Archive for the ‘Tasmanian People’ Category

Devil of a Cookbook is the result of two of its author’s passions in life.  Fiona Hoskin is the Tasmanian branch manager for Thermomix, so the recipes in the book are designed for use with the advanced kitchen appliance.  But the thing that really appeals to us about the book is this:  all proceeds from sales will go to the Devil Island Project, to protect the endangered Tasmanian Devil, a much-loved icon of wildlife in Tasmania.

Thermomix recipes: Devil of a Cookbook by Fiona Hoskin

Devil of a Cookbook: the Launch

Fiona Hoskin launched her Devil of a Cookbook in Hobart on Monday with the help of some of her friends.  The room at the Hobart Function and Conference Centre was filled with media representatives and Thermomix consultants, who all seemed thrilled to be associated with the project.  Given that these (mostly) women are all dedicated to taking fresh Tasmanian produce and creating stunning gourmet food, you can just imagine the spread on offer!

The launch of Devil of a Cookbook was held at the Hobart Function & Conference Centre

Fiona's network of Thermomix consultants prepared morning tea for guests

After guests were treated to morning tea and a celebratory glass of champagne, Grace Mazur, Managing Director of Thermomix in Australia, took to the microphone.  Congratulating Fiona Hoskin on the launch, she then introduced Tasmanian parliamentarian Kerry Finch, a patron of the Devil Island Project.  He spoke about Fiona’s efforts to raise money and awareness of the plight of the Tasmanian Devil and the fight against Facial Tumour Disease.

Devil Island Patron Kerry Finch MLC introduces Fiona at the launch of Devil of a Cookbook

Fiona Hoskin: a Devil of a Woman!

We met Fiona Hoskin about 12 months ago.  Intrigued by the Devil of a Cookbook concept, we kept in touch, keen to share the outcome with you.  As with many worthy fundraising initiatives, it’s been a mammoth effort from idea to realisation, with delays and hurdles along the way.  The eventual publication of the book is a triumph in itself.  But now (having heard Kerry speak) we have a renewed respect for Fiona, the driving force behind the book.

Fiona Hoskin signs a copy of Devil of a Cookbook for Think Tasmania

As a well-respected and celebrated Tasmanian chef, Fiona was able to lend her name and recipes to the Devil of a Cookbook and gain instant recognition.  And she could well have left the association there and been praised for her involvement.  But that’s not what she did.  She jumped in, boots and all, as an ambassador for the conservation of the iconic and endangered Tasmanian Devil.

Recipes for the latest in the Thermomix collection of cookbooks, have been designed by Tasmanian consultants and customers.  There’s a Sticky Lime Cake by Joan Wylie of Burnie that sounds divine; and a Sixty Second Fruit Cake by Tina Singline of Bicheno that will make Christmas a whole lot easier for some!  Fiona worked tirelessly to collect and collate all the contributions, as well as donating recipes for some of her own signature dishes (from acclaimed former Launceston restaurant Fee and Me).

Fiona Hoskin demonstrates the Thermomix using recipes from Devil of a Cookbook

Tetsuya Wakuda: Contribution to Devil of a Cookbook

Fiona also convinced world-renown chef and Tasmanian ambassador Tetsuya Wakuda to join her mission.  Tetsuya wrote the foreward for Devil of a Cookbook and contributed a handful of recipes.  They include Lobster Ravioli with Tomato and Basil Vinaigrette; and Grilled Fillet of Veal with Wasabi and Sea Urchin Butter.  He was also in attendance at the launch and spoke of his passion for fresh produce; the worthwhile cause to protect a native species, and his love of Tasmania in general.

Tetsuya Wakuda, Tasmanian ambassador, wrote the foreward for Devil of a Cookbook

Working on recipes and collaborating with industry colleagues for Devil of a Cookbook might sound like just a day’s work for a top chef.  But Fiona also ran the London Marathon to raise international awareness and funds to build the first Devil Island.  A marathon!  And more than once, actually.   That’s some serious commitment.   Other events have been held over the years, involving dinners and dancing… but a marathon?  Wow!  Apparently a Tasmanian Devil runs the equivalent of a marathon every night in the quest to eat, so there’s the connection.

