The Express Newspaper 10th March 2021

EXPRESS A LIFE Delivering news across our region

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WEDNESDAY, MARCH 10, 2021

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OF GIVING After a lifetime of giving back and helping those in need, Bill and Chris Fairbrother of Yungaburra have decided to slow down and retire from official duties. Having lived on the Tablelands for the past 30 years, the tireless couple worked as chaplains at the Lotus Glen Correctional facility and during their time were foster carers to more than 100 children in need. ˃ FULL STORY P7

EXPRESS Rowena has the world at her feet The

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MANAGING DIRECTOR Carl Portella

OFFICE MANAGER Natasha Burton

JOURNALIST Phil Brandel

PAPER MANAGER Natasha Srhoj

MARKETING / PHOTOGRAPHER Darryl Day

MARKETING EXECUTIVE Sarah Quinn

CADET JOURNALIST Rhys Thomas

CIRCULATION 13,000

The Express is published by Portasea Pty Ltd, 141 Constance St, Mareeba QLD 4880. ACN: 141 250 213 Printed by Townsville print centre, 623-645 Flinders St. Townsville QLD 4810

A LOCAL travel consultant and race day fashionista is off to Brisbane in a few weeks to compete in the Queensland State Finals of Miss World Australia.

In 2019, Mareeba’s Rowena Petersen was accepted into the preliminary final of the Miss World competition, which then took her to the Gold Coast to compete in March of last year.

Now in just a few short weeks, Rowena will be off to compete in the State Final to be held at the Hotel Grand Chancellor on March 26 .

Judging is based on a three sections – highest fundraiser, modelling and public speaking.

Miss World started in 1951 and has since raised more than $250 million dollars for children’s charities around the world. Two Australian representatives have won the Miss World title, first in 1968 and then again 1972.

If Rowena gets through to the next round, she will then be off to the national final which then could lead to international finals.

So far Rowena has raised just over $4000 for Variety Australia, the children’s charity and said she will keep raising money up until the date of the state finals.

“I can keep raising money right up until the day before the finals,” she said.

Rowena said she wants to make a difference in the lives of Aussie kids in need.

“I'm inspired by the work of Variety Australia and wanted to support them by raising money,” said Rowena.

“The more people that know about Variety Australia, the greater their impact.”

To donate to Variety and help Rowena get to the national final go to www.miss-worldaustralia-2020.raisely.com/rowena-petersen

Rowena Petersen during her speaking section at the preliminary state final in March of last year on the Gold Coast. Rowena is now off to the Queensland State Final of Miss World Australia later this month.

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Questions remain over bridge safety

BY PHIL BRANDEL

QUESTIONS remain over the future and safety of the Barron River Bridge at Kuranda after the Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) announced that a report into the bridge would be handed to the Roads and Transport Minister before the end of February, but as of deadline it appears that this hasn’t happened.

The delay of the report and the admission from TMR that the report would not be released to the public has many local residents and politicians nervous.

The bridge was closed to one lane of traffic and new weight restrictions were put in place in November of last year.

Last week the TMR issued a statement about the current situation with the bridge.

“The Barron River Bridge report is currently being finalised and we are continuing inspections,” A spokesperson wrote.

“We understand the strong community interest and will provide an update as soon as possible.

“This update will include advice about the duration of the single-lane closure.

“The single-lane closure is a precaution while we carry out investigations.

“The average delay is less than two minutes.

“The bridge is safe. We thank motorists and residents for their patience.”

Member for Kennedy Bob Katter said motorists had a right to know if the bridge was safe to use and how long the single lane access and weight restrictions will remain in place.

“Either it is safe, or it is not safe, and it certainly looks like it is not when we get a response like this,” Mr Katter said.

Mr Katter said he will be writing to the Qld Transport Minister, Mark Bailey regarding the Bridge.

“I will demand a copy of the report,” Mr Katter said.

“We are being treated as mugs in North Queensland.

The State Government would not be keeping Brisbane residents in the dark like this, and they would be spending money

to fix the situation. They are now estimated to spend $7B on Brisbane’s Cross River Rail, meanwhile we are down to one lane at the Kennedy Highway at Kuranda with no action from the State Government in sight.”

Kuranda local Howard Small is not happy about TMR’s stance on the report of the bridge and has started a petition to lobby the state government into releasing details of the bridge.

“I believe it is time for the public to be heard and I have started a petition to that effect,” Mr Small said.

“We are all impacted by the lane closure on the Barron River Bridge at Kuranda but are being kept in the dark by the Department of Transport and Main

TMR staff carrying out inspections underneath the Barron River Bridge.

this publicly-funded report, the property of all citizens, on the spurious grounds that it is a technical document, apparently beyond the capacity of the public to understand,” he said.

“We need this report and any other information that TMR has or obtains in the future so we can understand what risk the bridge presents to our safety and future well-being.”

To add your name to the petition, go to http://chng.it/ vDv7TbKv2W or search for Release the Kuran0da Bridge Report at Change.org

Roads which has denied the public access to the promised report that was due to completed in February.

“The effect on the public is so great that we are entitled to a full and frequent disclosure

by TMR on this issue and plans to resolve it. To deny us access to the promised report is unacceptable and I have started an on-line petition in an attempt resolve this.”

Mr Small said he is not happy that TMR have claimed that the general public would not be able to understand the report.

“TMR is refusing to release

Chamber questions State Government on youth crime

THE Mareeba Chamber of Commerce (MCOC) is once again pressuring the Queensland Government to crack down harder on youth crime.

After a string of youth related crime incidents at the end of January residents were in the crosshairs with several cars being smashed and buildings being vandalized.

Two crime rallies were held

in both Mareeba and Atherton where many concerned residents attended and discussed options and ways to reduce youth crime.

Only after this did the government make any move to address it but for many residents these measures do not do enough.

The measures taken by the Queensland Government are mainly reactive approach-

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es, while many residents are screaming to have crime stopped before it happens.

MCOC president Joe Moro said the Mareeba Community was growing increasingly frustrated with the lack of action on youth crime.

“The Chamber appreciates the solution to solving youth crime does not have a “one-sizefits-all” approach,” he said.

“It requires a coordinated, whole-of-community solution however the community expects those that break the law to be punished appropriately.”

Mr Moro said that while the Queensland Police Service is doing good work, they are under-resourced to combat the volume of youth crime.

“The Chamber would like to see more police resources and

more night patrols in Mareeba, particularly in the CBD,” he said.

While the Chamber is pressuring the Queensland Government, Mr Moro is imploring residents to do their part to.

It is important that all incidents of crime were reported to the QPS so a true and accurate picture can be represented.

“Having a true and accurate

picture of the crime issue will help communities such as Mareeba lobby for increased resources for policing and social welfare programs,” Mr Moro said.

“The issue of youth crime goes behind our judicial system, however, first and foremost we need to ensure that statistics represent a true and accurate picture.”

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Celebrating extraordinary women

Margie Bestmann of Mareeba was recognised as the winner in the open category of the 2021 Blackmores Mercie Whellan Women+Wellbeing Awards for her grass roots support of mental health in the community.

The 2021 International Women’s Day theme was “Women in Leadership” and on Monday, March 8 women across Australia who have shown outstanding leadership in supporting people’s mental health and wellbeing were recognised with one of our very own locals amongst the award winners.

IN celebration of International Women’s Day on Monday March 8, Blackmores was proud to announce the winners of the 2021 Blackmores Mercie Whellan Women+Wellbeing Awards, with one local lady being recognised for her work within the community and afar.

Margie Bestmann, mental health advocate and Mareeba local was recognised as the winner in the open category for her grass roots support of mental health in her community.

Following the death of her husband as a consequence of mental illness in 2016, Margie has been committed to not only advocating for better support service, but arranging training and education for community members, raising awareness within rural families and providing personal support to numerous people struggling with their mental health.

Margie has worked with the local state high school to build young peoples’ awareness and understanding of mental health

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She has spoken at assemblies and supported the student council in their creation of Mental Health Week including the development of a video that is now widely used at local events and has even been adopted by James Cook University School of Medicine as a training tool for medical students.

Margie coordinates a Mental Health and Wellbeing Hub at the Rotary FNQ Field Days, the largest agricultural day in Northern Australia, with 8,000 people coming through the gates each day of the three-day event.

These annual awards named after Blackmores trailblazer Sister Mercie Whellan celebrate women across Australia who have made an outstanding contribution to their local community by improving people’s health and wellbeing, with a focus on mental wellbeing.

As Australia’s leading natural health company, Blackmores takes a holistic wellness approach that recognises the im-

portance of both a healthy body and a healthy mind.

“Support for mental wellbeing is an area of great need in today’s world with growing concerns about managing stress, anxiety and depression,” said Raffaele D’Alisa, Director of Corporate Citizenship at Blackmores.

“Over the course of the past year, starting with bushfires and the ongoing pandemic, many of us found our confidence in the future threatened, but none more so than the marginalised and vulnerable.

“With the global UN theme for International Women’s Day (IWD) 2021 being – Women in Leadership: Achieving an equal future in a COVID-19 world – Blackmores celebrated International Women’s Day by acknowledging women in Australia who have gone to extraordinary lengths to help those who need support with their mental wellbeing and shine a light on their important contribution to the community.”

HR help for local businesses DO you get stressed when it comes to employing staff? Are you considering expanding your team? Do you want to know how to recruit staff who are engaged, committed and are a good fit for your business?

Help is here. Tablelands Regional Council is running a series of free one-hour workshops to help navigate the human resources (HR) landscape.

“Businesses expect their staff to be high performing team members who follow direction and are great for business, 100% of the time,” said Councillor Dave Bilney.

“If you’re a business owner and your reality is not meeting your expectations, then this session will provide you with the knowledge and skills to make it happen.

“The ‘HR – The Good, The Bad and The Ugly’ sessions will help you avoid industrial relations pitfalls, have difficult conversations, establish good HR practices and find information and help.

“These sessions show our ongoing support for business in our region.”

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Katter to leverage his power

BY PHIL BRANDEL

Bob Katter at the Barron River bridge in Kuranda, is advocating a new highway between Mareeba and Cairns.

KENNEDY MP Bob Katter says he now has the balance of power in Federal Parliament after controversial MP and member for Hughes, Craig Kelly, resigned from the Liberal party and moved to the cross bench last week.

Mr Katter said his vote will now be critical for the Morrison Government to maintain a working majority and that his two priorities when negotiating with the Federal Government are to build infrastructure that will populate inland Australia and to reduce the soaring cost of living that is affecting all Australians.

Mr Katter said he has a long wish list of projects that he will be putting pressure on the government to start or complete, including, the proposed Copperstring 2.0 transmission line (that will connect the North West Minerals Province to the National Electricity Market), as well as continued support for the irrigation projects at Hughenden, Big Rocks Weir and the Hells Gates Dam (Revised Bradfield Scheme).

In the Far North Queensland region, Mr Katter is pushing for funding for the North Johnstone Transfer water scheme and a new highway from Mareeba to Cairns, that he said will unlock the economic potential of the region.

“I have made it clear to Government Ministers that if we do not populate inland Aus-

tralia it will be taken off us,” Mr Katter said.

“Our North Queensland based party, the KAP, has been consistently advocating for these projects that will turn things around for the future of this country. 90 per cent of the Australian continent is occupied by less than one million people.

“If you build an irrigation scheme at Hughenden the population will grow from 1,000 to 10,000 people. The industry that will flow from Copperstring and Hells Gates Dam will see North Queensland’s population increase to more than one million people.”

Mr Katter said he was sick of seeing economic rationalism rather than economic nationalism as the preferred policy setting of Australian governments.

“We need direct government investment into infrastructure, rather than more broad ranged funds that haven’t been delivering.”

Mr Katter and fellow Katter Australia Party State Member for Hill, Shane Knuth now have a petition available to sign in their offices in support of getting a new road built joining Cairns and the Tablelands.

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Entsch postpones retirement to run again ON election night in 2019, longstanding Federal Member for Leichardt Warren Entsch announced that he would not re-run in 2022, a decision he has now overturned.

Now instead of enjoying some quiet time gardening or relaxing on a beach, Mr Entsch will once again throw his hat in the ring for the next election to represent his electorate of Leichardt.

Mr Entsch was approached by several tourism, business and community leaders across his region urging him to postpone his retirement.

They argued that his experience, connections and credibility was what the region needed to recover from the devastating

effects that COVID has wrought on Australia.

“Our region was one of the first to be severely impacted by the pandemic and we will be one of the last to recover,” Mr Entsch said.

“I feel it is incumbent on me during these uncertain times to continue to support our community and it’s residents for as long as it takes.

“My experience will ensure our community continues to have strong, effective and stable leadership during these unprecedented times.”

The next federal election is due to take place before May 2022, if Mr Entsch succeeds this will be his third term as the member for Leichardt.

Federal Member for Leichardt Warren Entsch and his wife Yolonde voting on election day in 2019.

Mr Entsch’s decision to delay his retirement sends a message that the effects of COVID are still being felt by communities across the Far North, support is still needed and he is happy to oblige.

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The Express, Wednesday, March 10, 2021 PAGE 5

Multicultural Festival back on in 2021

Sabrina Lianver, Jennifer Murat, Fitina Netou and Giuliano Cordenos are all looking forward to this year’s Mareeba Multicultural Festival in August.

Australian Government

SPLASHES of colour and the smell of food will fill Arnold Park in August as the Mareeba Multicultural Festival is set to make its return, filling the hearts and tummies of locals and visitors.

The Mareeba Multicultural Festival was cancelled last year due to COVID, however planning is now underway for the event to be held on Saturday, August 28.

The Festival is well looked forward to by many members of Mareeba and surrounding towns as they flock to Arnold Park for a day full of food, dance and fun.

Mareeba Multicultural Festival president Jennifer Murat is excited for the festival to be held this year after being put on

a one-year COVID hiatus.

“The committee are excited to be able to hopefully plan the event and for it to go ahead this year,” she said.

“We have been contacted by previous performers and stall holders asking questions and inquiring about this year’s festival.

“We’re trying to make this event as safe as we can.”

Fingers crossed that this year, planned events will go ahead with minimal to no disruptions after the bare year of events we witnessed last year.

For more information on the upcoming festival and when to book your performance or stall, keep an eye on the Mareeba Multicultural Festival Facebook page.

Field Days search for 2021 official guide cover photo

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WITH the Rotary FNQ Field Days just months away, the search is on for an outstanding photo to feature on the cover of their official exhibitor guide.

The Biennial event is putting the call out to local photographers, professional or amateur, to submit their best rural or agricultural image for the 2021 cover competition.

Rotary FNQ Field Days committee chair Trevor Duncan said that the competition aims to encompass the Field Days and our region.

“We’re trying to find something that personifies the rural aspect and the local aspect of the Field Days,” he said.

“The last guide photo was perfect because it showed the old tractor and the young boy, the future of farming.”

The guide is jammed packed with key-info, maps, information, articles and profiles about the largest field days event in Northern Australia.

Industry professionals and agricultural tycoons all visit Kerribee Park at the end of May for the massive three-day event selling their products and their stories.

Mr Duncan said that this year the exhibition sales have already passed expectations.

“Our exhibitor bookings are massive, we had a huge uptake of sites when we released them

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Rotary FNQ Field Days marketing coordinator Jeanette Sturiale and official guide coordinator Natasha Srhoj, with the winning photo that appeared on the cover of the 2019 offical guide.

early November last year,” he said.

“We ended up putting in another row of big sites because they had all sold out.

“This indicates this year will be bigger compared to past years.”

Photos are required to be of high resolution and in portrait to fit on the guide.

The photo competition closes on April 1, so get out there and behind the lens for your chance to feature your photo on the cover for all to see.

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Life changing locals set for retirement tact with a lot of the foster children she helped raise.

“A lot of them have grown up, gotten married and had their own children and have stayed in contact and we get photos of their children which makes us very happy,” she said.

For all of her community work Chris was awarded an

Bill and Chris Fairbrother of Yungaburra are calling it a day and getting ready to enjoy retirement after nearly 20 years of giving back to those in need.

BY PHIL BRANDEL A YUNGABURRA couple who served as chaplains at the Lotus Glen Correctional Facility for nearly 20 years and foster cared for more than 100 children have decided to call it a day and start their retirement.

Before moving to Yungaburra just over 30 years ago, Bill and Chris Fairbrother lived and worked in remote Cape York communities.

The couple will also celebrate their 60th wedding anniversary this easter and have now decided to spend more time together and with their family. Chris said that they were originally invited by another Chaplin to volunteer at the jail.

“We were invited into Lotus Glen to wander around and meet some of the inmates and for a while we were resource workers, holding courses for the inmates,” she said.

After a few years, the Fairbrother’s were asked to become the prison chaplains.

“It meant we had the full run

of the prison and could talk to the inmates in their units,” Chris said.

“Sometimes we visited a couple times a week, but we liked to visit the jail minimum once a week.

“It was a great feeling working in the jail, the inmates were always open to having a chat or asking for advice.”

Chris said she always felt safe. “The people in there are just like you and me when they’re not drinking or getting into trouble, I felt safe at all times,” she said.

“A lot of them were interested in talking to us about how they could change their lives, so we would explain right from wrong and explaining how domestic violence works and how they should always walk away.

“Once people got out, we were not supposed to contact them, but we would often get stopped in the street and they would tell us how they had turned their life around and would give us updates on their life.”

Chris and Bill had three chil-

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dren of their own and over the past 30 years they also foster cared for more than 100 children.

“We started fostering in the 1970’s after we saw an advertisement for foster carers,” Chris said.

“Our first foster child was born deaf and she lived with us for four years. After she moved on, we enquired about taking care of other children.

“We ended up with a lot of children who were born with disabilities and we cared for a lot who were born very sick.

“We mostly looked after sick infants that stayed with us for a year or two until they became better and were ready to go into permanent care.”

Chris admits that it was hard raising a baby and then having to let go.

“We understand that we never posses a child, we only care for children,” she said.

“Even though you love them as much as your own children it’s always good if they are going onto a better situation later.”

Chris said she is still in con-

OAM as part of the Australia Day Honors list on January 2021, for service to children, and to the community.

An acknowledgement that Chris said she would not have received if not for her husband.

