The Express Newspaper 24th February 2021

EXPRESS Delivering news across our region

The

Wednesday, FEBRUARY 24, 2021

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

HAPPY DAYS: Alan and Rachelle with their young family were lucky to find the perfect home in Walkamin.

Facebook cuts off Australian news sites Facebook’s move to block all Australian news sites on its platform has not only affected multinational news organisations, but also free community news that is vital our region.

rental boom

Rental properties across the region have become a rarity with an influx of new residents moving to the area. Some have viewed this growth as a crisis, while others see it as an indication to the region’s current expansion and development ■ FULL STORY P7

American social media giant Facebook flexed its muscles last week when it decided to ban the hosting of and sharing of all Australian news content on its platform.

Most small and large news organisations were impacted including small community run newspapers like The Express, all the way up to the multinational news corporations.

The move also included some innocent bystanders being removed from the platform, including The Bureau of Meteorology, Queensland Health, DV (domestic violence) Connect and several schools across Far North Queensland. Most of these pages were restored within 48 hours.

Locally The Start-up and Innovation Tablelands Facebook page was also taken down.

The news ban comes after three years of negotiations between Facebook and the Federal Government, who acting on behalf of the news organisations is trying to legislate that Facebook must pay to use the news organisations content on

their platform.

After being caught up in the spat, The Express Newspaper’s Managing Director, Carl Portella pointed out that our news has always been free, both in print and online.

“We have been supplying free news on our website and in our papers for over 10 years now,” he said. “We are more like a community service than a multinational profit-making entity.

“We can’t tell what the future holds, but our website is still free and updated regularly and we will continue to publish and giveaway our newspaper as we have always done.”

Mr Portella also said there had been innocent victims in the current Facebook storm.

“There have been innocent businesses caught up in this reaction who have nothing to do with news, including Queensland Health in the middle of a pandemic and the BOM in the middle of cyclone season, Facebook needs to take another look at their algorithm.”

■ CONTINUED P3

Mosaic pathway goes viral

A local Mareeba artist has become an internet sensation after her mosaic pathway went viral.

Pictures of the hopscotch pathway have now been shared all over the world and to date has clocked up over 1.8 million views.

Lesly Watson said she is a self-taught artist who likes recycling old items and turning them into art.

“I’ve taken a few courses here and there but have no formal training,” she said.

“I have been incorporating art into the homes I have been renovating for the past 25 years.”

Lesly said she created the path as an entrance to her home as a fun game for her grandchildren, children, family, and friends to enjoy when they come to visit.

“I started in August with

the numbered squares and then it took of from there,” she said.

“It took approximately 300 hours and 60,000 pieces of tile to complete.”

Lesly is a self claimed bowerbird collecting tiles from wherever she can.

“Sometimes people give them to me and then I’ve also found some at garage sales,” she said.

“I collect all sorts of things that I try to incorporate into my art.

“Maud is the name I call my house as she was built around the 1930. Rather fitting that a hopscotch path now leads to my front door.

“I have now started a Facebook page to document the past, current and future works I am doing, and it’s called Mosaics on Maud.”

ART: Lesly Watson’s hopscotch pathway in Mareeba which took more than 300 hours to make using over 60,000 pieces of tile.

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Face off over Facebook ban Managing Editor of The Express Newspaper, Carl Portella said the Facebook ban won’t stop him distributing free, local community news.

BY PHIL BRANDEL aUSTRALIAN’S woke up on Thursday morning last week to find their news feeds lacking news after Facebook wiped the pages of the nation’s news publishers.

After the blocking, which came with no warning, Facebook released a statement defending their action.

“Unfortunately, in response to Australia’s proposed News Media Bargaining Code legislation, Facebook will have to restrict publishers and people in Australia from sharing or viewing Australian and international news content on Facebook.

“People outside of Australia

also cannot view or share Australian news content or content from Australian news Pages on Facebook.

“This is not the outcome we wanted and it's a step we take reluctantly. The proposed law fundamentally misunderstands the relationship between our platform and publishers who use it to share news content.

“This discussion has focused on U.S. technology companies and how they benefit from news content on their services. We understand many will ask why the platforms may respond differently. The answer is because our platforms have fundamentally different relationships with news.

“Google Search is inextricably

intertwined with news and publishers do not voluntarily provide their content. On the other hand, publishers willingly choose to post news on Facebook, as it allows them to sell more subscriptions, grow their audiences and increase advertising revenue.

“Last year Facebook generated approximately 5.1 billion free referrals to Australian publishers worth an estimated AU$407 million. Despite some of these discussions, Facebook does not steal, take or copy news content.

“The proposed law ignores these investments and the real value we provide to news organisations. The proposed law is written in a way that means we have to treat all publishers the same: if one publisher is out, it requires that all publishers must also be out, even if they are happy with the benefits they receive from Facebook.

“The changes affecting news content – which constitutes less than 4 percent of content shared on Facebook – will not otherwise change Facebook's products and services in Australia.”

Federal Member for Kennedy, Bob Katter fired back saying Facebook’s ‘dummy-spit’ over the proposed Federal Government

laws that would make them pay for news, is a golden opportunity for Australia to build its own social media platform.

“This is an opportunity to build something by creating an Australia social media platform, like Facebook, and we should not be held to ransom by a jumped-up, super-rich, American know it all,” he said.

“In Queensland we built and owned the railways, the electricity network and we built the coal industry, the aluminium industry and the tourism industry.”

Mr Katter admits it may take time for Australians to migrate to a new platform, but it would have ongoing benefits for democracy and sovereignty.

Mr Katter is a supporter of making the tech giants pay for news as most of the newspapers in the Kennedy Electorate have closed in the last decade.

“Without a news service, without a local media, the town ceases to exist,” he said.

“I say the American tech-giants should leave town immediately.

We will run our own affairs thank you. An Australian-owned social media would restore the power of the Australian media.”

To continue to access free local news online head to our website – www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

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Government to build the alternative road to Cairns – the Bridle Track highway. We have given TMR a topographical map of the proposed road and I have discussed this proposal with them and the Federal Government’s Assistant Transport Minister, Scott Buchholz.

There is now no alternative.”

A Spokesperson from TMR said that the report is yet to be completed but they would provide an update to stakeholders as soon as the information was available.

“We are carrying out inspections on the Barron River Bridge, near Kuranda,” they said.

“The bridge has been reduced to one lane until these inspections are complete.

“We will receive a report this month (February), which will provide recommendations about the bridge’s future.

“The report is a technical document that is not suitable for publication.

“We will provide an update to stakeholders and the public as soon as further information is available.

“It is safe, and the single-lane closure is a precautionary measure during investigations.

“We thank motorists and residents for their patience.”

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A long awaited report on the condition of the Barron River Bridge at Kuranda won’t be released to the public because it is ‘too technical’ according to Transport and Main Roads (TMR).

Member for Kennedy, Bob Katter said he is not happy with that decision and that motorists have a right to know if the bridge is safe to use and for how the single lane access and weight restrictions will remain.

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

“It’s time for the State

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Mareeba 4092 2290 Atherton 4091 1122 Malanda 4096 5300 Mossman 4098 1502 The Express, Wednesday, February 24, 2021 PAGE 3

Frogbit banned BANNED: Mareeba Shire Council has taken the initiative and put pressure on the State Government after they made an emergency declaration banning Frogbit across the Shire.

In a bid to stem the growing tide of Amazon Frogbit, Mareeba Shire Council (MSC) has declared the plant a local pest via an emergency declaration.

The decision to list Frogbit as a local pest was made at last week’s ordinary Council meeting and it was passed unanimously with the declaration coming into effect as soon as the motion was carried.

Declaring the weed as a local pest will prohibit the sale, propagation and harbouring of the weed within MSC. There will be a communication period to residents inform-

ing them of the new law and fines will not be issued immediately to residents. If they fail to comply, Council will issue steep fines if the law is ignored.

For over a year Amazon Frogbit has been suffocating local creeks including the Atherton and Granite creeks before recent rains flushed it out and it took hold within the Barron River.

MSC Mayor Angela Toppin said that this is just the first measure to come to help stop the spread of Frogbit.

“We have taken the initiative because it is impacting our

Shire and the environmental impact is growing,” she said.

“It reproduces exponentially and it is clogging up our waterways.

“We pressured the State Government to ban it and their comeback was, unless you take some initiative in your own Shire then don’t come knocking on our door.”

Local organization such as Muluridji Tribal Aboriginal Corporation have been fighting alongside Council to clear and maintain local waterways affected by Frogbit.

They will continue to fight

a losing battle until the weed is banned state-wide and Council can secure sustainable longterm funding for its eradication.

Frogbit is banned within the Mareeba Shire for a maximum of three months under the emergency declaration. This gives Council breathing room to start of process of getting the weed banned permanently in local law.

For more information on how to safely dispose of Amazon Frogbit contact the Council on 1300 308 461.

Mareeba to see new CBD parking

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NEW PARKS: Mareeba Shire Mayor Angela Toppin excited to see Mareeba CBD’s newest parking precinct.

The ongoing parking game in Mareeba will no longer cause grief to locals with a car park transformation commencing at Railway Avenue.

According to Mareeba Shire Council (MSC), their goal is to expand the existing parking spaces to accommodate a further 61 cars, six motorcycles and 18 RVs. Council crews are expected to take up to three months, weather permitting, to complete the project funded by the Queensland Government’s Transport and Tourism Connection Program.

The precinct will have a

free eight-hour parking limit making it convenient for workers in the CBD and will have solar powered lights installed to improve community safety.

With construction already underway, Mayor Angela Toppin said they will inform surrounding businesses and locals of any disruption’s the transformation may make and

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keep them to an absolute minimum.

Mayor Angela Toppin said that this is a very exciting project for the CBD of Mareeba.

“It is a very exciting project for the town and will certainly improve the amenity of the town and we hope that locals that require parking in terms of going to work have the pressure eased,” she said.

“It will also be great in terms of the grey nomad visitors coming into town with RV’s, so they can easily park and go shopping or to lunch.”

A few trees and shrubs have had to been removed from the area to create new parking and for solar lights, but Mayor Toppin said locals will still see some the larger tree still standing strong.

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New Shire marketing set to kick off with a bang ton Tablelands (TAT).

Bang Media successfully applied for the Kuranda tourism tender in July of 2020 which is set to run until the end of June this year.

Council will invest $25,000 per year for three years to Bang Media as they market the Shire outwards attempting to garner more statewide and eventual international visitors.

MSC Mayor Angela Toppin said the campaign would be timely and a welcome boost for those businesses that have been feeling the effects of COVID. “We believe that in COVID times we need to market our Shire more because we want to attract the southerners as visitors here, we’re not going to get the overseas visitors for a number of years,” she said.

“We felt that this was important in trying to attract visitors to the Shire.

“The Shire has many amazing and unique places, and the campaign will showcase all the towns across the Shire including

VISIT: Bang Media has been successful in receiving the tender for the digital marketing of the Mareeba Shire, looking to attract out of state visitors.

PHOTO: BK MEDIA.

Bang Media have been given the mission of promoting Mareeba Shire to potential visitors after being awarded the Mareeba

Shire Council (MSC) digital marketing campaign.

The decision to award the tender to Bang Media from

Cairns was passed at last week’s ordinary council meeting making Bang Media the recipient of two marketing tenders from

Council.

They successfully beat out two other tender applications, one being from Tourism Ather-

COVID vaccine gets rolled out locally The very first COVID vaccinations in The Far North were administered at the Cairns Hospital on Monday making it one of the first in Australia to do so.

As part of the COVID Vaccination Program, people in priority groups who are most at risk and who need protection the most, received the vaccine first.

Frontline healthcare workers and quarantine and border workers were the first to receive the vaccine through the dedicated Pfizer hubs.

Federal Leichhardt MP Warren Entsch said the staged approach to the rollout would ensure those who need the most protection get it first.

“From this week, some of our most essential workers and

“The priority in the first weeks of the program is to ensure that vaccination is offered to those at the highest risk of exposure to COVID and to those who are at the highest risk of severe disease.

“The Department of Health is working with all Hospital and Health Services, including Cairns and Hinterland, on planning and preparing for the vaccination rollout.

“As larger supplies of AstraZeneca vaccine become available, which are expected from mid to late March, the vaccination program will be progressively expanded across Queensland.

“People living in Queensland’s regional, rural and re-

vulnerable Australians in Cairns and Far North Queensland will be vaccinated, with more of our community to follow in the coming weeks and months,” he said.

“The initial priority groups will include aged care and disability care residents and workers, frontline healthcare workers, and quarantine and border workers.

“The rollout will begin with the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine and the AstraZeneca/Oxford vaccine from early March.”

A Queensland Health spokesperson said in a written statement that Vaccine supplies were currently limited, and Australia must prioritise who receives the vaccine.

mote regions will be offered the COVID vaccine at the earliest possible opportunity.

“More locations will come online, including more hospitals, and GPs and pharmacies will deliver the vaccine to more Queenslanders, as safety and quickly as possible.”

Find out more about the rollout and priority groups at: www.aus.gov.au

Kuranda, Mareeba and Chillagoe.”

Council has set March 31 as the deadline for Bang Media to start marketing the Shire to potential visitors.

Throughout last year the Mareeba Chamber of Commerce (MCOC) were advocates for local tourism and supporting local.

Now with the Council taking the step forward to promote the Shire the Chamber is hopeful that more tourism initiatives will follow.

“Anything that helps promote tourism is a good result as a Chamber we have spent a lot of time and effort promoting what we can,” MCOC President Joe Moro said.

“It’s good to see the Council now putting more effort into promoting the Mareeba Shire.

“We imagine in due course that the Chamber will be consulted about what is being planned and hopefully local tourism operators will get some input into how the campaign will be run.”

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Fundraising day for baby Patrick

OPEN: Store Managers Nina Avolio and Jess Gorton cutting the ribbon on the New K hub in Mareeba with MSC Mayor Angela Toppin.

KHub comes to town Shopping fans were in for a treat last week as the new K hub (Kmart) opened in Mareeba.

The new store opened on Wednesday, February 17 on Walsh Street on the site of the old Target Country store.

The opening comes after Wesfarmers announced in May 2020 that up to 167 Target and Target Country stores would be shut or converted to Kmart stores.

In a later announcement, Wesfarmers confirmed that Target Atherton would close, while the Target stores in Mareeba and Port Douglas would convert to

K-Mart.

Target Mareeba closed its doors on January 30, while Target Atherton closed on January 23. It’s believed that some Target Atherton staff picked up jobs at the new Mareeba Khub.

Jess Gorton, Store Manager of K hub Mareeba said they were happy to be open and trading in Mareeba.

“We’ve been part of the Mareeba community for the past 14 years and we’re so excited to continue our journey with Kmart,” she said.

“Our K hub store is stocked full of great value, on-trend

products that we know our customers are going to absolutely love.

“The store will also offer customers unprecedented accessibility to two of our key Kmart Group brands, as the hub will become a collection point for online Target orders.

“Customers will also be welcomed into store with some familiar faces. 19 of our Target team members have joined the K hub team; and we’re thrilled to have been able to recruit another 7 team members from the local community with additional recruitment still ongoing.”

FUNDRAISER: Georgetown is getting behind one of its own with a fundraiser on March 7 after baby Patrick Willis was flown to Townsville Hospital with viral meningitis.

One of Georgetown's smallest citizens is suffering a serious illness and the community have come together to support the Willis family in their time of need.

Little Patrick Willis contracted viral meningitis a few weeks ago at just under six-months of age and he and his parents Emma (nee Delacourt) and Dan Willis of Eveleigh Station have been in Townsville with him since then.

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The hospital is now talking about transitioning Patrick out of ICU and into an outpatient situation, but the family are facing a long, difficult and uncertain future, complicated by their geographical isolation.

The people of Georgetown are putting on a fundraising day for Patrick, Emma and Dan at the town's Sports Centre on Sunday, March 7 from 10am.

Everyone is welcome to attend and unite with locals

in a game of tennis or indoor bowls, compete in the triathlon or for something quieter, join in with the raffles and the auction followed by some lunch and a prayer for the young family in need.

