The Express Newspaper 12 June 2024

THE joy of having the Mareeba Markets back at the 100 Park was palpable on Saturday as thousands of people meandered through around 120 stalls, many accompanied by their dogs and all happy about the event being returned to its original location.

With the weather perfect for an outing, families were enjoying the variety of goods, plants, clothes and much more on offer, as well as great food from around 10 food stalls on site. Many stallholders told The Express they were ecstatic to be back. The next market will be on Saturday 29 June from 7am. – MORE PHOTOS, PAGE 12

First-time marketgoer

Donna Todd travelled up from Cairns and had a ball wandering around stalls with her six-month-old toy poodle Coco, describing the event as “absolutely wonderful”.

Cafe gives hope to DV victims

VICTIMS of domestic violence have been given a new beacon of hope when escaping their abusive homes after a Mareeba cafe donated 19 safe phones to Mareeba Domestic Violence Service.

Every month, The Hungry Pug raises money for a Mareeba Shire-based charity or group, and during May, they raised $1,371 for Queensland Domestic and Family Violence Prevention month.

When business owners, Simon and Victoria Crosby, approached computer business Circuit Tree to purchase the phones, they were met with a heartwarming surprise.

“They did us a really good deal, which

allowed us to purchase more phones than we thought we could,” Victoria said.

“These phones have now all gone to safe homes ... so when someone is ready to leave an unsafe situation, especially if they are leaving with no notice, they are able to do so with the help of the provided phone that can not be traced by the perpetrator.

“So, it gives them a sense of safety and privacy when leaving those situations,”

Knowing her business has helped 19 people escape their abusive homes is something that makes Victoria and Simon feel proud every day.

They said they were grateful for their

customers and the wider community who chipped in to help raise the money through the tip jar and a Facebook Live busking night.

“It’s them who have always gotten behind us and have done all the hard work –Simon and I are just the connection to the community organisation,” Victoria said.

“People in this community are just so willing to help and jump on board with these things.”

This month’s community tip jar will be raising money for Chillagoe State School, with the money going towards a trip to Canberra at the end of the year.

The Hungry Pug owners Victoria and Simon Crosby and employee Tayla Wilce, with some of the phones have been able to donate to Mareeba Domestic Violence Service.

Frustration grows over walking track ‘debacle’

FRUSTRATION is growing over the time it is taking for Tablelands Regional Council to find a way to provide public access to the Peterson Creek walking track at Yungaburra.

A letter from the Yungaburra Association was tabled by Cr Maree Baade at the April Ordinary meeting, with council also endorsing the chief executive officer Gary Rinehart to make further inquiries about the valuation of the land in question, tenure matters, and funding opportunities to purchase the land.

At May’s meeting, Mr Rinehart gave an update on the issue and acknowledged the community was getting inpatient, with the tourist season now well underway and visitors not able to access the track.

The letter urges the council to move to resolve the issue which, the association says, has been going on for a year, unless it will “be considered to be a debacle”.

“Our community is extremely frustrated with the lack of progress made by our council on this issue,” the letter states.

“Given the lack of progress by council over the past 11 months, it is challenging to have any confidence in the actions so far by council in securing this piece of land to save the walking track for future generations.”

The association says it has many questions “which have never been fully answered” and lists three pages of questions and information that it is seeking from the council.

The questions are related to the proposed purchase of the 2000sq m of land, which is part of Lot 3 on Penda Street, or whether the council was considering an easement and what that would involve.

They also ask about funding options and draw attention to the fact that council is set to spend $200,000 on an artwork for the Priors Creek rec-

reational precinct.

“This question is being asked given that council appears to have found the money in January 2024 to purchase a statue for the Priors Creek precinct but has not been able to find the money requested by the owner (of the land) for this important piece of land which the Peterson Creek walking track traverses through,” the letter stated.

“We implore our current council to be well informed, act promptly, be far sighted and make the right decision for our community.”

At last month’s meeting, Mr Rinehart said the organisation had been working on a business case to be present to the State to assist with funding to buy, needed to open the track to the public.

"We implore our current council to be well informed, act promptly, be far sighted and make the right decision for our community”

“We’re using an economic consultant who’s working on some other matters as well, to support that,” he told the council.

“We have sought some input in relation to businesses in relation to activity so we can work out the economic benefits of that walking track to support our case to the state.

“Cr Baade and I met with members of the Yungaburra community over private funding opportunities, crowd-funding etc but we’ll see how the applications to the state play out before we spend too much time on that.

“I have asked the valuer to review the valuation in light of the area and the tenure now proposed for that part of Lot 3 that we are seeking to

acquire an interest in.”

He had also had discussions with owner of Lot 1 in regards to the walking track and some other matters we need to resolve.

“In short, we’re continuing to work on it,” he said.

“I appreciate the concerns in the community about the amount of time it’s taking, but it is ac-

quiring interest in private land which is necessarily a drawn-out process.”

Cr Baade asked if the council had determined whether it could assist with “temporary insurance” cover for those using the track.

Mr Rinehart said the matter was being progressed through council’s solicitors, but “at this stage (I’m) not optimistic that we can do that”.

Chris Fanning from Newcastle was disappointed last week when he could not access the Peterson Creek walking track.

Land valuations ‘not needed’

LANDOWNERS may be able to breathe a sigh of relief after Tablelands Regional Council advised the Department of Resources that it does not want land valuations done again this year.

The department seeks the views of councils each year as to whether they believe a valuation is necessary and got the same answer from TRC last year that new valuations were not needed.

The last revaluation implemented across the region came into effect on 1 July 2023.

Successive land valuations over the past few years have resulted in high increases, particularly for grazing and primary production properties, triggering significant rate rises for those landowners.

In a report, officers advised councillors that the last valuation that came into effect in July saw significant property valuation movements across the entire region.

“To alleviate some of the impact of these changes, council implemented averaging of valuations across three financial years in accordance with the averaging methodology outlined in the Local Government Regulation 2012,” the report stated.

“Due to this averaging, general rates are currently applied to the averaged value, not the full value determined by the Department of Resources.

“Should averaging continue to be applied, the full property value will not be reached and therefore not used for rating purposes until 1 July 2025.”

The significant movement in valuations prompted the council to raise several motions in relation to rates at last year’s Local Government Association of Queensland conference including that valuations be conducted every three years for rural local governments and that the value of a water licence be removed from the unimproved value of land.

Shed more than just a building

A NEW metal working facility that has taken years of planning and fundraising has finally opened its doors.

Malanda Men’s Shed has opened the new facility in Park Avenue after eight years of planning and fundraising by founding members, with support from the local community, businesses and elected representatives of the region.

The new shed will host metal work (welding and fabrication) to complement existing activities at the Mary Street venue where leatherwork and woodwork are conducted.

MMS president Graham King invited shed patron Cr Dave Bilney to officially open the new shed by cutting the chain with bolt cutters.

“This occasion marks a significant milestone for our community, one that signifies unity, growth, and the fostering of strong, supportive relationships,” Cr Bilney said.

Mr King said the shed was not about the facilities or activities but about the members, who “came from all walks of life to laugh and learn from each other”.

He said the social isolation of older men could be overcome in the “shed environment”.

The new shed cost an estimated $160,000 of which about $75,000 was from grants, including Ratch and the Community Benefit Gambling Fund, with Mr King thanking former “Shed executives” and treasurer Graham “Digger” Downes for the strong financial position of the Malanda Men’s Shed.

“Most of the plant and tools in the new shed have been donated by the local community and refurbished by members under the stewardship of coordinators John Warren and Don Evans,” he said.

Cr Bilney spoke with great passion at the opening about the new facility and what the shed provided to men in the community.

“This shed is more than just a building; it is a symbol of camaraderie, resilience, and community spirit. It serves as a sanctuary where men from all walks of life can come together, share their skills, learn new ones, and most importantly, support each other,” he said.

“In today’s fast-paced world, such spaces are

invaluable for fostering mental health and wellbeing. Here, friendships are forged over shared projects and laughter fills the air as stories are exchanged.

“The Men’s Shed offers a place where men can find a sense of purpose, belonging, and pride in their achievements, whether they are building a piece of furniture, making some leather items, or simply enjoying a cup of coffee with mates.

“The impact of the Men’s Shed and in particular the Park Avenue Shed, extends far beyond its walls. It strengthens our community by providing opportunities for mentorship, skill development, and social interaction.

“It creates an inclusive environment where everyone is welcome, and everyone’s contribution is valued.”

Both facilities at Mary Street and Park Avenue are open from 9am to midday on Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings. New members are welcome to drop in for a look at 12 Mary St, Malanda or contact the Secretary on malandamensshed@ gmail.com

Members of the Malanda Men’s Shed and Tablelands Deputy Mayor Cr Dave Bilney (right) at the facility’s opening last week.

Public fury over bridge revelations

REVELATIONS that the Barron River bridge could remain a single lane for 5-6 more years until a new structure can be built has raised the ire of the community who vented their frustrations across social media last week.

The Express revealed last week that the bridge may only allow single-lane traffic and trucks could be banned from using the bridge or have to operate under a permit system or with tonnage limits.

The Express also revealed that Member for Barron River Craig Crawford believes there is a need for an alternate route from the northern Tablelands to Cairns and that the government needs to identify that corridor and get on with making it happen.

Since the news broke, locals have vented their fury about the range road and the bridge, blaming government for not acting quicker and strongly criticising the decision to install the Intelligent Transport System that cost more than $30 million instead of spending the money on replacing the bridge.

Others have been quick to draw comparisons between the Fitzroy River crossing bridge that Western Australian authorities managed to get reconstructed in six months, and the estimated 5-6 year timeframe Queensland authorities say it will take to replace the Barron River bridge.

The Express story attracted more than 350 comments on its Facebook page featuring the articles on the bridge and alternate road.

“Labor blew over $40 million stuffing up the range by digging it to put

in the speed signs, Intelligent Traffic System and over another $40 million building a cassowary overpass at Tully that even the conservationists say won’t work,” Max Dickenson wrote.

“And yet Crawford and Brisbane Labor sat on a report done 10 years ago telling them the bridge was in trouble.”

“Bring in the contractors that built the new Fitzroy River bridge bigger and better in under 12 months,” Nathaniel Stasse wrote.

“Don’t forget in the west they built a bridge in 11 months over the Fitzroy. I wonder where our Member for Cook is?” Locky Bensted commented.

“So glad they pissed away nearly $40m on the variable speed signs that ultimately contributed to destroying the range road while they had a 2015 report stating there was major concerns with the bridge. Thanks Crawford and Co for repeatedly defending that project,” Max Nulley wrote.

“Never mind just worrying about the bridge – what about the road down the range? Some zip ties and duct tape and it's good for another 30 years?”

John Noack said.

“The entire road corridor needs to be replaced with something fit for purpose not patched up when it's many years past its use-by date.

“Show some guts as our local member Mr Crawford and push for the ultimate long-term solution to our problem and don't be dictated to by the government of Brisbane.”

“It’s one of the biggest disgraces of any government,” Robert Watkins said.

“Such a massive load of BS – the whole Kuranda range and bridge. Nothing has been done, it’s pathetic.

“The traffic control people pressing

“Here’s an idea – let’s keep the $600 million the government is giving PNG to start a football team and build us a new bridge,” Robyn Merenda wrote. “State and Federal governments are robbing FNQ. State Government takes our taxes and builds the great Southeast new roads, tunnels and fancy train stations. We get a one lane goat’s track highway and a rickety old bridge. Federal Government takes from us and gives money to PNG and all the illegal boat people.”

more than the repairs. Actually, where are the local members on this why isn’t anything been done other than passing the buck. I think we should all protest and make a stance and stop taking this stuff.”

Graduates step up as firefighters

PROTECTING and serving the community runs in the blood of Natasha Isabella and Dean Pacitto – two young auxiliary firefighters who have just taken on roles at their local fire stations.

The two new Queensland Fire and Emergency auxiliaries have just graduated from their training course, are now stationed in Atherton and Malanda, and are ready to jump into action.

After spending her childhood hearing the stories of her father, Atherton Captain Jimmy Isabella, saving lives, 19-year-old Natasha knew she had to become a firefighter.

After witnessing a house fire at the end of high school, she knew becoming a firefighter was what she wanted to do while also completing her hairdressing apprenticeship.

“I thought it was pretty cool what the firefighters were doing – saving casualties and properties – so I started going to Monday night training with my dad,” she said.

“I was about to become of age (18 years old), so I kept going to training to see what it was all about.”

When Captain Isabella learned his daughter wanted to be an auxiliary, he was excited, especially knowing a new generation of firefighters was coming through.

“My first reaction was also to make sure I look after her,” he said.

“I look after all of my crew, but the big thing is that everyone comes home to their families, which is my main priority. But yeah, I am excited for the new generation and for my daughter to come along.”

For 29-year-old ex-serviceman Dean, being an auxiliary firefighter is how he gives back to his wife and in-law’s community of Malanda.

After spending many years as an ambulance driver in the army and living in Brisbane, he moved to Malanda and was convinced by his father and uncle-in-laws to join QFES.

“I didn’t really think much about it until I moved here, and my father-in-law told me to come check it out and see what I thought,” he said.

“I went into the training talks and had a chat with the captain and learned about what firefighters did, which was pretty cool, and then I decided to join.”

So far, Dean has attended a chimney fire, where he used heat detection tools and worked with homeowners to protect their property from further damage.

While it was “less exciting” compared to other call-outs he would receive in his career, he enjoyed being there to help a local family and is ready for his long career ahead.

