The Express Newspaper 31st May 2023

Mystery surrounds the deliberate chopping down of mature trees on the banks of the Barron River near the John Doyle Bridge over the past few months. The trees have been illegally felled and left to rot, leaving authorities mystified as to why someone would chop them down.

Cr Lenore Wyatt and resident Gladys France near one of the trees that has been cut down illegally.

Nursing passion pays off

A LOCAL nurse with a passion for helping others and her community has been recognised for her efforts and been named the 2023 Mareeba Hospital Nurse of the Year.

Megan Wieland has spent 30 years as a nurse and always felt it was the right career for her as she “liked to help people.”

She begun working as a nurse at the Chillagoe Primary Health Centre 13 years ago after applying for the position of director of nursing, her commitment and passion for helping the small community resulted in her receiving the nurse of the year award during National Nurses Week recently.

The award covers health services and hospitals in Mareeba, Lotus Glen, Dimbulah and Chillagoe which all come under the Mareeba Hospital Banner.

Ms Wieland trained as an enrolled nurse in Mount Isa and did her nursing degree about seven years later. Being a Herberton local, she then decided to return to the region and work in Chillagoe.

“I have a passion for rural and remote nursing so I knew I always wanted to come back to a rural area,” she said.

“My time at Chillagoe has been super rewarding, it can be very challenging at times because in Chillagoe we work alone and we operate a hospital based ambulance as well.

Ms Wieland said some of the most difficult things about working in Chillagoe was the isolation however becoming such an integral part of the community was gratifying.

“The geographical and professional isolation is difficult, dealing with emergencies and only having myself to rely on,” she said.

“Waiting on help is another one, most patients that are really unwell we fly out so we are waiting on the RFDS who we work closely with. “The community are so grateful to have the service and have us working there, they are so supportive.

“You’re not just a nurse out there – you become the centre for everyone’s help.”

Ms Wieland said she was honoured to be named the Mareeba Nurse of the Year knowing there would have been some stiff competition.

“To be awarded nurse of the year when you work alone feels amazing,” she said.

“I was shocked and moved to tears.”

Ms Wieland is currently working on expanding her skillset and is looking to study a Master of Nursing which will enable her to become a nurse practitioner, further assisting her community.

Local news wins big

THE Express editorial team were recognised for excellence in journalism in Brisbane last week at the Queensland Country Press Association’s annual conference and awards, taking home four awards and presenting at the event.

This year, the team came first in Overall Journalistic Excellence, second in Best Free Publication, second in Best Online Publication, as well as cadet journalist Ellie Fink coming second in Young Journalist of the Year.

Managing director Carl Portella and Ms Fink flew down to Brisbane to take part in the annual event which was officially opened by Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk on Friday.

Throughout the day, many journalist, advertisers and associated bodies spoke on a variety of topics, including Ms Fink who spoke about the upcoming generation of journalists and her time with The Express.

Later in the evening during the awards, The Express took home four awards which Mr Portella said was a testimony to the hard work his team had put into delivering the news that matters.

“Receiving these awards really validates what we do as a local independent news brand and how important it is to our readers,” he said.

“We are a small team, but we pride ourselves in delivering quality news, advocating for our region and celebrating its uniqueness.”

Judge for the Overall Journalistic Team Excellence Award, Peter Owen, commended The Express for focusing on the people stories and avoiding the doom and gloom, putting a positive light on the region.

“Excellent coverage of local news, with a

consistent focus on telling peoples stories, rather than relying on dull, institutional reporting,” he said.

“Stories are well written, generally of appropriate size for the subject matter, and the tactic of running shorter stories allows for a far more comprehensive coverage of local issues.

“There are excellent sections on agriculture and property, and a healthy mix of community yarns and breaking news.”

In the young journalist category, judges Kristy Hess and Alison McAdam said Ms Fink’s editorial entries showed her creativity and adoptability.

“The breadth of stories in Ellie’s entry was impressive, and suggests she has both a high level of creativity and adaptability,” the panel said.

Chillagoe Primary Health Centre director of nursing Megan Wieland with her 2023 Mareeba Hospital Nurse of the Year award.

The Express managing director Carl Portella and cadet journalist Ellie Fink receiving four awards at the 2023 QCPA awards.

Mystery surrounds vandalism

BY RHYS THOMAS

A ROGUE lumberjack has felled multiple mature-aged trees along the Barron River Esplanade near the John Doyle Bridge in Mareeba causing them to obstruct the waterway and restrict access to further parts of the waterfront.

Nearby resident Gladys France has heard about six trees being cut down over the past 8-12 months, with the most recent being just two weeks ago on Sunday - just days before paddlers from across the country competed in the Barron River Challenge, starting from the John Doyle Bridge.

The trees are being cut down for no apparent reason as they are being left where they fall and not being cut up for firewood.

The matter is now being investigated by Mareeba Shire Council.

Trees have been cut down on both the riverside, which is managed by the State Government, and on council land.

If a tree is on council land, the maximum penalty is $2,875 if taken to court or an on the spot fine of $287.

Ms France lives across the river from where the tree van-

dalism has occurred and said she could regularly hear it from her backyard.

“I don’t know why anyone would pick a Sunday afternoon to do this because there is always people down here – it is a busy area and I walk the dog down here every afternoon,” she said.

“The frequency has definitely increased.”

One of the recent trees that was cut down is stretched across the water and currently blocking over half the river while another has fallen across the road.

Mrs France raised concerns with Mareeba Shire Councillor Lenore Wyatt which has now sparked an investigation.

Cnr Wyatt said the big question was “why” someone cut down the trees and then leave them obstructing the waterway and further access to the esplanade.

“It is disappointing to see this and the question is why?

The tree is felled and then it is left and it restricts access to the recreational users who love to come down here,” she said. If anyone has any information contact council.

One of the trees that has been illegally felled across the road and (inset), the culprits tried an axe before turning to a chainsaw to chop down the trees.

Mareeba a hotspot for animal collisions

MAREEBA has been named as a hotspot for collisions with animals, with a national insurer releasing data showing the town is fifth in the State for wildlife-related accidents.

AAMI says latest research reveals that around half of Aussies have collided with a “roo” or other wildlife while driving, yet the vast majority (61 per cent) admit they would dangerously swerve or slam on the brakes to avoid hitting an animal.

The research also showed that one in seven drivers admit they have no clue what they would do if they were involved in an impact collision with wildlife, or would panic and freeze while behind the

wheel if they saw an animal on the road. Not surprisingly, collisions with animals are twice as likely to happen on rural roads (31 per cent) than suburban roads (15 per cent).

Dusk is the most dangerous time for wildlife related road accidents, with more than a quarter (26 per cent) of accidents taking place between the hours of 4.30pm and 8pm, while Saturday was the worst day of the week for animal collisions –with almost one third of accidents taking place over the weekend.

The most common animals Aussie drivers collide with are kangaroos and wallabies, wombats, dogs, deer and cows.

The top five hot spots for animal collisions in Queensland are St George, Townsville, Roma, Warwick and Mareeba.

AAMI head of motor claims Kahl Dwight says road accidents involving wildlife can be costly, with the average cost of an insurance claim between $5,500 and $6,400.

“Be extra vigilant particularly around dawn and dusk as this is when nocturnal animals are more active,” he said.

“Visibility also becomes poorer which makes it harder to see wildlife and reduces the time a driver has to react, increasing the risk of a collision.

Photographer named NQ’s best

DIMBULAH photographer Kaddeisha Leask has made her name known in the wedding industry, winning the Wedding Photographer Wedding Industry Award for Tropical and North Queensland.

Owner of Denim and Lace Photography, Ms Leask has been in the industry for just over a year, with wedding photography being her main medium. Tuning into the awards ceremony via a Zoom call whilst on a dinner date, she was thrilled to hear that she had won.

“I was very excited… I was out and dinner watching it over Zoom call and then they called my name and I got so excited,” she said.

“It was absolutely amazing to see my name up there amongst so many other amazing photographers.

“There are so many amazing photographers, especially in the Townsville area, that I have watched, and I was nervous going up against them at first.”

Ms Leask said she couldn’t wait to continue capturing special moments and expanding her small business.

Money rolls in for damaged roads

MORE than $3 million in contracts were awarded last week, allowing Mareeba Shire Council to repair roads damaged from a natural disaster early last year.

Council receives funding from the Queensland Reconstruction Authority, but the money takes a long time to be provided to the council, with roads throughout the shire listed for repair damaged in a “declared” natural disaster that happened 1-7 February last year. Council awarded four contracts - $548,170 for western roads, $936,185 for Dimbulah roads, $786,416 for mid-western roads, and

Dancers dazzle on eisteddfod stage

A TEAM of local dancers from in2Dance studios Atherton have dazzled the Innisfail Eisteddfod stage recently, with many coming home with new trophies for the cabinet.

$836,726 for eastern roads.

Mareeba Mayor Angela Toppin said it was critical to repair the roads which were part of a core transport network.

“Council would like to thank the State Government for the funding received and their support will be used to bring the above-mentioned roads back to pre-existing conditions and to meet current engineering standards.

“Works include the reinstatement of carriageway and shoulders and associated stormwater infrastructure on various roads.”

Do your family a favour.

The in2Dance senior competition team has been competing together since 2018, participating in both the senior jazz troupe and senior contemporary troupe sections, securing third place in each category.

Principal Lorraine Peressini said she was proud of her students’ efforts and hopes they will use their experiences at the eisteddfod as a team as they enter adulthood.

“Working as a team is a different mindset compared to being a soloist. In real life, adults know that we have to be part of a team at work,” she said.

“Even if you have aspirations to be a professional dancer, you have to be part of a team before being chosen as a soloist. It’s an important step in a young dancer’s journey.”

Students also competed in solos and duos, with Sophia performing a ballet solo, and Breanna, Gianna, and Myla showcasing themselves with contemporary and jazz solos.

Lara and Sienna performed an interpretation of “The Special Two” while Lilly excelled with highly commended, very highly commended, and third place in tap, contemporary, lyrical, and jazz solos. Tarris, the only male competitor from in2Dance, was awarded very highly commended in senior classical and demi-character solos.

Topping off the competition was Madison,

who delivered a lyrical solo that received a highly commended, came third in her contemporary solo, first in her tap solo, and first in her jazz solo.

She was also named Senior Modern Champion (14 to 18 years), Most Promising Modern dancer, and received the Highest Scoring Routine for her championship jazz routine on the final night.

All dancers were congratulated for their efforts.

Zoe and Zach captured by Kaddeisha Leask on their wedding day.

Students from in2Dance Atherton competing at the recent Innisfail Eisteddfod.

Student Madison went above and beyond, being name Senior Modern Champion Most Promising Modern dancer and Highest Scoring Routine for her championship jazz routine.

Warning over Facebook scam

BY RHYS THOMAS

LOCAL business NQ Trucks

Wreckers is warning people to be wary of Facebook scammers after someone made a copy of their Facebook page and ripped people off thousands of dollars.

NQ Truck Wreckers is a family-owned business that has operated in Mareeba for two decades and say they have never advertised parts for sale or anything of the like on their Facebook page. Any inquiries about parts

are through their website, www. nqtruckwreckers.com.au.

The fake page is named NQ Truck & 4WD Wreckers and contains images taken from the real NQ Truck Wreckers and other areas, several posts had numerous comments that were all hidden and the posts themselves have since been deleted.

NQ Truck Wreckers co-owner Jodi Aiston said they get a call a day from people asking after parts and she says roughly 50 per cent of them have already paid.

Ms Aiston said she first became aware of the scam in March when a customer called asking after parts that were supposed to be delivered to him.

“He then mentioned Facebook and we don’t market on Facebook at all so that is when we first figured out it was a scam,” she said.

“That was in the middle of March and basically someone has created a Facebook page, taken stock directly from our website and were using that to

Search on for Rodeo queens

MAREEBA Rodeo season is just around the corner, and the committee is on the hunt for rodeo queen entrants for the 2023 quest.

The annual quest attracts young women aged between 16 and 25 from across the Mareeba region to compete for the title of Mareeba Rodeo queen, princess, and miss personality.

Entrants will be judged on the qualities needed to be the right rodeo ambassador throughout their public engagement during rodeo week.

Mareeba District Rodeo Association secretary Angela Slabbert said queen entrants would have many opportunities to learn and grow as young women. From learning to present themselves in front of members of the community to learning the basics of hair and skincare, entrants would be exposed to many aspects of becoming an ambassador.

“This is the 63rd year of the queen competition, giving our entrants a chance to represent themselves, their sponsors, the rodeo, and the

community,” she said.

“The competition is a great way for entrants to meet new people, grow in confidence, have fun, and learn many new things.

“They will attend workshops in skincare, makeup, nails, hair, and deportment.”

Entrants will be introduced at the junior cowpokes on Saturday 1 July, and will attend events such as the rodeo ball on 8 July, the garden awards on 7 July, and the downtown parade on 14 July. Official judging will take place on Sunday 9 July.

Last year’s queen, Maia Gambino, said being a part of the quest was an incredible opportunity for her.

“I encourage the young women of Mareeba to get involved in this wonderful community event,” she said. “The competition is a great experience to step out of your comfort zone, make new friends, and learn more about yourself.”

To apply and for more information, visit www. mareebarodeo.com.au/applications.

advertise.

“Everybody has been really good, no one has really abused us or anything.”

Ms Aiston immediately lodged a report with Cyber.gov. au and the Queensland Police were soon onto the case.

After a brief investigation and tracking of scammer’s bank details, they were traced back to New South Wales and Queensland Police were then forced to put the matter in the hands of their NSW counterparts.

The last correspondence Ms Aiston had with Cyber.gov. au and Queensland Police was on 17 April. She has contacted NSW Police and has not yet received a response.

Ms Aiston has also reported the page multiple times to Facebook but it remains active so in the meantime, she is imploring people to check carefully when purchasing things through Facebook and to contact NQ Truck Wreckers directly on 0414 666 776 or through their website to inquire about parts.

At her wits end, she contacted Member for Kennedy Bob Katter whose office escalated the issue to the cyber security department under the Home Affairs

Minister, who would send it onto the Facebook’s Care of Government Relations contact.

Here are three simple steps you can follow if you believe you have been a victim of a scam.