Donations for the auction to be held on the day or cash donations online are welcome.

For more information and to make a donation please contact Deidre Hickey on 0417 532 327.

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Rentals hot property by rhys thomas

RENTAL properties across the region have become hot property in recent months. Unable to keep up with current demand, rentals have become a rare commodity.

However this is not necessarily a bad thing as it shows growth and prosperity after a time of recession.

With the current rise in demand for housing, there is an equal rise in new residents moving to the area with many relocating from other towns and cities in search of jobs and a rural lifestyle.

There are simply just not enough rental properties currently available to stem the tide of new residents looking to settle.

The current limited rental market and heightened building market has become a telltale sign of the region’s current economic and industrial development.

Norma Moloney from Ray White Mareeba said that the local rental market has always been tight but over the past couple of months it has increased in demand.

“There are just not enough properties for the amount of people that are applying at the moment,” she said.

“We get a diverse range of people coming through from locals to out of towners and a whole range of nationalities.

“There are so many people screaming out for rentals on so-

cial media and you see it every day, it’s across the whole Tablelands.

“The market is just so tight at the moment.”

Alan and Rachelle moved into their new home in Walkamin after relocating from Townsville where they saw a stark difference in the market.

“You’d still look in the paper and there would be 50 to 100 properties at any given time,” Allan said.

“Whereas up here when we were searching there was a selection of six to eight at the time.”

Out of these properties there were only two that were available on the Tablelands within the time frame the family wanted.

Due to Allan being a new teacher at Jubilee Christian College in Atherton, he wanted to move before the new school year began.

“We realized we couldn’t be picky, you had to get what you were offered,” Rachelle said.

“We were surprised at the price of it, coming from Townsville we thought it would be cheaper up here but it’s not.

“If we weren’t offered this house, we didn’t know what we were doing next.”

Due to work and the need for a lifestyle change the family had decided to move up north and settled on Walkamin with the help of Ray White Mareeba.

With a young family of four kids both Allan and Rachelle strive to give their kids a quiet, small town upbringing.

“With the kids at the age that they are at we’re keen to give them a small-town country upbringing,” he said.

“We feel settled here and our daughter has had a quick adjustment to school.”

The couple’s eldest child, Maddi, has already come home after school bragging to her parents about all the friends she is making.

This rise in the regions growth and prosperity in the region was reflected at the recent Mareeba Shire Council (MSC) meeting last Wednesday.

In a report tabled to Council it showed a massive spike in dwelling approvals compared to 2019.

In the July to December quarter for 2019 there was 75 dwellings approved which then jumped to 118 approvals for the same quarter in 2020.

The report states that Council’s dwelling approvals are the highest they have been since MSC was formed in 2014.

MSC Mayor Angela Toppin said that the rise in building approvals is welcome news and something that Council is pleased with.

“It is wonderful news for our Shire as it indicates that this is a growing Shire and that people have confidence about moving here,” she said.

“It creates jobs and brings prosperity to our local businesses.

“Council is very proud, it is a tremendous boost for our Shire.”

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WINNER: Mareeba Lions Club President Gary Searle presents the Tom Braes trophy to Mareeba State High School student Dailin Joshua after winning the Lions Youth of the Year Quest on Saturday night.

SUCCESS: St Stephen’s Catholic College student Diya Franklin was a announced the winner of the public speaking section of the Lions Youth of the Year quest.

The Mareeba Lions Club held its annual Lions Youth of the Year Quest on Saturday night, February 20 at the Mareeba Bowls club.

The quest aims to select an outstanding youth to be an ambassador of his/her country and to travel overseas under the auspices of Lions Clubs International.

On Saturday both Mareeba State High School and St Stephen’s Catholic College were represented on the evening.

will be held in Mareeba on March 13.

The quest, for secondary school students and young people about to join the working world began in Queensland in 1963.

It is designed to foster, encourage and develop leadership in conjunction with other citizenship qualities for young students, at the age when they are about to enter the fields of employment and higher education.

Each student was tasked with answering two impromptu questions and delivery of their prepared speeches on a topic of their choosing.

Mareeba State High School Captain Dailin Joshua was announced the overall winner, while St Stephens Catholic College student Diya Franklin was awarded the Public Speaking award.

Dailin will now represent the Mareeba Lions Club in the Zone final this year which

The Lions Youth the of the Year Quest provides students with the incentive to pay greater attention to the general qualities that are so vital in further developing their skills.

The qualities sought after, apart from academic attainments are those of leadership, personality, sportsmanship, public speaking and good citizenship.

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VISIT FOR YOUR FREE BATTERY TEST PAGE 8 The Express, Wednesday, February 24, 2021

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

COVID campaign targets low vaccination areas With the COVID vaccine set to be rolled out across Australia, low vaccination areas in Australia have been targeted for a nationwide information campaign.

Kuranda has been identified as one of Queensland’s lowest areas for vaccination uptakes in the State, with only 89.45% of infants from 12 to 15 months fully vaccinated and 88.67% of 24 to 27-month-old infants.

The issue was addressed by the Australian Government as they launched a COVID Vaccine Information Campaign targeting areas of low vaccinations.

Last Monday 142,000 doses of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine were set to be distributed to frontline workers across Australia, something which the Informed Medical Options Party (IMOP) Committee Member for Tara

Garrozo disagrees with.

“The clinical trials for these vaccines are not expected to be completed until 2022-23,” she said.

“Until trials are finished in mid2022-23 I don’t think there should be any mandatory requirements to take the vaccine at all.

“I refuse to be a guinea pig or a lab rat.”

Tara has said that several frontline workers have approached her stating that they will not be taking the vaccine due to the lack of testing.

“There is already a lot of our frontline health care workers that are already stating that they will quit their jobs if it’s made mandatory,” she said.

“The fact is people are hesitant and are now being classified as anti-vaxxers and that is absolutely ridiculous.

“There are doctors and nurses and

midwives who are normally very provaccine, advising against taking the COVID vaccine.”

A spokesperson for the Minister for Health and Aged Care said that the campaign will continue throughout the pandemic to keep Australians informed and up to date.

“The government’s public education campaign will keep Australians fully informed and up to date about Australia’s COVID vaccination program,” they said.

“The Australian Government remains committed COVID vaccinations being voluntary and for any vaccine the Therapeutic Goods Administration deems safe and effective.

“The Department of Health is working in collaboration with media outlets and social media platforms to stop the spread of of misinformation.”

Kuranda has been targeted in a new COVID vaccine information campaign.

Product of Australia

Product of Australia

Product of Australia

Product of Australia

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The Express, Wednesday, February 24, 2021 PAGE 9

Our Council Our Community Trainee Opportunities

Projects & Programs Update

Tender

We have received funding for eight new 12-month trainee positions in customer service, people and culture, water and wastewater, local laws, community services and tourism, library, and horticulture (x2). Applications are open until 5pm Thursday 4 March 2021. Find out more at trc.qld.gov.au/careers.

Follow our project updates at trc.qld.gov.au.

Weather permitting, the following projects and programs will commence, continue and/or be completed in March:

Tender 2021-03 for improvements to the loading area at Atherton Transfer Station is open until 11am Wednesday 3 March 2021. Tender documents are available at tenderlink.com/trc.

•

Important Dates

The First Start program is proudly funded by the Queensland Government.

Age-Friendly Community Strategy We are developing an Age-Friendly Community Strategy and want to hear from you to understand what is important as you grow older.

Face-to-face sessions have been completed but you can still fill out our survey on shapingourtablelands.trc.qld.gov.au by Wednesday 31 March 2021.

Advisory Committees Our Youth Advisory Committee and Inclusion Advisory Committee are open for applications.

This is a great opportunity to advise us on operations across these areas.

Detailed information and an application form are available at trc.qld.gov.au. Applications close Monday 8 March 2021.

Yungaburra Triathlon The Yungaburra Triathlon is on Saturday 17 and Sunday 18 April 2021. Registrations are open and places are limited so don’t leave it until the last minute. Head to yungaburratriathlon.org to register to race, put your hand up to help out, and get all the details about road closures and race distances.

Slashing in Carrington, Wongabel, Atherton, Upper Barron, Yungaburra, East Barron, Lake Eacham, Danbulla, Lake Barrine, Tarzali, Jaggan, Malanda, Chilverton, Evelyn, Tumoulin, Innot Hot Springs, Mount Garnet and Wooroora.

•

Culvert cleaning in Tolga, Upper Barron and Walkamin.

•

Unsealed road damage assessments and repairs across the region (ex-TC Imogen).

•

New playgrounds at Walkamin and Marj Hamilton Park in Atherton.

•

Roadside sign, barrier and guide post replacement across the region.

•

Work on sections of Grove Street and Theresa Creek Road.

•

Pothole repairs and sign cleaning as required.

Free Mulch Head to the Atherton and Yungaburra Transfer Stations until Sunday 28 February 2021 for free mulch! Check trc.qld.gov.au for opening days and times. We’ll load the mulch for you but remember to bring something to cover it for the journey home.

Next Council Meeting 9am Thursday 25 February 2021 Coordination Centre, 15 Vernon Street, Atherton

Are you a Year 11 or 12 athlete competing at a state or national level?

Apply now for our $650 sport bursaries.

Apply at trc.qld.gov.au.

Applications close 31 March 2021.

See Bursary Guidelines before applying.

This FREE two day activation event will bring the entrepreneurship journey to life as you build a business, demonstrate your prototype and deliver the final pitch. You'll leave with an increase in knowledge, skills and confidence when it comes to startup and scalable business.

Rate Notices Rate notices will be delivered soon and payments must be processed and the funds cleared before the discount date for the discount to apply.

If you’re having trouble paying your rates we may be able to set up a payment plan. You can make advance payments at any time. Pensioner concessions are also available (conditions apply).

See trc.qld.gov.au for details.

By Kai Hagberg & Juanita Henry On now until 27 March

By Thursday Painters from TRAS 2 March to 24 April

Saturday 27 and Sunday 28 March

Register at trc.qld.gov.au/big-fish

MAKERSPACE Wednesdays at Atherton Library

TABLELANDSLIBRARIES.EVENTBRITE.COM.AU

By Tablelands Regional Art Society On now until 26 March

Customer service centres in Atherton, Herberton, Malanda and Ravenshoe PAGE 10 The Express, Wednesday, February 24, 2021

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

Walking for Cancer

Better Together volunteers Clark van Lunteren and John Holly are excited to be helping Tablelanders keep connected, with Freemasons Terry Edwards and Vince Mantio.

Barrine Lodge keeping community connected

Tablelands Freemasons are helping Tablelanders keep connected with a $5000 donation which will be made available to community members through phone cards which can be used to purchase mobiles and phone plans.

The donation, which was made to Better Together Community Support, will ensure that the funds are distributed to those most in need.

Terry Edwards, secretary of the Barrine Lodge, said the donation was the result of a successful application to Freemasons Queensland’s Hand, Heart and Pocket fund.

“In today’s connected world, you would be in real trouble if you didn’t have a phone to con-

nect you with medical services, essential services and urgent care,” Mr Edwards said.

“If you do not have a mobile, you also can’t reach out to friends and family, who are vital sources of support if you are in distress or in trouble.

“That’s why we believe that the phone cards would be helpful to community members.

“We say, ‘Stay safe, stay in touch with friends and family’.”

Community Development Coordinator Tracey Dickinson said she is excited to be able to help more people at Better Together.

“This very generous donation will mean that we will be able to help out even more Tablelanders,” she said.

RE-OPENING IN MAREEBA!

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“The phone cards could really help people on a practical level by ensuring that they are safe and connected.

“We know there is a real need out there in community, as we are still seeing the aftereffects of Covid.

“If you know someone who is doing it tough out there, please ask them to pop into Better Together. We can help you in the short-term with these cards and also introduce you to a whole range of services that could improve lives in the long-term.”

Better Together’s community hub is at 38 Mabel St, Atherton and is open Monday to Wednesday from 9am to 1pm.

A Kuranda woman who has raised over $18,000 dollars by walking thousand of kilometers has now set herself a new goal of raising $10,000 for Cancer Queensland before the end of 2022.

Since 2016 Jennifer Rooks has walked across Europe, the UK and Ireland. Her first walk came about after promising to walk 500 kilometers from Leitrim to Castletownbere in Ireland over 5 weeks and raise $5,000. By the time she had returned Jennifer had walked 548klms and raised $12,000.

Jennifer said she chose Cancer Queensland because it was an issue that was close to her heart.

“I’ve lost 2 brothers to cancer – Leukaemia and Melanoma – and also 2 brotherin- law’s, so this cause seemed the most appropriate to me,” she said.

Once Jennifer completes a walk, she publishes the dairy as another way of raising funds for Cancer Queensland.

Her next book ‘Pilgrims keep to the left’ will be officially launched at the Mareeba Heritage centre on Thursda, March 4 at 10.30am.

The book chronicles her walk in 2019 from Besançon in France, across Switzerland up the Swiss Alps and into Italy. “We had walked about 400 kilometers and we raised $3000 for Cancer Queensland,” she said.

“When I returned home, I wrote up the diary ‘Pilgrims

Jennifer Rooks between on one of her walks between Portugal and Spain is now hoping to raise $10,000 before the end of 2022.

keep to the left’.

“We walked into 3 different countries, several different languages and customs, experienced heat and snow and patted some beautiful large gentle St Bernard dogs.

“This is my fourth book and a percentage from all books sold go to Cancer Queensland.”

To coincide with the book launch Jennifer has also launched ‘A cup of coffee for cancer” which is happening on Saturday March 6 in Kuranda.

By buying a coffee at selected cafes in Kuranda businesses,

a percentage will go towards Cancer Queensland.

There will also be donation tins and raffles happening on the day.

Not one to sit still for too long Jennifer is now planning her next walk. Due to COVID restrictions Jennifer said her next walk will be the rail trial from Kilkivan to Ipswich, which is about 300 kilometers which she is planning on doing in April.

To donate go to https:// www.doitforcancer.com.au/ fundraisers/jenniferrooks/ walking-to-rome

CONSULTING ENGINEERS OUR NEW OFFICE HAS OPENED IN ROBERT STREET • CIVIL ENGINEERING • STRUCTURAL ENGINEERING • PROJECT ENGINEERING

For all enquiries call Greg O’Brien 0428 124 865

Ph: 4095 5142 | 6/154 Robert Street, Atherton | www.blackm.com

O PE N I N G H OU R S : Monday to Friday 8.30am t o 5.0 0pm

P: 07 4091 2922 | A: 1 Jack Street, Atherton QLD 4883 | W: www.fnoc.com.au www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

The Express, Wednesday, February 24, 2021 PAGE 11

Thursday painters group member Carole Healey getting ready for the upcoming exhibition.

Art is unlimited for Thursday Painters A group of talented artists from Atherton are getting ready to launch their latest exhibition at The Old Post Office Gallery in Atherton.

The Thursday painters are a group who meet every Thursday to paint at the Tablelands Regional Art Society (TRAS) rooms in Mabel Street in Atherton.

Their latest exhibition is called “Thursday Painters present Art Unlimited.”

On display will be mixed media paintings including wa-

ter colours, oils and pastels.

Painter Lenore Gilshenan said the Thursday Painters are a social group of mostly retired residents who love to get together to paint each week.

“We range from experienced to quite inexperienced artists, as many of us have only taken art up after retiring,” she said.

“We have had workshops in the past, most recently with Ms. Anneke Silver, a wonderful tutor and artist from Townsville.

“Anyone who is interested in painting is welcome to join

us on Thursday mornings at TRAS.” At the exhibition 10 artists will be on display and most paintings will be available for sale.

The exhibition opens on Tuesday, March 2 at 10am at The Old Post Office Gallery, located at 86 Herberton Road, Atherton and will run until April 24.

The Gallery is open Tuesday to Friday from 10am till 2pm and Saturdays from 10am to 1pm.

Party time!

K hub Mareeba now open until 7pm weekdays

PAGE 12 The Express, Wednesday, February 24, 2021

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

Saving grace for Mareeba church

use of natural light makes this of extreme high value.”

