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Australia’s ‘most isolated’ property could be yours

A parcel of land in Tasmania is up for grabs, but unlike other vacant lots on the market right now, this one offers seclusion and undisturbed ocean views. The 100-acre lot is located on the western side of King Island, Bungaree, overlooking the Southern Ocean. According to <a href="https://www.domain.com.au/253-buttons-road-bungaree-tas-7256-2017573996?gclid=Cj0KCQiAg_KbBhDLARIsANx7wAw9ka8CM9bZOC-j1ZlJxaoSebxdZwvNNYs1NYPIUosFh-7dIBZZF5waAr97EALw_wcB?utm_source=nine.com.au&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=editorial-content" target="_blank" rel="noopener">the listing</a>, made through Circa Heritage and Lifestyle Property Specialists, the block serves as the perfect opportunity “to create an oasis” fit for nature lovers, environmentalists or “anyone in search of seclusion and privacy”. Along with its proximity to the ocean, the property includes a heart-shaped dam and creek that runs into the ocean. There are no other properties in sight either, so if its new owner builds their dream home they will just have the birds, fish, and kangaroos to keep them company. “It is said there is 'something special' about the water quality on this acreage with it's heart shaped dam and permanent creek running to the ocean where thousands of crayfish were released by the Tasmanian Government and where the locals say the crayfish from these waters gown three years faster than anywhere else in the Southern Hemisphere!” the listing says. “Add to this abalone fishing at your fingertips, an enormous array of fish and bird species passing through throughout the year from the Northern Hemisphere, a private sandy swimming and surfing beach, a well-protected bay for launching your own boat safely and easily and even a cray fishing licence available and you have what can only be described as a nature lover's paradise.” The property has potential for cattle, sheep and goats, while abalone and cray fishing are on its doorstep. While it is isolated and private, the property’s future owner can still socialise, with the island offering golf courses, cafes and restaurants at its heart and Melbourne at just a 45-minute flight away. “'253 Buttons Road' offers the opportunity to create a stunning and secluded family home, holiday retreat, boutique tourism venture or off-grid, eco-friendly haven in a pristine and unspoiled location,” the listing reads. Images: Circa Heritage and Lifestyle Property Specialists

Real Estate

About 200 dead whales have been towed out to sea off Tasmania – and what happens next is a true marvel of nature

Australians watched in horror as 230 pilot whales became stranded at a beach near Macquarie Harbour on Tasmania’s west coast. Some whales were saved, but the vast majority died. This left a big problem: what to do with all the rotting whale carcasses? Authorities decided to tow the dead animals out to sea, hoping they’ll eventually sink to the seafloor. Such mass whale strandings are sad to witness. But in this case, the aftermath presents a fascinating opportunity for scientific discovery. As the dead whales decompose, an astonishing and rare chain of events is likely to flow through the marine ecosystem – ultimately leading to an explosion of activity and new life. <h2>A 600-tonne problem</h2> Mass whale strandings happen fairly regularly – especially in Tasmania – yet no one really knows why. Days before this latest incident, <a href="https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-09-20/sperm-whales-stranded-off-king-island-tasmania/101457406" target="_blank" rel="noopener">14 sperm whales</a> became stranded off King Island, northwest of Tasmania. And in 2020, about 470 pilot whales <a href="https://theconversation.com/like-trying-to-find-the-door-in-a-dark-room-while-hearing-your-relatives-scream-for-help-tasmanias-whale-stranding-tragedy-explained-146674" target="_blank" rel="noopener">became stranded</a> at Macquarie Harbour. While many were pulled out to sea, some of those carcasses washed up and were left to rot on the beach – an entirely natural process. However, pilot whales are big animals. Males weigh up to 2,300kg, which means they take a long time to decompose. The smell of two tonnes of rotting whale blubber soon becomes unbearable, so carcasses are frequently buried. This time around, authorities <a href="https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-09-25/whale-carcasses-towed-out-to-sea-after-mass-stranding/101471166" target="_blank" rel="noopener">decided to tow</a> the dead animals out to sea. The ABC reported local salmon farm workers took almost 11 hours to dispose of 204 dead whales with a combined weight of between 500 and 600 tonnes. They were tied to a 400 metre-long rope and towed by boats for 40 kilometres, before being dropped into deep water in the Indian Ocean. Some carcasses may wash back to shore, but most are likely to disperse with the tides and currents. <h2>Shark bait? Probably not</h2> The big question is: what happens to all that whale mass dumped at sea? Initially, a dead whale tends to float to the surface as it begins to decompose and its innards expand with gas. As this happens, ocean scavengers such as sharks and seabirds are likely to feast on the remains. Some people <a href="https://www.abc.net.au/news/2019-04-14/do-buried-whale-carcasses-really-attract-sharks/10996512" target="_blank" rel="noopener">can be concerned</a> that whale carcasses attract sharks that might pose a risk to humans. Granted, encounters between sharks and humans, are <a href="https://theconversation.com/fatal-shark-attacks-are-at-a-record-high-deterrent-devices-can-help-but-some-may-be-nothing-but-snake-oil-150845" target="_blank" rel="noopener">on the rise</a> in Australia and elsewhere. But they’re still very rare. A <a href="https://parks.des.qld.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0024/167613/swim-humpback-whales-risks-sharks.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">report</a> to the Western Australian government in 2012 found whale carcasses were a risk factors associated with shark attacks, and said caution should be exercised near a dead whale in the water. But the same report noted that of 26 shark attacks investigated, the highest number occurred more than a kilometre offshore. While there is no doubt <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.gecco.2019.e00655" target="_blank" rel="noopener">sharks are attracted to dead whales</a>, the data is <a href="https://hakaimagazine.com/news/beached-whales-are-a-lure-for-hungry-sharks/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">not clear</a> on whether a whale carcass leads directly to an increase in shark attacks on people. Research <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2351989419301854?via%3Dihub" target="_blank" rel="noopener">has shown</a> the likelihood of whale carcasses washing towards shore, where shark scavenging can be observed, is low. So as long as the carcass is taken far from shore and people keep their distance from it, the threat to humans from shark encounters appears to be exceedingly low. <h2>From death comes new life</h2> Inevitably, the whale carcass will start to sink. Most life in the ocean is found fairly close to the sea surface, so if the water is relatively shallow much of what’s left of the carcass will be quickly eaten by scavengers once it reaches the sea floor. But these carcasses have been disposed of in deep water. The deep ocean can be a barren place, where rich food sources are rare. So the appearance of a single whale carcass can supercharge an entire ecosystem. New life and activity can erupt around the dead animal in very little time. This process is known as “whale fall” and has been studied by scientists, sometimes using remotely operated vehicles. On the seafloor of the North Pacific, whale fall has been found to <a href="https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fevo.2022.885572/full" target="_blank" rel="noopener">support the survival</a> of at least 12,490 organisms of 43 species. Deep sea sharks will make the most of the carcass. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CZzQhiNQXxU" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A host of other animals</a> including hagfish, octopus, crabs, lobsters, worms and sea cucumbers will join in too. All the while bacteria work away quietly in the background. <a href="https://www.nhm.ac.uk/discover/what-happens-when-whales-die.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">According to</a> Britain’s Natural History Museum, a single whale can provide animals with food for up to two years during the scavenging stage. Other animals and bacteria survive off the chemicals produced from the rotting carcass. These organisms, known as “chemotrophs” were thought to be unique to underwater volcanic vents, where they use hydrogen sulphide as the principal energy source. <a href="https://doi.org/10.1098/rspb.2016.2337" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Research</a> has shown a similar suite of animals recruit around dead and decaying whales – generating a completely independent ecosystem based on a gas that <a href="https://www.nhm.ac.uk/discover/what-happens-when-whales-die.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">smells like rotten eggs</a>. Only a few organisms can break down the bones that remain, in a process that might take up to ten years. So take a moment to consider the effect of 204 whale falls in a small part of the ocean off Tasmania. Right now, they are probably generating interconnected marine metropolises, the likes of which are rarely seen. This article originally appeared on <a href="https://theconversation.com/about-200-dead-whales-have-been-towed-out-to-sea-off-tasmania-and-what-happens-next-is-a-true-marvel-of-nature-191340" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Conversation</a>. Image: Twitter

