TASMANIA may have pulled up the drawbridge on the mainland but it doesn’t mean we are alone.
Now more than ever, we have to stick together as a state to get through the coronavirus pandemic.
This is why the Mercury is launching the #togetherfortassie campaign.
Alongside our news coverage we want to help unite the state during this crisis by providing practical support and advice, celebrating frontline workers, assisting businesses and helping to maintain community spirit in a time of isolation.
RELATED: TASMANIAN GUIDE TO EVERYTHING CANCELLED, POSTPONED OR CLOSED DUE TO CORONAVIRUS
LIVE LOUNGE
Many events have been cancelled but it doesn’t mean we can’t do things together.
We want to hear about and share live or streamed activities which will help keep people moving and connected.
We also want to share practical tips with those trying to maintain some sense of normalcy while in self-isolation.
Send us your ideas or events so we can spread the word.
It might be yoga or exercise classes, Q&As with health or work-from-home experts, or even local musicians and bands wanting to share their talents online.
If you have a story of kindness, caring idea or know a Tasmanian doing good deeds, please get in touch with us on Facebook or use the hashtag #togetherfortassie on social media.
The other #togetherfortassie categories:
HEALING FOR THE BODY AND MIND
DESPITE social distancing mandates, there’s still a way to salute the sun as a group, thanks to new outdoor community yoga classes in Hobart.
The free open-air sessions at Taroona will have yoga mats spread at least 2m apart, feature non-contact instruction and staggered changing room use.
“In meditation and yoga people need to feel safe so they can truly relax,” says event organiser Helen Page.
“People just want to be safe, for themselves and for others. What I’m offering is a supportive environment where people can work on their wellbeing and state of mind while being outside enjoying the sunshine.”
The mindset coach and yoga practitioner says that people, now more than ever, will need guidance and social activities to quell anxiety.
“Isolation can be very stressful. It’s already a problem in communities and will be more of a problem very soon,” Ms Page said.
“What I can offer is a means of connection. I just want to be valuable, and this is my way of reaching out to people to help them.
“The outside space means we can practise the distancing rule safely, we can move and help boost our immune systems and get together to share some good vibes that many of us need right now.”
Along with the free group classes, Ms Page will run paid classes in Vinyasa and Hatha at the Domain Tennis Centre at a reduced fee for concession holders, those working in the health profession, casual workers and anyone in the tourism or arts industries.
“I’m being proactive about people’s mental and physical wellbeing, for not just now but for the months to come,” she said.
“Everyone is welcome to come, whether it’s for vitality or strength or just to socialise.
“And the stadium space means we’re able to maintain distance in a discreet space.”
Open Air Taroona runs every Saturday at the Taroona High School oval from 2-3pm, with free entry.
Open Air Hobart is $10 for select professions, and $15 for others.
— SUSAN OONG
RUN GOES VIRTUAL TO FIGHT CANCER
CORONAVIRUS is not the only disease communities are rallying against, with this cancer awareness fun run going virtual for the first time in its 22-year history.
The Mother’s Day Classic, often attracting up to 2000 participants in Hobart alone, has crafted an “innovative” solution to the unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic.
Hobart event manager Nikki Jones said participants could walk or run 4km or 8km any time on or before Mother’s Day.
“You can do it at home, with family or gym buddies – there’s so many options,” she said.
“We recommend using phones or Fitbits to count steps, or you can go on a treadmill.”
She said she was proud and “very excited” the event could go ahead to raise funds for the National Breast Cancer Foundation.
“When tough times happen, we need to come up with new ideas to ensure events go ahead,” she said.
Registration of $25 will grant participants access to their own online page to post content, and access wellness tips and giveaway opportunities.
The $45 package will add a race bib and medallion to the mix.
MDC Foundation CEO Zara Lawless said more than $37 million had been donated over the event’s history, contributing to a 15 per cent increase in the five-year survival rate since 1994.
Registrations are open at mothersdayclassic.com.au for people to participate on or before Sunday, May 10.
— ANNIE MCCANN
If you have a story of kindness, caring idea or know a Tasmanian doing good deeds, please get in touch with us on Facebook or use the hashtag #togetherfortassie on social media.
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