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Aussie rowing champion rushed to hospital in coma

Australian rowing athlete Georgia Nesbitt, 30, has been admitted to hospital after suffering serious injuries during a cycling event in Hobart. The 30-year-old was put in an induced coma but is said to be in a stable condition after the crash during a criterium race, Rowing Australia confirmed. The former World Championships silver medallist was recently appointed to a position on the Rowing Tasmania board. Rowing Australia Chief Executive Ian Robson said in a statement, “Georgia is one of the most respected athletes in Australian rowing. The entire rowing family and wider sports community is thinking of Georgia and her family in the wake of this serious accident. “Rowing Australia offers its ongoing support and assistance to Georgia’s family during this most testing of time. They are foremost in our thoughts.” The crash was reported to have occurred during a criterium road race at Tolosa Park on Friday night, March 10. The Nesbitt family have requested the media respect their privacy. According to Rowing Australia, Nesbitt represented the Australian team on 10 occasions, including a silver medal at the 2017 World Championships. She was part of the Hancock Prospecting Women’s National Training Centre in Penrith until December 2022 when she returned to her home state. Image credit: Getty

Caring

Historic mansion's once-in-a-lifetime sale

One of Australia's oldest and most historically important mansions has been listed for sale. The Tasmanian home has an asking price of $3.5 million-plus. Woodbridge, as it's called, was built in 1825 by convicts and is located roughly 30 minutes away from Hobart in the town of New Norfolk. Backing onto the river Derwent, the stunning heritage-listed Georgian Mansion boats real old-world grandeur and, for anyone interested, this stately homestead could also serve as a lucrative investment property. In 2005, the beautiful abode was completely refurbished and now operates as a stylish, boutique five-star hotel. Boasting nine en-suite rooms, a dining room, a salon, ballroom, reading room and two commercial kitchens, the Woodbridge is well and truly brimming with potential. There's also a manager's living quarters on-site, plus a host of other features such as a riverfront pavilion, sauna and a jacuzzi. Woodbridge is also spread over 3793-square-metres of pristine, manicured grounds. Located in the heart of one of Tasmania's busiest tourist areas, there are plenty of nearby attractions too, including the Museum of Old and New Art (MONA), Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary, Salmon Ponds and the Agrarian Kitchen. The sale of Woodbridge is being handled by John Blacklow of Knight Frank Tasmania, and anyone interested in this property and the limitless possibilities should register interest before Thursday, April 28. Images: Domain.com.au

Real Estate

"How dare you?": ABC reporter slammed for disrespectful act

<div class="post_body_wrapper"> <div class="post_body"> <div class="body_text redactor-styles redactor-in"> Fury continues to grow after ABC reporter Edith Bevin went live during a minute's silence during an Invasion Day protest. Protestors attending the event tried to get Bevin to stop reporting during the minutes silence, but Bevin continued on with her live stream to the ABC office in Hobart. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> Oooops ABC 'reporter' ignored the moment and then dopey Ros Child tries to cover it up and says 'we will return after the minute silence' .. umm too late Ros. <a href="https://t.co/VdHS6bkyhL">pic.twitter.com/VdHS6bkyhL</a> — Jill❌ (@1Swinging_Voter) <a href="https://twitter.com/1Swinging_Voter/status/1353883666389209088?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 26, 2021</a></blockquote> “It’s been interesting to see how many people have turned up to the rally. Behind me now, they’re engaged in a minute’s silence,” Edith Bevin said. “Obviously this is a day that marks what the Aboriginal community in Tasmania refer to as Invasion Day – the day (of) white settlement of Australia – and certainly there are a lot of placards about calling for that date to be changed, to be more inclusive.” A woman can be seen approaching the camera, asking the camera crew and reporter "How dare you?" Bevin continued with her live reporting, despite a man pushing the angry woman away. “Excuse me, don’t touch me,” she said. Another man blocked the camera and was directly in front of Bevin before being pushed aside. The live link was then cut quickly with anchor Ros Childs saying: “We’ll perhaps go back to Edith when that minute’s silence has been completed.” An official complaint has been made with the ABC over the incident. “I’m writing in to express my deep sadness and concern at the action of your staff today at the Hobart Invasion Day rally,” the letter states. “ … Mid minute of silence, Edith chose to start reporting her prepared script. “Once the silence had concluded and the speeches started again, a lady confronted Edith about her poor choice and timing. The camera man came forward and tried to shove the lady out of the way to try and keep filming. “ … No apology was given to the people who called out this action by either the reporter, camera man, or producer. “I would like to know how such a respected news outlet as ABC lets producers and news teams make such deeply disrespectful and insensitive decisions. Would any member of your team start their talk to camera during the minute of silence for Remembrance Day?” The ABC has not yet responded to the claims. </div> </div> </div> <div class="post-action-bar-component-wrapper"> <div class="post-actions-component"> <div class="upper-row"></div> </div> </div>