1. Contact your bank. Contact your financial institution if you think your credit cards or bank account may be at risk. They may be able to close your account or stop a transaction.

2. Refer to Scamwatch. If you get a scam message or phone call, you should ignore it and report it to ACCC’sScamwatch.

3. Reporta cybercrimeor security incident onReportCyber.

NQ Truck Wreckers dismantler Andrew Garrett.

Mareeba Mazda named master dealer

MAREEBA Mazda has been named Mazda’s Master Dealer for 2022 for the eighth time in a row, with many staff members also taking out wins in the rural category.

The Mazda Guild Awards is an annual event that recognises the top performing Mazda dealerships in Australia.

Mareeba Mazda is no stranger to the awards, with 2022 being the eighth year in a row being recognised in the rural category, which had over 50 entries.

As well as being awarded Master Dealer, staff members Peter Acha took home the Sales Manager Guild, Mike Sheppard was awarded Service Manager Guild, the Parts Manager Guild went to Robert Quintieri, Adrian Madrid took home the Sales Guild and Allie Della Bosca and Micko Van Der Vyver received the Service Adviser Guild.

Principal dealer David Mete said it was an honour to be recognised once again and congratulated his team for all their efforts.

“To be a master dealer you have to tick so many boxes and so many different KPIs (key performance indicator) and each individual has ticked those off,” he said.

“I am really proud of them for that.”

Mental health booklet targets rural centres

AS one in five rural and regional Australians experience mental illness, a resource dedicated entirely to primary producers has been launched in Queensland.

In an Australian-first, “Mental Health on the Land” was produced by The Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS) and is available for free to those living in regional Queensland thanks to funding from Thankful4Farmers.

Developed by expert clinicians, the book offers practical mental health and wellbeing information to help those facing natural disasters, droughts, financial stress and geographic isolation and reduces the barriers for seeking assistance.

It includes information on stress management, coping strategies, and seeking help when needed, as well as providing tips on how to stay connected with others, even when physical distance is a challenge.

RFDS Queensland delivers more than 12,100 mental health consultations annually and has the largest mental health service of RFDS sections across Australia with clinicians operating in areas as remote as Lockhart River in Cape York and all the way to Camooweal on the Northern Territory Border.

Royal Flying Doctor Service Queensland CEO Meredith Staib said “Mental Health on the Land” had been written specifically to support the mental health and wellbeing of people living on the land in addition to consultations and services.

“People living in rural and remote locations face the same mental health challenges as those in other parts of Australia – such as relationship issues, finance problems and work pressures. But they have added pressures with stress caused by the environment and natural disasters, isolation and working very

long hours,” she said.

“Sadly, the mental health and wellbeing of people living in regional and rural Queensland can be overlooked due to their remoteness and lack of access to appropriate services.

“Through ‘Mental Health on the Land’, they can learn about coping with stress, keeping relationships healthy and dealing with difficult times on the land, as well as navigating serious mental health concerns.”

“We are enormously grateful to Thankful4Farmers, who generously provided a grant to fund the creation of the ‘Mental health on the Land’ book. We believe this book will provide lifesaving, practical support to many rural people and the entire community across Queensland for years to come.”

Thankful4Farmers CEO, Kim McDonnell said the organisation was proud to provide the grant funding to the RFDS to develop and distribute the resource.

“Mental health and wellbeing needs to be a regular topic of discussion in rural and regional Queensland. It’s not just during times of adversity, such as, natural disasters or droughts, that we need to be thinking about mental health,” she said.

“We need to create more opportunities for people to have open and honest conversations about mental health, regardless of their age, gender, or background.

“The health and wellbeing of primary producers is a top priority for us. We want these people to be able to easily access information when things are getting too much for them. The book provides this, as well as, what to do if you or someone you know is in crisis.”

Mareeba Mazda award winners: Salesmen Adrian Madrid, service advisor Allie Dalla Bosca, sales manager Peter Acha, dealership principal David Mete, service manager Mike Sheppard and parts manager Robert Quintieri. Absent: Service adviser Micko Van Der Vyver.

Both sides of The Voice debate

LOCALS will have to decide at a referendum later this year whether to support or reject the Voice proposal to change the Australian Constitution to reflect greater say for indigenous peoples. The Express asked both sides of the debate to give our readers their views on why we should, or should not, support the proposed changes.

The “ NO” side Coalition’s

Indigenous Australians spokeswoman Senator Jacinta

Nampijinpa Price

Why should people vote no at the Voice to Parliament referendum?

Australians should say no to being divided by race in our constitution.

This massive change would divide Australians along the lines of race. Based on nothing more than heritage, it would give one group of Australians an extra say on government policy.

What will be the downside if the referendum is successful?

Even pro-Voice legal experts have warned that if a Yes vote is successful, the Voice body would have broad reach to insert itself into any issue it deems is relevant and challenge decisions it doesn’t agree with in the High Court. As one Voice advocate put it – “You won’t shut the Indigenous Voice to parliament up.”

The thrust of the advertisement featuring Senator Price states that the referendum will divide us. Do you mean it will divide Australia or indigenous people and families?

My family is a blended one and not all of us have Aboriginal ancestry. This huge change to the constitution would mean that we don’t all have the same rights before the law.

Some of us would be deemed in need of an extra say on government policy based on nothing more than our racial background. It’s the same across the country, Australians will be divided based on nothing more than race.

If the Voice to Parliament is not the way to go,how should governments engage with indigenous communities and people to ensure they feel they have a real say in future programs and decisions etc?

We need to lose this belief that all Indigenous Australians are facing the same challenges and issues and focus in on the areas where real

disadvantage exists.

It is incumbent upon our democratically elected representatives to do more to represent their communities. We need a forensic audit to be conducted into the current organisations, set reasonable outcome targets, and hold them accountable.

Final comments?

There is a growing gap between Indigenous Australians who live in the cities and those living in remote and very remote Australia. They’re facing different issues, different challenges, and different struggles.

The best way to help them is not to focus on a single entity in Canberra, but to work within the extensive framework of existing organisations already in communities to ensure local solutions and, very importantly, hold those organisations to account to ensure they’re delivering the outcomes they’re meant to.

Referedum boosts enrolments

THE Voice to Parliament referendum scheduled for later this year has been cited as a factor in a large increase in electoral enrolments.

The Australian Electoral Commission has revealed that the nation’s electoral roll has grown by another 75,000 people in the first quarter of 2023.

Electoral Commissioner Tom Rogers said that as of 31 March 2023 a total of 17,446,514 people were enrolled to vote.

“Australia’s enrolment sits at an estimated 97.2 per cent complete ahead of the referendum with further growth expected in the

coming months,” he said.

“Importantly, the number of people estimated to be unenrolled has dropped in the first quarter of 2023 by another 11,350 –from 513,000 at the end of 2022 to approximately 502,000 now.

“Since the start of the year we’ve processed more than a million enrolment transactions – a combination of new enrolments and updates through direct enrolment, prompted by AEC communication and engagement activities as well as other societal motivations.”

The “ YES ” side Uluṟu Dialogue representative for the FNQ Voice campaign, Alwyn Lyall (Kuku Yalanji elder)

Why do we need to support the First Nations Voice?

Australians should support the Voice because it will improve the lives of First Peoples. If we have a seat at the table and input in the discussions about the laws and policies which affect us, what you will get are better laws, policies and outcomes for First Peoples. We know one thing for certain: the way things are right now are not working.

First Peoples have been calling for a Voice for generations. They called for it at the Regional Dialogues in 2017 and new polling from April 2023 shows 83 per cent of First Peoples support the Voice … We cannot ignore these calls. What would you say to those who have the view that everyone already has a voice to Parliament insofar that we all have a vote?

First Peoples make up around three per cent of the Australian population. This means it’s difficult for our voices to be heard in elections or to have much say about decisions that are made in Canberra. The Voice is about giving Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people on the ground in communities around Australia a seat at the table when decisions are being made on policies that will impact our lives. This is the only way to get better decisions from Canberra and ultimately improve our lives.

Why will this approach work when numerous other organisations, departments and task forces funded by millions of dollars over the past three decades have not achieved better outcomes?

Numerous other organisations, departments and task forces funded by millions of dollars over the past three decades have not achieved better outcomes because they have largely excluded the voices of the people on the ground they have been designed to support. We know there is still a massive gap in health, education and many

other outcomes for First Nations People which demonstrates that the status quo is not working. The Voice is the best chance to make sure policies and resources coming from Canberra do actually make a difference on the ground in areas like far North Queensland.

What tangible outcomes will this have for First Peoples living in their communities?

The advice provided by the Voice will mean the government is getting the best information from the ground to create better laws and policies which will result in better outcomes across the board on matters such as health, housing, criminal justice and education.

What do you fear will happen (or not happen) in the event that the referendum is unsuccessful?

We have faith that the Australian population will seize the opportunity to walk with us towards a brighter future and will support the yes vote at referendum.

Exactly what we’re voting on

The question to be put to the Australian people at the 2023 referendum will be:

“A Proposed Law: to alter the Constitution to recognise the First Peoples of Australia by establishing an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice. Do you approve this proposed alteration?”

The proposed law that Australians are being asked to approve at the referendum would insert a new section into the Constitution:

“Chapter IX Recognition of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples 129 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice:

“In recognition of Aboriginal and Torres Strait

Islander peoples as the First Peoples of Australia:

1. There shall be a body, to be called the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice;

2. The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice may make representations to the Parliament and the Executive Government of the Commonwealth on matters relating to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples;

3. The Parliament shall, subject to this Constitution, have power to make laws with respect to matters relating to the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice, including its composition, functions, powers and procedures.”

St Joseph’s set to celebrate century of education

FOR the past 100 years, St Joseph’s Parish in Atherton has been educating the youngest minds of the Atherton community and will be celebrating this milestone in September.

On 29 January 1932, the school bell rang for the very first time at St Joeys after the Parish Priest of Herberton Fr PB Doyle OSA identified the need for a school in Atherton.

Staffed by the Sisters of Mercy in Herberton, the school hosted 43 students in the early years.

One of the Sisters, Sister Mary Finbarr wrote about her experiences working at St Joey’s during the wet season, recalling a lot of red mud.

“Atherton was full of horse drawn carts bringing the maize in the season. We had our own horse paddock for the children’s ponies,” she said.

“The mud was everywhere, and

there we were with our long black habits swishing in the mud. Twice I slipped and fell full length and was plastered with red mud from head to toe.”

St Joeys continued to educate children from around the Tablelands under the direction of the Sisters of Mercy until 1986 when the first lay person became the Principal of the school.

The school has continued to grow in the location of the corner of Jack and Alice streets, with 260 students enrolled today.

To celebrate the centenary, the Centenary Committee is hosting a dinner on Saturday 16 September at the Atherton International Club with past and present staff and students invited to attend.

On Sunday 17 September, centenary celebrations will continue with a special mass to be celebrated in St Jo-

seph’s Church.

This will be followed by the official cake cutting, roll calls for each decade and tours of the school and a display of historical items open for viewing and centenary merchandise for purchase.

Food and refreshments will be available for morning tea and lunch.

This will be followed by entertainment from the school choir, who will sing songs from over the century.

The Centenary Committee is currently seeking old photos, stories and memories, particularly from 1923 to 1970, from anyone involved in the school community past or present.

They are also on a search for the oldest living past student to cut the cake alongside their youngest prep student.

Any content can be emailed directly to secretary.atherton@cns.catholic. edu.au

Lions founding father’s service recognised

ONE of the founding fathers of the Yungaburra Lions, Spencer Digby, has been recognised his half a century of service to Lions and was awarded a special commendation at a recent surprise ceremony.

Spencer moved to the Tablelands with his wife and two daughters in 1969 and joined up with the Malanda Lions Club a few years later in 1972 as he wanted to help in his new community.

He then spent 13 years as a member and held several committee positions including secretary and president.

After the call was put out for a Lions Club to be established in Yungaburra, Spencer and his close friend Russel Prior, charted the group in 1985.

“We lived in the Yungaburra district together and there was no Lions Club there back then,” he said.

“In those days you had to be invited to become a member and I was lucky enough to receive an invitation.

“They wanted to start up a Lions Club in Yungaburra, so we started the club and stayed in the district.”

As one of the founding members of the Yungaburra Lions, Spencer held the position of president for a few years before stepping down.

In February last year, Spencer celebrated 50 years of service to Lions International however when he rung up to inquire about the process of recognising lions for their years of service, he was shocked to discover they had no record of his involvement.

Thinking nothing of it, he quietly mentioned he had spent half a century volunteering for Lions and servicing his community not knowing that plans were being set in motion to thank him for his selflessness.

Just recently Spencer was surprised with a special plaque to recognise his service, his two daughters even flew up from Townsville, which Spencer said was a lovely surprise.

Students from St Joseph’s School Atherton circa 1920.

Yungaburra Lions founder Spencer Digby with his 50 years of service award.

Price sweetens as sugar crush roars into life

The 2023 sugarcane crush is officially underway, with harvesters roaring into life across the Mareeba Shire and Atherton Tablelands this week as growers, harvesting crews and mill workers start the race to get Queensland’s 30 million tonnes of cane cut and crushed by the end of November.

“The weather is pretty spectacular at the minute. We have blue skies and cool temperatures, so perfect weather for harvesting,” Canegrowers Tableland chairman Claude Santucci said.

“We had a bit of a cold snap come through a few days ago, so that will help push up the sugar content a bit, although it will be a while before we start getting decent levels.

“The early cut cane from last year is looking really nice…if we can keep this weather and the mill has a good run, I’m hopeful we can have a pretty good 2023 season.”

Tully Mill is expected to be the next cab off the rank when it fires up later this week, with the remainder of Queensland’s 19 sugar mills coming online over the coming weeks.

Latest estimates put the crop at 30.55 million tonnes of cane, producing between 4-4.5 million tonnes of sugar, the majority of which will be exported to overseas markets in Japan, South Korea, and Indonesia.

With the world sugar price hitting record highs and forecasters predicting a drier winter this year, growers are optimistic that 2023 could be a bumper year for the industry, according to Canegrowers chairman Owen Menkens.

“Last year we were pretty optimistic going into the crush, with prices on the up and a great crop in the paddock, but unfortunately things didn’t pan out the way we wanted,” he said.