“I am always pretty optimistic with any job I have...and everyone I have met at the station has been pretty nice, and I enjoy working with them all, and Malanda is an incredible community to be a part of,” he said.

Natasha echoed Dean’s words about the Atherton Station and said she felt supported, especially as only one of two females in the crew.

“It’s great to be another girl at the station... nd it’s good to know that if you feel unsafe on the job, you can say ‘no’, and they don’t make you do things that are uncomfortable,” she said.

“It’s a good family we have here.”

Other recent graduates include Nadine Welch, who has joined the Cairns South Station; Adam Tickner, who has started working at the Cardwell Station; Kyle Jose at the Mossman Station; John James at the Cooktown Station; Stephen Bowden, who has joined the Tully Station; and Troy Nowlan, who has joined the Thursday Island Station.

New graduate firefighter auxiliary Natasha Isabella and her father, Captain Jimmy Isabella, at the Atherton Station.

Dean Pacitto has recently joined the Malanda Fire Station as an auxiliary firefighter.

Positive moves for Tablelands economy

THE Tablelands economy is continuing to grow strongly, with the latest figures showing the region’s gross regional product (GRP) is now standing at $1.59 billion, unemployment at only 3.1% and the highest number of people in jobs since 2001.

The economic indicators are for the Tablelands Regional Council area and show its most productive industry – agriculture, forestry and fishing –is now generating $304 million, which is up by $40 million from 2016-17.

Next was mining at $152.2 million, then Health Care and Social Assistance at $140.3 million ($33 million more than 2016-17), followed by construction at $102 million.

The agriculture, forestry and fishing sector also has the largest output of all industries, generating $701 million in 2022-23, which is almost double what it recorded in 2001.

No doubt this has helped boost the region’s GRP for the region which is the highest in nine years and up by 1.8% over the previous year.

In the employment space, the Tablelands had 11,012 jobs in 2023, the second highest in 20 years and 2.88% more than in 2022.

There were 12,094 residents employed in the year ending June 2023 – a 3.5% rise on the previous 12 months.

In the 2023 September quarter, the unemployment rate on the Tablelands was 3.1%, below the national figure of 3.6% and state figure of 3.8%.

Last year, the household services sector – which takes in accommodation and food services, education and training, health care and social assistance, and arts and recreation services – accounted for 39.0% of employment on the Tablelands. This sector has increased by 33.7% in the past 11 years.

Tablelands Mayor Rod Marti couldn’t be happier with the latest figures, saying “our major economic indicators are moving in a positive direction”.

“I’m particularly pleased with the growth in agriculture sector, which is our most productive industry as well as growth in our healthcare sector,

which recorded a strong increase in jobs.

“Both industries have positive flow on impacts across our broader economy.

“A slow-down in the construction industry was expected due to the completion of the Atherton Hospital, however our Incentive Policy is supporting our strategic industries including construction, housing and health.”

Mayor Marti said it was no surprise the region continued to grow in all ways.

“We are not immune to economic head winds, like high interest rates and rising costs, but our housing is affordable compared to major metropolitan areas and, when you look at our region, you can understand why it is growing,” he said.

“The lifestyle we offer is great for families and older people. It’s cooler than the coast, our community is welcoming, and living is affordable.

“There’s plenty to see and do – galleries, markets, nature, wildlife, cycling, swimming, kayaking – and we have a strong sense of community.

“As a council we are investing in this lifestyle. We’re making sure our infrastructure is growing to meet future need and investing in shared places like the Priors Creek Development and Millaa Millaa Falls improvements.”

The new economic figures show that local sales by industry (measures the output of local industries that is sold locally) rose by $536 million between 2000-01 and 2022-23, with increases in health care and social assistance (+$132 million), construction (+$80 million), professional, scientific and technical services (+$47 million), and the retail trade (+$46 million).

Overall, construction had the highest local sales, generating $369 million in 2022/23 – up by 21.7% from 2001.

An analysis of the total exports by industry sectors on the Tablelands in 2021-22 shows the three largest industries were agriculture, forestry and fishing ($564 million), mining ($123 million), and manufacturing ($84 million).

In combination, these three industries accounted for $771 million in total or 78% of the total exports by industry on the Tablelands.

New era for iconic sculptures

ICONIC fibreglass sculptures outside the Eacham Historical Society have been given a breath of new life after the original artist’s grandson returned to the Far North to restore them.

Viv Plant’s sculptures “Nugget the Horse”, “Harry the Farmer”, and “Pooch the Dog” hold great significance in the local community and depict Malanda’s rich dairy farming culture.

Early this year, Tablelands Regional Council approached Viv’s grandson and Brisbanebased artist Adam Plant with the opportunity to restore the sculptures to their original form.

With his “nanny” Viv by his side to “lap me up the head if I do a bad job”, Adam accepted the job and has completely transformed the old sculptures.

“There have been little bits of restoration work done over the years, but it was mainly just little paint touch-ups, and as time went on, the touch-ups weren’t cutting it,” he said.

“I was able to come up and do a full restoration job, and it definitely needed it because all the fibreglass had been frayed away. I had to sand them all down and bring it back to how it looked when I was a kid.”

When Viv saw the finished product, Adam said she was very excited to see her vision relived.

“She has been the absolute foundation of my creativity since I was young, and I remember thinking as a kid, her doing these fibreglass sculptures were great,” he said.

“So growing up she was a huge influence with both her technical skills and her wild sense of humour – both have really rubbed off on me.”

When looking at the restored pieces, Adam said he felt proud of his achievements and hoped the community would be proud of them.

“I am absolutely thrilled, and I think it has been wonderful to come back to Malanda... and hear people coming past while I was working to express how much these sculptures meant to them,” he said.

“So many people know my nanny and they would come up to me and say how wonderful she is and I even gave a few of them a history lesson.

“They have made a huge impact in the area, and as a kid, I kind of grew up thinking ‘, oh, it’s just nanny’s art’, not knowing how much people truly care about these things.”

In the past, the Malanda Men’s Shed has worked with Viv to restore the Malanda Dairy Sculpture, which depicts a farmer carrying milk bottles next to a tractor.

Adam and Viv Plant have restored Viv’s iconic fibreglass sculptures.

Lend your voice to council

PEOPLE in the community who want to have input to Tablelands Regional Council can now apply to be part of 13 advisory committees.

“We’re looking for passionate volunteers in our community to ensure the delivery of high quality, accessible and relevant services that reflect community need,” Mayor Rod Marti said.

“The committees assist us in understanding the current and changing needs in the community and provide options to address these needs.

“Committee members need expertise, passion for or lived experience in the advisory committee they are applying for.”

The council is seeking members for the following committees: Agriculture, Cycling, Herberton Mining Centre, Herberton Mining Centre Gift Fund, Natural Assets Management, Malanda Falls Visitor Centre Gift Fund, Rating, Ravenshoe Visitor Centre Gift Fund, Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF), Rocky Creek War Memorial Park, Tableland Regional Gallery, Tableland Regional Gallery Gift Fund, Youth and Inclusion.

To see terms of reference and submit your expression of interest go to www.trc.qld.gov.au/ committees by 5pm on Sunday 16 June. Membership is for the next four years.

Jaquai takes top spot in state broker awards

LOCAL mortgage broker Jacqui Webb has been named the winner of the prestigious Mortgage and Financial Association of Australia’s (MFAA) Queensland Regional Finance Broker of the Year Award for 2024.

Jacqui, the founder of Ignite Financial NQ, held out strong competition from industry peers, including brokers from regional cities.

“The Regional Broker Award is for brokers who operate outside of Brisbane city, so we were up against some stiff competition from locations with much larger property markets,” Jacqui said.

“I am thrilled to have won this award. It’s a testament to the hard work and dedication of my team; and it gives me hope that the industry is willing to celebrate and, hopefully, shift towards more sustainable and people-focussed practices,” said Jacqui.

Starting Ignite Financial in 2019, Jacqui’s mission has always been clear: to build a business that prioritises the well-being of her team and enduring loyalty of her clients, in contrast to common industry practices that often value transactional success over long-term relationships and employee welfare.

Jacqui has been vocal about the challenges faced by women in the mortgage broking industry, particularly the

risk of burnout as they strive to establish and grow successful businesses.

Her approach to work-life balance and creating a supportive work environment is a cornerstone of her philosophy.

“Winning this award gives me hope that we can change the narrative and create a more supportive industry for

everyone,” Jacqui said.

“Ignite Financial was also named as a Finalist for TRC’s Champion Business Award on Saturday, 25 May, so it has been a massive week.

“I am deeply proud to have been recognised in this way, and I will continue to push the boundaries and work towards setting new standards in our industry.”

Ignite Financial NQ founder Jacqui Webb is the Queensland Regional Finance Broker of the Year.

Organisers ramping up for big Mareeba Rodeo

THE “cream of the crop” of Australian bull riders will converge on Mareeba next month for the town’s iconic rodeo as organisers ramp up for the two-day event.

“We’re going to have the cream of Australian cowboys and cowgirls at Mareeba rodeo this year,” Rodeo Association president Peter Brown said.

“We will have an Australian champion bull rider – there’s a lot of champions coming, so you’re going to see the cream of the crop so make an effort and come out.”

To encourage even more patrons to the 13-14 July event, Mr Brown announced that ticket prices for the Sunday program would be reduced this year and kids will also be able to enter for free on Sunday.

After an extended wet season, Mr Brown said it was great to see the weather improve for the tourist season.

“It’ll be good to just get back and get a full-blown rodeo (happening) and get something done for Mareeba,” he said.

One of the most popular bull riders in the north, Braydon Wellby, will be among many other top cowboys and cowgirls who will compete at the rodeo and are guaranteed to deliver the thrills and spills patrons expect to see in the arena.

With more entertainment announcements still to come, organisers have opened up applications for a myriad of program events including the Rodeo Queen and Princess quest, the annual garden awards, ute muster, downtown parade and agricultural show.

The Queen and Princess competition is always one of the most anticipated events, with last year’s Rodeo Queen Raquel France encouraging young wom-

en to enter the prestigious annual contest which has been running since 1959.

“The rodeo queen competition is an amazing learning experience,” she said.

“You meet so many different people, get involved in the community, learn about etiquette and have the best fun while doing it,” Raquel said.

“Put yourself out there, you can only benefit from the experience.”

Entrants must be 16 to 25 years of age and participate in many of the rodeo program’s events such as the Rodeo Ball on

6 July, the garden awards, the cowpokes competition and the downtown parade on 12 July.

Queen applications are due before 12pm Monday, 24 June. Official judging takes place on 7 July and the winners are announced at the parade.

The 2024 Mareeba Rodeo program kicks off on 29 June, with the popular Junior Cowpokes competition.

Entry opens at 12 noon on the day of the event and judging will begin at 1pm.

Garden enthusiasts are also being

urged to be part of the annual rodeo garden competition which offers cash prizes for each of the 12 categories.

One lucky winner will receive the Champion Garden award, receiving garden vouchers and goods valued at $1000, while first place winners for each category will receive $100, second place $75 and third place $50, all with a respective sash.

Garden Awards entries close on Wednesday, 26 June.

Another very popular event associated with the rodeo is the ute muster, offering local enthusiasts to enter seven different categories – street, classic, B&S, chicks, 4x4, town and country, and feral ute.

Nomination fees for each category are $10 and winners will be asked to participate in the annual downtown parade.

Entries are now also open for the parade down Byrnes Street which is a traditional feature of the rodeo program.

The parade floats feature rodeo queen contestants, best themed floats, local businesses and bicycles, with prizes varying from $30-$175

Rodeo organisers are also seeking volunteers to assist with this year’s event. Anyone available between 8-14 July to assist with both set up and take down of the event should go to the rodeo’s website to apply.

“Be a part of your local community and come out and get involved,” Brown said.

“There’s a lot of things coming, so come and be a part of it.” Applications to enter all competitions can be found at www.mareebarodeo.com. au/applications.

Feral cattle program takes off in Cape

A FERAL cattle control program will be conducted later this year in four national parks across Cape York Peninsula in a bid to prevent damage to water bodies, rare and endangered plants, habitats for endangered animals as well as places of cultural significance for First Nations Peoples.

QPWS conducts regular feral animal control programs in the Cape York Peninsula region, often targeting feral pigs, feral cats, feral horses, and unbranded cattle.

This new program will focus on the Rinyirru National Park in Lakefield, Olkola National Park, Oyala Thumotang National Park and Cape Melville National Park.

An aerial monitoring and satellite tracking program on Cape York Peninsula Aboriginal Land (CYPAL), conducted in 2022 and 2023 by QPWS and the CSIRO, used helicopters and satellite tracking to establish the number and movement patterns of feral cattle, as well as their distribution.

Vehicle regos to be cut by 20%

QUEENSLAND registration fees will be cut by 20% for all light vehicle registrations for a 12-month period from 16 September.

Notice of the 20% discount will start to appear on renewal notices sent to customers from 5 August. The reduction will apply to the registration fee and the traffic improvement fee for all light vehicles and will apply to motorcycles and trailers.

The move is part of the upcoming State Budget which was announced on Tuesday.

The reduction will see a 12-month registration bill for a private use four-cylinder vehicle reduce by almost $85, bringing registration fees down to $338.75, excluding CTP.

For vehicles registered on a pensioner concession, the reduction will be nearly $50 and will reduce registration fees down to $194.50, excluding CTP.

Cash boost for apprentice tools

THOUSANDS of first-year apprentices can now get up to $1,000 cash back from the State Government as part of a push to support around 4,000 new apprentices in trades including construction, plumbing, and electrical.