Tasmanian Devil ~ Click image to see more pictures by Dan Fellow

We must stress that Fiona did not embark on all these tasks on her own.  The Devil Island Project (DIP) is the brainchild of Bruce Englefield, and actually deserves a separate feature article (that’s coming soon).  Suffice to say that an army of men, women and children have volunteered their time, effort and expertise to raise an enormous amount of money over several years.  Some of them with a high profile, such as Shane Gould, also a patron of the DIP and in attendance at the launch.

Fiona Hoskin, Tasmanian branch manager for Thermomix, at the Hobart book launch

But for now we’d like to add to the chorus congratulating Fiona Hoskin on the release of Devil of a Cookbook.  She’s an inspiration to all of us.  Next time someone complains about being too busy… thoughts will return to Fiona.  Her campaign to help save the Tassie Devils proves that one person can make an incredible difference.

Devil of a Cookbook sells for $40 and is a stunning collection of
recipes, with images of both food and scenery from Tasmania.
For more information you can like Devil of a Cookbook on Facebook.
If you’d like more details, just contact Think Tasmania
or leave a reply on this article and we’ll forward your details.

If you like this article about Tasmania, and you’d like to read more, just subscribe to our newsletter or join us on Facebook.  If you really like this article, and you want others to see it, you can choose one of the “share” options below.  We’d love that!

Comments relevant to this article are also very welcome, just leave a reply below.

I popped along recently to find out all about Bohemian Beauty, and why it’s such a popular place to get pampered. As soon as you walk through the door you are greeted by the beautiful Silvia and feel immediately at ease in the warm and friendly surroundings. I was treated to one of her signature pedicures.  As I settled into a comfy chair, I found out all about the business.

Michelle gets pampered with a pedicure at Bohemian Beauty in Ulverstone

Bohemian Beauty: Silvia Bell

by Michelle Kneipp Pegler

Bohemian Beauty is a beauty salon in Ulverstone, in the north west coast region of Tasmania. Owner Silvia Bell is originally from the Czech Republic, also known as Bohemia. I love that association within the business name; I think it works very well.

Silvia Bell, owner of Bohemian Beauty, has a stylish salon in Ulverstone

Silvia Bell started her successful beauty business from her home in Western Australia and then after relocating to Tasmania continued to offer beauty services from her home in Ulverstone. She has over 20 years of experience gained both overseas and in Australia. After twelve years of successful home-based business, Silvia desired to take it to the next level and opened her store at 30 King Edward Street, Ulverstone.

Silvia originally built up her clientele on the great pedicures and manicures she offered. Word got out how wonderful they were. My pedicure started with a warm and refreshing soak.  Then my toe nails were clipped, cuticles cut and all dead skin removed; then finished off with a moisturiser and a lovely nail polish. New nail files are used each time for hand and feet treatments and stainless steel bowls are used, as they do not harbour germs. Everything is very professional at Bohemian Beauty.

Silvia works her magic on Michelle's feet with a pedicure at Bohemian Beauty

Manicures, Pedicures and More…

Along with the pedicures and manicures offered, there are also hand treatments and nail treatments. There’s eyebrow shape, wax and tinting and eyelash tint and extensions as well. A number of facial treatments are available…

• Teen Solution Facial
• Total Relaxation
• Lactic Peels
• Specialised Ultraceuticals Facial (using the Australian brand skin care product)

Bohemian Beauty is also the first salon on the north west coast to be able to optimise the absorption of active ingredients into the skin using ultrasonic vibrations. They also do spray tans using the product Fake Bake. All your waxing requirements are available here too. They use only the best quality products for all their services.

Silvia stocks of a range of up-to-date products at Bohemian Beauty

Up-to-Date Pampering Treatments…

Silvia constantly keeps up with all the new treatments available. Now available at Bohemian Beauty…

• semi-permanent eyebrow enhancement, or cosmetic tattooing
  (no more pencils, re-application or unevenness)
• Diamond Tip Microdermabrasion, a non-surgical, safe and
  gentle procedure that exfoliates and polishes the skin
• Myscara, a semi-permanent mascara that lasts up to 2 weeks
• Lash in a Flash, a full set of eyelash extensions
• Tooth Gems, enhance your smile with a rhinestone!

