All articles from our website & appThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxInteractive Crosswords Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueLaunceston City showed on Saturday they could be Launceston's first team to win an NPL Tasmania title City claimed their biggest scalp of the young season on Saturday thrashing reigning premiers Glenorchy 5-1 in a statement to the rest of the competition The win at KGV moved them into second place in the standings given that a Launceston-based team has never placed higher than fourth in the state competition Early season form indicates that not only can they improve on that result but they are a strong chance of going all the way and winning the NPL Tasmania championship City coach Daniel Syson says that while belief is growing around the club they're trying to manage their expectations since it's still early in the season "We have to be careful of not getting too carried away because we're still in the first third of the season," Syson said "A result like that [Saturday's win] just gives them confidence in how they're performing and the hard work they're putting in every single week when we train to reward them a bit and show them that they don't really need to fear anyone in the league." Saturday's win was set up by a brace from Will Humphrey who buried a pair of free kicks in the 18th and 23rd minute to get City out to a 2-0 start "That just comes down to his individual quality and anyone that's seen him in around the training ground knows he's capable of doing that," the coach said "When they've been practising free kicks that's the regular I mean it's surprising that you can hit two with that quality in a row in a short period of time." Thierry Swaby headed-in Launceston City's fourth goal against Glenorchy on Saturday Picture by Craig GeorgeStar recruit Angus Taylor got City out to 3-0 lead in the 42nd minute set up by a brilliant centering ball courtesy of Daniel Wojcik Syson said that his boys did a great job of getting the game on their terms early and maintaining that throughout the rest of the contest probably for 70 minutes of that game we were comfortable in possession and we played the way we wanted to play," he said In the second half the Knights did get a goal back through Thomas Walpole but City added another two of their own thanks to an 89th minute header courtesy of Thierry Swaby and a 95th minute own goal City's only blemish was an injury to Mana Yawngtun This gave 15-year-old Wojcik a chance to make an impact "Mana was still determined to stay on even though I could see him wincing but to have someone of Daniel Wojcik's quality to come in; he's 15 years old and played like he was 26 City now turn their attention crosstown rivals Riverside Olympic who went down to South Hobart 3-0 and I think we only conceded one goal and we won every game," the coach said "It's a massive win if we win and just need to continue to do what we're doing and follow the process through." City will host Riverside Olympic at Prospect Park on Saturday May I was born and raised in Tassie and enjoy telling the stories that local sport has to offer. Contact me at ryan.bentley@austcommunitymedia.com.au Today's top stories curated by our news team Grab a quick bite of today's latest news from around the region and the nation Catch up on the news of the day and unwind with great reading for your evening Get the editor's insights: what's happening & why it matters tips & travel writing to transport you around the globe Your weekday morning newsletter on national affairs Your essential national news digest: all the big issues on Wednesday and great reading every Saturday Let the ACM network's editors and journalists bring you news and views from all over reviews and expert insights every Thursday from CarExpert Your digital replica of Today's Paper Test your skills with interactive crosswords Photo: Tracey Nearmy/AAP PHOTOSA woman in her 60s has been charged with manslaughter over the death of a baby Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueEmergency services attended a property at Darra in Brisbane's southwest on April 3 following reports an infant was unconscious and not breathing The baby boy was later declared dead at the scene Police established Operation Whiskey Nocturne to investigate his death and on Monday detectives charged a 63-year-old Darra woman with manslaughter She is due to appear before Richland Magistrates Court on June 4 Launceston has been named Australia’s tidiest town beating five other communities to claim the prestigious 2025 Keep Australia Beautiful Tidy Towns Award City of Launceston Deputy Mayor Hugh McKenzie and Sustainability Team Leader Michael Attard travelled to Beechworth in Victoria to collect the award on behalf of the northern Tasmanian community Launceston’s victory follows its state-level win at the Keep Australia Beautiful Awards last November Mayor Matthew Garwood described the win as a significant achievement for the city “The City of Launceston has been working hard in the environmental sustainability space for many years and this prestigious national award recognises the many council and community collaborations that have been occurring across Northern Tasmania” Mayor Garwood said The judging panel specifically acknowledged several innovative local initiatives including Spring Clean Rocherlea the Launceston Repair Cafe and various circular economy projects “Each of these projects are partnerships between our council and our community and that is what has driven their success,” Mayor Garwood said With the national title comes the responsibility of hosting next year’s awards ceremony with hundreds of delegates expected to visit Launceston for the 2026 event “Launceston cannot wait to host the 2026 Keep Australia Beautiful Tidy Town Awards delegates and to take advantage of the opportunity to showcase our city on the national stage,” Mayor Garwood said Garwood say the city wouldn’t become complacent We will continue to look at ways in which we can continue to innovate and maintain this standard,” he said Send your photos, videos and tip-offs to[email protected], use our News Tips form or call and leave us a message on 03 6124 2526 Pulse Tasmania is published by Pulse Media Group Pty Ltd Mayor Matthew Garwood said the award recognised several years of hard work by the council and community members to "protect and celebrate" the region's natural values Launceston has been named the national winner of the Tidy Towns Awards for 2025 File picture by Paul Scambler"The awards recognised innovative projects like Spring Clean Rocherlea our circular economy initiatives and a number of community events," Cr Garwood said "Each of these projects are partnerships between our council and our community and that is what has driven their success." Other initiatives singled out for praise included the council's home energy audit toolkits and two strategic documents - the Towards Zero Emissions Action Plan and the City Sustainability Strategy and Action Plan The mayor said the award set a benchmark for the city, and the focus was now on maintaining and improving the standard of environmental sustainability The annual awards - held nationally since the 1990s - recognise efforts made by communities towards sustainability Initially municipalities were judged on cleanliness and a lack of litter, however in more recent years the focus was broadened to other aspects of sustainability like resource recovery and the conservation of cultural and natural heritage values. Launceston's win marks the seventh time a Tasmanian town has won the national award, the previous one being Flinders Island in 2022. As the national winner, Launceston has hosting rights for the 2026 awards ceremony. Clifford ran the 10-kilometre race in 27:34 which was an Australian record in the road 10km run category The record was previously held by Jack Rayner who set the previous record time of 27:43 in 2022 at the Burnie 10 Clifford set the new national benchmark in the Tokyo Speed Race which was created so that the runners could do exactly what the 22-year-old did - beat records Sam Clifford is now the Australian record holder for the 10km road run Picture by Phillip BiggsThe athletes were aided in their mission by LED lights around the perimeter of the track that set the pace for a variety of times It was much like the world record line that is superimposed onto the pool during Olympic swimming except the runners could actually see the line It all made for quite the spectacle as some of the world's best runners ran in small packs trying to keep to the time set by the LEDs And all of this was set to the vast skyline of Tokyo at night 24 seconds behind Ethiopian race winner Jemal Yimer It was a bizarre end to the race as Kenyan runner Vincent Kibet Langat went straight on with about 200 metres to go instead of making the turn for the finish line This error gifted Yimer the win and Victor Kipruto second place Photo: Sarah Rhodes/AAP PHOTOSCome down for air Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueLong admired for its fresh air the island state has been officially recognised for its sustainability credentials The city of Launceston has been named the national winner of Keep Australia Beautiful's Tidy Towns Award The honour recognises sustainability efforts in regional and rural Australia environmental innovation and community engagement Launceston has been lauded for its environmental and social works (Sarah Rhodes/AAP PHOTOS)Launceston was announced the winner at a ceremony in Beechworth "This award isn't just about one town - it's a celebration of every community working to build a cleaner kinder future and we're proud to support that mission," Keep Australia Beautiful's chief executive Val Southam said the Tidy Towns Awards show the best of regional Australia - not just in sustainability but in spirit "These winners show that when locals come together with purpose Ikuntji in the Northern Territory and the Pilbara towns of Port Hedland and South Hedland in Western Australia were the other finalists Launceston's Rocherlea Action Project was singled out for its community work 1.7 tonnes of waste and three tonnes of scrap metal from the region The volunteer group brings residents together for regular clean-up days barbecue breakfasts and children's activities to foster connection Launceston has previously been named Australia's town of the year and most livable regional city (Sarah Rhodes/AAP PHOTOS)More than 4000 volunteers were involved in community environmental heritage and cultural projects across the six finalist cities and towns "Regional towns are stepping up in powerful ways," Ms Southam said "They're not just protecting their environments - they're showing what's possible when resilience purpose and local leadership come together for a better future." During earlier rounds of Tidy Towns voting mayor Matthew Garwood hailed the recognition of Launceston's environmental