Joe remembers Bridgewater Bridge opening one year on
One year on from the opening of Tasmania’s new Bridgewater Bridge, Brighton Community News caught up with Dromedary resident Joe Young — the man entrusted with the important task of driving the very first vehicle across the landmark crossing.
Born in 1951, Joe grew up between Broadmarsh and Austins Ferry as one of 13 children. After leaving school in 1968, he began work with the Postmaster-General’s Department (PMG) as a technician. The PMG was Australia’s national postal and telecommunications provider before being split into Australia Post and Telecom Australia (later Telstra) in 1975. Joe married his wife
Helen in 1975 and together they built their family home, “Ruapuna”, in Dromedary, where they still live today. They raised three daughters — Emma-Leah, Simone and Melanie.
A passionate collector and restorer of veteran vehicles and old farm machinery, Joe is well known for his love of preserving local history. Among his prized possessions is a rare 1910 Star motorcar, built in Wolverhampton in the United Kingdom.
It was this remarkable vehicle that carried Mrs Margaret McMaster and Mrs Barbara Jones across the newly opened Bridgewater Bridge on 1 June 2025. Both women, now in their nineties, were given the honour of being the first official passengers to cross the new 1.2-kilometre bridge after unveiling a commemorative plaque. Fittingly, both had also attended the opening of the previous Bridgewater Bridge back in 1946.
Joe remembers the day vividly — particularly the pressure of making sure everything went smoothly. “It was an absolutely freezing day,” Joe recalled. “I had unloaded the car at the old St Mary’s Church in
Big plans for Bridgewater West
A major housing boost for Brighton was announced recently, with Mayor Leigh Gray joined by federal and state representatives to reveal plans to unlock around 800 new homes in the Bridgewater West precinct.
Standing alongside Federal Housing Minister Clare O’Neil, Rebecca White MP, Tasmanian Infrastructure Minister Kerry Vincent and Senator Richard Dowling, Mayor Gray said the project represented a major opportunity for the growing municipality.
Bridgewater at 7.30am and the carburettor had frozen up. I had to run it for 20 minutes to warm it up, but I managed to get the car onto the bridge by 8am.”
“It was still pretty much dark at that stage. Laura from State Growth was there to meet me and I just said, ‘I didn’t let you down!’”
Joe said he stayed close to the vehicle throughout the morning, carefully preparing the veteran car for the historic moment. “I was invited to sit with the dignitaries, but I just wanted to stay with the car,” he said. “I was very worried about the cold for the ladies,
The proposed development would focus strongly on helping first home buyers enter the property market, while also delivering vital infrastructure to support future growth in the area.
Mayor Gray described the project as a “generational opportunity” for Brighton and Bridgewater, made possible by the new Bridgewater Bridge and surrounding road upgrades.
The vision for the precinct includes a mix of housing types, public open space,
but they didn’t want to wear headscarves because they’d had their hair done for the occasion.”
As the ribbon-cutting approached, Joe admits he was holding his breath. “I lifted the bonnet, turned the fuel on and cranked the handle a quarter turn — thank goodness she started,” he laughed. “After that, we were ready to go.”
Driving the 115-year-old vehicle proved no easy feat. “It was very cramped because the car really only seats two people, so I couldn’t actually sit down,” Joe said. “I was literally driving standing up.” Within minutes, the trio had
improved transport connections and future commercial opportunities, all designed for a connected and liveable community. Council says the project could help meet growing housing demand while giving more Tasmanians the chance to own a home close to jobs, schools and services.
The announcement follows ongoing work by Brighton Council and other levels of government to plan future growth across the municipality.
crossed into history as the first official passengers over Tasmania’s newest bridge.
Joe says he feels incredibly proud to have played a role in such a significant event for the local community and Tasmania as a whole. Today, a framed memento commemorating Joe’s involvement in the bridge opening is proudly on display at Brighton Council Offices in Old Beach, where residents can view it over the coming months.
For Joe, the experience was more than just a drive — it was a once-in-a-lifetime moment connecting the region’s past, present and future.
L-R: The Hon. Rebecca White MP, Alex Woodward, Brian White, James Dryburgh (Brighton Council), The Hon. Clare O’Neil MP, Mayor Leigh Gray, The Hon. Kerry Vincent MP
Joe with the commemorative frame
The opening of the new Bridgewater Bridge, 1 June 2025
Published by the Brighton Council. It is distributed to households and businesses throughout the municipality. Circulation: In excess of 9,000.
The 2026 ANZAC Day Commemorative Service at Remembrance Park was a moving tribute to those who have served and sacrificed for our country. The service was led by Brighton Mayor Leigh Gray, with the Ode of Remembrance delivered by Councillor Phil Owen. Also in attendance were Brian Mitchell MP, Councillors Peter Geard and John McMaster, along with members of the local community.
Special thanks go to the 65 Army Cadet Unit – Bridgewater for providing a highly professional catafalque party, Reverend Rod Curtain for leading the Lord’s Prayer, and Mrs Shirley Williams from Speaking Made Easy, who
shared the inspiring story of the talented and dedicated Curtain sisters from Elderslie who served as nurses during World War I.
Council also extends its sincere thanks to local school groups who laid wreaths during the service, including students from Brighton Primary School, who read a poem, and Brighton High School students, who carried out the important role of flag raising. Thank you to the emergency service personnel and community members who laid wreaths in remembrance, as well as the Rotary Club of Brighton for providing a post-service sausage sizzle, and Geard 4 Light & Sound for the excellent sound production. Lest We Forget.
Community feedback shapes cat plan
The Tasmanian Government recently completed public consultation on its Cat Management in Tasmania Discussion Paper. The paper sought community feedback on current cat laws, key challenges and future policy options for managing domestic, stray and feral cats.