“Poor weather, workforce shortages, and poor mill performance in some areas combined to cause major disruptions that ultimately led to the crush running through Christmas and well into the new year in some districts, and around one million tonnes of cane left unharvested.”

Mr Menkens said there was a very positive feeling around the industry at the minute, with the industry on the verge of a transition to a range of new and growing opportunities in the bioeconomy that relied upon sugarcane for feedstock.

“The export of raw sugar will always be the foundation of our industry, but we know there are many other complimentary opportunities that are emerging for the industry,” he said.

“We hope that this coming season, combined with a strong price, will provide the basis for new and increased investment into these exciting projects.”

Mareeba sugarcane farmer Trevor Adil has been growing commercial sugarcane since it was first planted in Mareeba in 1989 and said he has never seen prices as high as they are today.

“It has been a long time coming,” he said.

Mr Adil said many farmers forward priced their cane during the recent upswing, before the peak, wanting to sell their cane for around $600 to $650 per tonne.

“There have been previous spikes but when we talk about that, we are talking about a spike in the margin,” he said.

“Twenty years ago, $500 a tonne was a great price because the growing costs were so much lower.”

New hospital opening delayed

THE opening of the new Atherton Hospital, scheduled for Wednesday, has been deferred after Queensland Health revealed on Friday that water testing had detected elevated levels of lead.

Cairns and Hinterland Hospital Service (CHHHS) chief executive Leena Singh said staff and patients at both the Atherton and Yarrabah facilities were being given bottled water, and current and former staff would be offered free and voluntary blood testing.

She said elevated lead levels at Atherton Hospital were initially detected in the new Clinical Services Building, which meant the opening date would be rescheduled.

“Patients and staff will only move into the new Clinical Services Building after rectification works and testing confirm that the water meets Australian drinking water guidelines,” she said.

“Importantly, there will be no impact on the delivery of clinical services from rescheduling the opening of the building.

“The health advice is that there is no risk to patients or visitors at our facilities, and we en-

courage people to still come to our hospital if they need medical assistance.”

Ms Singh said health advice was that there was a low risk of exposure to lead at both sites and the measures being taken were an appropriate precaution.

She said investigations were ongoing to determine the sources of the contamination and to determine if any necessary rectification works needed to be carried out.

“I understand the detection of elevated lead levels may cause concern, but I want to assure our staff and patients at Atherton and Yarrabah that CHHHS is taking extensive measures to limit potential contamination and protect people’s health and wellbeing,” Ms Singh said.

“Expert toxicology advice is that there is a low risk of exposure to lead at both facilities, but it is much better to cautious than complacent.

“Blood testing is not currently necessary for patients or visitors at either facility, given that longer-term exposure to lead is required for poisoning to occur. However, anyone with concerns should speak with their local GP.”

Product of Australia

Product of Australia

Mareeba sugarcane farmer Trevor Adil is excited about the current prices for sugar as the annual sugar cane crush season begins in the region.

Upskilling young workers

LOCAL labour shortages are being addressed thanks to a pilot program run by Vocational Partnerships Group (VPG) that equips young jobseekers with in-demand skills.

The program is funded by the Queensland Government’s Skilling Queenslanders for Work initiative and it is making a positive impact on communities across the Tablelands, Mareeba, and Cairns.

VPG, a community-based not-for-profit organisation, is at the forefront of the initiative and is providing purpose-built skills and employability training to the next generation of workers.

The young workers complete a Certificate III in Rural Operations which gives them the foundational skills necessary to pursue careers across multiple sectors experiencing labour shortages.

VPG’s Chief Executive Officer Maryanne Tranter said the program has been a “gamechanger” for young people in the region as it offers real-world opportunities to enhance employability skills and build professional networks.

“The program has generated solid employment outcomes, demonstrating the importance of investing in local youth to overcome challenges associated with youth unemployment,” she said.

“Young people are reaping the benefits from real-world learning experiences through industry visits and work placements.

“These opportunities not only broaden their career horizons, but also provide a powerful platform for local employers to promote job openings and identify potential employees.

“We are grateful for the generous support of the local business community, who are investing in the development of our young people as they prepare to transition into the workforce.”

The program has supported 66 young jobseekers in the past 12 months, with many success stories emerging.

17-year-old Naomi Godfrey from Malanda recently completed the program and secured employment as a Trade Assistant at Eclipse Fabrication, after a successful week of work experience.

“The program has given me such a good head

Major milestone for brave Sebby

LOCAL “boy of steel” Sebastian (Sebby) Leonardi has completed 68 weeks of chemotherapy treatment for brain cancer after the little champion was diagnosed in 2020.

Children’s Hospital in Brisbane, with trips every 12 weeks for scans, chemotherapy, and other medical appointments.

Fabrication thanks to a new program run by VPG.

start on my career. It helped me get my foot in the door so I can prove how much I really want this, and can do this,” Naomi said.

There are hopes that after completing her time as a trades assistant, Naomi will sign up for a metal fabrication apprenticeship.

For further information about VPG and the program, visit www.vpginc.com.au or phone 07 4091 6411.

Since his diagnosis, Sebby has been fighting hard to keep his tumour at bay, undergoing treatment at the Cairns Paediatric Oncology Unit, he sat in the “big purple chair” every week since January 2022.

Sebastian is now five years old and has been fighting against his diagnosis for three and a half years.

Never missing a week and braving treatment despite having emergency brain surgery and commencing prep, both in January this year, there’s no doubt Sebby is one determined little boy.

This second round of treatment has been closely monitored by his team at Queensland

“Now, we watch and wait, keeping an eye on his clinical status and regular MRIs will ensure Sebby is safe and the tumour remains stable,” mum Crystal said.

Over the next few months, Sebby will continue at Prep in Julatten, hopefully feeling less fatigued now that chemotherapy has ceased.

Crystal has recently joined forces with JCU Cairns to help educate medical and psychology students about childhood cancer diagnosis’s impact on families.

Her book, “Boy of Steel” is donated to four JCU campuses in Queensland, funded by the fundraising campaign “Book Angels”. To find out more, head to www.crystalleonardi.com. All donations are accepted.

17-year-old Naomi Godfrey from Malanda has recently landed a job at Eclipse

Sebastian Leonardi celebrates the completion of 68 weeks of chemotherapy treatment, surrounded Brisbane Children’s Hospital staff.

New rules halt gravel supply to repair road

A BADLY washed-out section of the Burke Development Road west of Chillagoe may not be able to be repaired this year because Mareeba Shire Council cannot source gravel from a nearby quarry.

The council only heard of the dilemma at its recent meeting when Deputy Mayor Kevin Davies asked a question as to when the 5km section of the BDR would be re-sheeted.

Works manager Andrew Foster advised “some rules arrived” which required the gravel supplier, who has been operating for some time, to provide an Indigenous Land Use Agreement (ILUA) to the State before any more material can be removed from the pit.

ILUAs may include monetary compensation (lump sum, distributed or royalties), employment and training provisions, cultural heritage components, contracting opportunities and environmental preservation and rehabilitation. The agreements are aimed at getting consent from those who hold Native Title over the land and have the same status as a legal contract.

“What has occurred there is the gravel supplier has now been asked to provide an indigenous land use agreement over their registered pit,” Mr Foster told the meeting.

“Despite operating for some time, he now has to provide this ILUA before he can take any material out of the pit.”

Infrastructure Services director Glenda Kirk said the ILUA would be required because the quarry was on State-controlled land.

“He has a quarry operator’s permit but this has been applied across the State. It’s not the only circumstance, particularly in those regional or remote areaswe’re finding they are basically unable to supply until they have the ILUA in place,” she said.

Cr Lenore Wyatt said the situation could “cripple our road program”.

“So, that’s put a choke hold on anything really happening,” she said.

Mr Foster advised council could still do its resheeting in areas where material was available from other quarries such as the Herberton-Petford Road, with gravel being sourced from the Wongabel quarry.

“But we can’t proceed with the re-sheeting near Highbury (Station) until there’s a determination,” he said.

Describing the situation as “ridiculous”, Cr Davies said there was “a big possibility it will not be done before the wet”.

He also noted that transporting the gravel from another quarry was not a solution, given the cost involved and was concerned about how the situation may continue to impact council if the operator did not choose to establish an ILUA.

“We would have to bring gravel from hundreds of kilometres away if he (the quarry operator) says ‘no don’t worry about it’,” he said.

“Coupled with that is the damage done to the roads by bringing the material in - you may be repairing one part of the road and damaging other parts of the road,” Mr Foster replied.

Ms Kirk said the issue had blindsided council and the matter had been raised with the Department of Transport and Main Riads.

“We were not alerted to the issue until we commenced discussions with the quarry operator,” she said.

“This is something that happened very recently and without any warning to council or DTMR by the sounds of it.”

Generous bequest for refuge

DURING one of their hardest periods as an animal shelter, a bequest of $20,000 has been given to the Mareeba Animal Refuge by the late Margaret (Liz) Adomeit following her passing on 18 June 2021.

Ms Adomeit’s donation was one of many she made to local charities that work with animals.

Refuge manager Jennifer Walsh said she was beyond thankful for the generous donation, especially as surrendered and abandoned dogs continued to fill up the facility.

“She was obviously a great animal lov-

er, and we are so very grateful as we desperately need it,” she said.

“We were getting to another point where we were asking ‘what are we going to do’ so it is so welcomed by us.

“It’s just truly a wonderful thing to do and I think its so good that she thought of doing this before her passing and now her legacy will live on through this.”

Through her bequest, Ms Adomeit’s generosity will help many animals entering the refuge with their vet bills and with the purchasing of food and litter.

Sharp rise in illegal dumping

ILLEGAL dumping in the Mareeba Shire rose sharply during April, with councillors told a ute-load of rubbish was dumped at council’s recycled collection point in Arara Street.

Council recorded four tonnes of illegally

dumped waste in April, double the amountfrom the previous month. Local laws officers were able to identify the culprits through items in the rubbish and spoke to the property owner, advised them that if they were caught again, they would be fined.

Mareeba Animal Refuge manger Jennifer Walsh and staff member Felicity Pollard with two long term residents who will greatly benefit from a $20,000 bequest from the late Margaret (Liz) Adomeit.

“You’ll be surrounded by likeminded neighbours and an active village social scene.

Great location, Great People, Great Community

Set against the stunning backdrop of rolling mountains, Oak Tree Retirement Village Cairns is your tropical oasis and the perfect setting for a comfortable, relaxed retirement lifestyle.

The village is ideally located, surrounded by great local amenities that put all your shopping and daily needs within easy reach. Located just 15 minutes away is the heart of Cairns City where you can enjoy an abundance of shopping facilities, weekend markets, restaurants and cafes, or for the more adventurous, boating activities and day trips to the reef.

Although it’s just minutes from the city, here you’ll feel miles away, surrounded by nature and the peaceful sound of birds chirping.

You’ll have the Cairns Golf Course just 2 minutes down the road, and the Bruce Highway within close proximity, making travel a breeze. It’s also nearby to public transport, medical centres, hospitals, bowls clubs, and much more.

The village o ers a competitive price point with two bedroom villas selling from just $405,000, each with single lock up garages and private outdoor decks, many enjoying mountain views.

Without having to mow the lawn or upkeep the family home anymore, our residents can enjoy a carefree lifestyle with more time for family, hobbies, travel, or simply relaxing and enjoying your hard-earned freedom. Here, you have the freedom to live life on your own terms, whether that means starting a new chapter, or continuing with your current lifestyle, but with added convenience, reduced maintenance responsibilities, and the assurance of having neighbours at the same stage of life.

Feel free to come and go as you please or lock up and go on a trip, having peace of mind that your home will be taken care of in your absence.

You’ll be surrounded by likeminded neighbours and an active village social scene, providing you with endless opportunities to try new things and create new memories.

There’s never been a better time to make the move to Oak Tree Cairns and start your next chapter.

Tour the village and walk through a villa today to see if you could envisage your future here.

Free talk on the amazing Spectacled Flying-fox

A FREE talk revolving around the Spectacled Flying Fox, a tropical rainforest specialist and keystone species, will be held at the Malanda Hotel on Thursday.

The animal is crucial to the survival and evolution of our Wet Tropics rainforests, but, unfortunately, is also endangered.

Flying mammals with a sociable lifestyle, flying foxes are important for pollination and fruit dispersal and have suffered a dramatic decline because of habitat loss, cyclones and persecution.

Between 2004 and 2017 the population plummeted from 326,000 down to 78,000. In 2018, another 23,000 individuals died in a single heat-stress

Pink cockatoo now endangered

BY PETER VALENTINE

AUSTRALIA is often called the land of parrots, with good reason, and that is especially so if we consider the cockatoos.

Of the twenty one species 14 occur only in Australia and the remainder on nearby islands of Indonesia and New Guinea.

One of the most colourful of these is the Pink Cockatoo, a distinctive highly noticeable species that is sparsely distributed across arid and semi-arid Australia, occurring in each mainland state.

The pink plumage stands out, especially the bright underwings as they fly, but also the erectile crest that is used to communicate.

Concern has been expressed about the declining population and in a recent announcement by the Australian Environment Minister, the threatened status of the Pink Cockatoo is now considered endangered, reflecting the severe decline in reporting over recent decades – a drop of some 70 per cent.

The focus of concern is the eastern subspecies that occurs in small parts of inland Queensland, South Australia, Victoria and New South Wales.

There is no doubt this is a much loved bird and it is always remarked upon when seen due to its gorgeous beauty and flamboyant crest.

Like most Australian threatened species, the population declines are a result of habitat loss, but in the case of this species (and some others) there is a critical loss of breeding hollows. This situation is a little complex due to compounding factors.

First, for a tree to develop hollows it must live a long time (few have hollows before they reach 80-100 years old).

Then an appropriate event must occur to facilitate the creation of a hollow, often fire or disease related.

Eventually the hollows become suitable for nest sites and are much valued by many species.

Competition for the surviving hollows has increased, including from introduced species such as feral bees.

But in modern Australia, an additional challenge is the failed recruitment of new replacement

trees of suitable age.

This is because of destructive land use practices that halt regeneration of the trees, such as grazing animals, introduced pests and inappropriate fire regimes.