Legal

3 things you should do while visiting Hobart

As there’s a contrasting blend of heritage, scenery and culture found in Hobart, it can be overwhelming to know where to begin. Hobart is the second-oldest capital city in Australia after Sydney, and with fine dining or picturesque mountains, there’s something for everyone. Here are three things you should do while visiting Hobart. 1. Visit Beumauris Zoo Mary Roberts first opened the zoo back in 1895 and was the first person to successfully breed Tasmanian devils in captivity. She was also the first person to showcase a group of Tasmanian tigers in captivity. With the zoo closing in 1937 due to failing attendances, you are now able to see the former enclosures that have been taken over by nature. Tours are led of the zoo on September 7th to commemorate the date of the last Tasmanian tiger’s death. <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/Bx9Ya08B0Dl/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="12"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"></div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <a style="color: #000; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Bx9Ya08B0Dl/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank">The remains of the old Hobart Zoo, also known as the Beaumaris Zoo. (You can see one of the old enclosures in the background.) Sadly, it is where the last Thylacine died in 1936. The zoo closed the following year. #beaumariszoo #hobartzoo #hobart #tasmania #tasmaniantiger</a> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;">A post shared by <a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/danielle.ross.walls/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank"> Danielle Ross Walls</a> (@danielle.ross.walls) on May 27, 2019 at 1:21am PDT </div> </blockquote> 2. Visit the Female Factory at Cascades Visit the World Heritage Cascades Female Factory, which is one of 11 convict sites in Australia. Although small, it is mighty as it provides an insight into the life of a female convict back in 1828. Female convicts were put into three distinct classes that suffered if they spoke to someone who wasn’t in their class. The class system also regulated clothing and daily tasks of the women while being in the factory, which involved unrelenting hours of labour. <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/BsZmmoFArVH/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="12"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"></div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <a style="color: #000; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BsZmmoFArVH/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank">Dramatic skies added to the eerie feeling at the Cascades Female Factory last week as fires burned in Tasmania's wilderness World Heritage Area and the smoke crept over kunanyi/Mount Wellington - #cascadesfemalefactory #hobartandbeyond #femaleconvicts #discovertasmania #bushfires #worldheritagearea #eeriesky #nofilter</a> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;">A post shared by <a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/cascadesfemalefactory/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank"> Cascades Female Factory</a> (@cascadesfemalefactory) on Jan 8, 2019 at 8:15pm PST </div> </blockquote> 3. Explore MONA Catch the ferry up to the Museum of Old and New Art, which is affectionately referred to as MONA. There is a handheld device that’s given to each museum entrant for free that tells you about the work on display, as well as giving you the option to both “love” and “hate” the artwork. The museum makes small changes at a time and “re-hang” the artwork a couple times of year. <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/B1ssydwpBw_/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="12"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"></div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <a style="color: #000; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/B1ssydwpBw_/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank">Heart of glass. ⁣ ⁣ Artworks: Pulse Room, 2006, Rafael Lozano-Hemmer;⁣ Fat Car, 2006, Erwin Wurm</a> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;">A post shared by <a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/monamuseum/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank"> Museum of Old and New Art</a> (@monamuseum) on Aug 27, 2019 at 11:58pm PDT </div> </blockquote>

