The Express Newspaper 07 August 2024

Medal celebrates service to college

STRONG faith and longstanding service to a local school was recognised recently when former principal Ida Pinese was awarded the St Stephen’s Medal for 2024.

The St Stephen’s Medal is an honourable award given to those who demonstrate commitment and long-standing service to the college, as well as a person that embodies what it means to follow Christ and demonstrates good faith, service and courage.

Introduced in 2021, with previous recipients being Gerry Simon (2021), Sam Bozzo (2022) and David Anthony (2023), the St Stephen’s Medal is awarded during Catholic Education Week and provides opportunity for Catholic schools to celebrate their unique mission and ethos.

Mrs Pinese served at St Stephen’s for 12 years, firstly as deputy principal and then as principal from 2013-2019.

She was presented with the medal during a whole-school liturgy on 26 July at the Catholic College’s Holy Spirit Centre.

“As a leader in education, Mrs Pinese has demonstrated exceptional dedication, vision and resilience, inspiring all those around her,” business manager Hadyn Flynn said when announcing the award.

“Ida serves as a guiding light in education.”

In receiving the award, Mrs Pinese said she was “honoured and humbled”.

“It was a gift to be here as principal and I was very grateful to have had the support of the staff, students and their parents,” she said.

Reflecting on aspects that made her time at St Stephen’s special, she highlighted her favourites as being the annual St Stephen’s day, the remarkable student achievements and the college song “Trust in the Lord” which “captures the essence of what St Stephen’s Catholic College is all about”.

Two new faces at The Express

TWO new faces have joined the editorial team at The Express newspaper.

Accomplished journalist Andree Stephens and cadet journalist Konnor Furber have joined the team, while Robyn Holmes has opted to relinquish her role as editor and work part-time at the paper as a senior journalist.

Deakin University course while he works at the paper, allowing him to get on-the-job experience while he is studying.

The Express managing editor Carl Portella is thrilled to have the two new staff members on board.

Andree brings more than 30 years’ experience to the team, having worked in news reporting for a variety of Australian newspapers and has held communications roles in recent years.

Mareeba born and bred Konnor is keen to tell the stories of people in his home town and the issues that affect the community as he sets about training to become a fullyfledged journalist.

To assist him, The Express is providing Konnor with the opportunity to undertake a

“We pride ourselves on being very much a local newspaper and the only media that really has local news and sports stories in this region,” he said.

“Andree’s experience will be invaluable to the paper and I’m sure that Konnor will benefit from having two senior journalists with decades of experience behind them to mentor him at the start of his career.

“We will continue to strive for excellence in reporting and be the voice of this region which is particularly important as we head towards a State election in October, and a Federal election next year.”

Mrs Ida Pinese and college principal Gary Conwell at the award ceremony.

$100,000 push for more tourism on Tableands

A PUSH to attract more visitors has prompted Tablelands Regional Council to fund a new position for the next 12 months to come up with a strategy on the best way to promote their tourism assets.

But while most councillors lauded the move, two councillors were worried about the extra expenditure when the council’s budget is already in deficit. That concern was also expressed on social media, with many commenting that the council did not need to spend money on the exercise.

The council currently financially supports its four local visitor centres, but it does not fund any pre-arrival marketing which is known as “destination marketing” or provide any finds to the local tourism association, Tourism Atherton Tablelands.

Mayor Rod Marti said he believed the Tablelands was yet to reach its potential with regard to numbers of visitors and contribution to the economy.

“The Tablelands is a long-established tourism destination and the drive market and day visitors make up the majority of our visitors,” he said.

“We have an opportunity to drive better outcomes for tourism in our region through an improved destination marketing approach.

“By engaging a Tourism Development Advisor we’ll have a destination marketing specialist who can guide and inform our decision-making processes.

“This position will review and recommend changes to our destination marketing approach and Destination Management Plan, collaborate with

stakeholders to align opportunities with tourism strategies and economic development goals, build relationships with local tourism operators, and raise the profile of the region as a destination.”

Deputy Mayor Cr Dave Bilney supported the move, saying the role would be “crucial to future tourism opportunities for the Tablelands”.

“There is a bit of a gap there at the moment and if we can attract someone that has expertise in this area, I think

we will do well to support it.”

But Crs Kevin Cardew and Kylie Lang questioned the expenditure involved.

“While I don’t mind the concept, this is effectively adding another service by council,” Cr Cardew said.

“We had a service level review which has identified the need to reduce services. This has not yet happened.

“We are considering increasing our service level without any reduction and cost-savings elsewhere.

“This will also put the budget further into deficit. So, until we start to get serious about reducing service levels, I will not support any more services.”

“I fully agree with Kev on this one. We are already on deficit – we need to look at what we’re doing before we go spending more definitely,” Cr Lang said.

But the Mayor urged councillors to support the move.

“As a council we do invest in tourism in a range of ways but one of the

things we need to sort out is what is council’s role in tourism,” he said.

“What this gives us is a strategic look at TRC, looks at what we have done in the past, what’s TRC’s role in tourism today and going forward.

“Once we define that, we need to be strategic in how we go ahead and deliver it.”

“I think this is an important moment for us because we have just done what we’ve always done because we didn’t know what else to do but this is an important next step for us.”

Economic Development executive manager Angelo Finocchiaro said the strategy could have far-reaching benefits.

“Part of the role is a strategic overview but also how we can draw more visitors into the region based on our strengths which are cultural and heritage tourism,” he said.

Mr Finocchiaro said council previously provided an external contractor with $25,000 a year for destination marketing activities, but that had now ceased.

“As we move through the construction of Priors Creek, one of the main objectives of that project is to attract investment in short-term accommodation and, as part of that process, these investors need to have confidence that council has a dedicated approach to how we are going to attract more visitors,” he said.

The council approved the initiative, with Cr Cardew voting against the recommendation.

Cub Scouts help furry friends

HOMELESS animals are benefiting from the efforts of the Mareeba Cub Scouts who are committed to ensuring the animals at the local refuge stay loved and well-fed.

The cubs have adopted the Mareeba Animal Refuge as a community project for 2024.

During term one, the cubs walked the dogs on a regular basis and in term two, they organised a food drive for the refuge.

The food drive prompted healthy competition between the three Cub Patrols who were all passionate about trying to collect the most food for the animals, all the while providing good-hearted service to the community and refuge.

In term three, the cubs will be developing their

knotting and crafting skills by making toys for the animals and will return in term four to continue to help walk the dogs.

The cubs are encouraging people throughout the community to get involved and help the animals at the refuge.

If anyone is interested in joining the cub scouts or wants about further information regarding weekly meeting times, visit www.fnqscouts.org.

au The Mareeba Scout Group is located at 7 Kilpatrick Street, Mareeba.

For more information about animals, adoption or volunteer work, call 4092 3060, or find the refuge on Instagram or Facebook.

Growth pressures highlight need for scheme review

UNPRECEDENTED growth pressures and rapidly changing development trends have highlighted the need for a comprehensive review of Tablelands Regional Council’s current planning scheme.

The council will engage consultants to undertake a review of the scheme which is a requirement under the State Planning Act 2016.

A review provides the opportunity to evaluate the scheme to ensure that it continues to respond appropriately to growth trends, changes to the legislative and policy framework, community expectations and to ensure that it effectively regulates the use or development of land across the region.

In a report to council, officers say it is critical that council maintains an up-to-date planning scheme in order to appropriately respond to the region’s changing needs efficiently and effectively.

“Having worked with the TRC Planning Scheme for several years now, officers have witnessed notable shifts in development trends, not least of which relate to emerging business models and competing accommodation interests,” the report states.

“Council is committed to stimulating economic growth within the region and regular reviews of the Planning Scheme are integral to success.

“In essence, TRC wishes to remove ‘red

tape’ or general barriers to development that may lie within the Planning Scheme and to identify potential incentives and opportunities to encourage development within the region.

“With that in mind, the review would identify the necessary background investigations needed to advance the preparation of a new (or amended) planning scheme.”

Since TRC adopted the current scheme in 2016, it has undergone several amendments, with another amendment currently with Minister for Local Government Meaghan Scanlon for a final review prior to being presented to council for adoption.

The amendments currently sought are aimed at reducing duplication and confusion as to when the scheme applies to building works; reducing red-tape for self-contained recreational vehicles in rural zones and opening up further opportunities for nature-based tourism and education uses in rural areas; updating Environmental Significance Overlay Mapping to align with the State’s current biodiversity mapping; and updating the Environmental Significance Overlay and Bushfire Hazard Overlay codes to reflect the State’s model codes.

The council has agreed to engage consultants to prepare a full review of the planning scheme, with the recommendations to come back to council.

More plaques for VP Day ceremony

FIFTEEN individual plaques will be added to the Rocky Creek Memorial Park as part of Victory in the Pacific Day (VP Day) commemorations at the site this Sunday.

VP Day marks Japan’s acceptance of the Allied demand for unconditional surrender and, for Australians, the end of World War II.

“During WWII the Tablelands area became the largest military base in Australia, and Rocky Creek was the site of the largest military hospital in the southern hemisphere,” Rocky Creek War Memorial Park committee member Cr Kylie Lang said.

“We remember the local men and women who served and those who were based on the Tablelands during WWII at a ceremony at Rocky Creek War Memorial Park on Sunday 11 August.

“This year is the 79th anniversary of victory in the Pacific and we’ll be dedicating more than 15 individual plaques during the ceremony, including

one recognising the 100th anniversary of Legacy.

“We’ll also be rededicating a replacement plaque for the 21st Australian Infantry Brigade.”

The 15 new plaques will add to more than 110 unit and nearly 300 personal plaques in place at the site.

The dedication and unveiling of the plaques begins at 10am, followed at 11am by the VP Day Memorial Service. Attendees are asked to be seated by 10.45am.

“Join us afterwards for a sausage sizzle under the gum trees thanks to Tolga Museum and Historical Society, and 1940s swing music from the Tablelands Brass Band,” Cr Lang said.

Limited camping for self-contained vehicles is available in the adjacent rest area.

Due to the event, the speed limit on the Kennedy Highway near the entrance to the park will be reduced to 60km/hr between 8.30am and 12.30pm on Sunday.

The Mareeba Cub Scouts have been busy collecting food for the local animal refuge and are set to start making toys for the dogs.

Funding boost for iconic bike trail

THE Atherton Forest Mountain Bike Park is one step closer to expansion, after receiving $75,000 from the Queensland Government to fund a business case study.

The 25 trail mountain bike park is one of the best in Australia, and Tablelands Cycle Sports volunteers have been working tirelessly to expand.

The business case study will support stage two of the expansion, which will add an extra 50km of trails to the park.

“Earlier this year the Honourable Michael Healy, Minister for Tourism Industry Development, announced funding for the business case for this second stage,” Mayor Rod Marti said.

“The business case is the next step in the expansion and development of the AFMBP and it will provide an in-depth analysis of stage two including the evaluation of the project’s viability across socio-economic, financial and sustainability factors.

“The document will include a detailed staged implementation plan and will be the basis from which future investment options will be considered.

“A project control group will provide oversight on the delivery of the business case and include representatives from TRC, Queensland Government, Tableland Yidinji Aboriginal Corporation and Tableland Cycle Sports.

“Atherton meets all the criteria for a mountain biking town and this project will further cement the area as a destination of choice for mountain bike enthusiasts.

“We really appreciate the state’s recognition of the potential of mountain biking in the Tablelands Region, and for supporting our endeavours to grow and develop the AFMBP.”

Tablelands Cycle Sports Inc. president Bret

$1.4m contract for IT

Piccone said he was proud to see more funding going into the park after many years of advocating to expand.

Alongside his team of volunteers, Mr Piccone has helped develop the park to an internationally recognised area and was thankful to see all of the hard work pay off.

“It is another step closer to what we are wanting to achieve and now that we are shovel-ready, it puts us ahead of all the other places that are at the same stage we are,” he said.

“It is a five-step process and now we are at stage four, and just one step away from realisation.