and social initiatives as an "incredible honour" "This Council is committed to doing whatever we can to help ensure our beautiful region is protected now and into the future," he said "I'd like to take this opportunity to thank our dedicated staff who've worked so hard to make these projects what they are and Keep Australia Beautiful for recognising us in this way." sat and watched as the future of the country was decided which turns the museum at Inveresk into a sci-fi safe haven a showdown by the Tasmanian Litesabre Alliance and a Planetarium talk about life beyond Earth QVMAG public programs officer Carmencita Palermo said the hustle and bustle across the country didn't dampen the mood of the sci-fi lovers May the fourth - Star Wars Day - fell on a Sunday this year and it was also the federal election weekend It was a great turnout and such a fun day," she said She described the day as "crazy" and said the museum was buzzing all day "The craft station was full of people creating their own costumes from recycled materials lots of children and adults too," she said "The cosplay competition had 80 or 90 people inside at a time many people moved into the board game area and kept playing until the event closed "Launceston artist Ben Winwood's caricature portrait station was busy all the time." Image supplied by QVMAG.Some of the standouts of the cosplay costume included the winner who had made an AT-ST - All Terrain Scout Transport for those not in the know - costume out of foam and cardboard Ms Palermo said these were just some of the hundreds of original ideas seen on the day QVMAG director Shane Fitzgerald said it was great to see the community's creativity at work "Our team has had a lot of fun putting this program together," he said "It's always fantastic to see the creativity of our community shine in the cosplay costume competition." Group of sci-fi fans dressed as Star Wars characters Image supplied by QVMAG.During a weekend in Australia where tensions become tight QVMadness allowed Launcestonians to come together "This is a free community event and an opportunity for all the sci-fi and fantasy fans out there to show and share their passion for the genre," Ms Palermo said "It's a chance for them to come together and explore their interests and experience QVMAG in a different way." with Ms Palermo saying the organisation hopes to continue this event well into the future "QVMadness is part of our regular calendar of Community Connect programs and it's one we hope to continue in the future," she said Journalist at The Examiner, covering police, arts, obituaries, local history and breaking news. Send tips to bailey.forbes@austcommunitymedia.com.au. All articles from our website & appThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxInteractive Crosswords, Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueNow that's come true after the Launceston Church Grammar School students scored lead roles in their school's production of Grease - The Musical. "The first musical I ever went to was Grease, I thought, 'I want to play Danny'," year 10 student Piers said. "So when I found out this show was Grease, I was super pumped to go for Danny, and I got him." Like many students in the cast, year 11 student Chloe said she's watched Grease "maybe 20 times". Chloe originally auditioned for Frenchy, but received a callback for Sandy, the female lead of the show. "I was a bit hesitant, do I say yes or no, but then I said yes and I'm glad I did," she said. Chloe Rosset, 17, and Piers Nicholls, 16, play the lead roles of Sandy Olsson and Danny Zuko in Grease - The Musical. Picture by Paul ScamblerLast year, Chloe was part of the school's musical ensemble - Strictly Ballroom - but unlike this year, she wasn't centre stage. "I was a bit nervous at first - but I've done a lot of drama and dancing, so now we've done it quite a lot, I've found my confidence and I'm excited," she said. The cast consists of more than 60 students from grade 8 to 12. Grammar drama teacher Marianna Lebiedzinska said the students enjoyed bringing the musical's famous characters to life. "It's a very big cast, but we wanted to have as many students involved as we possibly could," Ms Lebiedzinska said. Grease will hit the Princess Theatre from May 14 to 17. Tickets are available at theatrenorth.com.au/lcgs-grease-25. Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueSeth Connor Bellinger pleaded guilty to a count of dangerous driving on Pioneer Drive on January 26 Liena Street Mole Creek where an elderly couple were seriously impacted by the dangerous driving of an 18-year-old man Picture Google MapsCrown prosecutor John Ransom said that Bellinger and friends had been at the Mole Creek hotel when they decided to travel to a swimming spot He said Bellinger had four people in his Nissan Patrol when it raced a short distance with another vehicle Bellinger was on the incorrect side of the road marked with double white lines and close to a blind corner when he attempted to overtake the other vehicle about 83 metres west of a bridge on Liena Street were oncoming in a Hyundai when the collision occurred It was estimated Bellinger's vehicle was travelling at 80kmh when it left the roadway "The accused was transported to the Royal Hobart Hospital where a blood analysis returned a reading of 0.03," Mr Ransom said Three passengers in Bellinger's car were injured, and the Palfreys suffered serious injuries, which were outlined in a victim impact statement read by Chief Justice Chris Shanahan "It has clearly had quite a significant physical and psychological impact on the couple," he said Defence lawyer Grant Tucker apologised on behalf of Bellinger He said that the incident occurred on Australia Day after Bellinger and a group of friends had ended up at the Mole Creek Hotel He said that there was no discussion of a race with the driver of the other vehicle "It was a spontaneous race," Mr Shanahan remarked "It was a moment of stupidity that had horrifying consequences on everyone," Mr Tucker said He said that it was very short journey of two minutes Mr Tucker said when Bellinger saw the oncoming vehicle Mr Palfrey had driven into the same corridor "He did take steps which came to nothing," he said Chief Justice Shanahan said he would be very mindful of the victim's impact statement when sentencing but would also bear in mind that he was a young offender He ordered a pre-sentence report and that he be assessed for a home detention order I am the Supreme and Magistrates Court reporter for The Examiner. My journalism career has clicked over 34 years and encompasses four different spells at Tasmanian newspapers. Today's top stories curated by our news team. Also includes evening update. Grab a quick bite of today's latest news from around the region and the nation. Catch up on the news of the day and unwind with great reading for your evening. Get the editor's insights: what's happening & why it matters. Love footy? We've got all the action covered. The latest news, results & expert analysis. Every Saturday and Tuesday, explore destinations deals, tips & travel writing to transport you around the globe. Sharp. Close to the ground. Digging deep. Your weekday morning newsletter on national affairs, politics and more. Your essential national news digest: all the big issues on Wednesday and great reading every Saturday. Get real, Australia! Let the ACM network's editors and journalists bring you news and views from all over. Get news, reviews and expert insights every Thursday from CarExpert, ACM's exclusive motoring partner. Your digital replica of Today's Paper. Ready to read from 5am! Test your skills with interactive crosswords, sudoku & trivia. Fresh daily! Link copiedShareShare resultsBy chief election analyst Antony Green posted Fri at 2:00pmFriday 2 May 2025 at 2:00pmFri 2 May 2025 at 2:00pm Updated 1h ago1 hours agoMon 5 May 2025 at 12:05pm updated 10h ago10 hours agoMon 5 May 2025 at 3:03am | (Victories by a party of government are indicated by thick coloured underlining.) The Liberal Party recorded a majority of the two-party preferred vote in 34 of the 55 polling places used in 2019 on a wide range of results, rising from 35.2% at Inveresk Primary School in northern Launceston, to 70.6% at Winnaleah Memorial Hall in the state's north-east corner.(Click on polling place for results) Teesdale grew up in Launceston and graduated from the University of Tasmania in 2010 but was unable to get a job in the state and moved to the Northern Territory to start her teaching career. She returned ten years later and these days is a teacher at Launceston's Indie School. Larner is Tasmanian born and has lived in the Bass electorate for nearly three decades. They have raised five children and set up and run a successful small business plant propagation nursery. She has since retrained and returned to work as a Registered Nurse for a further decade. McLennan serves the community through her work as a lawyer, specialising in legal aid and domestic and family violence. Razay is a long-time Launceston doctor and City of Launceston councillor. He has spent 27 years working as a geriatrician at the Launceston General Hospital and was elected as a councillor in 2022. He polled 5% in Bass as an Independent in 2022. CNN and the BBC World Service which is copyright and cannot be reproduced AEST = Australian Eastern Standard Time which is 10 hours ahead of GMT (Greenwich Mean Time) Launceston has been named the national winner of the 2025 Keep Australia Beautiful Tidy Towns Awards The awards were presented on Saturday night in Beechworth Victoria with a total of six communities from across Australia vying for the 2025 title Launceston’s win comes on the back of its victory at the Tasmanian Keep Australia Beautiful Awards last November Hugh McKenzie and Sustainability Team Leader attended the awards presentation in Beechworth to collect the trophy on behalf of the city Matthew Garwood said scoring the 2025 national award was a huge honour for Launceston “I’m incredibly excited to see Launceston being recognised as the national winner of the 2025 Keep Australia Beautiful Tidy Town Awards,” Mayor Garwood said “The City of Launceston has been working hard in the environmental sustainability space for many years and this prestigious national award recognises the many council and community collaborations that have been occurring across Northern Tasmania aimed at protecting and celebrating our natural values “The awards recognised innovative projects like Spring Clean Rocherlea our circular economy initiatives and a number of community events We will continue to look at ways in which we can continue to innovate and maintain this standard.” Along with taking out the 2025 national award it will now fall to Launceston to host the 2026 Keep Australia Beautiful Awards and to welcome hundreds of delegates from across Australia to Northern Tasmania next year Information and Events for Local Councils throughout