The $4 million Free Tools for First Years program will cash back of up to $1,000 for industryrelevant tools, the program helps reduce the financial burden on those starting their careers in these essential fields.

Minister for Housing, Local Government and

AN old building next to Meals on Wheels in the Atherton Showground precinct will be disposed of, allowing the meal service to expand.

The building at 10 Louise Street was recently investigated after Tablelands Regional Council received a customer inquiry about the future of the structure.

Planning and Minister for Public Works Meaghan Scanlon said the initiative was aimed at supporting apprentices in the hope that it will boost the construction industry.

“We’re giving Queenslanders the actual tools they’ll need to help build more homes, faster,” she said.

“The price tag on tools can be a barrier for many Queenslanders wanting to take up a trade, and the businesses who want to hire them - we’re tackling that barrier with cashback.”

New chair on board for Disability Matters

SEASONED healthcare professional Donna Goodman has stepped up as chairperson of Disability Matters after farewelling previous chair Kirsty Veron.

Her career included 10 years on the executive management team of Cairns and Hinterland Hospital and Health Service until her retirement in 2022.

POLICE are appealing for public assistance following a traffic crash at East Barron earlier this month.

Initial information indicates around 11.20am on 3 June, a motorcycle and car collided on Curtain Fig Tree Road.

The driver of the motorcycle, a 41-year-old man, was taken to Atherton Hospital with non-life-

Council will first explore market demand for the building’s material before it is demolished.

In an email to council, Atherton Meals on Wheels advised that should TRC proceed in demolishing the building, “it is our intention to lodge an application to expand our existing kitchen building on this site”.

Officers commenced an investigation to ascertain the building’s condition, its utilisation and historical significance and deemed it suitable for disposal as it “is unserviceable, operationally inefficient and beyond economic repair”.

Old Atherton building to go Appeal for crash information

threatening injuries.

Between 1.30pm and 5pm that day, the motorcycle that had been involved in the collision was taken from the scene.

Investigations are continuing and police are urging witnesses, or anyone with dashcam or CCTV to come forward.

Since 2018, Ms Vernon has played an important role at the largest National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) provider on the Atherton Tablelands, meeting the company's goals to help support people with disabilities.

“I feel privileged to have had the opportunity to work with Disability Matters over the past almost six years”, said Ms Veron.

“During that time, the organisation has transformed from a local community organisation into a strong, professional, not-forprofit business that is dedicated to putting the welfare of its participants at the heart of all its decisions.

Ms Goodman is a seasoned professional with a wealth of experience in psychology, healthcare, and executive leadership and is excited to step into the new role.

Throughout her tenure, Donna was key in managing clinical services and spearheading initiatives to enhance clinical governance and quality assurance.

"We extend our deepest gratitude to Kirsty Veron for her outstanding leadership and invaluable contributions," CEO Greg Thiedecke said.

"Her dedication and vision have been instrumental in shaping the organisation's journey, and we are profoundly grateful for her service."

Disability Matters is seeking passionate locals to join the board, particularly as board secretary and treasurer. To get involved and for more information, email greg.thiedecke@ disabilitymatters.org.au

Kirsty Veron passes the reigns to Donna Goodman as the chair of Disability Matters.

Major expansion on the cards for crater retreat

A MAJOR expansion is on the cards for the award-winning Mt Quincan Crater Retreat which has lodged an application with Tablelands Regional Council to boost its stock of luxury accommodation and establish a microbrewery on the property.

The site currently features six secluded treehouses, complete with spas, fireplaces and full kitchens, with views of the Tablelands or the Mt Quincan crater, as well as a tea house which occasionally hosting wedding functions.

Owners, Kavorka Pty Ltd, now want to expand the retreat’s accommodation capacity, applying to establish 13 more cabins as well as a new café, to replace the tea house, and a microbrewery.

According to the development application, 12 studio-style villas that include a kitchen, living area, bathroom, a veranda and suit two people, will be constructed, while a special “honeymoon suite” villa will be built that will feature a spa and plunge pool.

The new villas will accommodate an increase of 26 guests which will trigger the need for an additional two part-time staff members.

“With the exception of the proposed microbrewery, the proposed development does not involve any new uses or activities on the site, only an expansion in the scale and intensity of existing, lawful uses,” the application states.

“The proposed café is intended to replace the existing, lawful ‘tea house’ use on the site so the reception area (where the tea house is restricted to) can be more suitably utilised for weddings and by guests staying at the retreat.”

The document states that the microbrewery and café were expected to have a capacity of around 50 people a day and would require three staff, with opening hours likely to be around 11am-7pm, although opening hours could vary from time to time for events.

The owners believe the expansion of the crater retreat will deliver broad benefits to the region.

“The proposed development will create addi-

tional tourism opportunities for the region – that is, nature-based accommodation options, food tourism, cottage industry etc – and, in doing so, increase the number of people visiting the site and the region as a whole,” the application states.

“This will add to the tourism ‘appeal’ and offerings in the Tablelands region, of which will have flow-on benefits for the entire region.

“The potential benefits that the proposed development can bring to the region should, therefore, be an essential consideration in council’s decision-making process.”

According to the application, the proposed development will not have any adverse visual impacts on the surrounding area, nor have any impacts in terms of noise, traffic, dust and odour.

The report also highlights that the retreat is “suitably located in the rural zone, namely due to it being an extension to existing, lawful land uses, but also due to it being functionally reliant

on the scenic values, the rural backdrop and the key environmental features present on the site”.

“The proposed development will also include a cottage industry (microbrewery) which, when suitably scaled, is supported in the rural zone, and a café which will focus on utilising local produce from surrounding farms wherever possible,” it states.

“In relation to agricultural land, the report has demonstrated that the eastern most, flatter portion of the site will continue to be used for rural activities and that the proposed development will only be located on the parts of the site which are unsuitable for typical rural activities.”

The application has been lodged with council for assessment and will be impact assessable which means locals will have an opportunity to lodge submissions for or against the development once the community consultation phase commences.

TRADITIONAL Owners of Cape York Penin-

sula and Torres Strait have created the ultimate travel guide for visitors to the “tip” of Australia.

The Cape York Tourism Guide, produced by the Torres Cape Indigenous Council Alliance (TCICA), provides information on everything from where to stay and popular events, to Indigenous culture, language and history.

“This is a great source of information for travellers journeying to Cape York and Pajinka which highlights the extraordinary Indigenous culture of this remote region and shares a range of practical travel tips on safety, national park etiquette, events, accommodation, food supplies and medical services,” TCICA executive officer Michael Miller said.

“We are excited about welcoming people to the Cape and sharing our stories.”

A comprehensive, 96-page booklet, the guide was broken into sections on local council areas, townships and settlements, and what they have to offer.

Each section provides a history of the area, people and culture, ecological highlights, food and supplies, where to stay, alcohol policy, pictures of the flora and fauna, and street maps.

Travellers can download a copy from the TCICA website to save on their devices, and the live links throughout are accessible when in internet range to make bookings.

It also incorporates information from the Cape York NRM Thoughtful Traveller information guide, which provides hygiene, rubbish removal, animal safety, driving hazards, and boating safety tips, as well as other environmental precautions such as cleaning vehicles from seeds or weeds, to prevent their spread before leaving the Cape.

“The focus of the booklet is strongly on cultural and ecological highlights of the region, which will offer the visitor a deeper understanding of the uniqueness of the Country they are travelling in,” Dr Tammie Matson, who managed the TCICA tourism project, said.

The travel guide is available at www.tcica. com.au/cape-york-tourism-guide

An artist’s impression of what the new proposed villas at Mt Quincan Crater Retreat would look like.

CRIME STOPPERS: Tell us what you know, not who you are!

ALL community members are reminded that they can play a significant role in disrupting, solving, and preventing crime.

Local police are urging all community members to join forces and report information about crimes they see occurring, including those manufacturing and supplying illicit drugs in the community.

Crime Stoppers operates 24/7 and encourages community members to take that step to provide information to Crime Stoppers anonymously by reporting via phone or online.

Community information is vital to Crime Stoppers, local police, and our community as it allows us to work together to create safer communities.

Rest assured, Crime Stoppers guarantees your anonymity.

Specific measures have been taken to ensure no information about your identity or location is recorded, providing you with complete peace of mind.

You have the peace of mind that we don’t need to know who you are. We need your information, which could help solve a crime puzzle.

Your call could make a significant difference to community safety.

Report to Crime Stoppers Anonymously by calling 1800 333 000 or visit www.crimestoppersqld.com.au

Pay rise clarification

LAST week, The Express published a story about a pay rise for Tablelands Regional Councillors. The Express stated the pay rise was 9% - this was calculated by using the figures in the 2022-23 Annual Report which stated the Mayor’s wage was $133,195 for that financial year, and the amount he will be paid from 1 July 2024 of $146,239.

TRC has advised that the Mayor’s wage is currently $141,294, after a pay rise was applied on 1 July 2023.

This makes the next pay rise, taking effect from 1 July 2024 a 3.5% increase on his current wage.

This increase will be applied to all councillors’ salaries.

goods of all kinds could be found at Neil Dickinson’s stall which featured clocks mounted on reused timber including camphor laurel, cedar and eucalyptus, with many other items such as trays, coat and hat racks, tables and cutting boards on display created from a range of timbers. Neil said he couldn’t be happier to be back at the 100 Park and “haven’t seen this many people at the markets for two years”.

Timber

Charlie Senna looked happy to be back at the 100 Park with his beautiful bromeliads.

Beautiful plants from Speewah Gardens were on offer, with Tegan Whipp and Elia Scotto getting plenty of sales for their perfect specimens. “I love being back here because the dogs can come now,” Tegan said.

Gorgeous flowers made a colourful stall for Samantha Kerlin and Sam Herrmann.

There’s a first time for everything and so it was for Jay getting his hair braided by Charity at one of the stalls at the Mareeba Markets on Saturday.

Creating some good vibes at the market were Robin Lowe (left) and Mary Reace who entertained the crowd with their special brand of Celtic music.

Pilot project to focus on town walkability

MAREEBA Shire Council will

soon be implementing a pilot project installing improvements to the walking/cycling network to increase walkability in Mareeba.

Council says that using this approach means that costs and timeframes are usually able to be reduced to deliver improvements sooner.

It also allows for modifications to be made quickly and easily if required – or replaced if necessary – without incurring the substantial costs associated with traditional infrastructure projects.

The project will introduce new walking/cycling lanes, upgrade existing footpaths and intersections, improve road crossings, provide kerb ramps for accessibility as well as fill in the “missing links” in the walking route between Amaroo Park and the intersection of Lloyd and Walsh Streets.

The works will be done as part of a Mareeba LAE (Lighter, Affordable, Effective) project and will achieve a 4.5km route connecting Mareeba’s Amaroo area and the Bicentennial Lakes/High School area.

Lighter Affordable Effective (LAE) is a concept based on implementing communityidentified, small- scale projects that test ideas and solutions.

The sites are part of council’s Walking Network Plan for Mareeba and Anzac Avenue Local Area Traffic Management Plan.

The improvements include those identified by the local community during the walking network plan development.

Council hopes that by testing cost-effective, lighter, affordable and effective ideas, the walking and cycling needs of the Mareeba community will be improved sooner, according to a spokesperson.

SITES THAT HAVE BEEN SELECTED FOR THE LAE IMPROVEMENTS ARE:

1. Constance and Atherton Street Intersection – safer pedestrian crossings.

2. Lloyd and Constance Street intersection – a new accessible kerb ramp and crossing upgrades.

3. Lloyd and Walsh Street intersection – new kerb ramps for accessibility and a pedestrian island/ safety refuge will be installed.

4. Ceola Drive – a walking/cycling lane along the western side of Ceola Drive. Barrier edging and new sections of footpath will protect pedestrians from vehicles.

5. Anzac Avenue – a walking lane and marked parking bays at the missing connection near Durston Street.

Malachi Beaman.

Jessica and Lily Day.

Lani Deacon and Tilly.

Tim Borella from band Sonic Bloom

Illari Rutherford enjoyed the paper plane making.

Our Council Our Community ADVISORY COMMITTEES

We’re looking for passionate volunteers to join 13 of our advisory committees.

Advisory committees help us understand the current and changing needs in the community, and provide options to address these needs. The committees ensure the delivery of high quality, accessible and relevant services.

Committee members need expertise, passion for or lived experience in the focus of the advisory committee they are applying for. Membership is for the term of Council (four years from March 2024).

See the terms of reference and submit your expression of interest at trc.qld.gov.au/committees by 5pm Sunday 16 June.

Gift Fund Advisory Committees

These four individual committees — Herberton Mining Centre, Malanda Falls Visitor Centre. Ravenshoe Visitor Centre and Tableland Regional Gallery — approve and provide advice on the allocation of donations and gifts to the centres and gallery.

Agriculture Advisory Committee

Provides information, advice and recommendations from a cross-section of agriculture industries and stakeholders on contemporary issues affecting agricultural, forestry and water sectors.

Cycling Advisory Committee

Develops and maintains relationships with cycling representatives and interested parties to inform a strategic approach to cycling initiatives in our region.

Herberton Mining Centre Advisory Committee

Provides advice on the operations of the Herberton Mining Centre and Great Northern mine site, and on the implementation of the Herberton Mining Centre Strategic Plan.

Natural Asset Management Advisory Committee

Maintains constructive relationships with representatives of local landholders concerning natural asset management and biodiversity, and facilitates communication between conservation community groups.

Rating Advisory Committee

Provides insight into regional activities and industries for customerfocused rating systems and processes that support quality outcomes.

Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF) Advisory Committee

Advises on the implementation of the RADF program, assesses RADF applications and provides advice and recommendations on the allocation of RADF grants.

Rocky Creek War Memorial Park Advisory Committee

Provides advice on the operation of the Rocky Creek War Memorial Park, and supports the annual Victory in the Pacific commemorative event and plaque dedications.

Tableland Regional Gallery Advisory Committee

Advises on the development and implementation of the Tableland Regional Gallery Strategy and oversees the annual exhibition program.

Youth &

Inclusion Regional Gallery Advisory Committee

Advises on access, inclusion and youth to enhance inclusion, diversity and the understanding of issues impacting our community.

Customer service centres in Atherton, Herberton, Malanda and Ravenshoe

©Jenni Kruck

©Finn Vallance

LETTERSto the editor

Have your say and email us your letter today!

Councillor deserves respect, not slur

WITH reference to letter “Mayor to be commended over rail trail” (05/06/24), after attending three Tablelands Regional Council meetings, Tim Trehearn has formed and expressed his opinion of Councillor Kevin Cardew’s professional behaviour.

As a born and bred 4th generation Tablelander, I have known Kevin for 60 years. I, along with many other passionate Tableland and Gulf community residents, have had the absolute pleasure to work alongside Kevin in the Atherton Shire Council, Carpenteria Shire Council, Herberton Shire Council and Tablelands Regional Council as workmates.

And, in the Atherton Junior Rugby League Club, Eacham Rugby League Club, Normanton Clay Target Shooting Club, Saint Joseph School P&C and Atherton Shire Council Social Club as fellow volunteers.

Kevin’s natural professional and social behaviour is at the forefront of each and every one of these successful community and workplace partnerships.

Not sure where Tim’s 50-year professional life played out, it certainly wasn’t on the Tablelands otherwise he wouldn’t have written such an obnoxious letter targeting somebody we born and bred Tablelander and Gulf folk totally respect for his unselfish community contributions.

Brian Stewart, WONDECLA

Appalling criticism needs to be called out

THE letter (05/06/24) criticising councillor Cardew’s position on the rail trail is abso-

lutely appalling.

The whole mess was created because the Mayor, who seems to have complete support from the new Deputy Mayor, made the whole incident a political game of misconceptions because the principles of local government were not adhered to in the first place.

Enough of the nonsense.

Businesses are moving on. The state land needs to be maintained and improved.

So, TRC please come up with a business plan of how you’re going to fund this asset, protecting the existing mains stormwater, fences etc.

To what extent do you expect the ratepayers to contribute considering council can’t even maintain the roads that access the industrial estate?

Why should important local funds even pay to maintain state land at all?

Just remember, at no time did any councillor or business operator want to stop access on the rail trail. It was the tree planters and a minority group of bike riders who supported by Cr Marti.

That demonstrated the unwillingness to share and promote multiple activities for long-term sustainability.

Owen Byrnes ATHERTON

Correction needed for pay rise story

THE primary purpose of this letter is to correct a mistake by The Express in last week’s issue. In the Page 7 article, ‘Councillors vote to accept 9% pay rise’ The Express incorrectly stated the percentage. The percentage increase voted on by councillors was in fact 3.5%. This percentage comes from the

Local Government Remuneration Commission which independently sets councillor pay levels for all Queensland councils. The new remuneration levels we published relate to all councils in our category in Queensland.

In the interests of openness, the TRC chose to publicly state the level of remuneration for councillors when the Commission recommends changes. Not all councils choose to do this in the form of a report to a council meeting that sets out new remuneration levels. Councils can, in fact, opt to take no action and the new remuneration levels will automatically apply to them from 1 July.

So in the case of Mareeba and Cassowary Coast, as a couple of the neighbouring councils in our category, they are subject to exactly the same remuneration levels for mayors and councillors that we are. So, two things have happened. First, TRC publicly shared the recommendation from the Commission on new pay levels and formally adopted them in a public meeting. Second, the Express then calculated that the increase on our remuneration was 9% when it was in fact 3.5%.

The TRC values transparency and stands by its approach to councillor remuneration.

Tablelands Regional Council Mayor Rod Marti

Danny Adams Painting & Decorating

MULUNGU HEALTH SERVICE

PRESENTS ARTHUR BEETSON FUTURE IMMORTAL TOUR

Saturday 15th June | Davis Park Mareeba | 1pm to 6:30pm

Our Voices, Our Stories

By uniting as a community, we can make a difference in preventing violence in our town.

Let’s continue to raise awareness and strive for positive changes

Saturday activities include

Coaching Clinic - from 1pm Opening ceremonies - from 3:30pm Exhibition Match from 4:30pm

For more information:

Phone Renee: 0403 637 198

https://www abffit com au/mareeba-june-2024

.

Danny Adams Painting & Decorating

MAREEBA RODEO FESTIVAL

 Queen Competition

 Agricultural Show

 Cowpokes: 29th June

 Horsesports: 7th July

 Ute Muster Show & Shine: 12th July

 Decorated Foyer / Window Display / Best Dressed Staff

 Garden Competition

The gift of laughter this Christmas in July

SANTA has booked an early trip to the Mareeba next month, and the community is invited to have dinner with him at Comedy Tour’s Christmas in July Christmas Wonderland event, all while raising funds for two local charities.

Kicking off from 6pm on 5-6 July at Ticham Creek Estate, patrons can explore a Christmas tree forest and meet Comedy Tour actors and Santa Claus himself.

A buffet dinner will kick off at 6.30pm, along with the main show.

A bus transfer will be picking up people from Centenary Park for $20 return at 5.30pm. Tickets are $85 a person. Bookings are essential by emailing info@comedytours.com

Get ready for the big Mareeba Metrogaine

RUNNERS, walkers and riders are being invited to the Mareeba Lions Club’s Metrogaine event, all to raise money for essential medical research this Sunday morning.

The annual scavenger hunt has raised thousands of dollars for the Australian Lions Childhood Cancer Research Foundation and this year will also raise funds for the Queensland and Northern New South Wales Lions Medical Research Foundation. Participants are given a series of clues to track down certain checkpoints across Mareeba. The team that solves all of the clues and visits each checkpoint wins the quickest. Lion member and chair of the research

ENTERTAINMENT ITALIAN SPEAKING

＠CairnsItalianFestival #CairnsItalianFestival #ItalyInTheTropics

www.cairnsitalianfestival.com.au

foundation Tom Braes said while the Metrogaine was a great way for friends and family to get out of the house and have some fun, it was also vital in helping find treatment for people suffering from life-threatening illnesses.

“Childhood cancer is obviously an extremely important topic, and we have a view

that every child deserves a chance to live,” he said. Participants can register on the day, Sunday 16 June, from 7.30am at Arnold Park for $15 per person. Teams of four can enter for $30. The race will kick off at 8.30am. For more information, email lionsmba@ gmail.com

ENTERTAINMENT

THE stories of 37 Herberton pubs have been shared in a new 76-page book called “Herberton Hotels” released by Colin Purchase.

A chance glance at a poster on the wall of the Herberton Mining Centre sparked a 13-year odyssey for the local author, who dedicated his spare time to researching every hotel that ever existed in the area.

Herberton saw its hospitality sector boom in the late 19th century and in 1883, the township itself was home to 13 hotels, serving as vibrant social hubs for miners and locals alike.

The project was a collaborative effort, with local historians Ivan and Mary Searston offering their expertise and insights.

Colin's book is available to purchase online at https:// colin-purchase.square.site or at the Herberton Mining Centre on Jacks Road.

Fun day to raise funds for animal refuge

ANIMAL lovers are being invited to a car boot sale and screening of Garfield at the Mareeba Drive-In this Sunday 16 June, all to raise money for the Mareeba Animal Refuge.

The local refuge is in dire need of funding. Its kennels are filled to overcapacity with homeless cats and dogs, many of which require urgent vet care.

As well as the car boot sale and movie

screening, local band “General Sherman” will also be performing for the crowd, as well as several activities for families to participate in.

Drive in manager Ann-Marie Donnelly said she was excited to welcome locals and visitors for an evening of fun, all while raising money for an important cause.

“We’ve hosted the refuge before and were waiting for a suitable movie to come

out (to host the event,” she said.

“The new Garfield seems a good match. We’ve expanded the idea this year to include the afternoon of family fun and the car boot sale.

“Most activities will wrap up at 5pm so we can then set up for the movie.”

Activities will kick off from 2.30pm until 5pm, before the movie starts at 5.30pm. Tickets available at the gate.

Annual car, bike meet this Saturday

General Sherman band members Toby, Hazel, Rose and Sam will be performing at the Mareeba Animal Refuge Drive-In fundraiser.

Herberton author Colin Purchase has released his book “Herberton Hotel”.

ENTERTAINMENT

Classic story comes to life

COMEDY, drama, passionate romance and tragedy will come to the fore in the latest production for Atherton Performing Arts which starts this week at the Silo Theatre complex.

“Romeo and Juliet” will run from this Friday night until 23 June and promises to be an impressive production.

Director Sarah Riber said that after the recent successes of “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” and “Twelfth Night” by the youth theatre production, the company decided to tackle a favourite of theirs, “Romeo and Juliet”.

“I've directed a lot of productions for APA but I think this one will really impress everyone with its combination of incredible fight sequences and powerful acting,” Ms Riber said.

“The actors really take it to the next level with the comedy and passionate romance in the first half and the drama and tragedy of the second half.

“Anyone familiar with the play will also love some of the new twists and interpretations that we have brought to the classic story, through our innovative staging.”

The sets were put together by regular designers Rob Mian and Antonia Chew, made to look like a ruined city, evoking a post-apocalyptic grit. It was important to the directors

that the leads be played by teenagers and the supporting cast fleshed out with more adult actors in order to add more authenticity to the portrayal.

“I have often been frustrated to see productions where Romeo and Juliet, these quintessentially teenage roles are played by older actors, so we were adamant that we wanted to cast teenagers in these roles,” Ms Riber said.

“However, we really needed older actors as the adults to create the realism that this powerful play really needs, so we made it a mainstage production.”

Co-director Geo Toner has experience as a fight coordinator and has brought both her fight choreography and acting skills to the scenes as she is cast as Mercutio.

The company has double cast the roles of both Romeo and Juliet, to be played by Meenakshi Riber and Kye Ghelfi as Romeo and Clementine Barker and Chelsea Webb as Juliet.

“We are so excited to share this production with the community - you won't want to miss this show!” Ms Riber said.

Tickets range from $15-$25 can be purchased from www.athertonperformingarts.com.au

The youth theatre group will be presenting the comedy “Epic Story” later this year.

Annual car, bike meet returns

CAR and bike enthusiasts will converge on Atherton this Saturday to see more than 300 classic cars, trucks and bikes from across the north as part of the 12th annual Car, Bike and Swap Meet event.

Rain, hail or shine, the day will commence with a Pitstop Breakfast commencing at 9am. Car owners and stall holders are expected to arrive from 6.30am.

Classic cars and bikes from across the north will be descending on Atherton, vying to be voted as a champion vehicle in a number of categories.

All members of the community who vote for their favourite vehicle will go into the draw for professional car detail valued at over $500.

A tool chest worth over $700 will also be raffled. The tool box is full of all of the things any motoring enthusiast would need, thanks to Burson Auto Parts at Atherton.

Tickets are $10 each, with all proceeds to go to local school chaplaincy and can be purchased for cash at Burson Auto Parts, 8 Silo Road, Atherton.

The winner of the toolbox and other prizes will be drawn at 12.30pm.

Local School Chaplaincy Committee chair

Don Blanford said he expected more than 350 cars and bikes to feature at the event this year.

Fletch from the TV Show, “Classic Restos”, will be on site seeking unique vehicles to film for future episodes.

Car owners will network and exchange great stories about restorations and bringing old cars and bikes back to life.

“There will be a full program and something of interest for all the family including a train for the young in age and heart,” Don said.

The Cairns Rock and Roll dancers will also be twirling and doing the “twist” on the main stage in time with the band Perfect Strangers, belting out rock and roll hits.

Prizes will be given for best dressed members of the public who come dressed in a “Rockabilly outfit”, “Period Costume” or “Anything else”.

Entry for adults is $5 per person at the gate. Students and children are free. The presentation of all prizes will be at 12.30pm. More information is available at www.facebook.com/ athertoncarbikeshow

Anyone wishing to show their car or be a stallholder at the event must arrive at the school oval between 6am-8.30am.

Craig and Sharelle Jones at last year’s show.

(from left) Amali DeLai, Laura Cavanagh, Tahli Mays, Sophia Nunn and Kai Mackin as the Montagues and Capulets during a dress rehearsal for “Romeo and Juliet”.

ON LANDthe

Skybury shines on national stage Project to protect endangered frog

FAR North Queensland papaya and coffee was thrust into the spotlight at the Hort Connections 2024 Horticulture Awards for Excellence, where Skybury Farms manager Candy MacLaughlin was named a finalist in the Syngenta Grower of the Year category.

Although Candy was not named the winner, her efforts at Skybury were recognised on a national scale and inspired many farmers who attended the Hort Connections awards.

She said she was still proud of her achievements and the contribution she, the MacLaughlin family and Skybury staff have made to the horticulture sector.

“The fact that it is a national award is the ultimate significance and the biggest achievement,” she said.

“I cannot believe that the nomination was successful, and I guess the reason why is our involvement in the industry, our commitment to agri-

A LITTLE-known critically endangered frog has jumped into the spotlight as a new project starts, aimed at improving its chances of survival.