Mr Lavery said architecturally and socially the building is an important part of the history of Australia.

“The building is made from incredible handmade bricks and timber from the local area it is beautifully crafted.”

While some residents have expressed concerns about the future of the church Mareeba Shire Council (MSC) Mayor Angela Toppin released a statement that said, “Council has no plans or intention to resume the land for the roundabout and any future works would be conducted within the current road reserve.”

Mayor Toppin also said she would support any move to have the building protected.

“It is a beautiful building,” she said.

“It's certainly very iconic and we would welcome the right buyer, who would hopefully see it as an iconic property and preserve it.”

She said there were no plans for the council to buy the property.

“It's unfair to expect the ratepayer to purchase this site,” Cr Toppin said.

“We are a small council, but we are very keen to see that the right buyer purchases this iconic piece of architecture.”

Australian Institute of Architects regional co-chair Shaneen Fantin said smaller centres like Mareeba, Atherton and Malanda could learn lessons from Cairns, where several historic buildings had been demolished.

“Those places should aim to hold on to these pieces of architecture, because they are very valuable from a sociocultural perspective and valuable from a community perspective,” she said.

“If you take away your heritage, you take away your identity.”

The Uniting Church said in a statement that the decision to close the church and sell the land and adjoining buildings was prompted by a number of factors, including the expansion of a nearby roundabout, noise and changes in gatherings due to COVID-19.

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Locals are now trying to get the Uniting Church in Mareeba heritage listed. PHOTO: SUPPLIED.

Australian Government

GRANTS NOW AVAILABLE

Australian Government grants exclusively for the 14 LGAs hardest hit by the 2019 North Queensland Monsoon Trough.

North Queensland Economic Diversification Grants WHAT: Between $10,000 and $500,000 for eligible projects that diversify existing industries, start new ones and lead to more jobs.

WHEN: Expressions of interest close Friday 19 March 2021.

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WHEN: Applications close Friday 30 April 2021.

Restocking, Replanting and On-farm Infrastructure Grants WHAT: Up to $400,000 dollar-for-dollar for eligible primary producers.

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Find out more Contact the Queensland Rural and Industry Development Authority (QRIDA) on Freecall 1800 623 946 or visit www.qrida.qld.gov.au A partnership of the National Drought & North Queensland Flood Response & Recovery Agency and QRIDA on behalf of the Australian and Queensland Governments

1750OP_1535

The Mareeba Uniting Church on the corner Rankin and Walsh Streets in Mareeba held its final service on Sunday, January 31. Now there are moves to try and save the church which has been earmarked for sale by the Queensland Uniting Church Property Trust along with a hall and home that are also on the block.

The Church was built in 1960 by renowned Cairns architect Eddie Oribin whose own home, studio and several of his other works have now been heritage listed including the Mareeba Shire Hall (now PCYC), St Paul’s Anglican Memorial Church in Proserpine, St Andrew’s Presbyterian Memorial Church in Innisfail and the Oribin studio and residence in Cairns.

Mr Oribin's significant contribution to Queensland architecture was recognised by the Queensland Chapter of the Royal Australian Institute of Architects in 2000, when the new "Building of the Year" award for the Far North Region was named in his honour.

Queensland President of the Australian Institute of Architects Dr Michael Lavery said a submission had been made in the past few days to have the building listed on the Queensland Heritage Register to protect it from future development.

“Oribin was an incredibly innovate architect, his innovation stretched across structure and details in terms of dealing with the local climate,” he said.

“His buildings were beautifully detailed and always well built, Eddie Oribin brought some of the best work out to the regional areas.”

Mr Lavery said there were several reasons why the church was so unique.

“It’s an outstanding example of his (Oribin’s) work, within it is a series of characteristics that were specifically exclusive to his work,” he said.

“It’s also important in demonstrating the characteristics of post-World War 2 church architecture, in that time frame church architecture was changing.

“It has fantastic craftsmanship, he used quite complex geometry in this building and his

The Express, Wednesday, February 24, 2021 PAGE 13

Help out our native frogs

Dimbulah Lions gets a helping hand The Dimbulah Lions Club has received a $2,500 cash boost thanks to Corteva and CRT. CRT staff members nominated the local not-for-profit Dimbulah Lions Club as part of a community support campaign that gave away 30 grants each valued at $2,500.

CRT Store manager Paul Keevers said, “The Dimbulah Lions Club are a very deserving recipient, and we are thrilled that they won and that we could help them in this way.”

Pictured: Dimbulah Lions Club President Brendan Goldsworthy, CRT Mareeba Store manager Paul Keevers and Lion Eddie Toffanello with the $2,500 cash cheque for the club.

Keirah and Sienna Peckham (front) and Jelena Maksuti and Zion Pitt (back) from Mareeba District Girl Guides are looking for help.

Our local native frogs and toads are set to get some five-star accommodation after a local girl guides group took it upon themselves to help save their declining population.

The Mareeba District Girl Guides have taken matters into their own hands as they set about sourcing recycled materials to make motels for the native frog and toad population.

Due to the Cane Toads humongous appetite and explosive spreading they often push their native competitors out of shelters and out of food.

Mareeba Distract Girl Guides Senior Girls Leader Tammy Pedersen decided to build these motels to help out the girls and native animals.

“We were looking at something that the girls can do for their environmental badges, looking at things that we can do with our local native species,” she said.

“One of these is the frog pop-

Donation helps Yungaburra school kids

ulation which is greatly depleted and one of the main reasons for this is Cane Toads and lack of habitat.

“We will go and do some Cane Toad eradication as well and they will be humanely disposed of.”

After conducting research, the group found that you can build frog motels from recycled materials to provide shelter for native frogs and toads.

The young girls at the Mareeba District Girl Guides are looking for your help to save our declining native frog and toad population.

They are searching for any recycled materials to be donated like PVC pipes, pot plants, plastic, bamboo or terracotta.

If you have some of these materials laying around at home and want to do your part to help our native fauna drop it into the Girl Guides on 14 Egan Street, Mareeba on a Tuesday from 5.30pm to 7pm.

Karina Gibson, Azlin Gibson, Will Gibson, Bella Edwards, Christian Edwards, Lylia Edwards accept the cheque on behalf of Yungaburra State School P&C, presented to them by Matt Bowles (People and Partnerships Manager) and Tim Oliver (Store Manager) from the Fresh Street IGA.

Yungaburra State School P&C Committee were recently the grateful recipients of funds from the Fresh Street IGA Community Chest.

Matt Bowles, Fresh St. Market IGA People and Partnerships Manager said, “Our donation to the Yungaburra P&C was one of over 10 last year with over $6,000 given back to Tablelands Community Groups through Community Chest,” he said.

“We always encourage community groups to approach us and we look forward to seeing IGA's Community Chest help more community groups during 2021.”

The funds will be used to purchase iPad charging docs, a

green screen and Positive Education picture books and stories for the Yungaburra State School library.

P&C President Trudy Bakker expressed her gratitude.

“The donation from IGA is much appreciated,” she said “In particular for the charging stations which have been a wish list item for our STEM teachers.

“They will allow multiple iPads to be charged and updated simultaneously, ensuring they are ready for use for the next round of students and freeing up teachers for more important tasks.

“We thank IGA for their support of our school and community in general.”

Dance, love and support for disadvantaged kids Tableland locals boogied on the dance floor with their

Colleen Clifton, Anne Hoyal, Michael Brzozowski, Digby Hoyal, Bronwyn Snowden, Leigh Woltmann and Glenda Smith.

Volunteers Sought - Interested persons please visit:

crimestoppersqld.com.au/volunteer

loves last weekend for the Valentine’s Day Supper Dance at Yungaburra all for a good cause.

Anne and Digby Hoyal, the founders of Nepali Family Inc. teamed up with Atherton Rotary to help disabled youth in the Himalayan regions.

This is the second time they have hosted a supper ball and its success benefits the future of

disabled children they support.

“We usually help out children with disabilities and the Rotary club puts them through schooling and other life enriching programs,” Mr Hoyal said.

“The country lacks the public funding needed to help these children achieve the best they can, “We have a few studying

law and those who struggle a bit more, we give them the education they need.”

People from as far as Tully and Cairns attended the dance with live music performed by ‘Threatened Species’ and catering from Nick’s Restaurant in Yungaburra. $5000 was raised for children in Himalayan countries.

96.7fm Tablelands Meet Samantha Martin a.k.a. Black Star Office Manager a.k.a.The Bush Tukka Woman

96.7 fm Atherton Tablelands 94.1 fm Amrun 107.7 fm Aurukun 91.9 fm Bamaga 102.7 fm Coen 96.9 fm Cooktown 105.3 fm Doomadgee 91.9 fm Injinoo 107.7 fm Kowanyama 100.5 fm Lakeland 107.7 fm Lockhart River

The radio network for remote and rural Queensland

PAGE 14 The Express, Wednesday, February 24, 2021

Mapoon 101.3 fm Mornington Island 107.7 fm Napranum/Weipa 94.5 fm New Mapoon 91.9 fm Normanton 98.5 fm Pormpuraaw 106.1 fm Seisia 91.9 fm Umagico 91.9 fm Woorabinda 99.7 fm Wujal Wujal 107.7 fm Yarrabah 92.9 fm

YOUR MAGIC MUSIC MIX @blackstarradioqld Stream Live - www.qram.com.au iPhone App - Black Star Android App - Black Star Network

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ABS calls for census collectors

A wave of support is building for Atherton's Tableland Organic and Biodynamic Farmers Co-operative store on Herberton Road. Long-term volunteer Kathleen Bird, original, day 1 customer Peter Erker, store manager Gwen Collins and co-worker Sylvia Looser are excited about the opportunities the new kitchen will bring to Atherton.

Adecco Recruitment has partnered with the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) to recruit 38,000 temporary employees in areas across the country to help with the upcoming 2021 census.

According to the ABS website. “The Census provides valuable insights into the make-up of Australian society and is often the only source of data on small population groups and small geographic areas, which is why it is vital that we achieve the highest level of engagement and participation possible within the local area,” “These employees will play an important role in

helping people to lodge their Census forms for the Australian National Census 2021.”

The roles are short-term and available in all major cities and regional areas nationwide. The working hours are variable and will include weekdays, weekends and evenings. Employment contracts are from 6 May 2021 until 3 October 2021.

For more information please visit: https://censusjobs.adecco.com.au/applications

New value ATTENTION LOYAL adding READERS!! for Co-op members

BY SALLY TURLEY

Tableland organic and biodynamic farmers will soon have the opportunity to value add to their produce and widen the product range they can offer their customers.

Manager of their Atherton Co-operative store, Gwen Collins and her team are in the process of setting up an organic and biodynamic accredited kitchen for use

by Co-op members. They have signed the lease on the building next door, are applying for solar grants and are planning the fit out of the shop.

Ms Collins said there had been a lot of interest in the project so far, including an enquiry from a Ravenshoe herb farmer and a juice maker from Yungaburra.

“There are a lot of rules and regulations involved in getting organic accreditation for a commercial kitchen. It would be quite a difficult and expensive process for people to do in their homes,” she said.

Producers would be able to hire the Co-op kitchen for a modest fee, with payment going towards covering costs such as insurance, council fees and set up and maintenance of the facility.

Once up and running, the facility would be ideal for projects such as cooking marmalades, processing dried and indigenous mushroom and producing garlic paste and tumeric powder, among other things.

Anything produced through the kitchen would be labelled with the Co-operative brand verifying the item's organic and biodynamic status.

If a suitable educator/trainer could be found, it could also be used as a training kitchen for the long term unemployed, or other special interest groups within the community.

The shop started as a producers cooperative almost 11 years ago when Gwen and her partner Adam Collins, organic and biodynamic growers themselves, wanted to reduce the 'food miles'

associated with their produce.

The enthusiastic response received soon made organisers realise that consumers also wanted involvement in the enterprise at a deeper level, and there are now 140 producers and consumers directly invested as stakeholders.

The not for profit entity which aims to deliver “local food for local people,” has accumulated 25 local suppliers, 22 dedicated volunteers and a loyal and growing customer base, along the way.

Known fondly by locals as the “Tableland Oasis,” most customers who come to the shop and experience the freshness and flavour of the fruit and vegetables and the level of customer service on offer, say they won't be going back to the Supermarket.

There is a warmth and camaraderie in the store that flows from people doing what they love and the store has evolved into more than just a point of purchase. It has become a social hub for consumers who care deeply about the quality of the food they eat.

“While food quality has never been an issue, there have been some difficulties with quantity over the years. There are a few gaps in our product range and we need consistency of supply,” Ms Collins said.

“We don't have any celery growers in the far north and we often have a feast or famine situation with our cucumbers, tomatoes and oranges for example.

There are usually ample supplies while local produce is in season, but we have to rely on our 2 southern wholesale suppliers to fill the gaps when local supply dwindles.

“Smaller scale producers who just want a seasonal outlet for an abundance of garden produce, can become ‘approved suppliers,’ which is less onerous than full accreditation.

“We welcome new suppliers and will be here to help them through the processes involved,” Ms Collins said.

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Due to Facebook’s recent shut down of Australian media, The Express Newspaper would like to inform our 17,000+ Facebook followers that we are still here producing quality local news. The news is still and always will be FREE OF CHARGE and can be viewed directly through our website:

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au We encourage our friends to help us share this post and get the message out that local news is here to stay and although you aren’t seeing our news posts on your Facebook feed right now, we are still working behind the scenes and uploading to our website!

If you have a story you think would be of interest to our readers or want to get in contact: Email: admin@theexpressnewspaper.com.au Ph: 4092 3464 Drop in: 186 Byrnes Street, Mareeba Website: www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

The Express, Wednesday, February 24, 2021 PAGE 15

WE WILL BE CLOSED FROM THE 15TH OF FEBRUARY TO THE 17TH OF MARCH.

YUNGABURRA

We will see you upon our return, refreshed and ready to share more celebrations with you!

ENTERTAINMENT ACROSS THE REGION

Five impressive movies on screen There is a mammoth weekend of fantastic choices for all to enjoy on the Tablelands only indoor big screen at the Majestic Theatre in Malanda.

First up is the new much

CARRINGTON w e N ok!

Lo

HOTEL

s

All Star

POKEaR y Mond !

Nights

Live Band DR. ELEPHANT

KIDS EAT FOR FREE ON MONDAYS BISTRO DINING T-BONE TUESDAYS $25

Return to the Carrington on Friday Night February 26 from 8pm

300 gram T-Bone with chips, salad & your choice of sauce

SPORTS BAR POKIES TAB & KENO KIDS PLAYGROUND

anticipated Australian action thriller HIGH GROUND. In a bid to save the last of his family, Gutjuk, a young Aboriginal man, teams up with exsoldier Travis to track down Baywara, the most dangerous warrior in the Territory, his uncle.

THE MARKSMAN shows one last time on Saturday, starring one of this world's leading action thriller stars, Liam Neeson, in the title role.

The comedy romance LOVE, WEDDINGS AND OTHER DISASTERS starring Diane Keeton and Jeremy Irons in an easy going comedy of disasters - and well worth watching for some light easygoing entertainment. We can really recommend this movie. Most people who have seen it so far have found it most enjoyable.

Back by popular demand are the two Australian movies PENGUIN BLOOM, with Naomi Watts, and the dramatic and intensely popular Aussie suspense drama THE DRY, which screens again on Friday afternoon. This is your last opportunity to see these two excellent films.

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 exsoldier Travis to track down Baywara - the most dangerous warrior in the Territory, who is also his uncle.

As Travis and Gutjuk journey through the outback they begin to earn each other's trust, but when the truths of Travis' past actions are suddenly revealed, it is he who becomes the hunted.

THE MARKSMAN: A rancher on the Arizona border becomes the unlikely defender of a young Mexican boy des-

perately fleeing the cartel assassins who've pursued him into the U.S. LOVE, WEDDINGS & OTHER DISASTERS: It is a multi-story romantic comedy about the people who work on weddings to create the perfect day for a loving couple - while their own relationships are outlandish, odd, crazy and far from perfect.