“Even though I received the medal, Bill and I have done all the hard work together,” she

said.

Even though they have retired from the jail, Chris said that they would never really retire from the community. 0 “We are very involved in our local Anglican church in Yungaburra and we do lot of gardening and I volunteer in the local op shop, so we are always busy.”

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Trial to curb recycling waste underway

Tablelands Regional Council has started a three month kerbside recycling initiative to stop useful materials going to landfill

A THREE month trial transporting kerbside recycling initiative has been initiated by the Tablelands Regional Council (TRC) to curb the number of recyclable materials going to landfill.

The material will now be sent to the Cairns Regional Council Materials Recovery Facility (MRF) for processing.

In 2019 TRC sent 6402 tonnes of rubbish to landfill compared to 537 tonnes to their MRF, a comparison which Council seeks to change.

TRC Deputy Mayor Kevin Cardew said that Council was

forced to close their own MRF facility last year due to COVID contamination.

“During that time and up until now, we’ve been forced to send all our recycling to landfill which is definitely not ideal,” he said.

“This is just one of the initiatives we are exploring as part of the development of a Waste Strategy for the region.

“A key objective of the strategy is to investigate cost efficiencies while minimising the amount of waste that goes to landfill.”

The initiative is set to start

this month and will run until the trial ends in May, this will ensure that for those three months there will be less recyclable material going to waste in landfill.

“Each piece of waste produced and disposed of to landfill means that valuable natural resources have been lost and landfill space is reduced,” Cr Cardew said.

Once the trial has ended the waste will continue to be sent to landfill until the Waste Strategy is finalised and the recommendations are implemented.

Croydon now have fresh produce and less water waste with their new Aquaponics Centre available for the community to access.

Croydon’s Aquaponics creates jobs and less waste

CROYDON will now have fresh produce and less water waste with their new Aquaponics Centre now available for the community to access.

Aquaponics is a sustainable way to grow food by using the waste produce of farmed fish or other aquatic life to supply nutrients to the plants being grown.

Children and their carers from Croydon After School Care were the first to visit the centre on February 18 with other community members following later that afternoon to see the town's exciting new innovation.

CEO of Northern Gulf Resource Management Group Zoe Williams says this is a big step in sustainable agriculture.

“This project was started due to having very limited supply of local fresh food in Croydon and this is the response for much needed food security,” she said.

“The centre is open to volunteers in the community who can take home some fresh produce

PAGE 8 The Express, Wednesday, March 10, 2021

at the end of the day, “The system is very water efficient by recycling water, with 120 black brim (fish) providing the main source of nutrients to keep it going.”

The Aquaponic centre was built in partnership with the Tagalaka Aboriginal Corporation who will be taking over when the program ends in June.

“When the program finishes, the aboriginal community will take over and maybe start up their own business and employ locals to sell fresh produce at a reasonable price.” Ms Williams said.

Community members who visited the centre were treated with a sausage sizzle and fresh produce harvested straight from the aquaponics garden.

The project is funded by a Commonwealth/State Disaster Recovery Funding arrangement with funding contributions from the Australian and Queensland Governments under the Community Development program.

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

The new John Cole Toyota building in Atherton is taking shape.

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Dealership construction on track

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AFTER five years of planning and design preparation, development has well and truly commenced on the new John Cole Toyota Atherton dealership at 7813 Kennedy Highway.

The new building will be home to both Toyota and Isuzu showrooms, used vehicles, a state-of-the-art workshop and a body and paint centre.

Trevor Cole, Manager and son of John Cole said locals and staff were looking for forward to the new building.

“So far community feedback has been sensational,” he said.

“Residents and staff can’t wait to see what it looks like.”

Once the new building is finished Mr Cole said they will be able to show more vehicles in the showroom.

“Our workshop area will be three times bigger, our panel

shop will be moved and both of them will be state of the art,” he said.

“The new premises will entice people to shop and work here and we will definitely be looking for more staff once the building is open and the business grows.

“We are building this to employ more locals and keep locals in town.

“John is not doing this for him, he is doing it for the community and the people that work for him.

“He is building for the future growth of the town.”

Royce Slade, who is the Director of Keir Design and construction said local contractors were given priority in the building of the new development.

“We have over 20 local Tablelands subcontractors, suppli-

ers and businesses involved in the development and construction, of this site,” he said.

“The project will take about nine months from start to finish and the expected completion date in June of this year.

“We have about 20 to 30 guys on site at any given time.”

Mr Slade said the new building would include a 1,700m2 new and used vehicle showroom, offices and amenities, a 1,200m2 workshop with associated facilities and a 700m2 paint and panel facility.

“As well as over 1,200m3 of concrete in the building,” he said.

“Even though we have had a lot of wet weather lately we are still on track for opening in mid-2021.

“To see John Cole Toyota investing in Atherton and de-

veloping something like this is great for the Tablelands and Keir Qld are very proud to be associated with the project.”

RDATN support to continue REGIONAL Development Australia Tropical North (RDATN) has been extended to June 30, 2025 under a new funding agreement.

David Kempton (pictured) has been reappointed as Chair and Brett Moller as Deputy Chair while the rest of the committee have all accepted reappointment.

Mr Kempton will lead RDATN under a refreshed charter, focusing on driving investment and local procurement opportunities.

This will create local jobs and stimulate economic growth for all our regions.

The Hon Nola Marino MP, Assistant Minister for Regional Development, made the announcement.

“I am pleased to announce the reappointment of David Kempton to 30 June 2025,” she said.

“David has provided strong

leadership for RDATN during his time as Chair.

“Having successfully steered the committee through the challenges of 2020 and, along with the members and staff, provided great support for the region’s business community and future economic development.”

In accepting reappointment as Chair, Mr Kempton said he was looking forward to carrying forward all the good work the organization has achieved.

“We have formed a strong alliance with FNQROC to become the conduit to Federal and State Governments,” he said.

“This was done to drive the regional agenda and assist industry, business, regional development organizations and local authorities to develop and present a uniform strategy for our future.”

Mr Kempton also added that the RDATN will be encouraging all major participants in

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the region to work together and restore existing industries and identify and promote new opportunities.

Sonja Johnson will be re-assuming her role of Chief Executive Officer, as CEO of RDATN from 2012 to 2014, Sonja brings a wealth of experience to the organization to accompany her deep understanding of the region.

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The Express, Wednesday, March 10, 2021 PAGE 9

New mural to tell story of school Mareeba State School is on track to have a new mural painted on their old school hall, depicting the school’s history and what happens inside the gates.

Currently the old school hall’s back wall sticks out like a sore thumb on the Constance Street side of the school, Principal Hannah Simpson has plans to change that.

She has enlisted the help of the community and a past teacher aid with impressive artistic talent to give the kids and parents something to admire.

The mural will take inspiration from the school’s history, students, classes, activities and even community suggestions.

“We know that it’s important to have an environment that the kids feel welcome in,” Mrs Simpson said.

“This year we’re all about invigorating our environment and that’s what we’re trying to do here.

“My hopes are to have this school beautified in every aspect.”

Mrs Simpson is hoping that teachers will be able to utilize the wall as a teaching point when it is fully finished.

Loretta Scamolla has been given the task to bring the schools vision for its mural to life, a job which she is quite suited for according to Mrs Simpson.

“Loretta was formally one of our prep teacher aids and she’s exceptionally creative,” she said.

“She’s putting all those ideas together in a rolling mural along the wall.”

“We used her expertise while she was onsite and now, she’s going to help us do this.”

This mural is just the first of many that is planned for MSS as they enact their vision of a visual learning experience for both the students and the community.

Mareeba State School Principal Hannah Simpson is excited for a mural to be done on the outside of the old school hall.

Local affordable art

Gioia Dalla Lana with some of her affordable art which is on sale now at Gallery 86 in Mareeba.

LOCAL art lovers looking to invest is some affordable art, are in for a treat after Dimbulah artist Gioia Dalla Lana opened her “affordable art” exhibition at Gallery 86 at the Mareeba Art Society Building in Centenary Park.

The official opening was held on Friday, March 5 and the exhibition will stay open until the end of March or until everything is sold.

Gioia Dalla Lana is a local artist who runs monthly introductory art classes the Art Society and most of the painting were ex demos.

“When I’m running the art classes, I always like to give a step-bystep demonstration and these are some of the demonstrations that I have kept over the years,” she said.

Ms Dalla Lana said the most expensive paintings were $100.

“Most of the paintings are in the 20-to-30-dollar range, and the cheapest are 10 dollars.” she said.

“We have lost of paintings of local bush, animals and flowers and there are over 70 paintings up for sale and the exhibition will run until the end of March.”

Gallery 86 is located beside the Mareeba Art Society building in Centenary park and is open seven days a week between 10am and 2pm, entry is free.

Get set to colour in to win GETS your pencils, crayons and art supplies ready as The Express Easter Colouring in Competition kicks off this week.

The competition will run until 12 noon on Thursday, April 1 with one winner being chosen

by The Express team and notified by phone on the day.

The winner must be able to come in to the office to pick up their prize from the office on 186 Byrnes Street in Mareeba.

By entering the competition, you are agreeing to allow The Express to publish your name and use any photos that will be taken upon collection of the prize.

Kids will have to cut/ print out and colour, paint or craft up their colouring and bring it into the office for judging.

The colouring will be on the Expresso page of the paper and on Facebook for the month of March.

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The Express, Wednesday, March 10, 2021 PAGE 10

Momentous boost for Epilepsy research

BY RHYS THOMAS A CHANGE of life is on the cards for those living with epilepsy after the Australian Government invested the largest single sum towards epilepsy research ever in Australia.

The Australian Epilepsy Project (AEP) was handed $30 million courtesy of the Australian Government’s Medical Research Future Fund, with all money going towards research to better understand epilepsy.

Epilepsy is a brain condition that affects three in every 100 Australians, it can induce seizures, fits and loss of consciousness.

Epilepsy is not one single condition, there are actually numerous types of epilepsy that all affect a person in a different way.

This funding is welcoming news to Patty Poutanen who has been living with Clonic epilepsy since she was eight years old.

The 53-year old Mareeba born travel agent experienced her first epileptic fit when she was in grade 11.

“I’ve had quite a few epileptic fits throughout my life, it is obviously managed through medicine,” she said.

Everyone who suffers from epilepsy has their own triggers that can cause a fit, they can range from the mainstream flashing lights, down to lack of sleep or dehydration.

“Excessive alcohol is one of my triggers and when your younger and going out you don’t

like to admit that, so I had a few fits when I used to go out,” Patty said.

“For me I don’t know what happens, I blank out and talk gibberish, I fit and fall and within 40 minutes I wake up often in an ambulance or in emergency.”

Many people were cautious of those suffering from epilepsy and some were often shunned by others, this is due to a lack of knowledge and research around

opportunity for Australian researchers and clinicians to effectively rewrite the books for epilepsy diagnosis and change lives.”

This mission is something that Patty strongly supports, as she believes that there is not enough research done around epilepsy.

“The taboo is that you can get discriminated because of the lack

“I refuse to let epilepsy define me, I’m confident, I know what I want, I refuse to live in a bubble.” the condition.

The AEP is a research group working to dispel a lot of rumors and misconceptions around epilepsy and research the condition in depth to help understand it.

Professor Graeme Jackson, a world-leading neurologist and epilepsy researcher at the Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, will lead the AEP. “The AEP will transform the medical journey of Australians living with epilepsy,” he said.

“Saving them from years of uncertainty, trial and error medication approaches, serious sideeffects and the constant disruption of countless appointments, tests and referrals.

“This is a once-in-a-lifetime

of information around epilepsy,” she said.

“I’ve had to hide the fact that I’m epileptic on the grounds that I might not get a job.”

Despite the dangers and risks of having a fit, Patty continues to do things that she enjoys including traveling, often on her own.

“I travel, I love being on my own, even if that’s one of the things I shouldn’t be doing, I do it,” she said.

“You have to be careful yes, but I do things independently as well.

“I refuse to let epilepsy define me, I’m confident, I know what I want, I refuse to live in a bubble.”

Patty Poutanen has been living with epilepsy since she was a child, however that has not stopped her from doing some of her favourite things in life.

Product of Australia

Product of Australia

Product of Australia

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The Express, Wednesday, March 10, 2021 PAGE 11

100 years of Bruna Biancotti

Free breast screens for Tablelands women A FREE mobile breast screening service is currently available at the Atherton Showgrounds and BreastScreen Queensland (BSQ) is urging local women over the age of 40 to receive a screening.

The Atherton Mobile Service is said to have the same state-ofthe-art technology as the clinics in Cairns and promises the same quality of care.

Tablelands Regional Council (TRC) Councillor Anette Haydon says that regular screening saves lives, including her own mothers.

“My mother survived breast cancer and it is a tough battle that we should do everything we can to avoid,” she said.

“We owe it to ourselves to prioritise breast screening and need to stop finding excuses not to make the call, giving ourselves the best chance of a healthy and long future.

“The specialised screening service comes to our region, so it’s up to us to take the last few steps.”

The service operates on a two-yearly cycle, returning at the end of 2022, to meet the recommendations of mammographic screening.

The screening takes around 30 minutes and takes photos of the breast tissue to find any irregularities, often before the patient can feel it themselves.

BSQ strongly advises that women aged 50-74 get a screening every two years due to statistics growing in their age range.

No doctor referral is required and the van will be stationed at Atherton Showgrounds until mid March 2021.

For more information or to book an appointment call 132050 or visit www.breastscreen.qld.gov.au

Bruna Biancotti with her letter from Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II on her 100th Birthday.

BY ELLIE FINK WHEN the stock market was at its alltime high and jazz bands had the hype, Bruna Biancotti was taking her very first breath in Italy.

This year she celebrated her 100th birthday with her close family by her side

at Herberton Aged Care Facility with her regular cheeky smile on her face the whole day.

Bruna’s life began in Santorso, Italy on March 2 1921 as a sibling to Lidia, Ada and Mario Berlato.

She immigrated to Australia when she was two years old and was believed to

have cried the whole boat trip over causing both her mother and the nurse grief.

She spent her early years in Silkwood Queensland and later moved to the Atherton Tablelands where her family shared farmland.

At the ripe age of 10 years old Bruna was milking cows and picking corn all by hand with the only machinery available to her being a horse drawn cart.

She dreamed of becoming a nurse when she grew up but was not allowed to as her father told her, “no daughter of mine is going to bath men!.”

Later in life, Bruna was struck by cupid’s arrow and fell in love with an Italian man Ron Biancotti and they were wedded March 15 1944.

Soon enough they had four children, Tony (deceased), Renetta (deceased), Louie and Mario.

Bruna’s family started their business as the owners of Superstar Milkbar and Café which still stands in Atherton today.

She used to live in her very own two storey building until the age of 98.

She was very proud of this but was then moved to the Aged Care facility at Herberton Hospital due to a decline in her eyesight and a few falls.

Her grandson David Halps travelled from his home in Brisbane to be with Bruna on her special day and says she had the whole family laughing with joy.

“At her Birthday party on Tuesday, I was doing a little speech, of which Bruna may have thought was going on too long and she just jumped in and yelled ‘hiphip hooray’“ he said.

“Bruna has always had a fantastic memory as she would be able to remember any family event down to the finest detail.

“Her favourite saying is “I’ll give you a punch in the nose” in response to us being cheeky back to her.”

r u o r y e p b a a p s Gr w e n l a c : o l s n e o i u t tr a c o l g n i w o l l o f e at th

CHILLAGOE: Almaden Hotel, Chillagoe Post Office, Chillagoe General Store, Chillagoe Hotel and Post Office Hotel.

COOKTOWN: Cooktown IGA, Cooktown News, Sovereign Hotel, Caltex Cooktown, MAREEBA: Palmer River Roadhouse, Cooktown Hotel, Lakeland Downs Hotel, Mareeba News, Piagno’s News, Mareeba Discount Drug Store, Shell Lakeland Roadhouse and Lakeland Coffee House.

Mareeba Service Station, BP Mareeba, Mareeba IGA, MT MOLLOY: Curcio’s Bakery, Mobil Service Station Mareeba, Termite, Mt Molloy Post Office and Mt Molloy Store.

Portsmith Fuels, Biboohra Cash Store, Post Office Centre Mareeba, KARUMBA: Mareeba Leagues Club and all good business outlets.

Post Office Karumba, Karumba Pharmacy and Carpentaria Fuels.

ATHERTON: Summers News, Phillips News, Mobile Atherton, Fresh St. Market IGA, GEORGETOWN: Ampol Roadhouse, Midway Caravan Park and Georgetown Hospital.

Puma Service Station Atherton, Atherton International Club, Atherton NORMANTON: Bakehouse, Café on Louise, Atherton Feed & Saddle Shed, Tableland One Stop Shop, Normanton Trader and Garden Café.

Fertilizers Atherton, Community Services Tablelands, Atherton Visitor MT SURPRISE: Centre, Carrington Hotel Atherton, Woolworths Atherton, Woolworths Post Office and Mt Surprise Service Station.

Servo Atherton and Cottage Cafe.

CROYDON: SOUTHERN TABLELANDS: Gulf Gate Roadhouse and Croydon General Store.

Tolga News, Mobil Service Station Tolga, Cash Store Walkamin, Malanda Spar, Caltex Malanda, Marano’s Malanda, Tobin’s Millaa EINASLEIGH: Millaa, Yungaburra Foodworks, Yungaburra Pit Stop, Kairi Store, Post Office and Einasleigh Council.

Herberton News, Herberton 5 Star, Wondecla Roadhouse, Ravenshoe FORSAYTH: News, Ravenshoe Hiland Bakery, Foodworks Ravenshoe, Ravenshoe Store and Post Office and Goldfield Tavern.

Information Centre, Marano’s Ravenshoe, Tall Timbers Roadhouse, MOSSMAN: Mt Garnet Post Office, Cornett’s Ravenshoe, Ravenshoe Information Port Douglas IGA and Mossman News.

Centre, Malanda Real Estate, Millaa Millaa Real Estate, Malanda Visitor CAIRNS: Centre, Eacham Fuels Malanda and Yungaburra Information Centre.