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All correspondence should be addressed to the Chief Executive Officer, Brighton Council, 1 Tivoli Road, Old Beach 7017.
Led by the Department of Natural Resources and Environment Tasmania (NRE Tas), the consultation explored issues including microchipping, desexing, cat containment, stray cat feeding and feral cat management, with community responses set to help inform the state’s next Tasmanian Cat Management Plan.
Brighton Council provides FREE monthly immunisation clinics at the Brighton from 2–3pm on these dates:
Tuesday 11 August
Tuesday 8 September
Please
Mrs Shirley Williams from Speaking Made Easy delivering her speech
Powering up Pontville
Throughout April, energy upgrades were completed at the Pontville Regional Sports Centre, marking an important step towards a cleaner, more efficient future for this much-loved community facility.
The works included the installation of a 65kW rooftop solar system, a 48kWh battery, and the electrification of the hot water system. As a result, the centre is now far less reliant on gas and grid electricity, helping to lower operating costs, cut carbon emissions, and improve energy resilience.
Together, these upgrades demonstrate how practical, readily available technologies can be used to improve the performance of community buildings, while also showing what’s possible for households and businesses who are looking to cut costs and emissions.
These improvements were made possible thanks to funding from the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water’s Community Energy Upgrade Fund, supporting councils to invest in cleaner, more affordable energy solutions for their communities.
For more information on rooftop solar and batteries, visit www.energy.gov.au/solar.
400 new homes for Brighton
Around 400 new homes are set to be built in Brighton following approval of the Boyer Road Precinct Structure Plan by the Tasmanian Planning Commission. Mayor Leigh Gray said the project marked an important step in planning for Brighton’s future growth and housing needs. “This is about providing more housing choice and creating communities that are connected to jobs, infrastructure, and the way people live and work,” Mayor Gray said.
The Boyer Road precinct has been designed to take advantage of its proximity to industry and key transport routes, with future development to be guided by the approved planning framework and supported by essential infrastructure.
Mayor Gray noted the development would build on recent infrastructure projects, including the new Bridgewater Bridge, while supporting broader renewal in surrounding
areas such as Old Main Road and the waterfront. Council also reported early interest in its recently announced First Home Builders rates holiday initiative, with several local residents already approved for the program.
The project received support from the Australian Government through the Housing Support Program Stream 1, along with a cocontribution from Brighton Council.
A story told in parts: The Mountain Errerts
Before streaming, podcasts or bingereading, many readers eagerly awaited the next instalment of a story in their local newspaper or magazine. Serialised fiction – where novels or long-form stories were published chapter by chapter over weeks or months – was once a popular way to follow an unfolding tale.
In that tradition, we are pleased to begin serialising The Mountain Errerts by John Adkins, first published in 1996. Each edition, readers can enjoy a new excerpt from this Tasmanian tale. We begin the journey on Tasmania’s rugged West Coast, as the story opens on a cold and misty road to Queenstown.
The Mountain Errerts
By John Adkins
It was late June when Janice and I were travelling down the main highway on the rugged West coast of Tasmania to the small mining village of Queenstown. The day on the coast was like most days during that time of the year, wet, misty, and very cold.
Our little car sped along dodging potholes, trying to keep its four wheels on the narrow ribbon of bitumen stretching before us. The car held its breath when big logging trucks sped past buffeting us to and fro. Log trucks were quite frequent on this part of the island, servicing the many timber mills and a large paper making company in the town of Burnie.
It had taken about half an hour to pass through the beautiful winding Hellyer Gorge where Dogwoods, Myrtles, Sassafras, Blackwoods, Man ferns and a host of other native trees and plants thrive.
We climbed out the gorge onto a plateau, then through dense rain forests and occasional button grass plains. Huge eucalyptus trees on both sides of the road reached up into the misty beyond, stretching their long slender arms skyward searching for the warmth of the winter sun.
Rivers rushing and tearing at this rockstrewn terrain traced their marks in this foreboding hinterland where only small marsupials and other such creatures live. Oh, and yes, the occasional sighting of the extinct Tasmanian tiger.
Mayor Leigh Gray viewing the upgrades
Brighton’s Next Chapter: More Homes, More Opportunity
Brighton continues to be positioned as one of Tasmania’s most exciting growth areas, and recent announcements regarding housing and development show that our community is well-positioned for the future.
The agreement between the Australian and Tasmanian governments under the First Home Buyers program is a significant milestone for Brighton and a major win for our municipality. This partnership will help unlock enabling infrastructure to support around 800 future homes in the Bridgewater West precinct, creating new opportunities for families, workers and first home buyers.
Brighton has increasingly become Tasmania’s first home buyers capital, and Council is determined to ensure that growth is carefully planned, sustainable and focused on creating connected communities where people can live, work and thrive.
The recent approval of the Boyer Road Precinct Structure
Plan is another major step forward. The precinct will eventually deliver around 400 new homes in a wellconnected area close to industry, transport routes and essential infrastructure.
Importantly, these projects are not only about housing — they are also about jobs and economic opportunity. Large-scale developments such as Bridgewater West and the approved Boyer Road precinct provide long-term certainty for local builders, tradespeople, apprentices and businesses. That certainty allows industry to invest in skills, employment and the workforce needed for the future.
Council has worked closely with the Tasmanian Planning Commission, the Australian
Government and key infrastructure partners to ensure these developments are supported by the right planning frameworks and infrastructure investment. These partnerships are critical to delivering positive outcomes for our community.
The new Bridgewater Bridge has already transformed the way people move across our municipality, and now we are ensuring that major infrastructure investment translates into real benefits for local residents — including more housing, more jobs and stronger communities.
Council also understands that affordability remains a challenge for many people looking to enter the housing market. That is why we recently introduced our First
Home Builders Rates Holiday initiative, which is already receiving strong interest from local residents. It is one practical way Council can support people taking the important step into home ownership.