They are also retail stockists of Ultraceuticals homecare range; Kryolan professional make-up; Pelactiv homecare range; Magneteyes (collagen/algae eye pads) and a wide selection of OPI nail varnishes including mini collections.

Silvia stocks only the best products in her Bohemian Beauty Salon in Ulverstone

Bohemian Beauty has lots of promotions and great offers throughout the year.
You can keep updated with specials by liking the Bohemian Beauty Facebook
page and you can make bookings by calling (03) 6425 9691 or 0419 950 866.
Gift vouchers are available for an extra special gift. Opening hours are:
Monday-Friday 9.00 am–5.30 pm (later on Wednesdays and
Thursdays) and Saturdays by appointment.

As for my pedicure… all I can say is my feet haven’t felt or looked so good in a long time!  We all need a little pampering once in a while and this is definitely the place to go for a professional and personal touch.  You will definitely feel like a Bohemian Beauty after having a treatment here.

Bohemian Beauty have professional staff and maintain high standards of service

Michelle Kneipp Pegler writes a blog called Leven River Farm
as well as articles like this about the north west coast of Tasmania.
If you’d like Michelle to visit you, please contact Think Tasmania.

If you like this article about Tasmania, and you’d like to read more, just subscribe to our newsletter or join us on Facebook.  If you really like this article, and you want others to see it, you can choose one of the “share” options below.  We’d love that!

Comments relevant to this article are also very welcome, just leave a reply below.

Map: Bohemian Beauty, Ulverstone Tasmania…

Blowing In The Wind

by Roger Findlay

When we arrived in Whitemark we noticed action up on the hill. As twilight fell, we could see workers and a crane erecting a huge tower. Later that same evening, a truck parked up alongside our temporary holiday home (Elvstan Cottages) and my curious wife came back with the news that the two gentlemen were operating the crane up on the hill.

The original wind turbines ~ Whitemark, Flinders Island

At the Whitemark Interstate Hotel on ANZAC Day night the same gentlemen were enjoying a meal with a group of fellow workers and it wasn’t long before I took the opportunity to introduce myself to Frank the site manager. I also arranged to meet Frank on site the following day.

Looking down on to Whitemark (Flinders Island) from wind turbine location point

As I approached the tower, Frank was coming towards me. He had to be at Lady Barron for the loading of the trucks and crane for the shipment back to Bridport. With permission, I got a few photos but most of the action was over except for the final connection and commissioning.

Flinders Island Wind Turbine ~ Tasmanian Entrepreneur

Robert Nichols of Nichols Poultry in Sassafras, Tasmania is an exceptionally successful businessman. He has his own wind turbines that provide all of the energy for the poultry operation and I would recommend that you check-out the website…

Nichols Poultry has a division dedicated to wind turbines (Blowing in the Wind)

Just like me, Robert is from the East Midlands in the UK and we have a few things in common.  But he leaves me for dead when it comes to business and enterprise!

Robert has a branch of his business called Blowing in the Wind for the installation of wind turbines. He has kindly provided the information below for Think Tasmania with regard to the latest installation on Flinders Island:

The turbine on Flinders Island is an Enercon E 30 machine.  These are German made and are regarded as the best in the world.  The “30″ relates to the diameter of the blades (ie 30 metres). It is also by coincidence that the height of the tower is 30 metres. In favourable winds (and in Flinders there are many!) it will produce up to 300kw of power. This is a challenge on Flinders Island as the demand on a summers night can be less; as such the turbine chosen for this project has the ability to “spill” some wind by feathering the blades and reducing the output to match the demand. All of this is done in conjunction with the Hydro/Aurora power station at Whitemark via a control system that regulates the output to suit the demand.

Blowing in the Wind turbine ready for commission on Flinders Island

The E30 can convert wind into energy at a range of wind speeds from as low as 2.5 metres per second up to a maximum of 30 metres per second. Above this figure it is a danger to the machine to operate and so it will shut down. The optimal output is achieved at around 12 to 14 metres per second.  In total the tower weighs 26 ton; the Nacelle weighs 16 ton and the rotor weighs 7 ton.

