The Express Newspaper 09 October 2024

EXPRESS The

Delivering news across our region WEDNESDAY 11 SEPTEMBER, WEDNESDAY 9 OCTOBER, 2024 2024

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MINE CRITICAL TO GLOBAL SECURITY

WONDERFUL timber creations impressed patrons who attended the Festival of the Forest woodwork exhibition on the weekend as part of the annual Torimba Festival. 2024 Miss Torimba Claire Kidner was in awe of some of the pieces on display including this beautifully-crafted mirror. The Torimba Festival wraps up this Saturday, with the Street Parade and Mardi Gras in Ravenshoe featuring a “lolly explosion”, woodchops and fireworks display.

More pictures – Page 13

WONDER OF WOOD THE LITTLE MINE THAT COULD...

As China and Russia dominate the world tungsten supply, Mt Carbine has become a vital source of the hard metal for United States industries crucial to national security, technology and sustainable energy development – SEE PAGE 3

2024 QUEENSLAND ELECTION – P3 & 8-11

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MANAGING EDITOR Carl Portella

SENIOR JOURNALIST Robyn Holmes

PAPER MANAGER Natasha Srhoj

SENIOR JOURNALIST Andree Stephens

Distillery vies for big award

Koah torture charges NEXT to names of countries like Bar-

Mareeba Mayor Angela Toppin with 14 new citizens in the shire who were recently sworn in.

bados, Thailand and Cairns Venezuela, the litOFFICERS from the tle local townInvestigation of Walkamin sounds a Criminal bit out yesterday of place, andcharged rightly so.

Branch But our very own FNQ Rum from two men following ongoing Mt Uncle Distillery investigations into anhasal-been shortlisted alongside otheronrenowned disleged incident at Koah 28 tilleries from those countries for Rum August.

Producer the Year the prestigious The manofwas takenat into International andwarSpirit Compecustody after aWine search tition (IWSC). rant was executed at a KookIWSC is renowned aburraThe Close address at 1pm for its rigorous judging process, which evaluon 30 September. ates spirits based on taste, balance, It will be alleged the finish, and value.

57-year-old man was in“This competition is also known volved in the repeated as the ‘Oscars of the Spirits industry’ and continued assault of or it’s like the Olympics in a way, the a 47-year-old man during Rum Producer Trophy is one of the which time the victim was most sought-after accolades,” Mt Unstabbed in the legs and struck cle’s head distiller Mark Watkins said. in the head.

PEOPLE from all over the globe are finding their population,” Mayor Angela Toppin said.

“Being recognised on this level by Police investigations inNew Zealand is the most popular country of new the IWSC is incredibly rewarding forhome in Mareeba, with 14 new Australian dicate the men are known to origin, making up over one quarter of those who citizens recently sworn in. our team. each other.

“We strive to craft rums that The re- group brings the number of new citizens become Australian citizens in the Mareeba Shire, The victim was treated who have taken the oath in the shire this year to 65. followed by South Africa (14%), Britain (9%) flect the unique terroir of Far North forQueensland, multiple injuries at Cairns The new citizens have come from 20 countries and Ukraine (9%). and this nomination reafHospital.

“Council proudly hosts the citizenship ceraround firms that our efforts are resonating on the world, with the 14 sworn recently comThe 57-year-old ing from Canada, Indonesia, New Zealand, the emonies on behalf of the Department of Home the world stage.” man has Mt Uncle Distillery Head and DistillerAffairs.

Mark Watkins with FNQ awardbeen FNQ charged withis one Philippines, Slovenia, SouthOwner Africa,and Ukraine The ceremony is Rum’s a special occasion that Rum the count only Australian winning Iridium X rum. the United Kingdom. marks the end of the journey as a migrant and each of armed robbery, torbrand shortlisted for the Rum Produc“Mareeba Shire is a diverse community, with the start of a new life as an Australian citizen,” ture, wounding, deprivation er Trophy, “standing proudly” along- locally and internationally for their dis- a stellar year for FNQ Rum, during over 75 different cultures represented across our Mayor Toppin said. of side liberty, globalenter giantsdwelling, such as Foursquare tinct flavours and exceptional quality”. which it has already secured multiple possession utensils, pos- Sang Som “We use sugar cane nectar to pro- awards. At the World Rum Awards Rum USAoffrom Barbados, session of dangerous drug, duce a more rich and sweet flavour and earlier this year, FNQ Rum took home Distillery from Thailand, and Ron Roandblefour of assault then we age the spirit in ex-Australian two gold medals for its Platinum Cane Viejocounts from Venezuela. and five counts of fail to cements ap“This nomination FNQ red wine barrels, so it combines these Spirit and Iridium Agave Cask Finpear. firearms up verybeing securely, and ensure EIGHTEEN or unregistered alongside named World’sthey leave flavours well,” Mark said. firearms ish, Rum’s position as a leading force in nice unlicensed A global 41-year-old Kuranda keys out of place and not inAdditionally, the same room as their properties Tablelands Sugarcane Spirit.

“Andfrom we’re situatedoninthe a really nice Best the rum industry and is ahave tes-been seized man was tocharged firearms are being stored,” to he quality said. was and Cairns as part part of Operation Le- the brand’s commitment area, theas fl uctuations in Whiskey temperature tament years ofwith hardone work, dedicacount of wounding, torture, “There is no placewith for afirearm to the Farand North. highlighted silver related medal violence with the hot days cold nights helps further tion, and innovation,” Mark said.gion’s deployment in the North Queensland late September, po- at deprivation of liberty, armedits rums Since theFar International Wine community, and Spiritso people theoperation spirit agelaunched really well.”

FNQ Rum describes as the should contactfor Crime StoppersXorRum. the local police if lice have conducted weapons audits, identifying robbery, possession of the utenits Iridium The Mt24Uncle Distillery has also Competition being crafted “from rich volcanic they have concerns about firearms.” approximately 500 firearms. sils, possession of a dangerMark will be travelling to London recently started distribution in the UK, soils and sugarcane of this unique Whiskey Legionon launched Detective Senior Sergeant Tony Parsons says li- to Since oustropical drug, enter dwelling, and attendOperation the awards ceremony 12 in the adding to their many successes. region” and “produces a range Far North on 25 September, 193 people have been censed firearms holders are recognition being remindedfollows to en- November. two counts of assault.

This IWSC of rums that have been celebrated both arrested on 357 charges, including 166 adults on sure their weapons are stored appropriately.

“We encourage that firearms holders lock their 291 offences and 27 young people on 66 offences.

Mareeba a magnet for new citizens

CADET JOURNALIST Konnor Furber

Police move to seize firearms

ADMINISTRATION Beth Sykes

MARKETING Darryl Day

DIGITAL CONTENT Maddy Gavin

CIRCULATION 14,000

The Express is published by Portasea Pty Ltd, 141 Constance St, Mareeba QLD 4880. ACN: 141 250 213 Printed by Townsville print centre, 623-645 Flinders St. Townsville QLD 4810

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Crackdown on feeding crocs

OPEN DAY

NEW offences and increased fines have been brought penalties for existing offences which aim to deter in by the State Government to crack down on feeding people from engaging in behaviours that pose a serious risk to public safety and animal conservation. and interfering with crocodiles.