“I am so excited about it.”

Cr Dave Bilney spoke passionately about the project, saying the funding would maximise the park’s full potential and reap new benefits for the region.

“I totally support the officers recommendations to accept the funding for a business case to request for expansion of the park,” he said.

“I think this is a critical piece of documentation to help support funding requests, noting that there is substantial competition with other councils.

“I think we have cracked a few critical eggs today and if we get it all right, we could possibly set ourselves aside from others seeking funding as well. “It’ll maximise and realise the park’s true potential.

“I need to mention the significant work that TCS has done over the years voluntarily – they have been critical in getting up to this particular spot in time and I would just like to publicly acknowledge them because they are volunteers.

“Without them, we wouldn’t have what we have got and these opportunities.”

A THREE-year agreement worth more than $1.4 million for information and communication technology (ICT) management has been approved by Tablelands Regional Council.

The agreement with Roberts &

Morrow Technology (RMT) will yield the company $465,894 in the first year, $475,211 in the second year and $484,716 in the final year of the contract.

RMT provides full ICT managed services to seven councils and pro-

vides consulting, managed mobility and project work to another five councils.

In a report to council, the benefits of using the company were outlined including reducing reliance on internal resources to become

and remain competent in rapidly changing technology architecture and service delivery models, and increasing the stability of IT systems reducing frequency of business disruption and recovery timeframes.

Mareeba to lead innovative healthcare model trial

WORK is already underway on a three-year, Federally-funded project to come up with a new model to improve the delivery of healthcare services in Mareeba.

Mareeba and Communities Family Healthcare (MCFH) received a $1.57 million Federal Government grant last month for the project aimed at exploring, researching and analysing which healthcare model will provide the best outcomes for the shire.

The project is one of 11 innovative healthcare delivery trials in rural and remote Australia and the results of the trial are likely to become a blueprint for other regional towns.

The MCFH collaborated with the National Rural Health Alliance to apply for the grant and will work with the organisation throughout the trial.

The funding will be used to trial the Primary Care Rural Integrated Multidisciplinary Health Service model.

The PRIM-HS model has been a long-term call of the alliance for community-based, notfor-profit organisations to deliver multidisciplinary primary health care services that meet the specific health and wellbeing needs of their communities.

Alliance chief executive Susi Tegen visited Mareeba recently to attend a National Rural Health and Community Healthcare board meeting and, soon after, announced that Louise Livingstone and Kristie Hill would be heading up the project.

“This grant will fund a

position which will bring all the stakeholders together that currently deliver healthcare and look at the population health need and say, ‘hey what’s missing?’, ‘how do we work together?’ or how can we say to government we actually need more services to meet the need of the community’,” she said.

The exercise would take in all aspects of health care delivery including assessing health services in smaller communities outside Mareeba.

“This would identify whether, for example, there were community members that don’t drive or people who do not have transport to get to medical facilities. It allows us to do some planning and think about what might be needed – it might be that a nurse and medical professional should go there one-to-two days a week so the need of that community is met,” Ms Tegen said.

“Or we may look at all the data and go, ‘this population has x number of people, but we know that during the dry, we have all those tourists coming in and, all of a sudden, the health facilities and the hospital can’t cope.

“So, what do we do to make sure that everyone has still got access, and just because tourists come in, doesn’t mean that the local people shouldn’t have access.”

She said considering different scenarios which then could change the demand for health services was also beneficial. An example is the influx of Pacific Islander workers who started to live in the region for several months at a time during and postCovid.

“This project will give the community a much better picture of what’s missing and then you can advocate to the State and Federal Governments,” Ms

Tegen said.

“When Covid occurred, that’s when we started to see the cracks in the system, because all of a sudden a whole lot of communities didn’t get help.”

Ms Tegen said the passion and commitment of the MCFH in taking the initiative to set up the group and make inroads into improving health care in the town had been a key reason why the grant had been successful.

“The reasons Mareeba was picked out of the many towns that put in applications for the grant is that the community is so invested in improving health services,” she said.

“As we progress the trial, we will be eager to share what is learned and see the model being adapted in other communities across rural, regional and remote Australia to address the ongoing rural healthcare access and health outcomes challenges.”

Frustration voiced to LNP

MAREEBA district business

owners and farmers have enlisted the support of LNP Candidate for Cook David Kempton and Coalition Shadow Minister for Northern Australia, Senator Susan McDonald to urgently solve a host of issues during a special meeting last Wednesday.

Mr Kempton joined Senator McDonald, LNP Senator for Queensland based in Townsville, to host the lunch gathering during a tour of Mossman, Julatten and Mareeba.

About 30 people attended the Gateway Hotel to express frustration with the State Government’s dithering on the Kuranda Range Road, the Barron River Bridge, heavy transport routes, business regulations and service provision in regional Queensland.

Mr Kempton described the Kuranda Range and bridge debacles as more evidence of the State Government focusing on South-East Queensland at the expense of the north.

“For the State Government to announce money for yet another Kuranda Range study is

ridiculous,” he said.

“Labor has known about the issues for decades and there has been no action, no work and no solution.

“The message I am giving to people is that to change the current situation and improve the outlook for our region you have to change the government.”

Senator McDonald, a regular visitor to the Mareeba region, said Far North Queensland had been held back by a lack of effective planning.

“Development in the state seat of Cook and the federal seat of Kennedy has been disjointed and suffered from years of no cohesive strategy being taken to Brisbane and Canberra,” she said.

“This area is one of Australia’s most important primary production centres but farmers, graziers, miners and fishers have complained for too long about roads, water security, employment laws, housing and thoughtless regulation.

“These issues can be solved but we need fresh ideas and strong, effective representation to governments.”

The new project was discussed at a recent meeting of the National Rural Health and Mareeba Community Family Healthcare board.

LNP Candidate for Cook, David Kempton and Shadow Minister for Northern Australia Senator Susan McDonald visited Skybury Coffee owner Ian MacLoughlin near Mareeba.

Riders Chris Young and Daniel Green from the Patriots

Australia Military Motorcycle Club took part in the filming of Yungaburra’s Afghanistan Avenue of Honour.

Bikes, camera and action at Avenue of Honour

THE Yungaburra Afghanistan Avenue of Honour took centre stage last Wednesday when the Australian War Memorial filmed the site for a cinematic feature to mark the national institution’s current expansion.

To be shown at the opening of the Canberra Memorial’s new southern entrance at the end of this year, the film will be aired on a large screen highlighting memorials big and small, from across the country.

The Yungaburra memorial was selected from the national Places of Pride Register of War Memorials, which has recorded over 11,500 sites across Australia.

Members of the Cairns and Townsville chapters of the Patriots Australia Military Motorcycle Club added some action to the filming at the picturesque site.

“It was lovely - very green, a beautiful morning,” David “Robbo” Roberts said.

“The boys rode up and down the Avenue and a drone was used to get some aerial shots.”

The bikers, five of whom rode up from Cairns on the morning and six who travelled from Townsville the previous night, were included by the War Memorial because of the Patriots’ long-time support and fund-raising efforts for the Avenue of Honour.

Local group Friends of the Avenue also organised a small party to join former serviceman John Hardy OAM, at the beloved memorial.

“There was no fanfare, but it is always moving to be there,” Robbo said.

The Afghanistan Avenue of Honour was born out of love, following the funeral service for Afghanistan casualty Private Benjamin Chuck at Lake Tinaroo on 1 July 2010, at which more than 1000 people attended.

A subsequent speech by Mr Hardy at an Anzac Day ceremony in Yungaburra suggested the creation of a “living avenue of trees on the Tinaburra Peninsula to represent every digger we have lost in the Afghanistan Campaign”.

Benjamin Chuck’s parents Susan and Gordon then began the push to

build Australia’s first living memorial to all who served in Afghanistan. For them, it was a way of pulling themselves out of the darkness of their son’s death.

“The impact of my son’s death whilst serving as a Commando in Afghanistan was profound and lasting and took me to a place so deep, so dark I struggled to surface anything like the person I was,” Gordon said last week. “Nothing can prepare you for such a blow, nothing can shield you from the aftermath.”

Their work brought an outstanding response from all levels of government, the Defence Force, state and regional RSL bodies, business and community groups and private and corporate sponsors to build the memorial.

Gordon also compiled a book about the Avenue and addressed a crowd of more than 1000 at this year’s Anzac Day memorial.

The Afghanistan Avenue of Honour was officially opened to a crowd of more than 5,000 in 2012.

Council wants action on problem intersections

WORKS are needed to improve safety at two problematic intersections in Atherton, with Tablelands Regional Council writing to the Department of Transport and Main Roads to request changes to make them safer.

In a recent meeting of the Traffic Advisory Committee (TAC), the issues surrounding the intersection of Grove Street and the Kennedy Highway were discussed, with changes deemed to be a matter of priority.

The committee also discussed the need to make changes at the Manthey Road and Kennedy Highway intersection which has been the scene of multiple accidents over the years. Last year, the council agreed to write to DTMR to request that a safety audit be undertaken to determine whether additional safety works were needed.

At the TAC meeting, members were advised that DTMR had no plans to close the intersection at this time and had carried out a safety audit and subsequently installed a stop sign, improved line marking and had cleared some of the vegetation blocking motorists’ views of oncoming traffic.

But the TAC wants more done, requesting that traffic only be allowed to turn left from the highway into Manthey Road, and only allow traffic emerging from the road to turn left into the highway.

This would mean that traffic could not turn right from the highway into Manthey Road which has caused a lot of issues, including vehicles going around turning vehicles on the gravel shoulder and constantly creating large potholes.

TAC chair Cr Kevin Cardew said this would improve safety in the shortterm until a new road was formed for a new subdivision off Turpin Drive

which would then allow Manthey Road to be closed off.

The committee also advised DTMR that upgrading the Grove Street/Tolga Road intersection was a priority of council.

“It was suggested by the TMR representative that the intersection of Golf Links and Tolga roads was their priority – I’m not sure where they came from, but by putting this (recommendation) up here now it will certainly send a message to TMR that it is council’s intention to have the Grove St/Tolga Road intersection as our priority to be upgraded first which will alleviate some of the congestion on Golf Links Road anyway,” he said.

The committee minutes also reveal that reducing the speed limit on Tolga Road between Grove Street and Mazlin Creek was discussed but the committee did not support a reduction and, instead, supported safety improvements for that section of the highway.

The minutes advise that the road needs attention due to heavy traffic volumes and vehicles turning into businesses which were causing safety issues.

The June meeting also discussed reduction of speed limits in several places across the region including extending the 80km/h limit at Walkamin past the truck pullover area.

TMR also wants to lower the speed limit from 100km/h to 80km/h on the Malanda-Lake Barrine Road, between Burt Road and Emerson Road.

TMR also recommended lowering the speed limit to 50km/h on Louise Street, from Cook to Robert Street, as well as reducing the speed to 50km/h on Tinaroo Falls Dam Road, from the Lake Tinaroo Holiday Park to the Tinaroo Environmental Education Centre.

Students receive bursary to further studies

A YIDINJI/Kalakadoon woman from the Atherton Tablelands is one of three James Cook University students to receive an indigenous bursary from notfor-profit environmental organisation Terrain NRM to help with her studies.

Terrain NRM’s Natural Capital Fund Chair Pete Faulkner said the bursary program, now in its fourth year, was introduced to encourage more Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students to become future leaders in natural resource management through $3000 bursaries and the chance to meet people across the sector.

The annual program is open to students studying, or planning to study, at university or TAFE in courses focused on the environment, agriculture,

natural resource management, conservation or sustainable development.

Atherton’s Chelsea Perry is thrilled she was awarded the bursary.

“I pride myself on my indigenous culture. I have a deep connection to the natural world around me and I’m hoping, after graduating, to become a voice for indigenous perspectives and to create a brighter future both for the indigenous mob in the Wet Tropics in the scientific community,” she said.

Nyoka Hrabinsky, from Yarrabah, and Cairns-born Tara Ganley are the other two recipients of the bursary.