Brighton’s growth is not happening by chance. It is the result of planning ahead, working collaboratively and making decisions that support the long-term future of our community.
As Mayor, I remain incredibly optimistic about what lies ahead for Brighton. Together, we are building a municipality where people can create opportunities, raise families and feel proud to call home.
Brighton Mayor Leigh Gray
More access to bulk billing Free RSV vaccines for older Tasmanians
Older Tasmanians will soon be able to access free RSV vaccinations, with the Albanese Labor Government providing the vaccine that can prevent serious illness and hospitalisation.
From 15 May, anyone aged 75 and over, as well as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 60 and over, is eligible for a free RSV vaccine through their local GP, pharmacy or health service.
The vaccine previously cost up to $300, placing it out of reach for many people on fixed incomes.
Federal Member for Lyons and Assistant Minister for Health Rebecca White said the change will save lives and give people peace of mind.
“RSV can be incredibly serious for older Australians, and cost should never be a barrier to staying healthy,” Ms White said.
Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a common virus that can lead to severe respiratory illness in older people, often resulting in hospital stays during the winter months. Making the vaccine free is expected to increase uptake and reduce pressure on hospitals.
Ms White said the RSV vaccine rollout is part of broader efforts to expand free and affordable healthcare.
“We’re rolling out more free healthcare across the board — from making it easier to see a doctor for free, to opening Medicare Urgent Care Clinics, to new support for mental health, and cutting the cost of
prescription medicines,” she said.
“We’re delivering important health care and cost of living relief at the same time, because we believe no Tasmanian should have to put off care because of the cost.”
The announcement follows the opening of eight Medicare Urgent Care Clinics in Tasmania, new Medicare Mental Health Centres and Kids Hubs, and reductions to PBS prescription prices, with medicines now capped at $25, or $7.70 for concession card holders.
Older Tasmanians and their families are encouraged to speak with their GP, pharmacist or local health service about RSV vaccination ahead of winter.
Councillor Peter Geard
I will be seeking re-election at the upcoming local government council elections for Brighton Council.
As your Park and Recreation Committee Chair, I believe our Council staff do a fabulous job maintaining our walking paths as well as parks/street landscapes and sporting complexes. Please report rubbish, damage or safety issues to Brighton Council.
Making Brighton a better place.
Thank you, Peter.
Please consider me at the forthcoming election for Councillor.
The Australian Government has increased funding for bulk billing and is supporting more general practices to offer bulk billed appointments for eligible patients. Bulk billing allows patients to access free healthcare using their Medicare card, with Medicare covering the full cost of a GP visit. The changes are designed to make it easier
for people to find a bulk billing GP close to home and reduce out-of-pocket medical costs. The initiative could save households hundreds of dollars each year, particularly for families who visit the doctor regularly. If you’re looking for a participating bulk billing GP, you can search online through the Australian Government’s Health website.
Food Services in Brighton
Bridgewater Community House6 Bowden Drive, Bridgewater. Ph: (03) 6263 4303
Community Food AssistanceMonday and Friday 9.30am–12pm, Wednesday 1pm–3pm.
Loui’s Food Van - Monday evening 7.25pm–7.45pm.
Emergency Food Assistance Hampers - Tuesday 9am–3.30pm. Community LunchWednesday 12pm–1pm.
Vinnies Dining with FriendsDining with Friends provides a free 3-course meal to all in the community who would like to attend on 1st Wednesday of the month at 5.30pm.
Loui's Food Van - In the carpark behind the building, Wednesday evening 7pm–7:20pm.
Brighton Community Food Hub - Permanently located at 86 Jetty Road, Old Beach.
Open weekly as follows: Tuesday 10am–4pm, Wednesday 4pm–7pm, Thursday 10am–4pm.
Brighton Meals on Wheels - For more information call 1800 696 325.
Loui’s Food Van - Monday evening 7pm–7.20pm. Waterbridge Food Co-op/Pantry - Monday to Friday 10am–2pm (delivery service available).
Uniting - 28 Green Point Road, Bridgewater. Ph: (03) 6234 1296.
Emergency Food Relief Services - Thursday and Friday 9.30am–12.30pm.
Please follow Brighton Community Food Hub on Facebook for the latest news and special o ers.
New dog park a hit with locals
Paws have been hitting the path at the Bridgewater Dog Park, at the western end of the Bridgewater Foreshore Trail. Since opening in September 2025, the park has become a popular spot for a run, sniff and play. There are two fully fenced areas to enjoy, with a smaller space for timid or small dogs, and a larger area for general play, each with a
drinking fountain and bench seating.
To make sure the park keeps meeting local needs, Council recently surveyed users and received 39 responses. Around 60 per cent of respondents live in Bridgewater, with others travelling from nearby suburbs to enjoy the space. The top requests were more grass cover
and the addition of dog exercise equipment. Irrigation is due to be installed soon to help the grass establish, and options for extra equipment are being considered as a future upgrade.
Thanks to everyone who took the time to share feedback. If you haven’t visited yet, bring your four-legged friend down and give the park a try.
Reducing contamination in your yellow bin
Let’s talk about the ‘C’ word. No, not that one, the recycling one. When it comes to recycling, the “C” word is “Contamination” – and it’s causing big problems in our yellow-lidded recycling bins.
Everything you place in your recycling bin travels to a Material Recovery Facility (MRF), where materials are tipped onto fast-moving conveyor belts, sorted and baled into single material types (e.g. cardboard bales, aluminium bales, plastic milk
bottle bales, etc), ready to be sold back to factories and turned into new products. Sorting happens quickly using machines, magnets and by hand.
Contamination is anything that cant get baled or doesn’t belong. That includes items that are too big, too small, too dirty,or made of mixed materials (like broken toys or scissors).