Australia Contact us: newsdesk@insidelocalgovernment.com.au Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueThe man pleaded guilty to breaching a family violence order on February 28 Picture by Paul ScamblerDefence lawyer Grant Tucker said the man had received a phone call and was told that his child was at the Launceston General Hospital with a woman protected by a family violence order He said the father was worried about the child who was suffering from bronchitis and influenza the man and the child's mother both went to the home of the man's father "They were still in breach but were caring for the child," Mr Tucker said The court heard the man woke up to the house on fire "The father's ex-partner set fire to a Harley Davidson next to the house which then caused the house to be engulfed in fire," Mr Tucker said He said there was no aggravating feature about the breach and submitted to magistrate Sharon Cure that an appropriate outcome would be no conviction but a good behaviour bond Ms Cure said she would not convict because of the set of circumstances "It was hardly surprising that he would attend the hospital," she said the house fire is still being investigated A Tasmania Police spokeswoman said in a statement: "The matter is currently under investigation by Northern Criminal Investigation Division no charges have been laid in relation to the fire." My journalism career has clicked over 34 years and encompasses four different spells at Tasmanian newspapers I am the Supreme and Magistrates Court reporter for The Examiner becoming the second victim of a serious two-vehicle collision in Launceston’s east earlier this month The man was a passenger in a Mazda sedan involved in a crash on Johnston Road at St Leonards on 17 April he was airlifted to the Royal Hobart Hospital in a serious condition Police have today confirmed the man has passed away from his injuries A 27-year-old woman who was driving the Mazda died at the scene despite emergency services performing CPR Tasmania Police confirmed the female driver of the Subaru involved escaped the collision without physical injury The cause of the collision has not yet been released with police preparing a report for the Coroner regarding both deaths Send your photos, videos and tip-offs to[email protected], use our News Tips form or call and leave us a message on 03 6124 2526 the man's defence lawyer told the Launceston Magistrates Court Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueMcDonalds South Launceston where man's prank gone wrong went down badly Picture Google MapsCharlie William Hay pleaded guilty to a count of unlawfully tamper or interfere with a motor vehicle on July 25 and a count of evade police two months later on September 26 Police prosecutor Kate Springer said the complainant parked his car at McDonalds about 8.35pm and went into the store "The defendant approached the vehicle and let the air out of the front and rear tyres," Ms Springer said A few weeks later he was intercepted by police and told them he let the air out as joke although he did not personally know the complainant Ms Springer said that about 12.55am on September 26 police saw Hay's car in Invermay "He took evasive action by increasing his speed and police disengaged," Ms Springer said She said Hay travelled through a red traffic light at the corner of Invermay Rd and the Mowbray link road Police found him in the driver's seat when they visited an address in Newnham He told them he thought he had been stupid and didn't know why he did it Defence lawyer Grant Tucker said that the letting down of tyres was a prank gone wrong "It was the car of a friend of a friend and the victim did not see the humour in it and reported it to police," Mr Tucker said He said that at the time of the evade Hay had a friend in the car who had experienced issues with the police and was unsure if there was a warrant [for his arrest] "He made the wrong decision to leave the scene and told police it was silly thing to do," Mr Tucker said Magistrate Simon Brown said letting the tyres down was a stupid thing to do He said that evading police was incredibly common and it was lucky no one was hurt by him going through a red light He told Hay the minimum fine was 10 penalty units [$2020] and the maximum was 100 penalty units and two years jail He fined him $2300 and disqualified him from driving for eight months Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueThis multi-million-dollar build became a point of controversy in 2024 when residents learnt that the local government planned to demolish the town's existing pool as part of the works Picture via the George Town CouncilAlthough the upcoming centre will be constructed in its place an outdoor pool won't feature in the redevelopment until its third stage George Town's council meetings have seen heated debate on numerous occasions this year as community members voice their opposition to the project. Tensions reached an all-time high in February when police escorted both Fiona Hills and Graeme Neilsen from the property Ms Hills later told The Examiner that she was concerned about the impending demolition of the George Town Swimming Pool as it would leave the community without an outdoor facility for at least a year "I would like to think that we could get [the council] to hold off a bit longer I feel that they're just rushing to spend the money because they think they're going to lose it," she said "They want to flatten everything that's there and start from scratch and Graeme Neilsen have fought the redevelopment Picture by Craig GeorgeAlong with Mr Neilsen she later filed an appeal against the building permit through the Tasmanian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (TASCAT) on March 11 delaying the council's plans by another month This application was ultimately dropped after TASCAT senior member Samuel Thompson dismissed four of the appeal's seven grounds for being "frivolous While he ordered the pair to find more specific evidence ahead of the May 23 hearing date, they have since abandoned their case, allowing George Town to begin the next phase of the project George Town mayor Greg Kieser. Picture by Craig GeorgeMayor Greg Kieser said the local government would now finalise the aquatic centre's construction contract in an effort to complete preliminary work before winter to get shovels in the ground "We've already seen this project's budget impacted by a two-year delay in the council having the funding confirmed and we want to make sure we are delivering every cent of value to the community," he said "I know there are many people both within the George Town community and in outlying areas who are looking forward to this facility being built so we can provide vital services such as learn to swim programs every single day of the year rather than being restricted by seasons and bad weather as the outdoor pool was." An aerial shot of the current George Town Swimming Pool. Picture by Craig GeorgeWhen the federal government allocated $15 million to the development in March 2022 the centre was planned to include indoor and outdoor pools All aspects of this plan have been retained in the three years since barring the outdoor pool which will be delivered in the project's third stage following construction of a children's splash pad and play area "But be very clear: the outdoor kiddies area and an external pool are unfunded We have to have success with the state or the federal government or private operators if we had to do it and raise funds through rates I think we'd have a very unhappy community." Picture via George Town CouncilDespite the pool being almost 40 years into its 50-year lifespan some residents maintain that there's no need to demolish the existing site Mr Neilsen would welcome a new aquatic centre for the town but believes it could be built alongside the current facilities "Mums and dads come down here and have a picnic through the summer They're not going to do that in an indoor facility for three or four hours," he told The Examiner They might end up with a multi-million dollar facility - which is wonderful - but it's got to be affordable for the average Joe to come in." 800 residents have signed a petition opposing the redevelopment. Picture by Phillip BiggsFiscal projections supplied to the council list the cost of maintaining the existing pool for the next five to ten years as exceeding $3 million compared to $4 million to build a new pool the George Town Swimming Pool was "approaching the end of its useful life" "To get the best efficiencies out of the site it basically makes sense to follow the orientation that the existing facility has," Cr Kieser said "We have received funding to build a covered aquatic health and wellness centre it's a probability you won't be able to draw down on the funding that's been provided a covered facility with the existing pool is just impossible Regional council reporter and videographer at The Examiner. Contact me at aaron.smith@austcommunitymedia.com.au for enquiries or send me a message on social media. Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueFacing VFL-side Sandringham led by a pair of goals from North Launceston duo Brad Cox-Goodyer and Brandon Leary Sandringham's Zac Greeves got the scoring underway toe-poking a ball in the goal-square through the big sticks The Devils were quick to reply through with Keegan Lowe kicking a classy 40 metre goal on the run They followed with a goal less than 60 seconds later who converted a tight snap to put the Devils in front Brandon Leary kicked two for the Devils against Sandringham Picture by Phillip BiggsThis time it was the Zebras who got a response Samuel Latreille burst out of a stoppage on centre-wing and kicked long to Oliver Moodie in a one-on-one The Devils and Zebras once again traded goals with Tasmania's Kai Cameron snapping a goal out of the ruck and Sandringham's Ned Maginness responded with a goal of his own after winning a high-contact free kick Scores were even at quarter-time with neither team playing with much fluency The second term was dominated by the Devils thanks largely to the efforts of Cox-Goodyer in the forward half Fletcher Hooker receives the ball for Tasmania Picture by Phillip BiggsHe kicked his first goal of the game after taking a juggling mark on the boundary His second of the day showed a lot more grit barreling in going for a loose ball and earning himself a high-contact free-kick Sandringham's lone goal for the quarter came from Flynn Gregor who reaped the benefits of disappointing Baxter Norton The Devils' pressure was a standout in their first-half performance not allowing the Zebras to have a lot of uncontested football Jack Dolliver scored a goal to close out the quarter for the Devils after he marked on the goal-line This goal gave Tasmania a 13-point lead at the main break Kingborough talent Mitch Brouwer opened the scoring in the third with 50m set-shot The Zebras were desperately in need of