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16 Pages·2016·2.68 MB·English

ROCKABILLY TASMANIA’S SPOILS
RETROS BLACK GOLD SHARED
Retro Rockers strut their On the hunt Hawks and Suns
stuff at the Italian Club with truffle dog Bundi come away with a win

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Meander Valley Gazette
FREE! Every Month
July 2016 Meander Valley Gazette Your independent community paper
Photo by: Mike Moores
End of the line
at Kimberley
The Kimberley Rail Bridge, first constructed in 1885, has a permanent heritage listing and is now undergoing substantial repairs as the result of June’s torrential rains.
By Marguerite McNeill of destruction across The western end of the link across the state’s The Walls of Jerusa- Mersey River, west of
Tasmania. the municipality was North West. Repair is lem, a favourite walking Mole Creek.
WE ALL KNEW there Weeks later the the hardest hit with six underway and TasRail track, also remains inac- As well as losing
was a storm coming frightening scenes are bridges washed away (3 expects the bridge to cessible. Road closures ninety head of Durham
and that it was go- still uppermost in many at Liena, 2 at Mole Creek re-open by mid-July. in the area have resulted Shorthorn cattle, almost
ing to be big. We just people’s minds. and 1 at Caveside), leav- Flood waters have in a sharp drop in visitor half his breeders, his
didn’t know how wide- Across the Mean- ing some locals stranded also forced the closure numbers to Mole Creek, land was wrecked.
spread and devastating der Valley everyone with no road access out. of Marakoopa Cave, one a preferred stop on “It was absolute-
it would be. has a story to tell about Landslips cut road- of the district’s major the tourist route to ly smashed, he said.
When the storm front flooding in their area. ways at Liena, Old Gad attractions as it sus- Cradle Mountain. The place was carved
hit early last month Sorting through those Hill and Oliver’s Road. tained significant dam- The raging waters apart.” Mr Durham
the rain kept coming experiences is almost Floodwaters, laden age to its infrastructure. caused major devas- who estimates his loss-
and rivers kept rising until as difficult as sift- with tonnes of timber, The cave is currently tation for beef farmer es at around $1million is
a deluge of flood ing through the huge caused major damage to being assessed but it is Denis Durham whose angry at being caught so
waters rose and swelled, amounts of debris the a span of the Kimberley too early to know when property “The Den” unawares.
leaving a massive wake floods left behind. Railway Bridge, severing it will again open. lies on the edge of the Continued on Page 12...
2 July 2016 NEWS Meander Valley Gazette
Feasting and friendship
In My Opinion... EST.
2013
By Joanne Eisemann The ever-popular, funni- CHRISTMAS IN July was EWF is a Tasmania-wide
Managing Editor est home video shows are all the theme for this month’s social eating program that has
According to research, about someone, often chil- Eating With Friends (EWF) been running for 15 years. Meander
laughter is not something dren, meeting misfortune. program at Deloraine House. It’s all about enjoying
we have conscious control So when Eddie McGuire The halls were decked and a meal, bringing people
over. The impulse apparently says he is willing to pay sums carols played in the back- together, making friends and
Valley
comes from the area of the of money to have journalist ground as everyone ate a delighting in new experiences.
brain responsible for primal Caroline Wilson held under traditional Christmas meal fol- The idea came from vol-
behaviours such as breathing icy water and calls this a joke, lowed by Christmas pudding. unteers with the Meals On
and reflexes. it seems hardly surprising. ‘We haven’t had a Christ- Wheels program who found Gazette
This may explain why it This was a ‘joke’ that por- mas in July before and that a lot of people accessing
is hard to suppress laughter trayed a clear image of vio- thought it would be a bit of their service eat alone. This newspaper is published
even when it may be viewed lence, and one that Eddie fun for something different,’ Deloraine House EWF is by Meander Valley Online Inc
as inappropriate. clearly had some emotional said Chris. held on the first Monday of 21West Parade, Deloraine 7304
All humans laugh and most investment in, as he went on Chris, Elena and Charlie are each month. ABN: 89090614412. 9,000
of us enjoy it. and on making the picture volunteers at Deloraine House The cost is $5.00 for a copies are printed each
As to what makes us laugh, more vivid with every phrase. who get together to cook deli- scrumptious two course meal month on paper made in
I think there are as many Yes, it is obvious to me that cious food for EWF on the first and the friendly conversation Tasmania. Delivered to all
reasons for that as there are Eddie would never carry out Monday of the month. is free. Everyone is welcome. homes in Meander Valley.
people on the planet. such a crime; he has way too Every month they come up The next Eating With
Editorial enquiries:
Cultural groups tend to much to lose, but he does with new and mouth-watering Friends will be held on
Contributions welcomed!
laugh at similar things, as do think the idea is funny. I think meals for those who attend. Monday 1st August.
Email: editor@meanderval-
friendship groups and some the question is, why?
leygazette.com Ph: 6286 8212
(but not all) families. If we, as a nation, are serious
(leave a message, it will send
It’s pretty difficult to find about facing our shadow with
an email).
Australian humour (apart regard to violence towards
from wordplay) that does not women, I think addressing the
shame, humiliate or denigrate language of laughter is a useful Editorial closing date
people or animals in some way. step on the way. for August 2016 issue is
Standups love to get up and If we all got to it and began 22nd July.
tell you how weird their fami- asking why, every time we
ly members are, or how ridic- laughed at something violent, Advertising enquiries:
ulous they found the behav- perhaps it would go some Email: advertising@mean-
iour of someone they met at way to reducing the amount dervalleygazette.com Ph:
the airport. of violence on our screens, on 6286 8216 (leave a message,
our streets and in our homes. it will send an email).
Letters In...
