The Express Newspaper 22 May 2024

Past Dimbulah Lions Festival Queens Danae Tosoni (2022), 1988 winner Lucia Pozzebon (nee Fantin), 1975 Queen Cathy Fabris (nee Evans) and 1974’s Giannina Bugno (nee Tosoni) bestow wisdom to 2024 Queen entrants Laura Westwood and Chelsea DeLai.

The very first Dimbulah queen, Penny Bartholomew, was crowned in 1972.

Workshop to upskill community clubs

TABLELANDS Regional Council is offering a free face-to-face workshop to build capacity in community groups and sport and recreation clubs in our local government area.

The half-day Club Development Program includes governance and incorporation including recent legislation changes, cultural awareness, volunteer recruitment and engagement, and conflict management.

“We’re providing this workshop to build knowledge, enthusiasm and capability, and attendees will gain valuable skills to build a solid committee framework, increase membership and volunteer engagement, and become more sustainable,” Deputy Mayor Cr Dave Bilney said.

“If you’re part of a group or club executive, this opportunity is one you cannot afford to miss.”

The workshop will be delivered by CPR Group from 10.30am-3pm on Sunday 26 May at the Coordination Centre, 15 Vernon Street in Atherton (lunch provided).

Places for the workshop are limited so ensure you register at www.trc.qld.gov. au/club-development by Thursday 23 May.

Emily cooks to keep Dolly’s Dream alive

A MISSION to stop bullying as part of Do It For Dolly Day has motivated 15-year-old Mareeba State High School student Emily Curcio to bake for a good cause.

After 14-year-old Dolly Everett tragically took her own life in 2018 as a result of continuous cyberbullying, the Dolly’s Dream charity was created to raise money and awareness for bullying prevention and online safety.

Emily has unfortunately seen the effects cyberbullying has had on her friends and was determined to raise as much money as possible through her cake business “Emily’s Creations”.

Emily ended up selling over 500 homemade cupcakes and raising $1200.

“I have a few friends with stories similar to Dolly’s, and I have raised money for multiple charities in the past, and Dolly’s Dream was next on the list,” she said.

“This year, I knew I had to make it happen, so I sent out flyers and order forms and ended up getting over 30 orders and had to make over 500 cupcakes.

“There are so many people out there struggling and don’t have the courage to speak up. I can see some of my own friends struggling, and I don’t want them to be next.”

To support Emily in her fundraising, message her Facebook page “Emily’s Creations” or donate directly to Dolly’s Dream at www.dollysdream.org. au

Emily Curcio with her “Do it for Dolly” cupcakes.

Avocado industry in crisis

Thousands of trees bulldozed as prices plummet

BY BRIGITTE DALEY

THOUSANDS of mature avocado trees are being bulldozed across the region as the market price for the fruit plummets and farmers struggle to keep up with rising costs.

According to growers, the price per tray for the fruit, which still fetches top dollar in city cafes, is half what it used to be due to the oversupply in Australia, while the cost of freight, labour, chemicals and fees have vastly risen, leaving farmers with no choice but to bulldoze their trees and start afresh.

Mareeba avocado grower Ron Blundell, who has been farming avocados since the early 1980s, said profitability was at its lowest level ever.

Mr Blundell is currently bulldozing 1500 mature trees out, while other growers nearby are getting rid of around 3500 trees.

“I am very concerned about the avocado industry on the Tablelands - I think it’s lived its day of being viable,” he said.

“Income is going down, costs are going up at a rapid rate, you just can’t continue like that, so I’ve made the decision to cease the avocado operation side of my business.

“The prices used to be $30-$40 per tray, now they are $15-$20 per tray.

“Freight has doubled in the last five years and costs such as fuel, freight, chemicals, packing, fees and charges, commission and levies have all risen significantly.

“HASP and Freshcare fees which were $700 per year a while ago have now shot up to $4000 per year.

“I feel sorry for young growers who

have substantial financial commitments.”

Another grower described the state of the avocado industry on the Tablelands as the worst it had ever been.

“This season has been the worst of my entire lifetime,” he said.

He said the combination of high rainfall and continual wet weather had caused trees to die as a result of Phytophthora root rot and fruit to deteriorate, with 80% of his crop lost due to the conditions.

“Mum

“I received over 900mm on my farm in December 2023 and, in January, I could see trees beginning to be affected,” the grower said.

“By the end of February, they had lost all their leaves. That was it.

“I will be forced to bulldoze out 3000 trees and I know of several other growers who are in exactly the same position.

“I'm aware of another grower who has already bulldozed out 4000 trees and another who has bulldozed out a

significant number of trees.”

In addition to the weather, the grower said the market was now flooded with the product due to the expansion of farms in our region as well as in other Australian states.

“There are too many avocados being planted with large corporate farms also being involved,” the grower said.

“Too many avocados, along with fruit that has been ‘less than ideal’ due to the continual wet weather has caused the price to crash.

“When avocados are $1.00 or $1.50, farmers are losing money.

“Up until three years ago, prices were brilliant, there was money to be made - now we are losing money when we pick avocados so they are not even worth picking.

“For the enormous amount of time, money and effort that goes into it, there is no money in the exercise.

“Unfortunately, the only time we get the right money is when there’s a disaster and produce is short.”

Growers like Mr Blundell now have to determine what, if any, crop they will plant to replace the avocadoes.

He said when growers have had trees in the ground for a long time it was a difficult process to “just change to something else” and options could be limited for them.

“I have decided to put that land back into cattle and limes,” Mr Blundell said.

Some growers are considering other possible options such as pumpkins.

Export markets, although potentially advantageous, are not considered to be the “silver bullets” for the crisis situation which Tablelands growers are currently facing.

“Export prices are the same as local market prices, they are not more,” a grower said.

“When you export you don’t get any more money for your produce, it just takes some of the pressure off the local market.”

Despite the farmers losing on price, avocados are still a highly-prized item in city cafes, with prices of between $12-$25 for the popular “Smashed Avo on toast”.

Mareeba farmer Ron Blundell with some of the mature avocado trees on his property being bulldozed.

Jacqui named finalist in state award

LOCAL mortgage broker Jacqui Webb is up against some of Queensland’s best as a finalist in the Mortgage and Financial Association of Australia’s Regional Finance Broker Awards.

Starting Ignite Financial in 2019, Jacqui was shocked to be named a finalist.

“I have built a business which prioritises the well-being of my team, and the enduring loyalty of our clients. This contrasts with common industry practices which, unfortunately, value transactional success at the cost of long-term client relationships and employee welfare.”

Concerned about the longevity of many women in the industry, Jacqui is on a mission to prove that mortgage broking can be a rewarding career where worklife balance is achievable.

“Far too many women in the industry are moments away from burnout as they push to establish themselves and to grow successful businesses. I’m here to push back against this trend,” she said.

“I would love to see more women considering this career, particularly school leavers who are considering whether to stay in the region or leave us.”

The State Excellence Awards will be held on 23 May and, if Jacqui takes out the Queensland Award, she will become a finalist in the National Awards. The MFAA Awards recognise brokers who are growing sustainable businesses by building long-term client relationships, and by focusing on continual improvement.

“I am absolutely delighted to have made it to the State finals and anything beyond this point is a bonus. I am also looking forward to celebrating Ignite Financial’s 5th Birthday in June 2024.”

Budget ‘disappointing’ for Kennedy

“DISAPPOINTING” is how Member for Kennedy Bob Katter has described last week’s Federal Budget, saying there was “very few Kennedy-specific” funding allocations announced.

Mr Katter said while there were some positives for regional Australia, which would capture Kennedy, the details on funding were few and far between.

“The 2024 Budget will do little more than limp the government to the next election, providing no serious reform and offer little more than a few lollies,” he said.

Overall, the budget lacked longterm vision, and critical details towards real actionable initiatives.

Instead, there was increased funding for government departments to “improve regulatory compliance, or streamline workforces, or develop new reporting systems”.

While Mr Katter welcomed the parts of the government’s Future Made in Australia fund, which provides funding for critical minerals and their processing as well as “low

carbon fuel” such as ethanol, he again noted “it lacked succinct detail”.

The Budget allows $1 billion for the Roads to Recovery Program, $200 million for the Safer Local Roads and Infrastructure Program, and $154 million over six years to implement the New Vehicle Efficiency Standard including $84 million over five years to establish a regulator and $10 million on an awareness campaign.

“I encourage all councils in my electorate to apply for the Roads to Recovery Program, and I’m confident we can secure the funding for the completion of the Hann Highway, benefiting producers throughout North Queensland,” Mr Katter said.

“As for the vehicle efficiency standard, the government must realise this will impact more than just the people out bush.

“There are plenty of people in regional cities like Townsville and Cairns, throughout Australia, that enjoy 4WDs who will be unfairly punished with this standard.”

When it comes to infrastructure

building, which included $2.2 billion to enhance connectivity, and increase accessibility and reliability of Southeast Queensland transport networks, Mr Katter was underwhelmed.

“There’s a total infrastructure contribution of $21.6 billion for Queensland - of that $1.2 billion will go to the Sunshine Coast Rail Line, and just $467 million for the Bruce Highway corridor,” he said.

There was also $174 million allocated over six years for new water infrastructure projects, as well as $592.3 million over five years for the Paradise Dam Improvement project.

“What a joke! This package is beyond disappointing, it includes nothing ‘nation building,’ nothing that will generate economic growth, nothing that will create more than a few jobs,” Mr Katter said.

“In Kennedy, public transport is almost non-existent. We have some of the worse roads in Australia.

“The only access to the land west of the diving range and literally crumbling.

“Budget after budget we see more money siphoned from the regions and given to the cities for grandiose whiteelephant projects.”

Mr Katter also criticised the government for its decision to only give funding – $14.2 million over two years – to Alice Springs to improve community safety.

“Why can’t we then get money to solve North Queensland’s crime problem with outback camps – relocation sentencing?” he said.

When it comes to initiatives for the agricultural sector, Mr Katter was less than impressed.

Allocated in the budget was $519 million over eight years for the Future Drought Fund initiatives including education and farming practices incentives to boost drought preparedness, and online climate tools, as well as $1 million over two years for a skilled agricultural work liaison pilot to attract graduates to work in agriculture, and $1.5 million to improve accuracy and labelling of plant-based alternative protein products.

“With already 75% of our sheep gone, and 23% of cattle gone due to deregulations, the woke green brigade are at it again to please their ideology,” he said.

“There was $107 million to help farmers and the supply chain transition away from live sheep exports, yet this package also includes $2.6 million to improve sheep welfare standards.

“And there was $32 million over four years for programs protecting water security in the Great Artesian Basin (GAB).

“Besides some funding for the GAB, and potential funding for actual drought relief, this is, again, woke ideology running its course and destroying agriculture.”

Mr Katter did welcome the Stage 3 tax cuts and the $300 energy relief for each household as well as the $17 million allocated over the next year to boost support of healthcare in areas of shortage including GPs and the creation of an additional 29 Medicare Urgent Care clinics.

A new jobs program is coming to remote communi�es and the Australian Government wants to hear from you about how it should

People living in remote communi�es are invited to provide feedback to help design the new program.

You can have your say at an upcoming mee�ng in your area, or fill out a survey on the NIAA website.

To find out more visit www.niaa.gov.au/rjed-consulta�ons, call 1800 079 098 or visit your local NIAA office.

Cycling to be ‘million-dollar earner’

BY ELLIE FINK

CYCLING tourism

Tablelands Regional Council’s blueprint shows how to grow cycling tourism in the region - whether that be mountain biking, road riding or gravel riding - primarily through creating an interconnected network of biking trails across the Tablelands, linking the Atherton Forest Mountain Bike Park with all other trails.

Tableland Cycle Sports, which maintains the tracks within the popular bike park, is excited about the new draft strategy, saying it is the foundation for the future development of a trail network that could attract worldrenowned cycling events.

Cycle Sport president Bret Piccone and founding member and secretary David Prete believe the draft document will be crucial in their efforts to elevate the mountain bike tracks to a more “competitive standard”.

After years of advocating for increased council support for cycling tourism, Mr Piccone and Mr Prete are relieved to see their vision finally taking shape as they move forward with their plans.

“We have a pretty clear vision and idea of what the park could be, and we have been chipping away at it for quite a number of years, and the strategy now formalises it and ties it all together,” Mr Prete said.

“It will formalise the fact that the region sees the benefit of cycling, and the mountain bike park has bubbled up in it as a high-priority area. It is the catalyst for it, and once they get the (park) right, all other cycling will follow.

“At the moment, apart from gravel riding, which is really popular right now, mountain biking is really a drawcard for Australia and across the world, and people are searching for well-developed trails and facilities – it really attracts a lot of cashed-up cyclists who will stay in the area for a decent amount of time.”

Calling for a “top up, not a set up”,

Mr Piccone said the trails, which are maintained by his group and Queensland Parks and Wildlife, have been due for an upgrade for quite some time, and is pleased to see the expansion of the trails as a “priority and a short-term, ongoing” project.

“A lot of new places are starting from ground zero, whereas we have it all here, and we are already halfway up

the ladder,” he said.

“So this strategy is really going to tie everything together and it is what the State Government will look for if we ever go for funding.”

World-renowned cycling events are also on the draw cards for the mountain bike park, with the strategy’s action plan highlighting the essential upgrades needed to host them in the region.

“It really attracts a lot of cashed-up cyclists who will stay in the area for a decent amount of time”

Tour of the Tropics, the Croc Trophy and Crankworx were some of the events prioritised by the strategy and step one to this goal is expanding the 55km trails to over 100km.

“The trails need to be pretty schmick for these competitors so that is why we have been trying to convince council for quite some time to look at us more,” Mr Prete said.

“We, as a group of volunteers, can maintain the park as it is but we need the council’s backing to make this a million-dollar earner.

“One of the first things the government ask you (when applying for grants) is ‘do you have a strategy in place?’ and now council can say they do, and this is where mountain biking fits in.”

Within the strategy’s action plan, all of the rail trails across the Tablelands will also receive an upgrade as they prepare to ultimately connect them all together.

Cycling hubs will also be established in each township, while safe and accessibly trails will be constructed between major tourism hot spots.

Deputy Mayor Dave Bilney said he was proud to see the strategy well underway and hoped it would help improve the cycling community as a whole.

“The strategy responds to the growing popularity of cycling in our region and recognises the role cycling has in the health and wellbeing, economic, tourism and social benefits of our community,” he said.

“Once complete, the strategy will help with our long-term planning and support community groups’ applications for funding.”

Locals wanting to view the draft strategy and give feedback by 31 May by going to www.trc.qld.gov.au/project/tablelands-region-cycling-strategy-2023-34/

David Prete and Bret Piccone have been maintaining the Atherton Forest Mountain Bike Park for over a decade and are welcoming a new cycling strategy that will help put the trails on the map.

THE world of journalism awaits for Mareeba State High School student Isabel Gear, who completed work experience with The Express Newspaper last week.

Isabel has been interested in journalism for some time now, particularly in sports reporting.