a reply and they got it from Robert Amendola who won a holding-the-ball free-kick and finished the set shot Devils players huddled together at three-quarter-time Picture by Ryan BentleyMuch like they did all day the Devils had an answer though This time time it came from Josh Wolfe who won a holding free-kick in the ruck and slotted the set-shot Sandringham's Charlie Richardson then got on the goal scorer's list a much deserved reward for his efforts throughout the day At this point the Devils had only allowed six scoring shots thanks largely to North Launceston defender Theo Ives who played as the spare for much of the day taking the Devils into three quarter-time as 29-point leaders Sandringham's Oliver Moody made it interesting at the start of the fourth kicking a goal from 50m to bring the margin back down to four goals The Zebras had much of the run of play in the fourth and were taking advantage of the Devils playing more conservatively But they couldn't put it on the scoreboard This made Baker Smith's first goal of the game all the more costly for the Zebras Smith would then go on to kick a second right on the full-time siren putting the finishing touch on the Devils' first senior win believed to be the first of its kind in Launceston All articles from our website & appThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxInteractive Crosswords, Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueIt's been nearly one year since Anna Petrovic opened Tan Solo in Brisbane Street but it's not what you think if you're a Star Wars fan In the setting of bright lemur-themed wallpaper and feather chandeliers automated spray-tanning booth that can be booked 24 hours a day Picture by Paul Scambler"A lot of mums bring their kids in it's just a nice private environment to have a minute to yourself." Mrs Petrovic was inspired to start the business by a similar concept in Torquay and said the 24-hour model was a huge point of difference and can then use their phone as the key to get inside "I like the fact you can come in 24-7 - I have so many nurses and doctors who come in at like 11 or 12 at night," she said "You can come in and have a tan and not have the embarrassment of getting naked in front of a stranger but mentally it would take me a couple of days to build myself to be able to stand in front of someone "I really like the fact that you can come and do it in private and it gets every single part of your body." Picture by Paul ScamblerWomen and men of all ages have used the service in its opening year Many of them have asked whether the business name is a reference to Harrison Ford's Star Wars character Han Solo. "No. It's just a name," Mrs Petrovic said. "[It references] tanning in private, tanning on your own. But I am a Star Wars baby." Mrs Petrovic said the business used only certified organic products, and that a tan could be completed in a matter of minutes. with a strong swing of more than 10 per cent to Labor Liberal's Bridget Archer failed to secure a third term Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueWith 54 of 58 centres reporting Ms Teesdale leads with more than 40 per cent of first preferences Ms Teesdale said she understood the privilege and responsibility of the role and promised to work "every single day to be worthy" of the people who had placed their trust in her "There are a lot of things I love about Labor but the main thing is that belief that nobodvoy should be left behind and that is what every single person in this room does every single day we support others," she said Nobody helped us in this campaign with the idea that they would try and get rich or get ahead themselves - it is always for other people." Follow The Examiner's latest updates on the federal election in Bass as it unfolds throughout the evening Labor's Jess Teesdale arriving at the election party after flipping the seat of Bass in the 2025 federal election Picture by Annika Rhoades'Epic Labor victory'The seat of Bass has fallen to Labor's Jess Teesdale who arrived at the election party in Launceston to many cheers and much applause Ms Teesdale said she didn't think anyone expected such a resounding win for Labor "We stand here tonight on the epic Labor victory across Australia and we're so grateful to have that happen here in Bass as well," she said "It's one thing to hear from people what they want but to see it through the votes and through those final polls Labor's Jess Teesdale and Liberal's Bridget Archer Pictures by Craig GeorgeThe new Bass MP said she didn't believe the loss for the Liberals was a reflection on Mrs Archer "I think this is a reflection on Peter Dutton no one was willing to take the risk on Dutton and this is the result of that," Ms Teesdale said Defeated Liberal member for Bass Bridget Archer gave an emotional speech at her election night party conceding defeat in the 2025 federal election A tearful Mrs Archer told her supporters that while the result was not what they hoped for there was "nothing else [they] could have done" "We have left absolutely nothing on the park here," she said "I could not have worked any harder in the last six weeks in the last six years or the last five weeks We have done absolutely everything that we can." Mrs Archer said she had called her opponent to concede and "wish her every success" going forward Results from the Australian Electoral Commission as of 8.45pm showed Labor's Jess Teesdale with 12,422 votes This showed an 11.08 swing toward the Labor party and a 9.59 swing away from the Liberals (swing refers to the extent of change in voter support from the previous election) People at Labor's election night party were in high spirits and could be heard cheering as results flashed across the television Labor's new Bass MP Jess Teesdale at the election night party on May 3 Picture by Annika RhoadesTeesdale pulled ahead earlyEarly results came in just under an hour after polls closed showing Labor Jess Teesdale ahead by 35 votes sitting on 236 votes to Liberal Bridget Archer's 201 This represented an 8.82 per cent swing towards Labor and a 7.80 swing away from the Liberal Party The Greens Charlene McLennan was sitting on 82 votes followed by One Nation's Jordan Potter on 41 counts Independent George Razay and Trumpet of Patriots Ray Broomhall were even with 30 votes each followed by Caroline Larner of the Citizens Party with 14 votes The atmosphere at the Greens' election night party in Launceston has been electric with volunteers cheering at early results which showed independent Peter George ahead of Labor's Julie Collins in Franklin Bass candidate Charlene McLennan was on 3,423 votes showing a 1.84 per cent swing towards the party Treasuer Jim Chalmers said the unpopularity of Coalition leader Peter Dutton in Tasmania could be a deciding factor in how the critical seats fall "The thing that is a little different about Tasmania is the difference between Scott Morrison's popularity and Peter Dutton public popularity is bigger and more pronounced in Tasmania than elsewhere," Mr Chalmers said much less can come on Peter Dutton and Scott Morrison so if you take Bass which has a well-known local member Bridget Archer 'you can like Bridget Archer but if you vote for her and it has been a very effective campaign there." The Greens' Bass candidate Charlene McLennan Picture by Joe ColbrookWill it be a hat-trick for Archer or will Labor reclaim Bass?The seat of Bass which encompasses Launceston and the North East has been held by Liberal MP Bridget Archer since 2019 Challenging the incumbent MP in the 2025 federal election is first-time Labor candidate Jess Teesdale Both major parties have made big promises during the course of the campaign The federal government said a re-elected Labor government would see University of Tasmania (UTAS) medical students be able to complete their entire degree from Launceston The future of a Northern Tasmanian disability centre set to receive a hydrotherapy pool was cemented qwith both parties making election promises Liberal MP Bridget Archer made a $3.74 million promise to St Giles' "Good House" project which was matched by the federal government's pledge of $3.73 million The Liberals also pledged $80 million to duplicate the Bass Highway Candidates from other parties include Charlene McLennan for The Greens Jordan Potter for Pauline Hanson's One Nation Ray Brooomhall for Trumpet of Patriots and Caroline Larner for the Australian Citizens Party The candidates had a few last words to say as they cast their votes in Launceston Mrs Archer voted at the YMCA Centre in Kings Meadows and said the five weeks of campaigning had been a "pretty long and intense process" but that it was a privilege to get to this point "I've been working really hard since the day I was elected," she said "I think I've done what I said I would do as the member for Bass and I've honored my commitment that I made to the people of Bass." Ms Teesdale voted at Norwood Primary School and said that Northern Tasmanians were faced with a clear choice: to keep building Australia's future under Labor or to bne "worse off" under the Coalition Stay tuned here for the latest updates as they come in The Examiner's health reporter, occasionally covering court and community stories. UTS journalism alumni. Contact me at annika.rhoades@austcommunitymedia.com.au ASSISTANT MINISTER TO THE PRIME MINISTER: I'm Patrick Gorman It is great to be here in Launceston with Jess Teesdale Jess has got a fantastic story as a teacher someone who's actually trying to really hand down skills and opportunity to the next generation And that's what she now wants to do as part of the Albanese Labor team Handing down skills and opportunity to the next generation.  and it's wonderful of her to invite us along to have a chat to all of you about some of the things that are going to be really important in the election People here in Launceston and across Tasmania are going to have a big decision in front of them That is the question in front of every voter at this election And what I've seen today - I was over the road visiting some of the really hard working public servants at Services Australia and the National Disability Insurance Agency - hearing about the work that they do making sure that Tasmanians here in Launceston and across the state can get the services that they need.  we’ve got some 8,000 pensioners relying on government payments We've got some 900 veterans relying on government support We’ve got 5000 people who rely upon healthcare cards and other services and we know that the people who deliver those services are at risk under a Dutton Liberal Government Dutton has said that he wants to cut 20 per cent of the public service those cuts aren't just going to be in Canberra and it's going to be regional communities like here in Launceston that feel it the worst we would see some 70 people lose their jobs and I don't need to tell you how much that will be felt as a ripple across the community Because you’re not just ripping away people's livelihoods you're also ripping away the people who deliver those essential services.  