For more information about the bursary program, go to www.terrain.org.au/about-us/ indigenous-bursaries

A NEW water main will be installed along two Mareeba streets after the shire council approved a $942,718 contract to do the works.

The contract was awarded to A & B Civil Pty Ltd and includes supply and installation of a new water main on Keeble Street, Eccles Street and through Adams Street.

Works for the new watermain installation will generally be limited to the road reserve between the edge of road and the property boundary.

The existing water main is typically asbestos cement and will be decommissioned. Council has advised the contractors that the works have to be completed by February 2025.

Support for property crime victims in Queensland

FOR the first time in Queensland, victims of non-violent property crime now have access to a range of services following the appointment of UnitingCare to coordinate assistance across Queensland.

The State Government will spend $2 million over the next four years to support community members who have been a victim of non-violent property crime.

Non-violent property crime examples include situations such as burglaries while the occupant was not at home or while the resident was sleeping but wasn’t disturbed.

At the first point of contact, victims will be provided with free access to therapeutic counselling and information, advice, and referral to other relevant organisations where appropriate.

Those seeking therapeutic counselling will be provided appointments for counselling sessions and appropriate follow-up contact.

UnitingCare has significant expertise in the provision of statewide counselling services, including face-to-face, telephone and online contact.

The service began on 1 July.

Meeting a step closer to new Mareeba PCYC

ONE year on from the funding announcement, a meeting will be held this month to discuss the development of a new PCYC building to support Mareeba’s at-risk youth.

A spokesperson from PCYC Queensland said seed funding to develop a new club was finalised earlier this year, with the first stage of funding only received in April 2024.

“Since then, PCYC Queensland has been seeking potential sites and funding opportunities to bring this project to life, with a visit to Mareeba planned in August.”

The state government committed $5 million in seed funding to PCYC in August last year. PCYC chief executive officer Phil Schultz advised at the time that the organisation would work with Mareeba Shire Council to identify suitable sites.

Currently, the organisation operates out of an old building in Walsh Street.

“The new club will be designed with an emphasis on providing a purpose-built space for the delivery of youth programs, Drop In and After Dark activities,” Mr Schultz had said.

Mareeba Shire Council supports the new PCYC development but would not comment on negotiations at this time.

The $5 million funding for Mareeba is part of a $50 million funding program by the State Government to upgrade existing PCYC facilities or to build new ones.

Lack of interest in council Rating Advisory Committee

A NEW committee designed to provide residents with a direct line to Tablelands Regional Council on issues surrounding rates will not be going ahead due to a lack of interest from the community.

Establishing the Rating Advisory Committee was an election promise by Mayor Rod Marti, who expressed his disappointment last week that it had failed to attract interest from members of the public.

“It’s a commitment I made during the campaign because there were a number of people advocating strongly on rates, mainly from the farming community, so I did make a commitment that if I was re-elected, we would set up a rating advisory committee, so it is disappointing,” he said.

“But we can establish a rating advisory committee at any time if the community would like one.”

According to council’s website, the committee was to “review TRC’s general rate structure and provide insight into regional activities and industries for customer-focused rating systems and processes that support quality outcomes for the community”.

Council advertised for interest in 11 committees back in May, with members to be given four-year terms on respective committees. It was also determined that Cr Dave Bilney would be chair of the rating committee and Cr Kevin Cardew a representative of the group.

While a total of around 90 nominations were received for the other committees, only one nomination was received for the rating group.

“I find this very disappointing considering the amount of community members who are vocal about rates – this clearly speaks for New water

Deep connections to the natural world: Terrain NRM bursary recipients (from left) Nyoka Hrabinsky, Chelsea Perry and Tara Ganley are studying environmental science.

Probe into new SES building for Atherton

AN investigation will be undertaken by Tablelands Regional Council into providing a new fit-for-purpose building to house the Atherton SES.

Currently, the SES houses its gear at three different buildings in Atherton, some of which are vermin infested.

Cr Annette Haydon raised the issue at the recent council meeting, saying it was less than desirable for the equipment to be housed in three locations and moved that the council investigate providing a building on one site to accommodate all the group’s gear.

“TRC has had some major disaster events in recent years and we rely on SES volunteers and usually the SES are the first responders after an event,” she said.

“Our resources in Atherton are spread over three facilities with items stored such as rescue equipment, lighting, chainsaws, tarps, etc, which is not great.

“These facilities are vermin infested and a hazard to our volunteers.

“In 2020, councillors were asked to build a new SES building but a location was not agreed upon and the motion was lost.

“Over the last 15-20 years, SES and TRC have had numerous discussions about the requirement to identify or construct a new SES headquarters in Atherton so the facility can secure all the SES assets safely in one location and to accommodate the largest SES group in the region.”

She said some of the equipment was expensive and vital and needed to be housed in a secure and safe location.

Cr Cardew said the issue was raised during the last term of council, and he believed the council had passed a motion to investigate a suitable location at that time.

But Cr Haydon said that due to a tree being on the site which could not be removed, the “whole thing fell over”.

Councillors voted to undertake the investigation, with a report to come back to council.

Meanwhile, the SES is putting the call out for more volunteers to join the group and held a recent event to drive awareness about what they do.

Groups from Atherton, Malanda, Ravenshoe, and Mt Garnet came together for a training, bonding, and family fun day in Mt Garnet.

During the event, members had the opportunity to enhance their skills in digital repeater set-up, Star Link, land search operations, ATVs, and chainsaw use. The following day, a family fun day was held at Mt Garnet headquarters where the public could observe members practicing working safely at heights and road crash rescue techniques.

Anyone who is interested in joining the SES can contact their local group or visit www.ses.qld.gov.au/ form/online-enquiry and submit an online enquiry.

Early birds catch the annual walk

AFTER a record-breaking number of walkers last year, organisers are expecting another great turnout for the 2024 Crime Stoppers Fundraiser Walk.

“We had 185 people gather for the walk in 2023 and the numbers have been steadily rising each year for this popular event,” Crime Stoppers Far Northern Area Committee treasurer Norma Moloney said. “We’ll probably cap it at that as anymore and it will take away from the beautiful ambience of the day.”

“We absolutely recommend booking early as last year we had to turn people away. But I have added a waiting list option on the online booking system in case people drop out for whatever reason.”

To be held on Sunday 18 August, the fundraiser’s main walk heads to the Mount Emerald wind farm beginning at 4am and which takes in a spectacular sunrise during the 14km round trip.

A second, easier, walk leaves from Rocky Creek Igloo and heads to Walkamin along the wide, flat rail trail.

A courtesy bus will pick people up from the meeting point at the Walkamin Community and Sports Club and drop people off at the start points for both walks.

Norma said the benefits of the event were twofold - as a great opportunity to meet with friends, or just enjoy a solo nature experience; and as a support for Crime Stoppers, which receives all proceeds from the day.

The wind farm walk costs $45 and the Rocky Creek Igloo walk will be $40 per person, which includes the courtesy bus plus a burger and drink when you get back.

Early risers need to have their own head lamps and agree to wearing a supplied hard hat. Tickets are available online at www.trybooking.com/eventlist/crimestoppers

ATHERTON MAIZE FESTIVAL HIGH TEA

KAIRI - SUNDAY 4 AUGUST

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.

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.

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

Carlie and Alana Hill.

Jasmin Bensilum with wonderful pastries.

Maryann Sullivan enjoys a cup of tea with friends.

Daniella Gallo and Tarralee Thies enjoyed the event.

Narelle and Willow Morey.

2024 Maize Queens Teesha Potts, Chloe Robertson, Georgia Dean and Ariella Beaman.

SALAMI AND SAUSAGE FESTA

ANOTHER successful Salami and Sausage Festival was hosted at the Mareeba International Club on Sunday as the final event of the 2024 Cairns Italian Festival.

The overall winner was Anna Avolio who took out another three categories and came second in two anothers.

Winning the Northern Style category was Rena Ceola, with second going to Anna Avolio, followed by Francesco Falvo in third.

Francesco Falvo picked up the honours in the Southern Style category, beating Shree Chester and third placegetter Antonella Stabile.

The Salsiccia category was won by Anthony Galeano, followed by Anna Avolio, and Michele Grossi in third.

Anna Avolio was the only entrant in three categories – Freestyle, Culatello, and Capocollo.

(Back row from left) Antonella Avolio, Anthony Galeano, Lui and Pam Garozzo, and (front row) Massimo Heilbronn and overall winner Anna Avolio.

Fred Cristaldi, Dominic Cosentino and Giuliano Cordenos. Mamma Ida, Gina Codotto and Patty Poutenen.

Angie Della Bosca and Grace Armenti.

Mark Langtree and Anna Cito.

Angelo Aurelio, Dave Cann and Luigi Borgo.

OPEN DAY

SUNday AugUST 18

Far North Queensland’s most popular multi-breed beef event, the Tablelands Better Beef Open Day, will feature more breeds than ever with 14 studs participating this year.

The 2024 event on Sunday August 18 will be the sixth year for the Open Day, which attracts hundreds of commercial producers from across Queensland, interstate and overseas.

The Atherton Tablelands has cemented itself as Australia’s most northern seedstock nursery with an array of leading studs participating.

MORE BREEDS MORE BULLS

• BEKI SPECKLE PARK

• CHERRYBURN GELBVEIHS

• EULUMA DROUGHTMASTERS

• FASSIFERN LIMOUSINS & DROUGHTMASTERS

• FIGTREE GREY POLL BRAHMANS

• GADGARRA MURRAY GREYS

• HILLTOP DROUGHTMASTERS & MILLSTREAM MINI HEREFORDS

• PINNACLE POCKET SENEPOLS & COMPOSITES

• REEDYBROOK B BRAHMANS

• RIVERLAND DROUGHTMASTERS

• TALLANGALOOK SHORTHORNS

SANTA GERTRUDIS

• TELPARA HILLS BRANGUS & ULTRA BLACKS

• YANTEE CREEK BRAHMANS

• WARRINA DROUGHTMASTERS

Crystal ready for fire season

As the dry weather takes hold, local firefighters are gearing up for fire season and urging the community to contribute to their efforts. This multi-part series will highlight local firefighters and share their stories as the Queensland Fire Department enters its busiest time of the year.

AT the scene of a fire, Tablelands first officer and fire warden Crystal Stone is cool, calm and collected.

For the past seven years she has been a pillar of strength and resilience in her community and has helped many people during their most vulnerable and traumatic times.

Crystal’s journey as a volunteer firefighter began upon her return to her hometown, where she noticed a pressing need for more hands on deck in the local brigade.

This inspired her to step up and join the Rural Fire Service (RFS), a decision that has shaped her life and those around her.

One of Crystal’s most unforgettable experiences came in October 2023, her first year as first officer.

The fire season hit hard, with fires breaking out in October and spreading rapidly throughout the Tablelands despite the combined efforts of multiple brigades.

“The fires started the night before Halloween, about five to ten kilometres away from my area. Over the course of about three days the fire swept through with all our efforts to stop it failing, even with the help of the entire region’s brigades,” she said.

“In the end, all we could do was evacuate people and protect properties. It was an important learning experience for me - there are times you cannot stop the fire; you look back and feel you could have done things better or changed the outcome somehow, but sometimes these things are out of your control.

“I have a lot of respect for my superiors who have the experience and knowledge to remain calm in those circumstances and are able to maintain order and keep everyone on track.

“That particular fire affected an extremely large area of the Tablelands and continued for over nine days, with many people being evacuated and some losing their houses and property.”

Crystal’s training with the RFS has been instrumental in equipping her for real-life emergencies.

She has completed the Fire Minimum Skills (FMS), Firefighter Advanced Skills (FAS), a Pumping Course, and a Fire Warden workshop, however,

she said the real experiences were what helped her become the warden she is today.

“The real training is on the fire ground, however, and in my opinion, new volunteers need to be very mindful of learning as much as they can from experienced personnel whenever they get the chance and taking opportunities at participating in any burns that their brigade is doing,” she said.

