Latest news with #Tasmanians
The Advertiser
21 hours ago
- Automotive
- The Advertiser
Vintage car first to roll on $786 million bridge
A red Roadster containing two women in their 90s was officially the first car to cross a new bridge dubbed one state's biggest-ever transport project. The replacement $786 million Bridgewater Bridge, over the River Derwent north of Hobart, was opened at a ceremony attended by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on Sunday. Margaret McMaster and Barbara Jones were given the honour of unveiling a plaque and taking the maiden journey in a 1910 vintage vehicle. Both women had attended the opening of the bridge's predecessor in 1946 - a build interrupted by WWII. The new 1.2km bridge, which will be open to traffic on Monday, has four lanes compared to the previous crossing's two and a shared walking and bike path. Since construction began in October 2022, the project has supported around 1000 jobs. "It is a critical day for Tasmania and one people will remember. A bridge connects people and it connects communities," Mr Albanese said. The first bridge at Bridgewater was built in 1849 and there have been five bridges in total at the site. The most recent version, which is next to its new replacement, contains a lifting section the largest of its kind in Australia which is operated by a small control house. The federal government contributed $629 million towards the new bridge, with the state government spending $157 million. It is expected to ease bottlenecks and create more reliable travel times. Thousands of people braved chilly winds on Sunday to walk across the structure as part of a community event involving mascots and a marching band. "This is a bridge built by Tasmanians for Tasmanians, and is something that everyone in the state can be proud of," Premier Jeremy Rockliff said. "The Bridgewater Bridge has been talked about for decades, but together with every person involved in this project we have delivered it." A red Roadster containing two women in their 90s was officially the first car to cross a new bridge dubbed one state's biggest-ever transport project. The replacement $786 million Bridgewater Bridge, over the River Derwent north of Hobart, was opened at a ceremony attended by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on Sunday. Margaret McMaster and Barbara Jones were given the honour of unveiling a plaque and taking the maiden journey in a 1910 vintage vehicle. Both women had attended the opening of the bridge's predecessor in 1946 - a build interrupted by WWII. The new 1.2km bridge, which will be open to traffic on Monday, has four lanes compared to the previous crossing's two and a shared walking and bike path. Since construction began in October 2022, the project has supported around 1000 jobs. "It is a critical day for Tasmania and one people will remember. A bridge connects people and it connects communities," Mr Albanese said. The first bridge at Bridgewater was built in 1849 and there have been five bridges in total at the site. The most recent version, which is next to its new replacement, contains a lifting section the largest of its kind in Australia which is operated by a small control house. The federal government contributed $629 million towards the new bridge, with the state government spending $157 million. It is expected to ease bottlenecks and create more reliable travel times. Thousands of people braved chilly winds on Sunday to walk across the structure as part of a community event involving mascots and a marching band. "This is a bridge built by Tasmanians for Tasmanians, and is something that everyone in the state can be proud of," Premier Jeremy Rockliff said. "The Bridgewater Bridge has been talked about for decades, but together with every person involved in this project we have delivered it." A red Roadster containing two women in their 90s was officially the first car to cross a new bridge dubbed one state's biggest-ever transport project. The replacement $786 million Bridgewater Bridge, over the River Derwent north of Hobart, was opened at a ceremony attended by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on Sunday. Margaret McMaster and Barbara Jones were given the honour of unveiling a plaque and taking the maiden journey in a 1910 vintage vehicle. Both women had attended the opening of the bridge's predecessor in 1946 - a build interrupted by WWII. The new 1.2km bridge, which will be open to traffic on Monday, has four lanes compared to the previous crossing's two and a shared walking and bike path. Since construction began in October 2022, the project has supported around 1000 jobs. "It is a critical day for Tasmania and one people will remember. A bridge connects people