Domestic Travel

Why this is the best time of year to visit Tasmania

Indulge in Tasmania’s rich history, vast wilderness areas, spectacular mountains, dazzling beaches and the freshest food and wine imaginable. Experience the best Tasmania has to offer on an all-inclusive luxury tour with Discover Australia Holidays, and right now you can <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.discoveraustralia.com.au/holiday-packages/touring/tasmania.html?utm_medium=referrer&utm_source=OverSixty&utm_campaign=Tasmania_Touring_STS_2019" target="_blank">save 21%. </a> Home to just 500,000 people, the island of Tasmania is as intimate as it is beautiful. Its gorgeous capital city, Hobart, is home to MONA, one of the world's most intriguing art galleries, while northern Launceston is one of the few cities on the planet to be wrapped around a gorge. As you tour the island state you can go from beach-lined coasts to World Heritage-listed mountain areas in just a few hours. Along the way you'll pass welcoming farm-gate producers, cellar doors and restaurants specialising in local produce so fresh it's the envy of the culinary world. Immerse yourself in the natural treasures of Tassie with splendid wilderness cruises, exclusive access tours and more special touches from Discover Australia Holidays. Now is the perfect time to book your summer adventure. Compare 18 amazing <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.discoveraustralia.com.au/holiday-packages/touring/tasmania.html?utm_medium=referrer&utm_source=OverSixty&utm_campaign=Tasmania_Touring_STS_2019" target="_blank">Tassie touring packages </a>such as the three listed here. Hobart All-Inclusive Touring Enjoy all-inclusive Hobart touring at its best, featuring Bruny Island Wilderness with eco cruise, Port Arthur, Tasman Peninsula, MONA, special Peppermint Bay lunch cruise, more magnificent cruises and more meals. Everything is included in this popular 6-day package including flights, Tasmania luxury touring, 3 cruises, accommodation, breakfast daily and personalised transfers. Enjoy breakfast daily and luxury coach tours of Port Arthur, MONA and Hobart. Experience a famous wildlife eco-cruise around Bruny Island’s rugged coast, a cruise along the Derwent River and a special lunch at Peppermint Bay. Check out the <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.discoveraustralia.com.au/holiday-packages/hobart-all-inclusive-mp55.html?utm_medium=referrer&utm_source=OverSixty&utm_campaign=Tasmania_Touring_STS_2019" target="_blank">6-Day Hobart All-Inclusive Touring</a> from just $1,110. Hobart & Launceston All-Inclusive Touring Combine Hobart and Launceston based touring, featuring Cradle Mountain, Bay of Fires, Cataract Gorge, Bruny Island Wilderness Coast, Port Arthur, amazing cruises and more meals. This incredible 10-day package includes 5 nights in Hobart and 4 nights in Launceston. Find out more about the <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.discoveraustralia.com.au/holiday-packages/hobart-launceston-all-inclusive-mp293.html?utm_medium=referrer&utm_source=OverSixty&utm_campaign=Tasmania_Touring_STS_2019" target="_blank">10-Day Hobart & Launceston All-Inclusive Touring </a>from just $2,060. Tasmania All-Inclusive Touring You just can’t get too much of Tasmania. This comprehensive all-inclusive touring holiday features some of Tasmania’s best features, like Wineglass Bay, Cradle Mountain, Bay of Fires, the Huon Valley, Russell Falls, Port Arthur, Bruny Island, Mt Wellington, Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary and much more. Enjoy 5 cruises, including a special gourmet lunch cruises to Peppermint Bay and Batman Bridge, and cruises to Bruny Island, Carnarvon Bay and the Derwent River. Experience a gourmet food tour, abalone, chocolate, wine, cheese and fruit tastings. Take in the spectacular views of the azure waters at Wineglass Bay and get up close to Tasmanian Devils. Spend 10 days in Hobart and 5 days in Launceston in the all-inclusive package, including flights, luxury coach touring, cruises, hotels, breakfast daily, more meals and personalised transfers. Experience truly memorable Tasmania touring. Check out the <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.discoveraustralia.com.au/holiday-packages/tasmania-all-inclusive-mp309.html?utm_medium=referrer&utm_source=OverSixty&utm_campaign=Tasmania_Touring_STS_2019" target="_blank">15-Day Tasmania All-Inclusive Touring </a>from just $3,026. Compare Tasmania Touring Choose between 18 amazing Tasmanian touring holidays from a 5-day essentials escape, through to 2-week overnight premium coach touring. Summer is a great time to visit Tasmania and now is the best time to book to secure the best deal. Right now, you can save up to 21% with the Summer Travel Sale prices across the <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.discoveraustralia.com.au/holiday-packages/touring/tasmania.html?utm_medium=referrer&utm_source=OverSixty&utm_campaign=Tasmania_Touring_STS_2019" target="_blank">full range</a> of Tassie tours – exclusive to Discover Australia Holidays. But hurry, they’re selling out fast. Scroll through the gallery above to see beautiful Tasmania.

Domestic Travel

Aussies sleep through chilliest night in 20 years

Temperatures have plummeted over the weekend, as a cold snap flew in across the southeast of the country giving Aussies chilly weather, strong winds and the looming threat of flash flooding. Although most of March gave surprising warmer weather in the wake of Autumn, Sydney residents received a frosty 13-degree wakeup call yesterday morning with it being the chilliest night in March in over 20 years. Saturday night fell to 12.9 degrees in the city’s CBD, just a touch warmer than the temperature recorded at Sydney Airport. Thredbo started receiving snowfall Saturday afternoon, where it dropped to -4.2 degrees that night, being one of the coldest places in the country and an 18-year low in March. The temperature is expected to remain cool for the following week, although Sydney is predicted to be hit with the reminder of a summer's day by hitting a balmy 27 degrees on Thursday. South Australia, Tasmania and Victoria were hit with the heaviest showers recorded in months, with 10-15cm of snow recorded on the peaks of the Tassie highlands. Melbourne hit 15.6 degrees during the weekend, just narrowly missing the city’s coldest March day in 41 years at 15.3 degrees. Mount Hotham and Falls Creek received snow during the weekend and -4-degree weather hitting in parts of the state’s Alpine region. Hobart had its own run-in with torrential rain by receiving 129 millimetres falling over the course of the night, the fifth time the city has recorded more than 100 millimetres of rain since 1982. Were you caught by surprise by the cool change on the weekend? Tell us in the comments below.