“Reading about it in a book or during a course is little comparison to being in dangerous circumstances on the fire ground. Knowing what to do in those circumstances is life-saving.”

When it comes to fire safety, Crystal is a proud advocate of ensuring everyone in the community does their part to avoid accidents.

She hopes property owners would be more prepared this fire season, particularly if it is as intense as the last one.

“I would like to encourage bush fire awareness to everyone, particularly in rural settings where it is high risk. Watch out for your neighbours, especially those at risk, and offer to help if they need it,” she said.

“Our local brigade is offering to help property owners, by clearing around their houses and properties in preparation for the fire season.

“It’s essential fire personnel and trucks can access places that need it when a fire is coming, maintaining your property is one of the most important things you can do.”

Crystal encourages anyone interested in firefighting or support roles to give it a try.

“During the last seven years or so, I have been a volunteer firefighter, and I have had lots of different experiences and opportunities to learn new things,” she said.

“There are also career opportunities for those who are interested and best of all, it’s a great group of people you get to work with, so there’s no harm in having a go.

“Some people might think volunteer fire fighting is intensive and highly stressful. This can be the case sometimes, but overall, it’s highly rewarding and an essential service for the community.”

GEM FESTIVAL

SUNDAY

Anna Spurge.

Bianca Rawdanowicz.

Mark Flanagan.

Bella Kohler, Ariel Menzies and Zen Menzies.

Rose Godwin.

Steve Ward.

ENTERTAINMENT

Sounds of brass in the park

THE sounds of popular Bold as Brass Two will echo through Bruce Jones Park at Yungaburra this Sunday when another free concert will be staged at the rotunda.

The “Sunday in the Park” program will host the muchloved band which is made up of locals John Godfrey (keys /brass), Des Godfrey (bass), Ian Poggioli (drums and vocals), Joe Paronella (guitar and vocals), Werner Braun

(trumpet and keys), and Chris Bourke (vocals).

Bold as Brass Two enjoy performing together, with Werner’s musical direction they have a lot of fun each time they get together for rehearsal.

The members appreciate that while they are still all able to play music together, they relish the opportunity for just a few times over the year to play at the Yungaburra Rotunda or the Tableland Music lovers so others enjoy their music too.

They have a repertoire of varied pieces and often include new arrangements of memorable songs.

At each Rotunda concert, they take the hat around for donations to the band or charity. Bold as Brass Two

has previously donated the takings to Carinya Home for the Aged, The Salvation Army Christmas appeal and the Atherton and Yungaburra C&K Kindergartens.

So come along between 3pm-5pm on Sunday 11 August to enjoy quality music by well-known local performers. Patrons can donate if they wish to the band’s latest chosen charity which they will announce on the day.

This is a family-friendly free event. Bring along a chair, blanket or rug and reserve your piece of lawn. Refreshments are available from nearby shops.

Parking is available via Short Street. The alternative venue in case of rain is the Yungaburra Community Hall.

Favourite makes its way back on stage

THE brilliant, funny and sad story of Steel Magnolias will come to life when the Malanda Theatre Company starts its performances of the play this week.

Only on for five nights, the play is based on the wellknown 1980s film which had a star-studded cast including a young Julia Roberts, Sally Field, Dolly Parton and Darryl Hannah.

The Malanda production follows the story of Truvy Jones who runs a successful beauty salon in Malanda, where all the ladies in the neighbourhood have a standing Saturday appointment.

Along with her anxious and eager assistant, Annelle, Truvy styles the hair

of many of the women about town – wealthy widow and former first lady of Atherton, Clairee Belcher, local curmudgeon Ouiser Boudreaux, intelligent and compassionate career woman M’Lynn, and her daughter Shelby, the prettiest girl in town.

Shelby’s engagement is the talk of the town, but the joy and excitement of her wedding quickly turns to concern as she faces a risky pregnancy and a myriad of health complications.

Marky Baker is directing the play which begins on 7 August and ends on 11 August. Bookings can be made by going to www. malandatheatre.org or at Tableland Books in Vernon St, Atherton.

Bold as Brass Two will entertain with a variety of songs at a free concert at Yungaburra this Sunday.

The funny and sad story of Steel Magnolias will come to life through the Malanda Theatre Company’s new play.

ENTERTAINMENT

Country music legend ready for Savannah

AUSTRALIA’S country music legend Lee Kernaghan is making his way back to Mareeba for this October’s Savannah in the Round with his new band.

Following the release of his latest single “Who I Am” featuring other Aussie artist James Johnston, Lee will be returning to the annual music festival as one of his stops in his 2024 tour, Boys From The Bush –The Concert.

Lee burst on to the Australian music scene more than three decades ago with a fresh approach of blending traditional country themes with his own experiences growing up in regional Australia.

His unique style of Australian country music struck a chord with fans all over the country, paying homage to our great nation, its people, culture and the hard-working lifestyle.

Lee has achieved a staggering

40 Number 1 chart hit songs over his career and has been awarded 38 Golden Guitars. He has been named Hitmaker of the Decade twice, in 2001 and 2011. This accolade is in recognition of Lee having more chart hits in Australia than any other country music artist in the world.

A trailblazing country music icon, Lee continues to deliver exciting live performances, fusing arena-rock bravado with country music’s heart and soul, depicting traditional stories of life on the land with the sensibilities of the modern day.

Lee’s prior sold out tours have cemented him as one of the greatest entertainers in Australia, and after a five-year hiatus from touring, he is heading back out on the road for a series of live concerts in 2024.

“After what has been a very challenging few years for everyone, I have to say I have never been

more ready and pumped to get out there and celebrate living in the lucky country with my mates all around Australia on this tour,” he said.

“I have an amazing new band working with me and we have put together a show that is for the fans.

“After a long five years away from touring, I can tell you one thing, the boy from the bush is most definitely back and ready to rock.”

Tickets are on sale now for this year’s Savannah in the Round. Hosted at Mareeba’s Kerribee Park from 11-13 October, this year’s headlining acts include the famous Kip Moore, Tyler Hubbard and Queensland’s own, Sheppard, and it’s shaping up to be a special weekend.

For three unforgettable days of music, camping and entertainment visit www.savannahintheround. com.au

Unity for our community Action-packed day for Mt Carbine

A FUN, free family event will be hosted in Mareeba’s Arnold Park this Saturday.

Hosted by Mulungu Aboriginal Corporation, the drug and alcoholfree event will feature live bands, traditional dancing and kid’s activities.

Called “Unity for our Commu-

nity”, the event will feature special guest MC Kevin Kropinyeri as well as entertainment from Jarrod Hickling, MSP, Normey Jay, AeeDeeO and DJ Bala Will.

There will be food available and patrons are advised to bring a chair or picnic rug. The event will be held in Arnold Park from 2pm-7pm.

MT Carbine is the place to be this Saturday, when the town hosts the annual Bull and Bronc Ride.

With free camping, and non-stop music for four hours from 9pm, the event attracts people from across the region and from a far as Townsville and Cooktown.

Affiliated with the Central Rodeo Cowboys Association, the event attracts the best of bull and bronc riders, who compete in the Open Bull ride, as well as Novice, Junior and Mini Bull categories, Bushman’s, Novice and

Junior Saddle Bronc, Calf Ride and Juvenile Steer categories. The stakes will be high with a whopping $16,000 in prizemoney this year.

Gates open at midday on Saturday, with the bar opening at 2pm and competition starting at 5pm.

Tickets are available online at www.trybooking.com/ BRLQG and at the gate, but organisers remind patrons this is a cash-only event. Tickets: Adult $25, children 5-17 $10, U5 free.

Lee Kernaghan is ready to showcase his many hits at October’s Savannah in the Round.

Choose between one of the following walks:

Walk 1 - Sunrise walk to the Mt Emerald Wind Farm. This is a moderate to hard 14 kilometre round trip with magical views of the Tablelands. Each walker must wear their own head light as the walk will commence in the dark, wear a supplied hard hat and agree to a waiver.

Walk 2 - This is a relatively easy walk on a flat wide track from the Rocky Creek Igloo back to Walkamin along the Rail Trail. Approx 8 kilometres. SUNDAY

Spotlight on Gelbvieh breed ON LANDthe

BY CHELSEA ASHMEADE

GROWING up on a beef farm, it’s no wonder Thomas Bewick, of Ravenshoe, has leapt into the industry.

He’s the face behind Cherryburn Gelbviehs, a stud Thomas developed in 2007 when he was just 14 years old.

With a helping hand from other Gelbvieh breeders and the association, which he became a member of immediately, Thomas was able to start his herd.

Throughout the years, the Bewick family has used a range of different bulls to breed with their cows but it wasn’t until they bought and bred with a Gelbvieh that their eyes were opened to new possibilities.

“The calves far exceeded the growth of any other bull we had bred from,” Thomas said.

While he grew his herd, it wasn’t long before Thomas dropped his numbers and sold off some of his stock as he completed schooling and left the farm for work elsewhere.

Fast-forward to today and Thomas has returned to the farm to build up his herd numbers.

“I had been keeping the bare minimum (when I left the farm) and left my cattle at home when I went away for work. Since I have come home, I have focused on the cattle again and I’m building the numbers.”

Thomas is now on a mission to share the breed, its attributes and qualities, with the wider community starting with his participation in this year’s Tablelands Better Beef Open Day on 18 August.

Thomas will bring some of his cattle to Malanda Showgrounds on the day to make it easier for people to come and see them.

He’s no stranger to showing cattle, having had

entries in this year’s Malanda Show and years prior at Brisbane’s Ekka, and he’s also shown at Rockhampton Beef Week.

Thomas said the Gelbvieh was a very easy breed to cross with and they made really good feedlot animals.

Originating in Germany in the 1800s, the Gelbvieh was bred as a triple purpose animal - for milk, draft and meat - the milk and meat traits continue today.

They are predominantly polled with a smooth coat and are a solid red or black in colour.

“They have good growth and low birthweight and are a very quiet breed,” Thomas said.

“They are a very quickly maturing cow, heavy weaning and easy growth.”

As he builds up his stock again, Thomas is hopeful of holding his own sale in years to come and have a broad clientele.

“I want to introduce the Gelbvieh breed to everyone. They’re a really easy to-do breed.”

Thomas is one of two breeders in North Queensland, with the majority of the remaining QLD Gelbvieh studs towards Clermont and further south, as well as a number across Australia.

“Queensland holds the largest number of breeders…one of the biggest breeders of Gelbvieh though is in WA.”

He will be amongst a number of breeders at this year’s Better Beef Day who will have their stock on show.

Thomas said he will have bulls and some young heifers available on the day.

“I want to show everyone what I have and what a Gelbvieh is. I think I’m going to have a pretty good lineup this year,” he said.

“I want people to see a different perspective of

14 studs feature in open day

• Cherryburn Gelbviehs

• Gadgarra Murray Greys

• Warrina Droughtmasters

• Telpara Hills Brangus and UltraBlacks

• Tallangalook Shorthorns and Santa Gertrudis

• Reedybrook B Brahmans

“The

• Riverland Droughtmasters

• Yantee Creek Brahmans

Herefords

• Pinnacle Pocket Senepols and Composites

• Figtree Grey Poll Brahmans

• Fassifern Limousins and Droughtmasters

• Euluma Droughtmasters

• Beki Speckle Park For more information go to the Tableland Better Beef Open Day Facebook page or read the official guide inside this edition.

SUGAR REPORT

WEEK ENDING 28/07/2024

2024 Crop Estimate: 895,000 Tonnes

Total For Week: 28,647 Tonnes

Total Cane Crushed To Date: 273,260 Tonnes

Percentage Crushed: 30.53%

CCS For Week: 14.01

CCS Average To Date: 13.45

WEEK ENDING 28/07/2024

2024 Crop Estimate: 1,388,000 Tonnes

Total For Week: 30,346 Tonnes

Total Cane Crushed To Date: 225,770 Tonnes

the Gelbvieh breed and what they can do for them. I want to encourage them to get out of their safe circle and try something new.”

