Media Releases
Editor
18.06.10 12:00 am
MEDIA RELEASES:
Government
Greens Tasmania
Australian Greens, Bob Brown
Australian Greens, Christine Milne
Tasmanian Liberals
Tasmanian Liberals, Will Hodgman
Tasmanian Labor, David Bartlett
Federal Labor
Federal Liberal
Australian Democrats
Tasmanian Socialist Alliance
Australian Socialist Alliance
Ethics and Sustainability Party
Senator Online - Australia’s first and only internet based political party
Please Release Us: Lack of One-and-a-Half-man Band time has forced us to stop publishing many MRs sent. If you have regular MRs and want to add your link to the list above, send ‘em in …
Politics | MediaGrant Broadcasters acquire new commercial radio licence in Launceston
Jared Henningsen Network Integration & Promotions Manager Tasmanian Broadcasters
01.09.10 7:17 pm
Download a Media Release outlining the purchase of a new commercial radio licence in Launceston, Tasmania by Grant Broadcasters (pending approval):
TAS_BR_INTG_PRNL_010910.pdf
ADVOCATES SUPPORT WILKIE’S CALL FOR FREE VOTE ON MARRIAGE EQUALITY
Alex Greenwich, Australian Marriage Equality
30.08.10 10:39 am
AUSTRALIAN MARRIAGE EQUALITY
Media Release
Monday August 30th 2010
ADVOCATES SUPPORT WILKIE’S CALL FOR FREE VOTE ON MARRIAGE EQUALITY
MAJOR PARTIES AND OTHER INDEPENDENTS URGED TO FOLLOW WILKIE’S LEAD
Australian Marriage Equality (AME) has welcomed Tasmanian Independent Andrew Wilkie’s inclusion of a conscience vote on same-sex marriage on his priority list for meetings today with the leaders of both major parties, and has called on both major parties to grant the request.
AME National Convener, Alex Greenwich, said Mr Wilkie is showing he is a true independent by promoting more open and transparent debate on a key social issue.
“During the election campaign marriage equality was repeatedly raised in public forums by ordinary Australians who are keen to discuss it, but to have a corresponding debate in Parliament will require a conscience vote.”
“It is uncertain if marriage equality would be achieved with a conscience vote, but it is certain that without a conscience vote the issue will not even be properly debated.”
Mr Greenwich called on both major parties and the other independents to follow Mr Wilkie’s lead.
“A conscience vote will allow the large number of Labor and Liberal MPs who support equality to better represent the majority of Australians who do too.”
“If the other independents truly wish to see Parliament become more than a rubber stamp for the major parties they will also follow Mr Wilkie’s lead and start promoting a conscience vote.”
“Under Howard and Rudd, parliamentary debate on marriage equality was repeatedly shut down, but with a conscience vote we have a real chance to allow an issue that deeply affects tens of thousands of loving couples and their families to be discussed in an open and mature way”.
In 2009 Green Senator, Sarah Hanson-Young, introduced a Bill allowing same-sex marriages which was referred to a Senate committee for further consideration. But despite the inquiry receiving more submissions than any other Senate inquiry in history, including 11,000 from supports of reform, the Bill was barely debated before summarily voted down.
Politics | National | SocietyStreets Alive
26.08.10 8:13 pm
A huge street party for all! Join delegates from the 2010 National Regional Arts Conference and get Launceston hopping!
When Sun, August 29, 12:00pm – 2:30pm GMT+10:00
Where The Princess Theatre
Who (Guest list has been hidden at organizer’s request)
Good Afternoon,
I know that you may not be able to attend, but we are trying to keep as many people informed of the events of this week as we possibly can.
We would love to have as many people attending our street party as possible, so if you know of anyone else who may be interested, pass on the message.
Please find attached information regarding the Streets Alive Street Party on Sunday, kicking off at 12:30pm.
For any questions you may have about Streets Alive or related events, please visit our website,
http://www.streetsalive.com.au/
or alternately email Kim.
see tassietimes events listing ...
Arts | What's OnAmerican writer Joe Bageant speaks at Fullers Bookshop, Monday, August 30th 6pm
Fullers Bookshop
26.08.10 2:43 pm
Joe Bageant, author of Deer Hunting For Jesus and more recently Rainbow Pie; A Redneck Memoir, will be talking one of America’s most taboo subjects, social class, at Fullers Bookshop on Monday August 30 at 6pm.
Bageant, who is a cult hero amongst gonzo-journalism junkies, has written about his redneck childhood with insight and aplomb.
In Hobart for only a short time, this is a fantastic opportunity to hear one of America’s edgier commentators speaking.
Bageant spends most of his time writing from Belize and Mexico where he also sponsors small health and shelter development projects.
He has recently been interviewed for a documentary that seeks to challenge the status quo. Documentary maker, MA Littler, says “I sought out contrary opinions ranging from the far left to the far right of the political spectrum, from the spiritual to the strictly secular and from the profound to the profane.”
Books | What's OnCam Tapp
26.08.10 8:53 am
IT’S HERE !!
For a sneak preview visit http://www.camtapp.com
Personally signed copies of Cam Tapp - The Little Black Book Of Light are NOW available for pre sale at JB HiFi on line. CLICK HERE!!
This is an indi release guys and your enduring support is very very much appreciated.
Please fwd this email onto your friends and family and those that support truly independent music.
Tix to The Toff (Melbourne) Oct 16th Tickets available here… Hurry SELLING FAST…
Tix to THE VANGUARD (Sydney) November 4th are now on sale here….
Tix to The Peacock Theatre (Tas) Nov 5th and The Norfolk (Perth) Nov 26th will be at the door on the night unless advised.