Now we want to invest in Medicare to make sure that people can see a GP when they need to so that nine out of ten GP appointments are bulk billed But we're also making sure that the back end of those systems the Medicare system that's been supporting Australia for some 41 years we're making sure the back end of those systems have the public servants to deliver those payments Dutton rips away some 70 public servants here in Launceston some 900 public servants across all of Tasmania that's going to mean longer wait times for parental leave payments We'll go back to the bad old days where we had some 41,000 Australian veterans waiting for some $6.5 billion of payments And we don't want to take our public services backwards We want to make sure that when people rock up across the road to Services Australia where they can get the aged pension they've worked so hard to earn We want to make sure they can get the support their family members relying upon the National Disability Insurance Scheme need Or in those really exciting years where you’ve got a little bub the first time going to apply for a paid parental leave payment we've taken the wait time on that from some 31 days - down to three days We can't let all of these gains go to waste with savage cuts and a civil war on the public service.  I back our public service all across Australia LABOR CANDIDATE FOR BASS: We've just heard from the Minister about what could potentially happen under Peter Dutton if you had 70 jobs lost in the public service They are the people that you play soccer with You will know someone who will potentially lose their job if Peter Dutton gets in That is something that we can't afford here in Tasmania Labor will not cut public service jobs in this manner Because we know that we need the efficiency in these services did you say you were you were over there speaking to people what's their reaction to this possibility?  GORMAN: What I do is visits to the public service I've got to be respectful of the fact that I can't go and do political discussions when I'm there But what I did hear was the benefits of our Government's investments in the public service That they are able to ensure that customers are getting the services they want What we had before was a lot of these bits of work were being done by contractors who were on very insecure employment arrangements they've been able to bring from contracting arrangements into permanent public sector jobs having a secure job makes a real difference So getting rid of some of those contracting arrangements getting rid of some of that shadow workforce has also saved the Commonwealth Government some $4 billion since we came to office Cuts and contracting out can often cost more than what we've done  Making sure we’ve got a lot of highly qualified highly skilled public servants delivering sometimes very complex support I spoke to some of the National Disability Insurance Agency staff who were there helping people I spoke to one gentleman who specifically helps families with children relying on the National Disability Insurance Scheme get their kids into the scheme for the first time it's great to see public servants so proud of their work It makes me proud to see public servants supporting their fellow Australians and that's why I just don't understand why Peter Dutton wants this civil war on Australia's public service Peter Dutton’s claims have been a bit well he hasn't highlighted exactly how many or necessarily where they'll come from How's Labor come to this number in Tasmania of 900 GORMAN: So what we've heard at different times from the Coalition is they've said used the number of 36,000 public service jobs Now they've said that they're going to reduce the public service by 36,000 - that is 20 per cent So if I go to 20 per cent of 350 public servants who work here in Launceston and never been contested by the Liberal Party or the National Party.  David Littleproud would be the Deputy Prime Minister He would sit on the Expenditure Review Committee of Cabinet He would be the chair of Cabinet and acting Prime Minister when Mr Dutton would be overseas if he was Prime Minister David Littleproud said not just that it was a priority to cut those 36,000 public servants but it would be the first thing that he would do before they've even held a Cabinet meeting they're swinging the axe on public servants here in Launceston Now that tells me everything about just how out of touch the Liberal Party and the National Party have become That they want to make it so that people have to wait longer to get a pension They will have to wait longer to get a paid parental leave payment They will have to wait longer to get Medicare support.  And I'm very happy to debate any member of the Liberal Party or the National Party about their cuts to the public service There's going to be communities across Australia that feel the impact.  Subscribe and stay up to date Connect with us PM&C acknowledges the traditional owners and custodians of country throughout Australia and acknowledges their continuing connection to land Launceston Tennis Centre, 20 February 2025 | Tennis Tasmania The much-anticipated return of the Launceston International tournament begins this Sunday Part of the ITF World Tennis Tour and Australian Pro Tour the 2025 Launceston International has a strong Australian contingent with four Australian women among the tournament’s top 10 accepted players – including 2020 Launceston international doubles Champion and former Hobart International player Jaimee Fourlis – and four Australian men also among the tournament’s top 10 accepted players 19 Australians will compete in the men’s qualifying draw Omar Jasika headlines a strong men’s field having won the Burnie International title twice including last year and he will be hoping to add another Tasmanian title to his record The tournament also welcomes former Grand Slam sensation,2015 Burnie International Champion and 2015 Launceston International Finalist Chung made history at the 2018 Australian Open by becoming the first Korean player to reach a Grand Slam semifinal 4 Alexander Zverev and six-time Australian Open champion Novak Djokovic before falling to Roger Federer in the semifinals That achievement saw him become Korea’s highest-ranked player at the time Night Sessions (when applicable): First matches from 5pm Qualifying round: Sunday 23 & Monday 24 February Qualifying & Main Draw matches: Tuesday 25 February Main Draw: Wednesday 26 – Thursday 27 February Player List – 10 Highest Ranked Women’s Players Accepted Player                                             WTA Ranking Kyoka Okamura (JPN)                          185 Ye Xin Ma (CHN)                                   244 Tessah Andrianjafitrimo (FRA)          284 Lizette Cabrera (AUS)                           294 Xiaodi You (CHN)                                  306 Jaimee Fourlis (AUS)                            319 Dayeon Back (KOR)                               322 Eri Shimizu (JPN)                                  349 Elena Micic (AUS)                                  367 Gabriella Da Silva Fick (AUS)              382 Player List – 10 Highest Ranked Men’s Players Accepted Player                                             ATP Ranking Omar Jasika (AUS)                                 248 Yu Hsiou Hsu (TPE)                               250 Naoki Nakagawa (JPN)                         371 Christian Langmo (USA)                      389 Moerani Bouzige (AUS)                        407 Dane Sweeny (AUS)                               412 Ajeet Rai (NZL)                                       486 Takuya Kumasaka (JPN)                       531 Shintaro Imai (JPN)                                564 Sanhui Shin (KOR)                                  667 Tickets are on sale now Premium four-hour food and beverage packages are also available for Quarterfinals (day session only) The Launceston International forms part of the Australian Tennis Pro Tour and is proudly supported by the Tasmanian Government through Events Tasmania The event is proudly supported by the City of Launceston BUY TICKETS Cherished step-daughter of Helen and Derryn Loving granddaughter of Cheryl and Bernard (dec.) Treasured aunt to all of her nieces and nephews A Launceston business owner is offering a $5,000 reward after one of his pet deer was shot and beheaded on his property near Prospect Vale owner of Richardson’s Harley-Davidson has appealed to the public after what he described as a “cruel slaughter” “We’re really disturbed to share that one of our tame pet deer has been illegally killed and beheaded on our property near the Bass Highway close to our highway signs in the valley,” Hrycyszyn said “This wasn’t a wild animal or a trophy deer – it was a tame and gentle animal that could be hand fed that lived peacefully on our land and was no challenge to anyone.” Hrycyszyn is urging anyone with information about the slaughter to come forward “We’re offering a $5,000 cash reward for any information that helps us correctly identify the person or people responsible,” he said “We’re absolutely devastated and would appreciate any help in getting to the bottom of this.” Anyone with information can call Richardson’s Harley-Davidson or email [email protected] Send your photos, videos and tip-offs to[email protected], use our News Tips form or call and leave us a message on 03 6124 2526 but in truth there's been a classic playing there for the past 55 years Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueIn theatre terms Neil Pitt's Menswear has been a smash hit at the box office It assembled an all-star cast that has included many members of the Pitt family and has connected deeply with generations of Launcestonians Paul ScamblerThe business has announced plans to move on from its Brisbane Street home in the next few months as it undertakes a "significant downsizing" In some ways the move is a return to the store's roots Neil Pitt's began in a much smaller Charles Street tenancy in 1949 before its three owners - all brothers - set about transforming Majestic Theatre into an emporium-style department store "My dad [Don] and both my uncles Neil and Brian were really ambitious," store manager Andrew Pitt said did a state-of-the-art fit-out which apparently for Launceston "But now it's 55 years down the track and the world's changed and nothing here has So basically what we're finding is the space we now have in this building is way beyond what we need but the size of the building undermines the business "So we think if we downsize we can probably still be pretty busy and [stay] true to our core values - exceptional personal service and good quality menswear at a reasonable price." Neil Pitt's will reopen next door in a familiar Brisbane Street Arcade tenancy that has previously housed sister businesses including the House of St Clair Mr Pitt hopes