He said while people were starting to become aware of the Gelbvieh breed there was still the usual

“what the hell is a Gelbvieh?” question.

• See Thomas and his Cherryburn Gelbvieh herd as part of this year’s Tablelands Better Beef Day. Thomas will have his cattle at the Malanda Showgrounds on 18 August.

Thomas Bewick with some of his herd at his Cherryburn Gelbviehs stud near Ravenshoe

ON LANDthe

Costa Graduate Program

Intake program to boost ag career

A CAREER in agriculture awaits locals who apply for Costa’s 2025 Graduate Intake program that will provide an intensive hands-on and educational experience across key produce groups, departments, locations or functions over a 12-18 month period.

There are three options within the Graduate intake, including a Rotational Graduate Program, Category Graduate Program and Specialised Graduate Positions.

The program provides participants with handson training on Costa’s farms, coupled with leadership and development training.

By being a part of Costa’s graduate intake, individuals can accelerate their career and gain exposure to opportunities for networking across different categories and regions with unprecedented access to senior leaders and guides for development.

Costa Graduate Program member, Emma Knowles, says the program has been the perfect

platform to help develop her skills within the agricultural industry.

“I’ve really benefitted from all the experience and knowledge I’ve gained both in agricultural skills and professional development, and the opportunity to travel to different Costa sites around Australia and a broad range of commodities, all while working in a supportive, welcoming environment,” she said.

“I eagerly look forward for all the opportunities yet to come.”

To qualify, applicants must be in their final year or recently finished a Bachelor’s or postgraduate degree. Of particular interest for Costa are degrees in agricultural science, horticulture, agribusiness, business, with an interest in agri/horticulture, science, with an interest in agri/horticulture, and human resources.

Applications will be open until 15 August. Find out more at www.costagroup.com.au/growyourcareer/graduateprogram

Help protect citrus industry

LOCALS who have citrus trees or orange jasmines on their property are being encouraged to be part of a national program aimed at protecting Australia’s citrus industry.

CitrusWatch is a five-year national program that aims to protect the Australian citrus industry through pest surveillance, training, and research.

As part of CitrusWatch, the team is conducting surveillance for several high priority insect pests, and they need volunteers to step up.

One of the exotic pests they are looking for is the Asian citrus psyllid (ACP), which can cause the serious disease huánglóngbìng (HLB), also known as citrus greening.

HLB is having a devastating impact on overseas orchards, reducing crop yield, killing trees, and causing significant financial losses for growers.

While the Australian citrus industry is free from many harmful pest species affecting other countries, exotic pests such as ACP can travel to Australia via busy trade or passenger routes by “hitchhiking” with imported freight, food and plant material.

If they evade border biosecurity inspections, the next stop could be residential yards near seaports and airports.

This is where the call for volunteers comes in – CitrusWatch wants people who are willing to place a sticky insect trap in one of their trees. The trap must stay in place for two weeks, then it has to be removed and posted to CitrusWatch for analysis by entomologists in Darwin.

If any insect or pest is detected through these means, it will act as an early warning system for authorities.

The program will provide anyone interested in participating with the sticky traps, instructions and pre-paid envelopes for the return of the traps.

For more information or to register go to www.industry.nt.gov.au/industries/primaryindustry/citruswatch

current member Emma Knowles says she is benefitting from the course.

One of the sticky traps that can be placed in your tree to catch pests.

ON LANDthe

Cattle sales roundup

MORE than 2000 head of cattle went through the Mareeba saleyards at the store sale on 1 August, in a “steady” day of activity.

“Although it wasn’t quite as big as our last sale, it was a comfortable number and made for a nice steady day,” Queensland Rural’s Luke Hickmott said.

“It is hard to gauge if the average price per head is necessarily good or not, given the range of cattle and their weights throughout the yards.”

Of the 2,086 head, five were sold in open auction. He also noted that “the heavier feeder steers and heifers were of good weight and quality and received good support”.

SALE RESULTS

• The yard averaged 217.31c/kg, averaging $524.64 per head.

• 64 Bulls averaged 194.4c/kg selling to a top of 268.2c/kg

• 17 Cows averaged 177.8c/kg to a top of 224.2c/kg

• 334 Steers averaged 246.5c/kg selling to a top of 324.2c/kg

• 120 Heifers averaged 186.5c/kg selling to a top of 232.2c/kg

• 426 Yearling bulls averaged 198.1c/kg selling to a top of 298.2c/kg

• 295 Yearling heifers averaged 181.0c/kg selling to a top of 232.2c/kg

• 825 Yearling steers averaged 239.0c/kg selling to a top of 324.2c/kg

• 3+3 Cow and Calf @$1000

• 2 Bobby Calves @$34

Pinata inducted into business hall of fame

THE company behind Mareeba’s only pineapple farm has been inducted into Queensland Business Leaders Hall of Fame for outstanding leadership and innovation in Australia’s food production industry spanning more than 60 years.

Fourth-generation farming business Piñata Farms, which pioneered pineapple production in the Mareeba area, started with a single 26-hectare pineapple farm, growing fresh and cannery fruit at Wamuran, north of Brisbane in the 1960s.

Today, it is Australia’s largest pineapple producer, and a leading multi-fruit producer, growing strawberries, raspberries and Honey Gold mangoes over more than 1,000 hectares around Australia.

It employs some 200 people at any given time and is owned and operated by the Scurr family, led by brothers Gavin and Stephen. Other members of the Scurr family work throughout the business.

Accepting the award at a gala dinner at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre, managing director Gavin Scurr congratulated all past and present inductees, and acknowledged their contribution to Queensland.

“We are humbled and honoured to be recognised in such esteemed company,” he said.

“We have farms around Australia now,

but our homes and hearts are, and always will be in Queensland. It’s a great state to live and work in and we’re proud to be Queensland farmers.

“We appreciate the solid foundation and the values that our parents Geoff and Narelle set for our family in the 1960s, passed on from our grandparents before them.

ReOC: 8298

“Even from a very young age it was instilled in us to focus on quality and do things right the first time. Those same values are now part of our wider company culture and it’s a foundation the next generation can build on.”

Mr Scurr paid tribute to all Piñata Farms employees who have contributed to the company’s growth, success and reputation in the fresh produce industry.

Mareeba-based general manager tropicals Stephen Scurr (left) with son Ben and daughter Courtney Thies.

Frosty weather stats

IT is interesting that the recent frost occurred on the 40th anniversary of the 1984 frosts that were much worse than the recent one in most local areas. The 2007 frosts were also worse than the recent ones in many local areas.

Walkamin recorded a minimum of 5.7°C in the recent frosts. In 2007, 5.0°C was recorded there. However, in 1984, it was only 2.6°C at that location.

In 1984, the frosts were estimated to cause $7 million worth of damage to crops and pastures on the Atherton Tableland. At that time, the screen temperature in the elevated areas was close to 0°C near Atherton and Tolga. Kairi’s lowest minimum measured was -0.5°C.

In 1984, a man in a deep valley near Malanda said he measured an air temperature of -15°C at about 1.5 meters off the ground in an open area. He also said the temperature at sunset was -7°C.

Meteorologists say that such temperatures are possible in some deep valleys in our area under extreme conditions. Minimum air temperature is also lower than minimum screen temperature.

At Herberton, in 1984, a friend also reported an air temperature of -13°C and said the toilets and pipes were frozen in the morning up to 11am.

Walkamin’s weather station has been at the same location and taking temperature records since 1968. Unfortunately, it is the longest currently running weather station run by the BoM on the Atherton Tableland.

Kairi started officially recording temperatures earlier in 1952 but was sadly closed and stopped recording temperatures in 2011. Other BoM weather stations have also closed or been moved. For example, the one in Mareeba township opened in 1952 and stopped recording temperature in 1992 before ceasing rainfall records in 2008.

The current one at Mareeba airport has only been recording since 2000. Atherton’s official weather station was moved three times and now it only records rainfall. Herberton’s official weather station started recording temperature in 1907 and stopped in 1991. It measured rainfall from 1886 to 2015. All this has resulted in an enormous loss of valuable long-term data.

Measurements need to be continued at the

same location to measure climate change. Weather and climate can vary incredibly even within the same town. For example, on some calm nights the temperature in Atherton can vary by up to about 10°C between the lowest and highest places in town.

Atherton’s temperatures were last officially measured at the lowest point in town where the lowest minimum temperatures occur. Before that, they were measured at the CSIRO which is much higher. Halloran’s hill also causes a rain shadow in some parts of Atherton.

There is also such a lack of weather stations in our area. However, I plan to set up some accurate ones as explained in The Express (31/07/24. If anyone is interested in hosting one or helping set them up, I can be contacted on 40954 354 or email richardhole1970@gmail.com.

Richard Hole TOLGA

Existing range road will never be any good

RE “Critical steps to coast access road” (31/07/24). MP Craig Crawford, seriously, you are so totally for modifications to the existing Kuranda Range Road, I think that you have lost sight of the issues that will continue to plague that route to Cairns, no matter what upgrades you do.

Let me suggest that 30 years from now, when traffic volume will probably be double at least, politicians will be in exactly the same situation we are in now.

Building bridges and tunnels on a mountain edge won’t stop rocks and trees being dislodged due to erosion. There will still be the potential for loss of life that we currently face.

Modifications to the Kuranda Range Road will not stop landslides, and if the road is widened, the danger increases.

Mr Crawford, you are flogging a dead horse. Ok, so let’s say your crazy plan goes ahead.

The highway between Smithfield and Portsmith presents further issues that will affect heavy vehicle traffic.

Firstly, flooding at the water ski park closes the highway. Secondly, Thomatis Creek comes to a standstill. Third, the bridge at

Caravonica is single lane, after heavy transport and parents with schoolchildren navigate to school each day.

Then we have heavy vehicles through residential areas we have now and those being developed or on the drawing board.

Thirty years from now, traffic from Mareeba to Portsmith and other industrial and port shipping areas will be horrendous.

For voters to support you when you are displaying behaviour not unlike a headless chook, unable to break the Labour Party rules, is to vote for keeping the State Government as it is.

Your party is the “Master of Red Tape”. Your partners, the Greenies, will be a major part of your problems. The solution is to move all your effort towards an alternate highway that bypasses the range, to the south, as suggested by other prospective politicians.

Dennis Richardson MAREEBA

TRC ‘Veil of secrecy’ violates LG principles

BETWEEN the years 2020-2024, each of the TRC Budget papers carried a 10-year capital works plan which was detailed with each potential project with a nominal cost and the proposed year of works.

Community member associations, chambers of commerce and individual ratepayers could easily see the proposed program and discuss it with their councillor as necessary.

There was a kind of “Works vision” which was readily available to all for the next 10 years.

And then in 2024-25, with the elections out of the way, the “veil of secrecy” began to freefall!

The Budget papers of 2024-25 do not contain any of the detailed information which was a hallmark of the past, but now show only cursory figures under vague headings without any specific detail, physical description making them largely unreadable for the public.

Why is this so? Why would the TRC seek to lower the shroud on the 10-year Capital Works in such a way?

How does anyone get to know what is proposed to go on in the region? Do the councillors actually have all this detail and are going to distribute it to the voters?

There are five stated Principles for Local Government in Queensland. The first is: Transparent and effective processes, and decision-making in the public interest.

This move to restrict information by the TRC violates this first principle.

So, how do you or your group get to know what is planned for the future in your community?

Given that Councillors have approved only the final expenditure figure in the 2425 Budget, does that mean that the CEO and his staff can switch and pick their priorities according to their perception as opposed to community need as was previously approved and publicly reported?

You’ll have to ask your councillor in the full expectation that they will not know!

David Clifton OAM YUNGABURRA

Turn your lights on in foggy weather

AS the nights become cooler, more fog is lingering around the roads during the morning.

Police want to remind motorists to ensure you have the correct lights on for driving in foggy conditions.

Thick fog gives limited visibility and motorists often ignore the risks, and drive with the wrong lights on, or with no lights operating at all.