Smithfield News (Shopping Centre), Cairns Central Nextra News, KURANDA: Clifton Beach Newsagency and Trinity Beach News.

Kuranda News, Kuranda Foodmart, Koah Service Station, INNISFAIL: Speewah Store, Kowrowa Cash Store and Kuranda BP Roadhouse.

Larsen’s Newsagency and The Book Centre.

DIMBULAH: TGT Home Hardware, Dimbulah Post Office, Bendigo Bank, Dimbulah One Stop and De Lai Fuel Distribution.

across And numerous small businesses la! the Tablelands, Gulf and Peninsu www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

The Express, Wednesday, March 10, 2021 PAGE 12

Parkinson’s group opens their door

Mareeba Lions Rosemary Blundell, Karen Braes, Ashlyn Arnett and Michelle Rafter at the cake stall helping to raise funds for Ovarian cancer research.

A treat in support of Ovarian Cancer research

Heather Bailey, Matt Newport, Phyliss Pianta, Tim Pianta, Rosa Newport and Arthur Wright at the Tolga and District Parkinson’s Support Group.

A LOCAL Parkinson’s group is now looking for new members and interested participants to join their monthly meeting.

The Tolga and District Parkinson’s Support Group meet the first Wednesday of every month at the Tolga Community Centre from 10am.

Phyllis Pianta who is the coordinator of the group said people living with Parkinson’s disease or caring for someone with Parkinson’s is full of challenges, but they don’t have to feel alone.

“The support group is an informal gathering of people who share similar experiences, situations or problems,” she said.

“The group provides members a chance to meet and talk with others while offering each other emotional and practical support.

“It will also give you a chance to share your feelings and hear the experiences of others.”

Phyllis said the meetings are informal and friendly and that new members and their care givers are always welcome.

“The support group is ideal for people living with Parkinson’s disease and most other neurological conditions,” she said.

“By knowing more about

Parkinson’s disease through the experiences of others, and through professional resources, you will discover new ways of dealing with your own symptoms and challenges.

“Support groups can help you renew your sense of hope in dealing with changes to your lifestyle and offer you the chance to make new friends.”

The Tolga and District Parkinson’s Support Group meet the first Wednesday of every month at the Tolga Community Centre, 65 Main Street, Tolga from 10am to 12.00pm To find out more contact Phyllis on 0418 783 841.

AFTER Karen Braes was diagnosed with Ovarian Cancer five years ago, the Mareeba Lion’s Club has made it a mission to raise as much money as possible to go towards life changing research towards the disease.

The Mareeba Lioness Club used to run the project every year since Mrs Braes was diagnosed but since the club has closed down, the Lions have taken on the responsibility.

An illness that strikes

without warning with no diagnostic tests, ovarian cancer has been dubbed the silent killer amongst women.

Her husband, Tom Braes OAM of the Lions Club who has been raising awareness for the cancer said donations are extremely important.

“Donation’s that were received will help develop better ways to care for people with this cancer, in particularly develop a diagnostics test,” he said “My wife has received

Avastin® (bevacizumab) which has only been available within the last ten years thanks to donations going towards medical research, “As the ovarian cancer teal ribbons and other merchandise did not arrive in time for the Teal Cake Stall, I will make them available for sale at later Lions events.”

Overall, the cake stall made $1100 that will be donated to the Australian Lion’s Medical Research Foundation for Ovarian Cancer.

Cairns at forefront of medical research CAIRNS hospital is once again at the forefront of the medical frontier being selected to participate in an Australian-first drug trial aimed at breast cancer.

ZN-c5 is an oncology drug that is currently being trialed in hospitals across the world including Europe and the US. In pre-clinical studies the drug has been shown to reduce breast cancer tumors, it is currently being examined worldwide in Phase 1/2 clinical trials in patients with advanced or metastatic breast cancer an in a Phase 1 trial in early stage (operable) breast cancer.

Breast cancer is one of the most diagnosed cancers in Far North Queensland, affecting an

average of 275 women each year.

Cairns Hospital cancer specialist Dr Natalie Rainey said it was exciting for the oncology team to be involved in an international medical trial.

“This drug is being trialed at major metropolitan hospitals across the world including the US and Europe,” she said.

“For us to be involved shows that even on a small scale, we have the systems that really allow us to do this type of work.”

ZN-c5, which is taken in the form of a pill, targets the estrogen receptor, which effectively removes a major growth pathway for breast cancer cells.

Cairns Hospital cancer surgeon Dr Timothy Elston said the

data and results collected from the Cairns Hospital trial would be greatly beneficial for the development of the drug.

“A lot of these trials usually take place in metropolitan areas where you have a very concentrated population,” he said.

“This will be helpful in the longer-term strategy, in providing data from a broader range of Australian women on exactly how well the drug can work.

“It also matures our own systems.”

This latest trial will help realize the Cairns Hospital’s vision of becoming � a University Hospital with the attraction of world class researchers and more clinical trials.

Races

WHAT’S ON

ST PATRICKS’S DAY

• Fashions on the Field – St Patrick’s Day themed • 5 Race Card • Live Entertaiment

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MAREEBA TURF CLUB | THIS SATURDAY 13 TH MARCH, 2021 MORE INFORMATION: P: 4092 1167 l E: mareebaturfclub@bigpond.com www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

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♥

The Express, Wednesday, March 10, 2021 PAGE 13

Young entrepreneurs making a difference

BY ELLIE FINK

Charlee Croucher and Emily Curcio will be at the Mareeba Markets this Saturday with their creations on sale.

JUMPING a step ahead at the age of 12, two teenage girls have turned their hobbies into businesses by selling their creations together at the Mareeba Market’s each month.

Selling cupcakes and pet fish, friends Emily Curcio and Charlee Croucher have become regulars at the markets since kicking off their business ventures last year.

Emily has a passion for baking cakes. She makes everything from scratch and says that she wants her name to be big in the cake industry one day.

“I thought this would be something really fun to do and get my business name out there before I leave school,” she said.

“I like making cakes and the creativity that comes out of it and being able to do whatever designs I want on them.”

Charlee began selling pet fish at the markets after the idea sprang from her family hobby – fish breeding.

“I love fish, we have a lot of tanks at home and our hobby as a family is breeding them,” she

said.

“We have a different range of fish from molly’s, platy’s, swordtails, guppy’s and a few goldfish.”

Charlee said that she hopes to open her own pet store and sell larger fish and other animals in the future.

The girls are also making a difference to their community by donating part of their profits to local charities.

In the past they have donated to Relay for Life, Animal Rescue and made up care baskets for the Mareeba Animal Refuge filled with food, beds and litter.

Emily’s mother, Jen Curcio said she is incredibly proud of her daughter and Charlee’s talent and drive to become entrepreneurs.

“I am very proud and so is Tanya (Charlee’s mum), they do it all themselves and buy and create everything themselves,” she says.

“Emily's Creations” and “Charlee's Fish” will be at the Mareeba Markets this Saturday, March 13 with their yummy cupcakes and shimmering fish.

RACE DAY

Socials

Atherton Turf Club Saturday, March 6 Melissa and Alexcia.

Michelle and Isla.

Felicity and Juanita.

Trinity Vassie, Ashton Ryan and Candace Drake.

Robyn and Lindy.

Dannielle Atkinson

PAGE 14 The Express, Wednesday, March 10, 2021

Ken and Judi Sinnamon.

Lynette Hoopert and Kerry Landford.

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

Junior tradie numbers reach new heights Mareeba State High School year 11 students Angus Campman and Jett McDowall are currently undertaking a certificate II in Rural Operations through the school.

BY RHYS THOMAS STUDENTS at Mareeba State High School (MSHS) are not just picking up their grades, many have chosen to pick up a trade with more than 100 stu-

dents currently undertaking extracurricular studies in the trade industry.

Like many schools across the region, MSHS offers options for students who may feel like going on to university is not for them.

They offer school-based certificates in areas like hairdressing or fitness, apprenticeships like boiler making and plumbing through local businesses and traineeships.

Currently at MSHS there are 161 students undergoing these

alternative options, nearly double than what they had participating last year.

MSHS Industry Liaison Officer Linda Clark said that even though the school has made the courses available, the students have shown tremendous drive

to participate in these opportunities.

“There is a lot more drive and there is a lot more hunger,” she said.

“The students are hungry to learn and to give themselves a better opportunity moving for-

ward.

“Kids aren’t just using it as an excuse to get out of school, they are driven.”

Often the school will contract exterior employers or training providers to supply the students with the learning and knowledge they need.

One of these businesses is Civil Safety and Training which is currently running a Certificate II in Rural Operations at the school in their trade training centre.

The course is being run by Rudi Schincariol and contains elements of automotive, fabrication, basic machinery and safety units.

Civil Safety and Training have been running courses at MSHS since 2011 and Mr Schincariol said that now days there are a lot more options of employment compared to 2021.

“They want to learn basic skills on a range of things so that they find their niche market, they can pursue it,” Mr Schincariol said.

“The numbers have increased this year we normally have around the 15 mark, but this year we have over 20, it’s a very good turnout.

“We run the workshop like an industry standard workshop, we treat the students as employees and in turn they treat us as employers.”

Many students who take part in these kinds of opportunities have gone into the workforce immediately after graduating, spending next to no time in limbo.

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The Express, Wednesday, March 10, 2021 PAGE 15

ENTERTAINMENT Family fun, thrills and Aussie drama at The Majestic Theatre

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T-BONE TUESDAYS $25

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NEW: The Little Things.

THERE'S family fun, thrills, and Aussie drama on the Majestic screen this week, starting on Thursday, March 11.

The new crime drama thriller THE LITTLE THINGS should keep you glued to your seat, with a star line up of 3 top Oscar winning stars, Denzil Washington, Rami Malek and Jared Leto.

Kern County Deputy Sheriff Joe Deacon is sent to Los Angeles for what should have been a quick evidence-gathering assignment. Instead, he becomes embroiled in the search for a serial killer who is terrorizing the city.

Disney's first mega release of the past year, the colourful animated action adventure RAYA AND THE LAST DRAGON is a must see for all families and continues for another great weekend.

The Australian action thriller HIGH GROUND is back for one final screening.

THE LITTLE THINGS Deke (Denzel Washington), a burnt-out Kern County, CA deputy sheriff teams up with Baxter (Rami Malek), a crack LASD detective, to nab a serial killer. Deke's nose for the "little things" proves eerily accurate, but his willingness to circumvent the rules embroils

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HIGH GROUND Set against the stunning landscapes of 1930s Arnhem Land, HIGH GROUND chronicles young Aboriginal man Gutjuk, who in a bid to save the last of his family teams up with ex-soldier Travis to track down Baywara - the most dangerous warrior in the Territory, who is also his uncle.

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ENTERTAINMENT Workshop to help growing artists A NEW workshop will give painters the chance to learn from some of the best in the field with the inaugural ‘Art on the Barron’ being held in May this year.

The Mareeba Art Society (MAS) has invited some of the best painters in the field up to Mareeba for a five-day workshop concluding in an exhibition open to the public.

Penelope Gilbert-Ng will be running watercolour exploring textures, Manuela Pilz is doing costumed life drawing, Don Milner is running draw and then paint in acrylics followed by Gary Myers with loosen up with acrylics.

Long travel times are usually involved when getting experiences like this, however MAS decided to bring that experience closer to home.

Member of MAS Angela Musumeci is encouraging people to register their interest for this workshop that will ‘cater to everyone’.

“They never make you

feel as if you’re not good enough because anybody can do art, if I can do it, anybody can,” she said.

“Never a day goes by without being able to learn something as an artist and if you know nothing to begin with, this is the way to learn.

“It’s not just about painting the Mona Lisa, it’s about feeling confident in your own artistic choices.”

All artistic skill levels and modalities will be catered for during the workshop to ensure that no one is left out or left behind.

People from Cairns, Port Douglas and Malanda have already registered their interest for this event. To register your interest head to www.art-on-the-barron. weebly.com or give Angela a call on 0434 397 350.

The workshop will be held from Monday, May 17 to Friday, May 21, with deposits for the workshop due on Wednesday, March 31, when registrations also close.

ART: Mareeba Art Society member Jillian Lumley is excited for the upcoming Art on the Barron workshop and the things she will learn over the five days.

PHOTO OF THE WEEK

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It was the first storm of the season in Mareeba, the shot was taken from Mareeba looking back towards Walkamin. My partner and I leaving the Atherton tablelands on the 10 March, 2021 under the name of Unveiling Oz to travel Australia and hoping to share more shots like this.”

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OPINION

With Phil Brandel @Philbrandel1

EMAIL: editorial@theexpressnewspaper.com.au

Playing games LAST week it was announced that Brisbane had been nominated as the preferred host of the 2032 Olympics, which is just another example of the disparity between the south east corner and the rest of Queensland.

We can’t get a road from Mareeba to Cairns built and The Premier is already promising billions to the south east corner.

The Sydney Olympics in 2000 cost almost $6.5bn to put together, not including the wider costs for urban and transport infrastructure.

The London 2012 Games had an estimated $18bn price tag. That’s almost triple, does that mean the Brisbane Olympics will be triple again?

That’s a lot less schools, hospitals and roads for Queensland.

According to a report

by Oxford University, the six summer and winter Games over the decade 2004-2014 cost on average of $11.4 billion. That’s without factoring in infrastructure such as roads, rail, and airports and all of those ran significantly over budget.

The financial hangovers the Games brought on to Rio and Athens are cautionary tales.

The Olympics really are an outdated tradition and event. In the past young people would aspire to run 100 metres in 10 seconds, now they would rather have 100,000 followers on Instagram rather than watch men from overseas chase each other around a track.

To try and stay relevant to young people, the IOC have started to introduce some new sports in the hope of keeping young people interested and also trying to attract TV audiences who are switching off free to air

LETTERS to the EDITOR

and pay TV in droves in favour of streaming services.

Skateboarding, sport climbing, and surfing have all been confirmed for the Paris Olympics in 2024, as has breakdancing, someone should remind the IOC that Electric Boogalooo came out on VHS in 1984.

The Brisbane bean counters are already crowing about the economic benefits this will bring Queensland. What they really mean is Brisbane and The Gold Coast.

A close friend of mine who works high up in an accommodation chain, said that venues from the Sunshine Coast down to The Gold Coast are already getting booking enquires for 2032. While venues in FNQ are barely staying open.

If the state government had any foresight the bid wouldn’t be “Brisbane 2032” but rather “Queensland 2032.”

We could have basketball in Cairns, sailing on the Whitsundays, shooting in Mt Isa, cycling around Port Douglas and the Daintree (Townsville can have breakdancing).

Australian gold medallist Paralympian Kurt Fearnley couldn’t have said it better when asked if he was excited about the prospect of the games coming to Queensland.

“From the Sunshine Coast down to the Gold Coast, if they get this across the line, everyone will be able to get that hands-on experience of the Olympic and Paralympic Games.”

Well not everyone, Kurt.

Road issues in main street HERE we go with the ongoing complete inability of both TMR (who by the way are in control of what happens in the Main Street except for centre and angle parking) and the Mareeba Shire Council to address the issue of the extremely dangerous pedestrian crossings (already one fatal I know about and some near misses an injuries) and secondly the dangerous exit to angle parking.

I have written on numerous occasions that the answer is simply and very cheap only needs blacking out of the existing lanes and reducing the Main Street to one centrally located lane.

Before anyone reacts consider this.

Both the northern and southern entries to Byrnes street are one lane.

The lights would need two lanes for the length of the entry of all or part of the cen-

tre islands sufficient to allow vehicles to stack.

The reduction to one lane would reduce the lack of oncoming vehicles in one lane having vision of approaching pedestrians when the lane is obscured by stacked vehicles in the other lanes.

Then introduce orange flashing lights with pedestrian crossing signs.

“Surely all lives matter” In all due respect apparently this was proposed some years ago by TMR and not agreed to by MSC as some business leaders objected on the possible loss of business. Absurd argument as the parking both centre and angle would be easier, access across Byrnes St safer to negotiate so that is no argument.

Please get behind this cheap and simple safety innovation I believe that properly presented both the business sector and the public would benefit. Any further delays will amount to further loss of life.

HAVE YOUR SAY

Even if this does somehow reduce the speed of traffic in Byrnes Street it would be an additional safety benefit.

Greg Williams MAREEBA

Questions of Parliament I FIND it nothing short of amazing that the number one law making institution of this country, Parliament House in Canberra has trouble following laws it passes and expects the rest of the population to abide by.

When Government ministers and security guards either don’t know or refuse to call police when there are serious crimes like rape occur in the Parliament House, it calls into question the competency and honesty of the people representing us.

For the Federal Police Commissioner to have to write to the Prime Minister to point out the bleeding obvi-

HISTORY UPDATE WHILE it is sad the Uniting Church may be lost to the town it was mentioned to me a while back that plans were afoot to place it under heritage listing but the congregation voted against it.

Now this may be another piece of misinformation which seems to surge around the town at times, so I can’t say yes or no as to whether this happened.

However, given there are many history buffs and enthusiasts around town , maybe a word with the powers to be, (Uniting Church) the history buffs may be able to get the Church at a reasonable price and then find a suitable plot of ground to move it to.

Seeing the facade is brick it will take an expert to move it safely. To place anything on the Historical Listings takes a good amount of research before tendering it

and then the waiting game starts as these bodies do not move swiftly.

Maybe once removed, the building could then become a home, coffee shop or a business. The possibilities are endless. Think about them and let those who really care put their hands in their own pockets to preserve this fabulous building. Up to you.

Meanwhile back at the Historical Society’s Rooms, a number of Council records are finally being looked at, will be sorted into order and eventually scanned.

Again this will take time as we are few in number and we work hard for two days per week at the Rooms.

We are all volunteers, gladly giving our time so that future generations of Australians will learn about and appreciate what their

forebears did, and Mareeba Shire history in particular.

Come on in, join us, and give us a hand in this interesting and important venture.

Nothing is hard or difficult and if need be you can be guided on what to do. Phone us on 4092 3599 Tuesday and Wednesday or email sec@mbahistsoc.org. au, we’re friendly and easy to get along with. Look forward to chatting with you.

As we are self-funded, raising monies come under our most important heading and any assistance in this direction will be most appreciated.