Domestic Travel

How to see Hobart on any budget

Tasmania is quickly becoming the foodie capital of Australia, as a wave of hotel development and direct flights from the Gold Coast and Adelaide make it easier to get to that end of Australia. For a city of 211,566, that’s not a bad thing at all. Destination Southern Tasmania chief executive Melinda Anderson says that Tasmania is full of unexpected discoveries. She told <a href="https://www.escape.com.au/australia/tasmania/hobart-tasmania-best-hotels-for-budget-midrange-luxury/news-story/eae76d82a42348697fc93f5e0e8b763e">Escape</a>: “Foodies are flocking here, and drink producers are finding innovative ways to develop their craft. New eateries such as Atmosphere by Frogmore, Landscape, Pearl and Co and The Glasshouse are exciting new developments on Hobart’s waterfront. “Just a hop step and jump away you will find the Agrarian Kitchen and Eatery, and Fat Pig Farm showcasing our regional produce, not to mention award-winning distilleries including Grandvewe, Shene, Redlands and McHenry.” If your tastebuds are tempted, there are a few hotels available to suit your budget. Affordable: Ibis Styles, Hobart With 10 floors and 296 rooms to choose from, the Ibis Styles hotel in Hobart is bound to suit your needs. There’s an indoor pool, two saunas as well as an Asian restaurant within the hotel and as it’s located within the city, you’re never too far away from the action. A night here starts from $136. Mid-range: The Old Woolstore Apartment Hotel<a href="https://www.oldwoolstore.com.au/stay-in-hobart-cbd-v2.html"></a> This four-star hotel is right within the centre of Hobart and just a six-minute walk from the Tasmanian Museum. You’ll feel right at home staying at a National Trust listed building that offers a balance of timeless charm and modern comfort. A night here starts from $263. Luxury: Henry Jones Art Hotel This five-star hotel is the first hotel in Australia to be completely dedicated to art. As it’s located within the Hunter Street precinct along Hobart, the hotel combines a modern feel with an industrial past. With 500 contemporary Tasmanian artworks along the hotel walls, the hotel is a mix of indulgence and discovery. A night here starts from $320. Scroll through the gallery above to see what these hotels look like. Have you stayed in any of these hotels? Let us know in the comments.

Domestic Travel

Do you live on the worst road in Australia?

<div class="post_body_wrapper"> <div class="post_body"> <div class="body_text "> Hazardous roads in capital cities around the country have been revealed by insurer AAMI’s 2018 National Crash Index. It’s based on data from accident insurance claims, reports the <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-6233801/Do-live-worst-road-Australia-streets-crashes-occur-revealed.html" target="_blank">Daily Mail</a>. North Melbourne suburb Bundoora is Australia’s top danger hotspot for car accidents according to the report, due to the high-traffic Plenty Road. Ms Ashleigh Paterson, spokesperson for AAMI, said this was because of the road’s multiple lanes of traffic and traffic lights, a major tram route, and two of Melbourne’s major universities causing “extreme congestion during peak hours.” Unsurprisingly, highways and motorways feature prominently in the survey, including Sydney’s Hume Highway and M4 Motorway at Parramatta, Canberra’s Monaro Highway, Perth’s Albany Highway and Great Eastern Highway, Melbourne’s Burwood Highway, and Hobart’s Brooker Highway. AAMI reports that other areas around the country with the most car accidents include: Sydney: Pennant Hills Road in Pennant Hills, Pacific Highway in Chatswood, and Stacey Street, Bankstown. Brisbane: Gympie Road, Chermside and Aspley, and Mains Road, Sunnybank. Canberra: Canberra Avenue in Fyshwick, Anketell Street in Greenway, and Gungahlin Drive in Gungahlin. Melbourne: Doncaster Road in Doncaster, Springvale Road in Glen Waverley, and Stud Road in Rowville. Perth: Garden City in Booragoon, Ranford Road in Canning Vale, and Joondalup Drive in Joondalup. Adelaide: The Parade in Norwood, Marion Road in Marion, and Brighton Road in Brighton. Hobart: Argyle Street, Macquarie Street, Davey Street in Hobart; and Sandy Bay Road in Sandy Bay. The insurer’s report confirms all the red flags we should be looking out for in highly congested roadways such as frequent stopping and starting, changes in driving conditions, and multiple intersections. Ms Paterson reminded motorists of the need to maintain concentration while driving as a key measure to prevent accidents. But mobile use continues to hamper this as AAMI’s research shows. 35 per cent of those motorists surveyed said they texted while stopped at traffic lights, and 31 per cent said they held their handset as they spoke while driving. AAMI also revealed that a disturbing amount of motorists – 38 per cent – weren’t aware that it is illegal to have your handset in your lap on speakerphone as you drive. And if it irks you to see people blatantly using their mobiles as they drive, you’re in the majority with 67 per cent of motorists feeling the same way. Ms Patterson said mobile use is one of the key causes of car accidents. Are governments doing enough to make our roads safe? Tell us in the comments below. </div> </div> </div> <div> <div class="replay_area"> <div class="replay"> <div class="reply_body body linkify"><a href="https://over60.monday.com/users/1552837-fiona-tomarchio" class="user_name router"></a> <div class="reply_body"> <div class="body_text "> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div>