Pink Cockatoos occur mainly in open woodlands of arid or semi-arid environments, especially with mulga and other wattle shrubs, mallee, cypress pine and casuarina.

They feed on seeds of trees and shrubs, sometimes eat insect larvae and in places have been seen eating fruit and seeds from introduced weed species.

Always sparse and usually seen in small parties pf two or three, the Pink Cockatoo is now even more scarcely seen.

What can be done? If this is not to be yet another example of recognizing the demise of a species without doing anything about it, as seems to be the case for many, a Recovery Plan needs to be developed and then funded.

With so many state governments and the national government involved it sounds like it should be easy.

Sadly, very few new Recovery Plans are being made and much less action is occurring in the face of the major increases in threats.

Habitat management is a really big issue as most of the habitat is outside protected areas on private lands, usually used for sheep and cattle grazing.

Locally it is possible to create artificial nest hollows that may be suitable for these magnificent cockatoos but the land management practices need to be adapted to support natural processes that sometimes take many centuries, well beyond the interest of most private organisations.

Indigenous Protected Areas offer a likely long term solution, as do not-for-profit conservation groups like Bush Heritage and the Australian Wildlife Conservancy.

Dedicated National Parks can also assist but today these are poorly funded and lack appropriate staff.

While adding the Pink Cockatoo to the list of Endangered Species is a first step of recognition, more importantly it will take action not words to save the species and for that we await a well-funded recovery plan.

event in Cairns, the second largest flying-fox mass death event recorded and never seen before in this species.

With the return of El Nino weather conditions ahead, there are grave fears for the Wet Tropics population.

Dr Noel Preece has been studying this species for many years and will share the most current knowledge about their biology and ecology and discuss concerns and actions necessary to help the species survive at the talk.

The event will be held from 7.30pm on Thursday, 8 June at the Malanda Hotel. The Tree Kangaroo and Mammal Group is hosting the talk and is keen to see better knowledge shared about this endemic species.

The Spectacled Flying Fox will be the subject of a free talk to be held in Malanda on Thursday.

Councillor Update

Mareeba Shire Councillor Mario Mlikota

I am pleased to provide an update to residents and ratepayers on some of the latest news from Council.

Parks & Open Spaces

Action Plan Update

The Parks & Open Spaces

Action Plan was developed in consideration of the community feedback received through the Parks & Open Spaces Survey that was conducted in 2020/2021, as well as a full review of all Council-controlled parks and open spaces and requests that had been received by customers in recent years.

The following projects have recently been completed under the three-year Action Plan:

• The Mareeba Rail Trail Re-sheet

• Mareeba East (Amaroo)

Playground

• Kuranda Centenary Park

• Kuranda Walking Network Plan

Future projects include the upgrading of the Dimbulah Heritage Park with the addition of a pump track and a fence, upgrades to the play equipment at the Bill Newburn Park in Irvinebank and an overall enhancement of the Bicentennial Lakes in Mareeba at no additional cost to ratepayers. This was

a critical factor for Council - to provide a financially sustainable plan that will revitalise our parks and open spaces.

I encourage all residents to take a look at Council’s website or Facebook page where we will continue to share regular updates on these important projects.

Volunteerism in the Shire

Council celebrated National Volunteer Week in the month of May, and I would like to extend a special note of thanks to our wonderful volunteers in the communities throughout our shire.

Whether it is picking up rubbish, being a Committee Member or assisting on game day, your contribution is greatly valued and appreciated. Thank you for being a Change Maker!

Future Events

May saw the return of several events across the shire and I would like to commend the various Committees involved.

Events include the Great Wheelbarrow Race, Chillagoe Rodeo, FNQ Rotary Field Days and most recently the Dimbulah Lions Festival. Our shire is truly a remarkable place to live, work and play and it was wonderful to

welcome visitors to our slice of paradise.

Events coming up in the following months include Christmas in July, the Mareeba Multicultural Festival and Savannah in the Round. Information is available online and I encourage you to get out and support these events where possible.

In closing, I thank you for continuing to make a difference in your community and it is my hope that we can continue to support each other and to look for the positives each day.

Cr Mario Mlikota

Contact number: 0428 402 015

Postal address: PO Box 154 Mareeba

QLD 4880

Email: MarioM@msc.qld.gov.au

voice to parliament community information sessions

Hear about the Voice to Parliament from local community and have your questions answered.

Refreshments provided.

atherton Friday 2 June, 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm, Tablelands Regional Council Coordination Centre, 15 vernon Street Atherton

cooktown Tuesday 6 June, 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm, Cooktown Shire Hall, 42 Helen Street Cooktown

mossman Wednesday 7 June, 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm, Mossman Town Hall, Mill Street, Mossman Qld 4873 port douglas Thursday 8 June, 6:30 pm - 8:00 pm, Port Douglas Town Hall, 13-29 Mowbray Street, Port Douglas Qld 4877

kuranda Friday 9 June, 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm, Kuranda CWA Hall, 20 Thongon Street, Kuranda

innisfail Saturday 10 June, 10:00 am - 12:00 pm, Shire Hall Concert Hall, 70 Rankin Street Innisfail

For further information, please contact the FNQ Voice Team at voicefnq@gmail.com.

@ulurustatement

Brothers Zachary & Rueben Nicholson from Topaz

cattle

Thelma Linwood-Peebles, Linda Hoare from Mareeba on day 2 of the event

Mareeba locals Tamia Morrison, Belinda Frampton, Kristy Cullen enjoying the excitement of the Field Day.

The next generation of young farmers, Tom Kleemann from Herberton, Joseph & Kelly Muller from Millaa Millaa, Regan Bonadio from Kairi

Mark Atkinson from Mutchilba & David Nasser Atherton at the tractor pull

AROUND 15,000 people made their way to the Mareeba Rodeo Grounds last week for the biennial 2023 Rotary FNQ Field Days, one of the largest field days in the country.

Hundreds of exhibitors from across Queensland and interstate presented their business and products to attendees which ranged from tractors and farming equipment to cattle.

The “guess the weight of the bull” was a huge hit and raised over $2705 for the Royal Flying Doctors and the crowd-favourite tractor pull was a roaring success once again with more than 50 tractors taking it on.

Gail Barton was another familiar local face who graced the Mareeba Rodeo grounds on Wednesday

Kirsten, Jett, Maddie, Jack Stockman from Kairi

Rozie, Bobbi Bronwyn, Eddie Kendall from Cape York joined many who made the trip to attend for their first ever Field Day in Mareeba

Russ & Kim Walmsley with daughter Jhai and grand daughters Khensley & Steehley-Rae

More photos on The Express facebook page and online.

Father and son duo Adam Osborne & Francois Osborne from Mutchilba were one of the many local farming families to attend

Michael France, Sharrell France, Thomas Byrne, Kenton Byrne, Clint Tilse, Daley Tilse, James Richardson, Douglas Corter all Mareeba locals

Sharon Osborne from Mossman

On-Farm Beef Comp winners

THE results are in for the 2023 On-Farm Beef Cattle Competition run I conjunction with the Atherton Show, with the judge travelling around to six beef properties on the Tablelands on Saturday to decide the winners.

Judge Kurt Angus, from Hillside Droughtmasters, Charters Towers, commented that although the task of judging was difficult due to not being able to compare each exhibit side by side, he found the opportunity to have one-on-one conversations and see the farms first-hand was beneficial. Participating farms were Millstream

Springs Cattle Company, East Evelyn; Cherryburn Gelbvieh, Ravenshoe; Hayes Rural NQ – AK Brahams, Atherton; Beki Speckle Park, Kairi; Maple Downs Murray Greys, Malanda; and Kel-lee Droughtmasters, Upper Barron. Atherton Show event manager Kylie Lang congratulated all the competitors and winners and thanked sponsors Nutrien Ag Solutions, Tolga and Mareeba, Roc’s Stock Feed, and Out Bush Photography.

Each farm that competed now has the opportunity to hold an exhibition site at the Atherton Show to be held on 10-11 July.

SECTION 02 – STUD BEEF CATTLE ON FARM

COMPETITION

TROPICAL BREEDS

2051 Bull – 6 months & under 12 months

1st Kirsty Hayes

2nd Kirsty Hayes

Champion Calf Bull – On Farm Tropical Breeds

Kirsty Hayes

2052 Bull - 12 months & under 18 months

1st Mandie Scott - Alpha

2053 Bull - 18 months & under 24 months

1st Thomas Bewick - 2101

2nd Mandie Scott - Stalesman

Champion Junior Bull - On Farm Tropical Breeds

Thomas Bewick - 2101

2054 Bull - 24 months & over

1st Kirsty Hayes

2nd Kellie Williams - Kel-Lee A Jackpot

Champion Senior Bull - On Farm Tropical Breeds

Kirsty Hayes

Grand Champion Bull - On Farm Tropical Breeds

Adams,

Kirsty Hayes

2055 Female - 6 months & under 12 months

1st Mandie Scott - Miss Business Line

2nd Mandie Scott - Miss Something Special

Champion Calf Female - On Farm Tropical

Breeds Mandie Scott - Miss Business Line

2056 Female - 12 months & under 18 months

1st Kidd Family

2nd Kellie Williams - Kel-lee A Tasha

2057 Female - 18 months & under 24 months

1st Kellie Williams - Barron Valley Ruby

Champion Junior Female - On Farm Tropical Breeds Kidd Family

2058 Female - 24 months & over

1st Mandie Scott - Miss Hollywood

2nd Kellie Williams - Kel-lee A Ella

Champion Senior Female - On Farm Tropical

Breeds Mandie Scott - Miss Hollywood

Grand Champion Female - On Farm Tropical

Breeds Mandie Scott - Miss Business Line

Supreme Champion Female - On Farm Mandie

WEST FROM EINASLEIGH TO NORMANTON

Scott - Miss Hollywood

EUROPEAN & BRITISH BREEDS

2059 Bull - 6 months & under 12 months

1st Thomas Bewick - T98

2nd Thomas Bewick - T97

Champion Calf Bull - On Farm European & British Thomas Bewick - T98

2060 Bull - 12 months & under 18 months

1st Kidd Family

2nd EA & WJ Covers - BKI S02 - 1053

2062 Bull - 24 months & over

Grand Champion Bull - On Farm European & British Thomas Bewick - Cherryburn Gelbvieh

2063 Female - 6 months & under 12 months

1st Kidd Family

2064 Female - 12 months & under 18 months

1st Thomas Bewick - T94

2nd Thomas Bewick - T95

2065 Female - 18 months & under 24 months

1st Thomas Bewick - S93

2nd Kidd Family - S10

Champion Junior Female - On Farm European & British Thomas Bewick - S93

2066 Female - 24 months & over

1st Thomas Bewick - M4

2nd Thomas Bewick - S89

Champion Calf Female - On Farm European & British Kidd Family

Champion Senior Female - On Farm European & Thomas Bewick - M4

Grand Champion Female - On Farm European & British Thomas Bewick - T94

SMALL BREEDS

2074 Female - 24 months & over

Supreme Champion Bull - On Farm Thomas Bewick - 2101

BREEDER'S GROUP

2075 Breeder's Group

1st Thomas Bewick

2023 Supreme Champion Female –Millstream Springs Cattle Company, East Evelyn

2023 Supreme Champion Bull –Cherryburn Gelbvieh, Ravenshoe.

(From left) 2022 Atherton Show Rural Ambassador Louise Garard, 2023 Atherton Show Rural Ambassador with sponsors Chelsea

Isaac Ramsey, and Mandy Scott, and judge Kurt Angus.

Our Council Our Community

Next Council Meetings

9am Thursday 8 June (Planning Committee)

9am Thursday 28 June (ordinary meeting)

Coordination Centre, 15 Vernon Street, Atherton. The meetings are live streamed and recorded. See socials and trc.qld.gov.au/meetings for agendas, minutes, recordings and live stream links.

Projects & Programs Update

These projects and programs will commence, continue or be completed in June (weather and resources permitting):

•Slashing in Chilverton, Danbulla, Evelyn, Glen Allyn, Jaggan, Kairi, Lake Barrine, Lake Eacham, Malanda, Tarzali, Tolga, Tumoulin and Wondecla.

•Boom slashing in Jaggan, Minbun, Moregatta and Tarzali.

•Grading in Cashmere-Kirrama, Gunnawarra, Kairi, Mount Garnet, Tolga and Walkamin.

•Drainage work in Kairi, Tolga and Walkamin.

•Repairs to Hitchconole Road, Tarzali.

•Replacement of bridge deck on Cockram Road, Ravenshoe.

•Road condition assessment across the region.

•Renewing sections of Channel Road, Walkamin and Wongabel Road, Wongabel.

•Sealing sections of Mooma Road, Upper Barron and Godfrey Road, Kairi.

•Designing and constructing a water treatment facility in Ravenshoe, and constructing a new water main from Ravenshoe to Millstream.

Follow these and other projects and programs at trc.qld.gov.au/projects

Get Tech Help

Head to our libraries if you need a bit of help with your technology. From downloading an app to setting up your email, we’re here to help however we can.

•Atherton Library — 2.30pm on Tuesdays

Tenders

• Tender T-TRC2023-03 for traffic control services is open until 11am Tuesday 6 June.

•Tenders T-TRC2023-04–06 for various gravel resheeting programs are open until 11am Thursday 8 June.

Go to tenderlink.com/trc for more information and to lodge your tender.

School Holidays At The Gallery

Get the kids into the Tableland Regional Gallery these school holidays for a range of exciting and free hands-on art activities developed by First Nations Australian artists in collaboration with Queensland Art Gallery | Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA). The Superpowered on Tour program is for children up to 12 years and focuses on strong empowering messages and humour. The kids can make superhero collages, create power icon props, and fashion costumes and masks. The activities are at the gallery from Saturday 24 June until Saturday 8 July.

Superpowered on Tour is a free QAGOMA Touring program available to regional Queensland communities.

Has

Your Pet Gone Missing?

Check trc.qld.gov.au/impounded-animals and our socials if you are separated from your pet. They may be enjoying a stay at our Animal Management Facility.

Food Safari

Bring your guests and visitors to our free monthly Food Safari showcasing our region’s amazing produce and products. Join the safari at the Atherton Tablelands Information Centre, 10am–12noon on the third Thursday of the month until September. The next safari is Thursday 15 June.