Selling books, secondhand as well as new, at Mareeba Market Days is one of the few ways we have to raise finances. So come along and buy up big. Mareeba Market Day happens on the second Saturday of

ous that ministers have to report crimes immediately they are committed, is nothing short of astounding.

It is totally unacceptable that politicians and public servants can not be civil and respectful to one another or that they feel in danger of loosing their jobs if criminal behaviour is reported for rape or any other crime committed on them.

As Australian citizen we do not get a free pass to not abide by laws and not report crimes committed. The politicians that represent us should face immediate dismissal for the fragrant flouting of any law no matter the reason as they are unworthy of representing us.

If it is compulsory for us to vote then it should be compulsory for our politicians to abide by the laws of this state and this country. That is the bare minimum for everyone else.

Richard Holme BENTLEY PARK

With the Historical Society of Mareeba each month and if there are five Saturdays in that month, then also on the fifth Saturday.

Donations, be they money, books to sell, items for our displays, photos to scan, stories to record are all welcome and add to our collections, all there for research purposes.

We are open to the public for that reason, and people from all walks of life have taken advantage over the years. School children, teachers, professional people, writers, family historians etc have commented on the vast wealth of information the Society holds.

Come on in and see for yourself. Meanwhile stay safe. Talk to you soon.

Helen Kindt (Hon Sec) Historical Society of Mareeba

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ON LAND the

Beetles may be silver bullet for Tableland soils

BY SALLY TURLEY

DISCOVERIES being made by local research group, “Dung Beetles on the Atherton Tablelands: Identification and Location” (DBID), could have huge benefits for the local beef and dairy industries.

Established by Gail Abernathy of Wondecla and Louise Gavin of Remarkable NRM, nine months ago, with funding support from Cape York and Terrain NRM, the project aimed to expand local knowledge about the presence and activities of Dung Beetles on the Tablelands and their benefits to the ecosystem and production.

But nine months in, the results being found by this dedicated group, which includes 6 dairy and beef operations from Wondecla, to Upper Barron, Malanda and Yungaburra, have moved way beyond those initial parameters.

“Our investigations have highlighted a gap in Dung Beetles activity during the winter months. Of the 17 native and 14 introduced species of beetle we have identified so far, none of them are actively removing enough dung in the winter months, which is something we want to change,” Louise Gavin said.

“We have also discovered the presence of the introduced predatious species Hister nomas which feeds on fly larvae.

“The female lays her eggs under the cow pad and her larvae feed on fly larval in the pad, as well as finding and feeding on fly puparia in soil around the pad.

“Importantly, it was noted in the “Dung Beetle Survey of South East Queensland” which surveyed 18 properties throughout January 1999 that, when Dung Beetles are active enough, buffalo fly numbers reduced to levels where little or no chemical control was needed.

“A single cow pad can attract 2000 bush flies and CSIRO staff who had worked on the Dung Beetle buffalo fly program in Queensland, have stated that buffalo fly survival during experimental work had been reduced by 80% to 90% due to

Dung Beetle activities.”

Ms Abernathy believed the Dung Beetles could be a silver bullet for farmers.

“If they reduce flies we use less chemicals, which means less runoff to the reef. Australia's 250 native species evolved with our marsupials and are not adapted to clean up the larger, moister dung pads left by cattle,” she said.

“Removing dung from pastures and shifting those nutrients underground, fertilises and aerates the soil, which improves pasture quality and reduces erosion, as well as breaking the parasite cycle. It is a win/win situation that is good for the farmers, the cattle, the environment and the reef.”

Group members were required to collect four cow pad samples each month. The manure, must be at least 24 hours old, so it will have collected night and day flying species, and must include 5cm of the soil underneath, where eggs and larvae may be present.

Using the flotation technique, each pad is then tipped into 10 litres of water and agitated to remove the bugs. The collected bugs are then sent to leading Dung Beetle expert, Dr Bernard Doube in South Australia.

Ms Gavin said the project was hugely indebted to the Director of ‘Dung Beetle Solutions International,’ Dr Doube, for his subsidised rates, the generous sharing of his vast knowledge and his genuine desire for their project to succeed.

She said they hoped to continue building on the work done in former trials including the $23 million Dung Beetle Ecosystem Engineers (DBEE) 5 year project based in south west Queensland in 2019 and the Malanda Beef Plan Group Dung Beetle Project 2014-2016.

The DBEE project introduced new Dung Beetle species to southern Australia, created a beetle identification and location app, and aims to develop a Dung Beetle supply and distribution pipeline to producers.

In 2014 the Malanda group invited commercial Dung Beetle supplier, John Feehan (Soil Cam Pty Ltd) to present at one of their

Louise Gavin of Remarkable NRM demonstrates the flotation technique used to gather dung beetle specimens for their research program.

farm field days and subsequently obtained a $65,000 grant through land care group, Terrain to purchase a number of dung beetle colonies. These were distributed across 18 Tableland properties from January to May 2016.

Unfortunately no baseline beetle species identification studies were carried out prior to their release making it impossible to know if the species had already existed on farms before hand.

A lot of baseline data has been collected in the current project, including which species and in what numbers are already present on farms, their movements and activities throughout the year as well as a record of chemicals being used in each location.

Keen to continue this important work, Louise and Gail have applied for further funding and hope to both extend the trial out another 12 months and involve

more properties, learn how far the beetles travel and introduce more beetles and different species to the area.

“We didn't know any of the species or when they were active when we started. We would like to test our knowledge further by looking at how the beetles are affected by our temperature range, chemical use, seasonal factors and predators such as birds and cane toads,” Ms Gavin explained.

Ultimately the group hope to establish breeding trials locally to increase the numbers of species suited to the area. At over $1/head to buy, they would be a great resource to produce and with two thirds of the cattle herd in northern Australia, there would be a ready market for them. And quipped Ms Abernathy, they are quiet to have around, easy to muster and cheap to feed – the farmers' perfect accessory.

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ON LAND the

First meeting of 2021 for Malanda Beefplan Group

BY SALLY TURLEY

TABLELAND farmers and graziers gathered on a property near Peeramon on Sunday for the the first meeting of the Malanda Beefplan Group for 2021.

A range of topics were discussed, including impending cattle feed price rises of 10% as a result of the impact of the Fall army worm, updates on feral pig, dog and rabbit management and an update on the Nevua Sedge situation.

Producers also heard about the first JBS grid of the year and listened to reports on the Dung Beetle project and the Leucaena and rye grass for beef, grazing trial.

Spokesperson for the Navua Sedge projects, Rob Pagano said

good progress was being made with the development of both the biological agents and the auto weed sprayer. He said the group had been fighting sedge for 14 years on many fronts and funding received from Tablelands Regional Council, Cassowary Coast and Hinchinbrook Councils as well as the State Government had enabled them to work with experts to develop solutions.

Though the projects were long term and quite complex, he said they had made a lot of progress.

“Senior Principal Scientist with Brisbane DAF, Kunjithapatham Dhileepan has identified a couple of very promising biological agents which will hopefully be available for use in the next four years and there should

be good data on the auto weed sprayer by the end of this spray season,” he said.

A new weapon has been released in the war against feral pigs. After more than a decade, ACTA's new feral pig bait, HOGGONE has received regulatory approval and its S6 classification means it is available for public purchase through the usual rural product outlets.

It uses a unique form of sodium nitrite that is an approved food preservative, in low doses it kills pigs humanely in around two hours. The pig merely slips into an unconscious state before a pain-free death.

It is a pig-specific bait that is safe for humans, so no license is required, but if domestic dogs are able to access the baits, it is rec-

Meeting host, Colleen McLucas chats with Michael Hoare and brand new member, Jo Murphy.

ommended the HogHopper bait delivery system be used. HOGGONE breaks down completely in the soil, taking around 1 week in wet, tropical conditions and up to two months in drier areas.

JBS Townsville resumed operations on March 2 and were still running Bdoubles from Malanda on Sundays throughout

the season. Their grid opened at $6.80 for bullocks and $6.05 for cows. Livestock buyer Andrew Carcary said they were currently booked out until March 22nd.

Malanda Beefplan's Chariman, Dave Andersen said the group had been running for over 25 years and met every two months on a member's farm

across the Tableland.

He said they also hosted training and information events throughout the year and raised funds for agricultural education and Tableland youth.

Members came from all over the Tablelands and anyone interested was welcome to attend.

TC Niran wreaks havoc on banana industry

Around 95% of damage to northern banana farms has occurred in the Hill electorate. Member for Hill, Shane Knuth inspects the carnage caused by TC Niran with Nathan Puccini, who suffered huge losses in his Cowley banana plantation.

ANGELO and Heather Russo were just about to hit peak production on their 162ha Boogan banana farm outside Innisfail, when they were knocked right out of the game by Tropical Cyclone Niran last Monday.

“We pick bananas every week of the year, but production was firing up right before this happened and we were about to start harvesting double the quantity of fruit we had been picking so far this season,” Mr Russo said.

The Russos were unlucky to be in the narrow corridor of destruction caused by Niran that levelled farms through the Boogan/Wangan area, destroying entire paddocks of one of the nations most valuable fruit crops.

Mr Russo said this blow to the business came on the heels of a general downturn in the banana industry.

“We have been cutting fruit for returns of at or below cost for the last 8 - 10 months. There are no reserves in the system, so we will just have to wear it,” he said.

“We have been growing bananas here since 1986, and while Niran did not cause as much structural damage to houses and sheds on the property as we experienced with Tropical Cyclone Yasi, the banana trees were stripped of their leaves, broken off and torn apart by the winds. A

smaller area of farms were affected this time, but the farms that were affected, were devestated.

“The Wangan and Boogan area has copped it the hardest in the district and we won't be picking any fruit now for the next five or six months.

“We will be waiting for the suckers to grow and replace the adult trees and even when picking does finally start again, it will be a slow build up back to where we were before the cyclone hit.”

Mr Russo said they had been slowly phasing out of growing sugar cane, which had become less lucrative over recent years and had been expanding their area under bananas. Just when that transition was almost complete, they have suffered a major set back from mother nature.

“The worst part of it now is the huge clean up,” Mr Russo said.

“We still have to keep all our field staff employed to help clean up the mess and begin with the replanting, but the returns will be minimal for months to come.

“Hardly any of the fruit will be able to be salvaged from the trees in time. We only have a couple of days to get what we can off before it gets too hot. Even then, we are limited to the fruit that is big enough to sell, that hasn't been damaged in the storm

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

and hasn't been lying in the mud.

That doesn't leave us much.”

As for the future, Mr Russo said banana growers in the area didn't have a lot of choice.

“Sugar cane and bananas are the only crops you can grow in any scale in this area and there is no money in sugar at the moment, so once you are in the banana industry, you just have to stay in it,” he said.

“We will have to assess what we are going to do about re-establishment considering the scale of the damage we have suffered.

We will try and bring 70-80% of the plantation back, but the rest may have to lay fallow until we get back on our feet.”

Federal member for Kennedy Bob Katter and Member for Hill Shane Knuth, spent a day touring the worst affected areas and offering support to growers, families and staff affected, where estimated losses of up to $200,000 have been suffered by locals.

Most of the Cassowary Coast region, except for Tully, have experienced crop losses between 20 per cent to 100 per cent from Fishery Falls to Cowley, Mission Beach, parts of El Arish and inland across to Walkamin and the Atherton Tablelands.

Mr Knuth said they encountered a sense of despair amongst farmers who were finally seeing a path forward for the 2021 season. After months of negotiation with government, a number of farms had just signed off on documents that promised an end to staff shortages.

This new workforce would now have to be sustained during a difficult period of little to no income for the next few months.

He said his and Bob's primary focus was about trying to obtain financial assistance to support businesses during this time.

He said they were in talks with the Agriculture Minister's office about accessing JobKeeper and low interest loans of up to $250,000 through Queensland Rural and Industry Development Authority.

“But at this stage, this event has not been declared a natural disaster, even though it clearly qualifies as one,” Mr Knuth said.

“We are hoping affected areas from Mission Beach, the area around Innisfail and parts of the Atherton Tablelands will be declared.

“As an alternative, we are encouraging affected growers to lodge an Individual Disaster Stricken Property Declaration.

There are a number of Department of Agriculture and Fisheries staff out in the field at the moment, ready to assess applicants.”

Specialist provider of technical advice and expertise across:  Pumping  Irrigation  Filtration  All aspect of water and fluid management

www.pumpingirrigation.com.au Mareeba (07) 4092 1622 Serving Mareeba, Far North QLD, Northern Territory & Torres Strait since 1978.

Volunteers Sought - Interested persons please visit:

crimestoppersqld.com.au/volunteer

The Express, Wednesday, March 10, 2021 PAGE 21

EXPRESSO Wednesday 10th Max 29o Min 22o Tide Times 0115 0.66 0804 3.25 1400 0.97 2000 2.54

Thursday 11th Max 20o Min 30o Tide Times 0152 0.59 0837 3.25 1430 0.93 2031 2.61

Friday 12th

Max 29

o

Tide Times 0226 0.59 0906 3.18 1500 0.94 2100 2.63

Min 23o

take a break...

Saturday 13th Max 26o Min 22o

Tide Times 0258 0.67 0930 3.07 1529 0.98 2127 2.61

Sunday 14th

Max 29

o

Tide Times 0328 0.82 0951 2.91 1556 1.06 2154 2.55

Min 19o

Monday 15th Max 29o Min 20o

Tide Times 0356 1.02 1010 2.73 1621 1.15 2222 2.45

Tuesday 16th Max 29o Min 21o

Tide Times 0422 1.24 1026 2.53 1645 1.24 2251 2.33

WORD SEARCH CROSSWORD Alarm

Freezer

Answer

Garage

Barbecue

Grill

Blender

Hair

Calculator

Iron

Camera

Juice

Ceiling

Lamp

Clothes

Oven

Coffee

Printer

Computer

Radio

Doorbell

Scale

Dryer

Stove

Electric

Timer

cially for household use.

18. The chemical element of atomic number 74, a hard steel-grey metal.

19. Very small.

21. A steep-sided gully formed by the action of fast-flowing water in an arid or semi-arid region.

22. A strong outdoor shoe with ornamental perforated patterns in the leather.

DOWN

Flash

Easter Colouring In Competition NAME:

AGE: PHONE:

ACROSS 7. A dispiriting or depressing experience or factor.

8. A large dung beetle of the eastern Mediterranean area.

9. An act of cutting something in order to neaten it.

10. Relating to poetry.

11. Admire, revere, or love greatly or excessively.

13. A provisional certificate of money subscribed to a bank, entitling the holder to a formal certificate and dividends.

15. Relating to ordinary citizens and their concerns.

16. A tool, container, or other article, espe-

SUDOKU

1. Orkney and Shetland dialect meaning: the spring.

2. A basic group of natural objects that includes all living and extinct animals.

3. Put forward a plan or suggestion for consideration by others.

4. An organic compound made by replacing the hydrogen of an acid by an alkyl or other organic group.

5. The process of exact thinking/ reasoning.

6. Ritual suicide by disembowelment with a sword, formerly practised in Japan by samurai.

12. A cocktail containing rum and lime juice.

14. Readiness for duty or immediate deployment.

17. The characteristic spirit of a culture, era, or community as manifested in its attitudes and aspirations.

20. A word (other than a pronoun) used to identify any of a class of people, places, or things.

Enter digits from 1 to 9 into the blank spaces. Every row must contain one of each digit. So must every column, as must every 3x3 square.

Puzzle solutions Drop completed colouring into The Express office, 186 Byrnes Street, Mareeba.

The Express Easter Colouring in Competition will commence on Tuesday, March 9, 2021, and ends at 12 noon on Thursday, April 1, 2021. One winner will be chosen by The Express team and notified by phone Thursday, April 1, 2021. The winner must be available to pick up the prize from The Express office (186 Byrnes Street, Mareeba). By entering the competition you are agreeing to allow The Express to publish your name and use any photos which will be taken upon collection of prize.

PAGE 22 The Express, Wednesday, March 10, 2021

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

PROPERTY

houses l land l units l investments l acreage l farms l rentals

Ever wondered what it felt like living in the country?

If it is lifestyle that you are after, then this maybe your answer

Enjoy the feeling of nature, with a county feel, just minutes from town with our Bundanoon on the Barron lots at Amaroo.

Three blocks with titles, ready to build and create the lifestyle you have been dreaming about.

Featuring town water, underground power, sewerage and wide sealed roads.

These stunning parcels of land have their own river frontage, offer privacy and serenity plus so much more.

Prices start from $240,000- for lots from 4,000 sqm.

Don’t forget about the building stimulus packages ending this month it could not be a better time to find your dream location and build the home you’ve always wanted.

We have a comprehensive selection of house plans from a variety of master builders for you to choose from.

Pop into Amaroo Land Sales Centre for any information or call Ryley on 0409 321 000 to arrange an onsite inspection, anytime that suits. Visit www.amarooestate.com.au

4091 1177 21 Main St, Atherton

MODERN HOME ON BEAUTIFUL ACRE

3

2

4

• Tiled open plan living • New kitchen, stainless appliances, soft close cabinetry • Generous outdoor entertaining • 3 spacious bedrooms all with brand new airconditioners, fans and built-in storage • Master bedroom with ensuite and walk-in robe

Call Zach Reid 0427 683 023

26 JACKSON DRIVE, ATHERTON

4

2

2

• Office, theatre room and formal lounge • Hard wearing tiles in the living areas • Slimline granite benches, pantry, breakfast bar, dishwasher • Built-in wardrobes • Master boasts walk-in robe and ensuite with dual vanities • 36m steel shed which is connected to the mains power

$595,000 - Call Brendan 0447 809 808

IMMACULATE, IMPRESSIVE PROPERTY

5

3

6

• Architectural designed home – 3 bedrooms upstairs • Open plan kitchen, living, dining room with timber deck • Spa pool, internal courtyard, polished timber floors • 2 bay garage, 7m x 14m Colorbond shed, 1 hectare block • Downstairs has 2 bedroom fully self-contained granny flat with bathroom, kitchenette, lounge & dining

$875,000 - Call Kaydee 0417 468 941

Zach 0427 683 023 | Kaydee 0417 468 941 | Brendan (Auctioneer - Rural Expert) 0447 809 808 | www.athertonfn.com.au www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

The Express, Wednesday, March 10, 2021 PAGE 23

PROPERTY

houses l land l units l investments l acreage l farms l rentals

Lovely neighbourhood

fans, fully tiled, gas water and stove and also has reverse cycle air-conditioning throughout all living areas and bedrooms.

