club news: meet Greg Hudson

Greg Hudson.

Greg Hudson is a well-known and popular Lions Club member having lived and worked in New Norfolk all of his life. “I’ve been a member of the New Norfolk Lions Club for over 40 years," Greg said when being profiled for this column.

"Bob Sproule invited me to join and I haven’t regretted a day of it. During that time, I have held nearly all club positions," he said. Greg has been an energetic and hardworking Lion and has helped on countless working bees and fundraisers and attended many state and district Lions conferences.

He is well known in New Norfolk as a man of integrity and compassion who has, for decades, supported community members when it is most needed. He is a former councillor, football club president and member of many committees and boards, past and present.

When Greg left school, he completed an apprenticeship and worked as a men’s hairdresser for seven years before having a career change. For the next 43 years, he worked in the local clothing store that began as Ron Williams Wenswear and later became Les Lees and finally Glasser and Parker.

While working in the clothing store, Greg became the New Norfolk representative for Graham Family Funerals, a role which has has now fulfilled for 31 years. “I’ll continue to do this while I have good health," he said. "I enjoy helping families and being there for them in times of need and stress. Sometimes it’s difficult but always very rewarding.”

Greg enjoys being a Lion because members can help different people in the community through the club's activities, as all funds go back into the community, such as helping needy families. "The camaraderie is also important to me," he said. "We can raise funds individually but sharing it with others makes it enjoyable.”

Greg’s proudest moment as a Lion was when the local club hosted the District Convention in 1988. “It was one of our greatest achievements," he said. "The feedback indicated that it was the best organised convention that people had attended. It was a great credit to our club and the community.”

These days Greg, is on the club's board of directors and his role is organising the purchase and sale of Christmas cakes, organising the annual Carols in the Park and as a membership director. “I have been organising Carols in the Park for 10 years and from the club’s point of view they are getting better each year," he said.

"Like all organisations, it’s getting difficult to attract members because of work, family commitments and finances. For Lions, work and family come first and then members support activities and events in any way that works for them. We are always willing to sit down and talk to people who are interested in finding out more. So, if you have questions please get in touch by phoning me on 0418 127 439," Greg said.

Lions Australia. We serve (more than sausages)

Partial opening for lakes, parks and Corumbene

CORUMBENE Care, the Derwent Valley Council and Hydro Tasmania have today announced a partial reopening of facilities in line with the State Government's "Roadmap to Recovery" from the Covid-19 pandemic.

In New Norfolk the council has reopened the Esplanade and Tynwald Park for exercise purposes. The playgrounds at both locations remain closed. The clifftop walk between Tynwald Park and the Esplanade has also reopened, but the footbridge at the Wetlands is closed for repairs.

"Please note the footbridge at the bottom of Tynwald Park remains closed for upgrade works so if you enter the wetlands from the clifftop area, you will need to go back up and return the same way," a council spokesman said. New gravel pathways and wheelchair accessible ramps are part of this upgrade.

COVID-19 IMPACT IN THE DERWENT VALLEY

All other Derwent Valley Council parks and reserves are now open for exercise including fishing, dog walking and hiking. Exercise remains limited to two people, except for members of the same household.

Corumbene nursing home in New Norfolk also reopened to visitors today, with the following limits in place to continue to protect residents from the coronavirus:

• Visitors must call ahead to arrange a time;
• One visit (up to two people) per resident each week;
• Visits to be in the resident's own room, or in a designated area;
• All visitors must have had an influenza vaccination.

Corumbene will permit additional visits for the purpose of end-of-life support, or if requested by the home to provide essential support to reduce a resident's distress or confusion as a result of a medical condition.

Corumbene will screen all visitors on arrival and people should not visit if they have a temperature higher than 37.5 degrees, or if they have been overseas or interstate in the previous 14 days, or if they have been in contact with a person known or reasonably suspected to have Covid-19. Click here for more information.