TABLELANDREGIONALGALLERY

By Dan Joseph

On display until Saturday 8 July

Artist talk 10.30am Wednesday 31 May

FOYERGALLERY

By Thursday Painters

On display until Friday 28 July

OLDPOSTOFFICEGALLERY

By Janet Burton, Liz Mermaas, Jen Fleming and Tamara Lay

On display until Saturday 24 June

Customer service centres in Atherton, Herberton, Malanda and Ravenshoe

acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the Tablelands Region and pay respect to Elders past, present and emerging.

ENTERTAINMENT across the region

Lions festival success

HUNDRED of people lined the streets of Dimbulah on the weekend to celebrate the annual Dimbulah Lions Festival.

This year’s events saw the very first Charity Prince and Princess crowning, with the youngest generation of Dimbulah locals raising over $19 351 through raffles for the event –the highest ever raised for the festival.

This year, Alana Roy was crowned the inaugural Charity Princess, alongside Mac Sivyer who was crowned prince. Runner up for the event was Holly Withers.

Dimbulah Lions Club president Brendan Goldsworthy said the event was a huge and extended his thanks to the support of the community who got involved.

“It was a really good night, was really well attended with great weather and great entertainment,” he said.

“The street parade is always a highlight with great float entries this year – you could really see the effort put into them.

“We really appreciate the support of all the locals who attended and who bought raffle tickets and all that money raised will go back into the community through donations and projects.”

All of the inaugural princess and prince entrants, performers and supporters were thanked by the local Lions Club.

Atherton Performing Arts Presents

Directed by Directedby

Tickets: Tableland Books, Atherton, ww athertonperformingarts com au or at the door (cash only)

Tickets:TablelandBooks,Atherton, ww.athertonperformingarts.com.au oratthedoor(cashonly)

Budget sessions, Family and Group Discounts a ailable

Budgetsessions,Familyand GroupDiscountsavailable

Originally Directed on Broadway by James Lapine Orchestrations by Jonathan Tunick Licensed exclusively by Music Theatre International (Australasia) All performance materials supplied by Hal Leonard Australia

OriginallyDirectedonBroadwaybyJamesLapineOrchestrationsbyJonathanTunick LicensedexclusivelybyMusicTheatreInternational(Australasia). AllperformancematerialssuppliedbyHalLeonardAustralia.

This year’s inaugural charity prince and princess winners Mac Sivyer, Alana Roy and Holly Withers. Photo: Denim and Lace Photography.

Chinese dragon performers at the Dimbulah Lions Festival street parade.

Photo: Laura De Lai.

Members of Dimbulah Lions Club at the festival.

Leading the annual Dimbulah Lions Festival street parade.

Photo: Laura De Lai.

EXPRESS

TAKE A BREAK

BIG WORD SEARCH CROSSWORD

22 a male resident of a particular town or city (8)

25 an apparatus for recording sound, pictures, or data (8)

26 an artificial leg, especially a wooden one (6)

27 the science of the causes and effects of diseases (9)

28 a person or thing that equals another in quality (5)

Down

1 relating to a section or subdivision of a larger whole (9)

2 a ceremonial act of washing parts of the body or sacred containers (8)

3 a printed sheet of paper containing information or advertising and usually distributed free (7)

Across

SUDOKU

local sports teams (5)

8 a pair of pruning clippers for use with one hand (9)

10 closed or affected in some other way by a labor strike (6)

11 a voice or sound that is unusually high (8)

12 think deeply about something; meditate or reflect (8)

13 a deep inlet of the sea almost surrounded by land, with a narrow mouth (4)

15 the state of having a serious mental illness (7)

17 relating to moral principles or the branch of knowledge dealing with these (7)

20 to mark a surface with a carved text or design (4)

Puzzle Solutions

4 a small semicircular or rectangular window over a door or another window (8)

5 the action of revoking or annulling a law or act of parliament (6)

6 a slatted wooden case used for transporting goods (5)

9 a plant of the mallow family with long ridged seed pods (4)

14 a common metal that is not considered precious, such as copper, tin, or zinc (4,5)

16 one’s day-to-day plans or timetable (8)

18 a sign or token of something (8)

19 the retention of retrievable data on a computer or other electronic system (7)

21 a small tablet or lozenge, made of medicinal substance worked into a paste and dried (6)

23 having shed tears, usually for sadness (4)

24 a well-built, muscular man (2-3)

WEEKLY HOROSCOPES

Mar 21 - Apr 19

This week, you’re ready to fly. You might be assessing your growth over the past couple of years, celebrate your successes and if you missed opportunities now is the time to plan your attack. Especially around things you lacked confidence in.

JUN 21 - JUL 22

This week, things are improving by leaps and bounds. You could be very serious about honing your intuition or spiritual practice, maybe you’re looking to invest in a class or some books. Later in the week be ready to negotiate if you’re purchasing a big ticket item.

sep 23 - oct 22

This week, you’re free to roam. You might feel like you’re trapped in a cage of responsibility and obligation, you might not have the resources to do what you want. This is the time to find some balance, prioritising play is pivitol in being able to soar.

Dec 22 - Jan 19

This week, you’re tackling things head on. You could be determined to get your home in order this week, perhaps you have visitors coming or maybe you’re just consolidating to just things you love and making your home a true haven of comfort and enjoyment.

apr 20 - may 20

This week, resources become apparent and available. Slow and steady wins the race, but you might feel like the emphasis is on “slow” lately. Your family could be your greatest asset, take the time to communicate this week and get together on the same page.

JUL 23 - AUG 22

This week, you’re ready to step into something new. There might be something in your community or neighbourhood that you’ve noticed and would like to change. Perhaps it’s time to write that letter or even join a local community group and work towards it.

oct 23 - nov 21

This week, there’s nothing in your way. You could be feeling that your R.O.I has been lack luster, it’s time to weigh up security vs return. Later in the week you could be given the opportunity to take on a leadship role outside of your comfort zone, consider it.

Jan 20 - Feb 18

This week, you’re admired by others. You could be getting serious with your love, perhaps it’s time to meet the in laws or maybe you’re looking longer term and discussing buying property. You could be discussing shared responsibilities, communication is key.

May 21 - Jun 20

This week, you’re getting a clear picture. Happy Gemini season! You could find yourself reflecting on the past year and seeing how far you’ve come. This is a great time to focus on your goals for the coming month and year.

Aug 23 -Sep 22

This week, it’s time to be in charge. You could be voted into a leadership position whether you like it or not. This is not the time to stand in the shadows, you see what needs doing so you might as well take the helm. Keep a balanced approach with your energy.

nov 22 - dec 21

This week, a connection could get serious. You and your partner could be having “the talk” this week, if you’re looking for love you could find that long term connection. Later in the week travel could be on your mind, make sure you check your passport is current.

Feb 19 - Mar 20

This week, you’re changing directions. Someone in your family needs your help. It’s possibly they need a shoulder to cry on or a small loan til payday. This individual doesn’t ask for help very often, but you can strengthen your relationship by being open to their request.

ENTERTAINMENT

Young actors take on Annie

FOR the past five months, some of the Tablelands most talented young actors have been hard at work at the Malanda Theatre Company, preparing to put on their rendition of Annie in June.

The cast of Annie is made up of more than 50 students from across the region who have been busy rehearsing their lines, songs and humour for the performance.

The lead characters are double cast, the first cast will perform on 14 and 17 June while the second cast will take the reigns for the 16 and 18 June performances.

The play follows the story of little orphan Annie, who with equal measures of pluck and

Blockbuster comes to Malanda

THERE’S an action-packed blockbuster coming to the Majestic Theatre’s big screen this weekend.

Top actors Vin Diesel, Michele Rodrigues and Jason Statham star in the latest incarnation of the extraordinary Fast and Furious franchise, the latest action crime adventure called “Fast X” (pictured).

As the 10th film in the Fast and Furious saga, “Fast X” begins the final chapter of one of cinema’s most popular global franchises, now in its third decade and still going strong with the same core cast and characters as when it began.

The wonderful timeless story “The Little Mermaid” continues for a second memorable weekend. It’s a spectacular production, well worth watching.

The story revolves around the youngest of King Triton’s daughters, Ariel, who is a beautiful and spirited young mermaid with a thirst for adventure.

Longing to find out more about the world beyond the sea, Ariel visits the surface and falls for the dashing Prince Eric.

Following her heart, she makes a deal with the evil sea witch, Ursula, to experience life on land.

For session times, go to www. majestictheatre.com.au

positivity, charms everyone’s hearts, despite a next-to-nothing start in 1930s New York City.

She is determined to find her parents, who abandoned her years ago on the doorstep of an orphanage run by the cruel, embittered Miss Hannigan.

Classic songs everyone loves including “Tomorrow”, “Hard Knock Life” and “Easy Street” are among the host of musical numbers sprinkled throughout the performance.

Tickets went on sale last Monday ($20 for adults and $10 for children) and are available from Tableland Books in Atherton or online at www.malandatheatre.org.

Lucian Adams Hume as Warbucks, Milou Adams Hume playing Annie and Claire Schrrale who plays Grace.

Alexandra Gaden as Miss Hannigan, Macey Hales playing Rooster and Miah Cox as Lily in Malanda Theatre Company’s production.

ON LANDthe

Field Days cattle display an outstanding success

BY BRIGITTE DALEY

OVER eight different breeds of beef cattle from around 18 different studs were showcased at this year’s Rotary FNQ Field Days.

John Contarino, from Gadgarra Murray Grey Stud, said that this year’s cattle display was a firstclass display of all breeds.

“It has been, without a doubt, the biggest and best line-up of cattle that the Field Days have ever had in terms of numbers and quality,” he said.

“I said it to Trevor (Cattle Display co-ordinator) on Tuesday afternoon and then everyone else was saying it as well. “There has also been a record number of new exhibitors.”

Nick Trompf, from Tallangalook Shorthorns and Santa Gertrudis, has been bringing his cattle to the Rotary FNQ Field Days for around the past 17 years.

“These field days have become one of the key marketing activities we do for the year,” he said. “This year has been the biggest.

“It gives us a lot of exposure with people coming from as far north as the Cape, as far south as Ingham and from out west as well.

“This year’s Field Days have been the busiest in terms of enquiries and people coming through the cattle display. As well as existing clients, we have picked up a lot of new clients.”

Gordon Carcary, of Acton Ridge Ultrablacks, was a second time exhibitor at the Field Days this year. “It’s great advertising for us,” he said.

“There is a wide selection of people, of potential customers that go through the cattle display.

“It’s a great opportunity to put your name out there for when people are ready to purchase, and when they are, they will remember you. There is something to suit everyone here.”

One of the highlights of this year’s cattle dis-

play was Scott and Rachael Bowden’s Miniature Herefords from Millstream Miniature Herefords.

They are the first registered Miniature Hereford Stud on the Atherton Tablelands. They selected Miniature Herefords due to their small acreage of 20 acres which they have at Millstream.

“We felt that smaller cattle would lend themselves better to our situation and felt that Minia-

ture Herefords would be ideal,” Rachael said.

“We also established the herd for our grandchildren to become involved in.

“They are great confidence boosters for children to learn to lead cattle with and also to work with.

“We purchased our first cow two years ago from Ipswich and our bull came from the Port

Macquarie area.

“We registered our stud this year. Their quiet, placid temperament is a big plus as well.”

Their nucleus herd currently comprises of two bulls, six cows and their five progeny.

Scott and Rachael currently have both horned and polled animals and are aiming to breed more polled animals in the future.

‘Iron horse’ Farmall celebrates centenary

BY BRIGITTE DALEY

FARMALL was the very first tractor introduced after the horse - released by the International Harvester Company (IHC) and, now, the company is celebrating its centenary after the first one was manufactured in Chicago in 1923.

The tractors were so popular that by 1941, Farmall had built and sold one million units. By 1974, they had sold over five million of the machines.

Third-generation Atherton Tablelands farmer Joe Trimarchi (PICTURED) is from a pioneering farming family, his son is a fourth-generation farmer, and his grandson is the fifth generation.

Joe has always had Farmall tractors on the farm ever since he first started farming as they were renowned for being an extremely versatile tractor.

“They should have been called the ‘Doall’,” Joe said in acknowledgement of the contribution that they made on his farm.

He recalls how a new model was released in the 1930s.“It had a spring in its seat and everyone thought that technology had gone crazy,” he said.

The first Farmall tractor to ever come to the Atherton Tablelands was the Farmall F-12 which made its first appearance in the 1930s.

Nowadays, satellite navigation with GPS systems are common in tractors and the Rotary FNQ Field Days featured a driverless “autonomous tractor” demonstration.

There appears to be no limit to the possibilities of what tractors may be able to do in the future and as Joe asks, “how far can you go?”

‘Good things come in small packages!’: Scott and Rachael Bowden with a 17-month-old miniature Hereford heifer. IMAGE: Brigitte Daley.

ON LANDthe Rotary FNQ Field Days host international visitors

BY BRIGITTE DALEY

THE Rotary FNQ Field Days had the honour of hosting an international agribusiness delegation of over 30 people from Papua New Guinea.

The delegation was headed by the Honourable Soroi Eoe MP, Minister for Provincial Government and Local Level Government and Acting Minister for Trade and Commerce.

Other members of the delegation included a ministerial group, representatives from the industry sectors of agribusiness, education and training, professional services, tourism, resources and community development.

The new Queensland Trade Commissioner for Papua New Guinea and the Pacific also accompanied the group, underlining the Queensland Government’s commitment to building trade and commerce between our two regions.

The delegation came to look at new

technology as well as processes associated with small to medium scale agribusiness.

Areas of interest included the concept of “paddock to plate” and the growing of the product, processing, packaging and marketing.

Organised by Tradelinked CairnsPNG-Pacific, in conjunction with the Exchange Innovation and information Centre (EiiC), the delegation was also here to develop and build stronger relationships between Papua New Guinea and Far North Queensland.

International Advisor for EiiC, Lyn Carlyle-Jacob, said there were many similarities between Papua New Guinea and Far North Queensland.

“The tropical climate and lifestyle are similar and we have a good understanding of the synergies in our business and cultural endeavours,” she said.

“This delegation is part of the ongoing engagement strategy between Cairns and our nearest trading partner.”