The mountain-top nursery frog is only found near Mt Lewis, west of Port Douglas.

Terrain NRM secured funding last week through the Australian Government’s Saving Native Species (Priority Species) Grants for a project focused on protecting the rare frog’s breeding sites at the heights of Mt Lewis National Park.

The project aims to reduce threats to the survival of the mountain top nursery frog and will be delivered by Terrain NRM in partnership with Western Yalanji traditional owners, James Cook University researchers, Gulf Savannah NRM and the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service.

tourism and education, and also papaya week, which we did last year.

“I think this is wonderful to be on the list of finalists, and I hope that this encourages other farmers to put themselves out there and not be afraid to tell people what they are doing.

“I think we need to have a really loud voice in the industry, and this is what being a finalist has given us, and that is how we will use it.”

Project leader Dr Andrew Dennis said feral pigs were a major threat, and pig exclusion fencing would be installed around known frog breeding sites. Pig control measures would also begin soon, as well as species monitoring work.

“These frogs are only found in dense and small-leafed, or microphyll, rainforest at altitudes above 1100 metres - they’re considered to be one of the most range-restricted frog species in Australia,” Dr Dennis said.

“Because of this they’re extremely vulnerable to the effects of climate change - from warming to changes in rainfall and cloud distribution.

“Feral pigs are another big threat,

and pigs are increasing in numbers at high altitudes and disturbing and, in some cases, destroying the small palms and woody debris that are critical habitat for the mountain top nursery frog.

“Western Yalanji traditional owners will help to monitor exclosure fencing and help with surveying the feral pig damage on Mt Lewis, and we’ll also work with Queensland Parks and Wildlife rangers on the most effective control measures.

“About 2000 square metres of frog breeding habitat will be fenced off.

“We will also be partnering with James Cook University on research to monitor protected and unprotected habitat, looking at the breeding success of mountain top nursery frogs, the amount of woody debris and the numbers of small palm trees (Linospadix apetiolatus) that they live in and near.

“We are excited to have funding to work together and find the best ways to help this tiny, critically endangered frog. It faces the same challenges as a suite of other mountain top frogs with tiny distributions, so anything we learn from this project may help other similar species.

“We hope that these protection measures will allow maximum survival and reproduction, to give the species its best chance of being resilient to climate change, and that they will also guide measures to build resilience in other frog species in the future.”

FAST FACTS: MOUNTAINTOP NURSERY FROGS

• Listed nationally as critically endangered

• One of the most range-restricted frogs in Australia – they are only found on high mountain top ridges near Mt Lewis west of Port Douglas

• Adults are 2cm or smaller

• The males call from elevated spots in the small palms, and that’s where they also protect small clusters of eggs which develop into froglets within the egg.

Candy MacLaughlin was named a national finalist in the Hort Connections 2024 Horticulture Awards for Excellence.

PICTURED: The critically-endangered mountain-top nursery frog will be better protected at Mt Lewis near Port Douglas, thanks to a new project. IMAGE: AJ Dennis

ON LANDthe

School gears up for region’s shows

BY BRIGITTE DALEY

JUDGING by the enthusiasm of its students, Atherton State High School (ASHS) is poised to be a formidable force in the livestock and poultry sections of this year's shows.

A special feature of the school is its two clubs which allow students to develop and refine the “hands-on” skills which are required to prepare and present animals for showing.

ASHS Agriculture Subject area coordinator

Cameron Harris said the school's poultry and cattle clubs were already established prior to his arrival at the school in 2000 and had been running successfully for more than two decades.

“The Cattle Club fosters connections among students who share similar interests across various year levels, while also facilitating relationships with staff members,” he said.

“It has also provided a platform for students to enter the industry by enabling networking opportunities.”

ASHS students have excelled in representing Far North Queensland in cattle judging and handling, as well as in poultry competitions, at the prestigious Royal Queensland Show in Brisbane (EKKA).

Mr Harris said the school had a long-standing tradition of raising poultry and breeding replacements.

“In the mid 2000s we became more involved in showing at the local agricultural show,” he said.

“Students have the opportunity to learn more about the birds in terms of nutrition, breeding, handling and disease prevention, while at the same time, using their knowledge at home.

“Currently we have also started to exhibit in the Atherton Tableland Poultry Club shows with Poultry Club playing an integral part in preparing birds to exhibit.

“Students have selected and prepared birds for exhibition as well as having helped steward at the local poultry club shows over the years.

“I have found this to be a great introduction into the animal care industry for students as it allows them to build confidence and skills before they move onto the larger animals.

“Poultry from the school has been shown at Atherton, Malanda, Innisfail, Mossman and Cairns shows, as well as Atherton Tableland Poultry Club Shows.”

In addition to poultry, ASHS operates three

purebred beef studs comprising of Brahmans, Charbrays, and Murray Greys, alongside commercial cattle bred prior to 2000.

The sale of these animals helps improve resources and opportunities for students.

The school moved to both stud cattle (commencing in 2006) and commercial cattle to allow students to learn more about genetics and Estimated Breeding Values (EBV’s).

“Currently the cattle herd is dispersed over three sites with agistment land,” Mr Harris said.

“Cattle are rotated through the school site to provide educational opportunities for students to gain skills in the industry.

“Students have attended up to five shows a year, as well as having attended the annual Malanda Cattle Handling School.”

Participating in shows enables the students to develop their cattle handling and judging skills.

After evaluating the livestock they further enhance their public speaking skills by delivering their reasons over the microphone to spectators.

“Atherton State High School believes that animals in the school benefits the mental wellbeing of students and their ability to learn in the classroom,” Mr Harris said.

“Students are always calmer around stock as we practice low stress cattle handling techniques.

“They then take this attitude into the classroom when conducting theoretical lessons.”

The school has adopted technologies to further enhance the genetic merit of its livestock.

“We are currently running synchronisation programs with the cattle herd and are looking to conduct embryo transfer programs into the future,” Mr Harris added.

SUGAR REPORT

WEEK ENDING 02/06/2024

2024 Crop Estimate: 895,000 Tonnes

MILL

STATISTICS

WEEK ENDING 02/06/2024

2024 Crop Estimate: 1,400,000 Tonnes

Total For Week: 0 Tonnes

Total Cane Crushed To Date: 0 Tonnes

Percentage Crushed: 0.0%

CCS For Week: ----

CCS Average To Date:

Sophia Nunn and Melinda are busy preparing poultry for this year's shows.

Shelby Hamilton with one of the school’s show animals.

LETTERS to the editor

SAVE OUR PAVILION

I AM writing to express my concerns and those of other residents regarding the future of the Patrick English Pavilion in Malanda. It is currently closed as it has been declared unsafe.

The first Malanda Show was held in 1916. Today's showgrounds were established in 1920. In 1947 an army theatre igloo was purchased from a World War II dispersal auction.

The timber for the floor was kindly donated by Patrick English from Phoenix Sawmill. The igloo became the Show Pavilion for show activities.

The annual Malanda Show brings revenue to the town. Last year, 15,000 people attended the three-day event. The year before it was reported in The Express that “the Malanda Pastoral, Agricultural and Industrial Society team celebrated the largest and arguably one of the most successful shows in Malanda's history”.

The show will still go ahead this year but, without the pavilion, where will our locals display their wonderful produce, art and craft, photographs, flowers, home-baking etc?

The pavilion is multi-purpose. Over the years I have attended many events such as the monthly market stalls, expos, cultural events, wedding receptions, meetings, primary school “Bilby

Pavilion must not become a distant memory

THE Malanda Show Pavilion, or “The Igloo” as she is so fondly called by so many locals has been a part of Malanda for as long as I can remember and the memories she holds, both old and new, are beautiful and long lasting.

If only those walls could talk I am sure she would have some stories to tell.. Here are a few of my fondest memories of the Pavilion….. She was a massive part of my childhood and school days here in Malanda in the 70s and 80s from the Fancy Dress Balls (that we would practice for for hours on end doing all the old time waltz’s) and us schoolchildren would all gather excitedly in the hall to parade around on the ballroom floor in all of our amazing costumes. highlight of the Fancy Dress Balls for myself was actually winning a massive bar of chocolate for my fancy dress costume. I had come as an Indian and the main part of my costume was a hessian sack that the horse feed used to come in.

We used to perform plays and have all of our primary school events at the pavilion, even entering our creations in the local show which we had made a school with such great care and detail. There was some fierce competition from what I can remember. Growing up and entering high school things didn’t change. We used that hall for everything from school discos to personality

Bops”, Malanda Community Christmas Carols and the sell-out Show Ball.

Judy Quilliam, from Malanda Rural Supplies, describes the timber floor as the best dance floor in the world. The quality of the floor is well-suited to ballroom dancing.

The Malanda Chamber of Commerce may well have plans to replace the igloo but would a modern structure fit in with our non-pretentious, laid-back town?

I have heard that the cost of repairs would be well under half the cost to replace the building. If the Rocky Creek Igloo can be restored (2017-18), surely this must also be possible for the Patrick English Pavilion?

The money saved from restoration (rather than rebuilding) could perhaps be used to support the struggling farmers.

I believe that the Atherton Tablelands has been declared a disaster area due to excessive rainfall?

Tablelands Regional Council needs to consider the opinions of all Malanda residents, not just those who make up the Chamber of Commerce.

Malanda has been described as “a well-serviced brilliant town full of beautiful, friendly people who fully support community events”. A

quests to end of year breakups and graduations.

Even when we all became adults, the pavilion still played a massive part in our lives through Wine and Cheese Balls, The Malanda Show, weddings, parties, recently the revamped Show Balls, markets once a month, and also a meeting place for us to hold gatherings which affected our town.

Having children of my own and then grandchildren and going to watch them perform in the annual Billy’s Bop just recently made me so proud to see she (the Pavilion) was standing brought a tear to my eye.

If we lose this iconic pavilion, Malanda will have lost a part of its soul and a huge chunk of my heart will go with her.

I am sure I can speak for quite a few locals who will feel the same as I.

Driving into town and seeing her standing strong and proud was always a highlight for me and I do hope she will be standing proud again soon.

To see her shored up with barricades is so heartbreaking.

Come on Tablelands Regional Council, do the right thing and save our historic Patrick English Pavilion for generations to come and enjoy and make awesome memories just like all of us who have come before!

Please don’t let her become just a distant memory.

A website has now been set up to help save the pavilion. It's at www.savethemalandapavilion. com

Terri Wilson MALANDA

Don’t replace historical icon with modern structure

THE cat is out of the bag. Engineering reports reveal the Patrick English Pavilion, aka “The Malanda Igloo” is facing demolition because TRC has failed to maintain the building, and carry out the necessary repairs dating back to at least 2018. Let that sink in.

This should raise major concern for residents in all towns across the region overseen by Table-

sense of community contributes to greater happiness and well-being. The community cannot thrive without its meeting places.

Here in Malanda, we celebrate our history in the township. We see it depicted in the mosaics on the buildings and in addition on the plaques of the new bins in English Street.

However, we also like to see and appreciate our history for real.

lands Regional Council. If it is deemed acceptable to neglect a hugely historically significant building, to the point it is a safety threat and at imminent risk of collapse – where does it end?

Across the region there are a small number of very special halls that hold immense value to the community. Iconic landmarks that are part of the history, culture and social connection to the area.

Buildings that are an integral part of the community, that are used and enjoyed whilst providing a direct link to the history of the area.

That is the case with the Patrick English Pavilion, (or more correctly WAS the case), given it is now boarded up and fenced off as a danger to the public.

I’d ask communities in other townships to consider how they’d feel if this was their iconic building?

How did this happen? It is no secret that TRC was discussing demolishing the pavilion and building a modern “multipurpose” replacement as early as 2020. A building quoted as costing $5.6 million at the exact same time the repair of the pavilion was quoted as being $2 million.

Clearly the reason wasn’t fiscal! The engineering report dated May 2024 quotes a figure of $2.33 million.

In an effort to save the building, a heritage application was filed by community members in 2021. The application was opposed by TRC with the council making a submission stating “Council is investigating the construction of a new multipurpose facility to replace the pavilion at its current location”.

The application was unsuccessful due to key features of the original building, as a WWII theatre being no longer present - ticket booths etc.

Cr Bilney – representative for Malanda – has long stated his support for the replacement facility on this site, championed by the Malanda Chamber of Commerce, and special interest groups. A move strongly opposed by large sections of the wider community who have not been consulted and are clearly not being listened to.

Is it acceptable for a historically, culturally and socially significant building to be neglected to the point an engineer states: “The structure is not safe for occupation and entry should immediately be

respect the wishes of

wider community by carrying out the necessary restoration works.

excluded”? (May 2024 Engineering report).

Was this a deliberate strategy so that the building could be demolished, making way for the council to justify a new building DESPITE the wishes of the wider community? What next?

The level of anger in the community is pulpable.

I’ll end by posing this question: Is it conscionable for TRC to be allowed to bulldoze the pavilion, when a deliberate decision not to maintain and repair the building was taken?

Seeking to justify the wants of a few for a modern building at this location, over preserving the history and cultural value of this icon for the many? If we allow this to happen, it will set a precedent and will be the death knell for the preservation of historically significant community buildings across the Tablelands.

Matt Lachlan Email: save-the-malanda-igloo@ hotmail.com

MPs fail to prove action on Kuranda range / bridge

WHERE is the proof? Recently I wrote about our three Far Northern politicians asking them where they are and where are the letters, showing they are doing all they can to have the Kuranda Range and Barron River bridge fixed.

Nothing has happened.

Last week’s Express shows MP Craig Crawford spruiking DTMR spin again about the Barron River bridge.