After a week shadowing The Express journalists, she soon realised that all news reporting was interesting and now hopes to enter the field after she completes high school.

“I have always been interested in the sports journalists on TV and how they talk to NRL players on the sidelines after the game,” she said.

“So when I was researching journalism jobs at school, I saw that you could write the stories as well as be on TV, so I thought I would give that a try.”

During the week, Isabel learned how a newspaper was designed and printed, how to write a news story, interview, and take photos and videos.

She also had the opportunity to learn how to use a drone and video an avocado farm from above.

After learning to rewrite press releases, she jumped straight into the deep end and wrote a lead news story about the influx of cats at the Mareeba Animal Refuge.

This tested her ability to write hard news and her ability to construct a long leadlength article.

Of everything she did, Isabel mostly enjoyed interviewing the Mareeba Animal Refuge staff.

“It was really fun and it was great to learn about the cats,” she said.

Thank you Isabel for spending the week with us.

Student takes school issues to state body

BY ELLIE FINK

HOT topics such as youth crime, cultural diversity, mobile phone policies and bullying were at the forefront of the Ministerial Student Advisory Council, where Mareeba student Tashi Maxwell represented her peers and the Far North.

After a very competitive application process, Tashi was one of two students selected to represent the Far North and voice their peers' opinions to Education Minister Dianne Farmer.

Ahead of the meeting in Brisbane, Tashi interviewed several students of different ages, genders, and cultural backgrounds and compiled their opinions and thoughts before presenting them.

The biggest issue she brought to light was the normalisation of violence within schools in the region and how, if it were a Brisbane school, “everyone would know about it”.

“A good example of this is the week before I went down, there was an incident at the school where a student was arrested, and I told (the advisory council) that if it were a Brisbane school or Sydney school, that news would be everywhere and it would be a big thing,” she said.

“I said up here we need to work on getting past the normalisation of violence and crime and start setting boundaries and stricter rules.”

During her interviews with peers, Tashi asked students to rate how safe they felt at school from one to 10 – one being not safe at all.

The response was overwhelming, with Mareeba High students, on average, rating the school's safety a five.

“Most of them said five, which isn’t what you want from a school. Everyone deserves to come to school and learn while feeling safe,” she said.

“We do not deserve to suffer that anxiety

for just wanting to get an education, which is our right.”

Education Queensland’s no phone policy was also discussed at the meeting, with every representative from each school saying they disagreed with the way it was implemented into state schools.

Tashi explained that Covid-19 lockdowns meant students were reliant on their devices for school work, and now that has been taken away from them, it was hard to readjust.

“We were taught how to use technology in learning and that was sort of ripped away from us very suddenly,” she said.

“We talked about how, because of this, students are being sneaky and using their phones in the toilets.

“It’s sort of 50/50 because I think a phone ban is a good idea, but the way they have implemented it is flawed, with so many loopholes and conditions that were not really considered.

“We talked about how we need to allow technology in class in a way that works for their learning and not completely cutting off our connection to our resources.”

The impacts of bullying have been felt by every student according to Ms Maxwell, who discussed with the advisory council how teachers could better support students.

Tashi said while Mareeba State High School staff responded to reports of bullying very well, she believed teachers struggled to identify unreported incidents.

“We spoke with the minister about our own personal experiences and how each of our schools responded to bullying and the policies they have in place,” she said.

“I believe our school does a pretty good job at monitoring reported incidents, but they aren’t really able to recognise the signs that someone is being bullied.

“We then looked at strategies to improve the processes of identifying a bully or a victim and get involved sooner to prevent it

getting worse.”

With Mareeba being home to more than 60 different cultures, Tashi said the conversation of cultural diversity was key when speaking on ways to make students feel more welcomed at school.

Splitting into small groups with the other advisory council students, she brainstormed ways to make Mareeba State High School and other Queensland state schools a more inclusive environment.

“We came up with heaps of ideas and compared them to other schools and it gave us all ideas of how we can include everyone at school – students and teachers, even cleaners,” she said.

“We believe that everyone deserves to learn no matter the cultural background.”

Having the responsibility of representing students across the region was daunting for Tashi, but she said she was confident in the points she presented and hoped it would help make a difference for students across Queensland.

“I really made sure to talk to as many students as I could from as many backgrounds as I could before I went down because I wanted to make sure I was getting every side of the story,” she said.

Tashi will travel back to Brisbane in October for another advisory council meeting.

Isabel steps into the news world

Mareeba State High School student Tashi Maxwell (right) with Education Minister Dianne Farmer at the Ministerial Student Advisory Council.

Cost-saving measure rejected by council

A PROPOSAL to undertake maintenance works in Chillagoe by a Mareeba Shire Council staff member rather than award the work to a contractor has been rejected by councillors. The move could have saved the council $60,000 over two years and when the report was put to last week’s meeting, the officer’s recommendation was moved by Cr Kevin Davies and seconded by Cr Ross Cardillo.

But when it came to the vote, it was rejected, without a word being said by any councillor to speak for the motion or against it.

The report to council outlined the reasons why it would have been in the financial interest of the organisation to increase its workforce by one person to undertake the maintenance work at Chillagoe.

The works involve general maintenance of council facilities in the town including the Hub, Town Hall, tennis courts and 10 Acre Park amenities, as well as the aerodrome, cemetery and water treatment plant.

A tender was put out for the works, but when officers reviewed the tenders received and costed it against

council staff carrying out the work, they recommended not to pursue the tender and instead put on a full-time employee.

PNG looks to local coffee expertise to revive industry

BY CHELSEA ASHMEADE

ARMED with three generations of coffee growing knowledge, the Jacques family hope to now pass what they’ve learnt on to growers in Papua New Guinea as the country battles to reinvigorate its coffee industry.

The family met with PNG Deputy Prime Minister John Rosso, PNG’s Coffee Minister and a number of other delegates at its coffee tree plantation last week to discuss what they do and share their plans to help their country to revive its oncestrong coffee growing industry.

Nat Jaques, who has faced his own share of trials and tribulations, said PNG’s coffee production had dropped to a quarter of what it was.

But through the will and hard work of coffee growers, the situation could be turned around.

With the support - including financial - of both the PNG Government and Australian Government, the Jaques family hope to support growers in a number of different ways.

These include an education program, conducting new variety trials, accelerating berry beetle research and control programs, leaf rust and foliar spray programs, opening new coffee growing areas for future growing expansion, introducing

co-ops for coffee processing where needed and reviewing sales.

The idea for the collaboration between the Jaques family and PNG stemmed from regular visits by PNG coffee farmer Feo Kinoka.

Mr Kinoka was in awe of what the family had achieved through their hardships and pushed for several years to get the PNG government to visit.

“It’s exciting, it’s finally coming together,” he said.

Between three and four million people rely on the coffee industry in PNG - a strong reason for Mr Kinoka to continue to push for Wednesday’s visit.

If the program is accepted and supported by the PNG government and the Australian Government, Mr Jaques said he would use his experience and knowledge to help guide the growers.

“We will be here to advise you on how to do it and provide you with really important factors in the industry,” he said.

The country still uses varieties from 50 to 60 years ago, which Mr Jaques said were not anywhere near as productive as today’s varieties.

“It’s for you to decide if we have the skills and the experience…we are ready to go, so long as it’s done properly. We like to do things properly or not at all,” he told the PNG delegation.

For reasons unknown, five councillors, including Mayor Angela Toppin, voted against the recommendation.

Mayor Toppin then moved that a tender for the works be put out to the market again, which was supported by the council.

“It was found that a saving more than $30,000 pa ($60,000 over the two-year period advertised in the tender) would be achieved by engaging council staff,” the report revealed. It also stated that by employing someone, it would “assist to improve employment opportunities in the area”.

“If we can help you guys to revive the coffee industry and help the economic future of PNG - I know we can double the production, if not more, if you can follow the program.

“It will only work if we can educate (the growers).”

Mr Rosso described his country’s coffee industry as “ailing”.

“The whole reason we have a new minister for the coffee industry is to revive it,” he said.

Mr Rosso thanked the Jaques family for showing their operation and sharing their story and knowledge.

“I’m impressed, really impressed. Not only the farm but the family story, too,” he said.

Mr Jacques said he hoped the program is accepted when PNG Coffee Minister William Bando takes the proposal to Cabinet.

“I hope this has been good for everybody. I look forward to having funding in my pocket to come up. The ball is in your court…let’s see it happen now,” he said.

Mr Rosso said with Mr Kinoka’s hard work and Minister Bando’s support, together they would help to make change.

“I’m certain between the two of them, with the PM and myself, we can do something,” he said.

Papua New Guinea’s Deputy Prime Minister John Rosso speaks with Nat Jaques from Jaques Australian Coffee on Wednesday about how his family can help reinvigorate the country’s coffee industry.

Water sales slow in final week

BIDDING on water being sold through Sunwater’s online auction slowed markedly in the last week of the sale, with all but six lots out of 38 available in the final week being passed in.

The three-week exercise yielded $17,425,565 in sales, with East Barron water attracting the highest bids, with 5 megalitres going for $4575/ML in the second week of the auction.

The auction started with a flourish, with more than $13 million sold in the first five days, but by week two, bidding slowed, with only the East Barron water going above the reserve price of $3200/ML.

In week three, most of those interested in purchasing the water had clearly bought what they wanted, with only three lots sold on the first day at, or just $5 above, the reserve price, none sold the next day, and only three attracted bids on the last day of the auction.

Police ask for help in cattle theft

POLICE are asking members of the public if they can assist with information regarding the alleged theft of cattle from a property near Doomadgee last year.

Officers from the Cloncurry Rural and Stock Crime Squad say the offending occurred north of Doomadgee, between September and November 2023.

Investigators believe the offenders have attempted to legitimise the stolen cattle, by branding them as their own.

The cattle are described as shorthorn cattle.

Police are appealing for anyone who has information regarding this matter to contact their nearest police station.

Future of Malanda Pavilion uncertain

TABLELANDS Regional Council has moved to clarify what is happening with the Patrick English Pavilion after locals reacted when they heard that stallholders would no longer be able to use the facility for the monthly markets.

A Facebook post by the markets advised that stallholders who had sites in the pavilion would be unable to use it anymore as it has been “condemned effective immediately”.

That generated many comments, with some concerned it means the end of the facility for the community.

In a statement, Deputy Mayor Cr Dave Bilney said the immediate future of the pavilion “was

uncertain after a routine structural assessment identified serious structural issues”.

“The engineer has expressed serious concern over the structural integrity of the pavilion, the most severe being the failure of the timber curved trusses,” he said.

“We’re still waiting on the final report that will include details of the extent of the issues, but the bottom line is the pavilion is not safe for use at this stage.

“We are working with people and organisations who have booked the hall to find alternative venues or dates, and we’ll share more information as it comes to hand.”

NATIONAL VOLUNTEER WEEK

Volunteers recognised

THERESA Jansen is a great example of what volunteering in your community can deliver.

To coincide with National Volunteer Week (20-26 May), Tablelands Regional Council will celebrate volunteers like Theresa at a special morning tea this Friday.

The event will be held at the Malanda Falls Visitor Centre where Theresa has volunteered since 2019.

“I have found my time here to be very rewarding,” she said.

“I love giving back to my community — I love a chat so this is perfect for me.”

Theresa said she found chatting with visitors from many countries and all over Australia fascinating.

“Guiding visitors to our many beautiful and diverse attractions in the area is a very important part of my role as a volunteer,” she said.

The volunteers don’t go in “blind” though, regularly participating in familiarisation tours to visit the many attractions they send visitors to.

“This is great because we then have first-hand knowledge of some of the wonderful attractions we are promoting,” Theresa said.

“Volunteering is also a wonderful way to meet new people — give it a go.”

Ms Jansen is just one of a number of volunteers who have contributed more than 70,000 hours to the Malanda Falls Visitor Centre over the past 10 years.

Tablelands Deputy Mayor Cr

Dave Bilney said the centre had more than 20,000 visitors a year and couldn’t manage without volunteers.

“It’s a great opportunity to share your knowledge of Malanda and surrounding region with locals and visitors,” he said.

He said council took the opportunity to thank all of its volunteers for the hours of work they selflessly give each and every year.

“Volunteers are the backbone of any community, offering their time and skills selflessly to support a range of organisations, causes and initiatives,” he said.

“Their tireless efforts in sporting clubs, community groups, committees, support services and other places in the community ensures our region thrives.”

Cr Bilney said TRC volunteers were key to the success of its information centres, galleries, museum and community nursery.

“Volunteering is a great opportunity to meet new and likeminded people and to support your community. Our volunteers enjoy their roles and have fun contributing to the community,” he said.

TRC provides ongoing training and support for all volunteers and anyone interested can apply at www.trc.qld.gov.au/volunteer any time or visit the council office.

All volunteers, and those considering it, are also invited to join the council at the Malanda Falls Visitor Centre on Friday, 24 May from 10am for a morning tea.

Theresa Jansen has loved volunteering at the Malanda Falls Visitor Centre for the past five years.

Groups struggle to attract volunteers

VOLUNTEERS are the backbone of each and every community but as people become more “time poor”, local organisations are having a difficult time finding and keeping them.

The local situation mirrors a State report released to coincide with National Volunteer Week (May 20-26) that reveals formal volunteering has dropped by 20% over the past three years.

The State of Volunteering report shows that the 64% of Queenslanders who volunteered in 2023 contributed more than 719 million hours at a value of $117 billion.

To replace the labour of those volunteer hours would reportedly cost $31.3 million.

But it also shows that number of hours volunteered each month had also dropped by 20% over the past three years while the participation in volunteer positions decreased by 10%.

The report says the top three barriers to getting and keeping volunteers is no time (48%), the costs involved (14.5%) and for health reasons (13.1%).

Mareeba Animal Refuge has experienced the difficulty in attracting volunteers, especially in recent months.

“Typically, we used to have between five to 10 or more volunteers daily, but now we are lucky to see about one to four,” she said.

“Even during school holidays, a period when we usually have a high turnout of families, attendance has been remarkably low this year.”

She said the reduction of volunteers was disheartening and had placed considerable strain on the staff.

“There are days when we must actively seek volunteers through social media

to ensure our dogs get their daily walks, highlighting the urgency of the situation,” she said.

Volunteers at the refuge help with daily dog walking, cleaning, assisting at events and socialising cats and dogs.

“Our volunteers are indispensable during fundraising events, which are vital for our financial sustainability. Without their help, our small team would be overwhelmed,” Ms Pollard said.

She said volunteering offered a wonderful opportunity to step outside, engage with the community and make new friends – both furry and human.

“Volunteering is highly regarded by employers and can enhance your resume, showcasing your commitment to community service and personal development,”

Ms Pollard said.

At Far North Queensland Aviation Museum, president Brendan Kent said while they weren’t overflowing with volunteers, they had more join them this year.

“This could be due to our status as a fledgling and expanding organisation.

Nonetheless, we've observed a sustained enthusiasm for volunteering, with an uptick of approximately five new volunteers joining us this year,” he said.

“We have found that by staying connected through email, social media, and hosting events has helped keep people engaged.”

