According to ABC News, the Victorian government, after ending native forest logging, is now effectively subsidising the industry in Tasmania. The Victorian government is a part-owner of a sawmill that processes Tasmanian native timber, which is transported to Victoria using a federally subsidised freight scheme. Conservationists argue this undermines Victoria’s policy, while the Tasmanian forestry industry says it is supporting jobs and providing essential resources.
The Tasmanian Government has delivered its “Third 100 Day Delivery report,” highlighting progress on cost-of-living measures, housing, and health infrastructure, reports Mirage News. Premier Jeremy Rockliff pointed to the completion of the $23.1 million redevelopment of Hobart City High School and the opening of the Northern Suburbs Community Recreation Hub as key achievements. The government also noted the extension of free public transport for another year.
A climate change recording device, known as “Earth’s Black Box,” is scheduled to be installed near Queenstown on the West Coast in December, according to Madhyamam. The 16-metre-long steel structure, powered by solar panels, will continuously collect and store climate-related data to create a permanent record of humanity’s response to the climate crisis for future generations. The project was first announced in 2021.
On the Eastern Shore, the City of Clarence has opened a new off-lead dog park in Cambridge, the Eastern Shore Sun reports. The new park provides a dedicated space for local dog owners. In other local news, The Hobart Magazine reports that the Clarence City Council is dealing with illegal tree cutting in several bushland reserves, including Pilcher’s Hill Reserve, and is asking the public to report suspicious activity to the police.
In Kingborough, a new rip warning sign has been installed at the northern end of Blackmans Bay Beach to improve swimmer safety, according to The Hobart Magazine. The council worked with Surf Life Saving Tasmania to place the sign, which warns of potential rip currents, a common hazard on Australian beaches.