A hub of interest for producers

BY BRIGITTE DALEY

KEEN interest was shown by producers engaging with the team from the Tropical North Queensland Drought Resilience Adoption and Innovation Hub at last week’s Rotary FNQ Field Days.

The TNQ Drought Hub, which is led by James Cook University and dedicated to creating a better future for Australian farmers, is keen to uncover what problems local farmers are facing.

These problems are then used as the basis for sourcing technology and research solutions that can help Tropical North Queensland producers to build stronger, more sustainable and resilient businesses.

TNQ Drought Hub has launched an online portal called The Muster where producers can submit details of challenges they are experiencing so that they can be analysed and linked to existing solutions or activated within the entrepreneurial or research community.

Nicole Lucas is the Ag Innovation Program Lead within the hub.

“The TNQ Drought Hub is committed to better understanding the challenges faced by TNQ producers, that’s why we are going straight to the source to collect these problems,” she said.

“Once collected, we then use these problems as the basis of solution finding through on-farm technology trials, innovation or research that will benefit the wider community.

“Notable success stories have included the on-farm trials of a pregnancy breath testing device for cattle and on-farm trials using Pairtree Intelligence to integrate a range of different property management software into one dashboard making it less complicated for the user.

“Our next range of trials will be dedicated to products which will solve some key problems for the horticultural industry.”

TNQ Drought Hub director Professor David Phelps said farmers

and producers in Tropical North Queensland experienced different challenges compared to their southern counterparts.

“It is important that we are investing in research and technol-

ogy to make their businesses more sustainable and resilient to future droughts,” he said.

“Agriculture has always benefited from new technologies, and the things many landholders now use on a day-to-day basis were once new innovations.”

Dr Phelps said “starting with the problem in-mind” had already proven to be effective, with the TNQ Drought Hub team recently working with New South Wales start-up Agscent to trial a new method of breath testing pregnant cattle in North Queensland.

“A great example of this ‘problem to solution match-up’ is the Agscent breath-based pregnancy test product that we recently trialled at JCU’s Fletcher Station in Charters Towers,” he said.

“In this case, the issue was quite simply a lack of availability and affordable pregnancy testing services, as current pregnancy detection methods for cattle can be costly and time-consuming.

“Therefore, TNQ Drought Hub worked with Agscent to test their technology in northern Australia to ensure the design team are producing devices that are ready for use in the northern beef herd and able to withstand our tropical conditions.

“In the event of a drought, farmers also need to be able to quickly determine which cattle to keep and which to move to another property, so having an easy method to help with this decision-making is a game changer for producers.

“This is a great example of how we were able to identify and capture an issue that northern cattle producers were facing and find an existing innovative solution to help improve their business operations.”

Landholders and producers are encouraged to head to the Problem Statement Capture form on the TNQ Drought Hub website to submit any problems they are currently facing. For more information go to www.tnqdroughthub.com.au/problemstatement-capture/

SUPERIOR

e cient drive-lines, low fuel consumption and long service intervals. Get it done with a tractor designed for ultimate e ciency in all conditons.

Visiting last week’s Rotary FNQ Field Days was a Papua New Guinean agribusiness delegation of over 30 people. IMAGES: Georgina Humphries.

(Left to right) Digital Ag Innovation Consultant Kara WorthRangelands Project Officer Keerah Steele and Ag Innovation Program Lead Nicole Lucas. IMAGE: Brigitte Daley.

LETTERSto the editor

Separating fact from fiction

WHAT a wondrous change has come over the world with the advent of computers and the “Information Super-highway” that we simply refer to as the internet.

Things that were once complex and time consuming are now able to be achieved in seconds without leaving the comfort of your home.

And with each passing day the ability of the same technology is taking us further and further into the future at an ever-increasing rate.

But it is a two-edged sword, and for all of the beneficial gains there is a downside that threatens our future in an equally negative way.

Probably the most obvious example is the spiralling increase of cyber crime, but another more subtle but equally damaging use of the internet is the spreading of “misinformation”.

There are those amongst us who believe anything they come across on the internet is the truth and will defend it vigorously simply because they found it “on the net”.

Well, the fact is that for all the genuine information available, there is most likely a far greater amount of non-genuine information which must be sorted through to get to the hard facts.

This is the downside of the net in that it has provided a tool for any fool on the planet with access to a computer (or simply a smartphone of which there are hundreds of millions) to post almost anything they like regardless of its value to anyone who stumbles across it.

This creates a problem separating the “wheat” from the “chaff” as it were. Most intelligent and educated people don’t have a problem with this simply because they discount the more radical material and lean toward that which ties

in with information from other sources and provides a credible and balanced example of what they are seeking.

Alas! Then there are the people who trawl the net looking for any snippet that is either highly improbable, downright untruthful or simply impossible and because it was on the net then “its got to be true”.

Lets face it, Elvis is still alive, smoking is not harmful, and Donald Trump is an honest and humble man. It is all on the internet.

And so quoting websites is no guarantee of authenticity of the truth of anything. It simply says that such a website exists and someone is posting information on it. Such information can be factual and informative and it is equally probable that it can be totally untrue and useless.

We used to observe an old adage “believe half of what you see and none of what you hear”. Well perhaps that should be revised to “believe nothing you find on the net until it can be verified by a reliable, independent source.

Jim Pacey ATHERTON

Repeat offenders

HOT topic in all the Newspapers and TV news is about the Youth Crime that’s causing so much upset in our communities.

I reckon I have a solution. Try this: All these crimes are being committed by “repeat offenders”.

Yes, that’s the key word “repeat, repeat, repeat”. If the truth be known, all these offenders would have rap sheets as long as your arm and keep avoiding being locked up or even mildly punished.

Every night it’s the same “low lifes” break-

Can you be found by emergency services?

WE all know that in an emergency, minutes matter and making your property accessible and your property number visible from the road could be the difference between life and death when emergency services are trying to find you.

Rural properties

If you own or live on a rural property, it is important to contact your local government to obtain a rural address number.

Lot numbers are no longer an accepted component of an address.

Rural addressing is a method of identifying and addressing rural properties throughout Australia.

Numbering is a distance-based system, with numbers based on how far (in metres) your property’s entrance is from the road’s starting point. You then divide by 10, and round to a whole number.

Odd numbers are assigned to the left side of a road and even numbers are assigned to the right side.

Residential and business properties

Residential properties and busi-

nesses should also be numbered to make it easier for emergency responders to find your home or business.

We know that fire trucks are large, so ensure that you don’t have overhanging trees or branches which may prevent or slow down an emergency response.

Ensure your property is easily identifiable and accessible:

• Make sure your house is numbered and is visible from the street

• Clear trees and long grass from around the numbers

• Make sure you use reflective numbers so they can be seen day or night

• If in town, paint the number on the curb outside your house.

If you are in danger or require immediate assistance, call Triple Zero (000).

For all other police matters, search Policelink. In an emergency, we know that emotions are often heightened, but staying as calm as possible and providing all the relevant information as requested by the operator will assist emergency services in getting to you faster.

ing into houses and pinching somebody’s pride and joy car, or bashing some poor unfortunate citizen.

Over all the Cairns and surrounding areas there’s probably about 100 or so that are the problem.

It’s all become a fun sport to them, so they just continue doing what they do. It’s just great fun to them knowing there are no consequences to their crimes.

So why not round them up immediately they’re caught and start sending them off to an outback camp to be taught the rules of living in a community.

Send them all away, problem solved. And maybe the “mambie pambie” feel good mob could go with them to hold their hands and keep them company.

Just a quick thought. Maybe we could send some of our hopeless politicians out there too.

Ian Lummis TINAROO

Who’s footing the bill?

I LIVE in Tolga and am concerned about the water use on the housing development estate. Sprinklers are on 3-4 days a week 24-7 to compact the house blocks before they pour the slabs for the houses.

I would like to know if the developers are paying for the megalitres used every day. I have not seen a water meter on any stand pipes used for this purpose, of their water trucks. As ratepayers, we are concerned – does excess also apply to the developers or council?

W.M. TOLGA

PHOTO OF THE WEEK

MENTAL HEALTH THE

EVERYBODY gets stressed sometimes. The classic definition of stress is the response our bodies and minds have to the demands placed upon them and the interpretations we assign to those demands.

Stress can be motivating to make us prioritise tasks to tackle the most important work first.

The perceived stress activates adrenaline to make us able to complete the task quickly.

If for instance you had to plan a party last minute the thought of all the things to do can produce stress, but once the party begins, you start to relax a little as you look around and see the guests enjoying themselves and once the event is over you relax and can see the fun everyone had.

Short-term pressure and mild anxiety end in a task completed and having a sense of satisfaction. This is the benefit of stress. When we experience stress for extensive periods of time, without being able to alter, change or complete the task causing stress, we can feel empty, numb, devoid of motivation, hopeless and beyond caring.

Burnout is different to stress in that it is a state of emotional and physical exhaustion caused by excessive and prolonged stress.

Prolonged effects of chronic long-term stress can lead to cardiovascular and metabolic disease, immune impairment, cognitive impairment, elevated blood pressure, depression and anxiety and drug and alcohol misuse.

So, it is important to address the source of burnout. The biggest predictor of burnout is a lack of efficiency.

As sense of daily progress can be the best way to combat this and hence keeping a diary of work you completed in a day or doing easy jobs to get started can help with the feeling of completion.

Finding ways to release the helpful hormones through self-care to combat the stress hormones can help to modulate the effects of stress.

Dopamine – “The Reward System” is released when we complete tasks, eat nutritious foods and celebrate the little wins.

Endorphins – “Pain Killers” – Laughter is the best medicine because it releases endorphins.

Time alone in meditation, doing something we love like painting, craft, reading or exercise also gives us the “feel-good” hormone.

Serotonin – “The Mood Stabiliser” – can be gained from running, swimming and cycling and most importantly meaningful and strong social connections. Ask for a hug from a loved one!

These are the hormones that we are rewarded with for self-care, they can be hard to do when you are low, but usually make us feel better when completed.

Work – Life Balance is the best way to prevent burnout, but balance is hard in this modern society.

However, an awareness of the place these hormones play in our lives can help you to take control of your life and your emotions.

If you or someone you know is experiencing stress, please see your GP for a Mental Health Care plan and/or address your work stress with your employer.

The information provided is from Better Together Community Services. This advice may not suit your personal situation and therefore cannot substitute real psychological advice please consult a professional if this has raised issues for you. You can contact our Professional Psychological Services for an appointment on 4091 3850.

PROPERTY

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

I could be yours

BEAUTIFULLY renovated and the perfect size for downsizing, this lovely home is looking for a new owner. Could that be you?

Upon entering, you will be taken back by the gor-

geous interiors of this home. Open plan in design, the living area offers a cosy place to relax by the fireplace.

The galley style kitchen has lovely finishes and pro-

22 Main Street, Atherton Phone: 4091 7111

vides heaps of storage & bench space & walk in pantry for all your needs.

There are two spacious bedrooms with the master showcasing a walk in robe, stunning renovated ensuite

complete with an open shower plus there is access to the private patio.

The secondary bedroom has large built-in storage as well as an office nook & access to the main bathroom.

You can enjoy the outlook of the park from the covered patio, a wonderful place to entertain which is helped by sliding door access to the kitchen & living.

Set on a generously sized 1,189m2 allotment, there is a two bay lockable shed to store all your tools & toys plus.

An additional open carport is great to house the

caravan.

The gardens are well maintained creating a lovely peaceful oasis and for convenience you have direct access to the park.

Contact Exclusive agent Suzey Whitby at Ray White Atherton today on 0438 090 306 for further information. www.raywhiteruralatherton.com.au/L22611438

Address: ATHERTON

Price: Offers Over $420,000

Agent: EXCLUSIVE to Suzy Whitby Ray White Atherton

Contact: 0438 090 306 or 4091 7111

Atherton

RIVERFRONT RETREAT

Malanda

• Set on 3.4 hectares (8.6 acres*)

• 3 bedroom + office home

• Johnstone River frontage

• Huge entertainment area

• 2 bay machinery shed

• Fenced paddocks

L11707136

Suzey Whitby0438 090 306

Margaret Black: Principal

NEXT FARMING VENTURE

Ravenshoe

• Set on 170.44 hectares

• WIWO dairy farm (operating)

• Undulating and clean pastures

• Well watered, quality supply

• Fenced with laneways

• 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom home

$ P.O.A. L22196243 Morgan Brennan0407 730 450

CLASS & COMFORT Atherton

• Modern, spacious and private

• 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms

• Great sized kitchen

• Entertainment area

• Established gardens

• Double garage

$565,000

L22370576

Suzey Whitby0438 090 306

LARGE ACREAGE & LOCATION

Mareeba

• Set on 68.46 hectares

• Fenced into 5 paddocks

• 2x 2 bedroom, 1 bathroom dwellings

• Residences separately metered

• Feed shed + stables and tack room

• Large dam + views

$899,000

L22683543

Morgan Brennan0407 730 450

www.raywhiteruralatherton.com.au

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

The best of both worlds

IMAGINE having the convenience of town only 3 minutes away but feeling a million miles away.

Located at the end of a quiet street this 20 acre property borders the rail trail and national park so its no wonder you feel the serenity as you turn in the driveway.

The land has the crystal clear water of scrubby creek running through it and is flat, cleared, fenced into paddocks and currently used for horses and cattle.

The cottage farmhouse has some charming character with T&G walls and high ceilings and with a bit of love and vision it could be beautiful home.

Features include the following:

• Practical kitchen with electric oven, pantry and windows overlooking the gardens.

• Living room and dining room with the traditional Queenslander separation

• 3 bedrooms the master with built in cupboards

• Sunroom which could also be a 4th bedroom or study

• Bathroom and separate toilet

• External laundry/store room

• Single carport

• Patio

The property highlights

• 20 acres fenced into paddocks

• Shaded Holding yard with loading ramp

• Troughs with town water running supply into the paddock

• Approx. 250m of Scrubby creek frontage

• Shed with 1 bay enclosed and 4 bays open

• Stables/Horse Shelter

• Established gardens and fruit trees

For more information or to arrange an inspection contact Exclusive Listed agent Michelle Raso 0428 116 136

The hard work is done, revamped family home close to CBD

CONVENIENTLY located only a short distance to schools & the Atherton CBD is this solidly built and well established home.