Travel Trouble

See inside the new experience exclusively for women

Step into a lavish world of hobnobbing, wine and lavish food with your very own butler at the latest, most exclusive event from Tasmania’s Museum of Old and New Art (MONA). The <a href="https://mona.net.au/stuff-to-do/experiences/ladies-lounge" target="_blank" rel="noopener">High Tea for Two</a>, held in the museum’s opulent Ladies Lounge, was created by artist and curator Kirsha Kaechele and is an experience only available for women. Kaechele was inspired by the ladies-only parties thrown by her great-grandmother “Tootsie”, a scandalous socialite, which involved a fleet of dancing butlers, 400-year-old wines, and occasional visits from Spanish painter Pablo Picasso. With a dress code of green, gold, black and white finery, you can expect to be greeted by your butler with elbow-length velvet gloves and extravagant jewellery for you to wear, followed by a 12-course high tea in the chandelier-lit lounge where works from Picasso are among those donning the walls. <img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2022/06/mona-tea1.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="720" /> The High Tea for Two is inspired by the women-only parties held by its creator’s great-grandmother. Images: MONA Though the lounge is open to any women visiting the museum, high tea sessions are restricted to just two ladies, your butler Hepburn, his sidekick “Robinson”, and a blindfolded saxophonist - making you part of the artwork that others can observe. The two-hour experience runs twice daily (11am and 2.30pm) on Saturdays and Sundays, with the total $500 package including nibbles, matched drinks, butler service and museum entry. To book your experience, head <a href="https://culturalattractionsofaustralia.com/experiences/high-tea-for-two/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>. Image: MONA

Domestic Travel

Fears grow for missing little girl

The search for a missing four-year-old girl who vanished from her mother’s backyard in Tasmania has continued, with police becoming increasingly concerned about her welfare. Shayla Phillips was playing with a neighbour’s two dogs in her mum’s backyard in Stormlea, southeast of Hobart, on Wednesday afternoon at about 2.30pm. But, when Shayla’s mother, Bianca, went to check on her daughter after 30 minutes, she found that Shayla and one of the dogs had disappeared, as reported by the <a href="https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-10646747/Shayla-Phillips-Growing-fears-missing-girl-4-desperate-search-enters-second-night.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Daily Mail</a>. After frantically searching the property herself, Bianca called Tasmania Police at 3pm. The missing dog was found later that same night about 800 metres from where Shayla was last seen, but no trace of the “happy healthy child” has been found in over 24 hours despite extensive search efforts from Tasmania Police. <iframe style="overflow: hidden; border: initial none initial;" src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=469&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FTas.Police%2Fvideos%2F741911827217753%2F&show_text=true&width=560&t=0" width="560" height="584" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe> “As we enter day two of the search for Shayla, increasing concerns are held for her welfare,” Inspector Gavin Hallett said in a <a href="https://www.police.tas.gov.au/news-events/media-releases/significant-search-ongoing-in-stormlea-area-for-missing-4-year-old-girl-shayla-phillips/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">statement</a> released on Thursday afternoon. “Due to the isolation and terrain in the Stormlea Road area where Shayla was last seen, a broad range of resources are continuing to be utilised to search from the air and on the ground,” Inspector Hallett said. With locals reporting temperatures of 10 C on Wednesday night, concerns for Shayla’s safety have been growing due to her young age and the dense terrain. Police are searching for Shayla using divers, sniffer dogs, drones with thermal sensors, and investigators, and are being assisted by Tasmania SES, Ambulance Tasmania, a Westpac Rescue Helicopter and even people on horseback, according to the <a href="https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-03-25/missing-girl-spends-second-night-lost-in-southern-tasmania/100937436" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ABC</a>. <img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2022/03/shayla.jpg" alt="" /> Police divers searched ponds and dams on the property on the first day of the search. Image: Tasmania Police “In all we’ve had close to 100 emergency service personnel assisting us in the search,” Inspector Hallett said. “Because of the isolation, terrain and age of Shayla the rescue helicopter was deployed immediately.” With this many resources being deployed and the isolation of the area, police have requested no additional help from the public in their search. However, a new image of Shayla wearing a two-piece pink tracksuit has been circulating on social media with the hopes it could help her be recognised. She was last seen wearing pink leggings, a cream top and gumboots. Since the dogs were found “quite a distance away” from the backyard, Inspector Hallett said it was an indicator that Shayla’s disappearance wasn’t due to any “untoward activity”. “That’s an indicator to us, that if there had been some untoward activity the dogs wouldn’t have been gone, they would have been here,” he said. Authorities don’t believe any other parties were involved in Shayla’s disappearance at this stage. “I’ve spoken to the mother Bianca and she’s very stoic,” Inspector Hallett said. “She’s a strong woman and hopeful we will find Shayla.” Image: Tasmania Police