to unveil the new-look store in early September "[We'll be] continuing with some of our best lines now introducing some new ones and being true to our values and our legacy." Neil Pitt's will move into the Brisbane Street Arcade over winter Pictures by Hamish GealeThe next few months will provide something of a farewell tour for several aspects of the business One is the famous Neil Pitt's cafe which has a unique atmosphere for Launceston and is believed to be the oldest in the city "We think this is probably the last of the old-school store cafes from the '70s in Tasmania and it must be one of the last nationally," Mr Pitt said whereas this one was a cafe and maybe that's what's meant that this one's lasted longer Picture by Phillip Biggs"We'd like to encourage people to come in and experience the last of those cafes over the next few months before we close." Family has been the centrepiece of Neil Pitt's The three brothers all spent decades in the business, and Don Pitt, who joined the business aged 16, only retired last year at the age of 91. Don's son Andrew has been with the business full-time for 16 years, and Neil's daughter Di has fronted the cafe for a similar time. Don Pitt in the store in 2019. Picture by Paul ScamblerThen there's the countless number of Tasmanian families who have their own history with the business. "When you think about the 76 years of interaction the community's had with this business, often people come in at significant moments in their life," Mr Pitt said. "First suit for a ball, wedding, job interview, job, later on in life funerals and children's weddings ... lots of pivotal moments in people's lives. "There [are stories] stuff coming out about how people met their future partners here, or one we get a lot is people initially have come in here with their grandparents and had a spider or a milkshake. Neil Pitt's is expected to remain in its current location until about July. Police and emergency services are at the scene of a serious incident in St Johns Street Police were called to the scene about 10.05am following reports of an armed man threatening members of the public The person of interest and a police officer have been injured during the incident There is no ongoing threat to the wider community The person of interest has suffered serious injuries and is being treated at the scene St Johns Street between William and Cimitiere Streets and Cimitiere Streets between Charles and St Johns Streets are currently closed and people should avoid the area More information will be provided proactively when available Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueSigns have been erected on the front doors advertising the impending arrival of a new function centre The posters are emblazoned with a winged Tasmanian tiger the venue's new name - York St Social - and the tagline "where Launnie celebrates" A new celebration venue called York St Social is set to emerge from the former Bakers Lane site Pictures by Craig GeorgeThe business has also begun establishing an online presence including on Instagram where it already has 45 followers The York St Social website says: "Launnie's new function and event venue is coming soon special events - your celebration HQ is nearly here Bakers Lane ran for about 10 years and became one of the city's most frequented nightlife locations before closing in May 2024 Picture by Craig GeorgeThe building at 81 York Street was listed for lease one month later It attracted solid interest upon hitting the market - including from buyers interested in transforming the site into a cafe - but wasn't officially leased until February 20. artist Clarice Beckett contracted pneumonia after painting a seascape of Beaumaris during a winter storm - she was sent to the hospital and died four days later Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueIn the years following due to bushfires and her father throwing away what he thought were incomplete works Beckett's sister donated her remaining works to the National Gallery gallerist Rosalind Hollinrake came across Beckett's work and reestablished her legacy - Beckett has since been recognised as one of Australia's most important artists Now, Queen Victoria Museum & Art Gallery[QVMAG] will host Beckett's work in the Clarice Beckett: Paintings from the National Collection exhibit National Gallery of Australia Assistant Curator Deirdre Cannon said Beckett's works are completely unique and offer people the chance to see the world through a different lens "Her works encapsulate the unique way she perceived the everyday beauty in the world around her," she said "While she was active in the 1920s and 30s her style really anticipated abstract painting movements that would take another three decades to take hold." City of Launceston Mayor Matthew Garwood urged people to visit the limited-time exhibit "Launceston is the fifth stop on the national tour of the beautiful works and it's your only chance to see them in Tasmania," Cr Garwood said "The exhibition is here for a strictly limited six-week season so I invite everyone to come to the Art Gallery to discover the art and story of Clarice Beckett." Beckett was a carer for her ailing parents; she would often paint in the early morning and evening before and after completing her duties for the day She worked within the confines of an extremely conservative society resistant to accepting new developments in art and that saw women who paint as hobbyists Becket was able to turn her passion into a career and develop work with themes and styles that would take another three decades for mainstream art to adopt QVMAG Director Shane Fitzgerald said her work matched with her story makes the exhibition worth seeing it's a very female story about being hidden and remaining hidden for her lifetime We are delighted to share her rediscovered and restored work with the community." Image supplied.Beckett was born in regional Victoria in 1897 She lived and worked in Melbourne in the 1920s and 30s "She cultivated a style of modern painting that was completely unique for her time," she said Beckett chose to pursue art at a time when it was very difficult for women to sustain careers in the industry Instead of painting inside the controlled environment of the studio in the scenery and atmosphere she was depicting and depictions of suburban areas on the brink of modernity in the early morning and evening "A Clarice Beckett painting is almost immediately recognisable for it's sense of atmosphere tree or boar with a minimum of brush strokes and detail is unparalleled in Australian art of the 1920 and 30s and her works subtly depict the world on the cusp of modernisation by combining elements of nature and technical innovation Cannon said Beckett's approach creates a particular mood unlike any other artwork "She often painted in the early morning and evening and captured these transient times of the day with delicate colour shifts and hazy imagery that convey a sense of timelessness and contemplation," she said Beckett faced criticism for her modern outlook an outlook that went on to separate her from all other artists of her generation "Beckett's commitment to painting her own unique view of the world has ultimately resulted in her being recognised as one of Australia's most important artists," Cannon said QVMAG will host two events at the Royal Park Gallery taking visitors behind the scenes of Beckett's work Photo: Mick Tsikas/AAP PHOTOSThe coalition's election post-mortem has begun after a stinging repudiation from voters left the Liberal Party leaderless and contemplating its worst ever result at a federal election Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinuePeter Dutton suffered the ignominy of becoming the first opposition leader to lose his seat with his electorate of Dickson falling to Labor the search now begins for Mr Dutton's replacement to fill the leadership vacuum deputy Liberal leader Sussan Ley and coalition frontbenchers Dan Tehan and Andrew Hastie are considered front runners for the party's top job The coalition was ahead in the polls going into 2025 before voters dramatically swung back to Labor with questions being asked about what the party needs to do to recapture support Peter Dutton has lost his seat in Brisbane and now must contemplate life outside of politics (Mick Tsikas/AAP PHOTOS)With a primary vote of just 31.8 per cent it's the lowest total the party has received at an election in its history who's likely to lose his Victorian seat of Menzies says the coalition needs to re-examine its policy offerings to city voters with many traditional blue-ribbon seats now being held by independents "It was clear that our party has an issue in urban Australia Most people live in cities," he told ABC's Insiders program on Sunday "We need to really dig deep and think about who we are and who we fight for and who makes up Australia." South Australian Liberal senator Alex Antic was scathing of the platform the party put to voters "It simply didn't have policy that resonated .. for the first 12 months you'll get something free," he told Sky News we've sent the troops into battle without ammunition." (Lukas Coch/AAP PHOTOS)With Labor's landslide win the coalition was wiped out of seats entirely in Tasmania and Adelaide while also failing to win back blue-ribbon seats in Melbourne and Sydney Nationals Leader David Littleproud said the parliament would be poorer without Mr Dutton in its ranks He said the coalition needed to closely examine where it went wrong "It's just time for us to reflect as a coalition and to come back and to dust ourselves off You've got to learn the lessons of this and move on," he told Sky News The coalition suffered a negative 3.1 per cent swing on Saturday night FIND YOUR ONE NATION CANDIDATE, LOCAL POLLING BOOTHS AND HOW-TO-VOTE CARD HERE. We are excited to invite you to a meet-and-greet event with Senator Pauline Hanson and Lee Hanson at the Launceston Grand Chancellor on Thursday This is a great opportunity to engage directly with Pauline and the One Nation House of Representatives candidates You will hear about One Nation’s vision for Tasmania and have the chance to ask questions on key issues affecting the state We want to listen to your concerns and discuss how One Nation can support Tasmania in the future and be part of shaping the future of Tasmania The One Nation political party was launched on the 11th April 1997 at Ipswich by its founder 2/6-12 Boronia Rd Brisbane Airport QLD 4008 Launceston’s beloved ‘Bike Centre’ will reopen to the public after a major $3.8 million redevelopment with online bookings available from today ahead of the Easter break officially known as the Road Safety Centre was forced to close in 2019 due to serious structural issues that were discovered to be far more extensive than initially anticipated City of Launceston Mayor Matthew Garwood acknowledged the project had taken longer than planned “Our top priority had to be the long-term