At the rear of property is a large double garage which is fully tiled and has a bathroom.

The property also has concrete driveway, landscaped and fully fenced providing privacy and security.

IDEALLY located on one of the most sought after streets in Malanda this Masonry Block home is currently an investment property providing great returns at $400pw.

It features 3 generous sized bedrooms and one large bathroom. Open plan kitchen, living and dining leading out to the full length timber verandah which is elevated and with no development at the back of this property, you have country views to enjoy.

The house has ceiling Address: Price: Agent:

Please contact Elders exclusive agent Jeanette Suffield on 0407 745 748 to arrange an inspection.

40 Bernard St, MALANDA From $375,000 Jeanette Suffield Elders Real Estate Malanda 0407 745 748

Contact:

Mareeba lifestyle with extras FOR LEASE MAREEBA

• 1368M2 WAREHOUSE WITH 2 STREET DRIVE THROUGH ACCESS • 24M X 57M + 4 HIGH CLEARANCE ROLLER DOORS & INSULATED ROOF • SECURITY FENCED + BATHROOM, TOILET & SMOKO ROOM FACILITIES • 2178M2 VACANT USABLE ALLOTMENT DIRECTLY BEHIND JOE TORRISI 0417 700 468 WWW.JOETORRISI.COM.AU

Malanda TICKS ALL THE BOXES

4

THIS 33.3 acre elevated private acreage backs onto the Barron River and offers an array of favourable extras already in place for it's new owner including a 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom rendered masonry block home, sheds and lime orchard.

Attributes include: • 33.3 acres with 2mg water allocation & 600 metres of Barron River frontage • 3 Bedroom, 2 bathroom rendered masonry block home with generous open plan living & central breezeway with raked ceiling • Fully tiled + spacious kitchen with gas cooktop, corner pantry & servery to the breezeway • Patio off the breezeway • Sizeable bedrooms with mirrored built-in robes & master bedroom with ensuite

& walk-in robe • 3000L rainwater tank • Pig pen • approx. 247 mature Tahitian Lime trees • 13m x 12m packing shed + 2.2m x 2.2m coldroom • 13m x 6m workshop with toilet & shower • Separate 15m x 8m machinery shed Everything is in place for

Jeanette Suffield 0407 745 748

a private, peaceful lifestyle with the addEd bonus of income potential from the lime trees.

Address: Price: Agent: Contact:

For further information or to arrange a private inspection please call Joe Torrisi.

282 Hodzic Rd, BIBOOHRA $650,000 NEG Joe Torrisi Joe Torrisi Real Estate 0417 700 468

Shellie Nightingale 0429 966 038

GREAT VALUE

2

4

3

This modern 4 bedroom home on Tableland acreage estate is looking for its new owner! Features include open plan kitchen/living/dining, fully tiled with blinds throughout, double bay lockable garage with remote control door and a single bay shed and elevated block.

$549,000

3

3

This solid rendered 4 bedroom home that would be great for big families is located within minutes from Malanda on a private 2.5 acres with a magical rural outlook. Features two large lock up sheds and one open shed.

$549,000

A: 21 James Street, Malanda | P: 4096 5666 | W: malanda.eldersrealestate.com.au PAGE 24 The Express, Wednesday, March 10, 2021

Insurance starts with a chat Contact Natalie Freeman on 4095 6677 today Elders Insurance Tablelands Zoners Pty Ltd ABN 59097345474 trading as Elders Insurance Tablelands AR No. 254599 is an Authorised Representative of Elders Insurance (Underwriting Agency) Pty Limited ABN 56 138 879 026, AFSL 340965.

Insurance is underwritten by QBE Insurance (Australia) Limited ABN 78 003 191 035 AFSL 239545. Contact us for a Product Disclosure Statement to decide if a product is right for you.

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

PROPERTY

houses l land l units l investments l acreage l farms l rentals

Spacious brick family home in unbeatable location

LOCATED on the coveted ‘High School Hill’ this grand brick home offers loads of space and unbelievable versatility. Only moments’ walk from both State Schools and a hop, skip and jump from Atherton Main Street this property remains unexpectedly private with large living spaces, an enviable outdoor entertaining area and serene fenced backyard.

The home offers four bedrooms, one being utilized as the perfect work from home Address: Price: Agent: Contact:

office with an additional study nook for the kids.

Multiple options for formal and informal dining or living spaces inside but the huge outdoor deck with built in pizza oven will likely be the place most choose to spend their time.

This family home is definitely not one to be missed.

Call Zachery Reid on 0427 683 023 or First National Real Estate Atherton 4091 1177.

8 Sixth Av, ATHERTON Offers in the low to mid $400,000’s Zachary Reid First National Real Estate Atherton 0427 683 023

A private retreat on the edge of town IDEALLY positioned at the end of a no through street you’ll find this picture-perfect property on 1,621m2 adorned by beautiful mature shade trees a private hideaway that is welcoming to come home to.

Fully renovated inside and out with quality in mind, the character filled hardwood home features polished floors throughout, 3 bedrooms, spacious near new kitchen with separate lounge and dining.

Other Inclusion Include: • New air-conditions to living and main bedroom • High-pitched roof with terra-cotta tiles • 4.5kw solar system plus solar hot water

$395,000

• 25m x 9m approx. rear patio with shower toilet block • Patio enjoys total privacy overlooking gardens • Main shed 12.5m x 15m approx. with shipping containers at either ends • Four vehicle undercover accommodation • Caravan accommodation with outside power • Boundaries screened with an array of trees & greenery The property provides a Address: Price: Agent: Contact:

www.4880.com.au

Mortgagee in Possession Modern home Aircon in lounge and master Side access

964m2 approx.

2 bathrooms Rear fencing

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

double frontage with a private front entrance leading directly to the undercover carport linked to the fabulous rear patio.

Our team is here to help you with your property search and with the lowest interest rates ever available there has never been a better time to buy.

Let us help you make your next move. Just ask Aurelia on 0418 183 555.

Stanley St, MAREEBA $349,000 NEG Aurelia Rogato Rogato Real Estate 0418 183 555

4

2

Aurelia 0418 183 555

2

$249,000 neg

www.4880.com.au

Relaxed Easy Living

Modern kitchen Timber deck Renovated main bathroom

627m2 2 bathrooms Partly fenced

3

2

2

Aurelia 0418 183 555

The Express, Wednesday, March 10, 2021 PAGE 25

PROPERTY

houses l land l units l investments l acreage l farms l rentals

Quality home in desirable close OPEN HOME THIS SATURDAY 10am-10.45am

that boasts a roomy office with direct access out to the back deck.

A light and bright formal lounge room and an open plan dining, kitchen and family area that has a cosy wood heater and sliding glass doors that lead out to the elevated patio area, with views of the garden and a 6 x 3 shed in the fully fenced back yard.

The cooks’ kitchen has loads of cupboard space, with an induction cooktop, pyrolytic oven, range hood and dishwasher, that’s set off with the pop of colour from the glass splashbacks. All three bedrooms have built-in robes, soft grey carpet and an ensuite bathroom off the master suite.

The home is fully screened with modern vinyl flooring in Address: Price: Agent:

SET in a quiet close, surrounded by other quality

homes, this spacious three bedroom, two bathroom

home is unassuming from the street, but once inside, it

opens up to a well-designed and decorated modern home

Contact:

the creek and water tank.

If privacy, space and convenience are high on your list book an inspection today.

• Low set • Entertaining area • Ceiling fans • Fireplace • Fully fenced.

• 2 Car carports • Garden shed • Creek frontage • Creek electric pump

• Water Tank • 1.11 ha

the living areas, and a stunning bathroom with heated towel rails, a standalone bathtub and a walk-in shower with a decorative glass screen for privacy. And the all-important separate toilet and a very functional laundry with a large linen press.

Downstairs there is a lockable store room under the house and a shady spot to sit or pot plants, while out the front there is easy access from the street to park the caravan or motorhome under the 8 x 4 m high clearance carport.

Main St Real Estate is delighted to present this Exclusively Listed property to the market and is available for private inspection by calling Kath on 0488 426 686.

32 Storer St, ATHERTON $469,000 Kath Johnson Main Street Real Estate 0488 426 686

Three bedroom brick home on acreage

LISTINGS WANTED!

WHAT IS YOUR PROPERTY WORTH? Give us a no obligation call to find out!

www.tablelands.com

45 James Street, Malanda: 4096 5446 13 Main Street, Millaa Millaa: 0408 733 149

PRIVATELY located, this spacious three-bedroom brick home is situated on 1.11 hectares (2.74acres) Just a short country drive to Malanda.

Generous proportions characterise this home with large open plan living/dining extending from the modern kitchen that hugs the length of two walls; low maintenance cork tiles flow through the main high traffic areas and all the bedrooms are carpeted.

This home has space to garage two vehicles plus a double carport. Patio at back, ideal for entertaining and relaxation, overlook the fully fenced acreage with established lawns and trees and fruit trees surrounding the house.

Other features include fireplace, ceiling fans, a small shed. Water supply is from

For more information, or to

Address: Price: Agent: Contact:

DAIMIN KOCHI 0448 916 246

IMMACULATE HOME OR INVESTMENT • Open plan lounge/dining area, fully tiled • Well appointed kitchen with a pantry • 3 good sized bedrooms with built-ins • Full length entertaining area at rear • Single garage, veggie patch & fruit trees • Fenced 834m2 block, lockable garden shed $285,000

book your private inspection, call Darren on 0429 977 675 @ Tablelands.com & Malanda Real Estate.

MALANDA $449,000 Darren Hithersay Tablelands.com & Malanda Real Estate 0429 977 675

KATH JOHNSON 0488 426 686

RARE INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITY • Ideally located in Atherton, close to schools • Other quality drawcard businesses • 103m2 floor area, good signage area • Side access, off & on street parking • Maunds Road features high levels of traffic • Good returns, vacant possession an option $368,000

GOLDEN OPPORTUNITY • Well established business ticks all the boxes • Great parking and main road exposure • Incredibly popular with loyal clientele • Regular hours, maintainable for one owner • Outdoor dining licence, licenced kitchen • Huge potential to grow, 2yr lease, 2yr option $170,000

A RARE FIND • Live an acreage lifestyle right in town • 2 living areas, modern kitchen, pantry • 5 good sized built-in bedrooms, spa ensuite • Outdoor entertaining area, inground pool • 14m x 7m solid & lockable insulated shed • 2.023 hectare block, backs onto state forest $575,000

A GREAT START • 1.51 acre allotment, benched house pad • 12m x 9m lockable shed with power & water • Bathroom, kitchen & living on one side • Shed space on other side, septic installed • Large shade trees to establish privacy • Ready to extend or start from scratch $305,000

Phone 4091 6246 • www.mainstrealestate.com.au PAGE 26 The Express, Wednesday, March 10, 2021

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

PROPERTY

houses l land l units l investments l acreage l farms l rentals

Stunning acreage in Millstream

COME and look at this beautiful property in Millstream.

The house itself is situated far back from the road offering great diversity for this 7.36 acre block.

The native trees at the front of the property give a classic Aussie bush feel but as you approach the house you can see all the benefits of modern living. The lawns and established gardens are lush and green year round thanks to the pop-up sprinkler system installed around the house yard and the 5kw solar system ensures the house is highly energy efficient.

No expense was spared in the building of this home with granite benchtops and

high quality finishing throughout. The master has a walkin robe and ensuite while the other 3 bedrooms have built in robes.

At the rear of the house is a fenced yard for fruit trees including lychees, avocados, mulberries, mangos and more as well as a green house for the keen horticulturalist.

This property would be Address: Price: Agent: Contact:

fantastic for any horse enthusiast, the arena is directly behind the house and visible from the enclose veranda and behind that are four paddocks and 2 sheds (one 9x9 lock up and one 8x8 open).

Don’t miss your chance with this one. Call Alex Payne today on 0409 328 153 to book your inspection.

116 Jacaranda Dr, MILLSTREAM $POA Alex Payne LJ HOOKER Atherton 0409 328 153

Tropical living close to town • Low maintenance floors are tiled throughout • Solid concrete block internal and external walls • Security screened windows and doors • Split system air-conditioning in all rooms • Huge outdoor entertaining area • 6m x 3m powered tility shed • Double lock-up garage with remote access • Side access, fully fenced 800m2 allotment tifully landscaped gardens and lawn, all on a 800m2 allotment.

For the keen investor, the property has been a long term rental and tenants have shown interest in staying on if required. currently returning $380 per week.

SET in a sought after and convenient location a short distance to town and shops, is this Palm Close residence.

Very solid and cool, this well maintained home is awaiting its new owner or will suit the savvy investor who values quality and solid returns.

Every aspect of this concrete block four bedroom, two bathroom home oozes comfort. Surrounded by tropical gardens and with timber

features throughout, this house feels like a home. All internal living is spacious, including the massive lounge room and practical kitchen with separate dining.

The two separate living areas move to the outside living with ease, where you are greeted with a private and generous outdoor undercover entertaining area. There is also a spacious backyard, side access and only the one

neighbour.

Outside offers a convenient 6m x 3m utility shed with power, a cute little cubby house for the kids and beauAddress: Price: Agent: Contact:

For more information, or to arrange a Private Inspection call exclusive agent Vince Costas on 0419 926 691 or drop into the Central Realty Mareeba office today.

21 Palm Cl, MAREEBA $385,000 EXCLUSIVE to Vince Costas Central Realty Mareeba 0419 926 691

WHAT’S YOUR PROPERTY WORTH? TALK TO OUR AWARD WINNING AGENCY TODAY. JUST CALL VINCE OR REMO

4092 2232

159 Byrnes St, Mareeba | www.crmareeba.com

ATHERTON

Country Character Home RAVENSHOE: 30 Grigg Street

3 • Beautiful timber floors throughout • Tongue and groove walls • Large shed with power • Wood buring fireplace • 946m2 block

1

$299,000

4

Escape to the Country RAVENSHOE: 8 Mazlin Street

4 2 5 • Enormous verandah with spectacular views • Ideal for entertaining • Wood fireplace • Fully insulated 5 bay shed • 1,439m2 block

$460,000

4091 3144

The Roar of the Millstream MILLSTREAM: 10 Waterview Close1 Rd 1 • Direct access to the Millstream • Large liveable shed • Airconditioned in one room • 2 bay shed • 3 acres

$275,000

3

Look Out Over Your Own Paradise MT GARNET: 100 Garnet Street 4 2 • Solid family home • Open plan living area • Huge verandah • 4 bay powered shed • 3 acres

4

$550,000

For more property details or to arrange an inspection contact 4091 3144 or visit: atherton.ljhooker.com.au www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

The Express, Wednesday, March 10, 2021 PAGE 27

PROPERTY

houses l land l units l investments l acreage l farms l rentals

Spectacular views at Lake Barrine

157m2 Fully Partitioned, Modern, Airconditioned Office Space comprising of: • Reception Area • 5 Offices • Large Boardroom • Records or Storeroom • Kitchenette FRESHLY PAINTED WITH NEW FLOOR COVERINGS OF YOUR CHOICE!

FOR PARTICULARS OR TO INSPECT CONTACT: VINCE 0418 184 709 OR FRED 0417 648 155

LOCATED in the sort after Lake Barrine area is this beautifully pastured property showcasing spectacular views.

Set on 52 acres approx. this property is fenced into 5 paddocks with a spring fed dam, cattle yards with a roofed crush and 2 sheds.

Also featured is a neat 3 bedroom home with sunken lounge and dining, large wellappointed kitchen with heaps of cupboard space and lovely rural views. All bedrooms are a good size with the main housing and ensuite & walkin-robe.

Sit in the enclosed sun-

room/verandah and take in the gorgeous unhindered views to the north-east, over the paddocks and dams to the mountain ranges and beyond.

There is also, nicely appointed, self-contained accommodation privately set away from the main home.

Included in this sale is a near new Mahinda tractor, Address: Price: Agent:

If you are looking to make a rural change then contact, Morgan Brennan, at Ray White Atherton today on 0407 730 450 for your inspection. www.raywhiteruralatherton.com.au/ ATH22874875 LAKE BARRINE $990,000 Morgan Brennan Ray White Atherton 0407 730 450

Contact:

Atherton

22 Main Street, Atherton - Phone: 4091 7111 Margaret Black: Principal

1 BUNYA STREET, YUNGABURRA OPEN TO VIEW • 3 lovely bedrooms with built-ins Saturday • Stunning modern kitchen 13th March • Luxurious bathroom • Wide verandahs + fire pit & pergola 11am - 12 noon • 7m x 9m shed with 3m clearance Expressions of Interest close 1st April 2021.

All EOI forms must be submitted in writing to 22 Main St, Atherton by 12pm on the day of closure.

Suzey Whitby 0438 090 306 ATH22882247

ride-on mower and a fourwheel bike.

IT’S GOT IT ALL East Barron • Set on 39.7 hectares • 2 meg earth dam • 40 meg water allocation • 1.2km of Barron River frontage • 3 bed, 2 bath brick home • 55 acres* of fertile cultivation $1,600,000 ATH22721483 Morgan Brennan 0407 730 450

BOOK YOUR VIEWING Atherton • 3 bedrooms with built-ins • Main with ensuite & walk-in robe • Galley style kitchen • Open plan living & dining • Outdoor patio + fenced backyard • Ideal investment property $315,000 ATH22451109 Suzey Whitby 0438 090 306

RARE COMMODITY Tarzali • Set on 59.61 hectares • New boundary fencing • Natural water from 2 springs • Clean improved pastures • Machinery shed with power • New bore, water lines & troughs $1,200,000 ATH22828359 Morgan Brennan 0407 730 450

www.raywhiteruralatherton.com.au PAGE 28 The Express, Wednesday, March 10, 2021

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

PROPERTY

houses l land l units l investments l acreage l farms l rentals

Yungaburra A beautiful place to visit – An even better place to live HERE you will discover a home to meet the lifestyle needs of your family including your four-legged friends.