and it connects communities," Mr Albanese said. The first bridge at Bridgewater was built in 1849 and there have been five bridges in total at the site. The most recent version, which is next to its new replacement, contains a lifting section the largest of its kind in Australia which is operated by a small control house. The federal government contributed $629 million towards the new bridge, with the state government spending $157 million. It is expected to ease bottlenecks and create more reliable travel times. Thousands of people braved chilly winds on Sunday to walk across the structure as part of a community event involving mascots and a marching band. "This is a bridge built by Tasmanians for Tasmanians, and is something that everyone in the state can be proud of," Premier Jeremy Rockliff said. "The Bridgewater Bridge has been talked about for decades, but together with every person involved in this project we have delivered it." A red Roadster containing two women in their 90s was officially the first car to cross a new bridge dubbed one state's biggest-ever transport project. The replacement $786 million Bridgewater Bridge, over the River Derwent north of Hobart, was opened at a ceremony attended by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on Sunday. Margaret McMaster and Barbara Jones were given the honour of unveiling a plaque and taking the maiden journey in a 1910 vintage vehicle. Both women had attended the opening of the bridge's predecessor in 1946 - a build interrupted by WWII. The new 1.2km bridge, which will be open to traffic on Monday, has four lanes compared to the previous crossing's two and a shared walking and bike path. Since construction began in October 2022, the project has supported around 1000 jobs. "It is a critical day for Tasmania and one people will remember. A bridge connects people and it connects communities," Mr Albanese said. The first bridge at Bridgewater was built in 1849 and there have been five bridges in total at the site. The most recent version, which is next to its new replacement, contains a lifting section the largest of its kind in Australia which is operated by a small control house. The federal government contributed $629 million towards the new bridge, with the state government spending $157 million. It is expected to ease bottlenecks and create more reliable travel times. Thousands of people braved chilly winds on Sunday to walk across the structure as part of a community event involving mascots and a marching band. "This is a bridge built by Tasmanians for Tasmanians, and is something that everyone in the state can be proud of," Premier Jeremy Rockliff said. "The Bridgewater Bridge has been talked about for decades, but together with every person involved in this project we have delivered it."
Perth Now
a day ago
- Automotive
- Perth Now
Vintage car first to roll on $786 million bridge
A red Roadster containing two women in their 90s was officially the first car to cross a new bridge dubbed one state's biggest-ever transport project. The replacement $786 million Bridgewater Bridge, over the River Derwent north of Hobart, was opened at a ceremony attended by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on Sunday. Margaret McMaster and Barbara Jones were given the honour of unveiling a plaque and taking the maiden journey in a 1910 vintage vehicle. Both women had attended the opening of the bridge's predecessor in 1946 - a build interrupted by WWII. The new 1.2km bridge, which will be open to traffic on Monday, has four lanes compared to the previous crossing's two and a shared walking and bike path. Since construction began in October 2022, the project has supported around 1000 jobs. "It is a critical day for Tasmania and one people will remember. A bridge connects people and it connects communities," Mr Albanese said. The first bridge at Bridgewater was built in 1849 and there have been five bridges in total at the site. The most recent version, which is next to its new replacement, contains a lifting section the largest of its kind in Australia which is operated by a small control house. The federal government contributed $629 million towards the new bridge, with the state government spending $157 million. It is expected to ease bottlenecks and create more reliable travel times. Thousands of people braved chilly winds on Sunday to walk across the structure as part of a community event involving mascots and a marching band. "This is a bridge built by Tasmanians for Tasmanians, and is something that everyone in the state can be proud of," Premier Jeremy Rockliff said. "The Bridgewater Bridge has been talked about for decades, but together with every person involved in this project we have delivered it."