safety of the site and everyone who uses it,” Garwood said “We’re incredibly grateful to the Launceston community for your patience and understanding which has allowed us to deliver a safe and significantly improved facility.” housed in a former water reservoir dating back to 1894 was transformed into a mini road safety village in 1980 by the Launceston Apex Club and the Council The extensive redevelopment was completed in four stages The Federal Government contributed $1 million to the project under the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program Tasmanian Labor Senator Helen Polley welcomed the completion of the project “Thousands of children across Northern Tasmania can now use the new and updated Bike Centre once again to have fun learn about road safety and enjoy time with their friends,” Polley said The renovated Centre features a complete mini road network with Launceston street names weatherproof shelters with free BBQ facilities and a new amenities block with accessible toilets A new online booking system and PIN code access to the Centre is in use initially estimated at $1.7 million in 2019 ultimately cost $3.8 million due to cost escalation and the discovery of additional structural issues during renovations Send your photos, videos and tip-offs to[email protected], use our News Tips form or call and leave us a message on 03 6124 2526 We make sure that every student has a hands-on education that’s filled with adventure Learn how you can connect with new people through events which delivers impact for and from Tasmania We pride ourselves on forming deep connections Tasmania is an island of creative and curious minds you’ll become part of a welcoming and collaborative community 12 February marked the Launch of the Launceston Institute industry and the community to celebrate what the Institute’s collaborative research network will enable one of the University’s newest facilities over 150 attendees gathered for the exciting milestone hosted by Pro Vice-Chancellor (Launceston) Professor Natalie Brown The Launceston Institute will maximise opportunities to support industry linked research to benefit Northern Tasmania driving social and economic impact across the region It will optimise networks between research capabilities at the University design and progress impactful collaboration A community of practice will evolve for researchers and HDR students to develop ongoing relationships with local leaders The launch was supported by guest speaker James McKee CEO of Regional Development Australia (RDA) in Tasmania “Let’s bring knowledge to life What better way to turbo charge this ambition than through an outward facing Launceston Institute dedicated to this cause” Mr McKee said Leading researchers shared how their work is having incredible local impacts Associate Professor Lyn Goldberg spoke about her work with Wicking Dementia Research Education Centre alongside Aboriginal communities Associate Head of Research at the Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture was excited about how Launceston Institute would bring industry leaders in food and nutrition to the University to work through problems together “We want them to know we are right here Or we’ll come to you!” Professor Shellie said Attendees then had the opportunity for networking with over 50 researchers sharing their focus areas and connecting with leaders from prominent local industry sectors; business To find out more about upcoming activities or get involved in the Launceston Institute, visit www.utas.edu.au/launceston-institute T: +61 3 6226 6200 View all contact options The University of Tasmania uses cookies to deliver content that’s relevant to you. We rely on cookies to remember your preferences, provide personalised content, and to analyse our website traffic. You consent to our cookies if you click “Accept”. Please refer to our privacy policy for more information Community leaders have united behind a campaign to bring digital radio services to Northern Tasmania Advocates claim the region has been left behind despite the technology being available in Hobart since 2018 The ABC and the Community Broadcasting Association of Australia launched collaborative tests of DAB+ Digital Radio technology across the Launceston CBD in 2023, as revealed by Pulse at the time Launceston community radio stations City Park Radio Way FM and Print Radio Tasmania have now joined forces to get an administrative ‘tick of approval’ from the federal communications regulator so that they can go live with the technology permanently Local commercial radio stations Chilli FM and LAFM have not expressed their interest in launching digital services which means the not-for-profit community stations have to take their fight to Canberra alone “Digital radio receivers are standard in over 80% of all new cars sold in Australia,” said City Park Radio Public Officer Chris Ball “Next year marks our 40th anniversary of community broadcasting here in Launceston and wouldn’t it be great to give the gift of DAB radio to the north of the state on our 40th anniversary.” The digital radio service would be transmitted from high atop Mt Barrow providing coverage similar to existing commercial and ABC FM radio services – particularly around the north-east The stations say the increased in-car coverage as a result compared to their analog FM services transmitted from inner-city towers at Trevallyn and West Launceston would help widen their appeal in a modern era Federal funding for shared transmission facilities has already been allocated through the community radio industry body while the stations themselves say their side of the deal is ready to go “All we need to do is get ACMA to tick a box and say All we’ve got to do is flick a switch and it’s there.” Liberal incumbent Bridget Archer and Labor candidate Jess Teesdale have now both committed to advocating for digital radio if elected at this weekend’s election “I will … work to ensure that ACMA urgently takes the regulatory steps necessary to enable permanent free-to-air digital radio services,” said Teesdale The ABC and SBS have been operating permanent low-power DAB+ transmissions in the Launceston CBD since late 2024 which would be expanded to cover the broader northern region along with the community radio stations Send your photos, videos and tip-offs to[email protected], use our News Tips form or call and leave us a message on 03 6124 2526 All articles from our website & appThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxInteractive Crosswords, Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinuePaterson Street on a rainy day. File picture by Phillip BiggsThe Bureau of Meteorology issued the severe thunderstorm warning for parts of the North East and Central North forecast districts at 5.10pm on Monday, March 10. This said damaging winds, large hailstones and heavy rainfall that may lead to flash flooding were likely to happen that night. The area likely to be impacted by storms. Picture by the Bureau of MeteorologyThe main settlement likely to be impacted by the severe weather was Launceston, according to the bureau, although the warning area stretches from Carrick to Mount Barrow. The State Emergency Service advises that people should: Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueThe 17-year-old is one of six Apple Isle products in the 15-player outfit Heading to Darwin for an eight-day development camp, it will be Arrowsmith's first time representing his country, previously named in a squad that didn't play or train. "Being in a squad with a good bunch of blokes it's unreal to think that it's a great opportunity Kobe Arrowsmith looks to smack the ball while representing Tasmania Picture by Matt Roberts/Getty Images"It's great to see that there are so many Tasmanians in the squad "It's pretty unreal that six out of the 15 that are named are Tassie players so we'll be going a long way in the future Tasmania is the highest-represented state in the squad featuring four South Australians and Victorians and a lone Queensland player the camp features three Twenty20 matches against the Northern Territory Cricket Academy as well as training and recovery sessions and cultural activities Arrowsmith was selected in the squad following his showing at the national inclusion championships where he scored 111 runs at an average of 27.75 He also had an impressive season with South Launceston scoring half-centuries in both second and third grade making 91 off 106 balls against Launceston in the latter Arrowsmith is also the captain of Tasmania's inclusion touch football team Picture by Craig George"I had a pretty good year I just want to try and keep that form rolling onto the future carnivals and the one that's coming up with the Australian stuff," he said "Then I'd love to continue to improve with South Launceston as well." Arrowsmith is proving to be an impressive multi-sport talent, named as captain of the Tasmanian inclusion touch football team for May's national championships and having played in both of Tasmania's premiership-winning inclusion football teams As a sports-mad fan who loves to remain challenged, sports journalism always seemed the path for me and it's allowed me to do things I never thought possible. A keen racquet sports player, I'm experienced in that field, allowing me to do my job at a strong standard. All articles from our website & appThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxInteractive Crosswords, Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueFederal health minister Mark Butler said from 2026 and under a re-elected Labor government the university would offer 20 new spots for medical students in Launceston per year Labor's Bass candidate Jess Teesdale and federal health minister Mark Butler at First Point Health Care in Launceston Picture by Craig GeorgeMr Butler said it posed a huge imposition on students to move away for their education which could have far-reaching impacts for the GP landscape in the state's north it runs the risk that we'll lose that person to the south of Tasmania or to another state where they start to build a life," he said "It won't only mean more doctors in Tasmania it will mean more doctors here in the North." Fifth-year UTAS medical student Peta Antypas said she was lucky enough to take part in a rural pilot program that allowed her to remain at home in Launceston for the first few years "I was supported financially by being able to stay at home with my family and also emotionally during what is quite a challenging degree," she said Medical students from North or North West Tasmania have had to undertake the initial three years of their UTAS degree in Hobart or attend an interstate university her student colleagues who couldn't stay in Launceston had to work part-time jobs on top of what was already a demanding and rigorous degree University of Tasmania (UTAS) medical student Peta Antypas at the Labor announcement on April 21 Picture by