There are three sizable bedrooms with an ensuite in the main bedroom and the living areas have vinyl floor coverings for easy care.

The huge under cover patio with built-in BBQ and bar offers a peaceful family oasis and, gives you another setting for entertaining on summer nights.

For your peace of mind, the

home is security screened.

Children and pets can play safely in the 1,700sqm fenced allotment. Situated in a cul-de-sac of quality homes just a 200-metre walk to the foreshore of Lake Tinaroo.

If it’s a family home at Lakeside you’re after than

look no further.

For more information, call Trisha Jackson at Professionals Atherton. Phone 4091 3955 or 0419 1833 145 anytime. To view more photos, visit athertonrealestate.com.au

Address: Price: Agent:

YUNGABURRA $425,000 Trisha Jackson Professionals Atherton 0419 183 145

Contact:

• • • • • • • • •

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

The Express, Wednesday, March 10, 2021 PAGE 29

PROPERTY

houses l land l units l investments l acreage l farms l rentals

More than meets the eye

EXCLUSIVE agent John Goncalves and Ray White Mareeba is proud to present new to the market this exciting property that has more to offer, than may first meet the eye.

The property features a modern, fully air conditioned home that has been perfectly positioned at one end of this large 951m2 corner allotment to make the most of future possibilities such as subdivision, strata title of a second dwelling (STCA) or just to be

able to have great access into the back yard for a shed, park a boat, caravan, etc.

The comfortable three bedroom, one bathroom home features modern tiles throughout, security screens and an open plan design that combines living, dining and kitchen to be the heart of family living.

Other features of the home • Plenty of storage cupboards & bench space in kitchen, • Built-in-robes & split sys-

tem a/c in all bedrooms, • Separate internal laundry with direct access out.

• Outside, a small garden colourbond shed for the mower etc, • Fully fenced yard with plenty of room for pets or for the kids to play, • A front to back double carport ideal for large family gatherings • Corner access for a caravan, boat, etc It is worth mentioning that apart from being fenced for

privacy, the property also has an existing tall timber fence that separates the block into two.

A savvy investor could acquire a significant income from a secOnd dwelling being constructed onto the balance of the land with the advantage of separate access points / entrances and exclusive use yard, allowing complete independence from one another (STCA).

A well presented modern home with a great tenant in

place paying $360 per week with potential to further develop in the future is rare, so better act quick.

Asking price $345,000 negotiable.

Address: Price: Agent: Contact:

Call exclusive agent John Goncalves at Ray White Mareeba on 0407 690 961 today, for more information or to book an inspection of this Mareeba property today.

18 Seary Road, MAREEBA $345,000 NEG EXCLUSIVE to John Goncalves Ray White Mareeba 0407 690 961

UNIQUE RIVERFRONT PROPERTY

INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITY NOT TO BE MISSED!

FABULOUS HOME ON SMALL ALLOTMENT

With wonderful views of the Granite Creek, this beautifully renovated 1593m2 property has a lot more to offer than most would expect.

• 3 bedrooms plus office or 4th bedroom • 2 brand new bathrooms • Lovely new kitchen plus gorgeous timber floors • Spacious living area plus split system airconditioning • 3 vehicle accommodation (semi enclosed) plus storage area Price $395,000 Neg Exclusive Agent John Goncalves 0407 690 961

This rare and unique 3 unit complex is situated on one freehold title with no Body Corporate fees.

• Beautifully renovated units, all tenanted with off-street parking • Private / exclusive use of outdoor areas • Easy to maintain gardens and Colorbond fencing • All units are fully renovated • Separate water and power meters • Possibility to add a further unit Price $650,000 Neg Exclusive Agent John Goncalves 0407 690 961

Retirees and anyone looking to downsize will love this place!

• Modern 3 bedroom home on 319m2 freehold title • Surrounded by great neighbours • Fully airconditioned • Well appointed kitchen • Lovely outdoor patio, fenced for privacy, pet friendly • Lock up carport with automatic roller door Price $295,000 Neg Exclusive Agent John Goncalves 0407 690 961

raywhiteruralmareeba.com.au/qld/mareeba

raywhiteruralmareeba.com.au/qld/mareeba

raywhiteruralmareeba.com.au/qld/mareeba

PAGE 30 The Express, Wednesday, March 10, 2021

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

PROPERTY

houses l land l units l investments l acreage l farms l rentals

70 acres of pure bliss

HAVE you been looking for your own sanctuary? Then this private and tranquil 70

acre property may be just the change you have been looking for. The property is set

amongst the beautiful mountains surrounded by rainforest and pastures, there is

also your own waterfalls and creeks to cool off on the hot summer days.

Home Features Include; • Solid masonry block home • 4 bedrooms, 3 bedrooms with built in robes and air-conditioning • Air-conditioned open plan living with an Esse wood stove • Neat kitchen – pantry, standalone gas stove and a butler’s pantry • Sunken lounge with direct access to the back veranda • Heated linen cupboard in the hallway • Tiled bathroom with shower/bath combination andvanity unit • Separate toilet • Screens and high ceilings throughout home • Full length front and back verandas • Front veranda includes an outside toilet, shower, woodshed & sauna.

suite and built-ins • Modern bathroom • Stunning spacious kitchen with granite bench tops, dishwasher and range hood • Built in study • Own private fenced backyard with maintained gardens, large covered entertainment area and Garden Locker • Fully enclosed garage with remote roller door and built-in laundry.

• Body corp and sinking fund $1500.00 per year including insurance • Rates $1300.00 per half year Low body corp fees with external house insurance included provide the new owner with a low cost and easy lifestyle and leave you with more time to enjoy life.

PERFECT for the owner occupier, investor or retiree this solid lowset block modern villa is situated within a close distance to the shops and schools. Situated in the much sought-after Weaver Street precinct, the well maintained villa is in immaculate condi-

tion all you will need to do is move in.

Features include: • Modern open plan living, dining area with tiled floors throughout • Two bedrooms with reverse cycle air conditioning • Ceiling fans through out

• Master bedroom with enAddress: Price: Agent: Contact:

Call Rino on 0427 779 086 today to arrange your private inspection.

7/50 Weaver St, ATHERTON $310,000 Rino Gava Atherton Realty 0427 779 086

www.athertonrealty.com.au

4091 1611

24 Main St Atherton

Other Features Include; • Fenced 70acre lifestyle property • Solar hot water system and solar power connected to the grid – Save on those electricity bills!

• 4 bay powered shed • Approx. 30 acres biodynamic pastures and 35 acres rainforest • 5 paddocks, with water troughs • Cattle yards • 2 x creeks, dam & small waterfalls on the property • Water supply: 2 x rainwater tanks + water fed from the permanent spring creek • Property backs onto a national park • Self-contained caravan – Address: Price: Agent:

Was previously tenanted for $140/week • Raised Veggie gardens, fruit trees and a greenhouse – Perfect for a buyer with a green thumb • Located Approx. 16kms from Malanda Town Centre and 70km’s from Cairns If you enjoy the outdoors this property is perfect for you - plenty of tracks to ride your pushbike, motorbike & horses or go hiking & swimming nearby at the popular Windin Falls.

For further information or to arrange an inspection, call marketing agent Raquel at Sommerset Realty on 0408 983 879.

46 Old Cairns Track, TOPAZ $595,000 Raquel Cunzolo Sommerset Realty 0408 983 879

Contact:

Living at it’s best What’s your proper ty wor th?

Call Raquel today to find out!*

*Free No-obligation appraisal

Shop 1, 116 Main St, Atherton QLD, 4883

Phone: 0408 983 879

www.sommersetrealty.com.au

SELLING?

Call now for a FREE MARKET APPRAISAL

Rino Gava 0427 779 086 Collette Rowston 0419 733 712

PRICE REDUCTION 13-15 Black Gully Road - $695,000

WEEKENDS EVERY DAY 12 Eden Drive - $365,000

MODERN HOME 36 Tumbare Street - $349,000

EXCELLENT EXPOSURE Tolga Road - $700,000

 2 acres with bushland backdrop  4 bedroom/4 bathroom dual living option  7 bay sheds + high clearance carport  10kw solar panel system

 1 acre in Tinaroo Rise Estate  15 x 11m fully insulated Colorbond shed  Equipped with kitchenette & bathroom  Two street access with Tableland views

 3 bedrooms with ensuite in main  600m2 easy care allotment  Open plan living leads to outdoor living  Currently tenanted at $360 per week

 Fenced 2,680m2 freehold property  170m2 warehouse with side access  High profile location on the Kennedy Hwy  Currently tenanted with long term tenant

Collette 0419 733 712

Rino 0427 779 086

Collette 0419 733 712

Rino 0427 779 086

WEB ID: 606705

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

WEB ID: 690268

WEB ID: 201846

WEB ID: 696848

The Express, Wednesday, March 10, 2021 PAGE 31

DIRECTORY

s s E Expr

admin@theexpressnewspaper.com.au

Authorised Fujitsu Service Agent

Certain work defined as “building work” in the QBCC legislation may only be undertaken by licensed contractors, or if undertaken by unlicensed contractors, only to the value of $3,300.

However, work falling outside that definition may be performed by unlicensed contractors and is not subject to any value limit.

To check whether a Contractor holds a QBCC Licence visit: www.qbcc.qld.gov.au Or call the QBCC on 1300 272 272

P: 4092 3019 M: 0409 648 403 F: 4092 1629

www.donhall.com.au ABN 80 179 825 363 QBSA 59712 ARC License AU24014 Electrical License No: 78958

• Airconditioning Installations • Cold Rooms • Fridge Seals • Gasing • Servicing and Maintenance • Authorised Artic Licence

Call Ross Malfitana Mobile: 0429 898 657

 All Brands  Prompt Service  We also install Aircons!

Come and see Daniel and the team at B&C Cabinets for all your cabinetry needs!

P: 4092 2671 • E: enquiries@bccabinets.com.au • QBCC 1209087

ABN: 61 788 170 092 LIC. NO: L012565 ARTIC LIC: AU21630 QBSA: 1220582

DAVE’S

AIR-CONDITIONER

CLEANING

Serving Mareeba & Tablelands Areas • Residential & Commercial • Kitchens • Vanities & Wardrobes • Offices & Retail

CABINET MAKER

R & C AIRCONDITIONING & REFRIGERATION

ir a n c oo l a Breath cle comes first! giene w he r e hy Lic. No. LO21176

 Domestic Kitchens  Commercial Fit Outs  Vanities & Wardrobes

COOL AIR

Servicing the Tablelands, Cooktown, Mossman, Dimbulah and everywhere in-between.

Call Natasha Burton today on 4092 3464 or email admin@theexpressnewspaper.com.au

E: dozocobuilding services@dodo.com.au W: www.dozocobuildingservices.com.au Facebook @dozocobuildingservices

QUO

T E S!

BUILDING: • Extensions • Pa�os • Carports • Renova�ons • Decks Call Doug anytime, • Fencing he’s a friendly bloke!

Fully set up for rural and remote work. Servicing Cardwell to the Tip. From Cairns to Normanton and everywhere in between!

CLEANING

DOUG ROLFE 0418 760 644

FR EE

Call Natasha Burton today on 4092 3464 or email admin@theexpressnewspaper.com.au price includes an online listing on www.theexpressbusiness. com.au PAGE 32 The Express, Wednesday, March 10, 2021

r For all you rior xte interior & e g! cleanin

FULLY INSURED LOCAL FAMILY BUSINESS

• Bond Cleans • Mould & Mildew Treatments • Pressure Cleaning, Roofs & Exteriors • Gutter Cleaning • Contract Cleaning

MAREEBA DENTURE SERVICE

• General Repair and Maintenance Services • Roof Repairs and Maintenance • House Extensions • Concreting • Tiling • Retaining Walls and Fences • Shed, Carport and Awning Construction • Asbestos Removal

For ONLY $40 per week this spot could be yours!

es c i v r e S g n i n Clea

TABLELAND

Phone: David or Julie 0428 993 205 | Email: tablelandcleaning@outlook.com

Paul Johnstone

DENTAL TECHNICIAN DENTAL PROSTHETIST Registration No. 931417

• Full and Partial Dentures • Relines and Repairs • Mouthguards Private Health Fund Rebates Apply Veteran Affairs Provider

4 Warren Street, Mareeba Q.4880 PH/FAX: 4092 2464 • MOB: 0402 809 556 • Email: choppers@qld.chariot.net.au

ELECTRICAL

BUILDING

ROOFS: • Repairs • Re-Roofing • New Roofs • Awnings • Gu�ers • Pain�ng

DOZOCO

@redsjoinerymareeba

EARLY LEARNING • KINDERGARTEN OUTSIDE SCHOOL & VACATION CARE

DENTAL

eed! arant lly Gu u F k or All W BUILDING SERVICES

QBCC Licence No. 1162246

info@mareebakidscampus.com.au www.mareebakidscampus.com.au 3 CENTRES IN MAREEBA: Constance, Dunlop & Hastie Streets

price includes an online listing on www.theexpressbusiness. com.au

QBCC: 1109288

Servicing Mareeba, Tablelands & Cairns areas!

P: 0488 700 086 E: redsjoinery@outlook.com

Phone DAVID AVOLIO on 0409 924 006

For ONLY $40 per week this spot could be yours!

BUILDING/ BRICKLAYING

Natasha Burton

Shop 4, 276 Byrnes St, Mareeba PO Box 1034, Mareeba Q.4880

CHILDCARE

AIR CONDITIONING

4092 3464

O’Brien Electrical Mareeba (07) 4092 4146

99 Vaughan Street, Mareeba | mareeba@electrical.obrien.com.au LIC. 55472 | ARC. AU31673

obrien.com.au/electrical/mareeba www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

DIRECTORY

s s E Expr

Lic. No. 77513

ELECTRICAL SOLAR & BATTERIES AIR CONDITIONING

PHONE: 0408 764 850

DO YOU NEED A RELIABLE ELECTRICIAN? Do you need a RELIABLE Electrician who shows up on time, CLEANS up after himself, and completes your work CHEERFULLY, without charging the earth? Call TODAY!  Farms  Sheds  Shops  Houses  Maintenance  Renovations  Installations  New Homes  Repairs

Call DANIEL 0433 158 941

HARDWARE

admin@theexpressnewspaper.com.au

smartelec@y7mail.com

Lic No 69788

• Ravenshoe • Herberton • Millaa Millaa • Tarzali • Topaz • Malanda • Yungaburra • Atherton • Tolga • Walkamin • Mareeba • Croydon • Georgetown • Einasleigh • Forsayth • Mount Surprise • Mount Garnet

Lic # 81562

ARC Lic # L166416

Will travel anywhere!

Phone Keith 0455 268 369 keithstephan3@gmail.com K.W.S. Rural Fencing & Yard Building

PAINTER

BELL HARTLEY & CO. PAINTING CONTRACTORS

P: 4092 1176 M: 0418 184 147 E: markterri70@bigpond.com

NO OBLIGATION FREE QUOTES!

PO BOX 1414, MAREEBA QBCC 1115490

100% Locally Owned & Operated!  DOMESTIC W: www.maximumpestman.com MAREEBA OFFICE:  COMMERCIAL P: 4092 1999 1 Vaughan Street OFFICE:  TERMITES M: 0418 150 759 ATHERTON 30 Main Street Pre-Construction | Pre-Purchase Inspections

PET RESORT

FENCING

• Steel, Timber and Exclusion • Lean-to Sheds, Shed Slabs • Vet Crushes

SALES, SERVICE & REPAIRS

MAXIMUM PEST MANAGEMENT

2 Zinc Street, Mount Garnet | 4097 9053

K.W.S. Rural Fencing & Yard Building

Shop 3, 203-215 Byrnes St, Mareeba P: 4092 7038

M. HARTLEY PTY LTD TRADING AS

OUTBACK ENGINES & CUSTOM

RESTORATION • MAINTENANCE • REMANUFACTURE • Mandrill Bending and Sheet Work • Full Custom Fab • Component Rebuilds • Engines, Transmissions, Final Drives • Vehicles, Machinery, Heavy diesel • Concept to Creation

IRRIGATION DESIGN AND SUPPLY

www.burratronics.com.au

PEST

ENGINEERING

OEC

• Pumps Sales & Repairs • Filtration • Water Treatment • Water Tanks & Troughs • Pool Treatments • Solar Pumping Systems • Reinke Centre Pivot and Lateral Move Irrigators

IN-STORE AND ON-SITE

124 Mason Street, Mareeba  (07) 4092 2433

QBCC No. 1275266

19 Wormboo Street raven@iig.com.au

• Laptops, Tablets & Towers • Phone & Tablet Repairs • Custom Systems • Networking Solutions

CALL ADRIAN 0429 265 082

LOCALLY All types of ork OWNED AND welding, lathe w OPERATED and milling.

• Hardware • Plumbing • Flat Pack Kitchens • Paint • Nursery • Giftware • Jaycar • Building Materials • White Goods

BURRATRONICS

Efficient and friendly service - Servicing all areas!

GENERAL ENGINEERING

RAVENSHOE HARDWARE

50 BYRNES STREET, MAREEBA • PHONE 4092 7788

I.T

• Airconditioning Installations • Shed Wiring • Underground Power • Renovations & New Houses • All Electrical & Repairs

Natasha Burton

4097 6208

IRRIGATION

ELECTRICAL

4092 3464

Max & Jodie Turner

PROFESSIONAL DOG BOARDING • On the Tablelands at Kuranda • Dedicated Staff • Great Facilities • Highest Quality Diet • Lots of Play Time in Big Yards • Long or Short Stays 131 Boyles Road, Kuranda | Phone: 40938239 www.kurandapetresort.com.au Email: graham@kurandapetresort.com.au

YOU CAN AFFORD TO ADVERTISE IN THE EXPRESS DIRECTORY

Advertising has never WITH PRICES AT JUST $40 PER WEEK!! been more affordable! price includes an online listing on www.theexpressbusiness.com.au

Call Natasha Burton today on 4092 3464 or email: admin@theexpressnewspaper.com.au to find out more!