The on-the-spot fine for deliberately disturbing or Two new offences have been introduced making it unlawful to unintentionally feed a crocodile by dis- feeding crocodiles has increased from $483 to $2580, carding food and remaining in close proximity to a with the maximum court-imposed fine increasing crocodile. from $6452 to $26,615.

Discarding food, including fish frames, scraps and The on-the-spot fine for interfering with a crocobait, in a way that may attract crocodiles to a public dile trap has increased from $645 to $2580, with place such as a boat ramp, jetty, pontoon or camping the maximum court-imposed fine increasing from (T&C apply.) area can now result in an on-the-spot fine of $483 or $19,356 to $26,615. a maximum court-imposed fine of $6,452.

But State Member for Hill Shane Knuth, who Knowingly remaining within close proximity to a introduced the KAP’s Crocodile Control, Conservacrocodile that is on, or partly on, land can now result tion, and Safety Bill 2024 into Parliament last month, in an on-the-spot fine of $806 orMonday a maximum courtslammed the new 7.30am offences and fi-nes as “nothing to Thursday 4.30pm imposed fine of $16,130. more than a band-aid fix”.

We specialise in large quantity grow-to-orders.

Bananas, coffee, This offence complements the existingand “disturb“Thenatives, State Government hastrees, failed to manage fruit the tropical sub-tropical rainforest exotics, ing” offence which prevents people frombushfoods, approach- bird crocodile for over a decade, and nowbreaks. it’s comtrees, andcrisis butterfly attractors, wind ing or pursuing a crocodile or driving a boat or vehi- pletely out of control,” he said.

“Ask anyone who regularly fishes or uses our wacle within 10m of it.

Visit: www.yuruga.com.au terways they’ll tell youbetween the crocodile population has Conservation officers now also have the power to 5970 Kennedy Hwy, Walkamin (on- the Jump-Up Mareeba and Atherton) direct people to move away from a crocodile to avoid exploded. “This is a Northern Queensland issue, and Phone: (07) 4093 3826 Email: it should•be managednursery@yuruga.com.au locally, not from over 1,800 km any potential human-crocodile interactions.

The government has also significantly increased away in an ivory tower.”

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Cook candidates front forum

By ROBYN HOLMES

UPGRADING the Mareeba Hospital, constructing the long-awaited Mareeba bypass, the need for action on the Kuranda Range Road and Barron River bridge, and the youth crime crisis came to the fore during a public forum last week attended by five of the six candidates hoping to be the next Member of Parliament for the Cook electorate.

Labor’s Cynthia Lui has held the seat for two terms of office and anyone wishing to topple her will need a swing of around 6.3% to be successful.

Ms Lui defended her record of delivering for the electorate during the forum, citing various projects that have been funded by her government, her “passion” for better health services and Labor’s plans for more economic development in the region which would deliver better outcomes for communities.

But she ruled out shifting her Cairns office to Mareeba, despite Katter’s Australian Party’s Duane Amos and LNP’s David Kempton having already secured offices in the town’s CBD. “Historically, it’s always been in Cairns where it is central to the electorate - it is in the most central and accessible location for a large number of constituents who live in the electorate,” she said.

The forum at the Mareeba International Club saw the five candidates put forward their case as to why they should be elected on 26 October.

Mr Kempton cited his 40-plus years of living in the region as to why he is the right person to represent Cook, asserting that the Coalition had the right policies and plans to reduce crime, tackle the problems with the region’s road network and to cut the “waste” by ensuring decisions on what the priorities are were made at a local level.

Mr Amos said he was armed with the knowledge of how to tackle the youth

Cook candidates (from left) Duane Amos (KAP), Peter Campion (One Nation), Troy Miller (Greens), David Kempton (LNP) and Cynthia Lui (Labor) at the public forum last week. The Express managing editor Carl Portella was the emcee of the event.

crime crisis with his 34 years in policing, and understood what challenges small businesses faced, being a small business owner himself. He said he had “a tiger in his tank” and was prepared to hold the major parties to account, especially if KAP won enough seats to hold the balance of power in the parliament.

One Nation’s Peter Campion lamented how the youth crime crisis had undermined people’s lives, taking away their freedom to feel safe, saying that the current situation “imprisons the many because we let the few run rampant”. He also criticised both major parties over their stance on climate change, saying that while China went ahead “leaps and bounds” using coal-fired power stations, “we are in the dark ages”.

The Greens’ Troy Miller made it clear his party was focused on ensuring

that the “big corporations” paid more tax to fund initiatives like free university and TAFE for everyone, the cancellation of HECs debt and to include dental services in Medicare. He also touted the party’s demand for rents to be frozen for two years “to give time for wages to catch up”.

The current crime crisis was a main topic of discussion, with each candidate outlining what their party would do if elected.

Ms Lui said her government had passed strong legislation to tackle the issue and was investing in a $1.28 billion community safety plan that included $228 million for intervention programs, while accusing the LNP of cutting police numbers when they were last in power.

Referring to the recent news that a police helicopter would be based in

Cairns to help reduce crime, Mr Amos said “helicopters don’t solve crime” and that current legislation was “out of touch with society’s needs”.

Mr Kempton said Labor had had 10 years to “sort this problem out and done nothing” and that if elected, the LNP would get new legislation passed before Christmas that would allow the courts to sentence perpetrators who committed serious crime to “adult time”.

Mr Campion attributed the current crime crisis to “watered down legislation” and agreed that youth offenders needed to be sent to boot camps, and penalties and bail laws strengthened, while Mr Miller linked the crime crisis to the increase in poverty, saying that until living standards were improved, and services provided to help youth who were exposed to trauma or did not have food

or a place to sleep, it would continue to be a big problem.

When it came to the big issues that rear up every election cycle, the candidates were mostly aligned on what should be done but there were few solid commitments when it came to the hospital upgrade and the construction of a heavy vehicle bypass for Mareeba.

Mr Amos put the lack of action on the bypass to the region not getting its fair share of funding for critical infrastructure, while Mr Kempton says his new local road advisory group would be given the ability to identify and prioritise what works were needed such as the bypass, Ootann Road, the missing sealed section on the road to Chillagoe, and badly needed unhitching or breakdown pads.

Ms Lui said the bypass had been “in the conversation for a very long time” but stood by her advocacy efforts which, she says, secured $1.5 million for the business case to be completed that would provide the argument for funding the construction of the new road.

Mr Campion asserted that if “we allowed the country to prosper….we’d have enough money to do the bypass and repair the Kuranda Range Road… but we’re not going to get that infrastructure until we get the Labor and Liberal UNiparty out”.

All candidates agreed that the Mareeba Hospital deserved more attention, in particular a dialysis machine and an upgraded Emergency Department.

Ms Lui, who recently launched a petition to her own Health Minister calling for the hospital to be upgraded, said that during her time in office, she had brought back endoscopy services to Mareeba, a new CT scanner and a new ambulance station.