Lakes managed by Hydro Tasmania have reopened for day-use by people who live in the municipality in which the lake is located. Other recreation and exercise on Hydro Tasmania land is limited to those places within 30km of your primary residence. Social distancing, hygiene and gathering size restrictions apply.

Hydro Tasmania lakes and associated facilities (including boat ramps) are now open to the public for day use in the Upper and Lower Derwent Valley, Central Plateau, West Coast, North-West and North. Hydro campgrounds and toilet blocks in those areas remain temporarily closed to the public until further notice. Visitor sites also affected include: Waddamana Power Station Heritage Site, Lake Margaret Power Station tours, Trevallyn Power Station tours and Tarraleah Penstock Lookout access. Click here for more information.

Restrictions on gatherings remain in effect in Tasmania to help slow the spread of Covid-19 in the community. Tasmanians should stay at home unless they need to be away from home:

• shopping for supplies or services; or
• undertaking personal exercise; or
• attending medical, or health care, appointments or for medical treatment; or
• providing social support, or care, to another person (including compassionate needs, or to facilitate shared parenting arrangements, guardianship or care arrangements for another person); or
• attending school or study, if unable to be performed at the person’s home; or
• attending work, or volunteering, if unable to be performed at the person’s home; or
• seeking veterinary services for an animal; or
• providing reasonable measures, within the meaning of the Animal Welfare Act 1993, required to ensure the welfare of an animal that the person has in his or her care or charge; or
• performing essential maintenance, or security inspections, of another premises owned, or occupied, by the person; or
• launching a boat, if the boat is launched within the municipal area in which the primary residence of the person is located; or
• attending another location if you have a reasonable excuse, in the opinion of the Director of Public Health or his or her delegate, to attend the location.

Click here to enlarge.

These rules apply to indoor and outdoor gatherings, with a rule of two persons to be applied, except for gatherings of household members, those in shared parenting arrangements, guardianship arrangements or other care arrangements.

This means in the home, only two extra visitors are permitted at any one time (this may increase to five visitors from May 18). Outside the home, you may be with the people who live in your household, or if leaving the home alone, you may meet one other person to comply with the maximum group size of two people.

There are exemptions to the two person rule, including to allow more than two people in a private vehicle, in passenger transport, on a ferry service or vessel, at a medical, health or veterinary service, for the purpose of emergency services, at permitted businesses (eg supermarkets, pharmacies), at work (except if your venue or service is prohibited) and at school, childcare or educational institutions.

For more information about the Roadmap to Recovery visit https://coronavirus.tas.gov.au/families-community/roadmap-to-recovery

Mt Field still out of reach from New Norfolk

MT FIELD remains out of reach of most Derwent Valley residents following today's partial reopening of national park and reserves as the State Government starts to relax the social distancing rules that have so far stopped a widespread outbreak of coronavirus in Tasmania.

From today, Tasmanians will be able to undertake exercise at national parks and reserves, including beaches in their local area.

But residents can only use parks and reserves that they can walk, run or cycle to, or if this is not possible, can drive to within 30km of their place of residence. The distance between New Norfolk and National Park is 47km.

Residents must still maintain and observe physical distancing rules, limit groups to two people except for household members, and move on once they have completed their exercise.

COVID-19 IMPACT IN THE DERWENT VALLEY

This limited access to national parks and reserves follows the closure of all PWS reserved lands declared under the Nature Conservation Act 2002 on March 26, to prevent non-essential travel during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Click image to enlarge.

National Park visitor centres, cafes and campgrounds still remain closed until further notice.

Even with this partial opening of parks and reserves, the State Government says people who don’t need to leave their home to go to work, go to school, get supplies, provide care or exercise, should still stay at home.

From today, people can exercise at parks and reserved lands managed by the Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service. This includes National Parks, State Reserves, Nature Reserves, Game Reserves, Conservation Areas, Nature Recreation Areas and Regional Reserves, provided they are within 30km of your home.