News

Aussie Town of the Year crowned for 2022

With Australia being such a huge country, knowing where the best places are can make it easier to plan an unforgettable trip. To help prospective travellers, <a href="https://www.wotif.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Wotif</a> has announced the country’s top places to visit - and Launceston in Tasmania has taken the top prize as the 2022 Aussie Town of the Year. “Launceston’s fresh produce, renowned sparkling wine and commitment to great food is world-famous,” said Daniel Finch, the managing director of Wotif. <img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2022/02/launceston1.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="720" /> Launceston has been crowned the best Aussie town for 2022. Image: Supplied “With some of Tasmania’s most spectacular natural landmarks just a short drive away, including the Tamar Valley, Cradle Mountain - Lake St Clair National Park and the Bay of Fire, it’s no surprise that demand for the city has grown by over 125 percent on Wotif.com.” Although international borders have begun to reopen, Wotif found that a third of Aussies plan to stay within Australia, while 24 percent plan to visit somewhere new. Though Tasmania took the top spot, the top ten featured entries from each of the six states. Victoria’s Yarra Valley, Bright and Halls Gap made the list, making it the state with the most prized destinations. Caloundra and Hervey Bay made the list on behalf of Queensland, while Tamworth and Batemans Bay represented New South Wales. Wotif’s 2022 Aussie Town of the Year Award winners <ol> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> Launceston, TAS </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> Caloundra, QLD </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> Tamworth, NSW </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> Yarra Valley, VIC </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> Adelaide Hills, SA </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> Bright, VIC </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> Hervey Bay, QLD </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> Halls Gap, VIC </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> Batemans Bay, NSW </li> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> Busselton, WA </li> </ol> Image: Supplied

Domestic Travel

Most welcoming regions on earth revealed

As international travel is back on the cards, the most welcoming regions in the world have been announced for 2022, with both Australia and New Zealand nabbing spots in the top ten.In a list compiled by <a href="https://www.booking.com/">booking.com</a> of over 232 million verified reviews, travellers have concluded the most hospitable places to add to your travel bucket list. Melissa Ellison, the booking.com Area Manager for Australia, commented on the impressive results saying, "The travel industry has remained vigilant and flexible in light of the continued uncertainty and travel restrictions we've seen over the course of the past year."Despite this she says, "The passion and dedication of our Australian partners to create safe and welcoming travel experiences for everyone across the nation has continued to shine through."The state of Tasmania took out the third place on the list, while New Zealand’s region of Canterbury came in at number six. There are many other stunning locations that have made the top ten list, which should be a must-see destination for keen travellers this year. <ol><li>Gorenjska, Slovenia</li></ol>Located in northwest of Slovenia, the number one winner is located in the picturesque eastern European mountains. The stunning alpine valleys and charming mediaeval towns make the region the most hospitable place on earth for 2022 travellers. <ol start="2"><li>Taitung County, Taiwan</li></ol>The stunning Asian region is located on the Beinan River and showcases an impressive landscape of coastal areas and vast mountain ranges. The accommodating people and immersive culture make Taiwan a must-visit destination. <ol start="3"><li>Tasmania, Australia</li></ol>The island state is known for its rich history and beautiful scenery. Along with the welcoming residents, Tasmania is set to charm any visitors with its iconic museums and galleries, along with the stunning coastal waters. <ol start="4"><li>Burgenland, Austria</li></ol>Otherwise known as “the vegetable garden of Vienna”, Burgenland is an unsuspecting agricultural province in Austria. Mostly known for its stunning vineyards, visitors are sure to fall in love with the charming Austrian region. <ol start="5"><li>Seychelles, Africa</li></ol>Located on the picturesque African coastline, Seychelles boasts mesmerising scenic nature reserves, coral reefs and crystal clear beaches. The tropical destination is sure to win over any traveller with its unyielding beauty. <ol start="6"><li>Canterbury, New Zealand</li></ol>Situated on New Zealand’s South island, Canterbury is surrounded by clear lakes, snow-capped mountains and grassy plains. Filled with charming coastal towns, visitors to Canterbury are among the luckiest of travellers. <ol start="7"><li>Santa Cruz, Argentina</li></ol>A province in Argentina’s Patagonia region, Santa Cruz boasts extraordinary glacial scenery for the most daring traveller. Situated between the Atlantic Ocean and Andes mountains, a visit to Santa Cruz is a once in a lifetime experience.<ol start="8"><li>Nova Scotia, Canada</li></ol>Surrounded by forests, lakes and farmland, this Canadian province is a hub for the arts. Boasting countless music, art and theatre events throughout the year, this coastal town is a must-see for any lover of the arts. 9. Limón, Costa RicaThis Caribbean province is surrounded by dense jungle, mountains and the beaches of Costa Rica. This tropical paradise boasts unmatched beauty and a rich culture for all to enjoy. <ol start="10"><li>La Rioja, Spain</li></ol>This Spanish city is home to more than 500 wineries, making their scenic vineyards a must-see destination for any lovers of wine. The charming city is rich with history, stunning architecture, and countless vineyard activities such as hot-air ballooning and horse-riding. Image credits: Getty Images

International Travel

Touching scenes at sorrowful farewell for Hillcrest victim

Image: Pinegrove Funerals Zane Mellor, one of the victims of the Hillcrest Primary School jumping castle incident in Tasmania's north, has been remembered in Devonport as a loving teenager and a passionate gamer. The 12-year-old was one of six students killed last Thursday while celebrating the last day of school, when a gust of wind lifted a jumping castle and some zorb balls into the air, causing children to fall from a height of about 10 metres. Two children remain in hospital a week after the incident but have been moved out of intensive care. At the service, at Pinegrove Funerals in Devonport, Zane's casket was draped in his PlayStation console, controllers and a poster of one of his favourite games. Speakers spoke fondly of his love of the hobby and other gamer friends he played with all over the world sent in messages of condolences. Officiator Tracey Bruce said Zane had some challenges in life with "both ADHD and autism". "But these quirks made him the character he was and certainly didn't stand in his way," she said. "He also had a love of animals, he was the chicken whisperer, the cat whisperer, and his support dog Peanut the dachshund was very loved," she said. Ms Bruce said Zane enjoyed spending time with his family. "Zane was kind, loving and caring to his little brothers and sisters until they got to around the age of five, then it turned into your typical sibling love-hate relationship," she said. "As a young boy he liked to head off on adventures and exploring with his dad. "His pop also told me that Zane had a fascination with hammering nails and cutting wood with a handsaw. "He was intrigued about building and Zane may have followed this path as he got older." Zane's mother, Georgie Mellor, gave a tearful tribute to her son, recalling his first breath and how he was always there for her as a young mum. "I was so young when I had you — only 15 — and now I know why," she said. Zane had twin passions — dinosaurs and gaming — which combined to form his online player name Jurassic Zane. Ms Mellor said her son "knew every dinosaur name" and "exactly what period they came from". He was said to have often corrected family members about the pronunciations. She said she spoiled her son rotten "and I have no regrets". "Everyone told me to get you off that PlayStation, but I let you play until your heart was content, until your eyes got sleepy and you fell asleep," she said. "I would come in, take your headset off, turn the PlayStation off and kiss your head goodnight. "The past year you have grown into a man that finally grew his wings. "I love you Zane, no matter what the weather, we're together. I love you Zane," she finished. At the end of the funeral Zane's casket was carried to the waiting hearse, and mourners, led by close family members, walked behind it as it left the funeral home.