Advertising closing date
for August 2016 issue is:
I MOVED to the area perspective on life and simply 18th July.
from NSW in June and I am smile much more than what I Photo supplied by Deloraine House
absolutely loving it. have been used to.
Photo sales
The pace of life here is I am yet to meet an TO THE very caring pet own- unteering CREW (Commu-
Many of the photos in this
just one of the great fea- angry individual. er of a white Labrador who nity Response to Extreme
publication are available for
tures, but it’s the people who In essence, you people are reverses his ute up to a sort Weather) on the Volun-
sale in varying sizes. For fur-
really shine. much happier than those I of loading ramp at the Delo- teering Tasmania website,
ther information please call
Compared to the ‘Main- left behind. raine Racecourse, to allow his and may be called upon to
6286 8216 or email photos@
land’ the people of the Mean- And left behind I have, for elderly dog to get out without help when and if required:
meandervalleygazette.com
der Valley are far friendlier, I will never be going back. jumping , well done. www.volunteeringtas.org.au   
more relaxed, have a better Geoff Mooney, Westbury. To another very caring pet Helping others is part
Please Note
owner (red dog) who made a of the DNA of the Tasman
While every care is taken the
wooden ramp for his elderly -ian people.
producers of Meander Val-
dog to get in and out of the  Guy Barnett MP
ley Gazette cannot be held
car – well done.
liable for any publication
There are pet owners,
THE DEBATE around errors in written material or
then there are those who
medicinal cannabis includes
advertisements. The opin-
really care.
the huge economic benefits
ions expressed, whether by
A R Trounson – Needles
that can arise from canna-
paid advertisement or edi-
bis growing and processing
torial content do not neces-
THE RECENT floods and ex- in Tasmania, as well as dis-
sarily reflect the views of this
treme weather experienced cussions on the State Gov-
newspaper. Some material
across Tasmania have devas- ernment’s announcement of
may be abbreviated due to
tated many in the community. the proposed Controlled
space availability.
 In the midst of this trage- Access Scheme.
dy the spirit of the Tasmani- With around 91% of Aus-
an community has remained tralian’s stating support for
strong. Tasmanians are a medicinal cannabis (Roy
Home Delivery
giving people, and are always Morgan survey Oct 2015)
If you live in
willing to lend a hand in times and businesses itching to get
Meander Valley
of need. started, our government
Municipality and are
There will be many should immediately pave the
not receiving Meander Valley
Tasmanians ready and willing way to allow this industry to
Gazette at your home each
to help those affected by the emerge and patients to access
month, it may be because you
floods, providing moral sup- medicinal cannabis.
have a ‘no junk mail’ notice
port and practical assistance The proposed Controlled
on your letterbox. Drop in
to their friends, families and Access Scheme is only
neighbours. a token gesture of or contact our office (Ph:
The next best way to support from the Tasmanian 6362 3537 or email general@
help is to donate time or Government. meandervalleygazette.com)
money to help the work Community consultation to get your ‘Please deliver
of our local charities and on such an important health Meander Valley Gazette’
volunteer organisations.            and economic matter is vital weatherproof sticker at
People interested in assist- for it to be successful. no charge. Leave your
ing with the clean-up can Hannah Rubenach-Quinn, address with us and we will
register with Emergency Vol- St Marys let Australia Post know of
the change.
Meander Valley Gazette NEWS & EVENTS July 2016 3
Retro Rockers
take a twirl
Retro Rockers Rock and Roll Dancing Social Club members meet Tuesday evenings at the Italian Club in Prospect Vale. Beginners are welcome. Photo by: Mike Moores
By David Claridge she said. “Recently, a pair
Toddle Inn tackles tucker
of eight-year-old twin girls
TUESDAY NIGHTS at the came through to take part in
Italian Club in Prospect a beginner’s class.
Vale are very active with the “Sometimes we get people
Retro Rockers Rock and Roll from mainland dance clubs By Sara Fawcett As well as this, Toddle One such endeavour has
Dancing Social Club bopping come and join us for the Inn is one of 130 Tasmani- been the provision of age-ap-
up a storm. evening,” Lorraine added, as TODDLE INN Childcare an members of MWEW - a propriate, active play oppor-
From fifty to eighty people they welcome other clubs to Centre has won two awards unique Tasmanian health tunities that challenge and
come to have fun tearing up their social events. through programs run by promotion program devel- encourage children to explore,
the dance floor each week to “We usually have a theme Life Education and Move oped in response to interna- make mistakes and test limits.
music people from the 1960s at big functions. It gives us a Well Eat Well (MWEW). tional evidence that commu- Director of Toddle Inn, Julie
era would recognise. chance to wear our rock and It is the Tasmanian recip- nity-wide interventions in Purdon, was pleased with the
Club President, Lorraine roll gear,” Lorraine explained. ient of Life Education’s the early childhood settings can children’s responses to these
Colson, said that the group “A lot of them are open to the national Magic of Being Me reduce childhood obesity and award programs, saying they
was created thirteen years public too.” Preschool competition. improve young peoples’ lives. “were enthusiastic about dis-
ago to teach varied aspects of There is another seven week This program encourages In order to achieve the cussing sometimes foods and
dance, mainly rock and roll. beginners course this year children to talk about their award, Toddle Inn has intro- everyday foods” and “were
“There is no limit on age running from August to Sep- favourite healthy food and duced healthy eating and encouraged to draw and paint
here. The oldest dancers we tember. To find out more, visit helps them learn how unique physical activity into their their favourite healthy food to
have are in their seventies,” www.retrorockers.net.au they and others are. everyday routines. create a display board.”