In New Norfolk, this should see the reopening of the Derwent Cliffs State Reserve, which connects the Derwent Esplanade with the Tynwald Park wetlands. The Derwent Valley Council is expected to make its own announcements today.

Full details about the partial reopening of national parks and reserves can be found here.

Barking dogs alert homeowners to housefire

FIRE caused $300,000 damage to a house at Hayes on Saturday night. The Tasmania Fire Service says the blaze was caused by a build-up of bird's nests in a wall cavity near a wood heater flue.

Crews from the New Norfolk and Magra fire brigades were called to the Lyell Hwy fire just after 6pm on Saturday, finding the roofspace fully engulfed in flames on arrival.

"The owners of the property were alerted to the fire by their dogs barking and were able to escape unharmed before calling Triple Zero," fire investigator Adam Doran said.

"At this time of year, TFS encourages property owners to conduct maintenance on their chimneys and flues, and this includes checking the area under the eaves and in the roofspace to ensure there is nothing flammable that can catch alight," Station Officer Doran said.

"The brick cottage-style two bedroom house had working smoke alarms and the damage is estimated to be $300,000," he said.

Premier's roadmap to Covid-19 recovery

Click image to enlarge.

PLANS for a staged return to normal life following the coronavirus crisis have been released by the state government.

Premier Peter Gutwein yesterday released the government's Roadmap to Recovery, which he said would outline the process to rebuild a stronger Tasmania.

"While I thank all Tasmanians for following the rules and helping to suppress the virus, we know it isn’t going to go away overnight," Mr Gutwein said. "It is something we are going to have to live with for many months to come.

"That is why we have put in place our four safeguards – more testing, better tracing, rapid response, and COVIDSafe plans in order to gradually ease restrictions," he said.

COVID-19 IMPACT IN THE DERWENT VALLEY

Mr Gutwein said Tasmania would determine its own timeline to return to normality after the restrictions imposed in the effort to limit the spread of Covid-19. "We will keep marching to the beat of our own drum, and our pathway back will be gradual, careful, and always based upon the health advice we have at that time.

"Tasmania’s 'Roadmap' has three main stages, and a few milestones along the way. Most importantly the easing of restrictions will continue to be based on Public Health advice and may change depending on Tasmania’s circumstances," he said.

From Monday, May 11:

• Funerals will increase from 10 to 20 attendees;
• Aged care visits will move to one visit per week and no more than two visitors, managed by the facility;
• National parks and reserves will open to residents for exercise within 30km of their home;
• TasTAFE campuses and training facilities may open for small groups of students only attending practical learning and assessment sessions.

From Monday, May 18 (subject to Public Health advice):

• Gatherings increase to 10 people (except visitors to households for any purpose which is capped at 5 people) for indoor and outdoor, including real estate, small religious gatherings and weddings;
• Funerals can extend to 30 people outdoors;
• Restaurants and cafes in all settings (including restaurants in pubs, clubs, hotels and RSLs) open and seat patrons of up to 10 people at a time. Seated table service only with social distancing;
• Border controls will remain in place, except Tasmanian residents can quarantine in their principal residence if it is suitable;
• Community and local government facilities and libraries will be allowed to open for up to 10 people; 
• Park exercise equipment and playgrounds, pools and boot camps open for up to 10 people.

From Monday, May 25:

• Kindergarten to Year 6 students return to learning at school;
• Year 11 and 12 students at extension schools and colleges return to learning at school; and
• Aged care visits will move to national restrictions of two visitors, once a day.

From June 9:

• High School students from Year 7 to 10 return to school for learning.