• Continued page 8

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Expo to connect seniors SENIORS can discover organisations that can enhance their lives at Tablelands Regional Council’s renowned Age-Friendly Expo to be held next Tuesday.

The free expo is part of activities throughout Queensland Seniors Month and will feature community organisations, recreational clubs and presentations that are relevant to older people.

“This is a great opportunity for everyone to come together and celebrate the essential roles that older people play in our community,” Youth and Inclusion Advisory Committee chair Cr Kylie Lang said.

“Ageing affects us and our loved ones in some way and there are so many organisations out there who can support families through the ageing process.

“It’s fantastic to have them all in one place.”

Cr Lang said that for those who were looking to join a club, volunteer or meet new friends, the expo offered the opportunity to connect with community organisations and recreational clubs like Tablelands Libraries, U3A Atherton Tablelands, Tableland Social Dancers, Zumba Gold, Tableland Garden Group, Tableland Bridge, Atherton District Meals on Wheels, Senior Women Enjoying Later Life, Eacham Senior Citizen Association and various men’s sheds.

“Speak to people with lived experiences and support organisations like Seniors Helpers, Home Caring, Better Together Community Support Care Finder, Sunbird

Aged Care Navigation and Services Australia Aged Care Specialist to help ageing family members,” Cr Lang said.

“Experts like Home Caring, Atherton Health Hub, Cairns Community Legal Centre, Atherton Community Health, Carinya Home for the Aged, Atherton Home Assist Secure, NBN Co. and ECHO Empowering Services will provide advice on how to age well, including legal and health services and providers, aged care planning and support services.”

Expo patrons can also get a free health and hearing check and enjoy a complimentary expo morning tea for seniors.

Register at www.trc.qld.gov.au/expomorning-tea Presentations during the day will include the Library Tech Demo at 9.30am and 11am; Person-Centred Emergency Preparedness at 10am; Online Safety and Scam Awareness at 11.30am; and Supporting Parents Through the Ageing Red Tape at 12 noon.

The Age-Friendly Expo will be held on Tuesday 15 October from 9am-1pm at the Merriland Hall in the Atherton Showgrounds.

Cr Lang said the council would be hosting other events and services in the coming weeks including a Seniors Safety Squad to be held this Thursday (10 Oct) from 9am-2pm at the Coordination Centre in Vernon Street, Atherton. Register at www.trc.qld.gov.au/safety-squad or by calling 1300 362 242.

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BINGO!

PLAYING bingo this Saturday night will give a helping hand to the National Breast Cancer Association.

The Bingo for Breast Cancer event will be staged at the Atherton International Club on Saturday from 5.30pm.

The evening promises to deliver a fun night of bingo, with some great prizes up for grabs, raffles, and more.

Attendees are encouraged to wear pink, with a prize for the Best Dressed on the night up for grabs.

Doors open at 5.30pm for a 6.30pm start.

Tickets are $35 and available by emailing thinkpinkforBCA@ gmail.com There are a limited number of tickets available so get in quick.

Tired of paying rent on your gas cylinders?

Remains of syringes left on the banks of the Barron River at Mareeba.

A dead animal floating in the river near the John Doyle Bridge.

By KONNOR FURBER IMAGES of dead livestock, used syringes, broken glass and rubbish at the Barron River by the John Doyle Bridge recently posted to Facebook have disgusted the community.

The post was from a local man who claimed to have gone down to the river to take his daughter and niece fishing.

Upon arriving, he found “broken glass, rubbish, carcasses and needles”, posing a serious health risk to the young children he had with him and to members of the community who use this area responsibly.

“I feel like it was a goat, but I can’t be certain,” the man said, referring to the dead animal in the river.

“There was one either side of the bridge.”

The post generated numerous comments from the public including “that’s so gross and terrible, whoever is doing this take ya rubbish with you” and “that’s disgusting, poor animal”.

Mareeba Shire Council acknowledged that people used the area but it did not have the resources to maintain it.

However, in this instance, council staff did attend the site but could not locate any needles.

“Council has no tenure or authority over the river itself. While it is trustee for the ‘esplanade’ along the Barron River, this is not a formal public space,” Mayor Angela Toppin said.

“And although we know people use it, the unfortunate reality is that council simply does not have the resources to maintain or clear rubbish in all areas we own across the shire.

“It is really disappointing to see the rubbish that is carelessly tossed into the environment.”

A council spokesperson said if there was a large amount of illegally dumped waste, council would pick it up, however, with a small amount of isolated litter scattered along the riverbank, they did not have the resources to collect it.

“Council needs to prioritise high traffic parks and open spaces and people need to do the right thing and not leave litter behind,” the spokesperson said.

The council urged members of the community to report dangerous hazards in playgrounds or parks on 1300 308 461 for prompt action.

They also strongly encouraged people to report illegal dumping on the same number or to the State Government on 13 74 68 or via their website.

“Everyone needs to take responsibility for their own litter,” Mayor Toppin said.

“If you see someone littering from a vehicle, vessel or trailer you can report these details too.

“It is important to note that nearly 75% of littering reports made to the State Government result in the vehicle owner receiving an infringement.”

Women on toy theft charges TWO women have been charged over the alleged theft of $1000 in toys.

On 1 October, detectives executed a search warrant at a Mareeba property in relation to the alleged theft from a Mulgrave Road shopping centre on 17 September.

It will be alleged officers located and

seized approximately $1000 worth of stolen toys.

A 24-year-old Mareeba woman and a 29-year-old Biboohra woman were both charged with one count of stealing.

Both are scheduled to appear in the Cairns Magistrates Court on 16 October.

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Ready, set, Savannah!

“The sales for the festival this year are tracking consistently at 25% up, which is very much against the trend for festivals around the country.”

Kip Moore will be the main attraction for festival-goers at Savannah in the Round this Saturday night at 8.55pm.

– James Dein

Hitting the stage at 8.55pm on Friday night, Tyler Hubbard will be the festival’s first international artist for 2024.

By KONNOR FURBER THOUSANDS of people will converge on Mareeba to attend the biggest music festival in the region, with ticket sales up 25% from last year and new initiatives introduced.

Up there with the country’s top music festivals, Savannah in the Round will feature chart-topping, international headlining acts, a multitude of Australian talent, Far North Queensland’s premier bullriding series, a wide range of culinary options and camping and glamping availabilities with line dancing in the mornings and after parties into the night.

Now in its fifth year, the festival is also introducing an official app, helicopter flights over Kerribee Park where the event is staged and shuttle buses to and from Atherton, Malanda, Port Douglas and Cairns.

Festival director James Dein is excited that the festival is growing, revealing that camping for the event had completely sold out and pre-ticket sales were already up by around 25% from last year.

“We’re into year five, which is a bit of a milestone for a new festival,” he said.

“The sales for the festival this year are tracking consistently at 25% up, which is very much against the trend for festivals around the country.

“There’s something for everyone at this festival and like any great, familyoriented event, there will be people from the ages of eight to 80 getting to see renowned international acts and also many great Australian acts.”