But the most surprising contamination type for
Brighton? Bagged recyclables. People doing the right thing, but then leaving their recycling in plastic bags. Plastic bags are not accepted at the MRF as they get tangled in machinery. At high speeds, they also can’t be safely opened, so anything in plastic shopping or garbage bags is removed immediately and sent to landfill. What a waste!
Please be a good sort. Let’s keep the ‘C’ word where it belongs – out of your recycling bin.
Outcomes from recent Council meeting
Tuesday 21 April 2026
• Council resolved to open the public open space walkway located between 3 & 4 Kumali Place, Herdsmans Cove.
• Council approved a 3 month rent reduction of 50% for a commercial tenant at Old Beach.
• Council waived the fees for the Butterflies & Boots Gala Ball being held at the Civic Centre on the 30 May and waived the hire fee for this event for the next 3 years.
• Council approved Pontville Park; Remembrance Park; Swan Park and Childs Drive Park as the official park names and will submit these to the Place Name Advisory Panel at NRE.
• Council resolved that the Brighton Agricultural Society are to reimburse Council for rectification works for damage caused to Gunn Oval following the Brighton Show; with an option to pay over a 3 year period.
• Council endorsed the Draft Brighton & Pontville Local Area Plan to be released for community feedback for a 4 week period.
• Council agreed to proceed with the sale of various properties due to outstanding rates in accordance with Section 137(9) of the Local Government Act 1993.
Anzac Day tribute to WWI nurses
On Anzac Day, Shirley Williams shared the remarkable story of the Curtain sisters – four Tasmanian women whose courage and dedication during World War I left a lasting legacy of service and sacrifice.
The story began on a farm at Elderslie, where David and Maria Curtain raised 14 children with strong values of compassion, love and duty. While sons Edwin, Nicholas and James also served in wartime, four daughters –Mary Kate, Louisa, Hannah and Harriett – became part of an extraordinary chapter in Tasmania’s history through their work as military nurses during World War I.
At a time when opportunities for women in the military were limited, all four sisters qualified as nurses and enlisted with the Australian Army Nursing Service. Nurses were required to have at least three years of hospital training, be aged between 21 and 45, and unmarried or widowed.
Approximately 3,000 Australian nurses served during the war in places including Egypt, England, France and Gallipoli, caring for wounded soldiers from many nations.
Mary Kate “Kit” Curtain served in England and France before illness forced her temporary return to London to recover.
She later continued her nursing career in Tasmania and New Guinea. Harriett Curtain served in Egypt before being required to leave the Army after marrying, although she later volunteered in England during the war effort.
Louisa Curtain served aboard hospital ships and in military hospitals, including a hospital in Egypt where just 51 nurses cared for 1,600 patients. Hannah Curtain served in England and France before returning home in 1919 due to ill health.
The sisters worked in extremely difficult conditions, enduring overcrowded hospitals, shortages of supplies, extreme climates and the emotional toll of caring for badly wounded soldiers. Despite these challenges, the nurses continued their work with professionalism, compassion and resilience.
In 1917, the Zeehan and Dundas Herald praised the sisters’ remarkable contribution, stating that “The State of Tasmania may well be proud of them.”
Today, the four Curtain sisters are commemorated at the Pontville War Memorial Reserve, where their names stand as a reminder of the vital role women played during wartime and the sacrifices they made in service to others.
The new dog park in Bridgewater
NextGen
The Kutalayna Collective, a site of Connected Beginnings Lutruwita, recently teamed up with our partners at Brighton High School, HIPPY Brighton and Deadly Choices Tasmania to host a fun outdoor community movie afternoon, where families came together to watch Kangaroo
while taking part in school holiday activities.
It was a great turnout, with the Kutalayna/Jordan River community enjoying the beautiful new Brighton High School space and connecting
Before the screening, we also shared our new Breathe Strong and Dream Big in Lutruwita campaign video, created by Connected Beginnings Lutruwita in partnership with Asthma Australia. It was a great opportunity to share an important health message with the community in a relaxed and welcoming setting.
Thank you to everyone who came along and helped make the day so special. We hope to have another outdoor movie later in the year!
School wasn’t working but a traineeship changed everything
For one local Year 11 student, a school-based traineeship has completely changed the way he sees his future.
The 16-year-old from Bridgewater, who wishes to remain anonymous, struggled for years in the classroom environment. Like many young people who learn better through practical experience, he found school frustrating and difficult to engage with.
“I hated school. I got frustrated and was swearing a lot,” he admitted.
Close to being suspended once again, the teenager — let’s call him Jake — was offered an opportunity that would prove life-changing: a school-based traineeship.
Jake enjoys spending time with his mates, riding and
repairing his bike and scooter, and buying and selling items on Marketplace. He says there is not a lot for teenagers his age to do in Bridgewater, which often leaves young people disengaged.
At the end of last year, Jake completed a four-week work trial at Loaves & Fishes in Brighton, an organisation that provides affordable, safe and nutritious food to schools and Tasmanians in need. Initially, Jake admits he only signed up to get out of school. But the experience quickly became much more than that. Now, two days a week, he rides his electric scooter to Brighton and works from 7am to 3pm helping with food orders and deliveries.
“Work is a good place to be,” Jake said. “I never have days off, even when I don’t feel
great. I really enjoy hands-on stuff.”
Through the traineeship, Jake has learned valuable workplace skills including manual handling, safety procedures and the importance of protective equipment. “We’ve learnt about lifting heavy things, safety, protective work gear, and we have great support from everyone around us at work,” he said.
For Jake, the traineeship has provided more than just work experience — it has given him confidence, routine and a sense of purpose. It is also a reminder that success at school does not always happen inside a classroom, and that practical pathways can unlock potential in young people who simply learn differently.