Here are a couple of tips to help make yourself more visible when driving through fog:

• Do not use high beam, as this will reflect off the fog and back at your vehicle. Use low beam headlights to make you more visible.

• Never drive with just your parking lights on, as they are not reflective enough for other motorists to see you.

• If your vehicle is fitted with fog lights, use them.

Drivers found driving in reduced visibility without the required lights operating and visible during such conditions could receive a traffic infringement notice.

HISTORY UPDATE

MAREEBA COULD HAVE BEEN A STATE CAPITAL

Great headlines. This is an extract from Glenville Pike’s “Conquest of the Ranges.”

In September 1892, the contractors’ locomotive ran to the Barron River at Biboohra, but the bridge was not completed until May 1893. The rail reached Mareeba in August that year.

As soon as construction had begun in Cairns in 1886, there was the likelihood of a new town rising on the coach exchange on the Port Douglas-Herberton road at Granite Creek.

In 1887, Surveyor Alfred Starke laid few blocks for a township on the northern bank of Granite Creek, opposite Eccles & Lloyd’s coach stage & hotel.

In1892, Surveyor Rankin surveyed the town of Mareeba on the southern bank. It was then known that this would be the end of the third section. Who choose the name Mareeba, said to be an Aboriginal word for “meeting of the waters’, is not known, but it must date from 1891.

Back in 1888, agitation was rife for a separate Colony of North Queensland north of just south of Mackay. Something that is little remembered today is that when a site for a capital was discussed Granite Creek was chosen.

Had the petitions then been successful and the North had been erected into a separate colony which would have achieved statehood at Federation in 1901, our history would have been changed and Mareeba, capital of the new State would have been a metropolis today

People from Thornborough and Port Douglas, believing Mareeba had a better future, were among its earliest residents. Callaghan Walsh’s brother, Michael opened a store, Charlie Scherning who made the so called ‘Port Douglas’ packsaddle for the packers, also came to Mareeba and opened his saddlery shop.

Octavious Lannoy also abandoned Port Douglas and packed his press on a bullock team up the Bump Road and started a new paper ,”The Express”, in Mareeba. Jack and Newell based in Herberton, opened their big branch store, built by William Hastie, in 1893. By then Mareeba had a row of shops along one side of Byrne Street, opposite the railway Mareeba railway station with its huge cantilever shelter over the tracks – removed in 1960’s-was built by William Hastie. He erected most of the railway buildings of the Third Section, and later on the Chillagoe line.

The above can also be found, if you are lucky to have a copy of Northern Sun, Vol10 No28 Page 14. Contact the Historical Society of Mareeba 4092 3599 or email sec@mbahistsoc.org.au

Secure Your Future at Stage 13B, Moondani Avenue and Karobean Drive

PROPERTY

Tropical lifestyle, acerage and income

WITH all the privacy you could ever want, one of the best climates in the world, room to move, and a second home, The Pines is well suited to the rural retiree, the city treechanger or absentee traveller.

Away from the busy city life and located in the hinterland from Port Douglas, The Pines offers an enviable rural lifestyle, a cattle herd and income. The rainforest, the beach, the Great Barrier Reef

and the Cairns International Airport are all easily accessible from this quiet farm. The area is 72.31ha (approx.178.6 acres).

The Pines is well located being approximately 30mins to Port Douglas, 45 mins to Mareeba, 1 hour to Daintree and 1 ½ hours’ drive to Cairns.

The feature of the property is the very recently renovated Homestead which is nicely elevated thus providing north

views over grazing paddocks, the shed, cattle yards and dam. A modern 4 bedroom, 2 bathrooms, air-conditioned home with separate office; the Homestead is comprised of two separate buildings connected by an undercover walkway.

Located approximately 500m to the north of the Homestead the 2nd house is a very well presented and recently renovated 3 bedroom,

1 bathroom, air-conditioned home with a high carport/ shed.

Located immediately adjacent to the cattle yards is the large lockable shed currently used for storage of the farm machinery and materials.

The property is fenced into 4 paddocks – 3 each of approx. 40 acres and one of approx. 10 acres. Fencing is 4-barb, in good condition and constructed using timber

Charming and convenient

NEW to the market this home is ready for new owners. Welcome to 17 Anzac Avenue, Mareeba.

The home has a large open plan living area which incorporated the lounge and dining rooms and the kitchen. This area’s size is accentuated by the delightful high-raked ceilings and exposed rafters. This area features split-system air-conditioning, low maintenance vinyl flooring and timber features throughout.

The kitchen is super functional and features electric appliances, a large pantry and plenty of bench space, and the timber look matches the features in the living area.

The home’s convenient design separates the living

areas from the bedrooms through a short hallway. From here there is easy access to the bathroom which has been modernised, and the separate toilet and laundry area.

The three bedrooms are all a good size and feature new vinyl plank flooring and all have ceiling fans while two of them boast extra large built-in wardrobes.

Outside the yard is fenced, and there is a small patio on the eastern side of the home.

There is a large single carport at the front as well which provides for easy access straight into the living area.

Features Include:

• Three bedrooms, one bathroom home

• Open plan living area with

split system air-conditioning

• Large lounge and dining area with raked ceilings

• Timber features throughout and exposed rafters

• Timber kitchen with electric appliances and large pantry

• Modern bathroom with separate toilet

• New vinyl planks to bedrooms

• Large rooms, two with built in wardrobes

• Fenced back yard, small patio eastern facing

Address: Price: Agent:

Contact:

• 839 m2 corner allotment convenient to town

Just minutes from town on the sought after Eastern Side of town, properties in this area don’t come much more affordable than this.

For more information or to book a private inspection, call Remo Esposito on 0401 969 473 or email remo@crmareeba.com

17 Anzac Avenue, MAREEBA

$386,000 Remo Esposito Central Realty 0401 969 473 or 4092 2232

strainers and timber fence posts. The sale includes 40 breeding cows with progeny at foot, 1 Brahman bull and some plant and machinery. For more information contact our Agent Morgan Brennan on 0407 730 450 today. Visit www.raywhiteruralatherton.com.au/L29531942

Address: Price: Agent: Contact:

1297 Mossman Mt Molloy Rd, JULATTEN $2,070,000 inc. cattle plant and machinery Morgan Brennan Ray White Atherton 0407 730 450 or 40917 111

DISCOVER the perfect blend of comfort and convenience in this delightful home located in the heart of Tarzali, just 10 minutes outside Malanda. This well presented family home is ready for its new owners and with neighbours on only one side, privacy isn’t an issue.

Property Features:

• Uniquely designed with an undercover breezeway separating the lounge/kitchen from the bedrooms, perfect for entertaining or extra living space

Ravenshoe cottage

Creek, this home offers a wonderful package of country charm with opportunity to add value by carrying out some updates. Renovate or live in ‘as is’.......either way this property has the potential to provide a solid investment by placing on the rental market, or let your creative juices flow to create the quintessential modern Queenslander full of character and charm.

• Practical kitchen with ample storage and breakfast bar

Address: Price: Agent:

• Three Bedrooms with built ins and fans

• Two bathrooms

• Large linen cupboard and internal laundry

• Two undercover storage areas for the lawn mower and garden tools

• 1389m2 flat block with veggie garden and established plants

• Two 30,000 L water tanks

Call Janine today at Elders Real Estate Tablelands on 0407 032 422 to arrange an inspection.

$449,000

EXCLUSIVE to Janine Rielly Elders Real Estate Tablelands 0407 032 422

Contact: 15 Third Avenue, TARZALI

•

Acreage like this is getting harder and harder to find. This stunning acreage property offers a unique opportunity for those seeking tranquillity, space, and a chance to create their dream lifestyle.

This 13.98 acre vacant allotment has 180 degree rural views and presents endless possibilities. The perfect spot to build your dream home or a weekender.

Property Features:

• Cleared

NESTLED in the heart of the Northview Heights estate, this premier location offers spectacular views that redefine the meaning of tranquility and exclusivity. Prepare to be captivated by a lifestyle where elegance meets functionality.

Situated on a vast 1,078m2 landscaped and manicured allotment, this rendered block home is a testament to refined taste and meticulous planning. The fenced backyard provides a secure haven for your family, ensuring privacy and peace of mind.

Step inside, and you’ll discover a family home designed with comfort in mind.

Three built-in bedrooms, each equipped with air conditioning, await, with the master bedroom featuring an ensuite and spacious walk-in robe—a retreat within your sanctuary.

The heart of this residence is the open plan living and kitchen area, seamlessly blending modern design with functionality. The kitchen boasts stone benchtops, a large 900mm gas cooktop,

and an electric oven, offering a perfect space for culinary enthusiasts. Abundant storage space ensures a clutter-free environment, while a formal dining area adds a touch of sophistication to family gatherings.

Work and leisure seamlessly coexist with an office nook for productivity and a sewing bench in the laundry for creative pursuits. The thoughtful design extends to a double bay remote garage with a storage room, providing ample space for your vehicles and belongings.

The interior charms continue with a tiled floorplan, and a U-shaped design that maximizes space and natural light.

Front patios overlooking the Tablelands invite you to start your day with breathtaking

views, while the rear covered patio beckons for memorable evenings of entertaining guests.

Marvel at the stone retaining walls that not only add to the aesthetic appeal but also serve a functional purpose with integrated drainage. This residence is a harmonious blend of beauty and practicality, a home where every detail has been carefully considered.

Don’t miss the opportunity to make this house your home. Contact Exclusive Marketing Agent Kaydee Chatfield 0417 468 941 at Main St Real Estate now to schedule a viewing and experience the pinnacle of living in the best estate in Atherton.

Ambience, Character, Location

WELCOME home to 23 Beatrice Street! Located on the beautiful Atherton Tablelands, just over an hours’ drive from Cairns on a generous 1,012sqm, central to the CBD and within walking distance to the Atherton hospital, doctors surgery, dentists and local schools, to name a few.

This gorgeous Queenslander was built in the 1930’s and underwent a complete renovation in 2016, having an extension to rear of the home to incorporate the master bedroom and ensuite as well as a reroof. In 2022 the restoration was completed and just look at her now…..WOW!!!!

The ambience of this character filled home explodes your senses as soon as you walk through the front door. Take your time to look around and immerse yourself in the surroundings as there is a lot to admire and appreciate.

Farm Living on the TABLELANDS

Styled to perfection and featuring the following:

• Modern galley kitchen incorporating a hidden European laundry; ample storage, stone benchtops, gas cooktop & electric freestanding oven, rangehood, dishwasher, breakfast bar & banquette seating

• Open plan living and dining with numerous sitting areas, wood heater and air-conditioning

• Master bedroom with gorgeous natural light and floor to ceiling sheer drapes, ensuite & large walk in robe

• Two spacious bedrooms; one with walk in robe

• High ceilings, original timber

Address: Price: Agent:

Contact: 23 Beatrice Street, ATHERTON Contact Agent EXCLUSIVE to Shellie Nightingale Nightingale Real Estate 0429 966 038 OPEN HOME

Saturday 10th Aug 10am to 11am

floors and stunning coloured glass casement windows throughout, along with Arterial light fixtures

• Private staged timber deck to enjoy the great outdoors, immaculate landscaped gardens & birdlife

• Powered 6m x 5m garage/ shed with concrete floor Photo doesn’t tell the whole story, come and check this one out for yourself or have a detailed property report emailed to you.

Contact Shellie Nightingale at Nightingale Real Estate Tablelands.