4 July 2016 NEWS & EVENTS Meander Valley Gazette
MEANDER VALLEY - GET INVOLVED
Cover up and have a ball
THE DELORAINE Bowls young folk to get to
Club will light up on 30th July know each other, kept
at 7.00pm with the return of older folk active, and forged
the ‘Masqued Ball’. a strong sense of community
“For many years, balls in regional towns.”
and dances were centrally The new millennium brings
important to our communi- a blending of old and new.
ty,” reflects organisers Megan You can learn to waltz, do the
Brinsmead and Sarah Sonata. ‘Pride of Erin’ and ‘Strip the
“They were meeting places Willow’ to the Deloraine Folk
for neighbours, family, new Orchestra in a seasonal won-
friends and new love. Waltz- derland. You can also learn
es, foxtrots and folk dances a traditional Maypole dance,
brought dancers together win a raffle or perhaps be cho-
in mutual respect, allowed sen as Belle or Beau of the Ball.
From Left: Laurie Bird 74, Mac Kettle 73, Allan Torphey 82, all of Deloraine Young friends celebrate
Golden oldies enjoy a cuppa marked as a date to remem-
ber in calendars around the WESTBURY COMMUNITY students from schools
Oldies’, meet to share time. community and beyond. Health Centre is holding a throughout the North, who
By Marguerite McNeill
This group of men, aged  With tea and scones served ‘Friendship Festival’ on Fri- have learnt similar values of
IT’S RUMOURED that from 60 to 90 years, are up by Deloraine’s Patsy Blair, day 29th July after postpon- Listening, Respecting, Toler-
women are the chatterboxes practising that craft of the first two morning teas ing its original schedule on ating and Cooperating.
in this world. ‘tea and gossip’ to great each attracted almost 20 24th June. Twelve to twenty-five year-
We don’t know who started effect. Their resonant chatter people and about half as Young people will get to olds and community mem-
that rumour but it was most would rival the best of any many apologies. build on lessons they have bers are invited to watch , par-
likely a man. women’s gathering.  Three old mates even rolled learnt from participating in ticipate in, make suggestions
On the other hand, we The idea was inspired by up from Devonport to join in the experiential relationship or ask questions about the
do know that many wom- long-term Deloraine lad Kevin the chatter. education program Drum- activities and Youth Health
en enjoy a chat over a cup of (Luke) Bowles who missed While politics and other less beat, as they have fun work- Service from 2:30 to 5:00 pm.
tea and across the country it’s the mateship of his early appealing subjects are mainly ing together, playing drums, There may even be pizza!
a time-honoured ritual that years and decided to do left out of the equation, there participating in positive Contact Nate on 6701 2156,
can occur almost any hour of something about it. is plenty of talk about the team building activities with [email protected].
the day. He spread the word and ‘old times’ and possibly a few
Well, some of our menfolk soon found others who felt rather ‘tall tales’. Hook into a new craft
have taken note and they now the same. “You can’t believe it all,” one
reckon that catching up over a “I’d see people in the street old chappie winked.  HAPPY HOOKERS meet at means of settling into the
cuppa is not a bad idea. I knew but didn’t get to talk,” Men aged 60+ years and The British Hotel in Delo- Meander Valley Community.
After all, it gives them a Luke said. more are welcome to share raine in front of a cosy fire It is a way of swapping
great excuse to sit down for a “As you get older you don’t time with other Golden Old- to make textiles and hook ideas and materials with a
nice, long chat. have as many outings and ies who currently meet at the rugs together. cuppa available for $2.00.
And no one would be rude there’s not much chance to Deloraine Bowls Club on the The Group is mainly com- The Happy Hookers wel-
enough to count the hours! chat about old times.” first Thursday of each month prised of new residents who come visitors any Monday
In recent months the Delo- “I asked a few others and at 10.00am. have used the group as a morning from 10.00am.
raine Bowls Club has become they thought it was a great  There is no agenda oth-
a hot spot once a month idea (to meet up).” er than to enjoy yourselves IN THE GARDEN WITH NELL CARR
where such a group, who The idea took hold and and make a $5.00 contribu-
call themselves ‘The Golden already Golden Oldies day is tion for morning tea. PLANTS WHICH flower the Japanese quince, and
in June and July are doubly
the red and double white
welcome to brighten up
varieties help to brighten the
how to stay in your home, the garden on dull days.
winter garden
seeking assistance follow- Narcissus are the most prolif-
Vegetables. It might be
ing family violence, informa- ic in Meander Valley at this
difficult to find a dry enough
tion and advice on housing time of year .
spot to sow some vegie seeds.
options, and can refer people Those with the orange or
At the Western end of
to other support services they yellow calyx and the corolla,
the Valley, the historical
may be in need of. (the outer petals) white or
June record of 217mm has by
yellow, began flowering in
Housing 24th June been topped
early June, the daffodils in July.
by 8mm, but if a dry
unaffordability is one These are so ubiquitous in
enough patch can be found
of the biggest issues our district, around deserted
the seeds of onions and spin-
houses, in long neglected gar-
ach may be sown, and also
An outreach service is held dens, it is hardly necessary to
2-year asparagus crowns can
in Deloraine every third Tues- mention them.
be planted in enriched and
day of the month by Housing Some less common plants
limed soil.