Mr Kent said while other aviation museums usually engaged ageing volunteers, they were proud to involve many younger people, helping to offset any increases in the older demographic.

“Volunteers play a crucial role in communities around the world, often working

tirelessly behind the scenes to support various causes and organisations. Volunteers are also the backbone of many essential services,” Mr Kent said.

He said the absence of volunteers had been keenly felt in numerous sectors during the Covid-19 pandemic.

“Many volunteer-driven programs and services had to be scaled back or put on hold due to safety concerns and restrictions. This highlighted just how much these individuals contribute to the functioning of society and the well-being of communities.”

Mr Kent said under funding was one of the issues facing volunteer-based organisations.

“In the last few years, the Federal Government has taken away infrastructure funding opportunities for smaller not-for-profits (unless your pockets are lined) and we therefore struggle to provide decent facilities for our volunteers and visitors,” he said.

However, he believed volunteering served as an excellent avenue for skill development, whether it’s honing existing abilities or acquiring new ones.

“This is particularly beneficial for individuals in post-retirement stages, as it allows them to stay engaged, contribute meaningfully to society, and continue learning,” he said.

“Moreover, volunteering provides a platform for maintaining skills acquired throughout one's career, ensuring that they remain relevant and utilised.

“Whether it's through sharing knowledge, lending a helping hand, or simply offering companionship, volunteers play a vital role in creating a more connected and supportive society.”

► JACOB GOES THE DISTANCE P37

Mareeba Friends of the Refuge secretary and volunteer Adrian Fethers giving Otto a walk.

Donation to help homeless

A DONATION by the Tableland Soroptimist Club to Better Together Community Support will enable 18 homelessness packs to be purchased and given to those in need.

Amanda Fitzgerald and Rebecca Hosking from Better Together came to the club’s recent meeting to accept the donation and thank the members.

Better Together is in the process of putting together Homeless Shelter Packs which consists of a two-person tent, two tarps, a sleeping bag, a butane stove with extra canisters, and a set of saucepans. The Soroptimist Club donated $1800 to purchase 18 of the packs.

Push to have full road sealed

IT’S simply illogical that out of a 2,800km route, only 11km remains unsealed, says Katter’s Australian Party Leader Robbie Katter.

After more than a decade of advocacy by Mr Katter, only 11km of dirt remains on the Kennedy Developmental Road (or Hann Highway).

Mr Katter secured initial funding for the project which began work in 2020. When fully sealed, the route would shave up to 13 hours off a trip from Cairns to Melbourne.

“North Queensland has some of the finest agricultural produce, and it is imperative that we enable efficient transport to the lucrative southern markets,” he said.

“With so much attention on the Bruce Highway and its challenges, here’s an opportunity to take some of the freight off it and keep it away from vulnerable passenger traffic.”

The Kennedy Developmental Road Links Hughenden and The Lynd and was first developed during World War II as a north south supply line west of the divide – away from

the high rainfall areas on the coast.

Mr Katter was pleased to hear discussions regarding the remaining sealing works took place at the recent North West Queensland Regional Organisation of Councils (NWQROC) meeting.

“A fully sealed Kennedy Developmental Road will also contribute immensely to regional development and benefit every industry and town along the route, with increased freight traffic providing service industry opportunities,” Mr Katter said.

“The completion of sealing the route presents opportunities for small outback towns such as Hughenden.

“I am working closely with local governments and other agencies to understand the hurdles hindering the completion of the sealing project, and will be pursuing State Government funding, and Federal Government funding in conjunction with the Federal member for Kennedy”, he added.

Grant to help community garden grow

A $6000 grant to enhance a community garden at Ravenshoe is among 129 awarded to community groups in rural, remote and regionals areas of Australiawide through the Foundation for Rural Regional Renewal’s (FRRR) flagship Strengthening Rural Communities program.

The Ravenshoe Community Centre will receive the grant to enhance the community garden to strengthen social connection, provide access to fresh food, and sustain the work of volunteers at a garden after the pandemic through

the purchase of a trailer and improved garden soil.

Awarded via three streams of funding, SRC grants support small and vital projects, attracting a record 450 applications for this round of SRC funding.

Place Portfolio Lead Jill Karena says that there is an increasing need for FRRR to fill gaps in areas that may have previously relied on funding from government incentives or programs or support from local businesses.

“The SRC program is flexible and open year-round, meaning it can lean

in when government and other agencies lean out,” she said.

“This access to continued funding opportunities is especially vital in communities that are moving beyond the immediate threats and response to natural disasters and other shocks.

“This round, we have seen increased applications from the organisers of community events, such as local agricultural shows, as some local governments are reducing their annual funding support.”

Ms Karena said that in addition to the 129 initiatives awarded grants, there

were a further 85 funding-ready projects, requesting more than $900,000, that FRRR did not have the funds to support.

“This highlights the importance of small grants to remote, rural and regional community groups and is why FRRR is seeking new partners so that the foundation can fund more projects in the future,” she said.

“Given the uncertainty of the current financial landscape, groups have told us that they value having access to timely secured funding to support medium to

long term goals, as well as initiatives that respond to present needs and priorities.

“SRC grants provide leverage as they demonstrate to other funders that the projects have value and are supported. But to be able to fund more of them, we need to bring in additional collaborative funders.

FRRR always accepts applications to the program, which awards funds around four times a year. More information about the program is available at www.frrr.org.au/src

Better Together’s Rebecca Hosking (second left) and Amanda Fitzgerald (right beside banner) with members of the Tableland Soroptimist Club.

Strict conditions on new function centre

STRICT conditions have been placed on a new wedding function facility to be developed at a property at Speewah after 30 submissions were lodged against the operation going ahead.

Mareeba Shire Council approved the application by Speewah Gardens or the Rosebud Farm, located on the Douglas Track, but placed a raft of strict conditions on the business after numerous concerns were expressed by residents.

Residents are worried the new operation will destroy the amenity they currently enjoy, with the business able to host functions for up to 150 people.

Nearly all objections to the proposal were based on noise, additional traffic, danger to wildlife and the general quiet amenity of the area.

“The noise pollution of wedding music until midnight would be unacceptable for this quiet community where noise travels freely,” a resident of 15 years said in their submission.

“The additional traffic and noise to and from the venue along the Douglas Track will kill and destroy our wildlife and the very unique nature of the area.

“The environmental impact on the Douglas Track from the noise, lights and pollution would spoil our trail walks or horse rides through the beautiful rainforest home to the protected cassowary and many other rare or endangered species.”

Currently, the property is used for horticultural cropping and garden tours, with more than 660 species of established palms, cycads, exotic plants, and tropical fruit trees on the site.

“The intent of the proposed development is to facilitate use of the site for weddings and similar functions …. at any of the six designated indoor and outdoor function locations which are set amongst the site’s unique gardens,” the application states.

A council report noted that the property was located in the Rural zone, ad-

jacent to two separate clusters of Rural Residential zoned lots.

“The majority of submitters reside within these two clusters and the predominant concern raised by submitters was the impact the development may have on the established amenity of the area due to increases in traffic from function guests as well as noise nuisance, particularly from functions involving amplified noise (speakers, DJ’s, bands etc.),” the report states.

“Although it is acknowledged that large functions 100-150 persons will likely generate a noticeable increase in traffic on Douglas Track, these sized functions will be limited to a frequency of no more than two per month.

“In addition to limiting the frequency of functions, road safety improvements and upgrades have been conditioned to ensure traffic impacts remain acceptable.

“In addition to stringent noise level restrictions, only one function per

Community steps up to enhance Ant Hill park

COMMUNITY spirit has led the way again, with Mareeba Rotary and Mareeba Lions joining forces to revitalise Ant Hill Park with 100 new recycled bollards.

The initiative, spearheaded by Rotarian Kevin Davies, saw the installation of 100 new recycled bollards, replacing old timber structures, which were falling apart.

“They were looking quite tatty, with giant metal long screws sticking out of them and it was only a matter of time before someone scratched themselves,” he said.

“I decided to apply for a grant from the Bendigo Bank last year and after being successful we then formed the partnership with Mareeba Lions to do what community groups do – which is awesome.”

Mr Davies’ sons, Liam and Bradley, were also onsite volunteering with the “heavy work”.

The project was funded by the Mareeba and Dimbulah Community Bank branches of Bendigo Bank.

PICTURED: Rotarian Kevin Davies with sons Liam and Bradley in front of new recycled bollards installed at Ant Hill Park in front of the Mareeba Heritage Centre.

Modern, state of the art classrooms, day schooling and boarding facilities for boys and girls.

Our curriculum provides academic and vocational pathways, enabling the best possible employment opportunities. Your child will enjoy small class sizes, individual student attention for maximum outcomes, including sporting and cultural opportunities.

Our college is founded on the basis that no child will be denied a Catholic education based on financial hardship. Generous fee concessions apply to holders of means-tested concession cards and those with a genuine inability to pay.

month will be permitted to operate up to midnight, with two other functions permitted to operate till 10pm only.

“The eight other functions permitted per month must occur during daylight hours only.”

But other concerns by residents, such as the limited police presence in the area, could not be considered by the council’s planners.

“As I’m sure you are aware, there is very limited police presence here, Speewah police station is not manned 24 hours and when it is manned, there is only one crew working so they mostly respond to calls and do not have the luxury of being proactive,” one resident wrote.

“I believe drink driving will be a major issue as I cannot imagine Mareeba police having the staff to man RBT’s whenever a wedding or event is on.”

“The traffic will be too much for residents of this area. Cars up and

down the road. People have moved to get away from city noise and now you and this company want to bring the noise here,” another resident wrote.

At last week’s council meeting, Cr Lenore Wyatt wanted an assurance from officers that live music and fireworks would not be permitted.

“So basically, it’s your basic steroes (that will be allowed) – because one of the biggest complaints is about noise,” she said, to which the officer replied, “Yes, and live bands produce the highest level of noise.”

Cr Kevin Davies also wanted to confirm what works would be done to upgrade the road. Officers confirmed the Douglas Track – from where the existing bitumen seal ends to 10m past the site access – would have to be upgraded to a minimum 4.5m wide bitumen sealed road with 1.2m wide gravel shoulders.

The application was unanimously approved.

#StandUpSpeakUp

Jayden Connors from the Atherton Roosters.

Kathryn, Gotham, Tara, Laurel from PCYC Atherton.

Leslie, Lynette, Shellie, Lee and Charlyne from Mareeba Shire Council.

Petals and Pinecones Barrister Chris.

Jordan, Jaidon, Phil from Central Tyre Service .

Mareeba Gladiators.

Tablelands Regional Councillors.

Jane from Cafe on Louise Atherton.

Groups welcome funds boost Animal refuge struggling with influx of cats, kittens

BY ISABEL GEAR

ABANDONED cats are being turned away or even euthanised due to a record-breaking influx at the Mareeba Animal Refuge.

The local shelter was built to house only 30 cats and kittens, but is currently caring for more than 60 stray and abandoned cats.

As a result, the refuge is unable to accept any new surrenders and have been forced to make some “heartbreaking” decisions.

Mareeba is not the only area feeling the heat, with Cairns, Port Douglas and facilities as far south as Gladstone being inundated with unwanted animals.

Since January, the refuge has taken in a total of 109 cats and 96 dogs, with 87 of those cats and 77 of the dogs being adopted.

The highest number of cats and kittens the refuge has ever had was 50, but now the facility is being forced to take on 60 of the homeless animals, with demand not expected to decrease anytime soon.

“The biggest issues is people still not desexing their pets, letting them roam and they just have litter after litter after litter and they all end up here with us,” staff member Felicity Pollard said.

“Desexing is the biggest thing that we need to put out there. People need to take responsibility and start doing that.

“When you say you get them off the streets, people might think they're feral or something like that, but the heartbreaking thing

is, they are all really nice.

“When you adopt through a rescue, they have all their vet work done, they’re desexed, they’re vaccinated, they’re microchipped, all of that, so there's no ongoing costs there.

“Rescuing an animal out of a shelter then provides room for more so that we can keep caring for more because, at this point, we can't take in anything new.

“We are at double the capacity that the cattery really should be, that causes further problems as well, like health risks.

“The cats are stressed, and they start fighting, and that's when we have to make tough decisions and, some cats do lose their lives unless we can turn this around right here right now.”

With vet bills alone costing the refuge on average $6,000-$8,000 a month, they are desperate for donations and welcome food donations or volunteer time to help lend a hand.

“Food donations can go a long way too, kitten, puppy things like cat litter, because that's a cost as well that we can drop down a bit there,” Ms Pollard said.

“A little bit goes a long way, so just people spreading the world of the heartbreak felt here can make all the difference.”

Anyone who can help can call the Mareeba Animal Refuge on 4092 3060 or email foamar@bigpond.com. Alternatively, you can donate directly to the organisation to Friends of the Animals; BSB: 633000; Account no: 113217335

FOUR organisations across the region will benefit from an additional $2000 after they were successful in obtaining a People of Post grant.

Australia Post has awarded grants to more than 150 grassroots community and not-for-profit groups across Australia, with each receiving up to $2,000 in funding through its annual grant program.

The Tablelands Branch of the National Servicemen's Association of Australia will used its funds to deliver a bus tour for Veteran's Health Week or for an end-of yearcelebration.

In its submission, the group advised that fundraising for bus trips had become increasingly difficult due to the age of the veterans.

They have planned a day outing for veterans that will include a morning tea, lunch and trip to visit a military tribute show, military muster or historical mystery tour.

The aim is to aid reconnection with friends to help reduce social isolation for good mental health and wellbeing.

The School for Field Studies has also received a grant to purchase seedlings and equipment for its restoration of the original Mabi rainforest vegetation, while the Trees for the Evelyn and Atherton Tablelands (TREAT), will purchase

new heating pads, essential for increasing the success of propagating trees from cuttings – a critical aspect of their conservation efforts.

In Douglas, the University of the Third Age and Douglas Seniors Connect plan to provide free activities for their senior residents and visitors. Each activity will focus on social connection and mental wellbeing through sharing knowledge, life skills, meals and working together. The grant funds will be used to subsidise the costs of three activities – Pizza in the Park, a Men’s Coffee Morning, and a Trivia Lunch.

Australia Post general manager for community and stakeholder engagement, Nicky Tracey, said the seventh year of the program would once again help local organisations continue to make a positive impact on communities across the nation.

“At a time where cost of living is high, it’s great that Australia Post can help make a lasting impact to some of Australia’s most pressing issues,” she said.

“We also know community groups are pivotal in fostering a sense of belonging and making a positive difference to individuals every day, which is particularly important at a time where 1 in 7 Australians experience social isolation and loneliness.”

TRACES radiesDay

Fashions on the Field

– COUNTRY MEETS THE CITY –

The Club is pleased to announce that one male and female representative selected (winners of our Fashions on the Field competition) will have the opportunity to compete in the Brisbane final on Tattersall’s Tiara day, June 29. Each finalist who competes in Brisbane will receive $500 towards travel and accommodation expenses courtesy of Racing Queensland.