With the decline in music festivals around the country ever more prolific, Mr Dein expects Savannah in the Round to draw in many avid festival-goers from around the nation.

“I absolutely think this is a good thing

THIS year, Savannah in the Round has introduced new initiatives in order to make patron experience easier and more convenient.

Shuttle buses to and from the festival are now available to festival-goers.

These will run from Cairns, Port Douglas, Atherton and Malanda. Prices for this service range from $40-$130.

In addition to this, there will also be scenic helicopter flights over the festival grounds available, with prices ranging from $125$415.

Bookings are essential for these services.

To book, visit the “Buses and Helicopter Flights” ticket option on the Savannah in the Round website.

The official Savannah in the Round app has also been launched as a convenient way to have the festival schedule in your pocket, allowing users to plan their itinerary and watch the artists they desire to see.

for us and I feel there will be a lot of people looking for festivals and I feel they’ll come north for Savannah in the Round,” he said.

“And I think there’s a lot of music festivals that won’t be running next year, including Big Red Bash (at Birdsville) and many others.

“At the moment, I would expect a cumulative audience of 24,000 people attending the festival. We’re not as big as the Mareeba Rodeo yet, but we’re knocking on the door.”

Mr Dein said Savannah in the Round was the ultimate country music festival because it allowed visitors to the region to not only experience world-class artists but also nearby natural wonders.

“I think being on the doorstep of Far North Queensland, the Tablelands, the Savannah region, the rainforests and the Great Barrier Reef, all of those amazing attractions that you can see while you’re

“The phone app allows you to curate your experience, plan who you want to see, check the timetable of when various artists are performing and just stay in touch with the schedule,” Mr Dein said.

The Great Northern Bullriding Series will again be returning to the festival, adding that extra-country experience.

Set to kick off at 2.40pm on Saturday, the bullride will feature some of best riders in the region battling it out in the second-last event in the series.

Workshops will also be held this year to allow locals to get insights on how to enter the music sector.

The sessions will be at 9am at the Backyard Stage each day, with Julian James teaching about vocal and stagecraft on Friday, Chris Matthews heading the “Never Practise” workshop on Saturday, and Tim Woodz hosting a songwriting session on Sunday.

here visiting the festival, is a great reason to travel up here for a holiday,” Mr Dein said.

International artists who will perform at the event are some of the greatest in their industry such as US-based Kip Moore and Tyler Hubbard and even Australia’s pop sensation Sheppard.

In addition, many of the greatest Australian acts will be making their way to the festival including Lee Kernaghan, Troy Cassar-Daley, Graeme Connors, Jon Williamson, Jon Stevens, The Living End, the Hoodoo Gurus and James Johnston, just to name a few.

Injecting almost $4.5 million into the local economy in the previous year with the thousands of people it draws to the Mareeba area, the festival is a vital economic boost for the town and local businesses.

Mareeba Shire Council provided $5,000 funding towards the festival to

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support what is considered to be a valuable economic driver for the town.

“Savannah in the Round has grown to become a valuable cultural, tourism and economic event for the region,” Mayor Angela Toppin said.

“Last year alone, Savannah in the Round injected an estimated $4.47 million into the local economy and $1.15 million into the Queensland economy, attracting around 7,583 attendees.

“The festival generated more than 23,000 visitor nights in the Mareeba Shire, with many of the visitors coming to the region from Queensland.

“We are proud to support Savannah in the Round, not just for its economic benefits but also for the incredible performance opportunities it provides to both legendary, emerging and local artists.

“We are grateful to have such a world-class event right here in Mareeba Shire.”

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Pensioners offered a helping hand

By KONNOR FURBER

A CALL for adventure and a cando attitude is all it took for four Tablelands locals to create their very own 270km long bike trail that has accommodation available at every stop.

Tim Trehearn, Peter Tuck, Peter MacGregor and Peter Blakey are avid cyclists from the Tablelands and recently developed the FNQ Pioneer Bike Trail that journeys through the “remote savannah and outback regions” and is approximately 270km long when the circuit is completed in full.

The track is modelled after the Central West Bike Trail around Dubbo and means that you can cycle the trail, from accommodation to accommodation in each town, without having to carry any meals or camping equipment.

After the idea was conjured up, the men began organising a website and speaking to accommodation owners in all the towns and after just two months the website was up and the track was ready to go.

“There’s a few of us here who ride a lot and we’ve been riding that route, just with friends and family, for the last 20 years,” Tim said.

“And after riding the trail in Dubbo, I thought, well we could do that up here.

“We wanted to do a track where all you needed was a change of undies, a jacket, a first aid kit, some water and away you go.”

The trail is a conglomerate of existing and quiet roads that run from Atherton to Herberton and

then onto Irvinebank, Petford, Mount Garnet and Ravenshoe before completing the loop back to Herberton and Atherton.

This gives cyclists the opportunity to complete the trail in 5-7 days, all the while enjoying the scenery of remote North Queensland that has accommodation provided each night.

However, any section of the trail can be ridden for those looking to do just a day or weekend of cycling.

Some highlights along the track include the railway ride from Atherton to Herberton, the Loudon House Museum and Brian’s Shed in Irvinebank and Innot Hot Springs, but according to Tim, “the ride itself is the highlight”.

Atherton is the biggest town on the circuit and is the recommended start for the Pioneer Trail. The trail can be done in either direction but anticlockwise is recommended as the general gradient is much easier.

There is phone reception in each town centre but very little along the trail and many sections where there is none at all.

The trail is of easy to moderate difficulty and is quite remote, so a mountain bike or good gravel bike, or an eBike with wide tyres is recommended.

Although the purpose of the track is to be able to cycle from town to town without the need for any camping gear, camping is allowed along the trail for those who wish to do so.

For more information visit www.fnqpioneerbiketrails.com. au

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PENSIONERS in the Tablelands Regional Council area are getting help to prepare for the upcoming cyclone season through the council’s free pre-cyclone collection service.

“Now is the time to prepare for cyclone season by cutting back vegetation and tidying your yard,” Local Disaster Management Group chair Mayor Rod Marti said.

Under the scheme, residents who receive an age or disability pension and are in a kerbside collection area can register for our free waste collection program.

“We’ll remove waste that is hazardous during storms and cyclones including green waste, iron and general yard debris,” Mayor Marti said.

“Please make sure items are placed in an easily accessible location outside your property, and can be easily handled by one person.”

Pensioners can register at www.trc.qld.gov.au/ cyclone-cleanup or 1300 362 242 before 5pm on Friday 25 October.

Collections will begin in early November.

Innovative bike trail created

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

Neighbours angry over farm expansion

By ROBYN HOLMES

A LEGAL stoush between Tablelands Regional Council and Old Mates Farm is over, with the Planning and Environment Court signing off on new conditions for the expansion of the Upper Barron tourist facility, leaving neighbours feeling frustrated and angry that their piece of paradise has been lost.

Old Mates Farm owners Louise Livingstone and Tony Freeman appealed a decision made by the previous council in September last year that would have allowed for additional campsites, new buildings and facilities but restricted the farm from having any day visitors, only allowing 12 overnight visitors and a raft of other conditions the owners thought were “bizarre”.