PENGUIN BLOOM Based on the best-selling book of the same name, the film tells the story of Sam Bloom (Academy Award® nominated Naomi Watts) a young mother whose world is turned upside down after a shocking, near-fatal accident leaves her paralyzed. Sam's husband, (Andrew Lincoln), her three young boys and her mother (Academy Award® nominated Jacki Weaver), are struggling to adjust to their new situation when an unlikely ally enters their world in the form of an injured baby magpie they name Penguin. The bird's arrival is a welcome distraction for the Bloom family, eventually making a profound difference on Sam's life, teaching her how to live again.

THE DRY: Federal Agent Aaron Falk returns to his home town after an absence of over twenty years to attend the funeral of his childhood friend, Luke, who allegedly killed his wife and child before taking his own life - a victim of the madness that has ravaged this community after more than a decade of drought. When Falk reluctantly agrees to stay and investigate the crime, he opens up an old wound - the death of 17- year-old Ellie Deacon.

Falk begins to suspect these two crimes, separated by decades, are connected.

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ENTERTAINMENT Becci booked to return Chillagoe born country music artist Becci Nethery will be returning home at the beginning of March for two performances in Mareeba and Chillagoe.

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Chillagoe born and bred the 24-year-old singer-songwriter currently lives in the Northern Beaches in Sydney where she is recording her new upcoming single and album.

The award-winning artist has promised local fans that they will get a sneak peak of her soon to be released songs during her performances.

Due to COVID Becci has been unable to book her annual flight home but now with the borders open, she has her fingers crossed that her upcoming flight will get her

home.

“I try to come up every year, but it was looking like I wasn’t going to be able to make it, but the borders are open now, so fingers crossed,” she said.

“I have been wanting to get back for a while, I’ve had tickets booked a few times and have had to cancel them.

“I haven’t played any gigs for a year, I haven’t seen my family for a year, I’m so excited to be coming up.”

After hunkering down in the Vault recording studio, Becci is excited to be bringing her new material to old fans.

“I’ve been working on these songs for a while and I’m really excited to start to share them,” she said.

“Hopefully, I will have a new single out in the next

couple of months.

“I’m just so excited to be back at it and being back home.”

As she was born into a musical family Becci is excited to spend some time with her family and possibly have a jam session before she returns to the beaches.

Becci will be lighting up the Mareeba Leagues Club on March 12 from 7pm to 10.30pm and the Post Office Hotel in hometown Chillagoe on March 13 from 4pm to 7pm.

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Phone: 4095 2022 www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

The Express, Wednesday, February 24, 2021 PAGE 17

ON LAND the

Growers join forces with nature to combat Fall armyworm by sally turley Tableland agronomists have turned to biological control agents in a bid to save the local maize industry from destruction, after it has become clear that chemicals were failing to have the desired impact on the Fall armyworm invasion.

Olivia Pezellato and Amanda McCulloch from Atherton's Tableland Agricultural Services, released 3.6 million Trichogramma pretiosum (parasitic wasps) into a trial area of corn crop near Kairi last Friday and should know within the next few days if it will be a success.

The tiny wasps which are very efficient destroyers of the eggs of more than 200 species of harmful moths and butterflies, were released into the paddock at the rate of 10,000 wasps/hectare.

They arrived as pupae from the Queensland Insectary, Bowen on Thursday and were hatching out of their eggs by Friday morning.

Once dusted across the crop, they emerge as adult wasps and mate soon after. The female then begins laying up to 3,500 eggs into the armyworm moth eggs and upon hatching, her larvae devour the developing caterpil-

lars inside the moth eggs.

Female wasps will parasatise up to 50 moth eggs in her 1014 day life cycle, turning their eggs black as the young wasps develop inside. Once the young wasps emerge, they are ready to mate and continue the cycle of predation.

To ensure establishment of the wasp colony, Ms Pezellato said they would be doing a second release of Trichogamma on Monday. The second release, 7 days on, was imperative to fill the gap in the cycle between the death of the original wasps and the hatching of their offspring.

Unlike the Fall armyworm, the adult wasps feed on nectar from flowers rather than crop leaves, so are unaffected by the systemic chemicals used to control the armyworm. The Trichogramma are one of a group of 'beneficials' including parasitic flies, the shield bug, spiders and lady beetles, that are all working to help farmers win this war.

Meanwhile, Senior Entomologist with the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries (DAF), Mareeba, Ian Newton, is working on another possible longterm solution for maize growers.

He has been culturing and

testing a naturally occurring white fungus (Nomuraea Rileyi) that could eventually be used as a biopesticide to control the Fall armyworm outbreak. Affected larvae appear crystallised, but the white coating is actually a pathogenic fungus that eats the worm from the inside out.

Basically, the fungus covers the whole Fall armyworm and eats it, impacting their whole system in a similar way to one of the industry's key insecticides, Altacor.

“Farmers and the scientific community have been shocked at how quickly the Fall armyworm spreads,” Mr Newton said.

“In humid conditions, a formerly clean crop can change overnight, with a new flight of armyworm moths performing a new egg lay in clusters of over 1000 eggs at a time.

“Farmers are looking for solutions and this fungus will kill the Fall armyworm. It is difficult to culture, but it is possible. We are culturing it in the lab now in an artificial environment on field collected larvae.

“The fungus can be cultured in whatever numbers we need, but we have to prove how effective it is and it has to be quanti-

Agronomist Olivia Pezzalato from Tableland Agricultural Services, pictured with her father and third generation farmer, Pompey Pezzalato, has implemented a biological control test site for parasitic wasps to combat Fall armyworm in the family's corn crop. INSET: Maize crops across the Tablelands are still under attack from the voracious Fall armyworm, which can move in to a paddock overnight and leave it devestated within a few days, placing the future of the industry in doubt.

fied. The manufacturer needs to do their own tests and register the final product. We are doing all we can to speed up the process, but the fungus won't be ready for purchase commercially in time for the next plant.”

Mr Newton said some of the newer chemicals would work under certain circumstances but were more expensive.

“The Fall armyworm is resistant to a lot of the older synthetic pyrethroids, but they will kill all the beneficials, making the situation worse than if the farmer had done nothing,” he said.

Grahame West of Seaweed Enterprises Australia believes their product, Seaperia Soluble

Seaweed Spray may offer a more immediate solution for maize farmers under attack from Fall armyworm.

“Once sprayed on the leaf, Seaperia, rich in the growth hormone Cytokinins, instantly lifts chlorophyll levels which increases the plant's ability to produce sugar. Sugar not only boosts plant growth, but the higher sugar content in the leaves helps crops resist many pests and diseases,” he said.

“Leaf eating insects are repelled by a Brix reading (measure of dissolved sugar) of above 12 and cannot digest plant tissue above 16 Brix, effectively moving any pests off the maize while

producing a more robust, heavier yielding crop for growers.”

As the battle between maize growers and the voracious Fall armyworm continues to rage across the Tablelands, and in fact across the entire state, it is becoming less likely locals will see the broad paddocks of green corn that have been part of the landscape for 100 years, next season.

At a debilitating cost of $50/ ha for chemical plus spraying costs, and around $70 - $80/ha for the biological wasp alternative, even farmers whose crops survive this season are concerned that it will not be viable to replant corn next year.

Local bull breeders spend up in the Towers by sally turley

Two far northern bull breeders made there presence felt at the record breaking Big Country Brahman Sale in Charters Towers last week.

Between them, Darren and Melissa Pedracini of Lornevale Station, Georgetown and Brian and Carla Harriman from the East Palmerston bought 1 bull and 5 heifers for a total spend of $102,000 in a sale that offered exceptional quality from start to finish.

The Pedracinis paid $32,000 to secure Lot 161, NCC Dienka 5039, making her the top price heifer of the biggest sale in Charters Tower's history. They also bought 2 Carinya Brahman heifers - Carinya M Grande for $11,000 and Carinya M Red Jewel for $9,000.

Mr Pedracini, who with his wife and family, runs 7,500 head of commercial and stud cattle on their 40,469ha property, said he had been looking around for a couple of better red heifers to breed a few bulls for themselves.

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PAGE 18 The Express, Wednesday, February 24, 2021

He and his son Hayden went to Charters Towers specifically to buy Lot 161, whose mother, Dienka 238 produced over $1 million worth of progeny during her breeding life.

“We were chasing those bloodlines and this 13 month old heifer, who displayed a lot of muscle and good bone, showcased them perfectly,” he said.

“The Carinya heifers were both PTIC (pregnancy tested in calf) and presented extremely well with good temperament and very feminine characteristics.

It was one of the best sales we have ever seen offering a consistent line of good quality bulls and heifers.”

Mr Pedracini, who has been breeding polled cattle since he and his father started building their stud herd 30 years ago, said they would take Dienka to their Tully block and flush her once, before eventually getting her in calf to a PP (Poll Poll) bull, that would reliably throw polled calves.

Selling polled bulls was the point of difference that Mr Pedracini believed had seen demand increasing year on year for Lornevale bulls.

“Our commercial herd is 75% polled now and the reduced stress on weaners and workers makes a big difference,” he said.

Meanwhile, Palmvale O'Malley 3908, the $26,000 Poll/Scurr bull bought by the Harriman family to join the

Brian Harriman of Reedybrook B Brahman Stud, East Palmerston, was delighted with his 3 purchases at the Big Country Brahman Sale in Charters Towers last week. He paid $14,000 for NCC Dancing Queen 5475, whose bloodlines he had been chasing for years, $26,000 for 27 month old Palmvale O'Malley 3908 and $11,000 for 13 month old IVF heifer, NCC Dienka 5323.

Reedybrook B stud on the East Palmerston has already been earning his keep.

“We milked him directly after the sale and again the next morning,” Brian Harriman said.

“During the first session, we harvested 111 straws and recorded a score of 98% Normal sperm in his semen morphology test.”

“The next morning we collected another 71 straws and he tested 86% Normal. A good result considering >70% Normal sperm is considered the Normal threshold for bulls going into a single sire herd.”

But for Mr Harriman, purchasing the Nobbs Cattle Company heifer NCC Dancing Queen 5470, was the real highlight of the sale. He was the losing bid-

Inspired by their children's interest in the family's stud breeding operation, Darren (pictured) and his wife Melissa Pedracini paid top price of $32,000 at the Big Country Brahman Sale for outstanding IVF heifer, NCC Dienka 5039 in Charters Towers last week.

der on her mother at the Wilarandy Dispersal sale, when the 15 year old breeder sold for around $15,000 over a decade ago.

“She was the best cow I have ever seen and I can see many of her qualities, such as type, scale, good confirmation and good udder structure in this IVF heifer.

Once I get some recipient heifers lined up, I will flush her and see what she can do for the stud.”

After 102 years of living at Reedybrook Station on the Burdekin River north of Greenvale, the Harriman family sold the property in June 2019 and Brian, Carla and daughter Willow moved to the Tableland area, bringing a selection of bulls and 115 registered stud cows with them.

Participating in last year's inaugural Tablelands Better Beef Open Day was a good opportunity for them to share the results of decades of stud breeding with local cattle producers.

He was amazed when 215 people signed in to their Middlebrook Road property, Millaa Millaa throughout the day and said they picked up quite a few sales out of the event.

He believed the combination of recent dressed weight averages of 360kg for bullocks and 252kg for their two year old commercial heifers, and the depth of genetics underpinning their stud herd enabled them to offer purchasers sires that would breed good beef.

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

ON ROAD the

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Perhaps the most useful feature of ALLiON lithium batteries is its Bluetooth monitoring capability (on selected models). By downloading the ALLiON app via the App Store (Apple) or Google Play (Android), battery owners can monitor the State of Charge (SoC) of their battery with the voltage, charging/discharging current and temperature. This is particularly useful for caravan, camper, RV, motorhome and 4x4 vehicle owners who spend hours on the road.

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4x4 vehicles. The ALLiON range of lithium batteries provide adventure enthusiasts with the perfect balance of price and reliable power.

ALLiON batteries are powered by Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO) technology which delivers the superior thermal and chemical stability which ALLiON is well-regarded for. The battery range is manufactured with an integrated Battery Management System (BMS) which manages the battery status and protects the battery if the voltage, current or temperature move outside the designed operating parameters. ALLiON batteries are 60% lighter than the equivalent AGM lead acid

across Australia and New Zealand. Visit rjbatt.com.au for more info on ALLiON lithium batteries or call 1300 769 282 to get in touch with your local R&J Batteries branch.

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The rated cycle of life of ALLiON lithium batteries is significantly greater than lead acid batteries - they deliver between 2,000 and 4,000 cycles depending on the Depth of Discharge (DoD). This means even with deep discharging, an ALLiON battery will deliver 2,000 cycles whereas a lead acid battery will deliver around 300 cycles. This means less battery replacements, reducing the overall cost of ownership.

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The Express, Wednesday, February 24, 2021 PAGE 19

ON ROAD the

Subaru takes Outback higher

Dan Wood and Raine Cafarella from the All Wheel Drive Centre with the new Subaru Outback.

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• Mechanical Services • 4x4 Parts and Accessories • Roadworthy on Cars and Small Trailers • COI on Trucks and Large Trailers • Pre-registration Measurements on Truck or Trailer • DP Chips and Pedal Boxes • Light Bars • Suspensions • Winches • Tyres • Bull Bars • Side Rails • Airbag Suspensions • Fridges • Poly Water and Fuel Tanks • Roof Top Tents & Awnings • Beaudesert Exhausts AND MUCH MORE…!

Subaru has significantly elevated the specifications list across its entire new generation Outback range; the new Outback is now on display at the All Wheel Drive Centre in Atherton.

The New Outback has an impressive array of features including: New Direct Injection 2.5 litre Boxer engine, and braked towing capacity of 2,000 kg.

A refined Lineartronic® Continuously Variable Transmission, dual function X-Mode for Peace-of-mind on unsealed surfaces is enhanced by offering setand-forget throttle control in mud, snow and steep unsealed surfaces.

A High Definition 11.6” head unit infotainment system which centralises and simplifies many controls,

while vertical orientation allows intuitive operation like a smartphone or tablet.

The latest generation EyeSight® Driver Assist system has multiple new features including: Lane Centring Function, Autonomous Emergency Steering, Emergency Lane Keep Assist and Speed Sign Recognition with Intelligent Speed Limiter, Lane Departure Warning with steering wheel vibration.

This also includes Lane Departure Prevention and Pre-Collision Braking System.

Other notable features include, Vision Assist Passenger seat cushion airbag and Driver Monitoring System This is also the first Subaru specifically designed to withstand collision impacts

under new Mobile Progressive Deformable Barrier.

Blair Read, Subaru Australia General Manager, said “Based on customer feedback, we’ve made a conscious decision to take Outback considerably up market, confirming its status as the flagship in the Subaru range,” he said.

“The aggressive rugged design, along with the suite of luxury features, technology, infotainment and safety inherent in every Outback will only add to its rock-solid reputation for value and whole-of-life costs.”

You can test drive the new Subaru Outback at the All Wheel Drive Centre in Atherton at Vernon Street or phone 4030 5400.

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P: 4092 1020 WE’RE LOCATED BEHIND 2 WHEELS & WEAR PAGE 20 The Express, Wednesday, February 24, 2021

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

ON ROAD the

Atherton 4x4 releases TGB Atv's and soon to be the home of Ironman 4x4 on the Tablelands

TGB ATV, Powerful, Reliable and Tough as Nails! These inherent traits are in the DNA of every TGB ATV. The fullsize Blade 520 4x4 may be the entry price mode,l but there is nothing basic about this beast.

With fully independent suspension, the ride and comfort of the more expensive brands and a marketleading power and performance are standard features to the new TGB range.

Argo Australia is serious about safety on all their ATV’s. Here is a quick guide to assist riders to improve

their own safety outcomes: • Extensive Independent studies have proven the installation of an approved OPD (Occupant Protection Device) can reduce the chance of fatality by up to 30%.

• In compliance with the Australian Regulations, TGB ATV’s (in Australia) will be sold with a compliant OPD as standard equipment as of October 2021; until then all TGB dealers will offer a compliant OPD as an option.