School garden blooms after redevelopment
A revitalised 24 Carrot Garden at Jordan River Learning Federation Herdsmans Cove Primary School is flourishing, following a major redevelopment. Aimed at creating a more engaging and inspiring outdoor learning space for students, the redesigned garden was developed through a
substation mural in Bridgewater by neurodivergent
The work was jointly commissioned by TasNetworks and Brighton Council and co-designed with local residents and neighbours.
collaborative process involving students, school staff and community partners. Their feedback has shaped a space designed to encourage play, learning and connection with nature. The renewed garden is a space where children can play, learn and connect outdoors in a creative and welcoming environment.
A new
artist Natalia Bennett.
Kangaroo movie afternoon a success
Brighton movie night
L-R: Nicki, Chantelle, Chloe and Claire from the Kutalayna Collective team
Watching Kangaroo on the big screen
NextGen
HIPPY Brighton
HIPPY Brighton is pleased to introduce new Year 3 Tutors, Tam and Kim, who join existing Year 4 Tutors, Kiarn and Chloe, in supporting local children and families through the HIPPY program.
HIPPY (Home Interaction Program for Parents and Youngsters) is a free, homebased early learning and parenting program that helps families support their child’s learning and development in
the years before school.
Debbie, HIPPY Brighton Coordinator at the Tasmanian Aboriginal Centre, shared, “Every parent is their child’s first teacher, and here at HIPPY Brighton, we are passionate about helping families feel supported, connected and confident in their role in their child’s learning journey. We are excited to support children to grow their love of learning within the community.”
BYAG Sharing Opinions
Jack Triffitt, a member of the Brighton Youth Action Group (BYAG) wrote an opinion piece in The Mercury Newspaper which was published in May. Fantastic work from John Flack and the team at Brighton Council creating a space for voices we must hear through the Brighton Youth Action Group. Jack might be coming for your job, Premier Jeremy Rockcliff!
BYAG’s inspiring day out
The Brighton Youth Action Group (BYAG) recently stepped into the heart of Tasmania’s democracy with a visit to Parliament House as part of their school holiday activity program. The group enjoyed a hands-on experience of parliamentary life, with Kaylee taking on the role of Speaker and leading a lively mock parliament session. Young people debated topics including taxes on sugary foods and whether young people should have a place in parliament, bringing energy, insight and plenty of ideas to the chamber.
Youth Week keeps it real in Brighton
Young people took centre stage in Bridgewater during the 2026 Youth Week celebrations at the end of April, with whole of community coming together to create a day filled with connection, creativity and opportunity. A major highlight was the series of free events hosted by Under One Rainbow, the Brighton Youth Action Group (BYAG), Gagey Boyz Entertainment (GBE) and Brighton Council.
Young people had the chance to take part in a hip
workshop run by GBE, the ‘Youth Xpo’ by Under One Rainbow, which connected local youth with services, programs and opportunities available in the community and finishing the day on an absolute high with the hip hop concert ‘Brighton Loud & Local’ featuring talented local hip hop artists.
For many, Youth Week in Brighton was a reminder of the importance of investing in youth and providing positive activities that encourage
confidence, inclusion and connection. Young people can face challenges around boredom, isolation or limited opportunities, Youth Week offered something different — a chance to feel supported, valued and involved.
The success of the events reflected the dedication of local organisations and community members who continue to advocate for young people and create opportunities for them to thrive. Most importantly,
While exploring the building, BYAG members took in the rich history of the Long Room, including the striking portrait of Sir Richard Dry and a range of significant artworks and artefacts. A standout moment for many was seeing the Black Rod of the Legislative Council, a powerful symbol of parliamentary tradition.
The day continued with a visit to Youth ARC, where the group explored youth-friendly facilities and services. Saxon brought the space to life with an impromptu dance performance on stage, adding
to the fun and creativity of the visit.
“It was awesome that they took us in the rooms where the important people make all the decisions, and you can actually go watch when it happens, which I think is really cool,” said Bri, a member of BYAG.
The experience sparked meaningful conversations among BYAG members about what they value in youth spaces and what they would like to see in their own community, continuing to shape the vision for young people in Brighton.
Youth Week showed what is possible when a community backs its young people — building stronger connections, encouraging positive pathways and helping the next
generation feel proud to be part of their local community.
A huge thank you to everyone involved in making the day such a success.
Year 4 Tutors Kiarn and Chloe
hop music
Loud & Local
HIPPY Brighton team members: Debbie, middle, with Year 3 tutors Tam and Kim
BYAG takes on Parliament House
JUNE
WHAT’S ON IN JUNE/JULY
11
Learn to manage your emails safely with a free session at Bridgewater Library, 10am–11am.
3
All Come Out To Play is a musical adventure for children aged 0–5 and their grown-ups, 10am at Rosny Farm in Rosny Park.
16
Parents and little ones, drop in and play at Tagari lia on Tuesdays between 8.30am–3pm.
1
Loui’s Van is an after-hours mobile service providing food to those in need.
Catch it Mondays at Gagebrook Community Centre at 7pm, and Bridgewater Community Centre at 7.25pm.
21
Tuck into Dark Mofo’s Winter Feast with free admission from 4pm–10pm thanks to the City of Hobart.
4
Head along to the Bond Place Community Gathering for food, music and art, 2.30pm–4.45pm.
Every night until 25 July, you can catch Bicheno Beams, a spectacular free family-friendly light show. Check in at 6pm, show starts at 6:30pm. 27
7
Grab some goodies at the Lions Club of Brighton’s market, on the first Sunday of every month from 10am–2pm, Pontville Hall.
6
Loui’s Van is at Bridgewater Civic Centre at 7pm every Wednesday.
7
Pick up some new toys at the toy library at Tagari lia, on Mondays and Wednesdays between 10am – 12.30pm.