A million thanks to you all for keeping the music live and alive ;)
Cam xx
TOUR DATES
Melbourne - Saturday October 16th
The Toff In Town
2/252 Swanston Street Walk Melbourne VIC
ph (03) 9639 8770
http://www.thetoffintown.com
Sydney - Thurs November 4th
The Vanguard
42 King St Newtown NSW
ph (02) 9557 7992
http://www.thevanguard.com.au
Hobart - Fri November 5th
The Peacock Theatre
Salamanca Place Hobart
http://www.salarts.org.au/Files/01032-Peacock-Theatre.asp
Perth - Fri November 26th
The Norfolk Basement Lounge
47 South Terrace Fremantle WA
http://www.norfolkhotel.com.au/
Launch of the Streets Alive 2010 Youth Arts Festival
Kim Schneiders, Executive Coordinator, Streets Alive
24.08.10 9:21 am
Media Alert
Tuesday August 24th
5:30
The Studio, Inveresk
Launch of Streets Alive Youth Festival 2010 program and National Youth Week
Who Streets Alive Youth Festival Executive Co-ordinator Kim Schneiders, and the artists involved with Streets Alive festival 2010.
What Launch of the Streets Alive 2010 Youth Arts Festival
Festival launch of art installations, including the Dino Chair and Stop Talking Sculptural Rubbish Bin including performances and dances by young artists. Keep an eye out for the umbrella momentum will be gaining speed throughout Launceston.
Also celebrating the launch of the new streetsalive.com.au website created by students in the web design class at Polytechnic.
Where The Studio, Inveresk
When Tuesday August 24th at 5:30 p.m.
Download program:
Streets_Alive_Program_2010.pdf
Sorell On Stage
24.08.10 9:13 am
Now showing in September
Now_Showing_in_September.docx
Auditions:
AUDITIONS.docx
Celebrated Photographers Support Tassie Forests Campaigners’ Legal Struggle
Will Mooney Huon Valley Environment Centre
24.08.10 8:48 am
Download: TB132.pdf
Frontline: Forests and Freedom of Speech in Tasmania. Gunns 13 Wilderness Exhibition.
Where: Sidespace Gallery, Salamanca Arts Centre, Hobart.
When: Opening Friday 27th August, 6.30 pm. Exhibition will be opened by Nick McKim, leader of the Tasmanian Greens. Exhibition runs 27th August-September 5th.
Artworks from some of Tasmania’s most renowned and respected wilderness photographers will be showcased in an exhibition to help raise awareness and funds for embattled forest campaigners facing a civil lawsuit from Gunns Limited.
Works from well known Tasmanian photographers including Peter Dombrovskis, Olegas Truchanas, Bob Brown, Rob Blakers, Wolfgang Glowacki and many more will feature in the Frontline exhibition, which will be opened by Greens Minister Nick McKim this Friday 27th August.
“This is a rare opportunity to view and purchase photographic prints from famous Tasmanian photographers such as the late Peter Dombrovskis and Olegas Truchanas, who were passionate about the protection of Tasmania’s unique environment,” said exhibition organiser and Gunns 13 defendant Will Mooney.
“The Tasmanian wilderness photography on display is world class. International recognition and awards are testament to the talent of the island’s photographers. Peter Dombrovskis’ iconic Rock Island Bend was recently named as one of the world’s top 40 nature pictures of all time by the International League of Conservation Photographers,”
Mr Mooney said.
“While the high profile Gunns 20 case was concluded last January, Gunns Limited continues to pursue 13 Tasmanian forest activists over a protest at the Triabunna wood chip mill in December 2008. Activists face the very real threat of injunctions and bankruptcy as well as the personal costs and stress of facing a multi million dollar corporation in the courts,” Mr Mooney said.
The Frontline exhibition celebrates Tasmanians’ commitment to appreciating and defending their precious ecosystems. All funds from artworks sold will contribute to help the Gunns 13 defend themselves and continue the campaign to protect Tasmania’s forests.
The Black Sassy Collective is a community collective of artisans, poets, creatives and musicians, inspired by the wilds of Tasmanian forests, rivers and seas. It focuses on encouraging and empowering, inspiring and educating peoples about the beauty and integral nature of being part of these wild lands. The collective is based at the Huon Valley Environment Centre, Tasmania.
Arts | What's OnYou are invited to Remnants - the latest solo show by Anne Morrison
Despard Gallery
24.08.10 8:30 am
Please join us for drinks to meet the artist and preview the exhibition on 27th August at 6pm.
The continual movement of water and the flow and circulation of ocean currents, sculpt these organic forms and natural and artificial fibres into strange assemblages, perhaps echoing the spheres spun by the ocean currents in the convergence zone; the garbage patch of the Pacific Ocean. In this zone, rope, netting, plastics and the organic flesh of ocean flora and fauna become intertwined, spun together into immense spheres until released from the vortex when a critical mass is reached.
works are available to view online http://www.despard-gallery.com.au
Arts | What's OnAfternoon tea at the Boat House
Elizabeth Perey: President Florentine Protection Society Inc.
24.08.10 8:13 am
Dear members and supporters,
Come to this afternoon tea at the Boat House this Sunday and support our friends who got arrested in the Florentine on Mothers Day 2009.
Elizabeth Perey, President Florentine Protection Society.
From Inger Visby:
You are warmly invited to this afternoon event at the Cornelian Bay Boat House a fundraising event to help pay for the legal costs of the Faces of the Florentine Mothers Day 22 defendants. The Upper Florentine forest borders the World Heritage Area in three sides, and has long been recognised for sharing similar values and being deserving of similar protection.
Please come if you can and bring friends and family. RSVP is essential.