Legal

8 things you haven’t done in Hobart

Hobart is the jewel in the crown of the Apple Isle, and certainly one of those destinations where those who are willing to get off the main strip and explore, are amply rewarded. While it might pale in comparison to the size of a Sydney or Melbourne, Hobart more than makes up for it in charm, and as many Hobartians will tell you, there’s so much to see and do here that you could come back time and time again without doing the same thing twice. If you’re planning a trip to Tassie in the near future, or simply looking for an excuse to do so, we’ve put together a list containing eight things you haven’t done in Hobart. To see them all, scroll through the gallery above. Have you ever been to Hobart? What’s your favourite thing to do there?

International Travel

Calls to ban cruise ships from Aussie tourist hotspot

Few forms of travel are as polarising as cruising, and the industry is set to be the centre of another debate as calls to ban cruise ships from an Aussie tourist hotspot intensify. Tasmania is set to play host to 125 cruise ships this year, docking in Burnie and Hobart, with 29 making a stop at Port Arthur and six stopping at Freycinet and Wineglass Bay. This has prompted a petition for the State Government to ban large cruise ships from entering the waters around the national park, which has collected 12,000 signatures. The petition is calling for an exclusion zone to be set up around all Tasmanian national park areas, to protect the biodiversity that is unique to the region. Dr Sue Beeton, professor of tourism at William Angliss Institute, believes this is essential, telling <a href="http://www.abc.net.au/" target="_blank">ABC Radio Hobart</a>, “Cruise shipping, I would say, is one of the most highly divisive aspects of tourism in that these enormous ships are so visible. “There's a growing sense of privilege and expectations to also access more and more remote areas and often in a comfortable way.” Luke Martin from the Tourism Industry Council of Tasmania said now is the time for the State Government to figure out what the Apple Isle wants from the industry. “We need to look at how we manage this appropriately,” he said. “There are destinations all over the world that have dealt with this in good ways and bad ways.” Do you agree with the moves to ban cruise ships from this Aussie tourist hotspot?

Cruising

This city is banning plastic takeaway containers

An Australian city has promised to ban plastic takeaway containers in the next three years. Hobart City Council decided on Monday night they would axe containers by 2020, in their latest moves in its war on waste. Tasmania’s Plastic Shopping Ban Act 2013 prevents retailers from supplying shoppers with lightweight plastic shopping bags. However, this does not include plastics bags that are biodegradable, resealable zipper storage bags, heavier and thicker plastic bags, and plastic bags that are part of packaging for items like bread, frozen food or ice bags. Hobart alderman Bill Harvey said the ban on plastic containers would set an example for the whole country, <a href="http://www.themercury.com.au/" target="_blank">The Mercury</a> reports. “This is something that I think will have an impact on society,” he said. “It’s time to start moving on an issue like this and the council can be a national leader.”