News

Hillcrest survivor speaks publicly for first time

A survivor of the tragic jumping castle tragedy that <a rel="noopener" href="https://oversixty.com.au/news/news/just-shattering-outpouring-of-grief-after-fatal-primary-school-incident" target="_blank">shook the town of Devonport, Tasmania last week</a> has spoken publicly for the first time since the ordeal. 12-year-old Beau Medcraft broke both of his arms and shattered his wrist when a gust of wind sent the jumping castle he was on 10 metres into the air at end of year celebrations at Hillcrest Primary School. He was one of nine students injured in the accident, while <a rel="noopener" href="https://oversixty.com.au/news/news/children-killed-in-hillcrest-tragedy-identified-amid-overwhelming-support" target="_blank">six of his friends</a> tragically died. Two children remain in hospital. In a video sent to country-rock musician Casey Barnes, Beau expressed his gratitude to the community for their messages of support. Sitting on a couch, with both arms in plaster, his right arm in a sling, and wearing Casey Barnes merch, Beau said, “Thanks for all the support and all the awesome people that commented. "I watched your video again and thought it was very nice.” Beau's dad also commented on the post, writing, "From beaus parents Hello to each and everyone thank you, your awesome an your comments are being heard and lifting his spirit as Beau reads through the comments and tells me who says this or says that with the biggest smile 😊 so from both me and his mum I wanted to say thank you for your kind heartfelt messages and words of encouragement to our boy Beau ❤️" <iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=476&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FCaseyBarnesOfficial%2Fvideos%2F1612545862412810%2F&show_text=false&width=267&t=0" width="267" height="476" style="border: none; overflow: hidden;" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe> Commenters were quick to send Beau well wishes, with one person writing, “I know it's hard right now but things will get better,” and another commenting, “Love and a million wishes for a speedy recovery Beau. All of Tassie is behind you.” Barnes grew up in Tasmania and went to college in Devonport, and promised to organise “something special” for Beau and his family in the new year. Beau’s video comes as the <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/hillcrestprimary?utm_campaign=p_cp+share-sheet&utm_medium=copy_link_all&utm_source=customer" target="_blank">fundraiser for families affected by the tragedy</a> cracks the $1.4 million mark. The GoFundMe page will soon be shut down, as the money is rolled into a new public fund that will be coordinated by Devonport Council and the Tasmanian government, in order to ensure transparency. At a council meeting on Monday, Devonport councillor Alison Jarmin said, “I know there’s some angst about what is going to happen to these funds and how they are going to be administered. “We going to be making sure it goes to the right places and goes to the families and doesn’t get lost in governance and bureaucracy.” Devonport local and creator of the GoFundMe, Zoe Smith, said she was in awe at people’s generosity, telling reporters over the weekend, "It's just beyond anything we could have thought possible. “People should just be so proud of themselves and the amount that they have donated. It's incredible.” Image: Facebook

Caring

Police begin heart-wrenching task at Hillcrest Primary

Just four days after the tragedy at Hillcrest Primary School that claimed the lives of six children, speciality police have arrived in Tasmania to help the investigation. After being flown down from New South Wales, the specialty officers will help interview many of the young witnesses of the jumping castle incident, in the hopes to piece together what caused the tragedy to occur. Tasmania Police Assistant Commissioner Jonathan Higgins said extra resources were needed given the large number of young and vulnerable witnesses. Approximately 40 students had attended the end of year celebrations, when a strong gust of wind sent a jumping castle flying 10 metres into the air. Police officers, along with WorkSafe Tasmania, are investigating the cause of the incident and will report directly to the coroner. “The ongoing coronial investigation is not something we can comment on,” Mr Higgins told reporters. “We’ll methodically work through the circumstances of it. The lead-up, what happened at the time and afterwards.” As well as the additional police officers, the federal government announced $800,000 will be made available to fund trauma counselling for the community and first responders. The news of reinforcement comes just days after a sixth child died in hospital from injuries he sustained during the heart-breaking incident. Chace Harrison, 11, died in hospital on Sunday, as two other children remain in critical condition in Royal Hobart Hospital. Tributes have flown for Chace online, with his basketball club, the Devonport Warriors, sharing how much Chace meant to the community. <iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FBasketballAustralia%2Fposts%2F462641058555992&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="649" style="border: none; overflow: hidden;" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe> “It is with the heaviest of hearts that we say goodbye to our little Warrior, Chace,” his club posted on Facebook. “(To) all your extended family we wrap you in our hearts and offer you our support in these most heart shattering of times. To all who have been affected by this tragedy, we walk with you in your sorrow. “Chace, seek out a basketball court, lit up by the stars and keep shooting those hoops!” Image credits: Twitter @MonteBovill - ABC News Tasmania