Connect representative and which flower bravely in frost
trained social worker, Chris or rain are .-
(pictured). The red flowered Cestrum
“We see a lot of people who (pictured), attracts honey
are on the streets but also eaters, and flowers through-
people who are in inappropri- out winter.
ate accommodation or have It is reputed to be a lit-
housing instability where they tle frost tender, so should
are staying with friends short be grown where it doesn’t
Habitat hunt as homelessness, drug de- term,” explains Chris. get the early morning
pendency, physical or mental “Housing unaffordability is winter sunshine.
health issues. one of the biggest issues fac- Chimonanthus praecox is
By Joanne Eisemann
Housing Connect helps ing people on low incomes. If the scented Winter sweet,
FINDING APPROPRIATE people with: applying for you are on Newstart, trying to which is apt to be overlooked
housing can be a big chal- social housing, support and find a property that is afforda- as its small flowers are in mut-
lenge for people on low in- advice with private rent- ble is very difficult.” ed colours, but its strong spicy
comes, especially when you al (including bond and rent For Housing Connect scent helps to locate the shrub
consider they may already arrears), finding a bed for the appointments please phone in the garden.
be handling problems such night, support and advice on Deloraine House on 6362 2678. Chaenomoles japonica is
Meander Valley Gazette NEWS & EVENTS July 2016 5
No friend of Imelda
of life in our domestic horses.
The correct trim, movement,
nutrition, environment, knowl-
By Joanne Eisemann
course successfully without edge are the keys to success.”
ZAMIR, AN eighteen year any hoof protection, A world first, Jeremy and Jen
old Arab, picks his way with- What started out as a quest wrote an accredited 12 month
out hesitation across a small to do her own thing has now training course in natural hoof
yard covered with rocks become her life’s work, regu- care for practitioners, that’s
towards his friend, Jen larly taking her and partner been running for 10 years.
Clingly, co-proprietor of ‘Wild Jeremy Ford all over Australia. They also run a busy trim
About Hooves’. Jeremy trained as a tra- practice, teach one-day Learn
I comment, “It’s not your ditional farrier and worked to Trim workshops, run adven-
average horse-yard,” Jen this way for 12 years, before ture tours, make films, publish
laughs and says “I know, attending a workshop with educational resources, design
everyone takes rocks out of leading American barefoot and develop trimming tools
paddocks, but if you want a practitioner, hoof rehabilita- and in their spare time are both
horse to tackle that sort of ter- tion specialist, lecturer and active endurance competitors.
rain when you are out riding, author, Pete Ramey who “I love the fact that it has
you’ve got to provide some of came to Deloraine in 2005. become so much more main-
that at home.” stream. When I first started
A world first,
Riding barefoot became an I felt like a freak, people weren’t
interest for Jen in 2000. She Jeremy and Jen wrote shy in letting me know that I
purchased Zamir for endur- an accredited 12 month was an outcast,” shares Jen.
ance riding (an equestrian training course Always eager to learn more,
sport based on veterinary con- the two have secured another
trolled long-distance races). “It was a defining moment visit to Deloraine by world
“He was travelling fine in his career that saw him go leader in hoof care and hoof
without shoes so I just kept to study in America,” says rehabilitation, Pete Ramey.
riding and he had no issues,” Jen and added “The biggest Pete is running three, two-
shares Jen. pathology horses face is lam- day workshops while in Aus-
At the time the sport did initis, it’s the second biggest tralia - Canberra and Mel-
not allow barefoot horses to killer of horses. He was work- bourne are already sold out.
compete, so Jen either had to ing in the racing industry at The workshop will be held
stop competing or lobby to the time and there were a on 22nd an 23rd of October
have the rules changed. lot of horses suffering. No 2016 and is suitable for horse
She chose to lobby and, as a special shoe was going to fix owners, farriers, hoof trim-
result, she and Zamir became the problem.” mers and veterinarians. The
the first to ride endurance “The inspiration for the focus is on practical demon-
barefoot, the first barefoot barefoot movement is the wild strations with the latest sci-
horse to win a ride outright horse. Their tough hooves ence on the distal limb. Visit
Jen Clingly and Zamir who have completed 5000 km endurance (80km) and the first in Aus- and natural lifestyle provide www.wildabouthooves.com.
together, barefoot. Dog, Daisy MacDuffy. Photo by: Mike Moores tralia to complete 160km a blueprint to improve quality au or call Jen on 0408 838 198.
Wood heater efficiency
THE ENVIRONMENT Pro- participants a taste of the
tection Authority (EPA) and wood smoke issues relating to
the Tasmanian Government, Tasmanian communities, and
along with Clean Air Soci- also providing residents with
ety of Australia and New information to assist them
Zealand (CASANZ) are host- in reducing emissions from
ing a workshop for air spe- domestic wood heaters.”
cialists, scientists, regulators “All residents of Deloraine
and industry representatives and the surrounding areas are
from around Australia and warmly invited to attend the
New Zealand on wood smoke evening forum,” he shared.
in the human environment “It will include two short talks
this July. on wood smoke followed
The ‘BISMITHE’ Workshop by questions.”
is being held from 12th to 14th
Wood smoke
July in Deloraine, and a pub-
lic forum is being offered in is the most significant
the evening on 12th July at the air pollution in
Deloraine Community Cen- Tasmania
tre for interested members
of the Meander Valley and “Weather permitting, the
surrounding communities. EPA will also showcase its
EPA Senior Air Scientist, mobile air monitoring sta-
Dr John Innis said that the tion which won an Award
Workshop is designed for for innovation from CASANZ
experts in air monitoring, in 2014 and has since been
research and management, adopted by other State EPA’s
providing them with an for mobile air quality testing,”
opportunity to come togeth- he elaborated.
er to discuss a range of In addition, “the station will
issues relating to wood be taken around local areas to
smoke pollution. measure air quality and the
“Wood smoke is the most results of wood smoke lev-
significant air pollution in els will be transmitted in real
Tasmania,” said Dr Innis. “This time back to the Community
is the first time that we will Centre for discussion.”
hold a meeting in Tasmania of For further information
air specialists from around the contact Denice Barker, EPA
country to discuss the issues.” Tasmania on 0427 373 342 or
“The Workshop is designed email denice.barker@envi-
with a local focus, giving ronment.tas.gov.au.