News

Surprise Aussie city ranked 34th for property price growth

Humble Hobart, which was languishing at number 77 in the Knight Frank Global Residential Cities Index last year, has suddenly leapt this year to the 34th spot, only 11 places behind Sydney and 10 behind Melbourne, with price growth of 11.3 per cent. “That is a surprise,” says AMP Capital chief economist Dr Shane Oliver. “But we have been seeing stronger price growth in Hobart in recent times, starting to catch up but still with a long way to go. “With high prices in Sydney and Melbourne, people have started looking around for better value elsewhere to live or buy an investment property and Hobart is well-priced and rental yields on, say, three-bedroom houses, are a lot higher – 5.1 per cent compared to Sydney’s 2.8 per cent and Melbourne’s 2.6 per cent.” The latest report from the independent global property consultancy Knight Frank tracked the performance of mainstream house prices across 150 cities worldwide up to the end of the first quarter of 2017. Its average increase for the year was 6.9 per cent. It found the top rankings to be still dominated by Chinese cities, with Toronto and Hamilton in Canada coming in at numbers four and seven. The best performing city in Australasia was Wellington in New Zealand, at number 11, with a rise of 20.6 per cent over the year to March 2017. Sydney came 23rd with rises of 14.4 per cent, Melbourne 24th with 13.4 per cent, and the Tasmanian capital only 10 rungs behind. Knight Frank’s head of residential research for Australia, Michelle Ciesielski, says Hobart prices improved partly as a result of people from Sydney and Melbourne looking for more affordable alternatives in the property market. “As buyers have become priced out of Sydney and Melbourne, as investors or owner-occupiers, they’re looking towards markets with lower entry prices and better-returning yields,” she says. “Hobart houses and apartments both fall into these categories when compared to other cities across Australia.” Hobart’s median house price is still below $400,000, according to Domain Group chief economist Dr Andrew Wilson, as against Melbourne’s approaching $900,000 and Sydney’s at just below $1.2 million. “Hobart has been a very good performer over the past year as there’s been a strong movement of people from Melbourne and Sydney down to Hobart,” he says. “The affordability of Hobart has been a key driver of that and, while Tasmanian previously had the worst unemployment of all the capital cities, which has kept price growth subdued, that’s recently improved too.” In Hobart itself, most real estate agents are delighted at how highly they’re now ranking, but say they’re not surprised at all. “The market is going exceptionally well at the moment,” says <a href="https://www.domain.com.au/real-estate-agent/gary-cooley-1228117/" target="_blank">Gary Cooley</a> of <a href="https://www.domain.com.au/real-estate-agencies/ljhookerhobart-23149/" target="_blank">LJ Hooker Hobart</a>. “There’s a lot of confidence in the state now which is boosting activity and there are a lot of people coming down here to buy, and there’s a real shortage of properties and high rental returns.” He’s currently selling a good-quality three-bedroom home at <a href="https://www.domain.com.au/9-walana-street-geilston-bay-tas-7015-2013604726" target="_blank">9 Walana Street in Hobart’s Geilston Bay</a> for offers over $425,000. Similarly, <a href="https://www.domain.com.au/real-estate-agencies/raywhitehobart-19420/" target="_blank">Ray White Hobart</a> agent <a href="https://www.domain.com.au/real-estate-agent/conor-canning-1169721/" target="_blank">Conor Canning</a> is selling a three-bedroom wilderness retreat at <a href="https://www.domain.com.au/10-old-farm-road-south-hobart-tas-7004-2013670651" target="_blank">South Hobart’s 10 Old Farm Road</a>, seven minutes from the CBD, for mid-$300,000. “We’re flat out,” he says. “We’ve got quite a lot of people from Melbourne and Sydney relocating here as for a standard three-bedroom house there, you can buy something incredible here – either a lifestyle property or one in a trendy suburb – with great views and close to great schools. “For investment property, we have the lowest vacancy rates in Australia too, and a lot of buyers are renting out on Stayz or Airbnb and making a lot of money. We offer fantastic value and there’s a real cultural buzz about the place now.” Baby Boomers retiring to the Apple Isle are also creating a strong demand for property, believes <a href="https://www.domain.com.au/real-estate-agent/hans-waldhoff-509783/" target="_blank">Hans Waldhoff</a> of <a href="https://www.domain.com.au/real-estate-agencies/eldersbrownbanks-1176/" target="_blank">Elders Brown and Banks</a>. “We have a very good climate down here and there’s a lot of demand from Sydney and Melbourne, and from overseas now,” he says. “People now realise it’s a great place to live.” Written by Sue Williams. First appeared on <a href="http://www.domain.com.au" target="_blank">Domain.com.au.</a>

Retirement Income

5 of the best activities to try in Hobart

Great food and wine, incredible art, picturesque islands and rugged scenery – Tasmania has it all. Here are the best things to do in and around the capital. 1. Museum of Old and New Art (MONA) It’s the coolest, quirkiest and downright strangest museum in the country – and also one of the best. This museum itself is a work of art, a vast steel and rock structure that is carved right into a bank on the Derwent River. Inside, it has an incredible collection that ranges from 2,000 year old mummies to innovative light installations. There’s even an R-rated section full of sexy pieces and a decidedly spooky death room. Plus it’s on the grounds of the Moorilla Winery, perfect for a post-gallery pick me up. 2. Salamanca Market Down on Hobart’s waterfront, the Salamanca Market is a Saturday institution. There are more than 300 stalls offering fresh fruit and vegetables, cheese, wine and spirits, local crafts, clothes, timber design pieces and organic cosmetics. Then there’s a delicious range of hot food, like bread, pies, pastries and more, and coffee to warm you up. Leave some space in your suitcase for the inevitable purchases. 3. Beer, wine and whisky Do you know where the best whisky in the world is made? Hobart. Sullivan’s Cove French Oak cask was named best single malt in the world at the World Whiskies Awards in 2014 – and the distillery is in the Hobart suburb of Cambridge. Take a tour and sample some of the best. Tasmania’s famed Cascade brewery sits just outside central Hobart at the foot of Mt Wellington and also offers tours, with the obligatory tastings. Then there is the endless supply of delicious Tasmanian wine to be drunk – we recommend the Ninth Island pinot noir. 4. Visit the islands The gourmet paradise of Bruny Island is just a short ferry ride from Kettering, 45 minutes southwest Hobart. Spend the day sampling cheese, smoked meats, fresh oysters and ice cream, all washed down with a glass of local wine. To the northwest, Maria Island is ruggedly beautiful, with pristine beaches, hiking trails and unique wildlife, including Tasmanian devils. Both islands are easily accessible in a day trip from Hobart and well worth the journey. 5. Climb Mt Wellington Scale the 1,300 metre peak of Mt Wellington for an unbeatable vista of Hobart and the surrounding Derwent Valley. You can take the easy option and drive to the summit or there are a number of walking trails (of varying difficulty) as well as options for horseriding, mountain biking or rock climbing. Whichever you choose, the view from the top will take your breath away. Related links: <a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/travel/international/2016/05/where-are-the-worlds-busiest-airports/">Where are the world's busiest airports?</a> <a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/travel/international/2016/05/10-things-to-do-on-bruny-island/">10 things to do on Bruny Island</a> <a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/travel/international/2016/05/10-reasons-to-drop-everything-and-travel/">10 reasons to drop everything and travel</a>