• TGB also recommend these extra steps to improve ATV riders safety

- Choose a vehicle which is fit for purpose – for the task at hand and the rider - Wear a helmet – the most effective safety device - Rider training – will allow you to fully understand both the ATV’s features and its limitations - Don’t allow passengers on single seat ATVs, and no kids under 16 on adult size ATVs - Strictly follow the manufacturer’s guidance and warnings.

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The Express, Wednesday, February 24, 2021 PAGE 21

History update

OPINION

Historical Society of Mareeba

With Phil Brandel @Philbrandel1

Battle of the likes Last week’s banning of news sites from Facebook was not just a lesson in which billionaire has the biggest cahoonas, it was also a lesson in capitalism.

Initially Rupert Murdoch was getting upset that Facebook was making money selling advertising on a platform that uses his news as their content.

Mr Murdoch complained to the Australian Government, and as with most of our governments what Rupert wants Rupert gets. Mark Zuckerberg on the other hand has no time for Australia, our government or Mr Murdoch.

Facebook has 2.74 billion subscribers. In Australia there are 13 million Australians subscribed to Facebook with only 9 million Aussies using it daily. We are just a small drop in the Facebook ecosystem and last week, we became that annoying mosquito that Mr Zuckerberg slapped.

The outrage was instant, with people claiming their rights had been trodden on, censorship and free speech was under attack as well as some un-original comparisons to the Nazis.

What everybody forgets is that Facebook is a private company, nowhere in our constitution or laws does it mention that we have a right to to social media.

The big news companies are complaining that they should get a share of Facebooks revenue if they are supplying the content. The only problem with that theory is that the big news companies block their content with paywalls and charge for it. (unlike The Express, which is free, and always has been.)

Maybe if they gave

their news away for free they would have an argument?

In capitalism nobody has to accept your business if it doesn’t make sense financially and you have the power to shop wherever you like.

The big news companies don’t HAVE to use Facebook, there was a time before Facebook existed and we still had access to the news. The news companies also have a plethora of other social media platforms to choose from.

Where Facebook went wrong was that they inadvertently blocked essential services and innocent bystanders like the BOM, Queensland Health and the Domestic Violence Prevention Centre, most of which were back up in the next 24 hours.

The US Government has also stepped into pressure Australia to stand down.

A document with the letterhead of the Executive Office of the President said: “The US Government is concerned that an attempt, through legislation, to regulate the competitive positions of specific players … to the clear detriment of two US firms may result in harmful outcomes.”

When America says you’re doing capitalism wrong you need to listen.

Big multinational news corporations now have a decision to make, use Facebook or not, the choice is theirs. As we are such a small contributor to Zuckeberg’s bottom line, he has shown that he is willing to lose the battle to win the war.

HISTORICAL Society of Mareeba will be concentrating on putting together a wonderful display of photographs and information pertaining to the Mt Mulligan disaster.

The grim disaster happened on 21st September 1921 and this year will be the 100th anniversary of that day.

It still remains the worst mining disaster in Queensland, with 75 men dying.

The Society will not be attending the commemoration that will be held on-site at Mt Mulligan as we do not have the correct transport to move our many boards, nor proper protection of our many photographs.

So it was decided to hold this important display at our Rooms beginning at the start of September, 2021 in Centenary Park, Mareeba through

to the close of the month and beyond.

The Society will feature information of each of the miners concerned as well as information on Mt Mulligan and the cemetery there.

Exactly what the Mines Department is contributing to this event has not been disclosed, but as soon as it is given out, I’ll inform everybody interested. If anyone has information and/or photos of Mt Mulligan and are happy to share, contact the Society; sec@mbahistsoc. org.au Other than this important event in September, the Society is continuing to work on our many databases; photo, library, recently found early Council records, rodeo, and some mining records.

Work is slow as many of

our members have decided not to return to work until C-19 has truly been conquered. All this work is about conserving the history of the Mareeba Shire so future generations will be able to see, research and enjoy what their fore-bears achieved.

Our genealogical library is starting fill up, causing a change in storage. It’s finding the space that is the problem, need elastic walls. One day all our paper files will be digitalised and how much easier will make research!

The Society is starting to plan for that to happen.

We are a not –for-profit, self funded organisation.

Our constitution has been in place since we began, we have charity status and can access funding when it is suitable for our needs.

We carry the correct insurances and have regular meetings to determine where and what the Society is going to do next.

The membership fees are not expensive, $22.00 each member per year. Our Policies and Procedures are up to date. Any and everything Government requires us to do, is done. Too much red tape at times, but it’s worth it/ Find us in Centenary Park, 345 Byrnes Street Mareeba.

4092 3599.

Open Tuesday and Wednesday 8am till 3.30pm or by appointment. sec@ mbahistsoc.org.au.

We’re a friendly lot, come and find out for yourself.

Helen Kindt (Hon Sec) Historical Society of Mareeba

photo of the Week This weeks winner is

Janine Conolly The theme was ‘Red’.

Title: Lady in Red with Pigeons.

Location: Paris “This photo was taken with an iPhone and then edited for black and white contrast with the bright red coat.”

join in and enter your photos on Facebook – Visit the Tablelands and Surrounds Photography Group page

SUPPORT OUR LOCAL BUSINESSES Visit www.theexpressdirectory.com.au and join us in Keeping Business Local.

To get more out of your Local Advertising contact our team on 4092 3464.

PAGE 22 The Express, Wednesday, February 24, 2021

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Construction of the latest stage at Amaroo is well underway.

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The anticipation completion date is June 2021.

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2

3

• Upstairs: 3 built-in bedrooms & renovated bathroom Open plan kitchen, living, dining, wood fireplace Two timber decks, stunning water views • Downstairs: Media room/4th bedroom, projector & surround sound Workshop, storage area, laundry & second bathroom

REDUCED TO $659,000 - Call Kaydee

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, February 24, 2021 PAGE 23

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Opportunity of a lifetime

Don't miss your chance to secure a slice of rural paradise just a couple of minutes’ drive from the Atherton CBD. Boasting its own private lake and arguably one of the best views on the Atherton Tablelands, Nyleta Lodge includes a well equipped kitchen with Essa Stone bench tops, pendulum lighting, pantry, breakfast bar, pot draws,

gas oven and cooktop and a server window to the expansive patio.

The open plan living area is kept warm on chilly Tableland nights with a quality wood heater.

There is a floor to ceiling linen cupboard in the hall providing plenty of storage space.

The bedrooms all have built in wardrobes whilst the

Video: River Grande.

https://youtu.be/meithxlSBEI

master features a beautiful ensuite and views across the lake to the Herberton Range.

Built by renowned local builder Shane Dodds in 2019, this unique home has been kept like new in its time as a successful bed and breakfast.

Rates are approximately $2000.00 / half year.

Features: • Spectacular views from

many vantage points around the property.

• Less than two years old • Full length patio • Easy care vinyl l flooring • Stone benches • Dishwasher • Master bedroom with built in robe and ensuite • Three minor bedrooms with built in robes.

• Linen cupboard

• Private lake • Covered parking.

A copy of the recently completed building inspection is available upon request.

Address: Price: Agent:

Contract Brendan Williams on 0447 809 808 for more inforamtion or First National Real Estate Atherton on 4091 1177.

24 Koci Road, ATHERTON Online Auction Brendan Williams First National Real Estate Atherton 0447 809 808

Contact:

50% Reduction Luxury River Front Apartments

LIQUIDATION SALE NOW FROM $265,000 WAS $525,000

• “Living well’ is knowing that everything you need is close by.

• “Living well’ is living in a secure, maintenance free community.

• “Living well’ is a place were lifelong friends are made and a new experience is had.

• Living in a secure and tranquil community • “Living well’ is living an active social life within a vibrant community • “River Grande” the desirable place to live. A place to live a life, made easier. Located in the heart of Innisfail. Easy access to every amenity.

You will love living at “River Grande“ as it’s a vibrant community within an elegant riverfront and parkland location in the heart of vibrant Innisfail.

• Prestige interiors • Luxurious inclusions • Pool deck entertainment • Live in a Riverfront apartment with a relaxing friendly lifestyle of leisure with full security and no maintenance

“We love living here, so peaceful with breathtaking river views. It is so convenient to walk to the many coffee shops, the post office, the library, the supermarket, the doctor and the dentist.”

OPEN

Saturda 1pm - 2p y m

2 and 3 Bedroom Apartments available

June Sueyek.

Resident: River Grande

30 Fitzgerald Esplanade Innisfail Call Ronnie 0417 760 500 or Matt 0490 274 794 To arrange an inspection Today.

PAGE 24 The Express, Wednesday, February 24, 2021

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

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Act quickly - affordable acreage This fully fenced 5 acre property located 10-15miutes north of Mareeba, in the small township of Biboohra, features a unique three bedroom home, with a breezeway overlooking a small concrete inground swimming pool, complete with waterfall. Best of all is the price of $360,000 negotiable.

Built to last, the home has rough rendered concrete walls

throughout and a solid concrete roof keeping the home cool even on the hottest days.

Although a little dated, the home has character with timber features on the door/ window trims, deco tile work in the entrance and stamped concrete in the breezeway.

The bathroom has been completely renovated featuring a nice bathtub, whilst the

kitchen also has had renovation work done but not completed, with the splashback and tiled floors to the kitchen cupboards needing finishing touches.

Attached to the main home is an additional store room and workshop area that could be renovated into a granny flat or whatever extension the family needs.

The breezeway that separates these areas has table and chairs setup and is currently used for entertaining with a great view of the inground pool.

With a few personalised changes to the house and a little hard work in the garden, you will end up with a wonderful place to call home, enjoying the peace, privacy and

space acreage living has to offer, all at an affordable price.

Contact agent John GonAddress: Price: Agent: Contact:

calves at Ray White Mareeba on 0407 690 961 for more information or to book an inspection today.

BIBOOHRA $360,000 NEG John Goncalves Ray White Mareeba 0407 690 961

INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITY NOT TO BE MISSED!

UNIQUE RIVERFRONT PROPERTY

• Fully fenced 951m corner allotment • Good access for a caravan, boat or large shed • Modern open plan design • Fully airconditioned • A front to back double carport ideal for large family gatherings • Room for construction of a 2nd dwelling (STCA) • Currently rented at $360 per week Price $345,000 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

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

raywhiteruralmareeba.com.au/qld/mareeba

raywhiteruralmareeba.com.au/qld/mareeba

raywhiteruralmareeba.com.au/qld/mareeba

MORE THAN MEETS THE EYE

3

2

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

1

The Express, Wednesday, February 24, 2021 PAGE 25

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Central potential Have you ever wondered where the centre point of Atherton is? Well, here it is. This multi-functional residential property has the location and capacity to operate your business from home.

Here you will discover a spacious family home spread over two levels. The lower level has a large open area combined with a separate shower and toilet, leaving upstairs as the family’s domain.

The upper level has three bedrooms plus an office.

Housework is a breeze as the open plan living area has vinyl floor coverings for

Call Trisha 0419 183 145

easy care.

There is a slow combustion and an electric stove in the kitchen. The main bathroom has a plunge bath and a separate shower.

For the handyman there is a steel shed with power connected. Your children can walk safely to the primary school without crossing a road. Just a short walk to Address: Price: Agent: Contact:

Woolies, the Hospital, swimming pool and library.

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 ATHERTON $340,000 Trisha Jackson Professionals Atherton 0419 183 145

        

PAGE 26 The Express, Wednesday, February 24, 2021

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Tidy home in handy central CBD location

Positioned at 83 Constance Street close to all amenities, this tidy two-bedroom home which incorporates a blend of timber and masonry block is one that needs to be considered if location is a must.

The home is situated on a 696m2 block with rear access and certainly a property that will grow in demand as the senior demographic look forward to living within a very short distance to everything.

Features Include: • Two large bedrooms • Separate lounge/dining rooms • Practical kitchen with plenty cupboard space • Separate bathroom and toilet • Lovely private back patio

• Garden shed • Fully fenced, lovely back yard Currently rented on a long-term lease and never fails to attract quality tenants.

This property has options it can: (a) will easily and without issues bolt onto your investment portfolio, (b) suit a first time home buyer, (c) buy as a project to add your own touches and updates or (d) develop with a new built, whichever you Address: Price: Agent: Contact:

choose this sort location can only appreciate in value.

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.

Call exclusive agent Andrew Rogato on 0418 183 444 for more information or drop into The Pink Building – Rogato Real Estate office on Byrnes Street, Mareeba.

$395,000

Constance St, MAREEBA $235,000 NEG EXCLUSIVE to Andrew Rogato Rogato Real Estate 0418 183 444

Aurelia 0418 183 555

$280,000 $249,000 neg

www.4880.com.au

www.4880.com.au

www.4880.com.au Aurelia 0418 183 555

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

Aurelia 0418 183 555

The Express, Wednesday, February 24, 2021 PAGE 27

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Low maintenance Mareeba acreage FOR LEASE MAREEBA

• 24.4M X 15.5M COLORBOND SHED WITH 3 PHASE POWER • MEZZANINE + 2 AIRCONDITIONED OFFICES & STOREROOM • 4X HIGH CLEARANCE R/DOORS, 2 TOILETS + 2 POWER METERS • 1806M2 BLOCK, SECURITY FENCED WITH CHEWKO RD FRONTAGE JOE TORRISI 0417 700 468 WWW.JOETORRISI.COM.AU

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 PAGE 28 The Express, Wednesday, February 24, 2021

If you’re looking for a less complicated acreage lifestyle and a low maintenance home then this 2 bedroom Queenslander style property has everything you need included in an affordable price range.

Offering a beautiful wrap around timber deck to enjoy the cool tableland breeze all year round as well as the following features: • Approx 200m2 steel frame home, gyprock lined with insulated roof and walls & low maintenance colourbond exterior • Stylish interior with 2.7m high ceilings, fully tiled internally + tinted windows & security screens • Approx 120m2 wrap around timber deck with spa bath • Generous kitchen with corner pantry, ample bench

space and room for a table • Air-conditioned master bedroom with built-in and walk-through robe to the bathroom plus sliding door access to the deck • Lounge with office nook • Elegant bathroom fully tiled to the ceiling plus second building with laundry and 2nd shower and toilet • Above ground saltwater pool • Fully fenced 4001m2 allotment with electric gated entry and a selection of fruit trees • Lockable 20 foot shipAddress: Price: Agent: Contact:

ping container plus chook pen and dog pen • Positioned on the fringe of town only 5 mins to Mareeba CBD Enjoy a country lifestyle, have a weekend getaway or simply live a less complicated life… the choice is yours and with the price now reduced it’s exceptional buying.

For further information or to arrange a private inspection please call exclusive agent Joe Torrisi on 0417 700 468.

111 Blacks Rd, MAREEBA REDUCED to $379,000 NEG EXCLUSIVE to Joe Torrisi Joe Torrisi Real Estate 0417 700 468

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

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Private and peaceful Atherton retreat Undeniably one of Atherton’s most spectacular properties this private and peaceful retreat is set on 1.21 hectares behind lush gardens and established trees offering complete privacy.

Custom designed the home itself is set across 3 levels with 5 bedrooms in total. The ground floor consists of 2 large ensuited bedrooms as well as the dining, living area and kitchen.

The living area showcases cathedral-style ceilings with intricate silky oak beams,

fireplace as well as access to the patio through large glass doors, providing seamless indoor to outdoor living.

The kitchen is constructed of maple timber with a large curved island bench as the feature. Flowing off here are French doors opening out onto the covered entertainment area.

The large foyer leads you up the staircase to the upper level housing a separate living area, an elegant large bathroom, kitchenette and separate bedroom.

On the lower level are two more bedrooms plus a large open plan rumpus room, which would be make an ideal parental escape, home theatre or office.