The new wind turbine: harness the power on Flinders Island

The turbine is expected to produce about 25% of the island’s energy. This is the third turbine that my company Blowing in the Wind (BTW) has constructed, but the first away from mainland Tasmania. We hope to start construction of our fourth turbine in a few weeks’ time when the paperwork is complete. The Flinders Island project has been a challenging one with logistics to the island being a major issue. However, we hope that the experience gained by completing the job safely and on time will enable BTW to become involved in other embedded generation projects.

Wind turbine landmark, Whitemark Flinders Island

Rob, we thank you for this information and permission to use the photos. Now it’s my ambition to have a guided tour of Nichols Poultry (by yourself of course) followed by a chat about our old stomping ground!

Roger Findlay spends all his holidays in Tasmania, then writes about the
experience for Think Tasmania. If you’d like Roger to visit you in the name of
research (so we can publish information about your business), please contact us.

If you like this article about Tasmania, and you’d like to read more, just subscribe to our newsletter or join us on Facebook.  If you really like this article, and you want others to see it, you can choose one of the “share” options below.  We’d love that!

Comments relevant to this article are also very welcome, just leave a reply below.

Map: Wind Turbine, Whitemark Flinders Island…

We received a lovely letter from Pedal Buggies Tasmania after we published an article about their business.  Obviously, we’re always keen to hear from happy business owners, but we don’t normally make this sort of thing public.  However Dallas wrote such a glowing report of Michelle that we couldn’t resist this time.  We have a stellar group of regular contributors, and Michelle Kneipp Pegler is definitely a vital part of that great team.  She does a fantastic job promoting Gunns Plains and the surrounding communities.

Michelle and John riding in style with Pedal Buggies Tasmania in Ulverstone

This is what Dallas from Pedal Buggies Tasmania had to say…

Hi Tania,

What a great job Michelle has done with this article. Michelle and John just dropped in unannounced and while I chatted to John, Michelle just went about her business taking a few photos here and there and looking around along with us having a few chats between customers.  Michelle made it a very relaxed visit for me.  It probably wasn’t quite as relaxed for her and John as they did their fair share of exercise as they tried different buggies out.

 

When Michelle and John left it left me thinking “Has Michelle cottoned on to what we are about in this visit”?  Well I think she has done a terrific job and captured what we are about very well.  You are very fortunate to have someone like Michelle writing for you.  I would like to say to you at Think Tasmania “Thank You for considering us worthy to do a story on.”  Keep up this great work you are doing in promoting this, our lovely state.  The stories you publish are excellent.  Thanks for helping the little tourism businesses along.  It’s nice to see smaller businesses promoted in such a positive way and not all the lime light on the large players as is often the case.

Thank you.

Don’t forget when you and your family are up this way come and check us out as guests in appreciation for what you have done.

Please feel free to use this article in your next newsletter.  Again thank you, and for all the links, Facebook etc.  thanks.

All the best and I hope to meet you sometime soon.

Regards Dallas

Pedal Buggies Tasmania

Dallas is right.  We are very fortunate to have someone like Michelle writing for us!  And I think the north west coast is pretty lucky as well.

Michelle about to embark on one of the Leven Canyon walks

Michelle Kneipp Pegler writes a blog called Leven River Farm
as well as articles like this about the north west coast of Tasmania.
If you’d like Michelle to visit you, please contact Think Tasmania.

If you like this article about Tasmania, and you’d like to read more, just subscribe to our newsletter or join us on Facebook.  If you really like this article, and you want others to see it, you can choose one of the “share” options below.  We’d love that!

Comments relevant to this article are also very welcome, just leave a reply below.

Map: Pedal Buggies Tasmania, Ulverstone…

Latrobe Fine Art Gallery, Tasmania

by Lorraine McNeair

When you first walk through the door of the Latrobe Fine Art Gallery you are embraced by a world of vibrant colours and soft hues.  The glassware (in jewellery and decorative objects) is amazingly bright or softly subdued.  The paintings on the wall are diverse, including those by owner Beverley Skurulis, whose unique paintings are displayed along with work by other Tasmanian artists.

Oil painting titled A Stormy Day in Stanley by Beverley Skurulis, Latrobe Fine Art Gallery

Pam's Plate ~ a glass piece from the Latrobe Fine Art Gallery in Tasmania

Interesting History and Art in Latrobe

Indeed, all of the wonderful art objects in this gallery are Tasmanian.  The building in which the Latrobe Fine Art Gallery is situated at 41-41a Gilbert Street has an interesting history, having been used by many different occupants.  The building is C1865 and has been Nathan’s Store and residence, the Mistletoe Lodge (United Order of Druids), a photographic studio, a public hall, a bank, a post office and a place for band practice.