International Travel

Supermodel Kirsty Hinze-Clarke becomes first female yacht owner to win Sydney to Hobart

Former supermodel Kristy Hinze-Clark has made history as the first female yacht owner to win the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race in Australia. After two days, eight hours, 58 minutes and 30 seconds, her boat, Comanche, crossed the finishing line to the 71st Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race for 2015. Hinze-Clark, the co-founder and co-skipper of the American boat, steered the yacht to victory, where her husband Jim Clark was waiting for her at Constitution Dock. “I just got more wet then that I did the entire race,” she laughed, when showered with champagne on her arrival at the finish line. Skipper Ken Read praised Hinze-Clarke, saying, “First time out in the open ocean. She has been out in plenty of boats but has never done anything like this.” “And she was as tough as nails. There was no babysitting involved and [she] did some driving and she is one the grinders and everything else. She as very impressive. Although damaged the first night, Comanche was a favourite in the race after returning from repairs. Related links: <a href="/news/news/2015/12/foods-that-mess-with-sleep/"></a> <a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/health/eye-care/2015/02/health-clues-from-eyes/" target="_self">5 health clues from your eyes</a> <a href="/news/news/2015/12/foods-that-mess-with-sleep/"></a> <a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/health/eye-care/2015/03/how-to-avoid-eyestrain-computer/" target="_self">How to avoid eye strain when using your computer or tablet</a> <a href="/news/news/2015/12/foods-that-mess-with-sleep/"></a> <a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/health/eye-care/2015/03/state-of-world-eyesight/" target="_self">Some interesting statistics on the state of the world’s eyesight</a>

News

Hobart's $35,000 Christmas decorations come under fire

It’s that time of year when the streets are decked with festive lights, carolers fill the shopping centres and Christmas trees are unveiled. But, according to social media followers of Hobart City Council, the streets of Salamanca Place are anything but festive. Hobart City Council have erected a giant blue light up Christmas tree, which according to comments on social media, is “possibly the worst Christmas decorations in the country.” In an announcement on the council’s Facebook page, the tree “utilises a brand new technology called LED Rope Light… up cycled from Syrup Nightclub minimising the environmental impact.” The council have revealed they paid $35,000 for the less-than-impressive decorations, leaving local tax payers furious. "Our council officers designed, created and built this particular Christmas tree and we think it's a really modern and trendy addition in this fairly funky area," says Lord Mayor Sue Hickey. Ron Christie, head of the creative team on Hobart City Council, has hit back at public criticism with a hint of satire. "People don’t realise it’s there at first as it blends in with the street lights and garbage bins and then suddenly BAM! They get smacked on the forehead with some creative genius. I mean it is beautiful and replicas are available from Shiploads for $5.75," he said on the council Facebook page. But that hasn’t stopped locals from criticizing the town’s new festive face lift. Geelong Major Darryn Lyons has even gotten involved. Geelong Council spent a whopping $1 million on a 25-metre tall floating tree. The Major tweeted: “Hanahahahah hilliarious [sic]” The conversation continued with hundreds of people taking aim at Hobart’s Christmas decoration fail. “$35 K for this ? Words fail me - yet again. I've got an old welding kit in my shed - could have knocked this up for less than a grand” – Reg Watson “$35,000...... tell him he's dreaming......” - Andrew Chamberlain “ This is so embarrassing, not to mention a crime against Christmas! Someone with zero taste signed off on this.” – Elli Koumos “ I showed my 8yo, to get her opinion: "that's not even a tree". Ouch.” – Charles Gregory “Wait, that's a Christmas display and not a bunch of rubbish left out for council collection!?!?” – Craig Frankin “Hideous joke. Only one laughing is the provider. Well that's Christmas ruined for the kids. “ – Audrey Collins "Looking at the materials and assembly, I'd say somebody's just made off with about $34,000. No , Hobart. You can do better.” - katherinemrohan. "That is quite literally the worst attempt at a Christmas tree I have ever seen. I wouldn't care except that this not only cost ratepayers money but if the council thinks this represents a new modern Hobart, I shudder to think what their plans are a ongoing new modern local development." – Ben Cameron Tell us: Do you think these Christmas decorations are festive, or a fail? Related Links: <a href="/lifestyle/diy/2015/09/how-to-make-a-floating-bookshelf/">How to make a floating bookshelf</a> <a href="/lifestyle/diy/2015/07/diy-nature-place-cards/">3 easy-to-make place cards</a> <a href="/lifestyle/diy/2015/08/diy-refurbished-planters/">3 DIY ways to revamp your planters</a>