Kind regards, Inger
Invitation to a great afternoon in support of our forests
You are warmly invited to the Boat House Restaurant, Queens Walk, Cornelian Bay, on Sunday 29th August at 3.30pm.
- Hear about the Upper Florentine forest.
- Scrumptious food in a great location.
- Partake in a thrilling auction, collectable 1st edition books, accommodation, wine, artwork and more!
Funds raised will help pay the legal costs of the Faces of the Florentine Mothers Day 22 defendants.
Please come along, and bring friends and family!
Cost: $25, RSVP essential by phoning 6228 7208 or
6263 7300 for tickets (evenings preferred).
http://www.facesoftheflorentine.com
Politics | Local | National | State | Forestry | Gunns | Economy | Environment | What's OnCentre for Applied Philosophy & Ethics, School of Philosophy, UTAS
24.08.10 8:00 am
In the aftermath of the 2010 Federal Election, suddenly everyone’s talking about independence .....
See the attached invitation for you to join us for a public discussion on this timely question.
The Denison Debate - ‘Independence’ - featuring Adriana Taylor, Andrew Wilkie and Lucy Tatman.
Wednesday 25 August, 6 pm, Dechaineaux Lecture Theatre, Tasmanian School of Art, Hunter Street.
Presented by the Centre for Applied Philosophy & Ethics, School of Philosophy, UTAS.
Download:
The_Denison_DebateX_-_Independence.pdf
Tasmania Book Prizes
23.08.10 9:19 pm
Hobart Men’s Barbershop Harmony Club
Moonah Arts Centre
23.08.10 7:39 pm
Hobart Men’s Barbershop Harmony Club
Present
Musical Memories
Moonah Arts Centre,
Friday August 27th.
Doors Open at 7pm for a 7:30 Concert
Admission by Gold Coin Donation
Male a’ capella singing returns to Moonah Arts Centre on Friday the 27th of August , with a varied concert featuring a diverse range of performer groups. Enjoy the soaring vocal harmonies of performers aged 8 to 80 in this generational celebration of the popularity and joy of male barbershop style performance.
The one hour concert will feature new quartet “Uncalled Four” and perennial favourites “Acappellago”. Audiences can also enjoy the award winning youth chorus “Tag Team” and, the hugely popular seniors chorus “The Silvertones”.
This year’s special guests will be the “Margate Primary School Acappella Ensemble” under the direction of Peter Eddlestone.
The concert will be rounded out by performances from “Deep South”, Tasmania’s premier men’s a capella chorus. Directed by Russ Bailey, the ensemble will present a range of contemporary songs and some old favourites.
You won’t want to miss this top quality annual performance of outstanding men’s singing. Who knows, there might even be a chance for you to join in!
The concert starts at 7:30 pm. Doors open at 7:00 pm. Admission is by gold coin donation.
Arts | What's OnPRESERVATION OF THE LEATHERWOOD RESOURCE IN THE HUON DISTRICT
Bob Davey (President), SAVEYOURLEATHERWOODHONEY ASSOCIATION
23.08.10 7:27 pm
SAVEYOURLEATHERWOODHONEY ASSOCIATION
MEDIA RELEASE
FORESTRY TASMANIA AND SAVEYOURLEATHERWOODHONEY ASSOCIATION (ON BEHALF OF THE SOUTHERN BEEKEEPERS), HAVE BEGUN NEGOTIATIONS FOR THE PREPARATION OFA COMMUNITY FOREST AGREEMENT FOCUSED ON THE PRESERVATION OF THE LEATHERWOOD RESOURCE IN THE HUON DISTRICT OF TASMANIA`S STATE FOREST.
THIS AREA OF MORE THAN 400000HA KNOWN AS THE “SOUTHERN FOREST, ONCE CONTAINED MORE LEATHERWOOD RESOURCE THAN NOW REMAINS IN ALL OF THE STATE FOREST IN SOUTHERN TASMANIA. NOTWITHSTANDING THIS, LEATHERWOOD IS STILL SCATTERED THROUGHOUT THE DISTRICT AND CURRENTLY SUPPORTS IN EXCESS OF 1300 HIVES. MOST OF THE HIVES ARE USED FOR POLLINATION OF FRUIT, VEGETABLE AND SEED CROPS IN THE SOUTH OF TASMANIA. THESE HIVES NOW RELY EXCLUSIVELY ON THE REMAINING ACCESSABLE LEATHERWOOD IN THE DISTRICT. THERE IS NOW, SIMPLY, NO WHERE ELSE TO GO.
FINANCIAL MODELLING ACCEPTED BY THE PARTIES IN THE NEGOTIATIONS FOR THE WEDGE AGREEMENT, SHOW THAT FOR EVERY AREA OF STATE FOREST SUPPORTING 45 HIVES WHICH IS CLEARFELLED AND BURNT, THE LOSS TO THE TASMANIAN ECONOMY IS IN EXCESS OF $1.2M ANNUALLY. MOST OF THIS IS THE LOSS TO POLLINATION SERVICES WHICH ARE ESSENTIAL FOR THE PRODUCTION OF MOST OF OUR FOOD.
THE CATALYST FOR THE HISTORIC COMMUNITY FOREST AGREEMENT IN THE WEDGE BLOCK OF THE DERWENT DISTRICT (WEDGE AGREEMENT), WAS THIS FINANCIAL INFORMATION, COUPLED WITH THE REALISATION THAT HONEY BEE POLLINATION OF FOOD CROPS WAS CRITICAL TO THE PRODUCTION OF MORE THAN 50% OF THE FOOD WE EAT.