New members needed
The Jordan River Community Theatre was founded in 2024 under the direction of John Adkins, an actor, playwright and artistic director. The group had its first production, a variety concert, in 2024 at the Brighton Civic Centre in Bridgewater. The concert was well received by an audience of over eighty patrons.
The group have developed a great sense of community and are now rehearsing four new plays to be performed at the Pontville Hall, the group’s new home, before winter.
Most of the members have had little or no previous experience on the stage, but they brought with them a willingness to have
a go at something new and rewarding. If you are ready to embrace an activity which will reward you with new friends, improve your memory and discover hidden talents, then the Jordan River Community Theatre could be your stepping stone to a new and exciting activity.
Eventually the group would like to conduct acting classes and develop a cast of performers to have in rolling plays, musicals and variety shows throughout the year.
For more information on joining Jordan River Community Theatre, contact johnwtadkins@ gmail.com or kylie.murphy@ brighton.tas.gov.au.
8
Pop by the Brighton Community Food Hub, open Wednesdays from 10am – 7pm, as well as Wednesdays and Thursdays til 4pm.
8
It’s a public holiday for the King’s Birthday. Take a nice walk in the Brighton municipality or head to a local park for a picnic.
15
Get the littlies to Rock & Rhyme at Bridgewater Library every Wednesday at 10am.
JULY
9
Join Storytime at Bridgewater Library, every Tuesday at 10.30am, for preschoolers aged 3-5 years.
3
Tasmania’s beloved Festival of Voices brings voices together from today until 12 July. Tonight, belt it out at the Big Sing, a powerful mass performance. Visit festivalofvoices.com.
16
Smith Family Learning Club offers homework assistance at Material Institute in Bridgewater from 10.30am–12pm.
17
Shine bright at Lightwave Festival in Turrakana/Tasman Peninsula, fun for the whole family.
Time for snapping the Jerry
The annual Bridgewater Jerry Photo Competition is open for 2026, running from 5 May (World Asthma Day) to 5 August, with a community gallery event on 5 September (in Asthma Week). A collaboration between Bridgewater’s Café Connections and Bean 2 Brew and sponsored by Asthma Australia, the competition is about improving perceptions of the community that lends its name to the unique weather phenomenon.
This is a celebration of a memorable weather event and a chance for the community to share its delight and artistic flair. It’s also about keeping people well and healthy during winter –when Jerry is here, asthma is near – so it’s time to get asthma plans updated and medications reviewed as the weather turns cold.
New activities will land over the course of the competition as the event grows to become a Foggy Festival. A lantern parade is a muchloved idea that could find its feet this year.
Hobart artist Hannah Foley’s website now features a Jerry Forecaster, which learns over time based on submissions from the public about when Jerry happens. Each year the quality and quantity of submissions grows. This year, the competition will be expanding to explore more connections in the community to draw out budding photographers.
Check out the Cafe Connections Facebook page to find out more information on how to enter.
Staying warm and saving money this winter
Winter in Tasmania can be cold and expensive. The good news is that there are plenty of simple, low- cost ways to stay warm and reduce energy bills, even if you live in a rental property. While each action might seem small, taken together they can save hundreds of dollars over winter.
For most Tasmanian homes, heating and hot water are the biggest contributors to power bills, especially in the colder
months. Keeping the warmth you already pay for inside your home is a great place to start.
Cold air often sneaks in through small gaps around doors, windows and floorboards. Sealing these gaps helps keep warm air in and cold air out. You can use a door snake or a rolled-up towel at the bottom of doors, apply foam tape or weather stripping around windows and door frames, or use DIY caulking or
rolled‑up newspaper to fill gaps in floorboards. Laying rugs or blankets on hard floors can also make rooms feel warmer and more comfortable underfoot.
Windows are another major source of heat loss. Thick, lined curtains can make a big difference. Open curtains during the day to let sunlight warm your home, then close them as soon as the sun goes down to trap the heat inside. Make sure curtains sit close to
the wall or window frame to reduce draughts.
When it comes to heating, start with clothing. Wearing extra layers such as jumpers, socks and slippers can make a big difference and reduce the need to turn the heater up high. Try to only heat the rooms you are using. Close doors to unused spaces or hang a thick blanket over an open doorway to keep warmth contained. Before bed, let warmth from the living area
flow into bedrooms, or use an electric blanket or hot water bottle to keep warm where you need it most.
These small, practical changes can help keep you warm, comfortable and in control of your power bills this winter. If you’d like to go a step further, you can loan Council’s Home Energy Audit Toolkit to help you understand your energy consumption. Call 03 6268 7000 to book the toolkit.
Last year’s winning photo by Tammy Cornish
Big Sing. Pic: Festival of Voices
Creamy baked beans
These beans make for a delicious side dish you can pop in the oven while you make the rest of dinner. The recipe is adaptable so you can decide which beans and additions you like best.
Ingredients
• 1 450g tin of butter beans or cannellini beans, rinsed.
• 1/2 cup cream, approx
• 1/2 an onion, red or brown, finely chopped
Method
Pre-heat oven to 190 degrees. Put the rinsed beans in a small overproof dish and cover with the cream. Add onion, garlic and salt and pepper and give it a gentle stir to combine. Top with a light layer of cheese. Bake in the oven for about
• 1 clove garlic, crushed
• A sprinkle of cheese, parmesan or cheddar
• Salt and pepper to taste
15-20 minutes until it’s bubbling and the cheese is browned. Serve immediately.
Note: You can add a dash of white wine or a teaspoon of stock powder for extra flavour.
Responsible dog ownership reminder
With annual dog registration renewals arriving soon, Brighton Council is reminding residents to ensure their dog registrations are up to date. Registration is required for all dogs over six months of age and plays an important role in helping lost pets return home quickly.