Craig GeorgeShe said being able to study in and connect with the Launceston community made her realise it was where she wanted to remain going forward in her career "I think this program will be beneficial for a lot of reasons for mental health and for retaining doctors," Ms Antypas said "Tasmania is such an underserviced and under-resourced area historically and we really struggle to retain junior doctors and this could actually make a massive difference into the future." fellow UTAS medical students Brieanna Hill and Isabella Curran moved to Hobart to complete the first few years of medical training "It was a struggle financially for my family - even with the help of Centrelink and things like that I had to work during my summers to have enough money to get me through," Ms Hill said the university will convert non-medical Commonwealth-supported places (CSP) into medical ones CSPs are places at universities partially subsidised by the Australian Government meaning eligible students don't have to pay the full cost of tuition The three students and Mr Butler joined Labor's Bass candidate Jess Teesdale to make the announcement in Launceston on Monday They were also joined by general practitioner Dr Prashanth Reddy and Tasmanian School of Medicine head Professor Ruth Kearon at Newstead's First Point Health Care Professor Kearon said the policy would remove barriers to higher education for students in Northern Tasmania "We are very excited about being able to establish an end-to-end medical training program here in Launceston," she said "This really puts us in a position where we can become a national leader in regional health professional education." The health minister said this built upon the government's plan to fund the largest GP training program in Australian history which will see 2000 new GP trainees a year by 2028 Councillors and employees of the City of Launceston are deeply saddened by the loss of our former Alderman Ian Routley who served from 1992-2005 Ian was known for his commitment to heritage protection in the City Ian Routley served the community by treating issues on merit and pursued issues promising a benefit for future generations Our prayers thoughts and deepest condolences go out to Ian's family Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueAssociation president Peter Gutwein revealed the possibility of expanding to eight teams to The Examiner last week as his board explores ways to improve the fledgling top-tier product The former Tasmanian premier also questioned the fitness of some clubs as Deloraine Scottsdale and South Launceston find themselves up against former State League sides Launceston and North Launceston This suggestion has been rubbished by Longford president Rob Moore NTFA premier league clubs at their media launch earlier this year Picture by Phillip Biggs"To say we would be more competitive if we were fitter is utter nonsense," Moore said "North Launceston have been the best team in the state for the past few years and they have a proven system that works and they are at the peak of their powers "It is up to us to rise up to their standard as we did when South Launceston came back to the NTFA and dominated for five years and jumping at shadows after three rounds is not the way we should react." Moore believes the Tigers have "never been fitter", pointing to the appointment of former North Launceston player and qualified exercise scientist Arion Richter-Salter. Richter-Salter is the Tigers' assistant coach physio and strength and conditioning coach and has returned to Tasmanian football after playing in Victoria Longford got a first-hand look at North Launceston's dominance in the opening round they've bounced back with wins over Scottsdale and Deloraine to sit third on the table These results come having fielded 13 debutants so far this season emphasising the club's youth policy as they aim to shore up their future Picture by Phillip Biggs"We know what we signed up for," Moore said "We have been ambitious and pushed ourselves out of our comfort zone but we must give this new competition time to find its feet and to give it the best chance of being the premier competition in our region." It is the premier league clubs' understanding that the competition will remain at six teams for three seasons That is one of several reasons North Launceston president Adrian Hall has described a potential expansion to eight teams as "an unmitigated disaster" "If the NTFA cannot properly support six teams one wonders how they could support eight in the premier league - it does nothing except dilute the talent pool," Hall said "It may create some games with a more even scoreline but there is an inherent artificiality "It may be more even but it is contrary to the stated desire to increase competitiveness not reduce talent and focus in order to create evenness." which is being shown given North Launceston's three-round percentage of 440 "We cannot be asked to sell the narrative of patience and time if the NTFA want to change the structure after three rounds," he said "Both AFL Tasmania and the NTFA need to renew their commitment to the structure and assist the current clubs .. if we want teams to more easily find the goalposts it would help if the NTFA stopped moving them." With plenty of external commentary surrounding North Launceston's senior dominance Hall encouraged the doubters to look across all four divisions which are both making their returns this season are both winless three games into the season This is a sentiment shared by both South Launceston president Stephen Hibbs and Deloraine's Anthony Clayton "They are not looking past senior men's scores," Hibbs said "If we were to judge how each club is travelling by how their four teams are travelling we all agreed that every club has its challenges - as did the competition - and to date "We are still the only ones doing the heavy lifting to promote our competition in a positive manner "The key component we all wanted - transparency - seems to still be lacking." Clayton is pleased with how both of the Kangaroos' senior sides have started the season with the women sitting atop the ladder undefeated and their men in fourth He admitted some people didn't think they should have gone down this path but now that they are there the club is full of enthusiasm and all in on the future This has resulted in several conversations on strengthening the club's junior program to remain a part of the premier league going forward The City of Launceston is set to revamp its council committee system with elected members voting to disband several existing committees in preparation for a more streamlined approach to local governance marks what Mayor Matthew Garwood describes as “a natural point of transition and opportunity” for the northern Tasmanian city “This is about building on the strong foundations of our past committees and ensuring the next iteration is fit-for-purpose and focused on delivering great outcomes for our community,” Mayor Garwood said The council will now work to reshape committee structures to better align with evolving priorities and strategic objectives Councillor Alan Harris said the review was necessary to ensure committees remained relevant and effective it’s important we remain agile and review the way we’re doing things to best meet our strategic objectives,” Harris said “Over time some of our committees have gained relevance and others have become less relevant and reached the end of their lifespan.” The realignment comes as part of a broader commitment to modernise council operations and improve community engagement Harris suggested that while some committees would be discontinued their focus areas might be reborn in new forms “I think in the future we’ll see the work of past committees reborn into new strategic efforts sister city relations or urban greening,” he said Councillor Tim Walker said the changes would strengthen Launceston’s governance framework “We will have a more robust system that reflects and aligns with our strategic planning with more relevancy and vigour than perhaps we’ve seen in the past,” Walker said Send your photos, videos and tip-offs to[email protected], use our News Tips form or call and leave us a message on 03 6124 2526 Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend the funeral service for Montana Louise Knowles to be held at the Franklin Grove Centre The well-loved mid-century modern abode at 42 Heather Street in South Launceston is selling with a price guide between $499,000 and $549,000. The average median house price for the area is $530,000, according to the Domain December 2024 House Price Report, released in January 2025. The three-bedroom, two property was built by the original owner, who was a builder. . He lived in the home with his wife and children. He died about 20 years ago. Selling agent, Harrison Agents Launceston’s Jesse Denholm listed the home on behalf of the owner’s wife. However, after she sadly also passed away, he is now selling the property on behalf of their children. Waterfront home in Tasmania with historic past up for grabs Trio of private islands for sale in Tasmania Abandoned house in Tasmania’s rugged west listed for $150,000 There are doorhandles that I’ve never seen,” he told Domain “Underneath the floorboards the timber boards are like a spiderweb.” He said the floorboard design had been created using estimated 5cm wide planks of timber – a truly painstaking Another unusual feature of the home is the door between the kitchen and dining room The property, which is split across two levels, boasts more than 200sqm of space upstairs, “a rarity for homes of this era”, according to the listing. “From the rear of the property, you’ll enjoy exceptional views over South Launceston and towards the city. Ideally located just a short walk to the Door of Hope and Pycsam complex, and only minutes from the Launceston General Hospital and CBD,” the listing reads. All three bedrooms are on the top level, along with one of two bathrooms. On the ground level, there is a garage with nearly 90sqm of additional space, including an additional bathroom. Denholm described the home as “cosmetically very tired”. “It’s pretty much untouched,” he said, adding the fixer-upper would be work. However, the amount of work the home needed hasn’t deterred everyone. More than 17,000 people have viewed the listing with scores adding it to their favourites list. He said the interest in the Heather Street property compared to his other listings, was “two or three times more”. Listings with Harrison Agents Launceston are by appointment only. 1 Bath1 ParkingView listing 36 Eardley Street, South Launceston TAS 72494 Beds1 Bath1 ParkingView listing 44 Heather Street, South Launceston TAS 72493 Beds1 Bath1 ParkingView listing The information on this website is intended to be of a general nature only and doesn't consider your objectives, financial situation or needs. where we are privileged to live and operate