THE WEDGE AGREEMENT CREATED A LEATHERWOOD PROTECTION REGIME ENCOMPASSING SOME 10500HA ADJACENT TO LAKE GORDON. THE AGREEMENT IS ALREADY HAVING A SIGNIFICANT IMPACT ON THE IDENTIFICATION, ASSESSMENT AND PRESERVATION OF COMMERCAIL LEATHERWOOD STANDS IN THAT BLOCK.
THE MINISTER ADMINISTERING THE DPIWE AT THE TIME, DAVID LLEWELLYN, WAS INSTRUMENTAL IN ENCOURAGING THIS POSITIVE RESULT AND EXPRESSED THE VIEW, (IN WRITING), THAT SIMILAR BUT NOT NECESSARILY IDENTICAL AGREEMENTS, SHOULD BE NEGOTIATED FOR THOSE OF THE 5 FOREST DISTRICTS IN TASMANIA WHICH CONTAIN STANDS OF COMMERCIAL LEATHERWOOD TREES. WE ARE HOPEFUL THAT THE NEW MINISTER WILL HAVE THE SAME VISION AND FORESIGHT (AND PERHAPS NOT A LITTLE COURAGE).
WHILE THE NEGOTIATIONS RELATING TO THE HUON DISTRICT HAVE ONLY JUST BEGUN, THERE NOW EXISTS FOR THAT DISTRICT AN APIARY RESOURCE ASSESSMENT PROVISION IN EVERY FOREST PRACTICES PLAN (FPP). THIS IS A SIGNIFICANT STEP IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION.
THE INCLUSION OF THIS PROVISION AND THE AVAILABILITY OF EACH FPP FOR US TO INSPECT, HAS FOR THE FIRST TIME ENABLED US TO ACCURATELY MONITOR THE THREAT TO LEATHEREWOOD IN THE DISTRICT, HAVE AN EARLY INVOLVEMENT IN THE ASSESSMENT PROCESS AND MAKE SUBMISSIONS FOR LEATHERWOOD PRESERVATION ON A COUPE BY COUPE BASIS.
THE NEXT STAGE OF THIS PROCESS IS TO HAVE THE RELEVANT BEEKEEPERS, WITH OUR ASSISTANCE, INVOLVED IN THE PLANNING PROCESS BEFORE THE FPP IS FINALISED AND APPROVED.
WHILE THE WEDGE AGREEMENT TOOK SOME 21/2 YEARS TO NEGOTIATE, WITH THE EXPERIENCE OF THAT PROCESS AND IF THE GOOD WILL SHOWN BY FORESTRY TASMANIA CONTINUES, WE ARE CONFIDENT THAT THE CURRENT NEGOTIATIONS WILL CONCLUDE INSIDE 12 MONTHS.
IN THE MEANTIME FORESTRY TASMANIA HAS INDICATED THAT THE PRESERVATION OF MATURE LEATHERWOOD TREES WILL BE A PRIORITY IN EACH OF THE COUPES SCHEDULED FOR HARVESTING. THE SOUTHERN BEEKEEPERS WITH THE HELP OF THIS ASSOCIATION, WILL BE MONITORING THIS PROCESS CLOSELY.
Forestry | Economy
Creative Director Wanted for 2012 National Architecture Conference
Paddy Peisley, Dragica Barac Australian Institute of Architects
23.08.10 12:00 am
The Institute is seeking expressions of interest for the role of the Creative Director for the 2012 National Architecture Conference. For detailed information on submission requirements, the role of the Creative Director and eligibility, please click here
Inventive and enthusiastic individuals, practices, schools of architecture, or collaborative teams are encouraged to submit their expressions of interest in the role of creative director for the 2012 National Architecture Conference.
The appointed Creative Director will be responsible for the conceptualisation of theme and content of the 2012 Conference, while the formal and operational aspects will be the primary focus of the Institute’s events management team.
2010 extra/ordinary creative director, RMIT Associate Professor Mel Dodd said, “As a peer-reviewed event it has great potential to prompt an annual moment of reflection and provocation for architectural practice in Australia.
“Inviting a Creative Director, means creating a series of diverse and stimulating ‘positions’ on architectural culture and practice which have a consistent depth of focus, but a changeable emphasis and direction.
“As creative director, I appreciated the opportunity for curatorial authorship which was critical to the communication of meaningful thematic content for the audience. The ability to engage with the profession in such a well attended, well organised and focused event is impressive and has been very enjoyable, providing great opportunities for the future
2008 Parallax creative director Gerard Reinmuth said that the position is a, “once-in-a-career opportunity.”
“The discipline of thinking through a concept and program of talks and events to inspire our whole profession represents a form of professional development at the highest level. Complement this with the inspiration and stimulation from meeting some of the best architects and thinkers in the world, and you have perhaps the best job in architecture.”
The Institute has evolved into a dynamic and progressive national organisation with active and innovative programs in many areas relating to the architectural profession. The largest educational and networking opportunity for the Australian architecture community occurs at the National Architecture Conference.
Held annually, the National Architecture Conference is a major event of the Australian Institute of Architects and is attended by more than 1,000 delegates.
Download information on the role of the Creative Director and submission requirements.
Submission Deadline: Friday 5 November 2010
EnvironmentBISHOP TOM FRAME’S CRITIQUE OF THE ANGLICAN CHURCH
Tom Frame
21.08.10 6:08 pm
MEDIA RELEASE:
BISHOP TOM FRAME’S CRITIQUE OF THE ANGLICAN CHURCH
Saturday 21 August 2010
Tom Frame’s new book A House Divided: The Quest for Unity in Anglicanism, launched last night in Canberra, is a no holds barred, insider’s look at the Anglican Church in Australia.