Outside you have the massive spring fed dam with pergola, the perfect place to Address: Price: Agent: Contact:

RURAL COMMERCIAL VENTURE Tumoulin • Set on 35 hectares • 3 bedroom, 3 bathroom home • 9 dams • Quarry: 2000 ton extraction license • 36m x 15m workshop with power • Improved pastures $880,000 ATH21630380 Morgan Brennan 0407 730 450

Contact agent Morgan Brennan at Ray White Atherton today on 0407 730 450 for your inspection. www.raywhiteruralatherton.com.au/ATH22862912 ATHERTON $1,450,000 Morgan Brennan Ray White Atherton 0407 730 450

Atherton

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

WHAT A START! Atherton • Set on 1,000m2 in new estate • Includes: 3 bay shed (7m x 10.7m) & engineered house plans • Soil testing already done • Views to the ranges • Great starter package $170,000 ATH22544792 Suzey Whitby 0438 090 306

relax the day away enjoying the wildlife.

HOME WITH VIEWS Tolga • 4 large bedrooms • Master with ensuite & WIR • Beautiful country kitchen • Large entertaining deck • Inground saltwater pool • Views to the ranges & beyond $617,000 ATH22841863 Suzey Whitby 0438 090 306

LOCATION & VIEWS Barrine • Set on 77.34 hectares • Fertile rolling hills • Natural water • Fenced into 3 paddocks • Bitumen road access • Room for potential house site $1,300,000 ATH22656255 Morgan Brennan 0407 730 450

SO CLOSE TO THE LAKE Yungaburra • 4 bedrooms • Open plan tiled living • Spacious kitchen • Timber deck • Set on 1,262m2 • Great location $398,000 ATH22866222 Suzey Whitby 0438 090 306

www.raywhiteruralatherton.com.au www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

The Express, Wednesday, February 24, 2021 PAGE 29

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Price reduced – owners want it sold In a sought after location close to St Stephen's Catholic College resides this 3 bedroom plus office property on just over an acre.

Constructed of solid, brick external walls, this home offers a massive undercover patio area, pool and services town and bore water. What's not to love about 7 Salihe Avenue.

Inside, there is a large kitchen with walk in pantry, breakfast bar and a servery.

Tiled flooring continues through the archway off the kitchen to the spacious dining/living area - one of two living spaces in this home.

A hallway to 3 large, carpeted and air-conditioned bedrooms plus an office, big enough for a single bed. Two of the bedrooms have built in robes. The family bathroom

has a large shower recess and lots of storage space.

Out the back is a massive undercover patio area overlooking the back yard, established gardens and an in ground swimming pool.

There's a large shed with roller door, bore pump and chicken coop on the property.

• Large kitchen with walkin pantry, breakfast bar and servery • Dining area and 2 living spaces - all with tiled flooring • Family bathroom with separate toilet, lots of storage space

The property has an abundant supply of water from the permanent spring fed creeks and dam, including a lake.

The paddocks are currently agisted and have gravity fed water troughs & the large timber cattle yards are easily accessible from the main road.

With 96 acres of cleared land, a plantation of cocoa trees, 105 acres of rainforest

and access to the Dirran River with a beautiful little "pretty" creek, this property has a lot to offer for the family that is looking for a bit of everything.

Address: Price: Agent:

• Covered rear porch and patio leading to inground swimming pool • Good storage space throughout the home • Double garage, shed, Mature gardens, chook pen • Fully fenced, 4,222 sqm block with town and bore water Call exclusive agent Vince Costas for more information or to arrange a private viewing of this unique property. Phone 0419 926 691.

7 Salihe Av, MAREEBA REDUCED to $480,000 EXCLUSIVE to Vince Costas Central Realty Mareeba 0419 926 691

Contact:

Good lifestyle grazing block in Tarzali

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

Malanda

Located in the green rolling hills of Tarzali is this large 201 acre lifestyle grazing property.

With a large barn style home and added luxuries of a kitchen and bathroom, you'll feel right at home. Gas hot water, septic tank, rain water tanks, shed and two workshops either side of the main part of the barn there is plenty of room for all the toys.

Jeanette Suffield 0407 745 748

Address: Price: Agent: Contact:

Call Elders Real Estate agent Shellie Nightingale for more information and an inspection on 0429 966 038.

Lot 95 Hitchconole Rd, TARZALI $750,000 NEG Shellie Nightingale Elders Real Estate Malanda 0429 966 038

Shellie Nightingale 0429 966 038

12 ACRES CLOSE TO TOWN

Insurance starts with a chat 3

1

2

A perfect location and a good sized block, 12 acres & only 1.5 klms from Malanda, neatly tucked away on the Yungaburra side of Malanda and within walking distance to town.

$550,000

A: 21 James Street, Malanda | P: 4096 5666 | W: malanda.eldersrealestate.com.au PAGE 30 The Express, Wednesday, February 24, 2021

Contact Gail Barton 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.

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So much to offer – great location Located in a quiet street and bursting with charm is this large clay brick family home sitting on 817sqm.

• 4 spacious and carpeted bedrooms with ceiling fans. 2 bedrooms feature built-in cupboards while the master suite has its own private ensuite.

There is an air-con unit in the 4th bedroom.

• Spacious timber kitchen with breakfast bar, electric appliances (including dishwasher) and large walkin pantry.

• Talk business or pleasure in the open dining room which features a wood heater.

• Main bathroom

features a 3-way vanity, toilet & bathroom. All separate from each other, coming in very handy when family & friends come to stay.

• Enjoy entertaining without the worry of the weather in the huge, tiled sun room/2nd living area.

• A great addition to this home is the in-ground pool/spa surrounded by palm trees giving the outdoor area a resort style feeling.

Address: Price: Agent:

• For storage & workspace the home features a double bay plus shed with power and electric roller door.

• There is a 2 car tandem carport with vehicle access to the 2 bay shed and single carport.

For more information or a private inspection please call exclusive marketing agent Daimin Kochi at Main St Real Estate Atherton.

19 Baxter Av, Atherton $385,000 Daimin Kochi Main Street Real Estate 0448 916 246

Contact:

Prestigious family home, outstanding Atherton location Positioned in a quiet close, surrounded by other quality homes and only 2km from Atherton Town Centre is 1a Bailey Close, an immaculately presented and well maintained 5 bedroom family home.

Offering a spacious floorplan filled with natural light, open plan living, dining area and lounge room. All bedrooms have built in wardrobes and the master suite has a large walk-in robe and a beautifully open ensuite.

The neutral colour pallet throughout, coupled with the tiled floor adds to the overall appeal. There is a large entertaining area at the back

of the home, overlooking the rear yard.

Property features include: • All bedrooms carpeted with built in robes • Large master bedroom walk in robe, air-conditioning, generous ensuite featuring double sinks, shower and toilet.

• Study – ideal for home office • Media Room with airconditioning • Modern well-appointed kitchen – Walk-in pantry, stone benchtops, gas stove, electric oven and plenty of bench space.

• Spacious open plan living

• Ceiling fans and security screens throughout home • Main Bathroom – Plunge bath plus shower • Internal Laundry with linen cupboard, sink and rear door access to patio • Double glazed windows and glass sliding doors • Large undercover entertainment patio overlooking rear views – relax with the family and entertain in priAddress: Price: Agent: Contact:

vacy • Double remote control garage – can fit 4 cars or perfect for extra storage space • 1.5KW solar power – Save on electricity bills!

• Low maintenance gardens • Partly fenced 1 acre allotment • Located only 3km from Atherton Town Centre.

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

1a Bailey Cl, ATHERTON $599,000 EXCLUSIVE to Raquel Cunzolo Sommerset Realty 0408 983 879

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

DAIMIN KOCHI 0448 916 246

RARE & SUPER SOLID INVESTMENT • Solid clay brick duplex close to schools • Open lounge/dining area, large kitchen • 3 good sized bedrooms, 2 with built-ins • Spacious bathroom tiled to the ceiling • Single carport extended for private patio • Both tenanted, combined income $520/week $498,000

KATH JOHNSON 0488 426 686

RETIRE AT AMBROSE PLACE, TOLGA • Clay brick villa, friendly over 50’s community • Open plan living area, 3 carpeted bedrooms • Kitchen has lots of cupboard space, pantry • Covered patio, single carport, store room • Small shed, low body corp fees, 405m2 block • Communal BBQ, inground pool & gardens $275,000

A GREAT START • 1.51 acre allotment, benched house pad • 12x9m 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

TOP COMMERCIAL INVESTMENT • 2 industrial sheds on 1065m2 fenced block • Showing good rental return, Little Trix nursery • 1 + 1 year lease, plans to stay on & expand • Both sheds are approx. 200m2, 3 phase power • Office, separate store room, unisex bathroom • Wheelchair access, off street customer parking $320,000

2 DWELLINGS ON 1 BLOCK, CHILLAGOE • Main home is open plan, high ceilings • Well appointed kitchen with dishwasher • 2 built-in bedrooms, front & rear decks • Rented for $250/week, solar hot water • Liveable shed, kitchen, bathroom, 1 bedroom • Genny backup, 2 water tanks, 1012m2 $185,000

Phone 4091 6246 • www.mainstrealestate.com.au www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

The Express, Wednesday, February 24, 2021 PAGE 31

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Tucked away in Herberton Sitting in a pretty woodland setting, this property offers privacy and convenience all wrapped up in a very neat package.

The solid masonry block home has been fully renovated from top to toe with outstanding attention to detail and thought given to every aspect from somewhere to park the motor home to the

stunning handmade kitchen.

The home features exquisite timber craftsmanship, a luxury bathroom, front and back outdoor living spaces, a 3-bay garage or shed plus secure undercover parking for your motorhome.

The land sits on half an acre with two street frontage and adjoins crown land which the new owner has the option

to convert to freehold should they desire.

Features include: • 3 Bedroom with built-in wardrobes • Open plan lounge and dining area featuring a wood heater • Utility room incorporating laundry and office • Galley style kitchen with New Guinea Rosewood

benchtops, gas cooktop and electric oven • Fully renovated bathroom with walk-in shower • Full length front verandah plus rear pergola • 3 Bay garage • Undercover motorhome parking • Single carport • Ability to subdivide land if desired

www.athertonrealty.com.au

4091 1611

24 Main St Atherton

Contact exclusive marketing agent, Collette from Atherton Realty on 0419

Address: Price: Agent: Contact:

SELLING?

Call now for a FREE MARKET APPRAISAL

733 712 for more information and to organise a private inspection.

7 Empress Av, MOOMIN $415,000 EXCLUSIVE to Collette Rowston Atherton Realty 0419 733 712

Rino Gava 0427 779 086 Collette Rowston 0419 733 712

TUCKED AWAY IN QUIET CUL-DE-SAC 3 Larkin Close - $319,000

CATTLE BREEDING PROPERTY 551 Mount Mulligan Rd - $998,000

EXECUTIVE WITH VIEWS 4 Coronis Circuit - $519,000

CONTEMPORARY HOME, VIEWS 87 Loder Street - $439,000

 3 bedrooms, 1 bathroom in quiet close  Open plan living with aircon and fireplace  6m x 4m Colorbond shed with power  Currently tenanted

 New 3 bedroom + office Colorbond home  1828 freehold acres, 9 fenced paddocks  5 dams, main one with 450 meg capacity  Plant and equipment & 8Kw solar system

 Architecturally designed home  5 bedrooms/3 bathrooms incl. granny flat  Timber floors upstairs  Central Atherton with views

 4 bedrooms + 2 bathrooms  Vaulted ceiling in open plan living  Large tiled outdoor area with views  Double lock-up garage with extra storage

Collette 0419 733 712

Rino 0427 779 086

Collette 0419 733 712

Rino 0427 779 086

WEB ID: 666709

PAGE 32 The Express, Wednesday, February 24, 2021

WEB ID: 666709

WEB ID: 525174

WEB ID: 671615

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

property

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Premium lakefront property

Modern and spectacular WOW. This modern home is spectacular with beautiful views of the tablelands.

The house offers two spacious bedrooms and one extra room that can be used as a third bedroom, office, or hobby room with the main bedroom presenting a very functional walkin robe and modern ensuite. All rooms open to the patio through large sliding glass doors.

The stunning kitchen presents with stainless appliances and is part of the extensive open plan design. The home is built with generous glass siding doors and windows to capture the breezes that can be felt sweeping throughout the home and natural light with the added warmth of the polished timber floors throughout.

Every room presents a different part of the picture book as every room gives a different aspect of this magic view. The wrap

around veranda gives opportunity to sit and enjoy every changing moment of the day, if it is with a cup of tea in the morning or that well deserved glass of wine in the afternoon, never tiring of the picturesque surroundings.

A fireplace makes it very cosy on those cold days whilst aircons cool it down on the hot days. A home theatre screen and monitor are delicately hidden in the ceiling and be pulled down for family entertainment.

There is a fully lockable shed for all the toys and workshop. The gardens are landscaped to suit the surrounding area.

This is a must inspect home as the photos do not do it justice.

Address: Price: Agent: Contact:

• Three bedroom (main bedroom with walk in robe and en-suite) • Two bath • Open plan design • Home theatre • Modern kitchen • Beautiful timber floors • Air conditioning • Wood fire heater • Large veranda • House wired for generator • Fully enclosed shed • Spectacular views • School bus • 1.01 ha

filled and open-plan while the large kitchen boasts ample storage space, sweeping benchtops and stainlesssteel appliances including a dishwasher and gas cooktop.

There is plenty of room to spread out and relax with three good-size bedrooms and two bathrooms plus there’s an office for those who work from home.

Adding to the versatility of this 1.3-hectare property is

This is your chance to call this rare property with direct lake access to Tinaroo, home sweet home.

Imagine returning home at the end of the day to relax on your covered wrap-around verandah as you host guests and admire the stunning lake views; does it get any better than this?

The home was built by Danny Howe, a well-respected local builder known for using traditional hand nailing techniques.

The gorgeous, polished timber floors flow underfoot throughout the home while a slow-combustion fireplace ensures a cosy ambience.

The living spaces are light-

Address: Price: Agent: Contact:

• Ideal investment opportunity • Cottage style home • Single lock up garage • Vegetable gardens • 1,012m2 block

$270,000

To arrange an inspection call exclusive agent Alex Payne on 0409 328 153.

4 Old Boar Pocket Road, BARRINE $POA EXCLUSIVE to Alex Payne LJ Hooker Atherton 0409 328 153

For more information, or to book your private inspection, call Darren on 0429977675 @ Tablelands.com and Malanda Real Estate.

RAVENSHOE $550,000 NEG Susanne Reynolds Tablelands.com & Malanda Real Estate 0408 733 149

URGENTLY NEED LISTINGS! - Have Buyers!

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

www.tablelands.com

ATHERTON

Full of Character in Heart of Malanda MALANDA: 26 Patrick Street 3 1 2

the large liveable shed with tiled flooring, a fireplace, and kitchen facilities.

Three carports provide plenty of sheltered vehicle storage. All this is set on the shores of Lake Tinaroo only 30 minutes from Atherton and just over an hour from Cairns.

Relax in Yungaburra Village!

YUNGABURRA: 20 Oak Street 3

1 2 • Located close to main street of Yungaburra • Great investment opportunity • Large back verandah perfect for entertaining • Two bay shed • 809m2 block

$380,000

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

4091 3144

MUST GO!!

TARZALI: 19 First Avenue

3 1 1 • Located toward the top of the hill • New gas stove and oven • Brand new fridge included in purchase • Wooden fireplace • 1,214m2 block

Mid $200,000s

Look Out Over Your Own Paradise TARZALI: 15 Turner Road 3 1

2 • Beautiful views of lush paddocks & rainforest • Former dairy farm, now runs approximately 40 head of cattle • Farm equipment and cattle included • 153 acres

$1,375,000

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, February 24, 2021 PAGE 33

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

EARLY LEARNING • KINDERGARTEN OUTSIDE SCHOOL & VACATION CARE

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

QUO

T ES!

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 34 The Express, Wednesday, February 24, 2021

r For all you rior e t x 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

DENTAL

teed! uaran G y ll u ork F All W BUILDING SERVICES

QBCC Licence No. 1162246

@redsjoinerymareeba

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 r Exp

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

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 ARC Lic # L166416 • 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

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!

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

DIRECTORY

The Express, Wednesday, February 24, 2021 PAGE 35

DIRECTORY

s s E Expr

 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

TECHNICIANS - Over 20 years experience!