On June 13:

• Racing will resume, subject to a review and risk assessment by Public Health

Stage Two, from June 15, subject to Public Health advice:

• Gatherings will increase to 20 people at a time for indoor and outdoor area  including restaurants/cafes, cinemas, museums, galleries, historic sites, religious gatherings and weddings;
• Funerals can have up to 50 attendees;
• Accommodation will be unlimited;
• Camping, overnight boating and shacks open;
• Open homes and auctions can resume with up to 20 people;
• Border controls remain in place;
• Gyms and boot camps will increase to 20 people;
• Beauty services (including tattoo, nails, waxing, facials and tanning) can open for up to 20 people;
• Park exercise equipment and playgrounds open for up to 20 people;
• Outdoor community sport resume, with up to 20 athletes/personnel (guided by the AIS proposed framework);
• Indoor sport and recreation, including pools with up to 20 people with no spectators (guided by the AIS proposed framework).

Stage Three, from July 1, subject to Public Health advice:

• Gatherings: 50-100 (indoor/outdoor) with the maximum allowable number to be determined by Public Health;
• Aged care homes will be allowed 5 visitors and multiple visits;
• Border controls will remain in place;
• Consider opening bars, night clubs and casinos/gaming;
• Markets to open, subject to Public Health advice;
• Food courts and food vans at markets open;
• Spas and bathhouses reopen;
• Day trips and camping for school groups allowed;
• Outdoor community sport^ to resume, with numbers to be guided by Public Health (guided by the AIS proposed framework);
• Indoor sport and recreation, including pools with numbers to be guided by Public Health (guided by the AIS proposed framework);

Throughout these steps, vulnerable people will be encouraged to stay home and protect their health. This includes:

• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people 50 years and older with one or more chronic medical conditions;
• People 65 years and older with chronic medical conditions;
• People 70 years and older;
• People with compromised immune systems and people with a disability.

"Gradually getting back to our normal way of life, while keeping the virus suppressed is going to be the hardest part of this fight," Mr Gutein said. "Stick to the rules, wash your hands regularly, maintain social distancing of a minimum of 1.5 metres when you go out and download the COVIDSafe app.

"We need to work together to recover gradually and responsibly, and I’m confident we will get our way of life back and we will rebuild a stronger Tasmania," he said.

Four Covid-19 cases in the Valley

UPDATED: THERE have been four confirmed cases of Covid-19 in the Derwent Valley municipality since the start of the coronavirus pandemic, according to data released yesterday by Public Health Services.

No information was provided other than the bare numbers, and there is no indication of how many of the local cases remain active. None have been reported in the Central Highlands.

In a statement, acting director of public health Scott McKeown said the local government area of a confirmed case was determined by the person's residential address. The figures do not include three cases of people from interstate who were managed in Tasmania after testing positive.

"This data will be updated on a weekly basis," Dr McKeown said. "At all times, Public Health Services takes the confidentiality of patients extremely seriously, and some locality data may be withheld if it unnecessarily compromises a patient’s privacy.

"There are eight Local Government Areas that have not had a confirmed case in a resident," he said.

No new coronavirus cases were identified yesterday*, leaving the state's total at 223 cases, which includes 168 people who have recovered. There are 42 active cases, and there have been 13 deaths.

* The Tasmanian Government this morning advised that one positive test result was returned last night in the North-West, meaning there was one confirmed case for the day, bringing the total to 224.

CASES IN THE SOUTH

• Kingborough 12
• Hobart 11
• Huon Valley 6
• Clarence 5
• Derwent Valley 4
• Glenorchy 3
• Brighton 2
• Sorell 1

NORTH

• Launceston 20
• Northern Midlands 3
• Meander Valley 2
• West Tamar 2
• George Town 1

NORTH-WEST

• Burnie 63
• Central Coast 35
• Waratah-Wynyard 23
• Devonport 12
• Circular Head 7
• Latrobe 4
• Kentish 2
• West Coast 2

Tasmania remains in a declared State of Emergency due to the pandemic, with everyone in the state required to remain at home to prevent the spread of infection, unless it is necessary to go out for work, schooling, medical appointments, personal exercise or shopping for supplies, among other exemptions. 

For the latest information about the Covid-19 situation in Tasmania, visit www.coronavirus.tas.gov.au.

Mayor: Gazette is the official news source

Cr Ben Shaw.