Sitting on a spacious and fully fenced 825sqm allotment this property has been maintained well and would work perfectly as your livein option or a great addition to your investment portfolio. Features Include:

•

•

SITUATED on a leafy 2.5 acre block with an amazing outlook towards the creek.

This newly constructed and spacious home offers an opulent interior and outstanding design features including a massive ensuite and a central living hub which flows out to the impressive deck.

The heart of the home is the central living area which offers expansive living spaces and incorporates a deluxe kitchen with stone benchtops, gas freestanding stove & pantry.

The design of the home incorporates cross flow ventilation and wonderful traffic flow from one end of the home to the other.

FEATURES INCLUDE:

• 4 Bedrooms with access from the main bedroom to the deck

• Massive ensuite with separate toilet

• Central living space in-

corporating kitchen, dining & living areas

• Kitchen has stone benchtops, free-standing gas stove, pantry, dishwasher & rangehood

• Main bathroom with bathtub and separate shower

• Internal laundry incorporating storage cupboards

• Outdoor living space with raked ceiling and timber decking

• 3 bay shed with power Wondecla is a rural locality on the Atherton Tablelands and is situated less than 30 minutes away from 3 major towns and offers school bus services.

Your leafy rural lifestyle starts right here so contact Exclusive Marketing Agent Collette Rowston from Raine & Horne Atherton to arrange your private inspection.

Address: 40 Elms Road, WONDECLA

Price: $795,000

Agent: EXCLUSIVE to Collette Rowston Raine & Horne Atherton

Contact: 0419 733 712

YUNGABURRA is a mecca for people wishing to escape the hustle and bustle of the city to enjoy the surrounding countryside.

But that’s not all. This rendered block home in a lovely quiet street has everything for the larger family.

Four bedrooms, all with built-in wardrobes and ceiling fans.

The main bedroom has an en-suite and is air-conditioned.

You will enjoy comfortable living all year round with airconditioning and a combustion heater in the living area.

The open plan living area is fully tiled for easy care and is very spacious with an of-

fice nook or study area.

There is an easy access shower and a separate bath in the main bathroom.

Wondecla retreat Enhance your lifestyle

The 2-car lock-up garage has direct entry into the house.

Your children can play safely in the fully fenced generous sized yard.

Located in a street of quality homes close to a 5 acre council park and the Tinaburra boat ramp.

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

Address: YUNGABURRA

Price: $669,000

Agent: Trisha Jackson

Professionals Atherton

Contact: 0419 183 145

Split-Level Home with Stunning Views

THIS beautifully presented split-level home ticks so many boxes for so many buyers looking to purchase a low maintenance home.

Tucked back from the road in one of Atherton’s most elevated streets this home is guaranteed to impress with the most stunning mountain views.

Features Include;

• Split-level, solid masonry block home

• Air-conditioned open plan living area opening on to veranda

• Modern kitchen with electric appliances, pantry, breakfast bar and ample bench space.

• 3 bedrooms with built in robes

• Spacious main bathroom with a walk-in shower & vanity

unit. Separate toilet

• Plenty of storage space with a hallway linen cupboard

• Ceiling fans, vinyl flooring & screens throughout home

• Veranda on 2 sides of home overlooking scenic mountain views

• Lower level of home is complete with a multipurpose area/laundry, 4th bedroom/ storage room & 2nd bathroom.

• Double carport

• Paved outdoor entertainment area

• Inground swimming pool

• Fully fenced 828m2 allotment

• Established and wellmaintained gardens Ideally located in a quiet street within walking distance to the Atherton Hospital, day care, shopping & medical facilities.

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

Address: 35 Cumbrian Ave, ATHERTON

Price: $469,000

Agent: EXCLUSIVE to Raquel Cunzolo Sommerset Realty

Contact: 0408 983 879

PROPERTY

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

Dual living on 3,101m2

TUCKED away at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac sits this gorgeous family home on a spacious 3,101m2 allotment in a great family friendly area.

With a spacious 4 bedroom, 2 bathroom home and a private and fully self-contained 1 bedroom granny flat, this is the perfect home to grow with your family.

Built to stand the test of time both the main home and the granny flat are a solid concrete block construc-

tion, with rendered concrete internal and external walls.

The kitchen has plenty of storage opportunities plus a dishwasher, with direct access to the back patio entertaining family and friends will be a breeze.

There’s plenty of room for the kids to spread out inside with a dining space directly off the kitchen, room for an extra living space and a separate, large air-conditioned living area.

All four bedroom in the

home are a good size, and the master-suite is conveniently located on the opposite end of the home for some privacy, with the added bonus of air-conditioning, and walk-in wardrobe and ensuite bathroom.

The large main bathroom is convenient to the other bedrooms and laundry, with a spa bath, shower and separate toilet.

If you love entertaining this place is sure to impress with a lovely paved back patio that connects to the massive outdoor entertaining area that doubles as a two bay carport.

Behind a Colorbond privacy fence sits the fully selfcontained granny flat.

With 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, an open living and dining space, kitchen, external laundry, back patio and air-conditioning its perfect for the grandparents or as a teenagers retreat.

The spacious 3,101m2 allotment stays nice and shady, with trees and gardens providing plenty of privacy from the road and neighbours.

There’s a small garden shed to the side, perfect for storing all your garden maintenance needs as well, with plenty of room down the back to put a large shed.

• 4 bedroom, 2 bathroom

home

• 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom

self-contained granny flat

• Large master suite with ensuite, walk-in robe & airconditioned

• Solid concrete block construction, rendered walls

• Great kitchen with plenty of storage & dishwasher

• Large living and dining areas, air-conditioned

• Large main bathroom with spa, shower and separate toilet

• Internal laundry

• Recently painted inside

• Huge outdoor entertaining area incorporation the two bay carport

• Large back patio, small front patio/courtyard

• Massive 3,101m2 allotment, fenced on three side

• Colourbond privacy fence between house and granny flat.

To arrange to your Private Inspection contact exclusive agent Vince Costas on 0419 926 691.

Address: 5 Debel Close, MAREEBA

Price: $620,000

Agent: EXCLUSIVE to Vince Costas Central Realty Mareeba

Contact: 0419 926 691 or 4092 2232

Vince Costas 0419 926 691 vince@crmareeba.com

Remo Esposito 0401 969 473 remo@crmareeba.com

Perfect for extended family

OPEN FOR INSPECTION THIS SATURDAY FROM 10.00am to 11.00am.

JUST once in a while a unique property comes along that can’t be compared to any other.

Situated in a quiet tucked away close on a generous 1,075m2 allotment this 4 bedroom home has all the privacy and space you need as well as multiple living areas and is only 2 minutes from town centre.

The home offers beautiful polished timber floors, a generous floor plan throughout and a huge entertainment/

breezeway area that will comfortably house even the largest family party.

It also enjoys the unique aspect of having 2 of the bedrooms positioned privately on the other side of the entertainment area with their own bathroom, toilet & living area and individual access to the carport – perfect for teenagers or extended family

The extensive list of features include:

• Beautiful polished timber flooring & stunning raked

ceiling

• Air-conditioning to the living areas & 3 bedrooms

• Generous bedrooms plus master with WIR and access to the main bathroom enabling it to be used as an ensuite

• Well-appointed kitchen with quality stainless steel appliances including a dishwasher

• 2 living areas plus an enormous, tiled Breezeway/ entertainment area

• Main bathroom with

shower & separate plunge bath

• Energy efficient inclusions such as a 5kw solar power system, gas hot water & LED lighting

• Laundry with built-in cabinetry & storage cupboard

• Built-in cupboards, security screens & window furnishings throughout

• Rear timber deck overlooking the above-ground Magnesium/Chlorine pool

• 6m x 8m steel frame shed/lean-to with concreted

floor • 1,075m2 allotment with fully fenced rear yard, side access, assorted fruit trees and the privacy of no immediate rear neighbours

• Positioned only 2 minutes to Mareeba town centre

This home represents the lifestyle you deserve! Inspection is highly recommended.

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

Address: 19 Maria Close, MAREEBA

Price: Contact Agent

Agent: EXCLUSIVE to Joe Torrisi Joe Torrisi Real Estate

Contact: 0417 700 468

PRESBYTERIANS meet in Mareeba for worship each Sunday 10am, QCWA Hall, Wilkes Street (behind Meals on Wheels) ALL

Eileen Dalip

20/06/195129/05/2014

In loving memory of Nanny Briz.

“A life so beautifully lived, and a heart so deeply loved.’’ We miss you every day.

Simon, Nancy, Cooper, Noah & Isla.

Graham Jeffery Van Wensveen

Put on his wings and set sail, 29th May, 2021.

I miss you like the ocean, a constant surge of waves, You will be forever in our hearts, the love will never go away.

I know you are with us, we feel it every day, Your absence is an overwhelming pain, a collection of salt and tears.

The love for you will never be forgotten, and will continue for years and years and years.

Love you too much, Your loving wife Fiona and Family.

IN LOVING MEMORY OF Joe De Lai

2/9/1947 ~ 4/6/2022

Sadly missed along life’s way, We think of you every day.

No longer in our lives to share, But in our hearts you’re always there.

Your loving wife and family.

FUNERAL SERVICES

DEBBIE BOARDMAN

Funeral Celebrant

Final farewells with respect. Phone

Des Smith (Gobbler)

21.01.1950 - 29.05.2018

Cheryl would like to thank the following as it has been 5 years since Des’ passing. Better late than never!

Family and friends who travelled from afar, Q.C.W.A. Aerial Outpost Ladies for their support. PallbearersRon Simmonds, Gino Reghenzani, Ron (Chook) Cowan, Jim Madrid, John Santowski and Larry Harrison. Sandra and staff at Community Funerals, Cheryl Tonkin Celebrant. Liz Plummer Cancer Care Centre staff, Hospital staff at Mareeba and Cairns, Mareeba Ambulance for many call outs to our home. Urology and oncology clinics. Excellent care from all of you. Thank you also to Dr Sabine for her devotion, Mareeba Rubgy League Football Club for having a minute silence at a Gladiators home game. Thank you for the food, many sympathy cards, phone calls, flowers and home visits, by all that loved Des. Des is a relative to Smith, Cowan, Jarred, Taylor and Madrid families. Thank you folks for your attendance at the graveside service.

Please accept this as my personal thanks.

LODGE, Pamela Dawn

Trevor would like to thank all the attendees at Pamela’s funeral service for making her send off so special.

He would also like to extend thanks to all the hospital staff, ambulance crew, ECHO staff, Blue nurses and all the friends who cared for Pamela. An extra special thanks to Greg & Rhonda, Jenny & Clint and Nole (Dec.) & Robyn (Dec.) for enriching their lives.

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

THE FAMILY OF Italo Carusi

Would like to sincerely thank Blue Care, Tableland Home Care, Dr. Manypeney, Dr Lim, the PA Cardiac Research Team and all the medical professionals that provided, cared for and assisted Italo through his illness. We would also like to thank Fr. Rob Greenup, who was by our side in our time of need.

We thank our dear family and friends, both near and far, for your messages of condolence, prayers and your support through this sorrowful time.

FOX, Kevin Hilton

Late of Atherton. Passed away peacefully with his family by his side on the 19th of May, 2023. Aged 85 years

Loving Husband of Dot. Hard working Father of Shane (Dec.), Mark, Glen, and Boyd. Very much cherished Grandfather of Talitha, Zoe, Annabelle, Jayden and Samantha-bell. Great Grandfather of Mila, Arligh, Andre, Georgie, and Carter.

Forever in our hearts.

Family and friends of Kevin are respectfully invited to attend his funeral service, which is appointed to move from Mountain View Chapel, Guilfoyle’s Tablelands Crematorium, 3 Nasser Road, Atherton on Monday 29th May, 2023 after a service commencing at 11am, for interment in the Atherton cemetery.

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

NAME: CISCO DOB: 15/03/2023

I am a very affectionate little man, I love cuddles with my humans. I’ll be ready for my forever home on 8th June. I come vet checked, vaccinated, microchipped, desexed, wormed and flea & tick treated. My adoption fee is $130

If

FARM

200 acres

dryland Tolga 0411 269 620

WANTED for good home - pure bred blue or red heeler cattle dog pup or young dog. no papers necessary. ph or text 0448 405 983.

Saturday 3 June 8am - 12 noon

Sunday 4 June 12 noon - 4pm 80 Rankine Drive, Rangeview (Tolga) Books, CDs, amplifier, TV, paintings, car accessories and household items.

POSITION VACANT PUBLIC NOTICE

RECEPTIONIST AND ADMINISTRATION SUPPORT

Part-time permanent

A position is available in our Mareeba office for a receptionist and administrative support person to join our team.

The role will be 20 hours (minimum) to 30 hours per week during business hours, to be mutually agreed with the successful candidate.

You will be working in a supportive and friendly environment, with on-the-job training and development opportunities.

The role is suited to someone who:

• Has a positive nature

• Has an excellent telephone manner and a commitment to client service

• Is motivated, self-driven, reliable and professional

• Is able to work as a team and independently

• Has experience with the Microsoft Office suite

Prior experience as a receptionist or secretary is preferred, however it is not a requirement.

Further details of the role and how to apply is provided at: https://www.millerharris.com.au/ careers/

JOURNALIST

The Express Newspaper requires a dedicated Journalist to work from our Mareeba Office.

The Express Newspaper is an independent and locally-owned publication that has been the mainstay of local news in the Mareeba Shire and in the Tablelands region for more than 13 years.

The newspaper has multiple online platforms and an informative website to complement its weekly free printed publication which has won awards year in and year out at the Queensland Country Press Association annual conference.

The paper has a small, but dynamic, team who have a passion for where they live and for balanced and responsible reporting.

The successful applicant must have:

• Extensive knowledge of news writing and information gathering.

• Must have excellent journalistic skills and the ability to work with a vibrant team under the supervision of the Editor.

• Some experience in back-end web production and web management is preferable but not essential.

• The position includes the delivery of news across our news platforms. Knowledge of Adobe InDesign software, Photoshop, drone operation, and video editing software would be an advantage.

We offer:

• Flexible working hours

• A relaxed working environment

• Safe working space

• Opportunity to develop and grow with the company

• Be part of a vibrant, dedicated team of professionals

• Remuneration upon application.