Service & reliability you can trust!

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

Servicing the Tablelands • David Cifuentes 0438 682 002

SCENIC FLIGHTS

QBCC No. 1275266

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

Maintenance, Repairs & Safety Inspections

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 36 The Express, Wednesday, February 24, 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, February 24, 2021 PAGE 37

CLASSIfIedS

s s E r Exp

4092 3464

admin@theexpressnewspaper.com.au

Natasha Burton

ChurCh NotiCe

FuNeral NotiCe

aNNiverSary

For Sale

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 28 FEBRUARY, 2021: THE FIRST EASTER #2: THE ARREST

Late of Kewarra Aged Care Kewarra Beach, formerly of Mareeba. Passed away peacefully on the 12th of February, 2021. Aged 96 years.

Beloved Husband of Enid. Loved Father, Father-inLaw, Granddad and Great Granddad of Kevin, Clem, Barbara and their families.

A funeral service has taken place.

IKIN, Ronald

Happy 60th Wedding Anniversary

Mangoes For Sale Bags $5 Trays $15 Huge Range of Plants for Sale Starting at $1 Each

“Have you come out, as against a robber, with swords and clubs? When I was with you daily in the temple, you did not try to seize Me. But this is your hour, and the power of darkness.” (Luke 22:52-53) Includes prayer for the proclamation of the Gospel in different spheres of Australian society, in support of the ‘Forty Day of Prayer for Revival and Transformation in Australia’ initiative.

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

IACUTONE, Settimio ‘Sam’

Want to wish someone in your life Happy Birthday? Call Tash at your friendly locally owned Newspaper on 4092 3464. Classie deadline is 4pm every Friday.

iN MeMoriaM IN LOVING MEMORY OF

ROBYN WARBURTON

Who passed 1st March, 2003.

Always in our thoughts and memories.

We keep you close within our hearts and often speak your name.

Walk with us throughout our lives until we meet again. Eternally in our hearts.

Much love Dad (deceased), Mum (deceased), Allan, Bronwyn, Gail, Sandra and families.

LOWE, Frances “Fran”

Late of Magnetic Island, formerly Yungaburra.

Devoted and loving Wife of Don. Loving Mother of Stuart, Sheryl, Andrew and families.

In accordance with Fran’s wishes, a Memorial and Celebra�on of Fran’s life will be held at the Bowls Club on Magne�c Island at 2.00pm on Saturday the 6th March, 2021.

All Club Members and Cra� Ladies, all Friends and Family are warmly invited.

Late of Mareeba, formerly Celano L’Aquila, Italy.

Passed away peacefully at the Mareeba Hospital on Monday the 15th of February, 2021. Aged 90 years.

Beloved Husband of Maria (Dec.) Dearly loved Father of John, Elio and Nicoletta. Cherished Nonno of Marina, Clare, Sophie and Chloe.

A Funeral Service will be held for ‘Sam’, but due to the current Covid-19 restrictions, please contact the family for details.

Guilfoyle Funeral Services Chapels, Crematorium & Memorial Gardens

Atherton: 4091 2147 Mareeba: 4092 1013

13/10/1934 ~ 25/02/2016 Sometimes I just sit quietly, Reflecting for a while, Imagining you voice, your face, Your warm and loving smile.

For it’s lovely to recall, The happy times we had, When you played such a special role, As both husband and dad.

And this very special time, I only wish you knew, That I’d give all the world today, For one more hour with you.

But I still have my memories, And since we’re apart, It comforts me so much to know, That you’re tight here in my heart.

Forever loved, and sadly missed – Julie.

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

Mi nebi postojali da se vi niste zavolili, tajna za 60 godina braka stoji u vama, ljubav postivanje i sloga, to vas je dovelo do dana ovoga.

We would not be here today if it weren’t for your love. You are a very special couple who are much adored. Your love and marriage 60 years ago, on this day, is a testament to the respect and unity you both share. The secret to your long marriage is love, respect and harmony, all of this you still show even to this day.

We’re very proud to call you Tata and Mama.

Best wishes for today & always, Love Joza, Mirko, Boris & Families.

Birthday

FuNeral

www.guilfoylefunerals.com.au

DEBBIE BOARDMAN

Funeral Celebrant

HOLE, Leslie Thomas

Late of Tolga. Passed away peacefully on the 14th of February, 2021. Aged 91 years.

Beloved Husband of Alma (dec.). Dearly loved Father and Father-in-Law of Christine & Alan, Suzanne, John & Sylvia, Elizabeth and Richard. Loving Papa of Makaela, Jesse, Kate and Emma.

Due to government restrictions, a private service will be held. For funeral details please call Suzanne Hole on 0428 280 758 or John Hole on 0437 826 456.

Guilfoyle Funeral Services Chapels, Crematorium & Memorial Gardens

Atherton: 4091 2147 Mareeba: 4092 1013

Final farewells with respect.

Phone 0410 328 357

Happy 90th Birthday

Elisa Capaldi 24th February Love from Antonietta, Angelo, Daniela and families.

WaNted to Buy any old acoustic or electric guitars & vinyl records. 0437 112 512.

Local Family Owned & “Entrusted for over 70 years”

www.guilfoylefunerals.com.au

thaNkS

Noel Ikin

Married in Innisfail on the 25th of February, 1961.

Local Family Owned & “Entrusted for over 70 years”

Want to place a thank you notice? Call Tash on 4092 3464 or email admin@theexpressnewspaper. com.au for a proof and quote.

In Loving Memory Of

Vojko & Ivka Ivičević

Thank you to my beautiful family for your love and support during my recent health scare. To my lovely friend for sending cards, phoned with well wishes and visited. A very special thank you to Cairns Base Hospital and Mareeba Hospital Doctors and Staff for their wonderful care and attention.

Thank you so much, Lena Ius.

your loCal ClassIFIeDs

ButCher

WaNted

loCal Mobile Farm Butcher - will travel. Ph Bryan 0407 691 752.

MOTORCYCLES WANTED

BIll Black Mobile Butcher. Hang up to 7 days. 0408 922 812.

2 or 4 wheels, running or not.

Will pay cash!

Pick up in most areas.

MoBIle farm butcher.

Ph John Hales 0409 638 882.

Want to place an In Memoriam advert?

Phone 4092 3464 today.

 0400 079 544 sell it today. Call Tash today on 4092 3464 or email admin@ theexpressnewspaper. com.au.

SALE BEGINS SATURDAY 20TH FEBRUARY UNTIL SOLD OUT! Scarecrow Farm, Emerald Creek, Kennedy Highway, Mareeba (Cairns Side) Jake & Lucy Scarecrow Family

FOR SALE

Private sale, council approved liveable shed, 2 bays living area, 3 bays shed, 2 bedrooms, close to Tolga racetrack.

$348,000 ONO Phone 0448 358 630

GaraGe Sale 10 Moffat Drive, Tolga Saturday 27th February 8.00am - 5.00pm Sunday 28th February 8.00am - 12noon Decina shower cubicle & accs., 1600 hutch, Tuff-a-bow, household items, CDs, LPs, DVDs, bric-a-brac, plants, camping gear, lawn bowls, clothing, linen etc.

0457 581 736 0411 610 872

Classified deadlines

4pm Friday prior to the next week’s publication

163 orchid Close Biboohra, 8am 12 noon, this Sat. Workshop tools and furniture etc.

6 Turnbull Drive, Tolga.

Sat 27th & Sun 28th Feb, 7am - 12noon.

auCtioN 27th February, 9am 53-55 Chewko Road, Mareeba Contents of shed, general workshop, slabs of black walnut timber. Cash sale!

No EFTPOS available.

0417 641 388

your loCal ClassIFIeDs

Did you know...

You can read every edition online and that all our local stories are FREE to read and always will be?

Visit us at www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au for your FREE local news!

The Express, Wednesday, February 24, 2021 PAGE 38

CLASSIfIedS Public notice A.G.M.

Position Vacant

DEPLOYMENT CODE: NEWSPAPER NOTICE

Tableland Country Music Club 10am @ Mareeba Leagues Club, Sunday 28th February Music starts at 12 noon.

1.

AL-ANON FAMILY GROUPS

2.

The purpose of this installation is to provide enhanced 4G services to the Ravenshoe area.

Telstra regards the proposed installation as a Low Impact installation in accordance with the the Telecommunications (Low-impact Facilities) Determination 2018 Schedule Facilities and areas Part 1 - Radio Facilities Item 4 and Part 3 - Low Impact Facilities Item 3.1(4)(a) based on the description above.

3.

In accordance with Section 7 of C564:2020 Mobile Phone Base Station Deployment, we invite you to provide feedback about the proposal. Further information and/or comments should be directed to Elizabeth Easton, Site Logic for Telstra, +61 444 580 047, liz@sitelogic.net.au by Tuesday 9 March 2021.

PROPOSAL TO UPGRADE AN EXISTING TELSTRA MOBILE PHONE BASE STATION AT:

Requires the following staff: PRACTICE NURSE

The proposal involves the removal of six (6) existing panel antennas (each antenna measuring 2025mm in length) and the installation of six (6) new panel antennas (each antenna measuring 2438mm in length) on the existing 25m steel monopole; the upgrading of equipment within the existing equipment shelter; the installation of new equipment together with the upgrading of installed equipment on the monopole; and ancillary works necessary for the effective and safe operation of the site.

For friends and family of Alcoholics.

Meetings in Yungaburra P: 0413 346 957

RAVENSHOE RT: CEMETERY RD RAVENSHOE QLD 4888 RFNSA: www.rfnsa.com.au/4872008

Amaroo Medical Casual Registered Nurse for 2-3 days per week and holiday relief. Duties include clinical support, chronic disease management, wound dressing & immunisation.

RECEPTIONIST

Casual Receptionist for 2-3 days per week and holiday relief. Duties include answering phones, greeting patients, data entry, processing transactions & maintaining confidentiality.

All applicants must be competent in computer use and previous experience in a medical practice is desirable.

For an application package: Phone 4092 5900 or Email: jo@amaroomedical.com.au

Applications close: 5pm, Friday 26th February.

DECLARATION OF LOCAL PEST AMAZON FROGBIT MAREEBA SHIRE COUNCIL’S LOCAL LAW NO. 3 (COMMUNITY AND ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT) 2018 In accordance with section 7 of Mareeba Shire Council’s Local Law No. 3 (Community and Environmental Management) 2018 Mareeba Shire Council resolved at its meeting on 17 February 2021 that the plant, Limnobium laevigatum, commonly known as Amazon Frogbit, be declared a local pest within Mareeba Shire.

Purpose and Scope of the Declaration: To ensure that immediate action can be taken to prevent the spread of Amazon Frogbit within the Mareeba Shire. Council’s authorised officers will investigate complaints and sightings of Amazon Frogbit on both local government controlled areas and roads, and private property and take the required action to ensure the appropriate disposal of Amazon Frogbit. Fines may apply for the sale or supply of Amazon Frogbit, and/or for failure to comply with a direction given to you by Council’s authorised officers.

Declaration Period: The Declaration of Amazon Frogbit as a declared local pest as per Council’s Local Law No.3 (Community and Environmental Management) 2018 will be in place for a period of 3 months, commencing on 24 February 2021 and ending on 23 May 2021.

Area that the Declaration Applies: The declaration applies to the whole of Mareeba Shire.

Access to Resolution: The public may inspect a copy of Councils resolution at Councils office. These documents will also be available to view on Councils website www.msc.qld. gov.au.

Peter Franks Chief Executive Officer PO Box 154, MAREEBA QLD. 4880

PLANNING ACT 2016 PUBLIC NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF MAJOR AMENDMENT NO.1 OF 2020 TO THE MAREEBA SHIRE COUNCIL PLANNING SCHEME 2016 Notice is given under the Planning Act 2016 and the Minister’s Guidelines and Rules, that on 17 February 2021, Mareeba Shire Council resolved to adopt Major Amendment No.1 of 2020 to the Mareeba Shire Council Planning Scheme 2016.

The full title of the amendment is Major Amendment No.1 of 2020 - Nullinga Dam development area.

The purpose and general effect of Major Amendment No.1 of 2020 is to establish the Nullinga Dam Overlay to protect the proposed Nullinga Dam site from activities that may: • Physically impact the structure/geology of the land; • Increase buildings and infrastructure with the area; • Affect water quality.

Major Amendment No.1 of 2020 will have effect on and from 26 February 2021.

A copy of Major Amendment No.1 of 2020 is available for inspection and purchase at the Mareeba Shire Council Mareeba Office, 65 Rankin Street, Mareeba or at https://msc.qld.gov.au/ building-planning/planning/.

Peter Franks Chief Executive Officer PO Box 154, MAREEBA QLD. 4880

Got a position vacant?

Contact tash today to place an advert: admin@theexpressnewspaper.com.au or phone 4092 3464.

For rent SERVICED OFFICES FOR RENT 1 Jack Street, Atherton P: 0414 700 081 self Removal Storage. 6m units $150 per month. 3m units - $80 per month.

Ph 0418 772 791.

Water

allocation UNDERGROUND WATER WANTED Atherton/Yungaburra Wanted to purchase for permanent transfer.

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The Express, Wednesday, February 24, 2021 PAGE 39

EXPRESSO Wednesday 24th Max 30o Min 23o

Thursday 25th Max 29o Min 22o

Friday 26th

Max 29

Tide Times 0111 0.82 0752 2.95 1352 1.25 1932 2.34

Tide Times 0141 0.66 0821 3.10 1419 1.12 2005 2.48

Tide Times 0214 0.52 0852 3.23 1450 1.00 2039 2.60

o

Min 23

o

take a break...

Saturday 27th Max 27o Min 23o

Sunday 28th

Max 30

Tide Times 0247 0.45 0924 3.29 1524 0.91 2114 2.68

Tide Times 0324 0.46 0956 3.27 1600 0.87 2151 2.69

o

Min 20

o

Monday 1st Max 30o Min 19o

Tuesday 2nd Max 31o Min 19o

Tide Times 0402 0.58 1028 3.15 1638 0.89 2233 2.63

Tide Times 0444 0.82 1102 2.94 1719 0.97 2324 2.51

WORd SEARCH CROSSWORd

SudOku

Aqua

Hail

Basin

Humidity

Black

Ice

Boil

Lake

Brook

Moist

Canal

Ocean

Channel

Pond

Damp

Pool

Depth

Pure

Drain

Salt

Drop

Snow

Flood

Surf

Flow

Steam

Freeze

Vapor

Frost

Water

Gully 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.

ACROSS 7. Cross between breakfast and lunch.

8. A person who is in charge of and determines the final content of a newspaper.

9. A heap of combustible material, especially one for burning a corpse as part of a funeral ceremony.

10. Having accepted something unpleasant that one cannot do anything about.

11. A space or gap that allows passage or access.

13. General hatred or disgust incurred by someone as a result of their actions.

15. A person who is purposefully childish with the intent of eliciting a reaction.

16. The use of dexterity or cunning, especially so as to deceive.

18. Of various sorts put together.

19. Past tense of know.

21. Sit, lie, or fall with one’s arms and legs spread out in an ungainly way.

22. A man who has been castrated to serve a specific social function.

DOWN 1. A playing card or dice with three spots.

2. Existing, occurring, or carried on between nations.

3. The membrane-lined cavity behind the nose and mouth.

4. A contract by which one party conveys land, services, etc. to another for a specified time.

5. The consumption of an excessive amount of alcohol in a short period of time.

6. A person or thing regarded as excellent or perfect.

12. A exercise performed by raising and lowering the body with the straightening and bending of the arms while keeping the back straight.

14. A scrounger.

17. Design or make in a particular form.

20. Used to refer to every one of two or more people or things, regarded and identified separately.

Weekly Horoscopes  

Aries

March 21 to April 20

Insincere gestures of friendliness are likely to occur. Put all your energy into moneymaking ventures. You may find that lectures or travel will be highly successful. Don’t let relatives get the better of you.

Puzzle solutions





Aug 23 to Sept 23 You can take advantage of opportunities if you are quick to make a move.