19. The body of expressive culture shared by a particular group of people, culture or subculture. (8)

21. An establishment or hospital department where outpatients are given medical treatment or advice, especially of a specialist nature. (6) 23. Not honourable in character or purpose. (7)

24. Something written down with concrete reality. (2,5)

25. Having or showing a pleasant, kindly disposition; amiable: a warm, person. (4-11)

DOWN

1. To engage in undue or extreme simplification. (15)

2. The rank or title of an earl. (7)

3. An autonomous community of Spain. (9)

4. Speed in walking, running, or moving. (4)

ACROSS

1. A situation wherein the value of a company’s capital is worth more than its total assets. (15)

9. Not even or regular in pattern or movement; unpredictable. (7)

10. A power-driven aircraft that is kept buoyant by a body of gas. (7)

11. A seat fastened on the back of a horse or other animal for riding. (6)

12. Used to express exhilaration, especially when leaping from a great height or moving at speed. (8)

14. A quantity expressing a body’s tendency to resist angular acceleration. (6,2,7)

16. An Italian polymath of the High Renaissance who was active as a painter, draughtsman, engineer, scientist, theorist, sculptor, and architect. (8,2,5)

New emotional connections can be made through business contacts. If they want help that’s great, but if they try to take credit for your work, you will have to set them straight. Travel will stimulate your need to experience new things. Your lucky day is Sunday.

You need time to put your house in order and sort out what you are going to do about your personal direction. You will drive your emotional partner crazy this week. Take the time to help old friends or relatives who have had a stroke of bad luck. Your lucky day is Monday.

Work on getting ahead by picking up added skills. Don’t let your health suffer because of worry. Talk to someone you trust. Travel for business will not only bring you valuable information but also profits. Do your job and don’t ask for favours. Your lucky day is Saturday.

You can get the attention of important individuals but it might not be the time to get them to help or to back your ideas. Don’t let your partner put you down. Chances to express your ideas and beliefs can bring popularity as long as you’re not arrogant. Your lucky day is Thursday.

5. A wind blowing steadily towards the equator. (5,5)

6. Played with a slow tempo and dignified style. (5)

7. German term for blacksmith and/or metalworker. (7)

8. The body of diplomats representing other countries in a particular state. (10,5)

13. A feeling of surprise, awe, and joy. (10)

15. Wrap up, cover, or surround completely. (9)

17. A large city in the southern US state of Florida (7)

18. Consisting of nine. (7)

20. A method of recording bodily movement (as in a dance.) (5)

22. A hinged, sliding, or revolving barrier at the entrance to a building, room, or vehicle, (4)

Your tendency to take on too much will end in fatigue. Opportunities to make financial gains will develop through your connections. You will be highly entertaining when in contact with your lover. Don’t be shy. Your lucky day is Monday.

Some time spent with that special someone should be your intent. Try to bend but not give in completely. Be very careful while travelling in foreign countries. You can make personal changes that will enhance your reputation and self confidence. Your lucky day is Friday.

Travel could include delays and other minor problems. Don’t be too critical. Don’t settle for less than the best. Get together with friends and do something entertaining but not too expensive. Your lucky day this week will be Saturday.

You can make money if you get involved in a conservative financial prospect presented to you. You will learn a great deal about yourself if you go somewhere secluded. Your emotions will be off concerning recent encounters. Your lucky day is Monday.

Take a close look at any contracts you’ve signed in order to be sure exactly where you stand. You are best to keep hard feelings to yourself. Be sure to cover all the necessary groundwork before signing binding contracts. Your lucky day is Wednesday.

You can make amends by taking them somewhere special. Control your anger. You may want to take another look at the investment you are about to make. You can do well on stage or behind the scenes, the choice is yours. Your lucky day this week will be Monday.

Your personal secrets may be revealed if you let co-workers in on your family dilemmas. Cultural activities will prove to be quite enlightening for everyone. Find out if they have other commitments. Your lucky day is Friday.

You can expect insincere gestures of friendliness this week. Your communication skills are at an all-time high. Your temper could be short if someone criticizes your efforts. This may not be the time to lend or borrow. Your lucky day this week will be Sunday.

BIRTHDAYS

Happy 80th Birthday Dad, Nonno DOMENICO ISABELLA 10~08~2024

but you are always near. You’re so loved, so missed and so very dear.

In Loving Memory Of Ian Stanley JESSOP

Late of Mareeba, formerly of Atherton.

Passed away on the 1st of August, 2024.

Aged 87 years.

Much loved Husband of Florence. Loving Father of Pat and Brenda. Loved Father-in-Law to Paul and Allan. Adored Granddad to Jessica, Heather, Olivia and Callum. Much loved Great Granddad to Bailey and Isaac, Clayton, Dallas and Heath, Roman and Mataya. Will be sadly missed by all family and friends.

Guilfoyle Funeral Services Chapels, Crematorium & Memorial Gardens

Wishing you a very Happy Birthday. Have a wonderful day.

Thank you for everything you do for us. We appreciate it.

Best wishes, Love Wife Ida, Children, Grandchildren & Families.

2018 Toyota Hilux Dual-Cab Ute Manual Diesel Bull bar, UHF, tow bar, reverse camera, LED light bar, window tinting, 2x Anderson plugs, mats, seat covers, Granite tray odometer 194459.

Phone Anthony 0409 480 761

MOVING SALE

Applications are invited for a full-time Legal Secretary position with David Anthony Solicitors.

RESPONSIBILITIES & DUTIES:

• Provide quality service to all clients

• Manage incoming calls, emails, mail and direct communications to the appropriate persons

• Perform administrative duties including document preparation, filing, general file management, and calendar management

• Provide administrative and clerical support to the Solicitors and Conveyancing Clerk of the firm

REQUIREMENTS:

• Proficient typing & computer skills

• Strong verbal and written communication skills

• Excellent attention to detail and organisational skills

• Legal experience will be an advantage but is not a prerequisite

To apply, please email: reception@dasmareeba.com.au.

School Bus Supervisor

Micro-chipped and received all worming, flea treatment. He is now ready to find his forever home. His adoption fee is $330.

BUTCHER

To provide direct supervision of all students travelling on a school bus to ensure safe operations.

Hours of work are 4 hours per day (7am – 9am / 2pm – 4pm). The successful candidate will:

• Be flexible

• Have strong communication skills and the ability to manage student behaviour during bus trips

• Keep and maintain accurate daily records

• Hold a current Working with Children Certificate (Blue Card) and Driver Licence

• Hold a current First Aid / CPR Certificate or have the ability to attain

• Have full work rights in Australia

Previous experience working with children is an preferred but not essential.

If you believe you meet the required skills and experience, then do not delay and APPLY TODAY!

ALL applications are to be emailed to: maggattera@bigpond.com

Atherton: 4091 2147 Mareeba: 4092 1013 Local Family Owned & “Entrusted for over 70 years” www.guilfoylefunerals.com.au

FOR SALE

POSITION VACANT

And must include a cover letter and resume with at least two references.

TRADE SERVICES

CLASSIFIEDS

Well Women’s Clinics

(These clinics are available to Medicare eligible clients)

Service includes Cervical Screening Tests (Pap Smears), Sexual Health Screening, Breast Awareness, also info on Contraception, Continence, Menopause, Lifestyle Issues, Bowel Health etc.

All services are provided by a specially trained Qld Health Women’s Health Nurse.

Atherton Community Health

Tuesday 6th August

Phone 4091 0263 to make an appointment

Millaa Millaa Health Centre

Wednesday 7th August

Phone 4097 2223 to make an appointment

Mareeba Hospital

Thursday 15th August

Phone 4092 9311 to make an appointment

NOTICE OF PRAECIPE

Nolene Gay Bradshaw © of Mareeba, Queensland, is not a voluntary transactor in commerce, and is the irrefutable Holder in Due Course of my properties and all associated copyright protected Trade Names since unrebutted lawful Reconveyance to the Land and Soil jurisdiction of Terra Australis also known as the Commonwealth of Australia Public Recorder Number RPP44 63900 05100 32268 14602, Proclamation Date 24 June, 2024. Thus severing usufruct subjugation ties with the occupying corporate government of Australia in its entirety.

Immediately cease and desist any further infringement upon these copyright protected financial instruments and cease and desist misaddressing Nolene Gay Bradshaw © in fraudulent debased Dog-Latin, GLOSSA.

RENTAL PROPERTIES WANTED

Mareeba Community Housing Company is seeking 2- and 3-bedroom rental properties in Mareeba for the Community Rent Scheme Program. Properties must be in good condition to meet minimum housing standards. The benefits include guaranteed rents, nil management fees, qualified tradespersons, and professional property management team. Phone 4092 6899 for further details and Lessor’s packages.

SPORT

Ravenshoe and District Chamber of Commerce will be holding their ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING On the 3rd Tuesday of August All are welcome!

We are also compiling a Business Directory for our town.

Date: 20th August, 2024

Start Time: 6.00pm

Location: Ravenshoe Hotel (Top Hotel) E: ravenshoechamber@outlook.com

Fishy business a winner for kids

BUDDING local fisher, Huntah Baldwin, won the Catfish category of the Qld Kids Fishing Classic held over the recent school holidays with two fish measuring a total of 1430mm.

Almost 300 from across the state entered and logged a mammoth 3,284 fish which included 103 different fish species.

“I like that I got to go exploring and find new fishing spots and catch new fish for the competition,” Huntah said. “I caught new PB’s (Golden Trevally, Mangrove Jack and Catfish) and the best thing I liked was that I got to make new friends and we got to go camping.”

The QKFC is held every school holiday and is run through an app, so entrants can fish just about anywhere in Queensland.

There are 12 species categories including freshwater, saltwater and pest species. Over $6000 in prizes are available.

The event is organised by Samantha Beckmann, cofounder of 2 Bent Rods. Tickets for the next Qld Kids Fishing Classic in the September school holidays are on sale now for $30 and can be purchased at https://events.humanitix.com/ qkfc-qld-kids-fishing-classicseptember-2024 Huntah Baldwin with a winning catfish.

The current Atherton Cricket Club nets are in need for an upgrade.

Upgrade set for cricket club

A much-needed upgrade to the Atherton cricket grounds is underway, with the club securing $112,844 for new nets and pitches.

The major project will be completely self-funded by the Atherton Cricket Club through various grants and fundraising efforts, as a way to improve the grounds ahead

of the 2024 cricket season. The upgrades will take place at both Morrow Park in Tolga and Loder Park. While improving safety for players, the enhanced facilities are also set to help enhance skill development, increase participation and attract new high-level talents to the club.

SPORT

Mareeba slams tournament Big crowd, great showcase of local Spirit Muay Thai

MAREEBA tennis players have dominated in a recent regional competition that saw the club win all three divisions.

Mareeba Tennis Club hosted the annual Savannah Slam tournament recently involving teams from across the region including Innisfail, Cairns, Atherton and Malanda.

The tournament required teams to compete in six matches throughout the day, before determining a finals playoff.

At the event, Mareeba proved to be too good, coming out on top in all three divisions.

“It’s a quite competitive day of tennis,” club president Mark Keating said.

“Although it’s a good source of revenue for the club, it’s just good to see the facility being used and enjoyed.”

THE second show of the Spirit Muay Thai competition kicked off at the International Club on Saturday with a huge turn-out of competitors and onlookers.

SMT Gym Mareeba owners and trainers Rosario and Salvatore Signorino were over the moon at the 350-strong crowd and the performances of the local fighters.

“It has been an amazing show – a big crowd of people, the community has been amazing, and our local fighters showed big hearts and how tough they are,” Rosario said. “There were some very entertaining fights.

“The event was a great showcase for Muay Thai, I’m so proud of everyone.”

Muay Thai, sometimes referred to as Thai boxing, is a Thai martial art and full-contact combat sport that uses stand-up striking, sweeps, and various clinching techniques. The discipline is known as the "Art of eight limbs", as it is characterised by the combined use of fists, elbows, knees and shins.