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

DIRECTORY

The Express, Wednesday, March 10, 2021 PAGE 33

DIRECTORY

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 RURAL  DOMESTIC  COMMERCIAL  ROOFING  PLUMBING  DRAINAGE

SECURITY

admin@theexpressnewspaper.com.au

Natasha Burton

• Patrols • Cash in Transit • Alarm Response and Installation • Alarm Monitoring • CCTV Installation For all security needs call... DRU THURSTON 0408 913 063 and Service

W: www.nqpssecurity.com.au | E: dru@nqpssecurity.com.au

SHEDS

PLUMBING

4092 3464

Rapid Sheds & Construction Daniel and Cheryl Reid

POOL MAINTENANCE & POOL SHOP 71 BYRNES ST, MAREEBA

ALL POOL SUPPLIES INCLUDING FREE WATER TESTING & EXPERT ADVICE

LICENSED POOL SAFET Y INSPECTOR

P: 4092 1443 or 0413 013 297

For ONLY $40 per week this spot could be yours!

Call Natasha Burton today on 4092 3464 or email admin@theexpressnewspaper.com.au

Service & reliability you can trust!

SCENIC FLIGHTS

QBCC No. 1275266

CONTACT DETAILS: Blake Daniel 0439 988 227 Email: atsamfnq@hotmail.com

P: 0411 344 110 | E: ramon@uitownplan.com.au | W: www.uitownplan.com.au

124 Mason Street, Mareeba  (07) 4092 2433

EXPLORE ATHERTON TABLELANDS

Come fly with us!

30 MINUTES - �250 + GST PP 60 MINUTES - �400 + GST PP Minimum Booking 2 people

Trevor 0400 750 330

As a local born and bred, I am invested in the success of the community and how it is developed. Enquire today for a free consultation.

• Pre-purchase property search reports / due diligence - Understand your future or current property rights • Specialise in Development Approvals • Reconfiguring a Lot / Subdivisions • Material Change of Use

TOWN PLANNING

T QUALIT Y PAIN PROTECTION GUARANTEED

TRANSPORT

SAND BLASTING & PAINTING

ry, Farm Machine rs, ile a Tr , ys Ute Tra el, Structural Ste . re Rims and mo

• SHIPPING CONTAINERS Hire, sales & hire/buy option, self-pack removals, Australia wide transport & logistics, container modifications.

• 4X4 FORKLIFT HIRE • TRANSPORT & TOWING Tilt trays & trailers, general freight, accident & breakdown.

• Slashing and Mulching • Orchard / Tree Trimming • Earthworks • Machinery Haulage • Accident Towing / Tilt Tray Hire

price includes an online listing on www.theexpressbusiness. com.au

SANDBLASTING & PAINTING

ABN: 91 542 926 251

8452 Kennedy Highway, Atherton | 4091 7242 | sticklizard.com.au

SLASHING/ MULCHING

POOL

“WE OFFER A COMPLETE ON SITE POOL SERVICE”

SHIPPING CONTAINERS

Sheds, Carpentry & Excavator Work Daniel 0407 768 622 dcreid10@hotmail.com

Locally Owned and Operated

DELIVERY 4 TIMES DAILY!

ALL TYPES OF FREIGHT LARGE AND SMALL: CAIRNS, MAREEBA, TABLELANDS AND SURROUNDS

TELEPHONE: 4092 7680 - FARM DELIVERIES WELCOMED!

YOU CAN AFFORD TO ADVERTISE IN THE EXPRESS DIRECTORY

r e v e n s a h g in is t r e v Ad WITH PRICES AT JUST $40 PER WEEK!! ! e l b a d r o f f a e r o m n e be price includes an online listing on www.theexpressbusiness.com.au

Call Natasha Burton today on 4092 3464 or email: admin@theexpressnewspaper.com.au to find out more!

PAGE 34 The Express, Wednesday, March 10, 2021

DIRECTORY www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

DIRECTORY

s s E r Exp

admin@theexpressnewspaper.com.au

Excellence Through Perseverance and Diligence Wally Amory - Mareeba Depot Manager

TREELOPPING

TRANSPORT

4092 3464

PROFESSIONAL TREE SERVICE SERVICING NORTH QUEENSLAND

Phone: 0421 839 353 | mrboperations@exodas.com.au

P: 4095 4595 | E: aataylorstreelopping@outlook.com

TABLELANDS TREELOPPING

CAIRNS • MOSSMAN • TABLELANDS DAILY YARRABAH SERVICE TWICE WEEKLY

• Treelopping • Bobcat Hire • Wood Chipping • Pensioner Discounts • Stump Grinding • Fully Insured

P Taxi&TrucksM- Tail-Lifters Carriers 4035 2034  Express Couriers Email: admin@pmcarriers.com 247 Hartley Street, Portsmith

For ONLY $40 per week this spot could be yours!

Call Natasha Burton today on 4092 3464 or email admin@theexpressnewspaper.com.au

FREE QUOTES!

Call Jon Lambert | P: 4091 5008 | M: 0407 575 916

CASH OR ACCOUNT CUSTOMERS WELCOME

VENUE HIRE

 Freight Distribution  Warehouse Storage

Natasha Burton

HAVING A PARTY OR FUNCTION? We have the perfect venue!

price includes an online listing on www.theexpressbusiness. com.au

Spacious open venue, beautiful gardens and all facilities – the perfect setting for all occasions!

Race Day Parties, Weddings, Birthdays, Engagements, Business Functions, Christenings, Christmas Parties & more!

Bookings & Info Phone (07) 4092 1167

GET AN ADVERTISEMENT AND ONLINE LISTING FOR ONLY

$40

PER WEEK!

A new place to find all of our great Local Businesses!

We have a new brand new Online Directory to support our great Local Businesses that works hand in hand with our existing Business Directory. The Express newspaper is locally operated and proudly independent.

We provide comprehensive coverage of news and events across our region, and are passionate advocates for the local stories of each town in our region, and cover the issues affecting us all. In addition we also play an important role in promoting local businesses and organisations. The Express Directory in conjunction with our existing print Business Directory will further help connect our local residents with our great local businesses ensuring we reach as many potential clients as possible whether they search for trades and services online or in print.

Take out an advertisement in the Business Directory your business will automatically get an online listing on The Express Directory all for a total cost of only $40 per week.

Contact Natasha Burton today on 4092 3464 Or email: admin@theexpressnewspaper.com.au for more information.

Visit our new website: www.theexpressdirectory.com.au and join us in Supporting Local Business. www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

The Express, Wednesday, March 10, 2021 PAGE 35

CLASSIFIEDS

S S E R EXP

4092 3464

admin@theexpressnewspaper.com.au

FuNeral NotiCe HOARE, Neville Charles

Late of Mareeba.

Passed away peacefully at home on Friday the 19th of February, 2021.

Aged 70 years.

Retired Bricklayer.

Neville was a dearly loved Father, Grandfather, Great Grandfather and Friend to many.

A Funeral service will be held for Neville in Mareeba Memorial Chapel, 45 Constance Street, Mareeba.

Due to the current Covid-19 restrictions, please contact the family for details, email: kazza6474@ gmail.com to register for the funeral service.

In lieu of flowers, the family have asked for donations to Guide Dogs Queensland, guidedogsqld. com.au or RSL Queensland. Donation envelopes will be available at the service.

Guilfoyle Funeral Services Chapels, Crematorium & Memorial Gardens

Death NotiCe WAKELY, George Henry

Chapels, Crematorium & Memorial Gardens

Atherton: 4091 2147 Mareeba: 4092 1013 Local Family Owned & “Entrusted for over 70 years”

www.guilfoylefunerals.com.au

Late of Tolga. Passed away peacefully on the 28th of February, 2021. Aged 90 years.

Beloved Husband of Oll. Loved Father and Father-inLaw of Robyn, Bronwyn & Joe, and loving Grandad and Great Grandad of their families. Cherished Brother of Mary.

A private family service has taken place.

Guilfoyle Funeral Services Chapels, Crematorium & Memorial Gardens

Atherton: 4091 2147 Mareeba: 4092 1013 Local Family Owned & “Entrusted for over 70 years”

www.guilfoylefunerals.com.au

Chapels, Crematorium & Memorial Gardens

Atherton: 4091 2147 Mareeba: 4092 1013 Local Family Owned & “Entrusted for over 70 years”

www.guilfoylefunerals.com.au

Kenneth Lewis THOMSEN (Our Country Boy) Left our family circle on 15th February, 2021.

Aged 67 years.

Ken was the much loved and only Son of Anne and Bert Thomsen (both dec.). Dearly loved Brother, Brother-in-Law, Uncle, Great Uncle and Cousin of Val and Peter (both dec.), Lin and Phil, Jan and Merv (dec.), Helen and Ian, Jamie Blee and their families.

Missed and thought of everyday. As per Ken’s wishes, a private cremation has been held.

Alice Zilah WARD Passed away peacefully on the 6th of February 2021 at the Mareeba Hospital, formerly of Atherton. Aged 73 years.

Beloved Mother of Michael & Nicholas.

Relatives and Friends are respectfully invited to attend Zilah’s Memorial Service to be held at the Atherton Cemetery, Kennedy Highway, Atherton on Friday 19th March, 2021 commencing at 10:30am.

1300 781 084

McNAMARA, Warren Keith Late of Kennedy Highway, Mareeba QLD. Sadly passed away peacefully on the 16th of February, 2021. Aged 62 years.

Son of Maxwell McNamara (Dec.) & Jay McNamara (Dec.). Brother to Michael, Glenn, Ralph (Dec.) & David. Loving Uncle of Aneeka, Jess, Mikayla & Chris.

The relatives and friends of Warren are invited to attend his funeral service which will be held at Davies Creek Fire Station at 11am on the 16th of March, 2021.

add CoLour!!

Would you like to ADVERTISE??

1300 781 084

YOUR LOCAL CLASSIFIEDS

ChurCh NotiCe Presbyterians continue to meet in Mareeba for worship each Sunday 10am, QCWA Hall, Wilkes St (behind Meals on Wheels) ~ All Welcome!

EASTER SEASON CONTINUES ON SUNDAY 14 MARCH, 2021: THE FIRST EASTER #4: THE ROMAN PROCURATOR

Go on... give US a call on 4092 3464!!

For sale Mango Harvest Aid and Mango Packing Equipment Comprising of bin tipper, trough tank and elevator gas hot water dip tank, inspection conveyor, brushes, singulator, 7 bin grading conveyor.

All in good condition!

Also approx. 1900 mango trays, 3 Dix sticker guns and 49 bins.

To be sold as total sale: $29,000 Phone 0417 643 387

“So Pilate said to the chief priests and the crowd, ‘I find no fault in this Man’.” (Luke 23:4) Includes prayer for leaders at all levels in Australia, in support of the ‘Forty Day of Prayer for Revival and Transformation in Australia’ initiative.

The Express collects personal information to assist us in providing goods and services which you have requested to process competition entries, giveaways and to improve our products and services to you.

We may be in touch by phone, mail, fax or internet to inform you of any services and promotions which may be of interest.

If you would prefer us not to do so, please write to us at: The Express, Po Box 2243, Mareeba QlD. 4880 Access to your personal information can be obtained by calling (07) 4092 3464.

PAGE 36 The Express, Wednesday, March 10, 2021

3 litre turbo diesel, tray back, 190,000 kilometres, snorkel, bull bar, tow bar, upgraded suspension, RWC + Rego until August.

$24,000 ONO - 0428 411 526

2016 Single Axle Tag-along Plant Trailer 5 metre deck, 1 metre beavertail, 2.46 metre width, 10 months rego.

$23,500 + GST Call for more information 0427 938 711 3 seat "wood" seater with cushions.

Waterproof cover. $250.

Ph 4092 1809.

CAMPER trailer.

Hardfloor, int. kitch, poor canvas. $2500 Ph 4091 1223.

ButCher MOBILE farm butcher.

Ph John Hales 0409 638 882.

LOCAL Mobile Farm Butcher - will travel. Ph Bryan 0407 691 752.

BILL Black Mobile Butcher. Hang up to 7 days. 0408 922 812.

Pets

adopt a Pet Hi everyone! My name is Freddie. I am a cattle dog cross 1.5 years old. I am a lovely, friendly boy who would probably love a family with fun and active kids.

Please come and meet me and my other mates at the refuge.

Contact the refuge on 4092 3060. Hickling Avenue, Mareeba

12/2008 NISSAN PATROL

Privacy Policy

Make your ad stand out froM the rest...

Love and miss you from you loving family and friends.

GILLIGAN, Thomas George “Tom”

www.guilfoylefunerals.com.au

Guilfoyle Funeral Services

19-6-44 to 6-3-19 Your life was a blessing, Your memory a treasure.

You are loved beyond words, And missed beyond measure.

Guilfoyle Funeral Services

Local Family Owned & “Entrusted for over 70 years”

Late of Mt Garnet. Passed away peacefully on the 28th of February, 2021.

Dearly loved Mother, Grandmother, Sister, Aunty, Cousin and Friend of her family.

A funeral service will be held for Glen in Mt Garnet on Friday 26th March, 2021.

LYN COLEBROOK

Late of Ravenshoe. Passed away peacefully on the 3rd of March, 2021. Aged 93 years.

George will be sadly missed by all his family and friends. Privately cremated.

Atherton: 4091 2147 Mareeba: 4092 1013

HOOLIGAN, Glen May

iN MeMoriaM

Natasha Burton

GaraGe sale 3 Meehan St, Mareeba.

Saturday 13th March - 8am - 5pm. Various household items.

MOVING SALE SATURDAY 13th March 46 La Spina Rd, Mareeba

Vintage china, wall vases, crystal cabinet, big established pot plants, 2 baby car seats, portacot + stroller, mounted buffalo horns + various tools.

www.mareebaanimalrefuge.com.au

YOUR LOCAL CLASSIFIEDS

PositioN VaCaNt

Company: Tableland Fertilizer Position: Retail Sales Person Location: Atherton Operating Hours: 8am - 5pm Monday to Friday and every second Saturday 8am - 12pm Tableland Fertilizer is a family owned agricultural business with affiliation to CRT. It operates stores on the Atherton Tablelands in both Mareeba and Atherton.

We have an opportunity for a Retail Sales Assistant to join our dynamic team and become an integral member of the Atherton store.

This role Focus’s on both customer service and retail merchandising, selling a wide range of farm inputs, stock feeds and gardening products while keeping a focus on the merchandising and organisation of the store and drive through.

The successful applicant will have demonstrated customer service experience and be available to work on weekends as part of a monthly roster. A forklift licence and a knowledge of the local farming industry are highly desirable.

Responsibilities: • Ensure Day to Day operations of the store are conducted efficiently and safely.

• Service customer enquiries and generate sales transactions from in store traffic.

• Loading and unloading vehicles as required.

• Conduct stock control and stock movement processes in key areas.

• Restock shelves and perform stock replenishment requests.

• Liaise with field staff to prepare sales orders and deliveries as required.

• Maintenance of a clean and tidy workplace.

• Maintain the goals and strategies of the company.

Key Criteria: • Excellent interpersonal skills, including verbal and written communication.

• Demonstrated customer service experience.

• Organisational, planning and time management skills.

• Self-motivated and organised.

Skills and Qualifications: • Current driver’s license Class C. • Strong sales and service focus.

• Strong computer skills.

• Current Forklift license or ability to obtain.

• Experience in rural retail environment preferred but not essential.

• Experience in MYOB an advantage but not essential.

Applications: Please forward a covering letter and resume to: Attn: Chris Henderson Email: chenderson@tablelandfert.com.au Applications Close: 14/3/2021.

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

CLASSIFIEDS Position Vacant VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE (TERRESTRIAL)/LIBRARY TEAM LEADER

TEAM LEADER CORPORATE SERVICES/FINANCE OFFICER Part Time (60 hours per fortnight), Fixed Term to 30 June 2023 with possible extension, Mareeba based.

TEAM LEADER AGRICULTURE Full Time / Part Time (60-75 hours per fortnight, negotiable), Fixed Term to 30 June 2023 with possible extension, Georgetown or Mareeba based.

INTENSIVE AGRICULTURE PROJECTS OFFICER Full Time / Part Time (60-75 hours per fortnight, negotiable), Fixed Term to 30 June 2023 with possible extension, Mareeba based.

Work for an organisation that facilitates community owned outcomes and balances economic activity, social and cultural interests and environmental values. Join us as we strive to support living landscapes and local livelihoods.

APPLY NOW

www.mynortherngulf.org/employment/ Applications close Monday 15 March, 2021 at 4.00pm (AEST).

DEVELOPMENTS FGF Developments is a local, Cairns region based civil construction company involved in the development, transport and infrastructure sectors.

FGF has a longstanding history of delivering a variety of civil construction projects in the local region including: subdivisions, main roads and pipelines.

CORPORATE SERVICES MANAGER

Fixed-term until 30 June 2023 • Atherton or Cooktown, other location negotiable • Full time 75 hours per fortnight (part time by negotiation) • The salary range is $103,920 - $112,486 per annum plus 5 weeks annual leave, 17.5% annual leave loading and 9.5% super guarantee Cape York Natural Resource Management (Cape York NRM) works with the people of Cape York to encourage voluntary adoption of improved natural resource management across all land tenures and land uses on Cape York. We help people to work together to promote the sustainable use of Cape York’s natural resources.

About the opportunity: Cape York NRM is looking for an experienced commercial professional with a desire to work in the natural resource management not for profit sector.

The position is accountable to the CEO as part of the Cape York NRM Leadership team, working to support delivery across the organisation. They will be responsible for management and delivery of business administration, human resource management, payroll and finance services for the organisation.

The position works closely with employees across the organisation to ensure effective integration of administrative and financial processes into the planning, delivery and monitoring of projects primarily targeted at sustainable NRM. To find out more, download the application kit at: www.capeyorknrm.com.au/about/vacancies Applications close 9am Monday 15 March 2021.

We are seeking PIPELAYERS and OPERATORS with Backhoe and Excavator Experience.

Candidates will need to demonstrate experience in their field, have civil experience and all relevant qualifications are essential.