However, be careful with luggage; it may be rerouted. You may have a hard time relating to children this week.

June 22 to July 22

You need to do something that will make you feel better about yourself. You can travel for business or pleasure.

You will learn easily if you put forth an effort. Try to curb overindulgence this week.

Ingredients

▶ 350g Arnott’s Tim Tams ▶ 80g butter melted ▶ 375g cream cheese, softened ▶ 1/2 cup caster sugar ▶ 1 tsp vanilla essence ▶ 1 cup thickened cream ▶ 3 tsp gelatine powder ▶ 1/4 cup boiling water ▶ 200g white chocolate, melted and cooled

Method

1. Place 250g of the Tim Tams in a blender and process into fine crumbs.

2. Add the butter and process to combine. Press the mixture into spring-form baking pan and refrigerate 30 minutes.

3. Beat the cream cheese, sugar and vanilla with an electric mixer until smooth, then beat in the cream.

4. Mix the gelatine with the boiling water. Stir in the gelatine mixture, dissolved in 1/4 cup of boing water and white chocolate.

5. Chop the remaining biscuits and stir into the cream cheese mixture then pour over the Tim Tam base.

6. Cover and refrigerate until set.

ENJOY!!

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

April 21 to May 21 Your home environment appears to be a little shaky.

Courses dealing with psychology or health care will be of interest. Pushy people must be kept at arm’s length.

Upheavals may occupy your day.

Virgo

Cancer

Easy Tim Tam Cheesecake

Taurus

Scorpio

Libra Sept 24 to Oct 23

Oct 24 to Nov 22 Travel should be on your mind. You may be emotional about the way an organisation you belong to is handling its business. Remember; talk to them, not at them. Your lover will cost you dearly if you let them.

Spend time getting into physical activities with your lover. An older member of your family may have left you with a pressing situation. Rewards, gifts, or money from investments can be expected.



Capricorn

Dec 22 to Jan 20

Your bankbook will suffer and your restrictions will put a damper on your relationship. You will be erratic and quite likely to make personal mistakes. You may want to try your hand at a little creative writing.



Aquarius

Jan 21 to Feb 19 Difficulties relating to children will be stressful. You can win points with children if you take the time to show interest in their accomplishments. If you have to deal with large institutions, be careful not to make waves.

Gemini

May 22 to June 21 Take a short business trip if possible. You may have problems with skin, bones, or teeth if you haven’t been taking proper care of yourself. Take time to visit someone who has been I confined due to illness.

Leo

July 23 to Aug 22 This could be the cause of a dispute that may result in estrangement. Family get-togethers will be interesting.

You may need to lend an ear to an old friend. You should get into some of those creative hobbies you want to do.

Sagittarius

Nov 23 to Dec 21 If you keep busy you won’t feel the personal pressures you are going through.

Include the whole family or those you love. Your dedication and fortitude when dealing with humanitarian groups will enhance your reputation.

Pisces

Feb 20 to March 20 Be sure to find out all you can before you commit to anything. Your doubt could lead to insecurity.

You can gain distinction; however, it may be for the wrong reasons. Shopping could cost more than you bargained for.



The Express, Wednesday, February 24, 2021 PAGE 40

sport

Success at interhouse swimming carnival

McKinley house captains Benjamin Cousley, Ashlyn La Rosa, Georgia Brettell and Ryley Struber were the overall winners of the swimming carnival.

Mareeba State High School (MSHS) was able to hold their first carnival in over a year with their recent interhouse swimming carnival held last Friday, February 19.

With most other carnivals cancelled last year due to COVID, the annual swimming carnival was the only one the school was able to have in 2020 before shutdowns were announced.

Now a year on MSHS has high hopes for the remaining sport carnivals in the 2021 school year.

The overall winners of the 2021 MSHS swimming carnival was none other than McKinley house.

MSHS Principal (and Kennedy house member) Scott Whybird was saddened to hear of McKinley’s win once again

and has vowed revenge.

“It has always been a challenge (beating McKinley), but we will get there,” he said.

Mr Whybird said this year’s carnival had to operate differently due to COVID. “We had to do stuff slightly differently, but we wanted the students to have a good time with this.

“There were teachers swimming, there were kids swimming there were people who didn’t even know they wanted to swim swimming.

The next MSHS carnival will be their cross-country event on Thursday, April 1. Their first cross country since 2019.

“It’s going to be great to have cross country on the table again and let’s hope for a Kennedy win then,” Mr Whybird said.

The Mareeba State High School boys and girls age champions for the 2021 swimming carnival that was held on Friday.

Ladies football in the limelight

A decision has been made to move the FNQ Football ladies competitions out from the men’s shadows and given the Friday night limelight

Ladies football in the Far North will be put under the spotlight after the decision to separate the games has given the ladies a standalone Friday night competition.

Both the premier ladies and the ladies reserves competitions have been permanently moved to play on Friday nights, separate from the men’s games played over the weekends.

This decision to turn Friday night into ladies night was done

to give the ladies competition their own stage and more spotlight.

FNQ Football Zone Administrator Alex Srhoj is pleased with the move and to give the ladies competition more time in the limelight.

“The move to Friday nights is designed to give our ladies maximum exposure in the marketplace,” he said.

“Offering the opportunity to play at night, under lights on

their own stage and their own platform.

“We are taking the ladies game out of the men’s shadow and putting their competition on primetime Friday night football.”

The first Friday night fixture of the year will be the 2020 grand reply between the Edge Hill Tigers and the Leichardt Lions on April 9, followed by the men’s battle on Saturday, April 10.

Locals ready for nation first basketball for academy The Mareeba PCYC hall on Walsh Street has been alive with the sounds of scuffled shoes and buzzer beaters as a young group of Indigenous basketball players prepare to participate in a nation first competition.

The Indigenous Basketball Australia (IBA) has been running an academy since last year where the kids learn fundamental basketball skills as well as lifestyle skills.

In Mareeba there is currently two teams training in the academy since October 2020, they are also currently in the middle of their 8-week season playing against other academy teams.

This academy is the first of its kind ever in Australia and IBA Coach and Camps and Clinics Facilitator Albert Viranatuleo is excited to be a part of

the program.

“I’m a Mareeba boy and a Mareeba junior player so coming home and giving back to kids is amazing,” he said.

“We started this academy so once school starts kicking off, we want to go to the schools and provide them the opportunity to participate and not just indigenous kids but non-indigenous kids too.

“I want to make it a community or a Tablelands event.”

Mr Viranatuleo sees a lot of potential basketballers here on the Tablelands but they lack the resources that other areas may get down south.

“There is so much possible expansion for this kind of a program, the network that I can reach out to bring coaches up here covers the whole country,”

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

Local indigenous kids have been practicing since last year to play in a nation first academy and competition.

he said.

“My whole goal is to get some good athletes within the community and give them an opportunity.”

There are around 26 kids

that are currently apart of the Mareeba United team that plays against the Innisfail United, Yarrabah United and Cairns United teams every Sunday in Cairns for the 8-week competition.

After the end of this competition a squad is selected from the various teams in the Far North to fly down to the Gold Coast over the school holidays for a basketball camp.

Speedway ready for big year ahead Last week the Mareeba Motor Racing Club, better known as the Mareeba Speedway, held the club’s Annual General Meeting with a great turn out of club members at the Mareeba League’s Club.

Local Mareeba resident Zack Howell was elected President and the member’s choice was a popular one as he brings to the club many years of speedway experience.

Howell has raced and held executive positions, not only locally, but also in Darwin and Brisbane and this will be a bonus for a venue that is looking to become one the best regional speedways in Australia.

“I am excited and privileged to be voted in as the Mareeba Speedway President as the Speedway Australia credited track has so much potential and l hope my experience can help the venue develop into something very very special,” Howell told The Express this week.

“The venue is already a credit to the many hard working members who have, over many years, built a great speedway complex that they should be very proud of.”

Out going President Cameron Lowe, who now takes on the role of club secretary, took time out to thank the outgoing committee for their hard and tireless work during the 2020 season that had many challengers because of Covid.

The 2021 season office bearers are – President Zack Howell, Vice President Tim Smith, Secretary Cameron Lowe, Treasurer Tony Villella and management committee members Geoff Davis, John Tichbourne, William Tudini, Rick DiMaggio and Mark Alba.

Affordable racing fun It’s hard to keep the grin off your face. Your vehicle is in a controlled slide, you are metres from fellow competitors, and you’re on a safe, purpose built surface. At Tepon Raceway, Tablelanders have been able to do this for more than 50 years.

Tableland Competition Car Club (TCCC), continues to run grassroots motorsport activities at Tepon Motor Raceway, near Herberton. The club’s focus on keeping activities affordable, fair and fun, continues to attract “Backyard Racers” from across the Tablelands and beyond.

TCCC holds race meetings on the third Sunday of each month, starting on March 21, continuing through to the final showdown in October.

If you want to be part of a legal adrenaline speedway rush, as a participant, pit crew, official or as a spectator, contact the club on Facebook, Messenger, or visit the website at tccc-duelsindirt.org.au

The Express, Wednesday, February 24, 2021 PAGE 41

sport

Roosters trial game ready

Queensland Rugby League Grassroots Club of the Year, the Atherton Senior Roosters are back and ramping up their 2021 year ahead of a busy season which starts with a pre-season trial at Mareeba on March 6.

This year marks season 103 for the Senior Roosters and like most CDRL club’s the Tablelanders sat out the COVID affected 2020 season due to the

impact of the pandemic. Following the Mareeba trial, the Roosters pre-season will continue with further trials on March 13 and 20 before their opening premiership match with Ivanhoes at home on March 27.

Head coach Graham Clark Snr is again in charge at the Roosters and has been encouraged by the players effort and training numbers.

“It’s been really good so far,

the players are really putting it in at training and everything is very positive at the club,” Clark said.

“We are looking to have all grades playing finals this year and I am confident we can achieve this goal in what will be a tough campaign.”

The 2019 finals series would still be fresh in the minds of the Roosters first grade side after they fell one game short of the grand final after going down to Mossman in extra time of the qualifying final. Mossman went onto win the premiers title over Innisfail a week later.

Both the Roosters reserve and under 18 sides also played finals in 2019. Senior Roosters 2019 Player of the Year Graham Clark Jnr is back for another

year at Atherton and like his team mates has not played rugby league since March 2020.

The eighty minute forward has had a huge impact since joining the club in 2019 from the Northern Pride.

“I am more eager than ever to run out this year and pre-season training has been nice and tough and it’s great to be back with our playing group,” Clark said.

“There is an exciting group of youngsters coming through and I am looking forward to playing with this next generation as they get their chance to shine.”

Times for the Roosters vs Gladiators two trials at Mareeba on Saturday March 6 are 4pm reserve grade and 6pm first grade.

Senior Roosters forward Graham Clark Jnr.

Super Saturday of junior footy COMMUNITY NIGHT BOWLS TUESDAY NIGHTS Names in by 6pm, games start at 6.30pm. $10 PER NIGHT

Tea & biscuits and bar open, bowls supplied.

Atherton Bowls Club, 39 Vernon Street - 4091 1258

Junior Rugby League is alive and well across the region with the 2021 season just around the corner, Mareeba Junior Rugby League (MJRL) is hosting a super Saturday of football this weekend.

With training underway and the start of the season close behind the MJRL decided to throw a weekend carnival with the as-

Players from the Mareeba Junior Rugby League will be participating in a weekend full of football this weekend with a carnival being held and a Pride exhibition game at the centre.

sistance of their senior players and the Northern Pride.

The Northern Pride U16 and U18 teams will be arriving on Friday and will assist with running coaching clinics over the weekend before a trial match between the Pride U16s and 17s.

In and around this exhibition game the MJRL players will be pitted against the Redlynch Razorbacks who will be travelling up for the event.

MJRL President Shaun Fin-

cham said that there is a “buzz” around the ground as the kids get ready for their weekend carnival.

“There is certainly a buzz around the grounds, we are getting great numbers to training, rain, hail or shine they have been turning up to training,” he said.

“This was largely instigated by the Pride feature game and the MJRL committee has just jumped on the back of that and instigated proposed games between Redlynch and Mareeba.

“It should be a really good learning curve for the kids and also for the coaches this year, they will certainly get a lot out of it.”

There will be several MJRL players who will be donning the blue and orange Pride jerseys for the exhibition match at 2.10pm this Saturday, February 27.

Cain Hastie and Kyan Sheppard wil be representing the U16 Pride side going up against teammate Reece Daly in the U17 side.

54 MAIN ST, ATHERTON | PHONE 4091 1006 www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

The Express, Wednesday, February 24, 2021 PAGE 42

sport

Yungaburra Triathlon back on for April 2021 Yungaburra Triathlon competitor Megan Hendry is looking forward to this years event after the cancelled 2020 event.

The Atherton Turf Club is gearing up for their first race meet of March and invites people along to enjoy a day on the track.

Turf club gears up for March meet

BY RHYS THOMAS Bikes are being dusted off, goggles are being cleaned and shoes are being tied as training begins for the upcoming 2021 Yungaburra Triathlon. last year’s event was cancelled due to COVID much to the dismay of hopeful competitors who had spent months training for the April race.

Many will have their fingers crossed that this year’s event will be able to continue without another disruption.

There have already been 161 nominations for this year’s event, something which is a wel-

come sight for competitors and organizers alike.

Megan Hendry, a past competitor and current spokesperson of the Yungaburra Triathlon has already begun her training even competing in other triathlons in the leadup to Yungaburra.

Excluding last year’s event Megan has competed in every Yungaburra Triathlon since 2014, the first year of the triathlon.

Her racing year has already kicked off as she traveled down to Goondiwindi two weeks ago for a triathlon.

“I’m feeling good I’ve got another race between now and Yungaburra which is a same dis-

tance event,” she said.

“It’ll be nice to see where the body’s at about a month out from Yungaburra.

“For some the race is definitely daunting but if you’re up for a challenge it’s a sport worth having a crack at.”

With swimming currently being her strong suit, Megan has tailored her current training regime to focus on her least strong component, running.

This year’s race will be held on April 17 and 18 with eager athletes able to choose from either Junior, Enticer, Sprint or Standard categories.

For more information and how to register head to www.

Atherton set for CFN semi-final Rovers are Cricket Far North’s first grade minor premiers after the final round of the season was washed out on the weekend.

Mulgrave will host Atherton in this Saturday’s semifinal to decide who will move through to play Rovers in the March 6 grand final.

Atherton’s Paul Nasser took out this season’s batting aggregate and average gongs, scoring 515 runs at an average of 51.5 over the season.

yungaburratriathlon.org/ and start stretching those legs for April 17 and 18. Registrations close on April 9.

The Atherton Turf is excited to open its gates once again to racegoers as they get ready for their upcoming Saturday, March 6 race meet.

There will be kids’ entertainment, food, drinks and of course fashions on the field to enter on race day.

The club is gearing up and using these meets to get prepared for their massive Easter race in April.

Atherton Turf Club President Lloyd Weare is looking forward to the meet and is hoping that

Sign On

the weather will hold out for a good day of racing.

“We have got nothing totally specific, but it will be a good day out,” he said.

“All of these races lead up to June where we get into the second part of the year.

“The weather at this time of the year can make it hard to hold meets.”

It will be a five-race card on the day with up to $7,250 to be won by the best jockey on the day.

family, fun and fitness

Tableland Athletics

✆ Laura McLellan: 0406 245 089 Andrew Ford: 0427 954 729 F Facebook: Tableland Athletics Club Information Day: Sunday 28th February 9am to 10am Competition Starts: Sunday 7th March 2021 and continues each Sunday from 8.45am to 11.00am at Tolga Reserve.

For all ages from 4 years to any age, no limit.

Events include: Hurdles, Sprints, middle and long distance.

Throwing events: Discus, Shot put and Javelin.

Jumps: Long, Triple and High jump. ✆

Phone: (07) 3892 9400 or visit our website: laq.org.au

BOOK ONLINE NOW! fnqhub.com.au

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The Express, Wednesday, February 24, 2021 PAGE 43

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The Express, Wednesday, February 24, 2021 PAGE 44