Bishop Frame is the author of twenty two books, including Losing My Religion: Unbelief in Australia, which recently won the 2010 Australian Christian Book of the Year Award; The Life and Death of Harold Holt and HMAS Sydney: Australia’s Greatest Naval Tragedy.
In a House Divided he writes,
“In the face of growing anti-Christian sentiment, the time has come for the Anglican Church to declare what it believes and to determine the limits of diversity; to divest itself of the institutional baggage that drains its members of so much energy and enthusiasm, and to shed much of its antiquated Victorian accoutrement and stifling English mindset.”
Tom Frame argues that affluence is the greatest challenge to the Church in Australia.
He suggests that the church’s response to “the delusions of monetary wealth and the dangers of material affluence has not displayed the conviction and confidence that might have been expected…Christians have not made their mark as people who have overcome ‘affluenza’ or taken a stand against the mindless accumulation of manna. In this respect they are little different from their unbelieving neighbours.”
ReligionGOOD NEWS FOR HOBART LATE IN ELECTION CAMPAIGN
Helen Burnet
20.08.10 5:46 pm
The Premier’s announcement today was seen by Greens Alderman Helen Burnet as unexpected but welcome news.
“There haven’t been any great spending announcements specifically for Hobart as part of Denison during this federal election campaign. I find it somewhat amusing but am pleasantly surprised that on the eve of the election Premier Bartlett provides a good news spending statement for our city!”, Ald Burnet said.
The announcement had the support of the Greens in Cabinet.
Ald Burnet who attended the launch of the Sullivan’s Cove Master Plan by Premier Bartlett was delighted with the news that Domain House would be part of the University once more.
“This is a significant outcome after many years of campaigning by various people including Wendy Heatley from the Glebe Progress Association, along with many others who have wanted the building to be put back to its intended use- that of an educational facility.
“It is such an outstanding building with 120 years of rich history that the $3.5m injection of state funds is very good news indeed it will enrich the education precinct being very close to the Menzies Centre.”
Ald Burnet was pleased also with the other announcements - of the now vacant clinical school being made available to the Royal Hobart Hospital.
“This is a good outcome for our city, and for the medical precinct to use the freed up space for important hospital functions”.
The third announcement was the PWII shed going to the University.
“The announcements have provided a focus for or city and the waterfront precinct which will enhance the experience for those who work, visit and enjoy our beautiful city”, she concluded.
Liberal and Labor In Reckless Bid For Woodchip Votes.
Jenny Weber - Huon Valley Environment Centre
20.08.10 3:36 pm
An anonymous painting 20 metres long on the Southern Outlet in Kingston Tasmania
ChipBusters
SERCA South East Region Conservation Alliance
Environment East Gippsland
CHIPSTOP
Huon Valley Environment Centre
Media Release 20 August 2010
Liberal and Labor In Reckless Bid For Woodchip Votes.
Conservation groups are horrified by the announcement yesterday from the Liberal Party that they will clear away all obstacles under the Renewable Energy legislation to permit the woodchip industry to burn native forests for electricity. 8 million tonnes a year or more of Australia’s forests are at risk.
“At last, one of the two dinosaurs has come clean that a few thousand woodchip votes around the country are far more important to it than protecting old growth forests, carbon stores, biodiversity, water catchments and rural industries and communities that depend on these values” said spokespersons for the groups.
“This is an environmentally and financially reckless policy and must be rejected for the good of the country.”
“The Liberals are offering $42 million of taxpayers’ dollars for these votes plus robbing the genuine renewable energy industries like solar, wind and wave power of many millions more.”
“The Labor Party is also encouraging the woodchip industry to burn forests for electricity.”
“The Labor Government has refused twice in the last year to amend the huge loophole in the legislation that has encouraged the woodchip industry to start planning for these environmental disasters in at least four states, with a nod and a wink from the ALP.”
“Australia’s already shaky reputation as an environmentally responsible nation will go straight down the drain if this goes ahead.
We will be at loggerheads with the UN and every nation that is genuinely trying to save the world’s forests.”
“There are a number of other handouts of taxpayers’ money to the woodchip industry in this Liberal Party policy but the great threat to forests, in which both Labor and Liberal Parties are complicit, comes from giving a dying industry a massive new market for decades to come.”
“Already, the first planning application for a woodchip-fired power station, at Eden on the far south coast of NSW, has been lodged with the Keneally Labor Government, a clear signal that the industry expects to get accredited for Renewable Energy Certificates, effectively green energy bonuses for shams that will burn forests for electricity.”
http://WWW.NOFORESTFURNACES.ORG.AU
“The Coalition’s Plan for Real Action to Support Forestry” released 19 August 2010. Point 9 deals with Renewable energy accreditation for woodchip-fired power stations.
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The policy also announces measures that would
* further weaken environmental controls on the industry,
* put a freeze on any further forest reserves
* remove public scrutiny of Regional Forest Agreements (RFAs), by automatically rolling them over for periods of 5 years at a time.
About $5 million of the $42 million package will come from funds taken from the Regional Education Fund and $15 million will come from the National Bushfire Mitigation Program, which has been included in the forestry policy.
The lion’s share of the $42 million, some $20 million, would go to yet again bailing out logging contractors who this time have been affected by a combination the Global Financial Crisis and a rejection of Australian native forest woodchips by international markets.
.
The international paper manufacturers are increasingly rejecting Australia’s native forest woodchips, but the Liberal and Labor Parties are refusing to accept the verdict of the market place. Instead, they want to prop up this dying industry with yet more taxpayer cash bailouts.