Legal

Heartbreaking detail as mother of jumping castle victim speaks

The mother of one of the children who died in the jumping castle tragedy has revealed that she has been separated from her son for almost a year because of border closures. Miranda McLaughlin, mother of 11-year-old Peter Dodt who tragically died in <a rel="noopener" href="https://oversixty.com.au/news/news/children-killed-in-hillcrest-tragedy-identified-amid-overwhelming-support" target="_blank">last week’s jumping castle accident</a> at Hillcrest Primary School in Devonport, Tasmania, revealed in an interview that she was finally able to see her son and two daughters last week after almost a year apart. Ms McLaughlin travelled to Tasmania from her home in Adelaide to visit her children, who live with their father, after the state reopened its border to fully vaccinated domestic travellers. Ms McLaughlin told the Daily Mail, “Peter was full of life, always making people smile with his antics. His heart was bigger than the world. Words cannot explain what a beautiful soul he was or the loss we feel without him, forever in our hearts.” Peter was killed in the accident along with classmates Jye Sheehan, Jalailah Jayne-Maree Jones, Zane Mellor, Addison Stewart and Chace Harrison. Two children are still in hospital, while one is recovering at home. Chace passed away in hospital over the weekend, with Tasmanian Premier Peter Gutewin telling reporters, “I am certain all Tasmanians share with me a deep sadness and heartache that young Chace Harrison, another child involved in this terrible tragedy, has now passed away. “I know that our community, which is so connected, will be deeply saddened, for the family involved and indeed all the families of the now six children who have lost their lives.” Tasmania Police Commissioner Darren Hine said the investigation into the incident, conducted in conjunction with WorkSafe Tasmania, was ongoing, and would take some time. He told reporters on Sunday, “We are working tirelessly with all parties concerned to ensure the extensive investigation is completed as a matter of priority for the coroner. “Their priority will be to interview all witnesses, gather and analyse forensic evidence at all in biomedical aspects including weather patterns and conditions of the time of this incident.” Tasmanian Police have accepted an offer of help from NSW Police, and four forensic child interviewers will travel to Devonport over the coming days in order to assist in interviewing the traumatised children who were present on the day. Prime Minister Scott Morrison announced on Sunday that $800,000 will be made available for first responders and members of the community to receive trauma counselling. Over a million dollars has also been raised in the community to support those in mourning. Image: Tasmania Police

News

The one jumping castle question police refuse to answer

As the devastating news of the tragedy in a Tasmanian primary school has sent shockwaves through the country, many people are demanding answers on how such an incident could occur. When a jumping castle was swept 10 metres into the air from the ground of Hillcrest Primary School in Devonport, many children were hospitalised and six children lost their lives. The members of the school community were holding a "Big Day In" to celebrate the end of the 2021 school year, when the the jumping castle and inflatable Zorb balls were picked up by strong winds. Tasmania Police Commissioner Darren Hine and Premier Peter Gutwein fronted the media on Friday, saying the tragedy was "beyond comprehension". “What should have been a celebration for the end of the school year turned into an unfortunate tragedy for our young children at Hillcrest Primary.” While sharing their condolences to the family impacted by the tragedy, the Police Commissioner refused to answer one critical question about the events leading up to the incident. He was asked several times by multiple journalists if the jumping castle was tied to the ground before it became airborne. “Was the jumping castle tethered at all?” one journalist asked, with Commissioner Hine simply replying, “That forms part of the investigation”. “It is fair to say that those injured were inside the castle. We need to piece the movements of the individuals together so we can present a full picture to the coroner,” he added. “What was the connection with the zorb balls, were they inside the castle or outside?” another reporter asked, with Mr Hine again insisting “That will form part of the investigation”. “But my understanding is that the zorb balls were outside. But it will form part of the investigation,” he said, before being asked by yet another journalist whether all the victims were inside the castle at the same time. “Again, that forms part of the investigation,” he said. Despite not being able to share any specific details that are "a matter for the coroner", the Police Commissioner did confirm that three boys and two girls had died in the tragedy. With permission from their families, police have released the names of all six students: Addison Stewart, 11, Zane Mellor, 12, Jye Sheehan, 12, Jalailah Jayne-Maree Jones, 12, Peter Dodt, 12, and Chace Harrison, 11. “There is no doubt this incident will leave its mark and I know people are sending their thoughts and prayers from right across the country and even further afield," he said. “We will be doing everything we can to support the community through this tragedy. Police are liaising closely with the families of the children involved.” Image credits: YouTube / ABC News

News

Children killed in Hillcrest tragedy identified amid overwhelming support

Image: GoFundMe Tributes from all over the world are pouring in as people have dug deep to support the victims and their families following the horrific jumping castle tragedy in Tasmania that has killed five children and critically injured several more. Zoe Smith, who describes herself as “a local girl who grew up in Devonport”, said she started a GoFundMe fundraising page despite not knowing any of the children killed or injured. An overwhelming number of donations have been lodged so far, with more than $250,000 raised in less than 24 hours – and the total is continuing to rise quickly in the wake of such a tragic incident. Police say a “significant local wind event” contributed to the jumping castle flying more than 10 metres into the air as students from Hillcrest Primary School gathered to celebrate the end of the school year. It’s unknown at this stage how many children were on the jumping castle at the time, or how it was anchored down. Messages of condolence are flowing in for two of the students who have been identified among the dead, with separate GoFundMe pages set up for them. They were named as Grade Six students Zane and Addison. Addison’s aunt wrote that she “was always such a sweet kind, old soul.” “My niece was tragically taken in the accident at Hillcrest Primary. I’m hoping to raise some money for my brother and sister in-law to help pay for funeral costs and to pay off some bills for them while they try and navigate life without their precious daughter,” she wrote. “They have another daughter and son to take care of and I’m hoping to alleviate some of the stress of bills.” Ms Smith said set up her fundraiser because she was “moved by the tragedy” like many other Australians and wanted to do something “to support the families throughout Christmas”. “All funds will go to the families of the children who were tragically killed and injured to not only support them but provide them with much needed gifts in this time of such sadness,” she said. “All the funds will be donated to the school and the Parents and Friends committee to be distributed to the families affected!” “Any donation is much appreciated and hopefully we as the incredible community of Devonport can rally to support such deserving and hurting people,” Ms Smith said. Support has been put in place for the school community, including school counsellors and chaplains for use over the holiday period. In an interview on The Project, Mayor Annette Rockcliff said she had met the students only last week after visiting the primary school. “I did meet all of those children last week, I was in their classroom for an hour or so, so it’s tough to think about that”, she said, looking visibly upset. Police officers who responded to the scene were visible distressed by what they saw. “These children were meant to be celebrating their last day of primary school, instead we’re all mourning their loss,” Tasmania Police Commissioner Darren Hine said. “Emergency services were called to the scene around 10 am this morning after a wind gust had reportedly caused the jumping castle and inflatable zorb balls to lift into the air.” “Our thoughts are also with those emergency services personnel who attended to try and save these people’s lives,” he said. Investigations are underway into the incident, with involvement from WorkSafe Tasmania. Mr Hine said that investigation could take “quite some time”. You can donate to the GoFundMe <a href="https://www.gofundme.com/f/hillcrestprimary?utm_source=widget&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=p_cp+share-sheet">here</a>.