What I am asking MP’s Crawford, Lui and Healy, whose electorates are directly impacted by the faulty Kuranda, Gillies, Palmerston and Rex range roads, to publicly produce their letters to government, and their Hansard records, showing exactly what they have done politically, for and on behalf of the people they conjointly represent. If this situation, where four ranges and the Cook Highway were in the SE corner, you can bet the politicians would be up in arms and DTMR held far more accountable.

Graham Sweeper MAREEBA

The pavilion is an iconic, historical venue which the Malanda community does not wish to lose. I hereby implore the Tablelands Regional Council to

the

Jocelyn Goodwin MALANDA

The Malanda Show Pavilion prior to floor and ceiling installation – Patrick English is pictured second from left.

PROPERTY

Embrace your dream lifestyle at The Rise Country Estate

IN the heart of Mareeba, an unparalleled opportunity awaits those yearning for a lifestyle marked by elegance, comfort, and serenity.

The Rise Country Estate, in collaboration with Tropic Coast Homes, proudly presents an irresistible house and land package designed to captivate those seeking a lifestyle change.

A Masterpiece of Design and Comfort Step into a world of sophistication with Tropic Coast Homes Norman 223.

This expansive 4-bedroom home is crafted to make moving in effortless and living luxurious.

Every detail is thoughtfully considered—from the generously sized kitchen, complete with a walk-in pantry, to the double lock-up garage ensuring ample space for vehicles.

The large patio beckons for outdoor entertaining, while the master bedroom, with its private ensuite, offers a personal sanctuary away from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Priced at $395,000, this home is not just a dwelling but a comprehensive living experience, equipped with a range of inclusions that cater to modern family life.

A full list of these inclusions is available upon request.

The Norman 223 fits perfectly on Lot 1 Catherine-Atherton Drive, within The Rise Country Estate.

This spacious 3650 sqm lot, priced at an exceptional $198,000, promises ample space for both tranquillity and recreation. Together, the home and lot create an idyllic haven for families looking at a lifestyle change.

*Please note, house and land packages are sold separately.

Pop into the Amaroo Land Centre for any information or call Ryley on 0409 321 000 if you would like to arrange an inspection, at a time that best suits you. Follow us on our socials or check out our website www.amarooestate. com.au for updates regarding our upcoming stages.

Suzey Whitby 0438 090 306

Rural lifestyle living at its best

ventures.

from the charming little township of Atherton and only 1.6km from the Tolga state primary school, this property offers additional opportunities for a buyer with a vision.

Set on 21.67ha and featuring some of North Queensland's most fertile volcanic soils with 650 Hass avocado trees irrigated from a bore via a 6 inch main line. The property currently has planted peanut crops and hay but can be utilized for multiple crops and or lifestyle.

The property has many potential uses from having a stable for your family horses to starting your own farming

Indulge in comfort with this modernized four bedroom, one bathroom home. The house has beautiful finishes as well as large windows in every room to let natural light glimmer throughout the house.

The kitchen includes a large amount of bench and cupboard space for you to cook with the whole family, as well as ample dining space and two roomy living areas.

The outside of the prop-

erty features a large patio for entertaining as well as two lockable garages and two open carports.

The property also includes a 22 x 20 meter machinery shed for all of your farming equipment along with a 3.6 x 12 workshop for your maintenance needs.

Contact agent Morgan Brennan at Ray White Atherton today on 0407 730 450 for further information. www.raywhiteruralatherton.com.au/L28101190

25 Sims Road, TOLGA Price Upon Application Morgan Brennan Ray White Atherton 0407 730 450or 40917 111

Picturesque at Peeramon

WELCOME to your dream home in the charming countryside of Peeramon. This well-built 2-storey residence offers the perfect blend of tranquillity and convenience, nestled amidst picturesque surroundings with no immediate rear neighbours and manicured lawns and gardens.

built-in robes offer ample accommodation, complemented by an updated bathroom and a sunroom, perfect for soaking in the serene views.

Step inside and be greeted by spacious living across two levels. The lower level boasts a versatile layout, featuring a bedroom, bathroom, laundry, storage room, and a cozy living area, complete with a single garage featuring a convenient remote door for effortless access.

Ascend the internal or external staircases to the upper level, where you'll discover the heart of the home. A stunning timber kitchen awaits, overlooking a generous living and dining area, ideal for entertaining guests or relaxing with family. Four well appointed bedrooms with

Outside, indulge in the ultimate rural lifestyle with impressive amenities. A threebay powered shed, with an extra workshop bay, provides ample space for hobbies or storage, while an additional lockable powered shed offers further versatility. With a spring as a water supply, supplemented by rainwater and four water tanks, selfsufficiency is at your fingertips.

Spread across 2.4 acres (9,986m2), this property offers ample space for outdoor enjoyment and potential ex-

Price: Agent:

pansion. Yet, despite its idyllic rural setting, the convenience of Malanda (6.5kms) and Yungaburra (10kms) is just a short drive away, ensuring all essential amenities are within easy reach. Don't miss this rare opportunity to secure your slice of countryside paradise. Embrace the tranquility of Peeramon living while enjoying the modern comforts of this exceptional family home.

Contact Exclusive Marketing Agent Kaydee Chatfield 0417 468 941 at Main St Real Estate today to arrange your private viewing and start living the rural dream.

Prime real estate in Atherton CBD

separate bath, shower, and toilet

32 Mabel

is within walking distance to all amenities, including the Post Office and supermarkets. This property is perfect for both accommodation and commercial opportunities.

Key Features:

• 1012m² level site zoned "centre"

• High-set 4-bedroom Queenslander

• Office building

• 6 off-street parking bays

High-Set Queenslander:

• Constructed from local timbers with steel and timber stumps, featuring high ceilings

• Spacious layout with 4 bedrooms plus a sunroom; one bedroom is large enough to convert into a 5th bedroom

• Main bedroom includes a walk-in robe and access to a two-way bathroom with

• Central lounge with timber-panelled walls and silky oak casement windows

• Kitchen features a walkin pantry

• Downstairs is just under legal height but includes an outdoor living area, three separate offices, a laundry, bathroom/shower, and small storeroom

• There is also a separate disabled toilet which serves the downstairs area and large rear office block

Office Block:

• Approximately 118m² under roof, constructed with masonry block, open-plan office space with a small office at the rear

• Front awning, ideal for a waiting area or second outdoor living space, connects to the double carport

• Off-street parking available, including a two-car car-

port at the front and six openair parking spaces

This property is ready to go. With rental properties in high demand, this is an ideal investment property-rent

Address:

now, develop later.

For more details or to arrange a viewing, please contact Michelle Raso at 0428 116 136.

32 Mabel Street, ATHERTON

$525,000 Michelle Raso Elders Real Estate Tablelands 0428 116 136

Rural views, 10 acres, family home

888 Beatrice Way is located on the scenic Old Palmerston Highway, 12 mins from Millaa Millaa, 30 mins from Malanda and less than an hours drive from Innisfail; crossing the Beatrice River & Middlebrook Creek along the way and just down the road from the photographic Pepina Falls.

Just under 10 acres with expansive rural views creates a feeling of privacy and peacefulness. Country living at its finest with a large brick veneer family home which is elevated to take in those amazing views and mountain ranges Millaa Millaa is so well known for.

Everything about the family home is large and inviting. From the spacious timber country kitchen to the cozy open plan living area that has a two way fire place, then there's the large master bedroom with walk in wardrobe and ensuite, including the games room and let's not

forget about the in-ground swimming pool.

Contact exclusive agent Shellie Nightingale at Nightingale Real Estate Tablelands on 0429 966 038.

EVERY now and then, a truly special opportunity comes to the market…. like this one!

This stunning 2.5 acre property is nestled amongst the rainforest and fronting a secluded part of the Johnstone River perfect for swimming, canoeing or to just sit by the river and enjoy the tranquillity.

This is the perfect property for a large family seeking multiple homes as there are three self-contained dwellings on the property or can be run as a BNB.

This exceptional property has unlimited potential and is being sold on a WIWO basis. That includes all furnishings, linen, whitegoods, outdoor furniture, and plenty more.

All the hard work has been done, all 3 homes have recently been fully refurbished and fitted with quality appliances and tasteful decor.

Situated on the beautiful Atherton Tablelands, 4 kms from Malanda Town Centre, 9 kms from Lake Eacham – A wonderful place to stay for a week or a lifetime!

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

Opportunity knocks for the Investor

WHETHER you are expanding your investment portfolio or taking your first steps into property investment, here is an unmissable opportunity for you to secure a full duplex without any body corporate fees.

This substantial duplex constructed externally and internally of unbreakable masonry block occupies a generous 1,100m² parcel of land. Each unit has two bedrooms all with built in wardrobes. There are generous sized open plan living areas with well-appointed kitchens and

lock-up garages for peace of mind.

Each unit has its own fenced back yard with a lawn locker.

This duplex would make a great addition to any portfolio, or you have the option to live in one and receive an income from the other unit.

Address: Price: Agent:

Contact:

Near new and very stylish

Rental income is $700 per week.

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

$529,000

Trisha Jackson Professionals Atherton 0419 183 145

If you have been looking for a near new home that has that little bit extra, then welcome to the modern and stylish 18 Summer Street, Mareeba!

Situated in the very quiet Kenneally Estate, this unique home has been customised for modern day living, and styled to match! From the moment you step inside, the wow-factor is undeniable.

Easily the jewel in the crown is the massive kitchen. With an island bench that spans almost 5 metres, a top of the range 90cm gas cooktop and matching Electrolux appliances, ample cupboard space and heaps of drawers, and even a butler's pantry complete with power and a sink, there is no other kitchen like this around!

There is a large open plan living area close by and the large glass doors open out onto the private rear patio which measures approximately 7m x 4m, making all of your outdoor get togethers a hit.

The home boasts three large bedrooms and an office/study which has a built-in corner desk. The bedrooms all have built-in wardrobes and all rooms feature splitsystem air-conditioning as well as tiled floors. The master bedroom has a large walk-through wardrobe with heaps of storage space and a deluxe en-suite with dou-

ble shower.

With an ultra-stylish main bathroom to match the rest of the home, you will be the envy of all of your friends, and it doesn't stop there, the laundry is all custom designed, with heaps of storage as well.

There is an oversized double garage in case you have two large vehicles, and again there is no shortage of storage in this house, with another built-in cupboard in the garage.

Out the front the property

is tastefully landscaped, and there is underground irrigation to the lawn and gardens. There is rear access via one side of the home, and the back yard is fully fenced, with an additional dividing fence to keep the pets out the back.

With a near new home that has such style, on a large allotment in a quality estate, you know this one won't last long.

Address: Price: Agent:

Call Exclusive agent Remo Esposito on 0401 969 473 or email remo@crmareeba.com to book your private inspection today.

$600,000

EXCLUSIVE to Remo Esposito Central Realty 0401 969 473 or 4092 2232

Contact: 18 Summer Street, MAREEBA

PROPERTY

Stylish living… exclusive location

WITH so many impressive features on offer this stylish 3 bedroom home presents as new and is tailor made for those looking for a modern design that’s sophisticated and ready to move into.

Quality built by Giulio Avolio with a versatile layout and superb positioning in Amaroo Park Estate on the Cairns side of Mareeba it offers the following quality attributes:

• Very well maintained & immaculately presented

• Fully tiled and split-system air-conditioned throughout + 2.7m high ceilings

• 3 bedrooms with mirrored built-in robes – Master with ensuite & WIR

• Crisp neutral colour scheme throughout

• Bathroom & ensuite fully tiled to the ceiling

• Built-in storage cupboards, tinted windows, window furnishings & security screens throughout + Crimsafe screens on the front door & lounge front windows

• Laundry with built-in cabinetry & sliding door access out to the clothesline

• Generous fully tiled garage with storage cupboard

• Sizeable tiled rear patio off the living area with garage access – massive area for entertaining

• Exposed aggregate driveway & pathways

• Fresh, light filled kitchen with corner pantry, overhead cupboards to the ceiling, stone bench tops, fridge plumbing in place & stainless steel appliances including a dishwasher

• 10.5kw solar power system

• 13m x 7m powered colorbond shed with 2 roller door access + 1 high clearance open bay

• 918m2 landscaped allotment with colorbond privacy fencing, side access & popup irrigation to the righthand side & front gardens

In such a sought after area this attractive property won’t last long. Inspection is a must.

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

RAINE & Horne Atherton is very pleased to offer this wonderful opportunity to someone who is ready to strap on a tool belt and let their creative energy flow.

This solid steel framed home is looking for a new owner who is willing to take on the task of updating and creating a comfortable home that reflects your style and taste.

The internal space currently includes 2 bedrooms and an office which could be converted into a 3rd bedroom. The 1980's style kitchen and bathroom are very useable in their current condition, however renovate and reap the rewards.

The home has expansive outdoor living space and a large steel shed sits in the spacious backyard.