The RFAs have been a disaster for Australia and should be axed as the legal and policy basis for managing our native forests. Repeated breaches of wildlife and water protection conditions by the State forestry agencies in Tasmania, Victoria, Western Australia and New South Wales make a mockery of the RFA’s. Taxpayer subsidies to the native forest logging and woodchipping industry in all States undermine the private plantation industry.
Politics | National | EnvironmentForget the spin - let’s compare your policies on the real issues
Jess Moore, Melanie Barnes
19.08.10 11:29 pm
Youth activists say: Vote socialist and Green, then use your power!
Jess Moore, Socialist Alliance candidate for Cunningham, and Melanie Barnes, candidate for Denison, today urged young people to vote socialist and Greens and put the Coalition last.
“The spectacle of Labor and the Coalition blowing millions in an advertising slagging match is a turn off to younger voters,” said Moore, the national convener of socialist youth organisation Resistance.
Barnes, well-known Hobart climate activist, added: “The temptation for many young people is to turn off and vote informal, but that’s a mistake.
“We need to ignore the spin and demand some serious answers about the policies of parties on the issues that concern us.”
Barnes recommended the web site Vote-o-Matic 2010 (at http://trog.qgl.org/voteomatic/) as a guide for undecided voters. The site orders parties according to people’s policy preferences on the issues in the election.
“The Socialist Alliance has produced a Policy Summary from Left to Right. (at http://www.socialist-alliance.org). Check it out and make up your own mind ”
Jess Moore added: “But after voting socialist and Green, let’s act for the policies we have voted for—otherwise they´ll never happen.
“There is a lot at stake in this election for us - from climate change to our workplace rights to whether more young people’s lives are going to be wasted in war of occupation of Afghanistan.
“It is our future and we can’t let politicians in the pockets of big coal, big oil and big banks wreck it.”
Barnes concluded: “Socialist Alliance candidates have had their best reception ever in this election campaign. That’s because we´ve spoken straight and we’ve addressed the big issues, not played the manipulative politics of fear and spin”.
Politics | NationalPoorer students easy target for Liberals
Carla Drakeford National President National Union of Students
19.08.10 11:25 pm
NUS is shocked at the revelation in the Coalition’s policy costings that an Abbott Government would slash programs to increase low SES participation in universities by 70%.
“This is so indicative of how the Liberals perceive higher education. By slashing the funding of universities on the basis of their delivery of a 20% target for low SES student participation, Tony Abbott has pulled the rug from under these important equity reforms established under Labor,” said Carla Drakeford, President of the National Union of Students.
“This is an easy shot for the Liberals, who, while in government never indexed or increase the rates of student income support to help students out. This, coupled with their policy to reintroduce Domestic Undergraduate Full Fees (DUFFs) shows that they believe higher education should be only for those who can pay,” she said.
“Universities will lose critical funding and Australian students will suffer from the reduced chance of participating in universities. NUS echoes the remarks made by Professor Ross Milbourne – this policy is short sighted and ignores the recommendations of the Bradley Review,” she said.
“After lengthy consultations with the sector including student groups, the Bradley Review developed comprehensive plans to increase low SES participation over the next decade. The Bradley Review also stressed the economic benefits that will flow from increased participation which the Liberals will be ignoring if these cuts are enacted with the election of a Coalition government,” she said.
Call for comment
Politics | National | Education
It will matter to the ABC who is elected on Aug 21
Friends of the ABC
19.08.10 9:55 pm
It will matter to the ABC who is elected on Aug 21
‘The good news, bad news and the unknown’ is the unofficial name Friends of the ABC has given its 2010 election report. The report is based on feedback from the extensive questionnaire FABC sent to major parties and candidates to ask what they would do for the ABC if elected.
“The Coalition’s response on ABC funding is very worrying,” said Glenys Stradijot, a spokesperson for Friends of the ABC (Vic). “The Coalition has promised only that it would not cut funding already committed to the ABC.”
“That’s not reassuring, particularly in light of the Coalition’s record on the ABC when it was in government last time. Friends is concerned at what may happen when the ABC’s current round of funding expires in 2012.”
Tony Abbott and many of his present team were key ministers in the Howard Government which cut appropriations to the ABC and later interfered by directing funding to particular areas of the broadcaster’s operations.
“In contrast, the Greens proposal for a per capita funding model indicates an interest to secure the ABC’s financial future.
“Friends welcomes the Greens having placed on the political agenda a funding method that would ensure the national broadcaster is adequately resourced and stop governments from interfering in the ABC’s operations by withholding funds.
It believes that all politicians and aspiring politicians who appreciate the importance of Australia’s independent public broadcaster to our democracy and culture should support the Greens proposal.
“The Labor Government has not revealed its plans for the ABC if re-elected. Instead it only provided to FABC a statement of its record in government. Labor’s positive actions in its first term in office - increased funding and a halt to the stacking of the ABC Board - were heartening. Its failure to address questions asked of it about the ABC’s future is disappointing.
“We don’t even have an assurance that Labor would reintroduce its Bill for a new merit-based system of appointments to the ABC and SBS boards and to restore the staff-elected director position on the ABC Board. Friends believes the staff director is an important counter to governments that stack the Board and ensures at lease one member of the board with public broadcasting experience,” said Glenys Stradijot.
A copy of FABC’s 2010 election report is attached.
FABC_Election_Report_16_Aug_2010.pdf
Time to restart the republican debate
Australian Fabians
19.08.10 9:36 pm
The major parties are missing an historic opportunity to put the republican debate back on the agenda in the Federal election campaign, according to the author of a new book on Australia’s political origins.
Dr Tony Moore, the author of Death or Liberty, said that Australians need to rediscover the deep republican traditions that arrived here in chains when some 3,600 political prisoners were transported to the Australian colonies.