Felicity Pollard with two-week-old kittens which are part among the 60 cats currently in the refuge’s care

Legendary ‘Mountain Men’ revered

BY BRIGITTE DALEY

A LOT of things have changed in 100 years, but the one thing that hasn’t is the way that people feel about Millaa Millaa Rugby League (MMRL), which was legendary for being a formidable force in the North.

A reunion dinner was held at the Millaa Millaa RSL Hall on Saturday night to commemorate and celebrate what would have been the centenary of its existence.

The event was a phenomenal success, with 210 former players, coaches and supporters coming together to reminisce about past victories, memorable plays and shared experiences.

John Roots and Dale (Bushy) Halbert initiated the idea.

Such is the significance of MMRL in people’s lives that some people would not have been born had it not been for MMRL, as their parents first met at football games.

People came from all around Australia, including Melbourne, Darwin, Brisbane and Alstonville in NSW to participate in the event.

Former player Mark John-

son was in attendance, reuniting with his football teammates after an incredible 48-year gap, nearly half a century since they last met.

He was in the last premiership team in 1977.

Bob Ferrari, aged 88, was the oldest player present on the night, while Steve Bailey, aged 58, was the youngest, spanning a gap of 40 years exactly.

A “Living Legend” award was presented to Bob Ferrari.

One of his favourite memories of MMRL was of the comradeship and loyalty of the supporters – win or lose.

“Training the younger players was very rewarding,” Bob said.

“My aim was to teach the kids how to play the game and that winning isn't everything.”

In attendance on the night were Peter Grigg and Ross Hanley who played junior league for Millaa Millaa and then went on to play for Australia in rugby union.

Also present were Morgan and Anne Wakely and daughter Amber. MMRL’s esteemed “Jack Wakely Cup” was named in memory of Morgan’s father, Jack.

AIRBORNE GEOPHYSICAL SURVEY IN QUEENSLAND

Geoscience Australia, in collaboration with the Geological Survey of Queensland, will be conducting an Airborne Electromagnetic (AEM) survey over an area around Georgetown and Croydon between July to October 2024.

The survey will be carried out by a helicopter fitted with specialist geophysical equipment flying along 2 kilometre spaced lines. The helicopter and the equipment that it tows will be flying at approximately 80 metres above the ground and will avoid dwellings and built-up areas. Operations will be based at regional airports and no access to private property is required.

FORMER MMRL COACHES: Steve McDonnell, Bob Ferrari, Dale (Bushy) Halbert, Henry Winters, Warren Baylis, Kevin Cifuenties and John Barney.

Dale (Bushy) Halbert with the Jack Wakely Cup.

Anne and Morgan Wakely and daughter Amber. Morgan holds the “Jack Wakely Cup” named in memory of his father, Jack.

Standing in front of MMRL Premiership photos are John Cleary, John Reynolds, Martin Grandelis author/publisher of “A History of Millaa Millaa Rugby League 1924-1987”, Stephen McDonnell, Margaret Johnson and Lionel Johnson.

LIVING LEGEND AWARD: Etty Ferrari, Henry Winters, Pat Reynolds (MC) with recipient Bob Ferrari.

Jessica Walters, Michael McDonnell, Stephen McDonnell, Diane McDonnell and Alicia Reghenzani.

Junior Charity Prince and Princess entrants

The charity contest is for the youngest members of the Dimbulah community. The entrants have been busy selling raffle tickets for the Dimbulah Lions Club for the past couple of months. The participants who raise the most money will be crowned at the festival this Saturday.

2024 DIMBULAH LIONS FESTIVAL

DIMBULAH LIONS FESTIVAL

Charlotte Clarke

Reid Bassani

Dylan Martel Brown

Emma Withers

Kasidee Bell

Gracie Cummings Addison De Lai

Ava Martin

50th festival Queen to be crowned on Saturday

This year the young lady crowned will be the 50th Queen of the Dimbulah Lions Festival. The very first queen, Penny Bartholomew, was crowned in 1972.

A NEW QUEEN will be crowned at the Dimbulah Lions Festival this Saturday night.

Two young Dimbulah woman, Chelsea De Lai and Laura Westwood, will vie for the crown as part of the 50th queen quest hosted by the Dimbulah Lions.

Joining the long-standing competition are this year's junior prince entrants, Reid Bassani and Dylan Martel Brown and princess entrants Charlotte Clarke, Kasidee Bell, Emma Withers, Ava Martin, Addison De Lai, and Gracie Cummings.

The junior entrants have been actively fundraising in the community with money raised going to the Lions Club, who in return help projects within the community.

The Lions festival is Dimbulah’s biggest annual event, with a street parade, food, entertainment and fireworks lighting up the town up for the night.

QUEEN ENTRANT – CHELSEA DELAI Sponsored by G & G De Lai & Co Pty Ltd

QUEEN ENTRANT – LAURA WESTWOOD Sponsored by Dimbulah State School P & C

2024 DIMBULAH LIONS FESTIVAL

“This festival is always testament to the diversity and richness of our community and as a result of the generosity of our sponsors and amazing community support, since last year’s festival we have returned more than $21,750 back into the community”

Dimbulah set to welcome all at town festival

IT is with great pleasure and excitement that I once again announce the 2024 Dimbulah Lions Festival is on this weekend!

This year, we celebrate not just a festival, but 50 years of Dimbulah Lions Festival Queens.

The Dimbulah Lions Club has been an integral part of our community for over 60 years, embodying the values of selflessness and dedication to service and living up to our motto of “We Serve”.

Our members tireless efforts in organizing the festival year after year remind us of the importance of giving back and supporting one another.

Our festival is always testament to the diversity and richness of our community. From the vibrant performances to the delectable array of foods, there is something here to delight and inspire everyone.

It is a time for us to come together, to celebrate our shared heritage, and to forge new friendships that will enrich our lives for years to come.

KNUTH

With so much going on in the world today it is easy to be distracted and saddened by social and moral issues many of which are a daily occurrence which sometimes leave us questioning where we are heading as a society.

The Dimbulah Lions Festival affords us an opportunity to celebrate what is right with world and remind us all what can be achieved when we work together.

Our resilience in the face of adversity is a testament to the strength of our community. Let us draw inspiration from this strength as we look towards a brighter and more prosperous future for Dimbulah.

As a result of the generosity of our sponsors and amazing community support, since last year’s festival we have given back over $21,750 back into the community.

I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to our Lions members and their partners, volunteers, and sponsors who have worked tirelessly in again

making the festival possible. Your dedication and hard work will truly made a difference in the lives of many.

In closing, let us embrace the spirit of the Dimbulah Lions Festival – a spirit of unity, service, and celebration. May this festival be a time of joy, laughter, and cherished memories for all.

Thank you, and enjoy the festivities!

Brendon Goldsworthy

President Dimbulah Lions Club

Past queens share advice with entrants

DIMBULAH will crown its 50th queen this weekend at the Dimbulah Lions Festival, a beloved tradition returning to the festival after a hiatus.

This year’s entrants are Laura Westwood and Chelsea DeLai who last week had the honour of meeting past Dimbulah Lion's Queens, who shared some wisdom with them ahead of the festival.

Cathy Fabris (nee. Evans) was one of the first queens crown in the 1970s and was selected among a pool of 22 entrants.

She told Laura and Chelsea to “enjoy the moment” as she did and still remembers fondly to this day.

“Just enjoy yourselves, relax and have fun,” she said.

“The queens' quest is like a rite of passage for young Dimbulah girls and it’s a really nice thing for them and for the town.”

As a part of the queen selection process, the two entrants will have a lunch with the judges on Saturday and then have individual interviews, where they will be asked about who they are and their thoughts on certain topics.

In true Dimbulah style, Laura and Chelsea will dress up their own floats and feature in the Dimbulah Street Parade alongside other local community groups.

They will then present a speech about their aspirations and dreams on the night before the crowning at 8.30pm on the main stage.

2024 DIMBULAH LIONS FESTIVAL

WHAT’S ON...

THIS SATURDAY 25TH MAY

5.00PM

Presentation

8.30PM CROWNING OF QUEEN

Crowning of the 2024 Festival Queen and Princess Crowning of Junior Charity Prince and Princess Drawing of the Raffle and Cent Sale Commencement of the Bar Band – Clam Sandwich

9.00PM FIREWORKS

PLEASE

This

ENTERTAINMENT

of Rob’s

Exhibition is ‘Between Worlds’

The exhibition features a range of work – from beautiful landscapes to meditative still life.

Rob says the inspiration for this exhibition was in the painting process – the layering of paint, and the reworking, which reveals many layers below the surface.

“The finished works hint at memory and traces of things past,” he said.

“The viewer will bring their own experience, understanding and story to the work. It sits ‘between worlds’ – that is, my world and other’s, between realism and abstraction.”

The opening is on Friday at 5pm and the exhibition will be on display until 29 June.

Gulflander rolls again

THE rain is gone, the wild flowers are blooming and the Gulflander is back and ready for its seasonal trip from Normanton to Croydon along the heritage-listed line.

The return of the Gulflander was originally delayed due to the higher-than-average rainfall and floods that devastated the region, however, a swift comeback was made and this year the Gulflander will be chugging along from 15 May up until 31 October.

“The recent wet weather also means passengers will be in for a picturesque journey with the rainfall transforming the journey’s landscape into a flourishing oasis,” executive general manager regional operations Louise Collins said.

“This trip is like no other. The line was originally built to connect the once bustling river port of Normanton to the gold fields of Croydon.

“It is a tribute to the early pioneers of the Gulf country and the railway line still retains the original rail and sleepers laid between 1888 and 1891.”

The line is the only line in Queensland still measured in miles and was never connected to the state rail network. Even though the rail was laid between 1888 and 1891, the Gulflander train itself wasn’t built until 1950 in Ipswich.

“I’m very excited to have the opportunity to have my team and I deliver this unique and iconic experience to visitors coming into this remote but beautiful region of Queensland,” Queensland Rail officer-in-charge Garry Breitkreutz said.

“I have a passion for all things mechanical and a huge admiration and respect for all who contributed to our rich rail history.

“You only have to look at the beautiful buildings and machinery of our ancestors to see the skills that were required, skills that are being lost to technology today. So, I’m very pleased to be a part of preserving the past.

“Come join me on the trip. It will be a lot of fun and I will provide commentary on the local history, while pointing out unique sights, plants, and animals along the way.”

For more information, or ticketing visit the Gulflander website at www.gulflander.com.au or call 1800 577 245.

LOCAL artist Rob Mian will open his latest solo exhibition, “Between Worlds”, at the Tablelands Regional Gallery this Friday.

The Gulflander is back and ready to roll again along the scenic line.

One

creations, The Shadows It Casts”, will be part of the new exhibition.

ENTERTAINMENT

Hubbard Savannah bound

FLYING in from Nashville, USA, Florida Georgia Line’s Tyler Hubbard will be joining the jam-packed line up for Savannah in the Round.

Hubbard was first introduced to the world as half of country music duo Florida Georgia Line, where as a performer and songwriter, he sold millions of albums and has two diamond certified songs with “Cruise” and “Meant To Be”.

As a solo artist, Hubbard has been recording under EMI Nashville and released his debut self-titled solo album in January 2023.

The album has amassed more than 1 billion streams to date and features Hubbard’s first two singles “5 Foot 9” and “Dancin’ In The Country,” which both reached number one at Country Radio and have been certified two Platinum and Platinum, respectively.

He released his sophomore album, Strong, on 12 April, which features his hit singles “Back Then Right Now” and “Wish You Would”.

“I couldn't be more excited to bring my show to Savannah in the Round this October, especially in the stunning setting of Tropical North Queensland,” Hubbard said.

“Australia's natural beauty never fails to inspire, and I’m ready to lose myself in the music amidst the wonders of Mareeba, where the spirit of country meets the magic of the outback."

Tickets at www.savannahintheround.com.au

Sunday race day in Mareeba

FASHIONISTAS will be out and about this Sunday when the Mareeba Turf Club hosts the Tradies Day Races.

The race day is a special one for those who love to compete in Fashions on the Field, with the male and female winners of the local competition to have the opportunity to compete in the Brisbane final on Tattersall’s Tiara Day to be held on 29 June.

Each finalist who chooses to compete in the Brisbane event will receive $500 towards travel and accommodation.

The five-race card, which includes the Battle of the Bush Mareeba Qualifier Open Handicap over 1210m, will keep punters busy.

With $64,500 in prizemoney over the program up for grabs, the racing should be highly competitive.

Gates open at 11am on Sunday 26 May.

A SPECIAL morning tea will be hosted at Mt Carbine for the 17th year to raise money for the Cancer Council.

The event is part of the organisation’s annual Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea campaign, with last year’s participants raising more than $13 million across the country.

Mt Carbine event organiser Karen Pedersen said this year’s event on Saturday 25 May from 9am would be held at the town’s rodeo grounds and encouraged anyone to come along and enjoy the fun and add to the donations.

“The ladies will be busy cooking and we have had wonderful support from individuals, businesses in Ma-

reeba and district,” she said.

“EQ Resources’ Mt Carbine mine is also hosting a morning tea with their employees to support ours for which we are very grateful.

“Your donations provide vital support services to ensure no patient or family face cancer alone, and fund lifesaving cancer research, prevention, advocacy and support programs like Cancer Council 13 11 20 Information and Support Service for people facing cancer.”

The event will feature a scrumptious morning tea, lucky door prize, a raffle and cent sale. The cost of admission is $5.

For more details, contact Karen on 4094 8337.

ON LANDthe

Project to focus on methane reduction

A $US3.2 million project is using Queensland agricultural expertise to research ways to improve the performance and health of beef and dairy cattle while reducing methane emissions.

Part of the Foundation for Food & Agriculture Research's Greener Cattle Initiative, the project is led by the University of Illinois and involves seven international research hubs in the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, England, Israel and Norway.

The Australian research hub is a collaboration between the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries, Australian agriculture biotech company ProAgni and the University of California Davis (UC Davis).

Australian researchers will look at the effects of methane suppression products, which result in more hydrogen being released in the rumen (the largest of a cow’s four stomach compartments).

They will investigate if probiotic bacteria can capture this hydrogen and turn it into products the animal’s digestive system can use. This will

ensure sustainable decreases in methane emissions have cobenefits for cattle performance and health.

Initially the team will study a variety of hydrogen-utilising bacteria in the lab. They will add these bacterial species into a fermenter that mimics the conditions of the rumen to measure their effect on methane production and evaluate their competitiveness. The bacteria will also be tested in conjunction with methanesuppressing compounds.

The top bacterial candidates will be developed into in-feed probiotics that improve energy capture by redirecting excess hydrogen in the rumen to more productive end-products—particularly in cattle receiving methaneblocking feed additives.

This will help achieve sustainable decreases in methane emissions while boosting animal performance and health, leading to agricultural sustainability.

For more information on the Greener Cattle Initiative, go to www.foundationfar.org/ consortia/greener-cattle-initiative

Importance of milk factory highlighted

BY BRIGITTE DALEY

THE history and continued importance of the Bega milk factory in Malanda was highlighted at a recent “Growing Malanda Business Networks” event.