6 July 2016 NEWS & EVENTS Meander Valley Gazette
Birds: best flood survivors
By Sarah Lloyd be subjected to strong flows
SPIDERS HAVE an intrigu- which can scour the banks of
ing method of avoiding flood rivers and streams leading to
waters. displacement or even death.
In a process known Birds have the advantage
as ‘ballooning’, individuals of being able to fly to high-
release a thread of silk and er ground if their territory
are raised aloft into the is flooded. The species that
atmosphere eventually to feed on soil-dwelling inver-
settle on vegetation. tebrates may find their food
Cobweb-covered shrubs more easily once the ground
and trees were observed dries out. This is because
around Hagley and Westbury these invertebrates (insect
during the recent floods. Sad- larvae, worms, millipedes etc)
ly, many species of fauna are would have retreated to moist
unable to escape rising waters layers deep in the soil during
and how they fared during the prolonged drought and
and after the deluge is difficult then migrated to nearer
to assess. the surface once the soil
During strong winds and becomes saturated.
pouring rain mammals and Important habitat features
birds seek shelter. Like us, they such as old hollow-bearing
must eat regularly to main- trees are particularly vul-
Jerokee Ronan 15 and Finn Hilder 13 planting trees on Westbury Common. Photo by: Brad Quinn tain their bodies in robust nerable to gale-force winds
health and are at risk of star- especially when the soil
Common ground
children with special education- vation or ill health if stormy around their roots has been
al needs to get out in the com- weather persists. softened by rain. These trees
munity and how much they Once waters recede grazing are becoming scarce and
enjoy different experiences. animals like pademelon and their loss threatens species
By Elizabeth Douglass
Assisted by Tom Matthews’ Di explained that the edu- wallaby may find their food such as Masked Owls and
WESTBURY TOWN Com- Green Army team and Alison cational plantings are part of contaminated by silty flood Yellow-tailed Black Cocka-
mon is a popular recreation Hugo of NRM North, the chil- a co-ordinated community waters; wombats, echidnas, toos that require large cavities
space for locals, but the area dren dug holes, then planted effort with federal govern- snakes and other burrowing for nesting.
is shared with native fauna banksias and tussocks. The ment funding and practical animals may be drowned or The recent floods have
and flora needing safe habi- Northern Support School assistance from NRM North, forced into unfamiliar territo- been catastrophic for peo-
tats to thrive in. children also helped grow Green Army (Manpower Aus- ry if their burrows are inundat- ple and for fauna. If anyone
Sitting on the natural flood the seedlings for this and tralia) and the MV Council. ed. Even aquatic animals like has seen animals that
plain of Quamby Brook, last other plantings. She emphasised that this platypuses can be disadvan- have been displaced or otherwise
month the Common was Di regularly invites local network cannot function taged. They may be washed affected by the floods please let
entirely underwater. Now the schools and kindergartens without local volunteers, but downstream in raging flood- me know: sarahlloyd@iprimus.
floodwaters are gone, West- to environmental planting that not everyone in the local waters or their burrows may com.au.
bury Town Common Landcare sessions, teaching kids area even knows a Landcare
Group continues to nurture about the local habitat and group exists. Meander artist recognised
and preserve a special environ- wildlife, encouraging them to Now, nine years into a
ment for very special locals. get involved and fostering a 20-year plan to establish the
By David Claridge
Di Robinson recently host- sense of ownership. Common as a safe environ-
ed children from the Northern With Barry the Bandi- ment for endangered species THE QUEEN’S Birthday
Support School to help create coot and Crazy Cat to show and maintain it as flourishing weekend in June saw Delo-
homes for the Eastern Barred what the planting is for, the recreational space, Di always raine local, Tony Smibert,
Bandicoot and the Tussock children happily got muddy in welcomes helpers. appointed a Member of the
Skink. In a quiet, less-visited a good cause. She continues to enjoy pro- Order of Australia.
bend of Quamby Brook, new Sue Jacobs, from the viding the next generation This recognises his signifi-
plantings will provide safe Northern Support School, with the chance to get their cant contributions to Aikido
refuges from feral cats. stressed how valuable it is for hands dirty! through a range of roles, and
to the visual arts as a painter
and water colourist.
As a recent commentator
described it, “Smibert’s affinity
for Japanese culture is present end of the year.
throughout all his interests, Mr Smibert and his wife,
and his art is deeply informed artist Carmel Burns, set
by the study in Aikido.” up their studio-gallery in
For more than 50 years, Deloraine over 30 years
Tony Smibert has played a ago leading to over 50 solo
major role in establishing the exhibitions around Australia
Japanese defensive martial art and overseas.
of Aikido in Australia. He’s also a Visiting
As the current president of Researcher at Tate Gallery
Aiki-Kai Australia and the only in London, an author and
non-Japanese member of the specialist in British watercol-
Senior Council of the Inter- our method from 1750-1850’s
national Aikido Federation in (particularly JMW Turner).
Japan, he teaches world-wide Today, with an estab-
(May saw him leading semi- lished international reputa-
nars in the UAE, Belgium and tion for watercolour, Tony
St. Petersburg before trav- is focussing on larger acrylic
elling to Hong Kong) and abstracts towards exhibitions
he will return to London, in Sydney, Hong Kong and
Europe and Japan before the Melbourne later this year.
Census cafés 4th and 9th of August. If you
would like someone to help
TWO CENSUS Cafés will be you with the Census forms or
held at Deloraine House for feel you might be missed by
the purpose of helping peo- the door knockers then come
ple fill in their Census forms. along to a Census Café. Call
The Cafés will run on the 6362 2678 to find out more.