News

"Just shattering": Outpouring of grief after fatal primary school incident

At least five children have died after a jumping castle flew into the air at a primary school in Tasmania. The chaos unfolded around 10am on Thursday morning at the Hillcrest Primary School in Devonport on the north coast of Tasmania. The jumping castle was lifted about 10 metres into the air when a strong gust of wind came. At the time of writing it was unclear how many children were on the jumping castle at the time, but there are reports of several critical injuries, as multiple ambulances and two rescue helicopters attended the scene. “A number of the children have been taken to hospital and some are in a critical condition,” Tasmanian Police Western District Commander Debbie Williams said during a press conference on Thursday afternoon. “This is a very tragic event and our thoughts are with the family and the wider school community, and also our first responders. There is no doubt this has been a very confronting and distressing scene.” During the press conference at the school, the Police commander confirmed that two children had passed away from the devastating incident – however, follow-up reports on Thursday evening placed the figures at five confirmed fatalities, all from year 5 and year 6 at the school. “Counselling is being made available to the families affected by this in the school community along with the first responders," she said When informed of the tragedy, Prime Minister Scott Morrison said the incident was "just shattering". “It is just unthinkably heartbreaking. Young children on a fun day out, together with their families and it turns to such a horrific tragedy, at this time of year, it just breaks your heart,” he said. “And I just want to say, on behalf of all Australians – to the parents and families and friends, all who were there, to the other young children there and witnessing these events, I just pray you‘ll have great family around you and great friends and you can come through this horrific tragedy.” Image credits: ABC News

News

It’s Never Too Late To Be Bold and Chase Excitement

A seemingly nonsensical suggestion led Gail MacCallum to uproot her life and follow her dream. Some people get more averse to risk as the years go by. Not so Gail MacCallum, who at age 40 quit a secure job and left the city she had enjoyed her whole adult life in order to leap into the unknown. But she had to learn to be bold. MacCallum moved quite a bit in childhood and spent her formative years outside Canberra in a farmhouse without electricity. She read the books of animal observer Gerald Durrell and relished the freedom of the natural world. In her teens she and her family moved into the heart of inner-city Sydney, and she found she adored that too. “I was 14 and it was the perfect time. I loved the excitement of the city.” She continued to love it over the following decades as she moved through jobs including coffee-roaster and bookseller before finding her calling in book publishing and then magazines. In 2002 MacCallum and her then partner had a daughter, Amelia. They wanted to make sure that despite being a city kid Amelia had plenty of natural encounters so they sought out places to climb trees, watch lizards and spot turtles. But one day MacCallum realised her little girl was more at ease with busy streets than bushland. “When she was about seven, we were visiting a friend whose place had a beautiful lawn. Amelia called out to me from the verandah and said, ‘I can’t go into the wild!’ We decided we had to let her experience a wider world and two months later we were in a campervan heading off around Australia.” MacCallum admits she felt daunted. “I thought we’d need to know things like how to whittle your own clutch plate. I didn’t know how much it would all cost or what we’d do about money. But I thought the worst thing that would happen is we’d have an adventure and a holiday. I figured if we only make it two weeks in, so be it.” As it happened, the van they’d bought broke down just 90 minutes into the trip. But after repairs they set off again and travelled the country for six months, during which Amelia became an avid adventurer adept at digging fire pits. They returned to the city purely because the money had run out. “That trip helped me understand that success doesn’t have to be assured,” MacCallum says. “I realised that you can start something and just work it out as you go along.” Four years later she and her current partner Ian Connellan were on a brief holiday in Tasmania, enjoying the chance to get up close to wildlife including “the fluffiest wombats in the world”, when they ran into some friends-of-friends, soon to move interstate, who asked them to dinner. The next day, recalls MacCallum, “They said, ‘We think you should buy our house.’” With no intention of uprooting their lives she and Connellan thought this was “entirely ridiculous”, yet they got so excited talking about the possibilities such a move might present they missed their plane home. “We stayed at a hotel that night, woke up the next morning and said, ‘Let’s give it a go.’” They resigned their publishing jobs and in January 2013 moved to Hobart to start not just a new life but a new business. Individually and together, both are intrepid, independent travellers who had spent time with scientists and conservationists working in various remote spots around the world, including Papua New Guinea and the Galapagos Islands. They wondered if they could make a living supporting such work by helping others to experience those unique places for themselves. The two decided to set up a company that specialised in organising trips to places where important scientific and environmental research was taking place. Naming the new company Curious Traveller, they began taking paying customers to remote locations including Western Australia’s Kimberley region and islands off South America. “For us the travel business comes out of a love of science,” MacCallum explains. “It works brilliantly. Scientists get helpers and funding. Guests get to see what scientists do and how the world is changing because of it. They leave excited and inspired, having had an awesome experience in a place they otherwise might never have seen.” Two-and-a-half years in, the pair still have to supplement their incomes with some freelance writing and editing, but the business is growing and within five years they hope to be helping fund half a dozen research projects. It’s a big task. “Some days we think it would be great to turn off and have making it all work become someone else’s problem,” MacCallum says, “but when we see the wonder on the face of a person who is experiencing somewhere like the Galapagos for the first time we know we’re living a fabulous, lucky life.” <img style="width: 500px; height: 281.3411078717201px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7844052/follow-yr-dream-2-um.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/5f0c645b37b24c14b8304fa17e82ae63" /> The Expert View The type of business MacCallum started, which aims to do good as well as provide a living, is known as social enterprise. Celia Hodson is CEO of an institution specially created to give such people the business savvy they’ll need to survive – the School for Social Entrepreneurs. The desire to create a business with broader aims than just making money is gaining ground. “When we used to put a call-out for people who thought they had an amazing social enterprise idea we’d have maybe 20 applying.” says Hodson. “Now we get 120.” Some leap straight in, but most make the transition while establishing the business: “Typically they taper off their paid employment as their idea starts to gather speed.” The rewards are great, but it’s important to be realistic. “We sometimes ask people who come to us, ‘Where in your cash-flow is your salary?’ They’ll say, ‘Oh I don’t need money.’ Yes, social impact is what it’s about but to make it sustainable you need to ask yourself, ‘Is it going to pay me a salary?’ And you need to think about how to measure the difference you’re hoping to make.” This article originally appeared on <a href="https://www.readersdigest.com.au/true-stories-lifestyle/inspirational/Never-Too-Late-To-Be-Bold">Reader’s Digest</a>