Council’s conditions included undertaking major improvements to the single-lane Hemmings Lane including sealing 120m of the road, installing mirrors to improve sight lines, installing signage to instruct vehicles to give way at the bridge and vegetation slashing.

The farm would also have had to cease operations during the wet season.

The conditions were based on concerns by Hemmings Lane neighbours who were also angry that the farm had been breaching the conditions of its original approval for years, with its website advertising 18 campsites that could potentially cater to 180 people in contrast to the original approval for only five campsites and 12 people.

Council wrote to the owners in December 2022 to “request” that they “limit the tourism use to the scale outlined in their existing development permit” and warned that if they failed to comply, enforcement action would be considered. The farm then closed its doors in April 2023, saying the operation was not economically viable with

The popular Old Mates Farm now has approval to expand, but neighbours are not happy.

just 12 guests allowed.

Once the September 2023 decision was made, Ms Livingstone and Mr Freeman launched an appeal, claiming the conditions were “an unreasonable imposition on the development”.

The matter progressed to mediation during which a new set of conditions were agreed upon that were recently sanctioned by the court and the council.

The new conditions allow the farm to host up to 74 overnight guests and up to 30 day visitors and also do not require the operation to cease during the wet season, but neighbours are sceptical that the farm will stick to those conditions given its past history.

“Past behaviour is a great predictor of future behaviour so we have no con-

fidence that the farm will adhere to the conditions that have been set,” neighbour Russell Lynch said.

“It’s a situation where the farm’s owners and guests will get the gain and we get all the pain – the neighbours will be the ones that pay the price for this business.

“Who is going to enforce these conditions?”

Hemmings Lane property owner Kirsten Veivers blames the new TRC council for allowing the conditions set in September last year by the previous council to be overturned.

“We are highly disgusted and disappointed in the new councillors and Mayor for overturning the last councillors’ decision to limit Old Mates Farm

to 12 people per night to now being in the next stage towards a much larger operation down the track,” she said.

“We bought our parcel of land 10 years ago on a quiet little dirt road, where our kids could have somewhat of a laid-back country lifestyle as we did as children. With this new council, they have yet again forgot about the locals who reside in this countryside town for the want to have more tourism, tourism, and tourism.

“We are so quickly losing what the Tablelands is because of these types of decisions. Shame on the council.”

Neighbour Nicola Daaboul said Hemmings Lane residents were “astonished” that the new TRC overturned the previous council’s decision and, in do-

ing so, disregarded concerns and conditions imposed including some recommended in the original council officer’s report like the annual closure period during wet season and the restriction on vehicle length despite concerns raised in the Traffic Impact Assessment.

“There is also no solution provided for the dangerous bridge approaches other than to erect give-way signage,” she said.

“On several occasions we have reached out to the newly elected members and Mayor to voice our concerns and they have been ignored.

“Much like the Malanda Igloo petition, our concerns were thrown aside and ignored. It’s worth noting the minutes of the last meeting called for an end to the appeal whatever it takes.”

Ms Daaboul said one of the biggest concerns for residents was the likelihood that Old Mate’s Farm would breach the conditions now set down and there was no process to ensure enforcement of the conditions.

“As advertised on the OMF website, it is stated that their booking capacity is upwards of 196 persons over 18 camp sites and 3 cabins – this is well in excess of the approved conditions for 74 overnight guests. So how will council enforce it?” she said.

“TRC and Old Mates Farm have shown us that it is better to ask for forgiveness than seek permission, it’s as though the rules don’t apply to them.

“One thing I can’t figure out, is after all this time and waste of ratepayers money, fighting the appeal in court, would they simply turn around and give them everything they wanted and more?”

The Express asked Mr Freeman to comment on the new conditions, including when the farm would re-open and how much the road upgrade would cost. He did not respond by deadline.

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The Express, Wednesday October 9 2024 PAGE 7

2024 QUEENSLAND ELECTION

26 OCTOBER

Businesses to get crime help A NEW grants package to support businesses, in partnership with local councils and chambers of commerce, to bolster safety and reduce crime will be established if the LNP wins government.

The $40 million Secure Communities Partnership Program will fund critical safety measures to deter crime from shopping precincts and commercial zones, including CCTV, safety lighting and alarm systems.

The LNP says there has been a 133% increase in shop break-ins since Labor came to power, and insurance costs in Queensland had risen by 14.2% last year alone, with youth crime a major cause.

LNP Leader David Crisafulli said the LNP’s Secure Communities Partnership Program would help drive down the cost of crime for small and family businesses.

“The LNP’s Secure Communities Partnerships Program will help stop crime before it happens, reducing the cost of crime on small businesses and local government,” he said.

“We’ll give businesses a big boost to bolster safety and deter crime with funding for CCTV, lighting upgrades and alarms to help restore safety where you live.

“The cost of crime is not only replacing what’s stolen, it’s also the thousands of dollars in repairs, the increased insurance price and the lost turnover while a business is closed.

“With costs rising across the board, too many businesses are operating week to week and don’t have extra cash to pay for crime prevention – let alone the cost of break-ins.”

Candidates front forum • Continued from page 3

She had great “passion” for health and had put “in my bids” for funding for a hospital upgrade, but when they failed, she launched the petition.

Mr Kempton said he believed more health services should be provided to people in their town, naming Mareeba, Weipa and Cooktown, rather than forcing people to travel to Cairns to access them.

As a paramedic and nurse, Mr Miller said a dialysis machine in Mareeba was sorely needed to remove the unnecessary burden on patients to have to travel to Cairns for treatment. But he said more preventive measures and making sure people could afford to eat healthy food, would lead to less requirement for such treatments.

Mr Campion said Australia had the capacity to make wealth in years past but that had been eroded over the decades because of government policy while the nation’s debt had skyrocketed, robbing the community of the services and infrastructure it deserved.

Mr Amos drew attention to two dialysis machines at Lotus Glen correctional centre which, he said, were not being used and should be redeployed to the hospital. He believes a local hospital board should be restored to give the people back “a voice”.

The candidates will again face the public at this week’s Mareeba Chamber of Commerce luncheon.

KAP candidates Steven Lesina (Mulgrave), Duane Amos (Cook) and Shane Knuth (Hill) with Federal party leader Bob Katter.

Parties slammed for stance on road, bridge KATTER’S Australian Party candidates for Hill and Cook have slammed the major parties for what they call a “short-sighted bandaid fix” for the Kuranda Range Road and Barron River bridge.

To date, Labor has committed to a $450 million new bridge at the Barron River and some safety upgrades to the range road in around two years’ time after the washouts caused by Cyclone Jasper and extreme rainfall last December have been repaired.

The LNP has committed to fixing the bridge as a priority and to build a new bridge in a shorter time frame than Labor. The party has not given any commitment on an alternative road to the coast.

Member for Hill Shane Knuth and KAP candidate for Cook Duane Amos say the parties’ positions on the range road and bridge “won’t address the disastrous issues” that users face daily.