Meander Valley Gazette FEATURE July 2016 7
Pictured: Tanya Rowe of Chud- However, they still love to
Photo by: Mike Moores leigh with one of her tamed be outside at times so they
feral furbabies, Tiger Lily. have outdoor houses where
they can enjoy the fresh air
was going crazy when this and sunshine.
kitty seemed to disappear We’ve also taught Aus-
and reappear somewhere sie and Tommy to walk on a
else entirely. harness and lead. Initially
She was relieved and sur- both didn’t like it. I’m sure
prised when two identical Aussie believed his back legs
twins eventually popped out were paralysed when we first
of the bushes. put it on.
We found their love of
Don’t imagine that you
being outside was the best
can ‘walk’ a cat though. training ground and they
It is more a case of quickly got used to the har-
following your ness when they realised that
they could move around and
cat around.
explore the great outdoors.
My sister Tayna and Don’t imagine that you
I managed to catch can ‘walk’ a cat though. It is
them but they were wild more a case of following your
little spitfires. cat around, so it takes some
We named them Aussie patience.
and Tommy. Aussie became Since rescuing Tommy
mine, and Tanya took Tommy. and Aussie, my sister Tanya
Our method of training was Rowe, has also rescued five
simple. Every time we were other cats.
sitting in the lounge we would All have their own sad tale,
hold a kitten on our lap and including one that we picked
stroke them. up limp and almost dead and
Initially, Aussie was a biter one that had been abused and
so I would hold him in a tow- now has a physical disability.
Take a walk on the wild side el. Eventually he stopped bit- So if you want to adopt
ing as he learned to trust me. a cat, please consider getting
Gradually, he would allow me a rescue.
to stroke him on his legs and It may take longer to bond
from the truth. But once you do, they tummy as he slept on my lap, with them, but they’ll reward
By Chere Kenyon
In fact, cats can be reward you with their amaz- which has now become his you amply for your time, love
MOST PEOPLE think that surprising, interesting and ing personalities and loyalty. favourite sleeping place. and patience.
dogs have personality and adorable animals. On Australia Day 2012, Aussie and Tommy have Be sure to also get your cat
cats are aloof creatures wor- It can be difficult to earn the my mom spotted a striped such big personalities and we de-sexed as that is the best
shipped by ancient Egyptians. trust of cats who have once wild kitten running around have now trained them to be line of defence to protect
Nothing could be further been wild, dumped or abused. her garden. She thought she indoor cats. other animals.
8 July 2016 - Public Notice - Meander Valley Gazette
Valleyviews Flood damage
EARLY JUNE saw the worst
floods to hit Tasmania in
nearly a century. Key assets
in Meander Valley were
Mayor’s Message affected. Significantly, ini-
tial assessments show 6
bridges may need replac-
nise that the hurt extends ing at an estimated cost of
to members of our commu- $2.5 million. Damage to a
nity. The recovery in some third of our road network
areas will take time; how- has included pavement and
ever, Council is committed shoulder erosion around
to ensuring that much is waterways (bridge and cul-
done as soon as possible. vert crossings), stripping of
Council adopted its bitumen and asphalt seals,
2016/17 budget at the June deep scouring of roadside
Council meeting. Coun- drainage, and loss of gravel
cil was careful to limit any pavement and shoulder
increase to CPI plus a small materials. Landslip failures
increase in the waste levy. have occurred on Gulf Road,
Over the past three years, Liffey, and on Old Gads Hill
Council has been removing Road, Liena. The impact of
costs related specifically to flooding on our parks and
waste management, which reserves areas has included
was hidden in the General entrance road damage,
Rate, to a more transparent waterway bank erosion,
waste levy. damage to footpaths, sand
Finally, I would like to and gravel deposition and
congratulate 2016 Tas- build-up of debris. The toll
manian Queen’s Birthday on our building assets has
THE LAST MONTH has cer- Honours recipient, Tony been minimal in compari-
tainly been a busy month. Smibert AM, for being Gads Hill Road (top) and Union Bridge Road son to other assets.
Much has been writ- acknowledged for his com-
ten and many photos have munity contribution as an
Learning from
been shared on the floods Artist and Aikido Master. bours and friends histor- from previous floods. Did
of early June. Whilst there This is such a well-deserved ical comparisons to pre- the water go to areas where
the floods
was significant damage to recognition. vious floods. Old images, it hasn’t gone before?
Council’s assets, we recog- Craig Perkins, Mayor stories and even film may The Planning team
ONE OF THE ROLES Coun- have emerged showing the would welcome any infor-
cil’s Planning team has is to extent of flooding during mation you think will help
Council Updates
keep developing its under- these historical events. us get a better understand-
standing of the environ- Many of the flood maps ing of what happened on
Council adopts
includes the $16 increase ment around us and how Council’s planners rely on, the ground. We are happy
2016–17 budget to the waste management it impacts on the use and and the studies that gener- for you to send us words,
charge. management of land. The ate those maps, have their pictures, film or drawings,
In summary, the total recent flooding in Mean- origins in these stories and anything you think will help
COUNCIL HAS APPROVED rates income in 2016–2017 der Valley is an example of images. us update the mapping and
a General Rate increase equates to $11.293 million, a natural event that we can Council would like to improve the public record.
of 1.3% to keep pace with part of the total revenue learn from. hear your accounts of the Please send information
inflation and to support the of $21.588 million. With During the recent flood- impact of the flood on by email to planning@mvc.
sustainability of Council’s an operating expenditure ing you would have heard your land. We would like tas.gov.au or by mail to
longer term financial plan. of $18.85 million, a bud- and discussed with neigh- to know what was different Council’s postal address.