THE Derwent Valley Gazette was today declared to be the official source of news about the appointment of the Derwent Valley Council's new general manager.

In a Facebook post this morning, mayor Ben Shaw shared a media release which he described as the "official/factual" details of the new appointment, and said more could be read in the "official story in the Derwent Valley Gazette today."

The Gazette was granted exclusive access to the same media release earlier in the week, enabling it to be included in today's issue, which was printed last night. This was despite a council spokesman telling the New Norfolk News that the media release would not be available until today.

The media release states that the new chief executive, Dean Griggs, will start work with the council on May 25. "With his appointment being unanimous amongst my fellow councillors, Dean knows that he will receive support and encouragement in helping us advance in serving our wonderful community," Cr Shaw said in the official statement.

The former general manager, Greg Winton, this year parted ways with the council only 13 months after his new four-year contract was unanimously ratified by then newly-elected council.

Lions Club news: Meet Ricky Jackson

Lions Club stalwart Ricky Jackson.

RICKY Jackson is a familiar figure in New Norfolk, a local personality who loves to help out in the community and who proudly states that he has “lived in the same house my whole life”.

Ricky‘s generous volunteering led him to be an honorary member of the New Norfolk Lions Club for two years before he joined. “Whenever Greg Hudson asked me to help with anything, I was glad to do it," Ricky said. In particular, he would often help out with raffles and selling Christmas cakes.

Since he officially joined the club eight years ago, Ricky has taken over the responsibility for organising raffles and he also helps with fundraising at sausage sizzles and the entry gates at Baskerville raceway. This year, he is third vice-president of the New Norfolk Lions.

Ricky is most proud of the work that the Lions Club does to help disadvantaged children particularly when it used to operate the Lions train ride. "The kids used to love it, especially the kids in wheelchairs," he said.

"We could take three or four wheelchairs at a time, as well as filling the seats with excited kids who jumped on. It made the kids smile and their parents happy. We used to take it to all the shows - local and further away like Orford and Glenorchy.”

Volunteering began for Ricky at 13 years of age when his Dad was president of the Lachlan Football Club and his late Mum was Treasurer. Ricky helped out with whatever needed doing including umpiring. Before he was 24 years of age he had umpired an impressive 150 reserve-grade games.

When the Lachlan Football Club closed, Ricky’s love of the sport motivated him to join the New Norfolk District Football Club. For the next 20 years he would be seen volunteering at the Boyer Oval entry gates for Eagles home games.

Ricky is often seen these days volunteering at the New Norfolk Hotel where for 14 years he has helped out with whatever needs doing such as distributing advertising leaflets or counting the till at the end of the day.

For Ricky, volunteering is a way of life. “It gets me out of the house and talking to people," he says. "I’ve made friends. It’s the friendship and fellowship that I enjoy most in the Lions Club.”

If you would like to know more about the Lions Club of New Norfolk contact membership officers Greg Hudson on 6261 1329 or Troy Bester on 0401 064 172. Lions Australia. We serve (more than sausages).

Council's new general manager revealed

Dean Griggs.

A VICTORIAN local government executive is the new general manager of the Derwent Valley Council.

Councillors last week voted unanimously to offer the position to Dean Griggs, whose roles at the City of Melbourne included social investment manager, community safety and wellbeing manager, and municipal recovery manager.

In 2018, as the Melbourne council's business and tourism manager, he was a guest speaker at the Australia-China Business Council's forum on "The Future of Retail: Increasing the Chinese Visitor Spend."

He has also served on the Royal Children's Hospital Board's population health committee. He worked at the City of Darebin from 2000-2010, holding various roles including family youth and community support manager, and acting director of communities and culture. His earlier work was in the community mental health sector.

He has a bachelor of behavioural science and a graduate diploma in health promotion from La Trobe University, and a masters of business administration from Swinburne University of Technology.

The council will officially announce Mr Griggs' appointment later today via media release.