Initiated by the Malanda Chamber of Commerce as part of Queensland Small Business Month, the event highlighted the importance of the factory to the region.

The combination of a milk factory tour and networking luncheon offered valuable insights to the 60 attendees which included representatives from the farming, local government, and business sectors as well as members of the RSL and the general public.

Chamber secretary John de Rooy said one of the aims of the event was to allow people to experience the factory.

“Many residents from Malanda and surrounding areas have never seen inside the milk factory,” John said.

“The Bega milk factory dominates the business landscape in James Street, Malanda as the major employer in town as well as their connection to their dairy farm milk suppliers,” John said.

“The Malanda Chamber of Commerce and Bega conducted the factory tour to raise business awareness of the management complexities of the Malanda Milk factory operations, and to keep us informed of Bega’s operation and plans for the future.”

In January 2021, Bega purchased the

Lion dairy and drinks business which included the Malanda factory.

“Since taking over the milk factory, Bega has been very supportive of the Malanda community and the Malanda Chamber of Commerce,” John said.

“Our two guides through the factory were Emma Hughes and Emma Ridd from Bega, and they did an excellent job, providing all the background and facts on this very important part of the Malanda economy.”

At

Speaker Katrina Mellick also spoke on the importance of mental health.

Growers dinner date set

A GALA dinner will be held in September to showcase the horticultural industry of the region and to announce the winner for the 2024 Charlie Nastasi Horticultural Farmer of the Year Award.

ing will be announcement of the Farmer of the Year award which recognises leadership, innovation and business acumen of farmers in the region.

FNQ Growers will host the dinner on 13 September at the Mareeba International Club.

ST, CAIRNS • EMAIL: val@tuxworth.com.au

“The annual gala dinner acknowledges the leaders in our industry and the farming businesses of the region who are implementing new techniques, planting new crops and utilising innovative technologies to employ people and support local businesses,” president Joe Moro said.

A highlight of the even-

Last year’s winner Lorraine Stopford said winning the award was not just an achievement for herself but for her family and the entire team at Rocky Creek Orchards. A fundraising auction of locally grown fruit and vegetables will conclude the evening with all proceeds going to the local community through a selection of community-based organisations.

Further details and ticketing information for the event will be available in the near future.

Following the milk factory tour, a networking function and luncheon was held in the ballroom of The BIG Pub, Malanda.

the luncheon, fourth generation dairy farmer from Millaa Millaa, James Geraghty, provided a insight into the history and future of the Tablelands’ dairy industry, along with potential future opportunities for dairy farmers in the region.

Guest speaker Katrina Mellick, Emma Hughes and Emma Ridd of Bega, and guest speaker and dairy farmer James Geraghty all contributed to a highly successful event.

ON LANDthe

Major wins for Senepol stud

A GLEN Allyn stud has picked up some major wins at the recent Beef Australia 2024 event held in Rockhampton, despite it being the first outing for the operation in 13 years.

Pinnacle Pocket stud, established in 2006 by Peter Spies, is the first registered Senepol stud established north of Rockhampton and the only registered stud in Far North Queensland.

Mr Spies is understandably thrilled about winning the Senepol Grand Champion Female title, with Pinnacle Pocket SPKT30323, or “Winnie”, at the week-long event in Rockhampton which attracted more than 119,000 people through the gates.

Judge Dario Baumgarten, a former Agriculture Minister and cattle breeder from Paraguay, awarded the heifer the highest award over a lovely senior cow with a calf at foot – something that surprised Mr Spies.

“I thought she was a lovely, correct, feminine heifer… but seldom does a junior heifer win over a senior cow,” he said.

The Pinnacle Pocket Stud also won the Exhibitors (Breeders) Group with “Winnie” and another beautiful heifer that Mr Spies described as “peas in a pod” and their 22-month-old Bull Pinnacle Pocket 141 “Manuka” who also won Reserve Champion Senior Bull.

“Whilst I am chuffed about the Grand Champion ribbon, winning the Breeders Group has me more

pleased,” he said.

“It vindicates some of the tough decisions I have made by selling a core of Senepol females I bought down south in 2006-07 and selecting on fertility and starting from base droughtmaster cattle, which I used to breed over a decade ago, and using select Purebred Senepol bulls to drive fertility.

“In producing cattle, we follow best-practice commercial husbandry including early weaning, controlled mating and pregnancy testing, with cows having to produce a calf every year.

“Our branding rate is typically over 90%. All calves are raised from weaning on the Tablelands, and the stud applies strong selection criteria to retained bulls and replacement heifers with emphasis on polledness, sheath, testicles, slick coat, fertility, temperament and structural correctness.

“We have not shown cattle since 2011 and this was our first outing in 13 years, but we will be showing at Malanda and possibly some other regional shows later this year and at the Tablelands better Beef Open Day.

“I must really commend Calvary Christian College in Townsville who prepared and showed our animals and Kellie Williams, from Kel-Lee Droughtmasters, who broke the cattle in initially and prepared them before going to the school in Townsville.”

New directors keen to do job

TWO associate directors have been appointed to Gulf Savannah NRM’s board.

Shannon Rae and Donald Murray were welcomed as part of GSNRM’s Emerging Leaders Program and will advise and make recommendations to the board, while developing their governance skills.

Shannon Rae is a station manager on a largescale breeder property in the Gulf.

“This new position is an opportunity to give back to the local community and support the important work Gulf Savannah NRM delivers for the region,” she said.

“I would like to help bridge the disconnect between consumers and the agricultural industry by sharing the stories of our passionate primary pro-

ducers, as well as showcasing to school leavers all the opportunities the industry has to offer.”

Donald Murray from Mareeba is a former Organic Farmer of the Year and manages the organic farming business Nature’s Haven.

“I have been involved in natural resource management throughout my working life – both on farm and businesses serving the agricultural industry,” he said.

“I hope to contribute towards positive environmental impacts while maintaining viable outcomes for landowners and communities.”

Gulf Savannah NRM’s board members are Ellen Weber (Chair), Emeritus Professor Chris Cocklin (Director), Kate Eden (Director), Nick Hardy (Director) and Anne Clarke (Director).

New associate directors Shannon Rae (left) and Donald Murray with Kate Eden, Nick Hardy, Ellen Weber, Chris Cocklin and Anne Clarke.

Winner of the Senepol Grand Champion female at Beef 2024 Pinnacle Pocket SPKT30323 “Winnie” with her entourage including Pinnacle Pocket Stud Principal Peter Spies (second from right) and his son Thomas (right).

LETTERS

Thanks for all your efforts

I WOULD like to thank, on behalf of the Tablelands community, Caroline and Phil Emms, Steven Nowakowski, other stalwart campaigning members of Rainforest Reserves, Tim Nevard and the First Australian Jirrbal people around Ravenshoe for their relentless efforts to prevent the erection of another large wind farm on high biodiversity land near Ravenshoe.

The Emms have sunk considerable personal funds into this campaign over five years and tirelessly fought with the aforementioned to demand the state and federal governments reconsider the need for and siting of these wind farm projects.

In essence, these folk having been doing, at their time and monetary expense, the job of our governance bodies – to better protect and preserve our natural resources and environment, particularly higher altitude ridges that will become last refuges for wildlife reacting to anthropogenic, accelerated global warming.

Once again, thanks to you all for being a voice of conscience for the voiceless fauna and flora and objectivity concerning how and where we source our energy.

One down, 110 more proposed wind farms all the way down to Brisbane to go.

Michael Cole-King YUNGABURRA

Scrub clearing a mistake

IF you think getting rid of trees whose roots hold the soil together, so you can dig out the bank to create a batter will stop the erosion that was already created from your first attempt, I ask what sort of incompetence is running around in the head our TRC civil engineer?

The patch of scrub you ripped down on Davies Road is an important corridor that links what little there is left for our endangered tree roos and bird life.

I wonder if the Hedley development has our council in his back pocket or does he have them bamboozled with his promises of more ratepayers? Which he is not supplying water for, and you lot are letting them get away with using the already over used river and reticulation system that we have.

Either way, the result of your incompetence has created a BIG mess that cannot be replaced or repaired.

We look forward to wasting our exorbitant rates repairing this cock up after every heavy downpour.

Mate, you should be sacked and made to pay for the upkeep of this disaster that you have created.

It’s appalling the level of incompetent thinking with those overpaid custodians entrusted to look after our shire. Take a long hard look at yourselves ya clowns.

The Mayor, CEO, civil engineer and town planners should be sacked and held accountable for allowing the disgraceful ripping up good scrub and farmland, to cater for developers rather than looking after our piece of country.

M.

Zapa

MALANDA

Save Great Artesian Basin

TIME for words into action to save Great Artesian.

Despite what the newspaper headlines said in Brisbane on 9 May, the Great Artesian Basin remains under threat from Glencore and climate policy gone bonkers.

Frankly, I’m over reading about the Premier and his South-east Labor partner Murray Watt talking or turning up to all the photos ops – marches in Brisbane, Beef Week etc. All they are doing is making announcements and promises.

I have publicly called for an end to this madness many times now – with AgForce at the federal court, sponsoring a petition with Queensland Farmers Federation garnering over 12,000 signatures, and multiple speeches and questions in Parliament.

Meanwhile, plans are steaming forward for one of the world’s largest commodity traders to trade the future of inland Queensland for Australian Carbon Credit Units (ACCUs).

The two blokes who are posing together are in positions to make a difference – not just headlines!

Firstly, this is a federal matter at heart. The Environmental Protection Biodiversity Conservation Act is meant to do just that – protect

the environment, and conserve biodiversity instead, the boffins in Canberra in 2022 decided that a science experiment in the largest potable water source on the planet might be a good idea.

Secondly, because Littleproud and the LNP were asleep at the wheel and let Glencore’s proposal sail through, this is now Queensland problem. A Queensland problem that could be fixed in an instant.

Legislative change can be, and must be, urgently made to prohibit any Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) in the Great Artesian Basin in Queensland.

Legislation that squarely tells Glencore and their international corporate counterparts to bugger off and leave our water alone!

And perhaps most unsurprising about all this – utter silence from the self-appointed premier-in-waiting David Crisafulli.

As the leader of the Brisbane-based LNP, still clinging to that word “National” in their name, why have we heard crickets from him?

Does he support Glencore and their plan to poison water? Has he had the reigns pulled by the Canberra masters? Or is the LNP planning to deceive farmers and all inland Queensland by staying silent on such a critical issue?

Robbie Katter KAP STATE LEADER

Dad’s Army team grateful

THE Dad’s Army Great Wheelbarrow Race Team would like to thank the Mareeba community for their support given to the team for our fundraising in support of our Mareeba Hospital and congratulate the winners of our 100 Boards and raffle.

We will be approaching the hospital to determine what item of equipment they might require or how they would like the donation expended.

The Dad’s Army Team

Let’s get to digging...

FURTHER to the letters in the 15 May edition regarding the recommendations for transport improvements.

In my experience it’s always good to read how the Swiss and Dutch did it. Their expertise goes back centuries - the Dutch with water management, and the Swiss with tunnels.

Walls, bridges, roads and tunnels as we know are so expensive they are regularly churned around consultancy companies for years.

Walls are the red herrings for me as they don’t seem to work. History tells us that the Mongols were over the Great Wall of China quickly and easily.

Fast forward to Donald Trump’s wall between the US/Mexico, another failure it seems. Nevertheless, walls are being constructed in every country of the world.

Bridges are essential. The tunnel linking France to Britain is the world’s longest under sea tunnel at 50.45km. For the technical, this is the equivalent of 169 Eiffel towers on top of each other.

When this remarkable achievement was accomplished, “breakthrough day arrived’” What a surprise - the French and British were about to shake hands.

Paraphrasing, it was found that the French had flags, music, champagne and buffets for this great milestone in history. On the British side, they found a couple of tunnellers sitting down for smoko.

Hope this is not true.

The French built a large hill with their spoil and landscaped it. After dumping their spoil into the sea, it was thought that with its large contingent of chalk, it was not a good idea on the British side.

A 73-acre land area was then built named Samphire Hoe.

Tunnels can also double up as nuclear shelters. Londoners used the underground railroad in escaping Hitler’s bombs.

Let’s get digging.

Christopher Jarvis PEERAMON

Croc plan raises questions

QUEENSLAND Labor’s crocodile management plan has been amended to include Southedge Dam in its “Atypical habitat zone (Zone F)”, where all crocs are promptly removed, (Feedback sought on croc plan, 15/05).

From the Queensland Crocodile Management Plan (QCMP):

“The management objective for this zone is to keep the area free of crocodiles. Management involves targeting all crocodiles for removal once their presence has been confirmed.”

Interestingly, Labor’s crocodile management map has Mareeba itself in Zone E: “Large crocodiles are generally not removed, however size is a factor in determining the risk an individual crocodile may pose.”

How weird is that? It’s as if Labor is cool with you or someone you love being snatched by a crocodile from the banks of the Barron River or Granite Creek.

Cairns fares better under the QCMP, with most of it being Zone B (significantly reduce the number of crocodiles in close proximity to large urban areas), and some of it in Zones C and D (removal of all large crocodiles and any crocodile displaying dangerous behaviour). I guess Mareeba isn’t “large” enough to warrant the significant reduction or removal of crocodiles in its built-up areas. Or is it because all FNQ’s Labor MPs live in Cairns?

Either way, the only logical approach to managing large, deadly, stealthy, ambush predators in settled areas is to get rid of them quickly, efficiently, and cost-effectively.

There’d be plenty of customers for crocodile hunting tours, I’d reckon, and an abundance of targets within a short commute from most FNQ towns. That’d cost taxpayers nothing.

Neither the ALP nor the LNP will do anything much to eliminate the risk of croc attack within walking distance of the post office because they take their orders from the UN, which wants to depopulate large areas in accordance with its “30 x 30” plan.

That plan, which stems from the UN’s 2022 “COP15 biodiversity conference”, aims to “protect at least 30% of the planet’s land and water by 2030” – which means we humans have to go.

If we want to keep our freedom to live in the regions we need to delete the UN loyalists of the ALP-LNP UNiparty from our parliaments, starting with the state election in October.

Peter Campion One Nation’s candidate for Cook

HOW YOU CAN HELP POLICE SOLVE CRIMES

SOCIAL media and technology are making it easier for police to identify people of interest, when investigating crimes.

Images of people can be viewed by members of the public on the MyPolice Far North CCTV reel at www. mypolice.qld.gov.au/farnorth/cctv-slideshow

This reel displays people who police wish to speak to in regards to ongoing investigations including stealing, fraud, burglary, unlawful use of a motor vehicle, fare evasions and wilful damage offences, and is regularly updated.

If you can provide any information on the identity of the people pictured, you can send a reply through the link.

Police regularly update the CCTV reel with photos of people who may be able to assist with solving offences. You can subscribe to the MyPolice Far North website or follow your local MyPolice Facebook page for community and crime updates.

Head to our home page, www.mypolice.qld.gov.au/ farnorth/ and look for the CCTV reel, or search us on Facebook under MyPolice.