FEATURES INCLUDE:

and lounge

TAKE A BREAK EXPRESSO

ACROSS

1. A long sewing needle with a large eye (7,6)

8. A hairstyle in which naturally tightly curled hair stands out all around the head (4)

9. Relating to language or linguistics (10)

10. A tool with a long curved blade at the end of a long pole used for cutting crops such as grass or corn (6)

11. Women’s underwear and nightclothes (8)

12. Causing hatred or disgust; repulsive (9)

14. An island or peninsula, especially a small one (4)

15. A group of countries with common interests who have formed an alliance (4)

16. Difficult to interpret or understand; mysterious (9)

20. A metrical foot consisting of two short or

SUDOKU

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

unstressed syllables followed by one long or stressed syllable (8)

21. Relating to or affecting apes or monkeys(6)

23. A rare, highly contagious bacterial disease causing inflammation of the mucous membranes, which hinders breathing and swallowing (10)

24. Just or appropriate in the circumstances (4)

25. A modernist art movement, originating around the beginning of the 20th century (13)

DOWN

1. Existing or holding a specified position in fact but not necessarily by legal right (2,5)

2. To settle or congregate for rest or sleep (5)

3. A disease or period of sickness affecting the body or mind (7)

4. One of the bodyguards of the British monarch on ceremonial occasions (9-2-4)

5. Relating to or affecting horses (6)

6. Indigestion (9)

7. A large, imposing building (7)

13. A ship designed or used for transporting troops (9)

15. A large open-air fire used for burning rubbish or as part of a celebration (7)

17. The political police of Nazi Germany (7)

18. A movement in early-20th-Century Anglo-American poetry that favoured precision of imagery and clear, sharp language (7)

19. Informal word for a person who is expert in or enthusiastic about technology (6)

22. A Muslim legal expert who is empowered to give rulings on religious matters (5)

WEEKLY HOROSCOPES

You are best to look into investments that will grow in value over an extended period of time. Try to curb your bad habits, and compromise if your partner gives you an ultimatum. Turn your present relationship around or start a new one. Your lucky day is Wednesday.

Resist secret affairs that could be detrimental to your reputation. Refrain from arguing with your mate. You should visit a friend or relative who hasn’t been feeling up to par. Your lack of attention may have been a factor. Your lucky day this week will be Friday.

Look into ways of making extra cash. Look for guidance if it will help unite the family. Minor health problems will flare up if you don’t take care of yourself. Set the ball in motion and be relentless until you complete the project. Your lucky day will be Saturday.

Communications with loved ones may be strained. Time to deal with institutional environments, government agencies, and matters of a private nature this week. You will be accident prone if you aren’t careful this week. Your lucky day this week will be Monday.

Cutbacks at work will be a cause for worry. You can make professional decisions this week that will affect your position Get involved in activities that will be fun for the whole family. One-sided relationships are likely. Your lucky day this week is Monday.

Don’t count on correspondence to clear up major problems. You may want to get involved in some kind of creative group. Valuable information can be yours if you listen to those with experience. Your lucky day this week will be Friday.

Expect to have more people on your domestic scene. Go out with friends who are positive and supportive. You will be able to pick up on future trends if you keep your eyes peeled for unique ideas. Your lucky day this week will be Saturday.

You may be uncertain about some of your coworkers and your boss. Call a good friend. Deception is probable if you don’t use discrimination. Your mate may not have been honest with you. Your lucky day this week will be Saturday.

You may have difficulties while travelling or problems dealing with close friends. You can make professional changes and direct your energy into making all the right moves. Go after your goals. Your lucky day this week will be Friday.

Romance will unfold through business trips. Put your energy into learning new skills or picking up valuable information. You could meet an interesting individual you’ll want to get to know better. Your lucky day will be Wednesday.

Do your job and then spend some time with family; you’ll be glad you did. Uncertainties are still prevailing. You will feel tired and rundown if you have allowed yourself to get into a financial mess. You need to spend time with friends and family. Your lucky day is Saturday.

Changes will not be easy for the youngsters involved. You will be popular with acquaintances; however, loved ones could feel left out and insecure. It’s a favourable time for real estate, and moneymaking opportunities to be successful. Your lucky day is Wednesday.

WALKER, Peter John

FUNERAL NOTICE

O’CONNOR, Peta Mary

Late of Malanda. Passed away peacefully with Peter by her side on the 7th of June, 2024. Aged 68 years.

Cherished Wife of Peter Joseph O’Conner. Loving Mother of John, Shannon and Sam. Grandmother of Darcy, Brody, Chase, Cody and Claire.

Also known as Burg, Mr. Walker. Late of 88 Russell Road West, Lake Eacham QLD 4884. Passed away suddenly at the Atherton Hospital on Thursday 30th May, 2024. Aged 67 years. Much loved Partner of Vilma and loving Father of Steve, Son-in-Law of Mary, Brother of Ros. Brotherin-Law, Uncle, Great Uncle, Brother-in-Arms and Friend will be sadly missed.

Family and Friends of Peta are respectfully invited to attend her funeral service which is appointed to move from Mountain View Chapel, Guilfoyle’s Tablelands Crematorium, 3 Nasser Road, Atherton on Wednesday 19th June, 2024 commencing at 10:30am, for interment in the Atherton Cemetery.

Guilfoyle Funeral Services

Chapels, Crematorium & Memorial Gardens

Atherton: 4091 2147 Mareeba: 4092 1013

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

TSCHUMY, William Edward “Bill”

Late of Atherton. Passed away peacefully at his home with his family by his side on the 29th of May, 2024. Aged 91 years. Beloved Husband of Dell. Loved Dad of Malcolm, Peter and David. Cherished Grandfather to his 6 grandchildren, 12 great grandchildren and his great great granddaughter.

Family and friends of Bill are respectfully invited to attend his funeral service which is to be held at the Mountain View Chapel, Guilfoyle’s Tablelands Crematorium, 3 Nasser Road, Atherton on Thursday 13th June, 2024 commencing at 2pm.

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

RANKINE, Roy McNay

Late of Atherton. Passed away peacefully at Carinya on the 31st of May, 2024. Aged 98 years. Beloved Husband of 67 years to Muriel (Dec.). Loving and reliable Dad of George, Dawn, Alex and Wayne. Cherished Grandad of Robert, Travis, Sean, Matthew, Monique, Shaye, Janine, Tayhan and Kayla.

Family and friends of Roy are respectfully invited to attend his funeral service which is appointed to move from the Mountain View Chapel, Guilfoyle’s Tablelands Crematorium, 3 Nasser Road, Atherton on Monday 17th June, 2024 after a service commencing at 10:30am, for interment in the Atherton Cemetery.

Guilfoyle Funeral Services

Chapels, Crematorium & Memorial Gardens

Local Family Owned & “Entrusted for over 70 years” www.guilfoylefunerals.com.au

William John Hornung

13/07/1925 ~ 11/06/2014

Pearl Edith Hornung

12/02/1933 ~ 15/06/2016

In my heart you will always remain. Love Tina.

Gardener Tree Lopper Pruning, slashing, mowing, rubbish removal. Competitive rates, fully insured. John 0414 280 514

WE, THE FAMILY OF THE LATE Gaetano Vecchio

Would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to those who offered their overwhelming support, thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. We deeply appreciate all the messages, cards, phone calls and floral tributes. Also thank you to Deacon Ralph. Deeply appreciated from all the family.

FOR SALE

COX Rejuvenated Ride On Mowers FROM $1500 WANTED TO BUY COX Ride On Mowers Needing Repairs 7 - 7 CASH! CALL AL 0428 194 505

WANT to wish someone in your life Happy Birthday or Anniversary? Call Beth at your friendly, locally owned Newspaper on 4092 3464. Classie’s deadline is 4pm every Friday.

Atherton: 4091 2147 Mareeba: 4092 1013

Local Family Owned & “Entrusted for over 70 years” www.guilfoylefunerals.com.au

CLASSIFIEDS

POSITION VACANT

PROJECT SUPPORT OFFICER

Part Time (45 hours per fortnight)

Fixed Term for 24 months

Location: Mareeba

As Project Support Officer you will play an essential role in providing administrative and financial assistance to project managers and officers.

For more information and to apply, go to: gulfsavannahnrm.org/ employment

Applications close: 9am, Monday 10 June, 2024.

We also accept Expressions of Interest for future positions via our website.

TAGALAKA RANGER COORDINATOR

Full Time (75 hours per fortnight)

Fixed Term to 30 June, 2025

Location: Croydon (preferred), Normanton, Georgetown or Mareeba

Gulf Savannah NRM is seeking a suitably experienced person to manage and implement the Indigenous Land and Sea Ranger Program for the Tagalaka Aboriginal Corporation.

TAGALAKA SENIOR RANGER

TAGALAKA RANGER X2

Full Time (75 hours per fortnight)

Fixed Term to 30 June, 2025

Location: Croydon

The positions of Senior Ranger and Ranger are Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander identified roles. Tagalaka people are strongly encouraged to apply.

For more information and to apply, go to: gulfsavannahnrm.org/ employment

Applications close: 9am, Monday 10 June, 2024.

Strathmore Station

Georgetown

Full Time Chef Position

Experience required in the following areas but not limited to:

• Managing Food provisions / ordering

• Creating menus

• Cooking 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

CREATIVE MARKETING MAVERICK

We’re on the lookout for a vibrant and imaginative Marketing Maverick to join our growing team, based in Atherton.

WE NEED THESE SKILLS

• Digital marketing leadership

• Performance Tracking

• Content Creation

• Email Marketing & Newsletters

• LinkedIn Community management

Call Christine on 0427 776 348 or email talent@mangoesmapping.com.au Full details at: https://bit.ly/3wREXJs

CASUAL CLEANER POSITION

Tinaroo Environmental Education Centre (EDUCATION QLD)

We are seeking an energetic, honest and reliable person to join our cleaning team.

As the Cleaner you will:

• Contribute to the efficient and effective operation and environment of the site by providing a high level of cleaning support.

• Ensure that the duties prescribed for the position are completed to an acceptable standard as determined by their supervisor, in accordance with the approved school cleaning program.

The successful applicants will be required to complete:

• A Working with Children Check.

• Criminal History Check.

• Confirmation of employment is conditional on the completion the 2 checks. For further information or to obtain a Role Description, please email the Business Manager: bsm@tinarooeec.eq.edu.au Or Phone 4095 9555 Applications should provide brief resume including 2 referees detailing work history and any relevant qualifications. Applications to be submitted either by email to: bsm@tinarooeec.eq.edu.au

Or posted to: Business Manager, Tinaroo Environmental Education Centre PO Box 65, Kairi QLD. 4872 And marked confidential.

BUS DRIVERS REQUIRED

Part Time and Casual

• Cairns to Karumba

• Cairns to Cooktown

• Charter Services

• Atherton to Cairns

Trans North Bus & Coach have positions available for our Long Distance Services

- Cairns to Karumba, Cairns to Cooktown Charter Service and Atherton to Cairns.

 HR Licence

 Immediate Start For Right Person

 Current QLD Bus Drivers Authority

 Rotating Roster Including Weekend Work

 Excellent Customer Service Skills Required

 Freight Handling Required

P: 3036 2070

E: employment@transnorthbus.com.au

Tableland Community Housing EXPRESSION OF INTEREST (EOI)

Tableland Community Housing Association invites Expression of Interest (EOI) from Design and Construct Contractors, interested in a competitive D & C tender for the delivery of a multi-million-dollar development project in Atherton, comprising of subdivision infrastructure works and delivery of (10) new dwellings in accordance with the Liveable Housing Design Guidelines. Tenderers must hold a minimum PQC rating Level 2.

Please forward details of your interest to register to Davison Development Solutions P/L c/o the Project Manager: darren@ddsolutions.com.au

the Department of Resources office Verde Tower, Level 9, 445 Flinders Street, Townsville Qld 4810 or may be obtained by contacting the local mines assessment hub on (07) 4447 9230 or MineralHub@resources.qld.gov.au.

Environmental Authority Documents

The application documents for the proposal consist of the following: A-EA-NEW-100613294 – Variation application for a new environmental authority for a resource activity.

Copies of, or extracts from, the application documents may be inspected at the Department of Environment and Science Level 3, 5B Sheridan Street, Cairns QLD 4870 or may be obtained by contacting Permit and Licence Management by phone on 1300 130 372 or by email on palm@des.qld.gov.au Copies of the standard conditions and eligibility criteria for a resource activity can be obtained by accessing the Department of Environment and Science website www.des.qld.gov.au or by contacting Permit and Licence Management by phone on 1300 130 372 (select option 4) or by email on palm@ des.qld.gov.au.

Making A Properly Made Objection / Submission

It is advised that any person/entity may make an objection to the grant of the mining lease, and/or a submission about the application for the environmental authority. The objection/submission period, during which objections/submissions can be given, concludes on 11 July 2024 at 4.30pm (AEST).

A properly made objection and/or submission must be received on or before 4.30pm (AEST) on the last day of the objection/submission period. It must be lodged with the chief executive in writing in the approved form, addressed to the relevant Assessment Hub: Mineral Assessment Hub Level 9, 445 Flinders Street, Townsville QLD 4810 PO Box 1752, Townsville QLD 4810 Email: MineralHub@resources.qld.gov.au

A copy of the objection must also be served upon the applicant/s on or before the last

SPORT

NQ Games takes over Mareeba gymnasium

MORE than 360 gymnasts from across the north shined on the floor, the bars and the vaults for the NQ Games, which was hosted for the first time in Mareeba.

Attracting competitors and spectators from near and far, Mareeba Gymnastics hosted seven clubs from Townsville to Cairns for the three-day event at the Arthur Randolf Gymnasium.

The local team also ranked third overall in the competition, while Atherton’s team Momentum came in fifth, and Malanda’s Gymnastics Club came seventh.

Mareeba Gymnastics’ Beth Flemming said having such a large number of participants in the gymnasium was something the club was incredibly proud of and hoped to do again soon.

“The highlights were having 360 competitors from seven different clubs coming to Mareeba over the three days and seeing all the support that came with them,” she said.

“The gymnasts really enjoyed themselves and supported each other throughout the competition.”