Council also encourages owners to check that their dog’s microchip
and contact details are current. Responsible dog ownership includes keeping dogs securely contained, under effective control in public places, and cleaning up after them when out in the community.
Authorised Officers conduct registration checks throughout the year and penalties may apply for unregistered dogs.
More than a food bank
Words: Loaves & Fishes
For too many Tasmanians, the question of where the next meal is coming from isn’t hypothetical, it’s real. Loaves & Fishes Tasmania exists to answer that question. Our Brighton warehouse is one of the locations where it all begins. Every week, tonnes of rescued and donated food pass through its doors, sorted, packed, and sent out to families, seniors and individuals across the region who are quietly doing it tough. It’s unglamorous work and it matters enormously.
But we’ve never seen ourselves as just a food bank. Food is the open door, and what comes next is where the real change happens. Our kitchen training programs give people practical, job-ready skills in a professional environment, and many go on to build careers in hospitality and food service. A
TAKE A BREAK
hamper might get someone through the week – qualification can change the direction of their life.
To keep that work funded and growing, we run a range of social enterprises including Campers Pantry, Hoozles Honey and Forth Valley Olive Oil. Every product sold helps us do more. It’s a model we’re proud of: good food, doing good.
Brighton has been a generous and welcoming home for our operations, and we don’t take that for granted. The volunteers, local partners and community members who show up for us make everything possible.
If you’d like to get involved through volunteering, donating, or simply telling someone we exist, we’d be glad to hear from you. You can call 03 6417 3131. No one in this community should go hungry. We’re working on it every day.
2026
MEETING
SCHEDULE
The following meetings are scheduled to be held in the Council Chambers at 1 Tivoli Road, Old Beach:
News from the Lions (Club) den
Words: Zena Savage
Lions have recently been seen in the Brighton Council community; however, these are not the four-legged creatures you might imagine. Rather, they are dedicated individuals from the Lions Club of Brighton.
The Lions Club of Brighton are a small but committed group of volunteers who balance their service with personal, family and professional responsibilities. Our membership represents both men and women, each contributing their unique skills and generously dedicating their time to support our community.
Our motto is “Making our communities a better place to live, work and grow.” While our efforts primarily focus on the local area, our reach also extends to regional, national and international communities. All funds raised are reinvested into supporting our local community.
We are widely recognised for organising monthly markets (held on the first Sunday from February to November, and a Saturday Twilight Market in December). In addition to the market, we actively uphold our motto by addressing numerous
requests for assistance throughout the year. In the past year, our initiatives have included:
• Presenting Rising Star Awards. One Year 6 student from each local school receives a $400 gift voucher from Officeworks to facilitate a smooth transition to high school
• Concreting a section of driveway to improve wheelchair access into the home for a local resident
• Preparing and serving an evening meal at Ronald McDonald House, where families can stay while their child is in hospital
• Providing one off gardening support for an elderly woman following her husband’s passing.
We also make financial contributions of varying amounts to enable locals to participate in:
• State sporting events
• Medical procedures on the mainland
• A two-year program in Austria for an opera singer
• The Windward Bound Youth Adventure Tallship voyage.
Additionally, we support other community events and charities such as:
• Running the free BBQ at The Brighton Christmas Carols
• $500 donation to Brighton Youth Action Group for Youth week activities
• $500 donation to Australian Bush Fire and Flooding Appeal
• Assisting other clubs in delivering their events, including the Glenorchy Model Train Show and activities in New Norfolk.
With increased membership (particularly among younger community members), the impact of the Lions Club of Brighton could be significantly enhanced. New members would contribute additional manpower, as well as fresh perspectives and ideas.
We encourage all community members to consider getting involved and making a meaningful contribution. To learn more about the Lions Club of Brighton, please visit our Facebook page. You are welcome to attend our meetings, which take place at 6:30pm on the third Monday of each month at the Old Council Chamber in Pontville. Meetings typically last about one hour. We look forward to welcoming you and addressing any questions you may have.
The public are invited end these mee tings. Copies of the relevant agenda will be available for viewing at website four (4) days prior to each meeting
James Dryburgh CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
Volunteer members of the Lions Club of Brighton
Brighton welcomes Curtis Knox
Brighton Council is delighted to welcome Curtis Knox as its new Community Creators Coordinator. Curtis brings a genuine passion for helping young people have a real voice in shaping the places they live, along with a strong commitment to building positive, connected communities.
Earlier in his career, Curtis worked as an engineer with BAE Systems, Inc. in North America as a civilian defence contractor supporting the U.S. Navy. Over the past two decades, however, his focus has been firmly rooted in the youth and community sector.
He brings extensive experience across youth justice, early intervention, out-of-home care, and the employment sector, with a strong emphasis on supporting early school leavers. His career journey has also included a brief stint working in Queensland along the way.
In his new role, Curtis works closely with schools to empower students to take an active role in their community and ensure their voices are heard. Having previously worked in and around the Brighton area, Curtis says it
Off the hook!
The Jordan River Adventurers had a great day out fishing recently. Deck chairs, fishing rods, bait and berley pots were loaded as the group set off for a lovely day’s fishing at the Triabunna wharf. They climbed aboard the Jordan River Services bus with member Ian Roberts behind the wheel.
The weather was perfect and the group were ready to catch that whopper! While waiting, they had time to catch up and chat about the weather, friends, politics, local news and of course, fishing.
A local came along and said, “You won’t catch any fish here
– all the fish are on the other side of the bay near the old chip mill.”
So, the Jordan River Adventurers decided to hang out at the wharf till lunch time, then move over to the other side of the bay. Mario had his lunch early and was fishing while everyone else went over to the ‘Fish n’ Chip caravan’ for lunch. While they were lunching, he was catching!