The duo is calling for a bold, long-term solution – building a new fast-tracked inland highway that will bypass the Barron River

altogether and secure the region’s prosperity for decades to come.

Mr Knuth criticised both major parties for their lack of vision.

“The reality is spending $450 million on a new Barron River Bridge is not going to fix the nightmare issues that currently exist on the Kuranda Range,” he said.

“It’s a short-term, reactionary fix that won’t solve the bigger issues of travel distance, closures, congestion, safety, and economic development.

“A new bridge won’t change the fact that the Kuranda Range is dangerous, unreliable, and inadequate for the growing population and economic needs of the region.

“The only real, viable solution is a fasttracked inland highway that will resolve all problems, open up the Tablelands and Cairns for future growth and won’t require a $450million Barron River Bridge at all,” Mr Knuth said.

KAP candidate for Cook Duane Amos echoed the sentiments, slamming both major

parties for a lack of action and foresight.

“Their approach is reactive and lacks any long-term vision for North Queensland,” he said.

“The Kuranda Range issue isn’t just about fixing a bridge, it’s about securing the region’s long-term future.

“We need infrastructure that supports our economic potential in agriculture, mining, and tourism - not patchwork solutions that will just land us back at square one in a few years.

“Where are the commitments from the major parties to a project that will actually solve the problem?

“What we need is a proper inland highway that will ensure the economic resilience of our region and save people’s lives by providing a safe, reliable route once and for all.

“This is an election priority for KAP to ensure we secure our long-term prosperity, and that starts with a fast-tracked inland highway, not a new bridge,” Mr Amos concluded.

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www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au 4/10/2024 10:57 AM

2024 QUEENSLAND ELECTION

26 OCTOBER

Festival director LNP commits to trial of puts hand up for Hill micro-public transport WELL-known for his role with the Tablelands Folk Festival, Michael Hodgkins has put his hand up to stand for October’s state election, announcing he will represent Labor in the Hill electorate.

Michael and his wife, Bronwyn, have lived in the region for almost all their lives, and now he wants to contribute to the future prosperity of people living in the Hill electorate.

“There’s no better place to live than Queensland’s tropical north,” he said.

As the festival director and president of the Tablelands Folk Festival, Michael says he has the experience in advancing what the region has to offer.

Active with arts and community groups, along with being a successful small business owner, Michael believes he is in a “prime position to inject fresh ideas for tropical industries while understanding the importance tourism plays in supporting local business and jobs”.

“The electorate of Hill needs a strong and determined advocate to promote all the advantages the area has to offer,” he said.

“It is time to change the way we interact with government.

“My vision for Hill is one of growth, inclusivity, and innovation. I believe in the power of community and will work tirelessly to ensure that every voice is heard and valued.

“A commitment to bring fresh ideas and innovative solutions to the table, through new programs, partnerships, or technologies, Hill can be at the forefront of progress.

“As we move forward, it is crucial that we do so responsibly. I will fight for sustainable practices and policies that benefit not only our community but also the environment.

“There are many issues that affect Hill,

Michael Hodgkins will stand for Labor in the Hill electorate at the election.

one being easy access to medical services whether that’s through more clinics, upgrading current services or something as simple as better public transport.

“The availability of better higher education mini campuses in under-utilised public buildings or again public transport.

“We should also investigate if the use of vacant public buildings could be an interim social housing solution by making them fit for purpose. It could be a viable option to bridge the gap until more housing can come on stream.

“But roads seem to be a priority issue that needs attention. I would work alongside local councils and the community to identify and champion the most pressing repairs and upgrades required to combat the stress and anguish these issues can produce.

“Leadership is about listening, understanding, and acting in the best interests of the community.”

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A MICRO-public transport pilot would be trialled to provide free transport between smaller towns and bigger centres if the LNP wins government at the October state election.

LNP’s Hill candidate Cameron McCollum announced the new initiative which would see three 12-seater buses based in Dimbulah, Ravenshoe and Babinda to provide a way for those who need to get larger towns to go to medical appointments, educational centres, to workplaces or other fundamental needs.

The initiative is good news for Tablelands and Mareeba Shire residents who chose public transport as the number one thing they desired for our region in the Express Yourself community survey conducted earlier this year.

The survey, which yielded 1032 respondents, revealed that public transport topped the list of desires – not surprising, given the ageing population in our region and the inability of young people to get around without someone driving them.

Mr McCollum said the new service would be funded for three years and would be managed locally so it could be adapted as the needs of the community became apparent.

“We know how diverse communities are, and so we would have the service managed by an appropriate local group – not a bureaucrat in Brisbane – because they know what

LNP’s Cameron McCollum has announced a new public transport initiative.

the community’s needs are,” he said.

“Initially, we would see people being brought from Dimbulah or Ravenshoe to the nearest larger centre but if we get feedback that people need to get to Cairns for example, then the local group can make those decisions and adapt it to suit the needs out there.”

Mr McCollum says the new service would encourage people to stay living in smaller centres if they could get effective transport to larger towns when needed.

“I see this service as giving, for example, young people who haven’t got access to transport to get to the nearest TAFE or to go to a job – they will have a connector to get them there, and that brings money back to the smaller town, which brings back

Se

a vibrance to those small communities who are withering on the vine,” he said.

Mr McCollum says the benefits will flow back to the community and to the government’s bottom line.

“It allows people to access services in those larger towns instead of creating new services to cater for those few who can’t access them at the moment, so there’s efficiencies for the taxpayers to be generated there.

“That means every last drop of value is extracted for every dollar spent on this initiative.”

Mr McCollum said the $675,000 project was part of the LNP’s focus on working harder for Queenslanders, and “actually delivering for the people of Hill, which has been the forgotten electorate for a generation”.

“This micro-public transport pilot will ensure our people who are struggling under Labor’s cost-of-living crisis or unable to drive, are still able to access essential services and amenities, such as specialist health appointments, that are not available to them in their home town.

“Poor local representation combined with Labor’s failures have overseen $20 billion-plus in whiteelephant projects and cost blowouts that could have instead delivered grassroots infrastructure like innovative public transport solutions for our region.”

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www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

The Express, Wednesday October 9 2024 PAGE 9

2024 QUEENSLAND ELECTION

26 OCTOBER

New fund aimed Local advocate to at ag productivity target State issues AN agriculture innovation fund designed to deliver cutting-edge insights and farming productivity to boost Queensland’s farm gate output to $30 billion by 2030 will become a reality if the LNP is elected on 26 October.

The $30 million investment is designed to attract the best and brightest research opportunities to Queensland, in partnership with industry and universities under the Cooperative Research Centre model, to unearth the world’s best farming innovation.

LNP Leader David Crisafulli said the landmark Sowing the Seeds of Farming Innovation fund would be kickstarted with a $30 mil-

lion injection.

“The LNP will cultivate an environment for research into Australian agriculture, delivering better productivity in farming and cutting-edge techniques to grow farm gate production,” he said.

“Our investment will attract the biggest and brightest research opportunities and harvest opportunities to boost the future of agriculture.

“Research and development are fundamental to bringing new technology and expertise to life, and critical to the ongoing success of Queensland’s $23.6 billion agricultural industry.”