EARLY CHILDHOOD TEACHER

First Steps

Early Childhood Learning Centre is looking for an enthusiastic Early Childhood Teacher, who has a passion for teaching through play and keen to work in a team of highly dedicated and experienced educators. This amazing opportunity is a full-time position offering 10 weeks paid holidays during school holidays and teacher award wages.

Expressions of interest to contact Samuel Wright on 40917757 or via email: samuel@firststeps.com.au

The position is full time with above award remuneration. To apply, send your CV and Covering Letter to:carl@theexpressnewspaper.com.au

Applications close: Friday 9 June 2023. Please feel free to contact us on0408 924 312.

ADMINISTRATION OFFICER

Hardworking, energetic person required for a busy Production Nursery in Mareeba.

We are offering a FT Position, 38 hours per week. This position requires the ability to work in a fast-paced office environment and be adaptable to change. You will be able to hit the ground running with mad skills in QuickBooks and Microsoft Office.

Formal qualifications in Business, Admin or Finance, and previous nursery experience highly regarded but not mandatory. You will be responsible for all aspects of finance and admin including tax.

If you are only available for a short time, please do not apply. We are seeking a team member with the view of permanent work. Please contact Diana on (07) 4092 7122 or email: info@flourishplants.com.au with résumé and cover letter.

TRUCK DRIVER

DUTIES:



• Responsible for delivering meat to clients, Atherton to Cairns daily.

• Available Monday to Friday and able to start early - 5am.

• Is reliable, presentable and can provide excellent customer service to clients.

 REQUIREMENTS:

• Atherton Tablelands based

• HR truck licence

 APPLY NOW

E: sales@rca4882.com.au

P: 07 4095 4358

MOPS Mareeba Old Players & Supporters

Would like to thank all that supported our raffle, and enabled us to make sizable donations to local community groups.

$50 Raffle drawn on Friday 12 May, 2023.

Congratulations to the following winners:

1st Place: $5000 - Keri Martin (Ticket 146)

2nd Place: $1000 - Sue Rogato (Ticket 38)

3rd Place: $500 - Gerard Kath (Ticket 71)

Winners have been contacted by the organisers.

JIM HAYES ELECTRICAL IS CLOSING

Notice is hereby given that the business trading as Jim Hayes Electrical will cease operation as of 30/06/2023. All current projects will be completed with no further work commitments.

I would like to thank all my customers over the past 33 years for your support! - Jim

1.55 MIL FACEBOOK REACH

22,200 500,000+

FACEBOOK FOLLOWERS

TOTAL PAGE VIEWS

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

New fund to help country race clubs

COUNTRY racing clubs like Mareeba and Tolga can now apply to improve their facilities under a new $3 million funding program established by the State Government.

Racing Minister Grace Grace announced applications were open for the new Country Club Asset Funding Program (CCAF) which is set to replace the Country Racing Program (CRP).

Set to build on the more than 300 projects supported across the state by the CRP since 2018, the CCAF is a $400,000 increase from the last grant round of the former program.

In the Far North Queensland region alone, almost 30 projects were approved under the CRP, ranging from a half-million-dollar track renovation at the Innisfail Turf Club to an almost $17,000 extension of the jockey and steward’s room at the Gordonvale Turf Club.

A natural progression from the CRP, the CCAF follows the introduction of the Palaszczuk Government’s new funding model for racing, which reinvests 80 per cent of Betting Tax revenue back into industry and guarantees higher minimum funding support for country racing.

The grants will help country racing clubs with infrastructure repairs, as well as maintenance and asset replenishment as assessed on a needs basis.

Applications close 5 June 2023.

Mareeba teens tear up Crankworx

TWO Mareeba locals ripped up the red dirt tracks in Cairns against some of the best mountain bikers in the world recently, coming first and third in the Crankworx competition.

Cayden and Krystal of St Stephen’s Catholic College raced harder and faster than ever before, competing against some of the best in the sport from across Australia, England, New Zealand, Canada and Europe.

Cayden competed in the under 19 Pump Track against competitors from Australia, New Zealand and France. After some very close and tight racing, Cayden finished in first place.

Krystal competed in the under 15 Pump Track and Dual Slalom against competitors from Australia and Great Britain.

Krystal demonstrated her skills and talent, finishing first in Pump Track and third in Dual Slalom.

For their outstanding performances, both Cayden and Krystal will be granted wild card entries into any event in the Crankworx calendar, having won gold medals in their respective events.

The staff and their peers at St Stephen’s congratulated the duo for their efforts and look forward to supporting them in their future biking endeavours.

Krystal made her school and community proud, coming third in the under 15 category.

Grabyourtruelocalnewspaper atthefollowinglocations:

MAREEBA:

Mareeba News, Piagno’s News, Mareeba Discount Drug Store, Shell Mareeba Service Station, BP Mareeba, Mareeba IGA, Curcio’s Bakery, Mobil Service Station Mareeba, Termite, Portsmith Fuels, Biboohra Cash Store, Post Offi ce Centre Mareeba, Mareeba Leagues Club and all good business outlets.

ATHERTON:

Summers News, Phillips News, Mobile Atherton, Fresh St. Market IGA, Puma Service Station Atherton, Atherton International Club, Atherton Bakehouse, Café on Louise, Atherton Feed & Saddle Shed, Tableland Fertilizers Atherton, Community Services Tablelands, Atherton Visitor Centre, Carrington Hotel Atherton, Woolworths Atherton, Woolworths Servo Atherton and Cottage Cafe.

SOUTHERN TABLELANDS:

Tolga News, Mobil Service Station Tolga, Cash Store Walkamin, Malanda Spar, Caltex Malanda, Marano’s Malanda, Tobin’s Millaa Millaa, Yungaburra Foodworks, Yungaburra Pit Stop, Kairi Store, Herberton News, Herberton 5 Star, Wondecla Roadhouse, Ravenshoe News, Ravenshoe Hiland Bakery, Foodworks Ravenshoe, Ravenshoe Information Centre, Marano’s Ravenshoe, Tall Timbers Roadhouse, Mt Garnet Post Offi ce, Cornett’s Ravenshoe, Ravenshoe Information Centre, Malanda Real Estate, Millaa Millaa Real Estate, Malanda Visitor Centre, Eacham Fuels Malanda and Yungaburra Information Centre.

KURANDA:

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

DIMBULAH:

TGT Home Hardware, Dimbulah Post Offi ce, Bendigo Bank, Dimbulah One Stop and De Lai Fuel Distribution.

And numerous small businesses across the Tablelands, Gulf and Peninsula!

CHILLAGOE:

Almaden Hotel, Chillagoe Post Offi ce, Chillagoe General Store, Chillagoe Hotel and Post Offi ce Hotel.

COOKTOWN:

Cooktown IGA, Cooktown News, Sovereign Hotel, Caltex Cooktown, Palmer River Roadhouse, Cooktown Hotel, Lakeland Downs Hotel, Lakeland Roadhouse and Lakeland Coffee House.

MT MOLLOY: Mt Molloy Post Offi ce and Mt Molloy Store.

KARUMBA:

Post Offi ce Karumba, Karumba Pharmacy and Carpentaria Fuels.

GEORGETOWN:

Ampol Roadhouse, Midway Caravan Park and Georgetown Hospital.

NORMANTON: One Stop Shop, Normanton Trader and Garden Café.

MT SURPRISE: Post Offi ce and Mt Surprise Service Station.

CROYDON: Gulf Gate Roadhouse and Croydon General Store.

EINASLEIGH: Post Offi ce and Einasleigh Council.

FORSAYTH: Store and Post Offi ce and Goldfield Tavern.

MOSSMAN: Port Douglas IGA and Mossman News.

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

INNISFAIL: Larsen’s Newsagency and The Book Centre.

Cayden taking home gold in the under 19 category.

Local skiers off to world titles

SKIERS from the Northern Region Barefoot Water Ski Club based out of Lake Tinaroo have been selected to represent Australia at the World Titles next year after their performance at the recent Australian Barefoot Nationals held at Canungra, south of Brisbane.

The skiers who competed at nationals from 8-13 May were Matty Santarossa, Zane Watters, Justin Molford, Mark Molford, Ruth Molford, Lindsie Jack and club president Katina Davis.

Out of those who skied, three barefooters were selected in the Australian squad for the upcoming World Titles next year – Justin and Mark Molford and Lindsie Jack who was also selected for the U23 Division.

While they have been selected to compete, the local skiers will need to continue to refine their skills as another selection will be made further down the track to determine who will get on the water for the World Titles in 2024.

Davis is extremely proud of having not one but three of the club’s skiers be picked in the Australian squad.

“As president, I am so proud of our young club members and their achievements,” she said.

“It is a wonderful honour to be named in these squads and shows that these three barefooters have impressed the Australian selectors.

“I know how much hard work must now go into training for the chance to represent Australia at Worlds next year.”

Provided she continues to produce qualifying scores for each event, Katina also hopes to ski at Open Worlds next year but as an independent.

However, her real focus will be on defending her World Title at the World Masters which will be held in Florida in 2025.

The Northern Region Barefoot Water Ski Club and its members have been on the world stage a total of 10 times with Davis making seven appearances, Jack making two and Justin Mulford having just one.

The three selected to compete again next year will be working hard, even through the winter, to better their scores and increase their chances of final selection in the Australian teams.

This includes time on the jump, perfecting one foot slalom both forward and backwards and learning new tricks, including turns.

Gymnasts ready for country challenge

GYMNASTS from across the Far North will be heading to Mareeba’s Arthur Randolph Lane Gymnastics Centre this weekend to compete in the two-day Mareeba Country Challenge.

The annual challenge, taking place from 3-4 June, welcomes gymnasts’ Level one to six to compete against each other and earn points to qualify for the regional championships.

This year, 212 gymnasts will be competing from clubs in Mareeba, Cooktown, Tully and Cairns.

Competition sub-committee member and sponsorship coordinator Clare Anderson says she is excited to invite gymnasts from across the region to their country gymnasium and hopes they will benefit from competing in

their own area.

“It is really good to have our Mareeba gymnasts competing in their own gym with their own equipment because when they go away from competitions, they are usually met with equipment they’ve never used before,” she said.

“I would also like to thank our sponsors for their contributions – Mareeba Trees, Carroll Bros, Nasty’s Fish and Grill, Gulf Caught Seafood and Bendigo Bank. Without them this wouldn’t be going ahead.”

The public are invited to support their local gymnasts from 8am on Saturday and 8.30am on Sunday. Entry is a gold coin donation with food and drinks available to purchase on the day.

Northern Region Barefoot Water Ski Club member Lindsie Jack during her recent slalom ski at the Australian Barefoot Nationals competition.

Mareeba gymnasts getting ready for the Mareeba Country Competition this weekend.

Innisfail victorius over Atherton in Mayor’s Cup

INNISFAIL have retained the John Cole Toyota Mayor’s Cup following a commanding 46-12 win over the Atherton Roosters at Mungalli Creek Dairy Stadium on Saturday night.

Several times the Roosters were caught short in defence whilst the Innisfail side was full of class and wasted no time to front the contest 24-0 after only 26 minutes of play.

Tries both sides of halftime gave the Roosters some hope before Innisfail wrapped up their night with another three tries in the final 15 minutes of play.

In reserve grade, the Roosters have now won three straight after winning a tight match 12-8 over Innisfail while the Roosters under 18 side also won 18-12. The Roosters ladies side won their match 22-12 after leading 8-4 at the break.

FNQ rugby league premiership action continues for the Atherton Roosters against Edmonton Storm this Saturday at Petersen Park, Edmonton.

For the Mareeba Gladiators, they will be back playing at home at Davies Park after a bye last weekend, refreshed and ready to take on Mossman-Port Douglas on Saturday.

SPORT Small town... Big heart!

Roosters forward Kaleb Dawson against Innisfail on Saturday.

SPORT

Paddling to gold in river challenge

PADDLERS from far and wide travelled to Mareeba over the weekend to participate in the Barron River Challenge, with Brett Greenwood from Sydney taking home gold with a time of 3 hours, 56 minutes and 34 seconds in the top category.

The Barron River Challenge is run on the last weekend in May each year down the Barron River from the John Doyle bridge to Kuranda beach via Bilwon (Biboohra).

Paddlers navigated a unique section of the prominent Barron River for the challenge, split up into three different difficulties –BRC20, BRC30 and BRC50

Following Greenwood in the BRC50 category was second placer Brett McDonald (Perth) with a time of 4 hours, 45 seconds and local man John van Ryt in third with a time of 4 hours, 1 minute and 5 seconds.

Geoff Pearce of Tweed Heads followed in fourth place with a time of 4 hours, 27 minutes and 9 seconds, whilst Brad Butler of Encounter Bay, South Australia came in fifth with a time of 4 hours 55 minutes and 10 seconds.

For the overall women’s category winners, the “baronesses”, Kate Martin and Sharon Cobley (Perth)

came in first with a time of 5 hours, 49 minutes and 11 seconds.

In the BRC30 race, Kate Crossing (Perth) crossed the finish line in 4 hours 11 minutes 43 seconds and the mixed double paddlers, Robert and Tanya Laporte of Townsville, came in second with a time of 4 hours, 32 minutes and 28 seconds.

In the BRC20 race between Mareeba and Bilwon, previous winner Steven Jenje (Mount Isa) came in first with a time of 1 hour 46 minutes and 43 seconds, holding off local ranger Robbie Miller who came in second with a time of 1 hour 50 minutes and 30 seconds whilst and local farmer Tony Marnane came in third with a time of 1 hour 55 minutes and 36 seconds.

Throughout the women’s event, records and personal bests were broken, with paddler Nicky Donaldson of Buderim achieving her goal of breaking the 2 hour barrier with 1 hour 56 minutes 43 seconds.

In second place was Julie McDonald and Kate Crossing (Perth) with a time of 2 hours 11 minutes 44 seconds and in third place was Cordula Kath (‘Lecker Farming’, Mareeba) with a time of 2 hours 11 minutes, 59 seconds.

All participants were congratulated on their efforts.

The BRC50 women’s winners Kate Martin and Sharon Cobley.

The BRC50 winners “the baronesses” accepting their award.

BRC20 female winner Nicky Donaldson on the water.