News

The best ways to spend Australia Day

Australia Day is a day to celebrate Australia and being Australian because, and we’re trying not to be biased here, this really is the best country with the best people. Here are the biggest events going on around the country but check your local council’s website for events closer to your area.SYDNEYThere are plenty of events all around the Sydney CBD during the long weekend. There will be a <a href="http://www.australiaday.com.au/event/summer-playground/" target="_blank">Summer Playground in Hyde Park</a> for the kids with interactive zones, activities and the chance to meet beloved children’s characters like Dora, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and SpongeBob SquarePants. <a href="http://www.australiaday.com.au/event/australia-day-spectacular/" target="_blank">Darling Harbour</a> will be a site of family-free entertainment from noon. Make sure you’re there for the official NSW Australia Day Spectacular – a dazzling extravaganza of fireworks, digital effects, multi-media and music!MELBOURNEWander down for a picnic at Kings Domain Gardens for the<a href="http://www.australiaday.vic.gov.au/whats-on/racv-australia-day-picnic-and-federation-vehicle-display/" target="_blank"> RACV Australia Day Picnic</a>. They’ll be plenty to keep you entertained with an enchanted forest craft installation, dingoes, owls and snakes, 400 historical vehicles and a chess master. Or line up along Swanston Street to grab the best view of the colourful <a href="http://www.australiaday.vic.gov.au/whats-on/australia-day-parade/" target="_blank">Australia Day Parade</a>. It will start at 11am and meander along Swanston Street, over Princess Bridge and into Kings Domain.Head to the <a href="http://www.australiaday.vic.gov.au/whats-on/docklands-fireworks/" target="_blank">Docklands</a> for live performances, wildlife demonstrations, kids’ activities and of course, the breathtaking fireworks display after sundown.BRISBANEWith its shady trees and panoramic views of Brisbane River and the city, <a href="http://qld.australiaday.org.au/whats-on/australia-day-long-weekender/" target="_blank">South Bank Parklands “Long Weekender” </a>is the place to go for your Australia Day celebrations. There will be over 70 free music performances over the long weekend including children’s performances by favourites Toasted TV, Totally Wild, Lissa and Nee Nee and Jelly Kids. Spectacular fireworks will light up the city skyline on Australia Day eve, not Australia Day.PERTHThe <a href="http://visitperthcity.com/skyworks" target="_blank">City of Perth Australia Day Skyworks</a> returns to the Swan River foreshore for another year of celebrating all things Australian. There’s hundreds of free family entertainment at the Langley Park Entertainment Zone including a water park, circus shows, sand sculpturing, motocross displays and toddler town. The day will end with the Skyworks fireworks finale, which will include a special laser and water show that will certainly wow viewers. ADELAIDEElder Park will once again host <a href="http://www.australiadayinthecity.com.au/" target="_blank">Adelaide’s Australia Day in the City</a>, a twilight event with parades, concerts and fireworks. The night begins with the country’s largest Australia Day Parade – more than 4000 people walked the streets in 2014 and this year promises to be bigger and better. Following the parade, a free family concert will kick off with Aussie dance-music group Sneaky Sound System before the finale of glittering fireworks.DARWINFollowing the great success in 2013, <a href="http://www.darwincommunityarts.org.au/Oz_Fusion" target="_blank">Oz Fusion</a> will again celebrate the rich cultural diversity of this country on Australia Day with performances and food. For a full program of performances, <a href="http://www.darwincommunityarts.org.au/sites/default/files/OzFusion%20for%20Australia%20Day%202014%20-%20Program.pdf" target="_blank">click here</a>. CANBERRA  Head to Commonwealth Park for <a href="http://events.act.gov.au/whats-on-in-canberra/event/9003243/australia-day-in-the-park" target="_blank">Australia Day in the Park</a> events and activities. There will be a Children's Concert, featuring free, live entertainment as well as ride, amusements and games.HOBARTSpend Australia Day at the beach, specifically at the <a href="http://www.adayonthebeach.com.au/" target="_blank">A Day on the Beach</a> event that promises loads of free sporting activities, live music, sandcastle competition, beachside breakfast, two Big Aussie BBQs, double decker buses, sailing, swimming, giant inflatable slide and the pristine backdrop of Kingston Beach.

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The best ways to spend Australia Day

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