Paradise found in Glen Allyn

SEEKING a lifestyle property that offers the perfect blend of livestock, nature and serenity? Look no further than this stunning 66.37 hectare property boasting a prime position along the North Johnstone River.

This near level property offers gently sloping and improved pastures with rich volcanic soil providing prime fattening country. Currently sustaining 50 breeders, this is cattle husbandry at its best!

An abundance of water from three natural springs and North Johnstone frontage guarantees a reliable source for your livestock.

The property is conveniently divided into five paddocks, all permanently watered and fenced for ease. There are cattle yards with steel race, gateways and shelter plus loading ramp.

The massive 8 bay, powered shed gives you ample space to store equipment, feed and other farming essentials.

Beyond the working farm, this property boasts a comfortable Queenslander-style homestead that has been rebuilt in keeping with the original 1912 atheistic, offering a seamless blend of classic charm and modern convenience.

The kitchen is modern showcasing an island bench, granite benchtops and plenty of storage. Open plan in design with the comfort of air conditioning, ensuring a cool and comfortable retreat during the warmer months.

Relax and take in the picturesque rural views from the expansive rear deck - perfect for unwinding after a productive day.

Address: Price: Agent:

Contact:

This exceptional property presents a unique opportunity to combine a productive grazing operation with a tranquil lifestyle.

For more information contact Exclusive agent, Morgan Brennan, at Ray White Atherton on 0407 730 450 or (07) 4091 7111. www.raywhiteruralatherton.com. au/L28000608

GLEN ALLYN Contact Agent EXCLUSIVE to Morgan Brennan Ray White Atherton 0407 730 450 or 40917 111

PROPERTY

Stylish four-bedroom home with spacious shed and serene surroundings

INTRODUCING a contemporary gem to the real estate market, this modern fourbedroom abode, erected in 2016, boasts a prime location within a thriving subdivision. Situated on a generous 5000 square meters of land, this property offers a serene escape while being conveniently close to the charming locales of Malanda, Yungaburra, and Atherton. Step inside to discover a

chic and functional kitchen, seamlessly integrated into the open-plan layout, complemented by easy-to-maintain floor covers that ensure both style and practicality.

Embrace cozy evenings by the wood heater, adding warmth and ambiance to the living space. The master bedroom is a retreat unto itself, featuring an en-suite bathroom and a spacious walk-in robe, while all bedrooms are

equipped with built-in storage solutions for added convenience.

Throughout the home, new vinyl flooring exudes modern elegance, while plush carpeting in the bedrooms provides comfort underfoot. Stay comfortable year-round with the inclusion of air conditioning, ensuring a pleasant indoor climate regardless of the season. Security screens offer peace of mind, while the undercover patio beckons for outdoor entertaining, complete with a barbecue area and roller blinds for added privacy and shade.

Outside, the landscaped gardens provide a picturesque backdrop, fully fenced for added security and privacy.

A standout feature of this property is the expansive colorbond shed, measuring an impressive 12 meters by 9 meters, offering ample storage space for vehicles, equipment, or hobbies. The shed includes ample bench-

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es and shelving, multiple power points, LED lights, fans and external sink with water connection.

The garden is a horticulturalists delight with an established orchard comprising multiple varieties of tropical and subtropicals.

Raised vegetable gardens for delicious home grown produce and a combined aviary and chook pen inviting self sufficiency on a grand scale and a potential source of income.

In summary, this meticulously crafted home offers the perfect blend of style, comfort, and functionality, presenting an enticing opportunity for discerning buyers seeking contemporary living in a desirable location.

Don't miss your chance to make this property your own slice of paradise. For more details contact Exclusive Marketing Agent Kaydee Chatfield on 0417 468 941 at Main St Real Estate today.

84 Jessica Road, PEERAMON Offers in the High $800’s EXCLUSIVE to Kaydee Chatfield Main Street Real Estate 0417 468 941

someone

to

and enjoy life instead of spending long hours maintaining lawns and gardens. The property has been fully painted inside and features 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms and a large open plan living and kitchen area. There is a single lock-up garage and a paved outdoor area where you can create your own manageable garden or just sit back and enjoy the outdoors.

The 1.3KW solar panel system will help with the outgoing expenses, full airconditioned for year-round comfort, easy care vinyl flooring throughout and generous storage all add to the liveability of this package.

Constructed in 2005, this well-maintained property is perfect for someone looking for a comfortable and con-

venient home in a friendly and pleasant environment.

FEATURES INCLUDE:

• 3 Bedrooms with built-in cupboards

• Main bedroom features walk-thru robe and ensuite

• Large open plan living, dining and kitchen

• Internal laundry with generous linen storage cupboards

• Second bathroom with separate toilet

• Kitchen with abundant cupboard space including dishwasher

• Security Screens

• Split system air conditioners throughout

• Quality curtaining

• Low body Corp fees

Don't miss out on the opportunity to make this property your new home. Contact Collette today to schedule a viewing and see all that this property has to offer. Phone 0419 733 712.

Fully renovated characterful charming home

THIS beautiful timber home has been entirely renovated into a charming and characterful home with modern touches and conveniences.

Filled with character, this 'Queenslander' style home features the traditional elements that have proven family friendly for generations.

The home features beautiful contrasting timber floors though out, high ceilings that offer light and air circulation, genuine tongue and groove walls that are so easy to paint and decorate and the extra out door living space created by the front veranda.

This home is located less than 500m from the Mareeba CBD and has great space with four bedrooms plus an office area, two bathrooms with the lounge, dining and kitchen areas centrally located.

The near new kitchen of-

fers practical space for the new owner that serves both to the dining room and central living room..

The bathrooms have also been renovated with tiled floors, glass shower screens and modern vanities. The lot is well landscaped giving you privacy and large amounts of room on the 1,593m² allotment. Out the back you have the benefit of a skillion roof shed with a separate enclosed work shop which is Ideal for a man cave.

Features Include:

• Modern kitchen with soft close drawers and cupboards

Address: Price: Agent: Contact:

Highset home in a convenient location on a large block

THIS highset home is perfectly positioned on a large 1,138m2 allotment in a family friendly street. Whether you have been looking for an opportunity to get a start in the Atherton Property Market, or for an extra addition to your property portfolio? Well now is the time and here is the place.

This gem holds loads of potential for the astute buyer. Ready for you to secure and start adding your personal touches to make it "Just Right".

Features Include;

• Highset home

• 3 bedrooms, 2 bedrooms with built-in robes

• Master bedroom features a generous ensuite

• Open plan kitchen/dining room

• Galley style kitchen with a freestanding oven, dishwasher & plenty of bench space

• Separate lounge room with a cosy fireplace & airconditioning

• Modern bathroom with a walk-in shower, toilet and vanity unit.

• Polished timber floors, high ceilings & ceiling fans throughout home

• Large timber deck at the rear of home – Perfect for entertaining all year round!

• Under house storage room, garage + laundry

• Approx.7x7m storage shed

• Fully fenced 1,138m2 allotment with an electric gate

• Vehicle side access to the backyard

Ideally located in a quiet

• Central living space with hard wood floors through-out

• Full length front veranda

• Skillion roof shed / car accommodation with separate enclosed work shop

• Huge 1,593² block

• fully fenced with electric remote gate

Properties with such character and charm and located next to a creek and in town are very rarely offered for sale.

To arrange your private inspection contact Exclusive agent Rino Gava on 0427 779 086.

1 Couper Street, MAREEBA Offers Over $540,000 EXCLUSIVE to Rino Gava Sibi Girgenti Real Estate 0427 779 086

street within walking distance to Atherton Town Centre.

For further information or

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to arrange an inspection, call sole marketing agent Raquel at Sommerset Realty on 0408 983 879.

Contact: 11 Gibson Street, ATHERTON $495,000 Raquel Cunzolo Sommerset Realty 0408 983 879

Peaceful setting close to town

THIS low set Queenslander has a spacious timber deck, ideal for outdoor living.

The deck overlooks a well treed backyard which is very private.

There is a second paved patio offering a peaceful retreat. If you love timber, look no further as the home features polished timber floors throughout.

The three bedrooms are all airconditioned for year-round comfort.

The modern timber kitchen has a dishwasher, large pantry, and plenty of cupboard

space. There is a spacious island bench making mealtimes a breeze.

The dining room has a wood fireplace strategically placed to give warmth to the kitchen, dining, and lounge room, making the living area very cosy for those winter months.

The 1,012sqm allotment is fully fenced, minutes

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to town, yet here you can relax in your own oasis of peace and tranquility.

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

ATHERTON $430,000 Trisha Jackson Professionals Atherton 0419 183 145

Nestled

NESTLED away on the banks of the Barron River, this sprawling acreage property is the perfect escape tucked away amongst nature and wildlife. Enjoy the peace and privacy 325 Henry Hannam Drive, Mareeba offers, with only one close neighbour and a quick 15-minute drive into town, you will feel a world away from it all with the convenience of being near both Mareeba CBD and Atherton.

The concrete block home features a gorgeous wrap around veranda, providing beautiful bushland views and calming river sounds.

The open plan living, dining and kitchen space is great for entertainment

the Barron River

with four sliding glass doors outside to the veranda and pizza oven. All three bedrooms have sliding glass doors onto the veranda, and the bathroom and separate toilet are located beside the bedrooms and external laundry.

The property is 26.25 hectares or 64.8 acres of natural bushland, providing gorgeous scenic views, with over 200m of Barron River frontage and a seasonal natural creek bordering the house site, you can sit back, relax and enjoy all that the property has to offer. The property is also fully fenced, with a separately fenced house yard, and a water trough towards the front for stock.

Address: Price: Agent:

Contact:

To find out more or arrange a Private Inspection contact exclusive agent Vince Costas on 0419 926 691.

325 Henry Hannam Drive, MAREEBA Offers Over $950,000 EXCLUSIVE to Vince Costas Central Realty 0419 926 691 or 4092 2232

PROPERTY

Stage 6 Sunset Ridge – coming soon

STAGE 6 land release of Sunset Ridge will commence in the coming months, unveiling the second entry via Orion Avenue. Stage 6 is the flattest stage yet, offering 10 level lots ranging in size from 840m² to 1100m². With an expected completion by Christmas, you can secure your lot early and start planning your 2025 build now. Sunset Ridge is a highquality estate, and previous stages have sold quickly due to proximity to Atherton's key amenities, including the hospital, schools, main street, and even the Atherton Golf Course.

LOT SIZING AND PRICING ARE AS FOLLOWS:

- $205,000

Lot 62 - 839m² - $185,000

Lot 63 - 840m² - $185,000

Lot 64 - 840m² - $185,000

Lot 65 - 949m² - $190,000

Take a drive and see for yourself, with high-quality homes throughout, Sunset Ridge is a wonderful place to call home for families, first home buyers, and retirees.

Nestled around Mazlin Creek and boasting mountain views, this is town living at its best.

The estate maintains its country-town feel with over 3 acres preserved for parklands and meandering pathways along the forest/creek backdrop.

All lots are serviced with underground power, water,

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Agent:

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and sewerage. We invite you to contact us for more information or to stake your claim. Covenants and Survey Plans are available from our office.

Contact Michelle at Elders Real Estate for more information on 0428 116 136 or email michelle@eldersrealestate.com.au

Aurora Circuit, ATHERTON From $185,000 Michelle Raso Elders Real Estate Tablelands 0428 116 136

The position is everything

THIS is the property you’ve been waiting for! A quality built 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom home in a convenient location that offers the tranquility and privacy of a beautiful bush backdrop as well as your very own swimming hole via a permanent Creek. You’ll feel like you’re a million miles away whilst still only being 5 minutes from Mareeba town centre.

Attributes include:

• Quality built by Daniel Schincariol with 900mm eaves & 2.7m high ceilings

• Fully tiled throughout + split system air-conditioning in the living area

• 3 bedrooms with built-in

OPEN HOME THIS SATURDAY

robes, master with ensuite & sliding door patio access

• Open plan living area incorporating the lounge, kitchen & dining

• Stylish kitchen with gloss white cabinetry, Island bench/breakfast bar & Smeg stainless steel appliances

• Sizeable rear patio directly off the living area connecting to the tandem carport for extra entertaining room

• Closable central laundry & built-in hallway storage cupboard

• Tinted windows & security screens throughout

• Concrete pathway surrounds

• Tandem carport + 7m x

9m powered colorbond shed with 2 pack coated floor, insulated ceiling & 3 roller door acceses

• Fenced & beautifully landscaped 1,198m2 allotment with drive through access from the carport

• Beautifully landscaped to attract native birds with a private bush backdrop and winding path leading down to a fire pit area, permanent Creek and stunning private

Address: Price: Agent: Contact:

swimming hole Properties of this nature are very hard to find, you'll benefit from the unique location yet still be only minutes to all town conveniences. Open for inspection this Saturday from 9.30am to 10.30am.

For further information or to arrange a private inspection please contact exclusive agent Joe Torrisi.

22 Andre Street, MAREEBA Offers Over $575,000 EXCLUSIVE to Joe Torrisi Joe Torrisi Real Estate 0417 700 468

TAKE A BREAK EXPRESSO

ACROSS

1. a cup from which tea is drunk

5. a person who operates equipment or a machine

9. to cause a group to break up or separate

10. something done, made, or happening only once (3-3)

11. a white, crystalline organic acid that occurs naturally in many fruits (8,4)

13. a curved symmetrical structure spanning an opening

14. a person who worships an idol or idols

17. to pass over a stage or obstacle

18. a tropical American shrub grown for its leaves, which are the source of cocaine 20. informal term for a very long time (7,5)

SUDOKU

Enter digits from 1 to 9 into the blank spaces. Every row must contain one of each digit.

23. to taste good food or drink and enjoy it to the full

24. extremely good; excellent

25. when bowling with an outward horizontal swing of the arm (5-3)

26. of various kinds, several

DOWN

2. to produce and discharge something, especially gas or radiation

3. the action of attempting to win a person’s favour or support

4. a small monastery or nunnery that is governed by a prior or prioress

5. a software programme required to manage and operate a computing device (9,6)

6. a short sequence of keyboard letters and symbols, usually emulating a facial expression

7. a place or scene of activity, debate, or conflict

8. a British shop selling alcoholic drink for consumption elsewhere (3-7)

12. another term for tamarillo (4,6)

15. the formal acceptance of a treaty or agreement

16. an ill-defined situation or area of activity not readily conforming to a category or set of rules (4,4)

19. a large gregarious marine mammal with two large downward-pointing tusk

21. recognized, familiar, or within the scope of knowledge

22. a structure projecting from the shore into the sea, used as a landing stage for boats

WEEKLY HOROSCOPES

You may find a rare antique this week. You can expect to have some problems with skin, bones, or teeth if you haven’t taken proper care of them. You may have difficulties finishing projects you start. Don’t overdo it. Your lucky day this week will be Tuesday.

If you have treated them equitably, you might be able to count on their loyalty. Be prepared to take care of the issues at hand. Others may not have the patience to wait for you to complete things that they’ve asked you to do. Your lucky day this week is Friday.

