An ABC Tassiecast episode is questioning if women are being “gaslit” by the state’s health system, reports ABC News. The program explores the experiences of women whose health concerns, from contraceptive side effects to fertility issues, have allegedly been dismissed or downplayed by medical professionals, leading them to feel unheard and question their own judgement. This follows broader national conversations and studies into “medical gaslighting,” where patients’ symptoms, particularly women’s, are sometimes inappropriately attributed to psychological rather than physical causes.
The Tasmanian Government has launched Building Tasmania, a new central agency tasked with overseeing major infrastructure projects across the state, according to a government press release. Minister for Infrastructure Kerry Vincent stated the new body will centralise expertise to manage complex projects like homes, roads, and schools, aiming to reduce duplication, streamline decision-making, and provide a clearer pipeline of work for local industry. The government says the agency will ensure better coordination and accountability for delivering infrastructure for future generations.
Firmus Technologies has defended its plans for three large-scale data centres in northern Tasmania amid growing community concerns over the projects’ energy and water consumption, as reported by Pulse Tasmania. At a public meeting, residents questioned the economic benefits versus the resource demands of the facilities planned for St Leonards, Bell Bay, and Wesley Vale. Company executives told ABC Radio the St Leonards site would use less water than a typical restaurant and that the projects would create ongoing jobs, while also funding a new fibre optic cable to the mainland to significantly boost Tasmania’s connectivity.
Wildlife authorities are urging the public to keep their distance from Neil, the large southern elephant seal who has become a local celebrity, reports The Guardian. Large crowds have gathered to see the 1,000kg animal, with some people getting as close as 20 metres for photos, putting themselves and the seal at risk. The Department of Natural Resources and Environment Tasmania has warned that if risky public behaviour leads to an unmanageable safety concern, the animal could potentially have to be euthanised, a situation they are keen to avoid.
Tasmanian pubs and clubs will be permitted to stay open all night for the Socceroos’ World Cup match against Egypt, which kicks off at 4am local time on Saturday, reports Pulse Tasmania. Premier Jeremy Rockliff confirmed that venues with general or club licences can trade overnight to broadcast the game. The move is intended to allow the community to rally together and support the national team on the world stage, while also providing a boost for hospitality businesses across the state.
Police and farmers are concerned about ongoing livestock theft on the East Coast, according to Tasmanian Country. In one recent case, eight Angus cattle worth around $17,000 were reported stolen from a property near St Marys in three separate incidents between January and June. Tasmania Police note that rural properties can be targeted due to their isolation and are urging farmers and residents to maintain contact with neighbours and report any suspicious activity, such as unfamiliar vehicles or unusual stock movements.