The title of the book comes from the rallying cry of a stream of political exiles including liberals, democrats and republicans; English machine breakers, trade unionists and Chartists; radical journalists, preachers and intellectuals; and of course Irish, Canadian and even American revolutionaries.
While viewed by the British government with the same alarm as today’s terrorists, the political prisoners are now revered in their homelands as freedom fighters. Yet in Australia, the land of their exile, memory of these martyrs has dimmed.
Dr Moore, Director of the National Centre for Australian Studies at Monash University, will explore these themes at a joint Australian Fabians/gleebooks event tonight with Professor Geoff Gallop, the Premier of Western Australia from 2001 to 2006 and now Director, Graduate School of Government at the University of Sydney.
“In Death or Liberty, I was fascinated by the many parallels between Botany Bay and Guantánamo Bay – both places far away from the centre of empire for people who could not be trusted,” Dr Moore said.
“Many of the political prisoners were transported for their republicanism, transplanting this idea into our colonial DNA from the 1790s, and a significant number contributed to our early achievement of democracy as political activists, crusading journalists, even a Government minister.
“Even today, the Australian republican debate is focussed almost exclusively on the top of the pyramid, with simply replacing the head of state.
“Perhaps we need to look at a republicanism that expands democracy throughout the body politic; at reducing hierarchies in government and making those tiers that remain directly accountable to their communities rather than controlled from the centre in the colonial style.”
Dr Moore said all sides of politics should embrace the principles for which the early political prisoners were transported, such as freedom of speech and assembly, universal suffrage, and one person one vote.
“As we exercise the hard won democratic right to vote we should have a much clearer picture where the parties stand on how Australia will progress to a republic,” Dr Moore said.
Senator Christine Milne
19.08.10 9:18 pm
The Greens are the best insurance policy for fishing into the future, Australian Greens Senator Christine Milne said today.
“Anyone who loves the oceans knows that globally the marine environment is under threat from climate change, acidification, pollution and over fishing.”
“Here in Tasmania we are already experiencing the arrival of fish species from northern waters looking for colder temperatures and the impact on the local fishery is as yet unknown.”
“What is known is the devastating impact of the extension of the warm and nutrient poor east Australian current down Tasmania’s east coast bringing with it the sea urchins now decimating the kelp forests and the nursery for the rock lobster.”
“Acidification is already resulting in thinner shells for microscopic creatures and threatens krill which is the base of the marine food chain.”
“Now more than ever we need scientific research into the sustainability of fisheries and we need to make sure that marine protected areas continue to keep fisheries sustainable and viable.”
“The Greens support scientific research, we support finding solutions to the urchin invasion in Tasmanian waters, we support action on climate change and we support sustaining the fisheries so that people can fish into the future.”
“The Greens do not want to ban fishing, we want to make sure that there are fish for this and future generations.”
“This is the UN Year of Biodiversity, it is National Science week and 150 scientists have sent an open letter to the Prime Minister and to the leader of the Coalition, Tony Abbott calling on them “to protect Australia’s valuable marine biodiversity recognising that the long term health of the marine ecosystems is essential to maintaining many important activities, such as tourism and fisheries.”
A copy of the letter from 150 scientists in support of protecting Australia’s valuable marine biodiversity is below:
PossinghamNevill2010-letterJGTA-1.doc
One Fest, One-Act Play Festival
Philip Crouch
19.08.10 4:58 pm
Hoping this email finds you all well and in good health. For both regular theatre goers and those attending for the first time this is a wonderful theatrical opportunity to see a series of locally produced One Act Plays. Sessions commence (see attached flyer –or info below) at the Playhouse Theatre 106 Bathurst St, Hobart on Friday night the 27th August 7:30 pm, Saturday afternoon at 2:00pm, and Saturday evening at 7:30pm. In all twelve One Act Plays are being performed so there is something for everyone.
If you have never been to a One Act Play before this is golden opportunity to creatively embrace good theatre performances. At the end of each session, there are four plays in each session, a formal adjudication by an independent theatre professional is being provided.
One Fest is convened by Hobart Repertory Society and Old Nick Company both organisation have an established theatre reputation. You can book at the Playhouse prior to each session (or pay for all three), alternately on line at Centretainment http://www.centretainment.com phone 6234-5998…simply call in to 53 Elizabeth St, Hobart (rear of newsagency). Look forward to seeing you at One Fest…we’ll have a ball!
Arts | What's OnProtecting Children from Junk Food Advertising
Wendy Heatley, and Senator Christine Milne
19.08.10 9:13 am
Greens Candidate for Franklin, Wendy Heatley, and Senator Christine Milne announced jointly today that the Greens will reintroduce legislation to ban junk food advertising on TV between 6.00am and 9.30pm.
‘The Greens believe a ban on advertising unhealthy foods to children during peak TV viewing periods where companies focus most of their expenditure would help to reinforce and normalise healthy eating for Australian children and would enable them to make healthier food choices, said Ms Heatley.
‘Television advertising is the dominant marketing technique used to promote unhealthy foods and beverages to our children. Industry self-regulation clearly is not working. Our children are being bombarded with inappropriate advertising and messages on TV which simply makes it impossible to make healthier food choices.’
‘As a parent I understand the impact of advertising on children. My youngest son is eight years old and is still heavily influenced by TV ads. He, like other children of his age is heavily influenced by advertisers and frequently asks me to buy products advertised on TV, whether it is soft-drinks, take-aways or toys.’
‘Food advertising to children affects food choices and influences dietary habits. A ban on junk food advertising to children is part of the Greens preventative health strategy which focuses on improving wellbeing and making the most of our health budget’
The Greens legislation will:
• Prevent the broadcast of advertisements or sponsorship announcements for these food or beverages between 6.00am and 9.30pm on commercial television – this requirement would be in addition to the requirements of the Commercial Television Industry Code of Practice.
