Bulletin - Vol 8 No. 4 July/August 2005

Friends of Tasman Island Group established

by Christian Bell, Tasmanian State Representative, LoA Inc

The launch of Friends of Tasman Island was held on 30 May 2005. The meeting took place at the Lark Distillery on the waterfront (12 Davey Street, Hobart).

Present were Kathy Gatenby, Carol Jackson, Dee Webb, John Buckpitt, Dallas & Shirley Baker, Nikki (Horne) Verver, Laurene Kelly, Mike Emery, Don Clark (Rotary), Peter Wilson (Mayor of Tasman Council), Pip Buchanan, Margie Jenkin and Christian Bell. 

Before the launch of the group, a preliminary meeting was held on 2 May at which a discussion took place that covered a broad range of issues concerning both the cultural and natural heritage management of the island.

The most urgent task to be considered is the clearing of vegetation away from the heritage buildings and clearing of a firebreak.

Notices need to be placed around the area stating that there is an active management and community interest in preserving the site. 

One house at least should be in a condition to be occupied the rate of decay of the remaining buildings should at least be arrested until more resources to maintain them become available.

Given there has been a gap of twenty years since a manned presence was removed from Tasman, there is obviously considerably more work to be done than at Deal or Maatsuyker Islands. But because Tasman is on the Commonwealth Heritage List it presents on the other hand better opportunities to be able to apply for funds from the Commonwealth Government.

On 6 April 2006, the Lightstation will be 100 years old and the centenary would provide a great opportunity to promote the light and potentially secure resources for the maintenance of its cultural heritage. There could be opportunities for commercial sponsorship.

The launch of The Friends of Tasman Island attracted media coverage. ABC Radio pre-recorded an interview with Christian Bell and the Mercury did an interview with Carol Jackson. Carol Jackson provided a display and Kathy Gatenby contributed a photo album (consisting of their families time on Tasman Island). Carol also brought with her the radio log book from Tasman Island (1945-55). A copy of Margie Jenkins's recent thesis on Tasmanian keepers & their families was also perused. Much important networking took place. A more formal meeting of the new friends group will take place within a month. Thanks to the Lark Distillery for providing the venue.

Anyone who wants to get actively involved with the Friends of Tasman Island Group should become a member of Tasmania's Wildcare Group. The Friends of Tasman Island will also maintain a register of those with an interest in the Tasman. Email us and proclaim your interest in the island.

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