Do not sign your life away. You have two choices; Get out on your own, or bend to your mate’s whims. It won’t take much to upset your lover. Disputes may start because of a lack of honesty. Your lucky day this week will be Monday.

If you need help, ask for it. You could expand your circle of friends if you get involved in unusual activities. Emotional relationships will be plentiful if you attend group activities. Career changes may increase your income. Your lucky day this week will be Monday.

Some of that extra energy you have stored up might just be put to good use. Finish projects that have been hanging over your head. Seminars will provide you with knowledge and amusement. You’ve been a little down and you need a lift. Your lucky day is Friday.

Your talent will be recognized. Make plans that will take you to exotic destinations. Overindulgence will mean poor health. Relatives will want to get together. Your lucky day this week will be Tuesday.

Arguments will flare up if you get backed into an emotional corner. Chances to express your ideas and beliefs can bring popularity as long as you’re not arrogant. Protect your interests legally if necessary. Relationships will be emotional this week. Your lucky day is Tuesday.

Keep your personal life, personal. Be careful not to get involved in other people’s personal affairs. Don’t bother complaining, do the work yourself. Exhaustion combined with overindulgence could result in minor health problems. Your lucky day this week will be Friday.

You will enjoy the interaction with youngsters. Don’t overextend your self finacially. Take time to find out if anyone has a better suggestion before you make arrangements for the whole family. Try not to burn the candle at both ends. Your lucky day this week will be Tuesday.

You have bent over backward trying to help them and now it’s time to let them stand on their own two feet. Try to compromise rather than having an all out battle. Change will be required to make your life more harmonious. Your lucky day is Wednesday.

Your personal situation is fluctuating. Trips, educational pursuits, or projects that could lead to new outlooks should be on your agenda. Someone you work with may be withholding valuable information. Your lucky day this week will be Friday.

Do not get involved with individuals who are already committed to others. Be diplomatic but stem when it comes to giving of yourself. Your practical approach to life may charm someone who has been observing you. Your lucky day this week will be Saturday.

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

KENNEDY, Stella Janet

Passed away on Wednesday 24th April, 2024. Aged 75 years.

Beloved Daughter of Tommy & Enid Wolfe (Both Dec.). Loving Mother of Karen, Julie, Jennifer & Megan. Wife of Ernie. Cherished Grandmother & Great Grandmother.

Relatives and friend of Stella are respectfully invited to attend her funeral service which will be held on Saturday 25th May, 2024 at Mountain View Chapel, 3 Nasser Road, Atherton, with a service commencing at 12.00pm. Stella’s service will be available to view through the following link: www.livestream. com/rapidspin/stellakennedy.

John Victor McVicar 01.07.1949 ~ 23.05.2022

You may have left our lives, forever in our hearts.

Your loving wife Robyn & family We miss you

GARAGE SALE

WHERE: Mt Carbine Rodeo Grounds

WHEN: Saturday 25th May, 2024 TIME: 9.00am

(Admission $5 includes morning tea)

• Lucky Door • Raffle • Cent Sale • Scrumptious Morning Tea

• Good Company and Lots of Fun! For more details: Karen Pedersen 4094 8337 All proceeds go to the Cancer Council.

Proposed Development

Make a submission from: 23rd May, 2024 to 13th June, 2024

Material Change of Use Dual Occupancy

Guilfoyle Funeral Services

Chapels, Crematorium & Memorial Gardens

Where: 7B Black Mountain Road, Kuranda On: 2SP287501

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

MCLOUGHLIN, David

Late of Tolga. Passed away peacefully on Monday the 13th of May, 2024. Aged 82 years. Much loved Husband of Margaret. Loving Father of Ian & Alan. Grandfather of Catherine, Jamie & Jesse. Brother of Joan, Sue, Terry (Dec.) & Michal (Dec.). Relatives and friends of David are respectfully invited to attend his funeral service which will be held at Mountain View Chapel, 3 Nasser Road, Atherton on Thursday 23rd May, 2024 commencing at 11.00am.

In lieu of flowers, donations to Dementia Australia Research would be greatly appreciated.

Approval Sought: Development Permit Application Ref: MCU/24/0009

You may obtain a copy of the application and make a submission to: Mareeba Shire Council 65 Rankin Street, Mareeba Qld. 4880 info@msc.qld.gov.au 1300 308 461 www.msc.qld.gov.au

Public notification requirements are in accordance with the Planning Act 2016.

Guilfoyle Funeral Services Chapels, Crematorium & Memorial Gardens

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

George Selim MELLICK

Late of Mareeba. Passed away peacefully on Tuesday 14th May, 2024. Aged 83 years.

Dearly loved Husband of Kay. Loving Father of George, Katrina and Alice. Much loved by his siblings, grandchildren, extended family and friends.

Family and friends are warmly invited to attend a Memorial Service to be held at St George’s Anglican Church, 49 Constance Street, Mareeba on Friday 24th May, 2024 commencing at 1.00pm

For those unable to attend, the service can be viewed by visiting the ’Tributes and Live Streaming’ webpage at www. communityfunerals.com.au.

1300 781 084

NAME: CLYDE DOB: 30/05/23 BREED: Mastiff x Staffy

English &

Your local CLASSIFIEDS

T-MSC2024-14

2024-2025 WATER MAIN RENEWAL PROGRAM

Mareeba Shire Council invites tenders from suitably qualified respondents for all works associated with the T-MSC2024-14 2024-2025 Water Main Renewal Program.

Tender documents are available on Council’s online e-procurement system, VendorPanel- https://www. vendorpanel.com.au/PublicTenders.aspx. All enquiries or clarifications must be via the online forum which will close 5 days prior to closing time. Council officers are unable to respond to verbal or emailed enquiries.

The closing time for electronic lodgement of Tenders is Thursday, 6 June 2024 at 11:00am. Regulation 228(7) of the Local Government Regulation 2012 may be applied.

Tender(s) will not be opened publicly. The lowest or any tender not necessarily accepted

Peter Franks

Chief Executive Officer PO Box 154, MAREEBA QLD 4880

In Loving Memory Of Our Father

Mother

CLASSIFIEDS

PUBLIC NOTICE

Notice is hereby given that the undermentioned roads will be closed to all vehicular traffic except residential local traffic from Friday 24th May at 8:00am to Sunday 26th May, 2024 at 1.00am unless sooner suspended, surrendered or cancelled.

the purpose of conducting the Dimbulah Lions Festival. Kennedy Street will be the alternative route for traffic wanting to pass through Dimbulah.

Water Officer

Water Resource Management

Department of Regional Development, Manufacturing and Water

Salary: $71,150 - $78,951 per annum

Location: Ayr, Longreach, Mackay, Mareeba, Rockhampton, South Johnstone, Townsville

This position is available at the following locations: Ayr, Longreach, Mackay, Mareeba, Rockhampton, South Johnstone, Townsville. Please advise your preference with your application.

REF: QLD/564385/24

Key Duties:

• Operate independently and as part of a high functioning team to meet the objectives outlined in the department’s strategic plan and business plans.

• Gain an understanding of the Water Act 2000, Water Regulation 2016 and other acts to undertake assessments and make recommendation on simple water dealings and provide initial advice to internal and external customers as required.

• Acquire knowledge of associated legislation, policy and work procedures and apply this knowledge to undertake work processes and contribute to the development and variation of such policy, procedures and processes.

• Maintain personal integrity and transparency with others.

• Seek clarification of work priorities and actively support the contribution of others to achieve the business outcomes.

• Meet deadlines and resolve issues as part of a solutions focused culture to achieve the department’s customer service standards.

• Operate a variety of software packages to ensure quality customer service is delivered and maintained.

• Provide project support by assisting with corporate functions such as asset management, mailing, stationary ordering, fleet management, and debt management

Skills/Abilities:

Vision

• Prioritises projects and tasks efficiently, in line with team commitments (Leads Strategically)

• Demonstrates flexibility to changing expectations by proactively adapting own approach to reflect new requirements (Leads Change in complex environments)

• Accepts decision making responsibility and demonstrates judgement about when to escalate issues (Makes insightful decisions)

Results

• Actively participates in team development opportunities, such as lessons learned conversations (Develops and mobilises talent)

• Listens attentively and proactively seeks to understand others’ needs by asking questions and clarifying (Builds enduring relationships)

• Welcomes challenges in the delivery of work and demonstrates persistence in working through obstacles (Drives accountability and outcomes)

Accountability

• Demonstrates personal responsibility for the health, safety and wellbeing of self and others (Fosters healthy and inclusive workplaces)

• Actively seeks feedback and modifies approach to enhance own effectiveness (Pursues continuous growth)

• Upholds integrity through responsible management and use of processes and resources (Demonstrates sound governance)

Enquiries: Melissa Giannangelo, Phone: 07 4999 6827

Application Details: https://smartjobs.qld.gov.au/jobs/QLD-564385-24

Closing Date: Monday, 27 May 2024

Experience

meals for up to 30 employees

• Monitoring food storage

• Using and cleaning kitchen equipment

• Maintaining health and hygiene in the kitchen

• Supervising additional staff if required

All meals and accommodation are provided. Property is remote and we are looking for a long term mature person to fill the role. Salary by negotiation.

Resume to:

tssmaize@bigpond.com

INTENSIVE HOUSING RESPONSE OFFICER

Mareeba Community Housing Company is recruiting for Intensive Housing Response Officer to join our team.

We are seeking motivated team member with high level of communication skills, working in our homelessness programs to facilitate transition to safe and secure housing.

This role is full time and fixed term to commence early June 2024 to 30/06/2026.

MCHC offer a supportive workplace culture, training and development opportunities, and attractive salary packaging arrangements. Selection criteria available at: reception@mchc.org.au

Applications close on 31st May, 2024 with immediate start available for the successful applicant.

Mareeba Community Housing Company is recruiting for: 5 PART TIME HOUSING SUPPORT OFFICERS

We are seeking motivated team members with high level of communication skills, working in our homelessness programs to conduct assertive outreach to homeless persons. These positions require after hours to provide 7 days service per week. These roles are fixed term to commencing early June 2024 to 30/06/2026.

MCHC offer a supportive workplace culture, training and development opportunities, and attractive salary packaging arrangements. Selection criteria available at: reception@mchc.org.au

Applications close on 7th June, 2024 with immediate start available for the successful applicant.

POSITION VACANT

ADMINISTRATION

The Express Newspaper is seeking a motivated person to fill our company administration role in Mareeba.

Experience is preferred but not necessary as full training will be available to the successful applicant.

The successful person will:

• Be our first point of contact

• Undertake all general office and administrative duties

• Take classifieds and directory advertisements

• Enter and reconcile accounts into Xero

• Process national advertising bookings

The position can be full time or permanent part time for the right person.

The Express Newspaper is a community, independent free product and offers a great opportunity for the right person to learn a myriad of valuable skills.

While no experience is necessary, the position would suit someone with excellent customer service, good administration skills and knowledge of computer office programs.

Send your cover letter and resume to: carl@theexpressnewspaper.com.au

Applications close May 24th, 2024.

AGRICULTURAL ASSISTANT

An Agricultural Assistant is required for a temporary position of 38 hours per week commencing on 17th June, 2024 (with a high possibility of extension). YOUR OPPORTUNITY

As the Agricultural Assistant you will:

• Contribute to the efficient and effective operation of the school by providing a high level of agricultural systems support to the nominated school staff

• Ensure that the agricultural field study sites, animals, crops machinery and equipment used by the school are maintained in a functional, secure and safe manner. Interested persons to apply through Smart Jobs by Wednesday 29th May: https://smartjobs.qld.gov.au/jobs/ QLD-FNR564686-24T YOUR EMPLOYER

The Department of Education (DoE) is committed to giving all children a great start, engaging young people in learning, creating safe and inclusive workplaces and investing in communities for a stronger Queensland. Our human rights commitment is to create a stronger, fairer Queensland by respecting, protecting and promoting human rights in everything we do. Our objectives are: A great start for all children, Every student succeeding, Building Queensland communities, Safe and capable people delivering our vision, Fair and safe workplaces and communities. Our vision is one of equity and excellence in a progressive, high performing education system that realises the potential of every student. For more information about the department, please visit our website at www.qed.qld.gov.au

For

SPORT

CHILLAGOE RODEO –THE

RESULTS

COWBOYS and cowgirls strapped in for an action-packed weekend at the Chillagoe Bushman’s Carnival, with Cazian Griffiths taking out the Open Bull Ride.

Rounding up 78 points at Friday night’s event, Griffiths took out the win, ahead of champion bull rider Braydon Wellby and young-gun Travis Koolatah.

Wellby has recently notched up Open Bull ride wins at Mt Garnet Races and Rodeo and the Anzac Round of the Great Northern Bullriding Series.

OPEN BULL RIDE – 1st Cazian Griffiths 78pts; 2nd Braydon Wellby; 3rd Travis Koolatah and Lee Gilbo.

CHUTE DOGGING – 1st Braydon Wellby (Dan 19.76); 2nd Ken Weldon (No Name 33.7).

NOVICE BULL RIDE – 1st Billy Bowker (67pts), 2nd Kenneth Gilbert (20); 3rd Colt Gowan, Jarod Holroyd, Sam Meadows, Hank Kendall, Gilbert O’Keefe (all 18pts).

14-U18 JUNIOR BULL RIDE – 1st Brayden Spina and Azroum Lucas (67pts); 3rd Josh Snell (64); 4th Hamish Mclean (61).

11-U14 MINI BULL – 1st Joel Jaszczyszyn 57pts; 2nd Jake Smith (51) 3rd Tayla Furber (50).

8-U11 MINI BULL – 1st Weston Hilditch (63pts); 2nd Joseph Jackson and Chase Whitehouse (62pts).

BREAK AWAY ROPING – 1st Lorraine Wellby (Battler); 2nd Shandell Hilditch (Cool Roc N Chrome); 3rd Ava Copley (Scoots).

8-U18 JUNIOR BREAKAWAY ROPING – 1st Dallon Finch (Chex 4.5); 2nd Lacey Besant (Tyson 12.68).

TEAM ROPING – 1st Dallon Finch (Chex); 2nd Robbie White Snr (Roanie); 3rd Lee Liaver (Jazz).

8-U11 JNR STEER RIDE – 1st Tyson Ford (61pts).

11-U14 JNR STEER RIDE – 1st Jake Smith (61pts).

U8 DUMMY ROPE – 1st Delta Cordingley.

U8 BENDING RACE – 1st Delta Cordingley (Fancy 23.56).

8-U11 BENDING RACE – 1st Weston Hilditch (Tamulenas Beggin 14.22); 2nd Baillie Cordingley (Angel 14.79); 3rd Alana Roy (Lachen 16.46).

11-U14 BENDING RACE – 1st Tayla Furber (One Way Roan); 2nd Gemma Warman (Melissa); 3rd Breanna Boyden (Candy's Just Four).

14-U18 BENDING RACE – 1st Shayla Jerome (Comet 11.92); 2nd Makayla Bolton (Cowboy 12.46); 3rd Jemma Swift (Docs Little Jay 12.8).