To apply, please send your resume and cover letter to: tenders@fgf.com.au

The Doctor House Seeking a Practice Nurse (RN or EN) Applications close Monday 22nd March, 2021 Ph. 4095 2400 for an application package

HOUSING SUPPORT OFFICER Mareeba Community Housing Company is recruiting for Housing Support Officer to join our team working under the Homelessness Support Services. The position is full time working from our Mareeba office.

The person we are seeking to join our team will be highly motivated, dedicated to quality client services, willing to undertake professional development, high level of computer skills and actively participate in team environment.

Tertiary qualification working in the social services, health or education sector is desirable with essential requirements for the position police check and Qld open licence.

Position description and application process available by contacting the office on 4092 6899 or email: reception@mchc.org.au Position closes Monday 15th March 2021.

Diesel Fitter

Required for busy local agricultural machinery dealership, full time position, above award wages apply.

P: 0408 184 601

Classified deadlines

4pm Friday prior to the next week’s publication

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

WATER QUALITY PROJECT COORDINATOR

Fixed term until 30 June, 2022 • Atherton or Cooktown based • Full time 75 hours per fortnight • The salary range is $69,935 - $75,700 per annum plus 5 weeks annual leave, 17.5% annual leave loading and 9.5% super guarantee Are you the one?

We require a person who is: • Innovative and experienced in water quality monitoring, erosion control and revegetation • Passionate about water quality and building capacity within the community • Enjoys engaging and building relationships with others • Is relaxed and friendly and wants to work in remote and beautiful Cape York To find out more, download the application kit at: www.capeyorknrm.com.au/about/vacancies Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are encouraged to apply.

Applications close 9am Monday 15 March 2021.

Cape York Natural Resource Management (Cape York NRM) works with the people of Cape York to encourage voluntary adoption of improved natural resource management across all land tenures and land uses on Cape York. We help people to work together to promote the sustainable use of Cape York’s natural resources.

The Terrestrial/Library Team Leader will provide a high standard of customer service to both visitors and locals of the Etheridge Shire. Whilst conducting their work in line with current policies, current procedures and work instructions.

Etheridge Shire Council is currently seeking an experienced, dedicated, motivated and enthusiastic Terrestrial/Library Team Leader to oversee the day to day operations of the V.I.C (TerrEstrial) Centres Ted Elliott Mineral Collection and Library. Position also involves providing accurate tourism information to passing tourists and responding promptly to requests for tourism information, the production and distribution of the Etheridge Shires promotional brochures, supervision of centre staff and operations of the Georgetown Library.

Etheridge Shire Council is dedicated to providing high quality customer service to its external and internal customers, but we also value our staff and the important role that they play. This position offers above award wages, the ability to salary sacrifice superannuation contributions and a fortnightly rostered day off.

The successful applicant must be able to fulfil or demonstrate how they can meet the key requirements and accountabilities as detailed within the position description.

Applications can be posted, delivered to the Administration Office, faxed or emailed to: Position Vacant – V.I.C (Terrestrial)/Library Team Leader The Chief Executive Officer Etheridge Shire Council PO Box 12 GEORGETOWN QLD 4871 Fax: 07 4062 1285 Email: info@etheridge.qld.gov.au

LG000409

NRM Focussed Vacancies RECRUITING NOW!

• FANTASTIC OPPORTUNITY TO WORK WITHIN A TEAM ENVIRONMENT AND PROVIDE LEADERSHIP

Further information can be obtained by contacting Council’s Director of Corporate and Community Services, Ian Kuhn on Ph: 07 40799007 or email info@etheridge.qld.gov.au or Councils website www.etheridge.qld.gov.au Applications close at 4 pm Friday 19th March 2021 Ken Timms CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

Cash 4 Containers FNQ Is seeking a hands-on person to supervise our Mareeba Depot

The successful applicant will have the following attributes: • Excellent customer service skills • Excellent math and cash handling skills • Good communication skills • Good organisational and time management skills • Experience in supervising small teams • Good IT skills (computers and Android apps) • Ability to understand and work with basic spreadsheets • Good understanding of WHS • Willingness to be hands-on on the floor • Be physically capable of sorting and lifting containers and working on their feet for extended periods in a fast-paced environment Please email resume to: hrmanager.commservices@gmail.com

RADCARE SUPPORT SERVICES Has a position available for a

Registered Nurse/Case Manager The successful applicant will be required to provide nursing care and case management for our Home Care Package clients in the Atherton Tablelands area.

The position can be casual or permanent part time, hours are flexible, approximately 40 hours per fortnight This is a role share position and ongoing training will be provided. Above Award wages and Salary Sacrifice arrangements available.

Experience in Aged Care is desirable.

Expressions of interest and resumes can be emailed to: wecare@radcare.com.au Or for further information please ring Tina or Liz 4097 7263

ARE LOOKING FOR A

HYDRO VACUUM TRUCK OPERATOR

(No experience necessary as on-site training is provided) That works well with others and has the following: • MR Licence • Construction Safety Card • Mechanical knowledge is an advantage Above award wages and full time employment for the right applicant.

If this is you, or you want more information please send enquiries or forward resume to:

bronson.elise@bigpond.com

YOUR LOCAL CLASSIFIEDS

Machinery hire

SKID STEER DRY HIRE • Kubota SSV75 Skid Steer + 6-in-1 Bucket • Other Attachments Available for Hire • Hedger, Auger, Trencher • Short & Long Term Hire Options • Competitive Rates

Phone: Alex 0419 948 629

The Express Newspaper delivers over 13,000 newspapers to: Mareeba, Dimbulah, Kuranda, Walkamin, Tolga, Atherton, Kairi, Malanda, Millaa Millaa, Yungaburra, Ravenshoe, Herberton, Koah, Speewah, Mutchilba, Almaden, Chillagoe, Biboohra, Mt Molloy, Julatten, Mt Carbine, Cooktown, Lakeland, Laura, Normonton, Mt Surprise, Mt Garnet, Croydon, Forsayth, Einsleigh, Karumba, Georgetown, Cairns, Mossman, Port Douglas and many more in between!

GOT A POSITION VACANT? Contact tash today to place an advert: admin@theexpressnewspaper.com.au or phone 4092 3464.

The Express, Wednesday, March 10, 2021 PAGE 37

CLASSIFIEDS Public Notice Class of ‘67 Lunch Mareeba Heritage Centre 1.00pm, 24th April, 2021 RSVP by 20th April Please.

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

Contact Rena on our Facebook message group, Email: cljgelhp20@gmail.com Or Phone 0412 840 107

RSLA (QLD) MAREEBA SUB BRANCH INC. Notice is hereby given that the Annual General Meeting of the RSLA (Qld) Mareeba Sub Branch Inc. will be held at the Sub Branch Offices, 80 Byrnes Street, Mareeba, on Saturday 27th March, 2021 commencing at 11:00am.

Agenda Items Financial Report, Committee Reports, Re-election of Committee Members, Appointment of Auditor and Solicitor.

Nominations can be posted or emailed to the Secretary Cheryl Powell Emmerson.

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING Tuesday 30th March, 2021 All enquiries to Jeanette Sturiale gm@mareebakidscampus.com.au

ATHERTON LIONS CLUB

INDOOR MARKETS Fresh fruit and vegetables, plants, arts and crafts, clothing, bric a brac, coins, bank notes, stamps, jewellery, gemstones, working hot air engine display, Lions foodstuff and much more!

Merriland Hall, Atherton Show Grounds Sunday 14th March, 7am to 12noon Sites Only $10.00 - New Stall Holders Welcome!

Contact: 0448 336 035 E: marketsathertonlions@gmail.com

AL-ANON FAMILY GROUPS For friends and family of Alcoholics.

Meetings in Yungaburra P: 0413 346 957

Classified deadlines

4pm Friday prior to the next week’s publication

Email: info@Mareeba.rslqld.net.au PO Box 179, Mareeba 4880 Please contact the Secretary on 0419 636 163 if you require any information on the nomination process.

YOUR LOCAL CLASSIFIEDS

For reNt

FuNeral

SERVICED OFFICES FOR RENT

DEBBIE BOARDMAN

1 Jack Street, Atherton P: 0414 700 081

Funeral Celebrant Final farewells with respect.

Phone 0410 328 357

ADVERTISING works. Call The Express on 4092 3464 to place your advert by 4pm Friday

WaNted to reNt WANTED TO RENT 4 Bedroom House with Double Lockup Garage Atherton, Tolga, Yungaburra, Malanda area. Rent up to $500pw. Real Estate references available.

Please Call Daniella 0472 694 901

WaNted MOTORCYCLES WANTED 2 or 4 wheels, running or not.

Will pay cash!

Pick up in most areas.

 0400 079 544

SPORT

COVID restrictions prevent country races in 2021 Queensland Rugby League Grass Roots Club of the Year!

ATHERTON SENIOR ROOSTERS 2021 RUGBY LEAGUE PRE-SEASON TRIALS

COVID 19 RULES WILL APPLY

THIS SATURDAY, MARCH 13 @ ATHERTON’S MUNGALLI CREEK DAIRY STADIUM • 4.00PM: SPAR MALANDA UNDER 18 Roosters vs Mossman Scorpions • 6.00PM: HIT 97.9 TABLELANDS FIRST GRADE Roosters vs Herbert River Crushers • 7.30PM: Eacham JRL UNDER 14’s Roosters vs Ravenshoe Tigers

IN 2020, both the Laura and Einasleigh Races were cancelled due to COVID’s landfall on Australian shores, now in 2021 they are cancelled again thanks to the costs associated with running a COVID-safe event.

The races have now been moved to be a part of the Mareeba Turf Club’s race card during this year, giving the club six races instead of their intended four.

The costs associated with running a race meet pale in comparison to running a COVID-safe meet that complies with all the government’s new regulations and procedures.

For races that are only hosted once a year over several days, forking out tens of thousands of dollars for things that they normally would not be needed, is not viable.

President of the Laura Turf Club Graham Love said that while the decision is unfortunate the opportunity to co-host the meet still gives the club the option to make money and connections.

“We said that we would cohost with Mareeba and let them have another race day which helps out the trainers, jockeys and patrons,” he said.

“We will just divide up the profit from the day, so our club gets a little bit to keep us afloat.

“Most of our volunteers will be there to assist with running the race on the day, we will be trying to support them as much as we can on the day and afterwards.”

Since both the Laura and Einasleigh races are both yearly and over several days, the costs associated, and the logistics required are too strenuous.

However, both clubs have said that they will not bury their heads in the sand and will look to host their own events again come 2022.

Mulgrave victorious in CFN first grade final MULGRAVE have triumphed over Rovers to win Saturday’s Cricket Far North first grade grand final.

Rovers who were the minor

premiers, were bowled out for 104 runs in 40.4 overs before Mulgrave chased down the 104 runs required for victory with five wickets in hand and 13

overs spare.

Norths defeated Mulgrave in the Cricket Far North T20 ladies grand final also held at the weekend.

MATCH DAY PARTNER

FOOD AND REFRESHMENTS ON SALE Howe Farming Chook Pen Bar Sign Hub Clubhouse Poggioli Farming 100 Year Bar PAGE 38 The Express, Wednesday, March 10, 2021

54 MAIN ST, ATHERTON | PHONE 4091 1006 www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

SPORT

First trial match ends in draw Mareeba Gladiators chase down Roosters forward Matt Baillie on Saturday night.

A TRY in the final seconds has helped the Atherton Roosters lock up a 18 all draw with the Mareeba Gladiators in their pre-

season first grade rugby league trial at Mareeba on Saturday night.

Saturday’s trial marked both

teams first appearance in twelve months and there was a strong crowd at Davies Park.

It was the Gladiators who

Rain dampens race day A QUICK day of racing was held in Atherton on Saturday with the Atherton Turf Club hosting a meet before getting washed out after race two.

Conditions on the track did little to dampen the spirts of both spectators and jockeys before the meet was eventually cancelled as the weather escalated.

The first race was the QTIS Maiden Plate 1000m which went to Danni’s Ruler ridden

by Bonnie Thomson while the second and last race of the day the 1400m Maiden Plate went to Cider Apple ridden by Wanderson D’Avila.

April 10 is the next race date set in for the Atherton Turf Club

Jockey Bonnie Thomson and Danni’s Ruler won race one.

surprised the Roosters defence early, with captain/coach Trent Barnard slicing through to open the scoring after only two min-

utes of play.

Minutes later the Gladiators went over again and now led 12-0.

The Roosters got over the line for their first four pointer just before the break and the sides went to halftime with the Gladiators up 12-4.

Soon after the restart the Gladiators crossed for another try to push the score out to 18-4.

The visitors then surged back into the contest with three unanswered tries to lock up the final score at 18 all.

Winger Ty Grogan’s try in the corner as the final seconds counted down gave Atherton a sniff of victory but his attempted conversion of his own try from the sideline was waved away.

In reserve grade, the Roosters finished 16-8 winners over Mareeba.

Earlier the Gladiators under 18 side won their trial 6-0 against Mossman Scorpions.

This Saturday the Roosters play pre-season trials at home with the first grade side playing the Herbert River Crushers and the under 18 side up against Mossman Scorpions.

Pre-season trials also continue for the Mareeba Gladiators this Saturday who travel to Vico Oval for three games with Kangaroos.

The Senior Roosters ladies tackle side also trial with Kangaroos at Vico Oval this Saturday.

TABLELANDS Family Martial Arts

For men, women & children

SIGN ON NIGHT

Monday 15th March, 6.15pm to 7.15pm Sports Hall, Walsh St (Next to skatepark) Fitness, Fun & Self Defence... Never too old to join...

Costs nothing to try!

FREE UNIFORM WHEN YOU ENROL FOR FURTHER INFORMATION PHONE 0409 055 450 with an action packed five race card booked for the day.

Racing returns to Mareeba Turf Club this Saturday.

New members always welcome!

fnqhub.com.au

2 COOK ST, ATHERTON www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

The Express, Wednesday, March 10, 2021 PAGE 39

NEW FORD VEHICLES

RANGER WILDTRAK X DUAL CAB 3.2 litre auto turbo diesel, includes black wheel arch flares, unique front grille, rear sail plane, premium interior, 5yr/ unlimited kilometre warranty, 1yr auto club membership.

$70,465 DRIVEAWAY

EVEREST TREND WAGON 2.0 litre bi-turbo diesel 10 speed auto, rear wheel drive, driver assist technology, 5yr/unlimited kilometre warranty, 12 months auto club membership.

$54,990 DRIVEAWAY

USED VEHICLES

MAZDA CXḋ3 MAXX SPORT PETROL AUTO STARTING FROM

• 8.8 Inch Widescreen Display • Mazda Radar Cruise Control • Satellite Navigation

(2020 Built - Limited Stock)

$33,500 Drive Away

MAZDA CXḋ5 MAXX SPORT PETROL AUTO

MAZDA CXḋ8 SPORT PETROL AUTO

• Blind Sport Monitoring • 16-inch Alloy Wheels

STARTING FROM

$28,990 Drive Away 2015 FORD ECOSPORT SUV Automatic, only 31,500 kilometres, one local owner vehicle, full service history, 12 months warranty.

$12,990 DRIVEAWAY

2019 FORD EVEREST TREND 4WD 7 seater wagon, 3.2 litre turbo diesel auto, tow bar, only 16,500klms, balance of 5 year factory warranty.

$54,990 DRIVEAWAY

MAZDA CXḋ30 PURE PETROL AUTO

2018 HONDA HR-V VTi automatic, sat nav, tow bar, alloy wheels, cruise control, 12 months warranty, rego until 1/22.

$23,490 DRIVEAWAY

2016 TOYOTA HILUX SR5 EXTRA CAB 4x4 style side utility, manual, bull bar, side rails, suspension upgrade plus more, 12 months warranty.

$49,990 DRIVEAWAY

HANSEN FORD Andrew Ford: 0417 633 002 - Claude Formoso: 0477 229 949 - Drew McKenzie: 0400 068 700 279 Byrnes Street, Mareeba - 4092 9400 - www.hansenford.com.au

FINANCE

*

P.A COMPARISON RATE MAX 36 MONTH TERM

NISSAN NAVARA N-TREK 4X4 MANUAL

$55,790 DRIVE AWAY ABN BUYERS ONLY (STOCK NO 2666083)

5YR

$36,990 Drive Away

$41,490 Drive Away

STARTING FROM

(2020 Built - Limited Stock)

STARTING FROM

(2020 Built - Limited Stock)

After Hours: David Mete 0408 793 050 Peter Acha 0417 006 698 or Adrian Madrid 0413 745 247

NEW NISSAN X-TRAIL ST

2.5 Litre Auto 5 Door 2WD Wagon

$30,990 Drive Away*

UNLIMITED KILOMETRE WARRANTY

Chano Trentin’s ALL WHEEL DRIVE CENTRE Vernon St, Atherton • 4030 5400 • www.allwheeldrivecentre.com.au *Conditions, fees and charges apply. 1% Comparison rate for approved personal and business applicants of Nissan Financial Services (Australian Credit Licence Number 391464). 1% APR. Maximum 36 month term. WARNING: This comparison rate is true only for the example given and may not include all fees and charges. Different terms, fees or other loan amounts might result in a different comparison rate. This comparison rate for the purpose of the national credit code is based on 5 year secured loan of $30,000, although this offer relates to a 36 month term only. Offer available on new and demonstrator Nissan MY20 Navara Dual Cab 4WD ST-X, N-TREK & N-TREK Warrior models purchased and delivered by 31/03/2021. Excludes Government, Rental and National Fleet customers. Nissan reserves the right to vary, extend or withdraw this offer. Not available in conjunction with any other offer. See Nissan.com.au/warranty for warranty T&Cs.

PAGE 40 The Express, Wednesday, March 10, 2021

• Three-zone Climate Control • Radar Cruise Control

313-315 Byrnes Street, Mareeba Phone 4092 5100 www.mareebamazda.com.au

Go Further

1%

• Satellite Navigation • Dual-Zone Climate Control

Chano Trentin’s ALL WHEEL DRIVE CENTRE Vernon St, Atherton • 4030 5400 • www.allwheeldrivecentre.com.au Valid until 31/03/2021 (Stock No 2631823)

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au