The group then went over to the other side of the bay but all they caught were snags – no fish (local knowledge!). Despite this, all had a great day out.
has been especially rewarding to return and reconnect with familiar faces who continue to make a difference locally.
Looking ahead in the year, Curtis is focused on strengthening the Community Creators program through more interactive and engaging learning experiences for younger students, while applying an asset-based community development approach that builds on Brighton’s existing strengths.
A key priority is supporting a more positive conversation around youth wellbeing and safety, work that is already helping drive the development of a youth-led road safety committee. Alongside this, Curtis hopes to highlight the many positive things happening in Brighton and challenge the stigma that too often affects local young people.
Garage Sale Trail delivers big results
More than 12,000 southern Tasmanians took part in the 2025 Garage Sale Trail, helping keep over 47,000 quality items out of landfill while generating more than $429,000 for the local community. The two weekends of community garage sales saw residents across the region buy, sell and reuse secondhand goods, supporting both household budgets and sustainability efforts. The event continues to grow in popularity as more people embrace circular economy practices and look for ways to reduce waste through reuse and recycling.
Council venue hire
Looking for the perfect spot for your next celebration or work event?
Brighton Council offers a range of versatile, affordable spaces ideal for community activities and events.
The Brighton Civic Centre is a multipurpose venue, while the Council Chambers is ideal for workshops and corporate meetings.
For personal or community gatherings, the Old Beach Community Hall and Pontville Memorial Hall, located within Pontville Park, offer medium-sized multipurpose spaces.
To find out more, visit www.brighton.tas.gov.au/community/parks-facilities or call Council on (03) 6268 7000
Wordsearch secret message: Northern Warriors
Welcome, Curtis!
Local Community Sport
Bowls club on the rise
Words: Jo Leslie
The Brighton Bowls & Community Club is fast becoming one of the region’s standout sporting and social hubs, blending competitive success with a strong and growing sense of community spirit. Over recent years, the club has undergone a transformation. Driven by a passionate group of volunteers, members, and supporters, Brighton Bowls Club has worked to improve its facilities, expand its reach and create an environment that welcomes everyone, from seasoned bowlers to those stepping onto the green for the very first time.
Showcasing an exciting new logo and uniform thanks to Major club sponsor BelleParker@homes, the club is now affectionately known as the Brighton Bulls. The club is open year-round, encouraging both new and returning players to get involved in a sport that continues to grow in popularity
across all age groups. Once referred to as an older generational sport, lawn bowls is becoming a game for all ages. This year the club introduced night pennant games which were a huge success. Engaging the community with an exciting atmosphere and showcasing highly competitive lawn bowls which drew in over 100 spectators at each game, clearly demonstrating the clubs focus to trial new innovative ideas.
Kicking off soon is the random draw on a Wednesday and Saturday which is a great introduction to new players and a good way for the experienced to keep their eye in over the off season. The club has a strong pathway from junior development through to senior and state representation. Leading the junior development is State Junior Coach John Nichols, who has been instrumental in supporting the players and providing valuable guidance.
Beyond bowls, the club has also positioned itself as a valuable community venue. Its modern clubrooms are available for hire, with options including catering services and great bar prices, ideal for functions, celebrations, and local events.
While the progress on the green has been impressive, the 2025–26 season off the green has been equally remarkable as the club currently has 80 full members and with the introduction of a members discount card the club has witnessed a significant social memberships growth, expanding the membership base by a further 50%. Social members do not need to bowl but simply enjoy the club and all it has to offer.
With momentum building both on and off the green, Brighton is not just a bowls club, it’s a thriving community at the heart of the region.
Community turns out for soccer precinct opening day
Hundreds of residents turned out on Saturday 11 April to celebrate the official opening of the new soccer grounds, club facilities and car park at Ted Jeffries Memorial Park. The precinct was officially opened by Mayor Leigh Gray and Federal Member for Lyons, Rebecca White. Families and young players filled the grounds throughout the day, creating a lively atmosphere as the community explored the new facilities.
The event was supported by the Rotary Club, whose BBQ proved extremely popular and sold out on the day. Visitors also praised the landscaping and overall presentation of the precinct, with many commenting on the quality of the new community space.
Council thanks everyone involved in delivering the project and helping make the opening day such a success.
Little athletes celebrating a season of success
East Derwent Little Athletics Centre recently came together to celebrate a successful season at its annual Presentation Day, with athletes, families and volunteers enjoying a memorable end-of-season gathering.
Several special awards were presented to recognise outstanding effort, sportsmanship and commitment throughout the season. The Helen Adams Award was awarded to Under 8 athlete Zoe for her dedication and
enthusiasm. Darcy received the Under 13 Sportsmanship Award and Ethan was presented with the Under 15 Sportsmanship Award, both recognised for their positive attitudes and respect for others throughout the season. The prestigious President’s Award was presented to Ari, acknowledging a fantastic season and a well-rounded contribution to the club both on and off the track.
The club also recently held its Annual General Meeting,
where Troy Godfrey was reelected as President. Under his guidance, East Derwent Little Athletics has continued to grow and strengthen over recent seasons, building a supportive and inclusive environment for athletes and families alike.
The committee took the opportunity to extend heartfelt gratitude to Lyn Springer and Kat King for their outstanding dedication and long-standing service to the committee. Their valuable insights, commitment
and passion for the club have played an important role in the growth of East Derwent, and their ongoing involvement in different roles around the club will be felt for years to come.
With the season now concluded, East Derwent Little Athletics looks forward to welcoming new and returning families when the season re-opens in September. Community members are encouraged to keep an eye on the club’s Facebook page for further
information closer to the start of the season.
L-R: The Hon. Rebecca White MP, Brighton Councillors Greg Irons and Phil Owen, Deputy Mayor Barb Curran, Mayor Leigh Gray and Mrs Jen Butler MP