7NEWS
a day ago
- 7NEWS
Exploring Tasmania by air meant facing my biggest fear, and loving it
As I watched the pilot take the doors off the red four-door helicopter on a crisp, clear May morning in Tasmania, a part of me still didn't believe I would be getting in — let alone flying in — the embodiment of one of my greatest fears. 'An aircon will cost you $40,000, or you can just take the doors off,' pilot Greg Ross joked. Greg and his wife Gabby live in the idyllic Friendly Beaches within the Freycinet National Park on the island state's east coast. I'm welcomed to their home by their teenage son and a big, friendly golden retriever named Dash. Warmed by a wood fire burner, the cabin is dotted with family photos and a telescope perfect for star-gazing in the dark skies that are typical of Tasmania. The home also serves as the headquarters of their family-operated aviation company, Freycinet Air Tasmania. After introductions, Greg excitedly discusses the upcoming 25-minute doors-off experience while I try to distract myself from the pit forming in my stomach. The moment I change my mind and agree to brave my fears was not due to a burst of adrenalin or even FOMO. It was the quiet confidence of Gabby in her husband's 25 years of experience, his abilities as a pilot, and in her surety in him to bring us home safely. It was also thanks to how comfortable and calm I felt in their space. Heart racing, I donned a beanie to brace against the wind and buckled up for what was to become one of the most unforgettable experiences of my life. We gained altitude, heading out over the turquoise waters of Wineglass Bay, the dramatic pink granite peaks of The Hazards coming into view, before following long stretches of pristine white beaches more common on the Gold Coast. Escaping the summer crowds and opting instead for the 'clear, crisp skies' of the cooler months makes for some of the best flying experiences, according to Greg. 'The lower sun makes it feel like a sunrise or sunset throughout the whole day. The reflections on the pink granite showcase the best colours during this time of year,' he said. After turning around and heading back towards home, Greg spots a whale in the water. Although it takes us over our 25-minute time limit, he doesn't want us to miss the moment and slowly circles to give us the best view of one of the world's largest mammals making its way north on migration. Tourism Tasmania's CEO Sarah Clark said Australia's most southerly state is no ordinary place. And Tasmanians are no ordinary people. I couldn't help but agree, and heading down to the Apple Isle during the traditionally quieter travel periods between May and August is when the region truly comes alive. Back on solid ground, Greg and Gabby wave me off as I leave, setting off on a high to enjoy a well-deserved tasting at Waubs Harbour Whisky in Bicheno. 'Did that really just happen?' I thought as I swipe through photos on my phone, unable to wipe the smile off my face. I call my family to crow over my victory, my face flush with excitement — or maybe whisky. Tasmania in the off-season Whether you're a nature enthusiast, a photography buff, enjoy a full-bodied wine or a freshly shucked Tasmanian oyster, it is as easy as stepping off the plane and breathing the air down here to become a winter convert. What to do: Walk a wombat at East Coast Nature world Roast marshmallows on vines and learn how to shuck fresh oysters at Devil's Corner at Apslawn Take to the skies for a doors-off experience with Freycinet Air Tasmania What to eat and drink: Whisky tasting at Waubs Harbour Whisky in Bicheno Devour a famous lobster roll at the Lobster Shack Lunch and wine tasting at Frogmore Creek Winery in Cambridge Where to stay: Spot the Aurora from the decks of your private cabin at the Piermont Retreat in Swansea. Cozy up with incredible views at Freycinet Lodge in Coles Bay Enjoy a touch of luxury at The Tasman Hotel in Hobart The writer travelled to Tasmania as a guest of Tourism Tasmania.
Perth Now
3 days ago
- Business
- Perth Now
Unions flag walk offs over 'Musk-like' saving measures
Unions could take industrial action against flagged privatisations and "Elon Musk-like" public service cuts contained in a Liberal state budget. Tasmania's government is investigating whether eight government-owned entities, including bus operator Metro and power provider TasNetworks, should be sold. The Liberals, who inherited no debt when they came to power in 2014, will more than double debt to almost $10.8 billion by 2028/29. Interest repayments debt is expected to rise to almost $650 million a year by 2028/29, according to Thursday's budget. The government wants to cut 2500 state service jobs by 2033 and has set up an "efficiency unit" to find public sector savings of $150 million a year. "The irony of the government setting up a new team to cut waste is not lost on us," Unions Tasmania secretary Jessica Munday said on Friday. "It seems like the government has ripped off Elon Musk and brought it to Tasmania." Mr Musk was in charge of a body tasked with reducing spending as part of US President Donald Trump's government. Ms Munday said cuts of 2500 would have a big impact on services in a state of Tasmania's size. She didn't rule out protest strikes. "We will do whatever is necessary to protect not only members' jobs but defend services provided to the community," she said. Treasurer Guy Barnett says his budget charts a sensible path to surplus, despite no surpluses being contained across four years of forward estimates. "We are very focused on delivering frontline services to Tasmania that need it. We have a 12 per cent increase in health funding," he told reporters. Mr Barnett also spruiked $9.9 billion in education spending and record cost-of-living support. Head of social services body TasCOSS, Adrienne Picone, said the Liberals had lost sight of real issues in pursuit of a $945 million new Hobart stadium. "A new stadium won't help Tasmanians living on low incomes feed their family and get their foot into the housing market," she said. "We're also concerned the level of debt we're taking on to fund infrastructure projects is severely impacting the funding available to deliver essential services. "We are aware of many community services organisations who will be cutting hours, cutting staff, changing services delivery and cutting services completely." Mr Barnett said the government would have more to say in coming months about potential state-owned business sales, following a review by economist Saul Eslake. The government has taken the sale of some businesses, including Bass Strait ferry operator TT-Line, off the table.