The three year phase-in of get surplus of $2.729 mil-
a flat-rate waste manage- lion is recorded. However,
Early flood
ment service charge for all after adjustment for capital 3. Flood Relief information
properties for our tips and income items, the Under- updates are being regu-
recovery
transfer stations is com- lying Operating Surplus is larly posted on Council’s
pleted in 2016–2017. The expected to be $1.803 mil- responses website and Facebook
increase to $46 will see lion. Funding for a capital page.
the service become self- works program amount- 4. A Flood Relief informa-
funded. ing to $10.297 million was 1. Council’s early priori- tion poster is being cir-
On average, residential approved at the May Coun- ties have been to assess culated in digital and
properties will see their cil meeting. damage, improve safety hard form – available by
annual Council bill increase Detailed copies of the and re-establish con- calling 6393 5300.
within the range of around 2016–2017 budget can be nectivity. It has engaged 5. Council is liaising with
$22 at Mole Creek to $34 found at www.meander.tas. professional expertise local service clubs to
at Blackstone Heights. This gov.au. Hadspen to assist with complex assist affected residents
infrastructure failures. with small recovery
This will ensure full tasks as required.
Drive carefully
Rest, until well into the day, Driving in adverse engineering solutions 6. Council continues to
in winter and this can prove especially weather conditions are provided that will coordinate community
treacherous when there is • Be alert at all times accelerate the construc- recovery responses to
A Meander Valley ice on the road. Visibility and reduce your tion and recovery pro- affected residents in col-
Community Safety can also be severely reduced speed to match the cess. Council has been laboration with DHHS,
message due to fog. conditions. well-supported through recovery agencies and
In bad weather, slow • Drive with headlights this by community service clubs.
AS WINTER is now upon us down and allow extra time or park lights on at members in the affected 7. A waste-management
we all need to take extra care for your journey. times of poor visibility. areas. free pick-up service has
when driving in Meander Pedestrians and cyclists • Increase the gap 2. An Emergency Evacua- been established for
Valley and on other roads can be hard to see and they between you and the tion Centre was estab- residents of flood-af-
throughout the State. Win- are our most vulnerable vehicle in front so that lished at the Deloraine fected properties. Please
ter means wet and slippery road users. Cyclists should you have more time Community Complex on call Council to register.
roads, often with frost and wear reflective clothing to stop if needed (at Monday 6 June to sup- 8. Council is responding to
ice. The sun does not reach and ensure that they have least a 4 second gap in port affected residents. public alerts regarding
some sections of roads and both front and rear lights the wet). Red Cross and DHHS damage to roads, path-
highways, such as Travellers operating. staff assisted. ways and public spaces.
Meander Valley Gazette - Public Notice - July 2016 9
Community News Dog Registrations
Seat treat
DOG REGISTRATIONS for dogs within the municipal-
2016-2017 are now due. ity. If you have a new dog
at the Little
Please register your dog that needs to be registered,
before 31 July to receive a please contact Council on
Theatre discounted rate. 6393 5300 to obtain a new
Council is currently doing dog registration form, or
an audit of unregistered visit Council’s website.
THANKS to the work of
many willing volunteers, FEES 2016–2017 REGULAR PAYMENT ON
the Little Theatre now FEE OR BEFORE
boasts 150 ‘new’ seats 31ST JULY 2016
purchased from the Prin- Domestic Dog Not $60.50 $44.00
cess Theatre, Launceston. Desexed
This initiative has involved It has been championed Council. Each seat bears a
Domestic Dog Desexed $20.50 $12.50
months of effort and inge- by the Deloraine Dramatic plaque honouring the gen-
Working Dog $20.50 $12.50
nuity: fundraising, trans- Society and Western Tiers erosity of a willing sponsor.
porting and re-configur- Film Society supported by A huge community effort, Greyhound $20.50 $12.50
ing the seats to best suit The Deloraine Community congratulations to every- Purebred (for breeding) $20.50 $12.50
the needs of the facility. Shed and Meander Valley one concerned.
Pensioners Dog (one per $20.50 $12.50
pension card)
Junior Girls AFL Footy Program
Guide/Hearing Dog Nil Nil
(on production of
THE PROSPECT HAWKS shorts and socks in Hawks in the lead up, interest in evidence by applicant)
Junior Football Club has had colours and introduced to female football has surged Dangerous Dog $550.00 $550.00
an overwhelming response the basics of kicking, hand- in the last 18 months with
Guard Dog $60.50 $44.00
to the launch of their first balling and the rules of the competitions for senior,
ever Junior Girls football game. The girls then gath- youth and juniors being
program. The Hawks have ered at Aurora Stadium on formed.
New horizons for Greg Preece
registered 38 girls aged Sunday 26 June to partic- The Junior Girls program
from 9 to 12 years with 23 of ipate in the AFL Half Time has been provided by Pros-
those players from through- exhibition for the AFL fix- pect Hawks Junior Football COUNCIL’S General Man-
out Meander Valley. ture game between the Club and Hawthorn Foot- ager, Greg Preece, will retire
The new 8-week pro- ladder-topping Hawthorn ball Club and the Meander on 5 August after a career
gram commenced with and the Gold Coast Suns. Valley Council who subsi- of over 30 years in local
2 introductory sessions The AFL will launch their dised registration fees for government. Greg took up
where players were kit- first women’s national com- 10 players as part of its his position in Meander
ted up with guernseys, petition in early 2017 and, school holiday program. Valley in 2005 following
management roles at Dor-
set and Launceston Coun-
cils. Amongst his many
achievements, he considers
the mentoring of staff and
the development of Coun-
cil’s award-winning health
and wellbeing program as ley residents and thanks
two most satisfying experi- them for their support
ences. “I get a great deal of throughout his tenure. He
pleasure from helping peo- is now looking forward to
ple to develop themselves more restful horizons with
and their careers through time to enjoy family, travel
local government. It is an and catching up on all
area of great opportunity those interesting little jobs
that is often overlooked.” around home. Thanks Greg,
Greg extends his warmest for your dedicated service
wishes to all Meander Val- to our community.
