Tasmania’s East Coast is riding a wave of optimism amid a summer peak that is exceeding the wildest dreams of even the most jaded tourism operator, leading one hospitality to boss to declare the region is “creating a new culture”.

The future for renewable energy in Tasmania is looking brighter after the state's first large-scale solar farm got its council tick of approval.

A 288-megawatt solar farm, planned to be built at the historic Connorville property, was given unanimous approval by Northern Midlands councillors on December 11.

The Mercury provides excellent coverage of the Northern Suburbs development spear-headed by City of Launceston Council

With major natural disasters repeatedly damaging the St Mary’s Pass, an alternate route proposed by Break O’Day council is supported.