FIGHT RESULTS

N1 Heath Haughton vs Tom Troughton / Heath win

N2 Sam Doidge vs Andrew Roussetty / Sam win by technical knockout (TKO)

N3 Liam Markham vs Serji Kravchenko / Serji win by tko

N4 George Clingan vs Bridget Vassallo / Bridget win by tko

N5 Jacques Roman vs Dima Kravchenko / Dima win by unanimous decision

N6 Noah Hitchens vs Jett McDowall / Draw

N7 Lachlan Sheanan vs Jarod Price Lachlan win by split decision

N8 Charlie Mann vs Angus Haendel / Charlie win by tko

N9 George Kelly vs William Forster /George win by decision

N10 Joshua King vs Layne Offner / Joshua win

N11 Samuel Brighton vs Conor Bell Conor win by tko

N 12 Justin O’Brien vs Bryan Wyborn / Justin win by stoppage

Mareeba wins soccer cup

MAREEBA has grabbed victory in the second consecutive Mareeba Moriconi Bomben Soccer Cup on Saturday night as part of the Cairns Italian Festival. Karl Srhoj scored Mareeba’s only goal early in the first half, but it was enough to secure the victory 1-0 over rivals Leichhardt at their home ground. The event is always well attended, with lots of advice coming from the sideline to the over 45s team, which included players like Mareeba’s 67-yearold Lui Serafini who was on the field for the entire match.

Mareeba Mayor Angela Toppin and Cairns Mayor Amy Eden, along with Cairns Italian Festival president Claudio De Bartolomeo, kicked off the match.

Next year, the Cup will return to Mareeba’s turf as part of the 2025 Cairns Italian Festival.

A Grade Men’s winners “Triple C’s” - From left, Carl Martens, Callum Gale, Chris Maisel

Ladies winners “Green Gems” – From left, Alice Palmer, Sharon Crudeli, Kate Favaro, Narelle Duncan

B Grade Mens winners “Chamaradu” – From left, Charlie Martens, Matthew Palmer, Duane Alldersea

Tom Troughton after the first fight.

Angus Haendel (left) in an exciting fight with Charlie Mann.

Lauchlan Sheanan (left) takes on Jarod Price in a tight match.

SPORT

Small town strongest man in FNQ

BY KONNOR FURBER

MAREEBA local Jack Wyatt pulled out the big guns to secure a win at the annual NQ Strongest event.

The Australian Strongman Alliance (ASA) affiliated event took place at the Nexus Performance Gym in Townsville on 27 July.

The event was coined NQ’s Strongest two years ago after previously being named Townsville’s Strongest Man, which Jack had also won in the lower bodyweight division.

After competing in the NQ’s Strongest heavyweight division (105kg and up) last year and placing second, Jack returned to the competition wanting to make his hometown and family proud.

Jack has been in the weightlifting world and training for over 10 years since he finished high school in 2012. However, the events for NQ’s Strongest are posted 12 weeks out from competition date, giving Jack three months to train specifically for the events.

One of the events required Jack to pull a 105 series Landcruiser 12 metres while sitting down. Being a boy from the bush, he trained by pulling his own 80 series Landcruiser, which is similar in weight.

Another event was the Silver Dollar Deadlift, which is set up in a way that requires lifters to pull the bar from around their knees and up, rather

Second-half hat trick not enough

AFTER what turned out to be a very physical game, the Mareeba Gladiators suffered an unlucky loss to the Cairns Kangaroos, losing 32-22 at home at the weekend.

With strong tackles that could be heard from the grandstands, two sin bins and 10 tries throughout the game, Sunday afternoon at Mareeba’s Davies Park was nothing short of eventful.

Kangaroos started quickly, scoring their first try in the seventh minute of the opening half and led 22-6 at half-time.

Thanks to a second half hat-trick from Mareeba’s Trezman Banjo, the Gladiators were able to shorten the margin between themselves and the Kangaroos, however it wasn’t enough to get them into a position to come away with a second-half comeback.

“The boys started well yesterday and were probably the better team for the first 30 minutes, although we let in two tries in the last few minutes which really hurt us,” Mareeba A grade coach and player Chris Sheppard said.

“Second half, I was really proud of the effort shown to fight back. Down 26-6, the boys ripped in, scored two tries and had two disallowed to get back to 26-16. And with less than 10 to go, both teams scored one more each to finish the game off at 32-22.”

Keripo Gutchen-Gela was chosen as Mareeba’s man of the match as a result of scoring the first try for his team, his heavy contact tackling and his positive attitude.

When accepting his prize, Keripo spoke to the opposition about the game.

“All that banter and stuff on the field, that’s just part of it. Come for a beer after,” he said.

Mareeba’s final game of the season will be this Saturday at home against the Mossman Sharks.

The gates at Davies Park will be opening at 1.30pm and the Mareeba Masters or “old boys” match will be starting the day off at 3.30pm, followed by the reserve grade at 4.30pm and finally the A grade game at 6pm.

than down around their shins, allowing them to lift a heavier weight.

Jack’s best lift in this event was an impressive 400kg.

Winning this competition has qualified Jack for nationals, however he won’t be competing in that.

“I only really care about North Queensland’s strongest man. I grew up here, I’ve got the Mareeba postcode tattooed on my back, I just love Mareeba,” he said.

“Someone from Mareeba having the NQ’s Strongest Man title is pretty cool I think.”

With his home-town’s postcode literally on his back and winning on his mind, Jack dug deep and managed to earn the title of North Queensland’s strongest man, doing it mainly for his mother and his younger brother, Cole, who sadly passed away in 2020.

“I just wanted to do it for myself, do it for my family, for Mum, and for Cole,” Jack said.

With Jack currently working at Mareeba State High School, he discussed the importance of what it actually means to be a “strong man”.

“I try to be a strong, respectful figure at the school and that can help the kids by setting a good example,” he said.

“Being strong is about supporting people, not putting others down. If you’re strong, you should help people.”

Jack completing a lift during one of the events that earned him the title of NQ’s Strongest Man.

Trezman Banjo on his way to the tryline for one of three he scored in the second half in Sunday’s game

Ladies proud of season

THE Roosters Women’s team has failed to clinch the 2024 FNQRL Women’s premiership cup after going down to top team Kangarroos on Saturday afternoon at Barlow Park.

But the girls are proud of how far they have come this season and walked away with their heads held high.

The team reached the grand final after winning the semi-final against the Roos who had been undefeated until then. While the Roosters gave it all they had on the big day, the Roos clinched their second consecutive premiership winning 32-6.

Teesha Potts scored a try and a conversion for the Roosters but the Roos dominated, particularly Hagiga Mosby who crossed the line three times for her team.

Roosters coach Paul Stephens said while the women were understandably disappointed, they know they have achieved much

more this season than they expected.

“I said to them after the game that, ‘if at the start of the season, you had to bet everything you owned that you would be in the grand final, I reckon none of you would have bet it’.

“I told them ‘you have all come further than what you thought you would’.”

He said the Roos was a “very good” side that featured some top players including an ex-Broncos player and nearly all the Cairns reps players, creating a team that others may think they can’t overcome.

Stephens says the success of the Roosters women’s side this year is already starting to attract interest from other women in the community.

“Hopefully that happens, we had a bit of talk throughout the year from people wanting to get involved once we started to win,” he said.

Mareeba U19s through to finals

A LIMITED bench and a tough rival led the U19 Gladiator’s to take an unfortunate loss of 28-16 to the Cairns Kangaroo’s on Sunday’s home game in Mareeba.

The Gladiator’s were down 12-10 at halftime but could only return serve with one try to the Kangaroo’s three, mid-way through the second half.

Roosters captain May Oppermann was in full flight during the grand final game on Saturday. IMAGE: Vili Photography.

“There are some that say they want to come to training and give it a go – some of these women haven’t played league and they see other girls playing it and they want to try training first and get a bit of contact before considering having a game.”

Stephens says he will stay on as coach for 2025 and is looking forward to the team benefiting from the experience they have gained this season.

He believes most of the Roosters players will back up for the 2025 competition.

“We’re a very young side, and they will have learned from this year,” he said.

Mareeba girls win grand final

THE MAREEBA Gladiator’s U17 Girls team overcame an 18-6 halftime deficit to come back and defeat the Innisfail Leprechaun’s 22-18 in an intense grand final win over the weekend.

try in the final minute, it was a very, very close game,” said vice president Steven Gear.

Currently sitting in fourth place on the ladder, the Mareeba U19s will be the only mens team Mareeba has competing in finals footy.

The first round of the semi-finals will begin on 17 August.

The U19s have a bye next weekend and, regardless of their loss over the weekend, have already cemented themselves into finals contention.

With the popularity of women’s rugby league on the rise in Australia, the young Gladiator’s women stamped their authority on the rest of the competition with three unanswered tries in the second half of the grand final, showcasing the “Mareeba spirt” of “small town, big heart”.

Mareeba’s Chloe MacKenzie earned herself “player of the final” scoring one try and putting in a gutsy effort to help her team on this momentous occasion.

“They won the game with a

“The girls had a rocky start but dug deep in the second half and came back from 18-16 in the final minutes. The game was a great demonstration of attitude, determination, hard work and skill that these girls have shown throughout the season,” he said.

“It wouldn’t have been possible without the management and coaching staff who helped them get to the grand final.

“We would also like to welcome any girls, of all ages, who would like to play footy in the 2025 season to please contact the club.”

Small town... Big heart!

SPORT

The

Resounding win for Roosters

A RESOUNDING win by the Atherton Roosters over the Tully Tigers on Saturday night put the cherry on top of the club’s milestone and reunion weekend.

The 42-10 thumping at Mungalli Creek Dairy Stadium was the perfect performance for the reunion weekend and has kept the Roosters primed for the 2024 FNQ Rugby League finals race.

With one round remaining, the Roosters will finish in fourth or fifth depending on results from this weekend’s games before the start of the finals series on 17 August.

Cairns Brothers, Ivanhoes, Innisfail, Kangaroos, Atherton and Yarrabah will be in the top six finals mix.

On Saturday, the Roosters set a strong precedent in defence which allowed their attack to flow smoothly off the back of it.

In front of a bumper premiers reunion crowd, the Roosters led 22-4 at the break before going on with the job in the second stanza to claim the two premiership points.

Fullback Wes Walker entertained with three length-of-the-field solo try scoring efforts.

Coach Joel Riethmuller was happy with the team’s efforts and is hopeful that the boys can notch up another victory in the last match of the home and away rounds against Edmonton at Mungalli Creek

Dairy Stadium on Sunday afternoon.

“We just have to keep winning and it will take care of itself,” he said.

“The boys played very well and it was good in front of the ‘old boys’ who were there for the reunion.

“If we turn up and play footy, we’ll put ourselves in a good position to win at the weekend.”

Depending on what happens with other matches, the Roosters could end up in fourth or fifth spot on the ladder.

“I think we’ve got to win any way, we don’t want to leave it to the gods,” he said.

The Senior Roosters game against Edmonton will start at 3pm.

Bulls’ reversal of fortune

MAREEBA United showed its comeback style on Saturday with a 4-2 win over the Lions at Leichhardt football ground.

In a thrilling match, the Bulls neatly reversed their fortunes, after their 2-4 loss against the Lions in round 13 of the FQPL Far North & Gulf back in June.

Steven Cater was on fire kicking the first of his two goals for the night, with Wayne Srhoj netting a second goal early in the first half.

The Lion’s Conor Meredith answered, but Dylan Cummings kept the Bulls momentum going for a third goal and Cater consolidated the lead with his second shot of the night taking the game to a solid 4-1.

A last-ditch goal by substitute Blake Strahan brought the Lions to a respectable finish, but it was too late to dim the Bulls’ Edge Hill Tigers at Lindsay Australia Stadium on Saturday night at 7pm, Field 1.

The Women’s team had set the bar high on Friday night at Jeff Pezzutti Park with a 2-1 victory over Leichhardt.

Coach Christian Mukadi said the team played very well, with a solid performance.

“They really worked together, which we have been focusing on, our collective play,” he said. Both goals were taken by Blake Veschetti the first an open goal and the second a penalty after midfield Samantha Madrid was shut down after she took the ball into the box.

“Next week’s game is now a high priority and if we win, it will guarantee us a position in the top four,” Christian added. The Bulls will square up to the Edge Hill Tigers on Friday night, 9 August, at 8.30pm at Lindsay Australia Stadium.

Senior Roosters first grade played in a specially designed guernsey for the reunion on Saturday night.

3.2 litre turbo diesel, automatic, Norweld tray with drawer, bull bar, tow bar, 6 months rego, 12 months warranty.