Domestic Travel

“Incredibly rare” find leaves historians awestruck

Speaking to the <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.abc.net.au/news/2020-08-20/rococo-wallpaper-uncovered-in-historic-tasmanian-house/12567422" target="_blank">ABC</a>, historians have been left dumbfounded after finding a beautifully preserved and rare type of rococo wallpaper, along with a child’s drawing, hidden behind a cupboard in a Tasmanian property for more than 150 years. The owners of Jordan House in the southern Tasmanian town of Broadmarsh recently uncovered the section of wallpaper and a sketch of a coastal town while renovating. The rococo wallpaper has been called "incredibly rare" and Southern Midlands Council Heritage Projects Officer Alan Townsend said the find was significant. “Rococo wallpaper was big in the 18th century,” he told the ABC. “It’s full of shapes like scrolls and seashell, really over the top and curvaceous “This find is amazing because it's incredibly high quality.” After estimating the wallpaper’s installation in around 1850, soon after the time of the building’s construction Mr Townsend said, “We know the reason the paper has survived is because sometime in the 1870s, a set of matching built-in cupboards were put in, and they covered up the wallpaper. “Sometime later, someone has come along and done what everyone did, which is steam everything off the walls.” Mr Townsend put the odds of finding that particular wallpaper in Tasmania at “astronomical” – before adding that it was the child’s drawing discovered beneath the wallpaper that made the find all the more special. <img style="width: 500px; height: 281.25px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7837471/wallpaper2.jpg" alt="IMAGE / Natalie Geard" data-udi="umb://media/49da371b359e4f5497ed541894291a4a" /> “It just puts you into the outer stratosphere in terms of likelihood It looks to me like a child's drawing of a wall harbour, which are of course common on the coast of England. “I've never seen anything like this in Tasmania before.” The owner of the property, Ben Geard, is currently looking at options for preserving and showcasing the rare find. IMAGES: Natalie Geard

Home & Garden

Massive echidna survives being clipped by a car

A massive Tasmanian echidna who was clipped by a car has been treated and released. The egg-laying mammal, named Eleanor, was brought into Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary in Hobart after being clipped on the road. Staff at the sanctuary said the female echidna had a couple of minor bruises from the incident. “Echidnas do pretty well,” Bonorong Sanctuary owner Greg Irons told <a href="https://www.9news.com.au/national/animals-overweight-echinda-tasmania-clipped-by-car/1461bf37-612d-42dc-b6e4-3f5dfff7f18c">nine.com.au</a>. “We do get a lot of them. A lot of dog attacks. Not as many hit by cars.” <iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FBonorong%2Fphotos%2Fa.254440471240488%2F3694623757222125%2F%3Ftype%3D3&width=500" width="500" height="654" style="border: none; overflow: hidden;" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowtransparency="true" allow="encrypted-media"></iframe> Irons said she was the largest echidna he had ever seen, weighing 4.7kg. According to the <a href="https://dpipwe.tas.gov.au/wildlife-management/fauna-of-tasmania/mammals/echidnas-and-platypus/short-beaked-echidna">Tasmanian government</a>, short-beaked echidnas generally grow up to 45cm in length and 5kg in weigh.

Family & Pets

Surprise Aussie destination makes National Geographic’s “most exciting” destinations to visit in 2020

National Geographic has surprised and delighted many by including another region in Australia on their “<a href="https://www.nationalgeographic.com/travel/features/best-trips-2020/">best trips to take in 2020</a>” list. Usually, it’s expected that cities like Sydney, Melbourne or even the Gold Coast appear on these lists, but National Geographic included the region of Tasmania. Tasmania came in at number 16 on the list of 25, as the destination has quickly become a hotspot for domestic and international travellers. <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/B5Pf8LQgkYk/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="12"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"></div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/B5Pf8LQgkYk/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank">A post shared by Discover Tasmania (@tasmania)</a> on Nov 24, 2019 at 12:53am PST </div> </blockquote> The 2019 figures indicate that the region has experienced the biggest growth in international visitors in the country. The latest figures released from Tourism Research Australia showed that 307,000 international visitors explored Tasmania in the 12 months to September last year. This is a 15 per cent increase on the previous 12 months. Federal Tourism Minister Simon Birmingham said to the <a href="https://www.abc.net.au/news/2019-01-09/tasmania-tourism-boom-driven-by-chinese-tourists-report-says/10701274">ABC</a> that the growth has largely been driven by visitors from China. “Part of the lift in Tasmanian tourism can be attributed to (having a) high profile in China, associated with President (Xi Jinping’s) visit to Tasmania over the last couple of years,” he said. “That just shows how every little thing helps in terms of growing tourism.” However, Luke Martin from the Tourism Industry Council in Tasmania has said that the boom is putting pressure on the environment. <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/B4y2iV-APky/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="12"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"></div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/B4y2iV-APky/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank">A post shared by Discover Tasmania (@tasmania)</a> on Nov 12, 2019 at 9:52pm PST </div> </blockquote> "Those areas are jewels for Tasmania and Australia … frankly they haven't had the investment they should over time," he said. "We're seeing about $80 million spent on Cradle Mountain. "That will help with conservation challenges and its role of key tourism icon in northern Tasmania," he explained. "Sustainable tourism is the discussion topic for the next couple of years. "We've got more lead time than other countries, so we need to work out how to protect and provide access."