• Introduce standards for the control of food or beverage advertising consistent with foods or beverages that are considered unbeneficial to children’s health and well-being, based on the Food Standards Australia New Zealand nutrient profiles
Regional Arts Australia national conference
Angela Driver, Tasmanian Regional Arts
17.08.10 9:04 am
After years of planning it’s hard to believe that the Junction 2010, Regional Arts Australia national conference is less than two weeks away.
The response from around Australia has been fantastic with delegates and presenters coming from every state and territory with a good selection of international visitors, many of whom are already in Launceston. It is particularly exciting to have speakers such as Robyn Archer, Marcus Westbury, Deborah Conway, Dr. Ernesto Sirolli, Francois Matarasso, Mark Pesce and Mike White all eager and ready to present.
I believe that Junction 2010 presents a fantastic opportunity for Tasmania to showcase the vibrancy of our artistic scene and an opportunity for us to reflect and re-imagine what the future of the arts sector can be. It truly will be fun!
If you haven’t registered for the conference as yet, I would urge you to do so as the discussions and sessions will be highly relevant to the type of work we all undertake. If you can’t make it to the full conference, day registrations are available which will provide a fantastic snapshot of the conference as a whole.
If you are registered I look forward to seeing you here and urge you to ensure that as many people as possible from your organisation attend and take-up this opportunity to make the most of this nationally significant event.
Go to http://www.junction2010.com.au to register or to view more information about the conference or surrounding arts festival.
Arts | What's OnFullers
17.08.10 9:00 am
High profile peace activist, Donna Mulhearn, talks about her experiences as a human shield in Iraq at Fullers Bookshop, Tuesday, August 24th at 6pm
Donna Mulhearn will be at Fullers Bookshop to talk about her experience as a high profile peace activist and her book Ordinary Courage on Tuesday, August 24th at 6pm.
In 2003 Donna heard a call to action that would change her life forever and she flew from Sydney to Baghdad to become a human shield to deter the ‘Coalition of the Willing’ from attacking Baghdad.
Donna’s story, of life as a disillusioned journalist and political adviser and her move in to activism is exceptional. The book is full of bravery and, despite the title of the book, no ordinary courage.
Well known expat Australian political activist, John Pilger, has said of her book “in this powerful memoir, Donna Mulhearn’s courage and principles stand in damning contrast to the lies told in our name. I salute her.”
All are welcome to attend this free event.
Books | What's OnJOSEPH TAWADROS QUARTET ++++ ANGEL ++++
Joseph Tawadros
14.08.10 8:28 am
Joseph Tawadros (Oud), Matt McMahon (Piano), Dimitri Vouras (Clarinet)
James Tawadros (Egyptian Percussion)
Thursday, 16th September, 2010, 8pm
TOM MANN THEATRE
136 Chalmers St, Surrey Hills
(Opposite Central Station, opposite Prince Alfred Park)
Adult: $25 Concession: $20
For Bookings please email: .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
.(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
Joseph never ceases to amaze and at 26 has established himself as one the world’s leading oud performers and composers. A virtuoso of amazing diversity and sensitivity, Joseph continues to appear in concert halls worldwide dazzling audiences with his brilliant technique, his passionate musicianship and his joyous style of performance. Always willing to push the boundaries and challenge traditional musical forms and rhythms, his efforts have led him to many unique collaborations, and he has recorded 7 albums to date: Storyteller, Rouhani, Visions, Epiphany, Angel, The Prophet: Music Inspired by the Poetry of Kahlil Gibran and his latest offering, The Hour of Separation. A resident of Australia since 1986, Joseph has been responsible for expanding the Oud’s notoriety in mainstream western culture and has also been recognized in the Arab world; recently being invited to appear on the judging panel of the Damascus International Oud competition in 2009.
Now Joseph joins with three of Australia’s finest virtuosos; his prodigiously talented brother James on percussion, celebrated jazz pianist Matt McMahon and Greek clarinettist Dimitri Vouros in this very special concert - transporting us into another world with the magical sounds of the oud.
http://WWW.JOSEPHTAWADROS.COM
JOSEPH AND JAMES WILL ALSO BE CELEBRATING THE RELEASE OF THEIR NEW CD
THE HOUR of SEPARATION
Watch: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8SxGJ1w4BFw
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2FLc53xwTtc&feature=related
Fullers Bookshop offers a permanent home for Student Readings
Fullers Bookshop
13.08.10 4:35 pm
Fullers Bookshop offers a permanent home for Student Readings starting Thursday 19th August at 6pm.
Fullers Bookshop has teamed up with Rosny College to provide a permanent home for student readings.
Starting next Thursday, August 19 at 6pm, college age students will read their prose or poetry to a captive audience again.
Students are encouraged to bring along their prose or poetry that can be read aloud in around three minutes.
Registrations will be accepted on the night and cost $3.
The readers will be judged by Liz Winfield and Karen Knight and awarded prizes at the end of the night. There will be three prizes in both the poetry section and the prose section.
Winners will also be published on Cedric’s Wall, an online occasional journal which will feature the work - poetry, fiction, essays - of younger Tasmanian writers.
Ben Walter, assistant manager of Fullers and a writer and publisher himself says “There are precious few opportunities for young writers in Tasmania - this has long been a source of encouragement for them to hone and develop their craft and we’re looking to see that continue.
“My first publishing opportunity came as a result of the night in 1997, and it’s terrific to offer this kind of opportunity to others,” he said.
All are welcome to attend this free event.
Arts | Books | What's On