Meandering 2016
MEANDERING is our annual now in its tenth year, is pro-
art exhibition where local vided through a partner-
artists present work based ship between Meander Val-
on images of Meander Val- ley Council, Launceston Art
ley. Council will award a Society and Country Club
$3,000 first prize (acquisi- Tasmania. THE MEANDER VALLEY
tive) and there will be seven Community Directory is
additional prizes including an online site and a free
a novice and encourage- information hub for all Council Offices 8:30am-5:00pm
ment award for developing non-profit, voluntary–run PO Box 102
artists. The 2016 theme is community organisations 26 Lyall Street, Westbury
‘Vital Signs’ and the exhibi- that serve Meander Valley.
tion will be held at Country Is your group there? Reg- General Enquiries
Club Tasmania between 24 istration is simple , all you Phone [phone]
September and 30 October. need is an email address Fax [phone]
Entry forms are now avail- to get started. Step by step Email [email protected]
able from Council recep- registration guidelines are Web www.meander.tas.gov.au
tion, website and www. available from the Council
artlas.org.au. The applica- website.
tion deadline is 19 August, Meandering 2015: ‘Essence Connect with us
but works are not required of the Valley’ Category www.meandervalley
until 20 September. The Winner, ‘Where does it lead?’ communitydirectory. Valley Views can be read at any time by visiting the website. Click
Meandering Art Exhibition, –artist David Scarborough com.au on Community, Culture and Recreation and then Community News.
10 July 2016 ARTS & REVIEWS Meander Valley Gazette
John's temple
of creativity
By Elizabeth Douglass
Time spent in the gallery is
JOHN TEMPLE came to necessary for running a busi-
photography after his first ness, but after 20 years travelling
successful incarnation as a the world and taking photo-
farmer of angora goats. graphs, John still prefers the days
His career in the world when he is free to be outside,
of wool production provid- looking for landscape and light
ed valuable experience in to capture through the lens.
enabling him to create a Still using traditional film
successful business as a stock, John nevertheless
professional photographer. welcomes the proliferation
And now, all these years later, of digital photography rather
John can stand in his Westbury than seeing it as an encroach-
gallery, surrounded by his amaz- ment on his profession.
ingly beautiful images of Tas- His optimistic view is that
mania and the rest of the world. the sheer volume of digital
His panoramic views show photography disseminated
familiar townscapes as well through 'the Cloud' can pro-
as wilderness views that duce memorably brilliant
most people will never see for images also. And producing
themselves, astonishing vistas brilliant images will always be
Photo by: Mike Moores of colour and form fixed with John’s motivation for getting
an artist’s eye. up in the morning.
Behind the scenes at the He strongly believes that
DNA lends drama to Diggers formed in Deloraine once by gallery there is a well-coor- after all this time, he has
the Hobart-based Square Pegs dinated workshop through still achieved only a small
A WONDERFUL play, Dig for By matching DNA test- before as the winning entry which John markets his own fraction of what he wants
the Diggers will be presented ing of their remains with in the Deloraine Dramatic images as well as providing a to photograph. The urge to
at Deloraine High School at presently living relatives’, Society’s Festival of One Act professional design and print be out there with his cameras
6.00 pm on Saturday, 9th July. being mostly grandchil- Plays, and having since been business for other clients. remains stronger than ever.
It is based on the work dren, our heroes are at last performed with great success There is everything a pho- John doesn’t believe he has
being done to identify Aus- recognised and their remains in this festival for many years. tographer needs including a created his best image yet and
tralian soldiers who had died returned to their families The play is very short, cherrypicker for those other- intends to keep trying for a
in the battlefields of Europe, and homeland. only 35 minutes, but it has wise impossible vantage points! long time to come.
especially at Fromelles. The play has been per- amazing impact.
Richard Crabtree Exhibition
A combined force of Celts in concert
ELEMENTAL ARTSPACE is Emu Bay Road, Deloraine.
YOU ARE invited to attend light-footed steps of the Celt- Strutting their stuff along- pleased to announce the solo Elemental Artspace is open
a wonderful performance ic Force Highland Dancers. side the Force’s dancers are exhibition of Richard Crabtree. every day during July from
bursting at the seams with Experience the show’s new the vibrant and lively Aileen His 'Recent Works' will be 9:00 – 5:00 pm.
pipes and drums, with the look as it celebrates its 18th Poynter Irish Dancers, who on show for the month of July This is a free showing for all
rich tones of brass and the season on stage. will grace the stage the at the at the Durham Gallery, 20 – 22 to enjoy.
two matinee performances.
Photo supplied by Celtic Force Having for many years
played a huge role with
the theatrical stage in
Launceston, Mrs Diane Sum-
mers’ new directorship of
the Force’s dancers for 2016
includes Launceston Bari-
tone Stephen Foster and local
music teacher and singer,
Meegan Hughes, new to this
year’s line-up.
They will perform along
side the Force’s pipe band’s
very own Sally-Anne Ralph.
The St Patrick’s College
Big Band will also make
their debut at this event
this year, demonstrating why
they are one of the most
advanced bands from the
vibrant St Patrick’s College
Music Program.
This will be one of their
last performances before they
head off on tour to the main-
land in August.
Band merchandise will also
be available for sale at the event.
Held at Country Club Tas-
mania on 23rd July, 2.00pm
& 7.30pm and 24th July at
2.00pm. Tickets are on sale
now through www.tixtas.
com.au or phone [phone].