West Australian
4 days ago
- Politics
- West Australian
Pauline Hanson's daughter Lee Hanson vows political comeback after failed Senate tilt
The daughter of One Nation leader Pauline Hanson and failed senate contender Lee Hanson has vowed to return to politics after she just missed out on a Senate spot. After weeks of counting, the Australian Electoral Commission confirmed the six senate vacancies were won by Labor's Carol Brown and Richard Dowling, Greens senator Nick McKim, Liberal senators Claire Chandler and Richard Colbeck, as well as firebrand senator Jacqui Lambie. Despite early fears that Ms Hanson could topple Senator Lambie, the first-time contender came in seventh and fell short of a seat. Speaking to NewsWire on Wednesday, Ms Hanson said that despite only running a four-week campaign, she was able to amass a 'phenomenal' amount of support, and vowed a return to politics. 'I'm only getting started … There's such a need for effective change and adequate representation in parliament,' she said. 'I've got three years now to campaign if I choose to run in the next federal election … I'll continue to work with them regardless, and do what I can to support them regardless of holding a federal position or not.' Ms Hanson, who resigned from a senior role with Hydro Tasmania to run in the federal election, wouldn't rule out becoming a political staffer for One Nation, stating she was 'keeping all options open'. 'I don't know what the future is going to hold now. They're all decisions I'll need to make over the coming weeks and months,' she said. Ms Hanson said her four-week campaign had revealed people had several 'misconceptions' about One Nation, specially that the party was only 'Queensland relevant'. 'We do look at localised issues and advocate for localised issues as well as common national stances as well,' she said. 'The ones that typically do get a run in the media are immigration and things ... but if you look at the solutions and the policy offerings of One Nation, they're far (reaching).' She also accused media of pitting her against Senator Lambie, stating comments from Senator Hanson stating that she wants 'to see her (Senator Lambie) gone' were made through her mother's 'own working experience with Jacqui in the Senate'. 'That's the spin that they (the media) pushed … even though it was never (part of) any agenda or any message I tried to put out in any way, shape or form,' she said. While Ms Hanson said she had never had any contact with or spoken to Senator Lambie, she wished her well and called on her to '(listen) to the 'feedback she's received through the election period'. 'I did hear that many Tasmanians did not feel that Jacqui was representing them adequately, and those who did vote for me wanted a change,' she said. 'There's number of reasons why they didn't feel she was representing them, I know, specifically in the salmon industry.' Following confirmation of the Senate result, Senator Lambie, who has previously said this six-year term would be her last, vowed to fight for Tasmanian people 'doing it tough'. 'Interest rates are coming down and that's good, but for many Tasmanian families it will barely touch the sides,' she said. 'I want to ensure the recommendations from the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide are implemented properly and that they make a real difference to the lives of veterans and their families.' Following the federal election, Labor now holds four of the 12 Tasmanian Senate positions, while the Liberals have four. The Greens hold two seats, with the remaining spots held by independent Tammy Tyrell and Senator Lambie.