Domestic Travel

This island off an island is Australia’s best kept secret

This island is one of the more exclusive islands within Australia, as it’s hidden just off the south coast of Tasmania. Here lies Satellite Island, which is a little further north from Bruny Island. There’s not a lot on the 34-hectare island apart from a luxury summer house on the hill, a boathouse on the jetty and some deer. However, Satellite Island has gained a cult following from travellers across the world due to the exclusivity of the small island. The private island’s owners only rent out accommodation to those who book the entire island. It costs two guests $1950 per night to stay on the island with each additional guest paying $300 a night. <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/BYVdHQShbVg/" data-instgrm-version="12"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"></div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <a style="color: #000; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BYVdHQShbVg/" target="_blank">| very excited to welcome these two back to the island for their WILD cookbook island adventure workshop | 📷by @luisabrimble #sarahglovercookbook #outdoorcooking #satelliteisland</a> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;">A post shared by <a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/satelliteisland/" target="_blank"> SATELLITE ISLAND</a> (@satelliteisland) on Aug 28, 2017 at 4:08am PDT </div> </blockquote> However, once you pay that price, you’re treated with private access to the whole island. If things go wrong, there’s a caretaker keeping a low profile nearby if those on the island need anything. <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/Be8v3ABhn1j/" data-instgrm-version="12"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"></div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <a style="color: #000; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Be8v3ABhn1j/" target="_blank">‘waking up not here tomorrow is going to hurt...last night we slept with the roller door open and watched a huge golden moon rise up over Bruny, glittering on the sea!! little island you wrangle magic like no other’ regram from the gorgeous @tess.newman.morris #satelliteisland #island #islandbedroom #sea #privateisland #discovertasmania #tasmania</a> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;">A post shared by <a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/satelliteisland/" target="_blank"> SATELLITE ISLAND</a> (@satelliteisland) on Feb 8, 2018 at 12:30pm PST </div> </blockquote> Guests can stay in the three bedroom summer house or the boathouse where they can sea-gaze from bed. There’s also a fully kitted out glamping tent that overlooks the cliff as another sleeping option. The pantry is fully stocked and there’s an organic herb and vegetable garden and orchard. There are also chickens that provide those just-laid eggs for breakfast. If you get tired of fresh eggs, sea urchins, abalone and mussels are able to be picked straight from the water. There is also a range of entertainment options on board, including kayaks, stand-up paddle boards, fishing gear and yoga mats. It’s also the perfect spot for stargazing. <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/BhiypZYlF0d/" data-instgrm-version="12"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"></div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <a style="color: #000; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BhiypZYlF0d/" target="_blank">| I never tire of the island’s night sky | and seeing the Southern Lights Aurora Australis from Last Glimpse Point at the island’s end was unforgettable and a life memory | thank you little island ! | the French discovered satellite Island in 1792 and used it as an observatory for the night sky | #satelliteisland #tasmania #discovertasmania #sky #seeaustralia #southernlights #aurora #auroraaustralis 📷 @luke.a.mccauley</a> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;">A post shared by <a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/satelliteisland/" target="_blank"> SATELLITE ISLAND</a> (@satelliteisland) on Apr 14, 2018 at 1:08am PDT </div> </blockquote> As the island was a makeshift observatory for French explorer Bruni D’Entrecasteaux, you’ll soon find out why the explorer was so keen to see the stars at night. The island was formerly a getaway for writer and painter Ian Alstergren, who used it as a private retreat. The new owners, who are relatives of Alstergren, have turned it into a hideaway for guests six years ago.

Domestic Travel

How to see Hobart on any budget

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

International Travel

Beautiful Bruny will blow you away

Head south from Bruny Island and the next stop is Antarctica. This spectacular Tasmanian wilderness has an incredible food culture and link to Tasmania’s dark history. Bruny Island is actually two islands – North and South Island which are separated by a narrow isthmus called “The Neck”. Don’t be tempted to think you can come here on a day trip. The islands are nearly 100km long. You will need at least a few days to uncover the island’s secrets. Both islands are a farmer’s paradise with rich soil producing berries, cheese, whisky and wine. The ocean also produces delicious oysters. Bruny’s South Island is hilly, timbered, contains large pockets of rainforest. This is where you will find South Bruny Lighthouse, the second-oldest and longest continually staffed lighthouse in Australia, and the townships of Adventure Bay, Alonnah and Lunawanna. <img style="width: 500px; height: 281.25px; display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7823031/adventure-bay-tasmania.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/b2e3ea0156754a1296838bee28461c23" /> Adventure Bay, Bruny Island The highlight of the South Island has to be South Bruny National Park, which has towering cliffs overlooking white sandy beaches, coastal heathland and underwater kelp gardens. It’s also home to several endangered plants and animals including the hooded plover, swift parrot, ground parrot, and forty-spotted pardalote. The coast is dotted with mutton bird (short-tail shearwater) and penguin rookeries. Other residents include echidnas, possums, pademelons, and wallabies. Bruny Island was once home to the Nuenonne people. Remnants of their settlements can still be seen on the South Island. The most famous resident was the Indigenous Australian Truganini, often incorrectly known as the last Indigenous Tasmanian. She was the daughter of the chief Mangana and is believed to have been born sometime around 1812. After the arrival of the Europeans, Truganini’s life of searching for shellfish and hunting in the bush changed forever. By 1829, her mother had been killed by sailors, her uncle shot by a soldier, her sister abducted by sealers, and her fiancé murdered by timber-getters. Truganini died in Hobart in 1874. Her body was on display in the Tasmanian museum until 1951. In 1976, more than a century after she died, the Tasmanian Aboriginal Community requested that she be cremated and her ashes scattered in the D’Entrecasteaux Channel near her homeland. The request was granted. Truganini Lookout at The Neck offers some of the best views on the island, a fitting tribute to the Indigenous elder whose life was turned upside down by European settlement. The island also has a fascinating European history. It was partly charted by Abel Tasman in 1642. Tasman sailed the Zeehan and Heenskerck along the coast and briefly entered Adventure Bay but was prevented from landing due to gale force winds. Captain Tobias Furneaux visited with Captain James Cook in 1773. Cook was sailing the HMS Resolution and Furneax the HMS Adventure – after which Adenvture bay was named. The sailors entered the bay replenish their water and wood supplies. Four years later, in 1777, Cook returned to Bruny on the HMS Bounty with a botanist named Nelson. The pair were said to have planted some seeds which they had brought with them from the Cape of Good Hope. In 1792, Captain Bligh arrived in Bruny Island and found an apple tree had grown from one of the seeds. According to local legend, this is how the apple isle first got its nickname. Evidence of whaling stations can still be seen on the islands particularly around Grass Point. <img style="width: 500px; height: 281.25px; display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7823035/tasmania.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/59901cda100e4d15841d26de5881c842" /> Grass Point, Bruny Island The name Bruny Island comes from French explorer Bruni D’Entrecasteaux. Originally Bruni, the spelling was changed to Bruny in 1918. The Indigenous name for the islands was Lunawanna-alonna – which is reflected in the names given to the two towns on the South Island. Access to the island is by vehicular ferry departing from Kettering. The trip takes 15 minutes and arrives at Roberts Point on North Bruny. The island has a population of around 620 and is deceptively large – being about 100 kilometres in length. What can you do there? The island has several spectacular walks. The challenging three-hour Fluted Cape walk from East Cove carpark to Grass Point offers stunning coastal views and the opportunity to spot White Breasted Sea Eagles. For a shorter, easier option, try the Clennett’s Top Mill Site. This 30 minute walk passes through rainforest on the western side of Coolangatta Road to an old mill where you can see ancient machinery. One of the best things to do is to eat. Bruny Island Tourism have a list of all the delicious options on the islands including Bruny Island House of Whisky, the Get Shucked Oyster Farm and the Bruny Island Cheese Company. Have you been to Bruny? What was it like? Let us know in the comments! Written by Alison Godfrey. Republished with permission of <a href="https://www.mydiscoveries.com.au/stories/why-you-should-go-to-bruny-island-in-tasmania/">MyDiscoveries</a>.

International Travel

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Australia’s ‘most isolated’ property could be yours

About 200 dead whales have been towed out to sea off Tasmania – and what happens next is a true marvel of nature