Mr Crisafulli said the LNP’s commitment would allow for applications from

universities and industry to be made to government.

“The key focus and criteria for the fund would be how Queensland growers can achieve better productivity on the farm, and ensuring our producers are at the cutting edge of agricultural technology and innovation,” he said.

“Under the LNP, Queensland will reopen for business when it comes to investment in agriculture.”

The announcement follows the LNP’s commitment to beef-up biosecurity to tackle emerging threats to agriculture, with 100 additional biosecurity officers for the regions, and a review of the closure of the frontline Cape York Biosecurity Facility.

Candidates to put their case ELECTION candidates hoping to become the next State Member of Parliament for the Cook electorate will put their case to the business community at Thursday’s Mareeba Chamber of Commerce business luncheon.

Incumbent, Labor’s Cynthia Lui, LNP candidate David Kempton, One Nation’s Peter Cam-

pion, KAP’s Duane Amos and the Greens’ Troy Miller have confirmed they will attend the event.

The luncheon is from 12 noon until 2pm at the Mareeba International Club.

Anyone who is interested in attending is advised to book online at www.events.mareebachamber.com.au

MATT Lachlan has become well known for his advocacy in his local area through campaigns such as the Covid vaccine mandate and, more recently, trying to save the Malanda igloo, but now he is turning his attention to State politics, announcing he will contest the seat of Hill as an independent at October’s poll.

“Events of recent years have made it clear that in order to enact meaningful, positive policy change it needs to come from within the political system,” he said.

“I offer a different perspective and a strong, principled desire to improve government policy and the quality of life in our region.

“I believe that the electorate needs stronger representation. I have the passion and the tenacity to stand up in parliament for what is right – to fight for strong outcomes for the people of Hill.”

Matt believes that a fundamental obligation of government is to preserve the individual and collective rights of people.

“To make life easier – not harder,” he said.

“As a true independent I will work with any and all parties to achieve the best outcomes without being caught up in party politics or senseless left versus right ideology.

Matt Lachlan will stand as an Independent for Hill at the 26 October election.

“I strongly believe in meaningful consultation and community advocacy. To enable real opportunity for community input into improving policy outcomes.

“I’ve fought for this on a multitude of issues over recent years.”

Matt says he views the housing, homelessness and cost of living crises as the biggest challenges facing the people of Hill.

“A society can be assessed on how it treats those most in need.

If elected, I commit to donating 20% of my salary each year to initiatives with a strong focus to try and address and alleviate the housing crisis within Hill,” he said.

Matt says, if elected, he will lobby for support from all levels of government to contribute towards real policy solutions including: • N ew housing developments to have a covenant requiring a percentage of dwellings remain long-term rentals.

• S trong incentives to be implemented to encourage property owners to lease to long-term tenants over BnB rentals.

• M aking sure that high value food-bowl farmland is protected in the interests of Australian self-sufficiency.

• An overhaul of Queensland’s renewal energy framework, to legislate against industrial developments in ecologically sensitive, high biodiversity areas, and • F undamental electoral reform including banning political donations.

“I don’t believe that lobbyists and vested interests should have unfettered political access, nor the ability to exert undue influence over and above what the average person can,” he said.

“I have a positive, new vision for Hill and I humbly request your support in the upcoming election.” For more information, go to www.anewvisionforhill.com

Dr Shepherd now consulting at Atherton Health Hub (25 Louise Street) every fourth Thursday.

DATES: 31st October, 28th November and 23rd January Call us for an appointment, no GP referral necessary.

David Shepherd, General Orthopaedic Surgeon is the third generation in his family to be raised on the Tablelands, his Mothers’ family were dairy farmers at Millaa Millaa. David has been providing quality orthopaedic services to the far north for over 30 years. With a focus on hip, knee and shoulder; including joint, replacement.

For more information on Dr Shepherd’s services scan:

Phone: 07 4031 8400 Email: admin@orthoshep.com.au PAGE 10 The Express, Wednesday October 9 2024

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

2024 QUEENSLAND ELECTION

Tania Ahlers fighting fire on Maitland Downs in October last year after a planned burn

by QPWS got out of control.

Tania and John Ahlers, from Maitland Downs, are still waiting to hear about any compensation.

Families fired up over compensation THE Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service is under fire about a planned burn 12 months ago that went wrong and ended up causing significant losses to neighbouring properties who have yet to receive any compensation.

LNP candidate for Cook David Kempton raised the issue last week, saying QPWS had started the planned burn on 10 October last year, two days out from a total fire ban being declared for the Mount Windsor National Park at Lakeland.

After speaking with two property owners affected by the incident, Mr Kempton accused QPWS of giving no notice of the planned burn to neighbouring landholders, and not having adequate fire breaks, a fire management plan, or the adequate resources to fight the fire in the event of escape.

The Department of Environment, Science and Innovation (DESI) denies this, saying that all neighbouring landowners were advised eight days before the planned burn.

Mr Kempton says when the planned burn became a wildfire, it raced through several properties, destroying tens of thousands of hectares of pasture, threatening houses and infrastructure and the township of Lakeland.

The worst affected properties were “Maitland Downs” owned by the Ahlers family and “Old Maitland” owned by the Inveradi family, with both still waiting to hear of any compensation com-

ing their way.

Both properties incurred expenses to fight the fires for days on end, freight costs for fodder, and labour and stock losses totalling tens of thousands of dollars.

Tania and John Ahlers from Maitland Downs said the fire from the national park was “the biggest we have seen in the 50 years we have been on the station”.

“We have lost cattle, fencing, pasture and 6-8 years of carbon credits running into hundreds of thousands of dollars. We have had nothing from the State Government - not even an apology,” Tania said.

“It took weeks to fully control the fire, and the emotional strain was enormous and I am nervous about the upcoming fire season, as fire breaks are only effective if everyone puts them in place.”

Mary Inveradi from Old Maitland said their breeding program and pasture improvement program were “in tatters, and we have been left virtually without an income since the fire and have heard nothing from the State”.

Mr Kempton said that despite the Minister for the Environment admitting that QPWS started the fire in the national park, DESI had failed to compensate the landholders for their losses, claiming it is still investigating the fire and has referred the claim to the State’s insurers.

“The State response to this disaster has not been good enough. If I am elected on 26 October, I will act immediately

26 OCTOBER

to see these claims are dealt with in a timely manner,” he said.

A spokesperson from DESI said the Lakeland Downs “complex of bushfires was a consequence of multiple sources of fire – the planned burn was only one of several known ignition sources”.

“We have continued to work with affected neighbours to resolve the matter. This includes sharing information about our established procedure for compensating landowners where appropriate,” the spokesperson said.

“The department has clear processes for reviewing planned burns and bushfires. Any breach of containment lines is treated very seriously, and this fire was the subject of a review which is now complete.”

The department also says when the fire escaped containment lines, the Queensland Fire and Emergency Services stepped in and requested QPWS crews to assist with property protection.