Found at 41 Gilbert Street, the Latrobe Fine Art Gallery building has an interesting history

The Latrobe Fine Art Gallery sells a selection of glass art, including jewellery

As well as the building’s history being extremely interesting, you will find Beverley Skurulis a very interesting lady.  You will leave the Latrobe Fine Art Gallery enriched by the experience.  Latrobe Fine Art Gallery has a website with information about the artwork and a store with items for sale.  For more information phone: 036426 2931 or 0407 581 796 or email Beverley Skurulis.

Beverley Skurulis, owner of the Latrobe Fine Art Gallery

We received the following message from Penny Skurulis-Winter inviting us to visit Latrobe Fine Art Gallery…

Hi
I have been following Think Tasmania on Facebook for quite a while now and really look forward to reading about where you have been.  I was wondering if you would at some stage like to drop into the Latrobe Fine Art Gallery in Latrobe.  We are at 41 Gilbert Street, Latrobe and have renovated an original 1864 house that was once the town hall, a photographic studio, a bank, a bric-a-brac shop and now an exclusively Tasmanian wares gallery.

As Tasmania has so many clever people, we don’t need to go anywhere else to fill the gallery, and we pride ourselves on our approach to tasteful and clever things and the people that create them.  You can visit our website or our Facebook page at Latrobe Fine Art Gallery or better still on your travels drop in to say hello.
Thank-you
Penny

Jewellery made by Penny Skurulis-Winter, of Latrobe Fine Art Gallery

We appreciate all the support and requests we receive from our readers and followers, and do try to cover as much territory as humanly possible.  Given Think Tasmania is an independent and fully self-funded website, we have to co-ordinate times and a budget for travel.  We were able to expedite this article when Lorraine volunteered to research and report back about places in and around her home town of Latrobe.

Vibrant jewellery art sold at 41 Gilbert Street, Latrobe Fine Art Gallery

Lorraine McNeair is a volunteer with the Latrobe Information Centre.
She is a writer, photographer, poet and artist, and is passionate about
sharing all the interesting things she knows about Tasmania.

If you like this article about Tasmania, and you’d like to read more, just subscribe to our newsletter or join us on Facebook.  If you really like this article, and you want others to see it, you can choose one of the “share” options below.  We’d love that!

Comments relevant to this article are also very welcome, just leave a reply below.

Map: Latrobe Fine Art Gallery, Latrobe Tasmania…

David and Anne Kernke are the owners of Shene, the historic Tasmanian property located in Pontville.  Anne has been following Think Tasmania on Facebook, and was impressed by the photographs taken by Dan Fellow.  She invited him to visit and inspect the work they’re doing as the custodians of this Heritage Highway treasure.

Shene Tasmania is a valuable link with Australia's colonial heritage

Shene: Unveiling a Heritage Treasure

Photos by Dan Fellow

The story of Shene dates back to 1819, when Governor Lachlan Macquarie issued a land grant to Edward Paine, grandson of King George III.  The homestead and stable complex were designed by Francis Butler, son of prominent English lawyer Gamaliel Butler.  Francis was the architect responsible for many of the iconic buildings throughout the Hobart region, but the construction of this Pontville property was a symbol of the wealth and power of the landed gentry.

Shene includes an elaborate homestead and stable buildings designed by Francis Butler

Visit the historic stables and barn buildings during a walking tour of Shene

These days, Shene is providing owners David and Anne Kernke with a wealth of history to share.  Built using convict labour, there are tales of conflict between the settlers, the convicts, local Aboriginals and the occasional bush ranger.  As a vital agricultural holding, the wheat grown on the property was used to sustain the colony in both Hobart and Sydney Cove.

Some amazing history has been uncovered during the renovation of Shene

Tour and High Tea with David and Anne Kernke

The public can now gain an incredible insight into early colonial times by joining a walking tour of Shene.   David and Anne Kernke escort visitors around the privately owned estate, taking in the Georgian homestead, servant’s quarters and the iconic stables and barn.