U8 BARREL RACE – 1st Delta Cordingley (Fancy 29.071).

8-U11 BARREL RACE – 1st Baillie Cordingley (Angel 19.677); 2nd Millie Bartolini (Toby 22.483); 3rd Alana Roy (Lachen 24.01).

11-U14 JUNIOR BARREL – 1st Dakayla Crawley (Boots); 2nd Tayla Furber (One Way Roan); 3rd Samantha Wright (Fluff).

14-U18 JUVENILE BARREL – 1st Shayla Jerome (Comet (17.772); 2nd Hayley Woodhouse (Cindy 17.987); 3rd Corissa Evans (Lookin Like A Playboy 18.043).

LADIES BARREL RACE – 1st Michelle Bush (Yankee 18.139); 2nd Katie Vohland (Fred 18.145); 3rd Nicole Gava (Peely 18.555).

14-U18 JUVENILE STEER – 1st Shane Dyer (66pts); 2nd Josh Snell (63), 3rd Hamish Mclean (60).

SADDLE BRONC – 1st Dan O'Connor (68pts)2nd Raymond Brown (19).

NOVICE SADDLE BRONC - 1st Dan O'Connor, Nathan Holdsworth, Alan Masters, Travis Koolatah.

14-U18 SADDLE BRONC – 1st Hayden Martin (58pts); 2nd Grant Martin, Telwyn Gilbo and Michael Burke (all 16pts).

LOCAL BULLOCK RIDE – 1st Djay Weldon (62pts); 2nd Hamish Mclean (57); 3rd Jack Czygan (53).

NOVICE BAREBACK – 1st Cody Quilliam (53pts).

NOVICE BARREL HORSE – 1st Katrina McCallum (Sister 18.576); 2nd Donna Furber (Watch Me Dazzle Em 18.789); 3rd Shayla Jerome (Comet 18.793).

POLY BUCKJUMP – 1st Dan O'Connor (65pts); 2nd Raymond Brown (60); 3rd Owen Ryan (44).

ROPE & TIE – 1st Lee Liaver (Jazz 12.64); 2nd Colin Cappler (Louie 13.05); Scott Sheppard (Lynx 13.51).

STEER UNDECORATING – 1st Kimberley Bryant (Cool); 2nd Lorraine Wellby (Dan); 3rd Nicole Gava (Peely).

STEER WRESTLING – 1st Lee Liaver (Jazz)2nd Braydon Wellby (Dan); 3rd Rick Winsor (Panther).

Making a difference through football

YOUNG indigenous students have been given a variety of opportunities in the football world including scholarships and community events thanks to the John Moriarty Football program.

The program runs in-school and afterschool programs in Kuranda and Mareeba, teaching skills such as coaching, game play, mindfulness, and nutrition.

The program also offers professional pathways to “rising stars” in the Mareeba Shire by delivering numerous scholarships while supporting their families.

Sub-programs that teach professional and social skills as well as mentoring programs

are also offered and reach over 2,000 young indigenous people every week.

Mareeba locals and young football rising stars, Robert Hostalek and Colin Walsh, are two of the scholarship recipients and are developing their skills at Westfield Sports High School in Sydney.

Currently benefiting from the community scholarship program are young locals Seth, Cassidy, and Emmett, who have received school support like stationary and one-onone tutoring as well as support for placement in sporting clubs and travel.

The scholarship aims to encourage young people to become strong leaders in their

community both on and off the field.

Head coach Bruno Silva said he was proud of how far they have come so far, and for already accomplishing so much.

“Our main achievement is the growth of the program, delivering to many communities, now running indigenous football week, gala days, community days and scholarship events,” he said.

“Where we are headed is to be developing more indigenous local coaches, being more connected in that sense, being stronger.”

Anyone looking to join the program can contact Mr Silva at bruno.silva@moriartyfoundation.org.au or call 0434 899 112.

National exposure for local rev-heads

BY ELLIE FINK

REV-HEADS have had their lifelong dreams recognised at the Northern Nats, with many local faces and cars featuring in the iconic motoring magazine Street Machine

Many car enthusiasts dream of being featured in Street Machine, one of the most loved car magazines published in Australia.

This is the first time the team have stayed for the whole three-day event, meeting with locals and visitors alike and sharing their stories.

Northern Nat's organiser and Springmount Raceway manager Michael Gonzalez said it was a privilege to have the team in Far North Queensland promoting their event and was proud of the competitors who made a feature.

“Street Machine is an iconic brand, and every motoring enthusiast dreams of having their car in Street Machine, and a lot of us never will,” he said.

“They were there taking photos and writing stories about our local races and our local track, and on Sunday, someone even came up to me, tears in his eyes, and said, ‘Mick, you wouldn’t believe it, my car made it to Street Machine’.

“He said in all his life, he had always dreamed of being in Street Machine and that meant the world to that buy – it was worth more than any trophy he would re-

ceive in his life.”

As well as Street Machine, the presence of Summernats had spectators going wild.

The new partnership with Northern Nats and Summernats attracted mass crowds from across the country and some of the highest levels of competition seen on the Springmount track.

“It is incredible to have a lot of expertise on the raceway, and they have some of the biggest and the best guys involved,” Mr Gonzalez said.

“To get Summernats involved with our

regional raceway and to have that level of professionalism brought to the table was absolutely spectacular.

“It was amazing to see people coming through the gates and seeing their reactions to the Summernat branding next to our branding – all of our signs were stolen by the end of the weekend!”

Northern Nats will be back at Springmount Raceway next year.

To see the Street Machine coverage, visit www.streetmachine.com.au/events/sevenfaves-northern-nats-2024

PHOTO BY CRYSTALYN JONES PHOTOGRAPHY.

SPORT

Jacob goes the distance for sporty bush kids

BY ELLIE FINK

TRAVELLING over 2200km every month to volunteer his time as an athletics coach, Normanton local Jacob Dennis has gone above and beyond to help rural children achieve their sporting goals.

For no repayment besides the rewarding feeling of helping young people, Jacob travels to Kurumba, Mt Surprise and Georgetown every month to host an athletics program he created.

Originally from Cairns, Jacob grew up playing rugby league, rugby union, swimming and competing in surf lifesaving.

After having a family, he moved to Normanton, where the only sports club was the local swimming club.

“I did a lot of sports growing up, and when we moved out here, I wanted my own kids to get involved in sports, but at the time, there was only the little local swim club, which we were helping with at the time,” he said.

“But it only operated in summer and not the winter and I wanted the kids to do something all year round.”

After watching his eldest son’s school athletics carnival, Jacob said he saw great potential in the students participating and decided he needed to start the athletics club.

In 2018, he managed to create the program, which has since helped young people gain scholarships, experience and valuable life and sporting skills.

“There was quite a bit of interest to begin with, especially with people I already had connections

with and that got it all started,” he said.

“Then we started going away for carnivals. I got us a minibus and started taking kids away for sport.

“We have many more kids in each town now and they have really loved joining up and it is still growing and growing.”

One of his biggest achievements as a volunteer so far has been watching one of his students receive a scholarship to go to Sydney and learn to become a personal trainer.

Jacob said she had always wanted to be a personal trainer, and now has the opportunity thanks to his program.

“I just love seeing kids doing it all and getting them into programs that will help them in athletics,” he said.

“At the moment, we are also working on a big development program for the indigenous communities in the Cape ... to take them to Townsville for some professional training ahead of the NQ Championships later in the year.”

Looking back on his volunteer time, Jacob said he was proud to see how his students have developed and hopes to continue expanding his networks and his programs to deliver more.

He encouraged everyone to put their hand up to support local sports clubs, with “many hands making light work” for them.

“It goes with the old saying that many hands make light work and the more people happy to help out and chip in, the easier it is for local sports clubs,” he said.

Paddlers set to take on Barron River challenge

THE Barron River Challenge is ready to roll, with competitors set to take on the annual downstream race feat from Mareeba to Kuranda this weekend.

The hosts from the Tinaroo Canoe Club, are expecting some of their fastest times yet, with 25cm of fast flowing water still spilling from Lake Tinaroo into the Barron River ahead of the challenge.

The challenge caters for a range of abilities and experience levels having certain categories with a 50km (BRC50, Mareeba to Kuranda), 30km (BRC30 Bilwon to Kuranda) and 20km (BRC20 Mareeba to Bilwon) races.

The BRC50 is the most popular race being ideal for experience paddlers it starts in Mareeba at the John Doyle Bridge, with an overnight stop at Bilwon to continue the final of the 52km downstream to Kuranda.

In the BCR50H (Hybrid), race competitors can change their craft for day two, allowing an advantage over the rockier conditions.

Stand up paddle boarders and relay teams can take on the BRC20 race, which goes at

a smoother and steadier pace.

Participants were asked to do a trail paddle down certain parts of the river before competing, due to the previous floods, to allow for any changes it could have caused. However, the race remains ideal for paddlers who prefer the rock free conditions of the Barron River.

This year’s challenge is especially important to local high school teacher, Brad Weaver, who is set to paddle through his 10th BRC race, sharing the honour with current Australian Masters Mara-

for

thon paddler Geoff Pearce.

Geoff’s main competition this year is Craig Elliot who is sampling the warm waters of FNQ for the first time after coming all the way up from New South Wales.

Local Jon van Ryt is also in competition with Struan Lamont, who will return to compete after coming second in the inaugural 2011 race. Further information and entry forms can be found on the Tinaroo Canoe Club’s website. Entries closing this evening (Wednesday 22 May).

Fun afternoon on the green for golfers

AVID golfers are gearing up for an “early knock off” next Friday for Mareeba Golf Club’s May Tradies Golf Day.

The Tradies Golf Day, hosted on the last Friday of every month, was created to improve the club's membership and connect tradies across the region.

The 9-hole, 2-ball Ambrose competition will be hosted on 31 May from 3pm, encouraging tradies to “knock off early” for the fun afternoon event.

This month’s winners will have their names printed on the Tradies Golf Day shield.

The day starts at 2.30pm for a 3pm shotgun start.

To register , contact the Mareeba Golf Club on 4092 1528 by 4pm Thursday. 30 May.

There are great prizes to be won with the event sponsored by North QLD Security Fitters and Mareeba Glass and Aluminium.

Upgrade for Ravenshoe netball courts

NETBALLERS in Ravenshoe are getting excited about an upgrade to their local courts, after Tablelands Regional Council awarded a $778,261 tender for a new shelter in April’s ordinary council meeting.

“This project has been a long time coming and I’m delighted that it’s finally going ahead,” Cr Annette Haydon said.

“The people of Ravenshoe will now be able to use the facility regardless of the weather.”

Richard Field Constructions were awarded the contract for the project which is funded by the Australian Government under the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program.

“I’m really looking forward to seeing the final product,” Cr Haydon said.

Construction will commence in late May and is expected to be completed in six weeks, with the hope that the courts will be able to be in full use by December.

Jacob Daniels with some of his students he volunteers to coach athletics to every month.

Paddlers from all over are in anticipation

this year’s Barron River Challenge.

Bulls secure win over Comets

IT was a neck-in-neck game for the Mareeba Bulls premier men against Southside Comets on the weekend, with the local team securing a 1-0 win.

A good defensive line and a focused goalkeeper was what kept the Bulls afloat during the away game on Saturday, according to coach Kane Alderton.

“We had good control for a lot of the game, but in saying that, they did give us a few chances,” he said.

“But we had that desperation in defence and some brilliant goalkeeping that kept us in the game, and it made for a crazy finish.”

Being awarded a penalty with only a few minutes to go, the Mareeba players were confident, but missed the goal pushing the game into extra time.

In the end, it was Steven Cater who scored the winning goal, sealing the match.

Now preparing for a home game against Stratford, the premier men are training as hard as ever and keeping their eyes on the prize.

“I think for us, training

has been really good and now it is just making sure we bring that effort and commitment we have in training to the game,” Alderton said.

“We need to bring it to the 90 minutes, and hopefully, we can get the win.”

The premier women’s team had less luck last Friday night, going down to the Comets, 3-1.

Coach Christian Mukadi said the team’s overall mentality had impacted the game and that he was now making some changes in the lineup ahead of their next game.

“The team is very much going to be working on trusting and believing each other in order to play against Stratford this week,” he said.

“I think even the girls could see on my face that I was feeling quite glum after the game. It is not the quality of the players but the quality of the mental drive they have.”

The Bulls' premier teams will go up against Stratford Dolphins at home this week.

The ladies will play at 8.30pm this Friday night and the men play on Sunday at 5pm.

Roosters claim derby title

LOCAL rivalry between Atherton and Mareeba came to the fore on Sunday, with the Gladiators and Roosters pulling out their best for hundreds of spectators for the second round of the Tableland Cup, with the Roosters finishing on top, 36-18.

Dominating the first half of the match, the Gladiators made their presence known on the Mungalli Creek Stadium in Atherton, going into the half-time break 14-12.

Tries were prolific in the first 40 minutes, with Gladiators Hubert Elu, Bronson Ryan and Kyle Hastie all crossing the try line for their team, while Roosters Aiden Day and Scott Bolton scored two for the Atherton side.

Roosters A Grade coach Joel Riethmuller described his team as feeling “lethargic” and slow to start, but fought back in the second half.

“I think the hardest thing was controlling our emotions in the first half, and a game like this has a lot of emotion in it,” he said.

“We were channelling that in the wrong direction ... but as we headed into the second half, we put our head down and stuck to the process and were able to turn it all around.”

Up until the last 20 minutes of the game, it was neck and neck, with the Gladiators fighting back against the Roosters, who kept a cool, calm and collected atmosphere on the field.

Gladiators coach Chris Sheppard showed how it’s done, taking control of the ball in the 60th minute and scoring a try for the team.

Local Atherton stars Matthew Whybird and Kaleb Nielson and award-winning local Davin Crampton also stepped in the second half, showing their best performance of the season, according to Riethmuller, solidify-

Roosters forward Davin Crampton

ing their 36-18 win by full-time.

“We recruited Dav at the beginning of the year and this was his first proper game after some injuries and I think his carries his experience around the middle which really helped a lot,” he said.

“Neilson had a one-on-one strip and went on to score one off the back of that.

“I think Matty had his best game of the year – he was full of energy, and he played a really good game of footy.”

With the team spirit bubbling over from the Millaa Millaa Rugby reunion the night before and the excitement of a local derby, Riethmuller said he was impressed with how both teams performed on the field and hoped they could carry that confidence into their next games.

“They (the Gladiators) always step up when it comes to a derby, and it doesn’t matter where you sit on the table, when the Tablelands Cup comes up, everyone lives for it,” he said.

“It was a good contest, despite there being a few injuries from them and from us and players not being available.

“And it was a beautiful arvo as well, so I am very pleased.”

In the reserve grade, the Roosters notched up a 28-22 win, while the Under 19s Gladiators took claimed victory with a 24-22 final score.

This week, the Gladiators will take on the Innisfail Leprechauns at home, while the Roosters head to Smithfield to play the Ivanhoe Knights.

Small town... Big heart!

sporting the Millaa Millaa Rugby League reunion jersey charges to the try line.