Momentum Gymnastics coach and general

Speedway season opener success

A record-breaking crowd flocked to Mareeba Speedway recently for a “perfect” season opener for the 2024 season.

With all the speedway meeting rainouts on the East Coast this year, Mareeba had clear blue skies for their 2024 season opener on Saturday, 1 June, and featured five racing divisions: Junior Sedans, Formula 500s, Wingless Sprints, Super Streets, and Pro-Sprintcars.

In the Junior Sedans, 10-year-old Jai Cotterell from Townsville took first place, followed by Cairns' Tyler Allen and Jaydyn Hawkins.

The Wingless Sprints saw mother-daughter duo Toni Chapman and Samantha Jones showcase close racing.

The Formula 500s had Townsville’s Mitch Whitman and Anthony Gunnel finishing first and second, with Cameron Lowe in third.

The Super Street Sedans delivered thrilling

races, with Townsville’s Brett Hardy winning, local Owen Jonsson in second, and Townsville’s Dean Daglish in fourth.

Pro-Sprintcars featured current Queensland Champion Brodie Davis, who dominated the event. Ash Ewing took second, and John Magro finished third.

Club president Scott Davis praised the turnout and said he was excited for their next meet on 29 June.

“It was a huge crowd for our 2024 season opener, and I think we have hit on a winner by making sure we are catering for all the family,” he said.

“We will continue the theme nights with our next race meeting ... being a ‘Tradies Kids Night’.

“To finally get a meeting under clear blue skies was a huge blessing for race fans.”

ALL RESULTS

Level 3 Under 1st Beam- Alannah Flynn (Team Momentum Atherton)

3rd Beam - Emily Price (Mareeba) 1st Floor – Scarlett Landsberg (Team Momentum Atherton)

Level 3 Open

2nd Vault - Ciarra Lacutone (Mareeba) 3rd Vault – Elexis Tokarahi (Mareeba)

Level 4 Under 1st Vault, Bars and Floor , Beam 3rd Overall 1st

manager Cherie Mills said she was proud of her gymnasts and the effort they put in throughout each event.

“We were very impressed with the whole event, and the girls’ hard work and dedication really paid off,” she said.

“We preach team and supporting each other and encouraging each other no matter what and that really showed.

“The event was a huge credit to Mareeba Gymnastics and Kelly Tulloch (head coach) – they and their volunteers put on a magnificent event.”

Lillia Joslin (Mareeba)

(Mareeba)

bars, vault, beam and floor, 3rd overall –Angelina Tulloch (Mareeba) Men’s Artistic Gymnastics Results Level 3 1st floor, 2nd high bar, 3rd rings and parallel bars, 1st overall – Oliver Nastasi (Mareeba) 1st pommel, 2nd parallel bars, 3rd floor and vault, 3rd overall – Flynn Posma (Mareeba) 1st vault, 3rd pommel – Kipp Fealy (Mareeba) 2nd vault – Darius Abbott (Mareeba)

Level 4

1st floor and parallel bars, 2nd high bar, 3rd pommel and rings, 2nd overall – Bentley Posma (Mareeba) 1st vault – Drummond Eugster-Ward (Mareeba)

Level 5

1st floor, pommel, high bar and vault, 2nd rings and parallel bars, 1st overall – Finnlay Ford (Mareeba)

1st parallel bars and rings, 2nd floor and high bar, 3rd pommel and vault, 2nd overall – Connor Bertuna (Mareeba) 1st pommel, 2nd vault, 3rd floor, rings, parallel bars and high bar, 2rd overall – Yannick Hensen (Mareeba)

Level 7

1st floor, pommel, rings ,vault, parallel bars and high bar, 1st overall – Andrew Hawthorn (Mareeba)

Level 8 1st floor, pommel, rings, vault, parallel bars and high bar, 1st overall – Myles Dobbs-Brown (Mareeba)

Level 9

1st pommel and vault, 2nd rings, floor, parallel bars and high bar, 1st overall – Oliver Hampton (Mareeba)

winners Brodie Davis

and John

second place Ash Ewing

Pro Sprintcars

(centre),

(left)

Magro (right).

SPORT

Mareeba boys launch Aaron Payne Cup campaign

High

MAREEBA High School has launched its campaign in the 2024 national schoolboys’ rugby league competition with a first-round win and a secondround loss.

For the third year in a row, the school has entered the prestigious Aaron Payne Cup (open boys) (APC), a secondary school rugby league competition for schools in Far North, North and Central Queensland. It is a round robin competition, with the winner moving on to contest the state finals, the Phil Hall Cup.

The school is also fielding teams in sister competitions, the Cowboys Chal-

lenge (U15 boys) and the Karen Murphy Cup (open girls).

The school’s APC and challenge squads have taken on a new look this year, with the competition organiser, the NRL, endorsing Mareeba’s decision to boost its homegrown player stocks with players from southern Tableland schools.

The move, however, comes at a sacrifice – Mareeba’s APC team is unable to contest finals, regardless of the outcome of round games.

Clint Cifuentes, coach of the APC team and the driving force behind the

school’s entry in the competition, said the decision to open the squads to players from outside Mareeba High School was not taken lightly, but was a necessary one to enable Mareeba to be competitive based on available players.

“First and foremost, we run the program using rugby league as a tool to get students back into the classroom,” Mr Cifuentes said.

“Although its early days, our focus is paying dividends.

“The involvement of talent identified players from schools in Atherton, Malanda, Ravenshoe and Herberton, and St

Stephens in Mareeba, has allowed Mareeba High to continue to participate in the competition.

“It does mean that we won’t be able to contest the finals, as we are working outside the ‘school-based team’ rules of the competition.

“However, the expanded squad is a win-win – Mareeba gets to continue to compete in the competition, and we give an opportunity for other students across the Tablelands to play at this level too.”

Mr Cifuentes is pleased with the team’s response to training, with a fo-

MX action set for Mareeba

MOTORCROSS lovers from across the region are revving up for Mareeba Motorcross Club’s annual two-day JR’s TNQ Motorcross Series this weekend.

More than 200 riders and their supporters from all over North Queensland are expected to attend, and the series is set to welcome the best riders from the region.

There will be 14 race classes for riders as young as seven to participate in.

Categories include the 50cc demos, 50cc autos (7-9 years), 65cc (7-10s) and (10-12) years, mini lites (9-12) and (12-16) years, junior lites 2 and 4 stroke, MX1 and MX2 championships, MX1 and MX2 club support, senior women and veterans.

With free entry and entertainment provided in the form of a kid’s corner on Saturday and Sunday and a full canteen for breakfast and lunch, bring the family for a great family day out to watch all the MX action while supporting your local club.

There is also a monster raffle taking place with prizes that have been donated by local businesses.

There will also be food vans and a local band playing Saturday night.

Gates open for spectators from 9am on Saturday and Sunday.

cus on the “one per centers”, and fundamentals like ball control and defence, paying dividends.

Mareeba’s campaign has started well with a 30-4 win against Mackay’s Holy Spirit College (HSC) before going down, 22-10, to Mackay State High School in round two.

The challenge team recorded a firstround win against HSC but lost to Mackay High while the Karen Murphy Cup girls are undefeated after two rounds.

The team was set to play Monday against St Augustine College on Monday afternoon.

SHOOTERS from across the region gathered at the NSAA Tinaroo Range recently to honour Bob Chester during the Bob Chester Memorial Shoot.

Hosted by the NSAA Tableland Branch, 20 shooters from the respective NSAA Tableland and Innisfail branches competed in the Nasho’s Memorial Shoot on Saturday, 1 June, with John Lindsay taking home the overall win.

Of a total possible 400.40 points, Rusty Vonarx (391.8) beat out branch patron Ray Byrnes (363.8) and 2022 competition winner, Doug Smith (354.12) in the top three Nasho marksman category.

RESULTS: Tableland Branch Total: 327 Innisfail Branch Total: 281

Overall winner: John Lindsay (Tableland) with 15 V bulls “FNQ Nasho Marksman Trophy”: Rusty Vonarx (Tableland) with 391.8 points. “Friends of Nashos Trophy”: John Lindsay (Tableland) with 391.15 points. “Encouragement Trophy”: Terry Edmondson (Tableland) with 153 points

Mareeba

School’s Aaron Payne Cup team after the first-round win against Holy Spirit College, Mackay.

Lions take down Bulls in 4-2 victory

THE Leichhardt Lions walked away with a 4-2 victory over the Mareeba Bulls premier men over the weekend, with a lack of ball possession in the second half leaving the local team struggling to make a comeback.

Starting the game off strong, Mareeba’s Wayne Srhoj scored the first two goals in the 19th and 25th minutes, giving them a boost of confidence.

But the Lions were hungry and took control over the ball into the 30th minute, with Jean Assumani scoring a goal in the 35th minute and Joshua Mulla scoring in the 45th.

Coming into the second half, the Bulls were determined to make a comeback but couldn’t find their feet.

The Lions took that to their advantage, scoring two more goals in the 82nd and 86th minutes.

“We just let go of that possession too easily, and we didn’t treasure the ball,” coach Kane Alderton said.

“Because of that, we found ourselves at the back of two goals in the second half, and it was a bit disappointing for all of us.

“I can’t fault the boy's efforts, though – the effort was there, it's just the execution that wasn’t,

which is out of character for us because we have been playing really well during training.

“Everyone dug deep and gave it their all, but things just weren’t falling into place, and we weren’t getting back to basics and pushing too hard.”

The premier ladies were given a last-minute break over the weekend when the Leichhardt forfeited the game last Thursday.

Bulls ladies coach Christian Mukadi said it was disappointing that the team forfeited so close to the game, but it has given the team an extra opportunity to focus on their training ahead of their next game on 21 June against Innisfail United.

“We know that Innisfail will be a difficult team to go up against, but we have to win four out of the next six games to make it into the finals,” he said.

“I am pretty confident, though, in the girls, and I believe we have the ability to do it.”

Now sitting fourth on the ladder, Mareeba’s premier men have acquired 14 points so far this season, while the women are sitting at fifth with 12 points.

The Bulls premier men will go up against Marlin Coast at home this Sunday from 5pm, while the premier women’s have a bye.

Roosters dominate Storm in Round 11

A FLOOD of tries and a solid defensive line worked in the Atherton Roosters Women's side’s favour on Saturday morning, when they dominated over Edmonton Storm, 40-10.

Leading 22-6 at the break, the ladies were on their best game against the Storm, with hooker Kimberley Bryant and halfback captain Teesha Potts putting on their best performances to help the team secure the win.

Bryant scored three of seven tries, while Potts put on a strong performance in the middle, and Aleysha Genge converted four for her side.

Coach Paul Stephens was very impressed with every player's efforts and hoped they would keep it up as they head into the last leg of the FNQRL Women’s season.

“Our defence was really good, and even though Edmonton had their fair share of the ball, we held them back,” he said.

“We took our chances and were 22-6 by halftime. We were completing sets, and we were in a good territory.”

The ladies are currently second on the FNQRL ladder, with a six-point buffer between them and thirdplace holder Yarrabah Sea Hawks.

The Roosters will go up against Edmonton again on 22 June at Petersen Park.

Mulungu brings Immortals to Mareeba

MULUNGU Health Services presents the Arthur Beetson Future Immortals Tour this weekend which will bring 20 rugby league legends to Mareeba.

The tour will include several days of community engagement with young and old, across the Mareeba shire.

The over-arching theme and focus of the tour is to shed light on violence within the community. Mulungu and the rugby league legends will connect with community over

the three days and have important conversations about how violence impacts communities and how the community can come together to overcome these challenges.

Former league greats such as Petero Civoniceva, who played more than 300 NRL games and appeared in 33 State of Origin matches during his career, will line up for a friendly exhibition match on Saturday at Davies Park.

Other players who are part of the tour

include Shaun Berrigan, Fetuli Talanoa and Preston Campbell. Saturday’s event will commence with a coaching clinic and community engagement stalls at 1pm, continuing throughout the afternoon and will conclude in the main exhibition match which commences from 4.30pm.

The main match will include players from Mareeba and Atherton and are sure to be entertaining.

Gladiators thrash Tigers in first win of season

BY ELLIE FINK

THE Mareeba Gladiators have demolished the Tully Tigers in a 62-6 beating over the weekend, notching up their first official winning of the 2024 FNQRL season.

The Gators went on to the Tully field with hunger in their eyes and hopes of taking down the Tigers after only drawing twice in the season so far.

The whole team stepped up to score an avalanche of tries, with 11 players crossing the try line throughout the match and having great success with their conversions, scoring nine out of 11.

Noah Blooranta had his eye in, scoring six out of the 11 conversions and crossing the try line once.

Meanwhile, Tully’s Phil Nona scored the only try for the home side, and Morgan Black the only conversion.

President Shaun Fincham said he was incredibly proud of the team’s efforts and of seeing them improve in every game.

“Tully is a well-coached side, and they always come prepared to compete,” he said.

“It was a physical game early; the lads did well to weather the early exchanges before some slick movements saw the scoreboard tick over.

“We have a lot of talent at the club. It was great to see the lads at their best and enjoying footy.”

The win for the Gators puts them in ninth place on the FNQRL ladder with six points, ahead of Tully and Southern Suburbs.

Meanwhile, the Gators under 19s played a tight match against Tully, securing a 32-28 victory, while in the reserve grade, Tully took down the Gators 54-4.

The Gators head to Mossman to take on the Sharks on 22 June at the Mossman Showgrounds.

Atherton Square, Cook Street, Atherton PHONE 4091 3919

Roosters May May Hobbler during Saturday’s game.

to us today before it's too late.