Join owners David and Anne Kernke on a heritage walking tour of Shene

Tours are strictly by appointment and operate Friday through to Monday at 2:00pm (or at other times by special arrangement).  Bookings are essential, and are to be made at least 24 hours in advance.  Visitors are advised to wear sturdy footwear appropriate for walking.  All bookings are made online.

David and Anne Kernke have uncovered a diverse range of treasure at Shene

Passionate about Shene, David and Anne Kernke are keen to share their heritage property

The guided walking tour of Shene lasts approximately 90 minutes, but guests are welcome to stay on and appreciate the heritage experience.  The official tour concludes with High Tea served in the homestead, and features produce grown on the property at Shene.

The walking tour at Shene concludes with High Tea in the Georgian homestead

Shene Tasmania is located at 76 Shene Road Pontville.  It’s
about 30 minutes north of Hobart on the Midland Highway,
driving towards Launceston. For more details, contact
David and Anne Kernke on 0408 020 007 or visit the Shene website.
You can also follow Shene Tasmania on Facebook and Twitter.

If you like this article about Tasmania, and you’d like to read more, just subscribe to our newsletter or join us on Facebook.  If you really like this article, and you want others to see it, you can choose one of the “share” options below.  We’d love that!

Comments relevant to this article are also very welcome, just leave a reply below.

Map: Shene, Pontville Tasmania…

Richard Cowling is one interesting bloke.  He’s a high-ranking officer with Tasmania Police; an avid and well-travelled diver; an accomplished photographer and he makes a fabulous dinner companion.  I know all this, because Richard and his lovely fiancée Michelle, were guests at Red Feather Inn when we stayed at Watchhouse Cottage.

Michelle Sly, fiancée of Richard Cowling, at Red Feather Inn, Hadspen

Richard Cowling: Dinner Date

On the Friday evening, before our bush-tucker cooking school adventure, we enjoyed a fabulous shared-table meal with some fabulous people.  One of those at the table, was Richard Cowling.  Richard asked why I was taking photos.  I was quick to admit that I’m no photographer, but that I use images to enhance the stories I write for Think Tasmania.

Red Feather Inn Cooking School (Photo by Richard Cowling)

For every story, I take lots of photos, cross my fingers and hope that some of them turn out okay.  But during the Red Feather Inn visit, I suddenly had a much better plan.  Richard offered to take photos as well, and share any good ones with Think Tasmania.  Over the course of the weekend, I came to realise that ALL his photos were going to be way better than mine!

The courtyard and gardens of Red Feather Inn, captured by Richard Cowling

Mad Keane Photography: A Very Apt Business Name!

Richard Cowling leads a very busy life, but photography is such a passion, it has evolved into a second career.  He recently joined a portraiture business based in Launceston founded by Andrew and Katrina Keane.

Mad Keane Photography specialise in…

portrait, glamour, baby, event and wedding photography services.  Anything to do with capturing people and the special moments in their lives.

Red Feather Inn is an amazing place: something interesting at every angle

The photos featured here were taken over the weekend at Red Feather Inn and during the trip to Ben Lomond with Craig Williams of Pepper Bush Adventures.  Since then, I’ve seen some other photos taken by Richard Cowling, and he has a stunning portfolio.  Obviously good with people, he can take a mean scenery shot too.

Master Butcher Craig Williams (Pepper Bush Adventures) with guests from Red Feather Inn

Richard Cowling: Making a Great Photo

Richard has a special passion for black and white photography, and he’s also a member of the National Association of Photoshop Professionals.  Maybe that’s his secret?  Maybe I need to learn how to edit my photos; make them a bit more snazzy?  Okay, I know… I’m kidding myself.  You actually need some artistic talent to be a photographer, and that I don’t have!

At least I can appreciate a good image when I see one.

Richard Cowling: expert in Photoshop and black and white photography

Richard Cowling will be back at the Red Feather Inn Cooking School on
Saturday 28 April for another one of their classes.  We will share
some of his photos from the Game Day (Butchery Series) experience.

If you like this article about Tasmania, and you’d like to read more, just subscribe to our newsletter or join us on Facebook.  If you really like this article, and you want others to see it, you can choose one of the “share” options below.  We’d love that!

Comments relevant to this article are also very welcome, just leave a reply below.