Mr Kempton said the LNP’s plan to boost national park management through its “More Rangers, Better Neighbours Program”, would also deliver a new specialist fire strike force, with 30 dedicated fire rangers to coordinate QPWS fire management.

“The LNP’s commitment will safeguard properties and our parks by ensuring fire breaks are sufficiently maintained and working collaboratively with neighbouring landholders and the rural fire service,” he said.

The burned landscape after the fire was extiguished.

MAREEBA

YOU ARE INVITED!

IT'S OUR 80TH BIRTHDAY MAREEBA INTERNATIONAL CLUB 2 NOVEMBER 2024 6.30PM

Special Guests

Live music & Entertainment!

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*This service travels via Caravonica, Trinity Bay High and TAFE, school days only.

For further information on any of these services please visit:

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The Express, Wednesday October 9 2024 PAGE 11

ITALIAN PARMESAN SELL $23.99 KG BORGO SALAMI

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Festival of the Forest Ravenshoe

2023 Torimba queen Clairice Lucey with the grand champion exhibit at the Festival of the Forest display - nested tables entered by Phil Griffiths.

Long time committee member Robert Bewick with a beautiful timber creation.

2024 Torimba queen entrants Maryann Defaveri and Jewel McPherson at the event.

Health Week QldQld Mental Health Week Qld Mental Health Week QldMental Mental Health We Mareeba Mental Health Mareeba Mental Health Mareeba Mental Health Mareeba Mental Health Mareeba Mental Health Champions Network Qld Mental Health Week Qld Mental Health Week Qld Mental Health Week Qld Mental Health Week Join us for a cause Qld Mental Health Week ADVERTORIAL

that really matters Walk and Connect for Wellness – Mareeba Mental Health Champions Date: Saturday 26th October 2024 Time: 6:30 am for 7 am start Location: New Playground Bicentennial Lakes on Mason St WHY should you be there? As part of, although a little later than, Queensland Mental Health Week, we are again hosting a walk for Mental Health awareness. This year we are featuring Farm Angels, previously Drought Angels. It is a charity for rural Australia, supporting Aussie farmers and rural communities with meaningful, and personalised assistance. $35 can help Farm Angels connect with farmers over the phone to provide emotional support and a listening ear.

Who are the Mareeba Mental Health Champions: A dedicated group of individuals working under the umbrella of the Black Cockatoo Foundation. The foundation was launched in honour of Dr. Mark Bestmann. The foundation is for the improvement of the health and well-being of the Mareeba community, through health promotion activities with a major focus on mental illness and suicide prevention.

What to expect: • 15 mins gentle pre-walk stretch with Adrienne Smillie • A 3 km walk around the streets of

JOIN US AND

Champions Network Champions Network Champions Network Champions Mareeba Mental Health Mareeba Mental Health Network Mareeba Mental Health Mareeba Mental Health Mareeba Mental Health Champions Network Champions Network Champions Network Champions Network Champions Network

walk

Champions Network Thursday 12th October 202 12th October 2023 Thursday Thursday 12th October 2023 Thursday 12th October 20 SATURDAY 26TH OCTOBER, 2024 Thursday 12th October 2023 Thursday 12th October 2023 Thursday 12th October 2023 Thursday 12th October 2023

Mareeba, starting and returning to the new playground at Bicentennial Lakes Mason Sreet • A community of support and Register online: online: Register online:Register Register online: understanding, awareness, and fundraise.lifeline.org.au/fundraisers/mareeba-mental-health-walk fundraise.lifeline.org.au/fundraisers/mareeba-mental-health-walk New playground area Bicentennial Lakes fundraise.lifeline.org.au/fundraisers/mareeba-mental-health-walk fundraise.lifeline.org.au/fundraisers/mareeba-mental-health-w connection or or or or • Inspirational stories of resilience on Mason Street Mareeba Register online: Register online: Register online: Register online: Register at 5.30am forstart afor 6am startstart Register at 5.30am for a 6am Register at 5.30am for a 6am start Register at 5.30am a 6am and hope – speakers Dr Nathan fundraise.lifeline.org.au/fundraisers/mareeba-mental-health-walk fundraise.lifeline.org.au/fundraisers/mareeba-mental-health-walk fundraise.lifeline.org.au/fundraisers/mareeba-mental-health-walk fundraise.lifeline.org.au/fundraisers/mareeba-mental-health-walk Walmsley and others or or or or • A time for reflection fundraise.lifeline.org.au/fundraisers/mareeba-mental-health-walk Register at a5.30am for astart 6am Register at 5.30am forstart a 6am start Register at 5.30am for 6am start Register at 5.30am for a 6am • Information on resources for menor tal health Register at 5.30am for a 6am start • Light breakfast provided GUEST STRETCH & BREAKFAST REFLECTION Register online: • Kofi Shack mobile van will be RS THE PARK STROLL IN SPEAKE TIME (ALL ABILITIES) fundraise.lifeline.org.au/fundraisers/mareeba-mental-health-walk available to purchase hot and iced Stretch andand Stroll (All(All Abilities) Stretch and Stroll (All Abilities) Stretch and Stroll (All Abilities) Stretch Stroll Abilities) or coffee and chocolate Guest Speakers Guest Speakers Guest Speakers Guest Speakers • BYO water, sunscreen, and hat Register at 5.30am for a 6am start Re ß ection Time Re ß ection Time Re ß ection Time Re ß ection Time andAbilities) Stroll (All Abilities) and Stroll (All Abilities) • All welcome Stretch andStretch Stroll (All Stretch and Stretch Stroll (All Abilities) Breakfast Breakfast Breakfast Breakfast • It is a free event however, we GuestGuest Guest Speakers Guest Speakers Speakers Speakers invite you to donate to www.

Re ß ection Time Time Re ß ection ection Time Re ß ection Time farmangels.org.au. A cash-only Breakfast Breakfast Breakfast (no receipt issued) box will also Breakfast be available on the day for those without website access.

Stretch and Stroll (All Abilities) Spread the Word: Please share this event with your friends and famGuest Speakers Thanks all sponsors Thanks toThanks all oftoour sponsors Thanks to all of our sponsors toof allour of our sponsors ily to help us continue to create a Re ß ection Time strong supportive community.

Breakfast Together, we can make a differThanks to all our sponsors Thanks all of our sponsors Thanks to all of all our Thanks to ofsponsors ourofto sponsors ence!

Contact information: message us on our Facebook page https:// www.facebook.com/MareebaMentalHealthChampionsNetwork

Thursday 12th October 2023

Register online: – 6.30AM MEET FOR 7AM WALK – Arnold Park, Arnold Park, Arnold Park, Arnold Park,

or or Thursday 12th or 2023 or October

171-179 Walsh St,St, Mareeba 171-179 Walsh St, Mareeba 171-179 Walsh St, Mareeba 171-179 Walsh Mareeb Arnold Park, Arnold Park, Arnold Park, Arnold Park, or or or or 171-179 Walsh St,Park, Mareeba 171-179 Walsh St, Mareeba Arnold 171-179 Walsh St, St, Mareeba 171-179 Walsh Mareeba or

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The Express, Wednesday October 9 2024 PAGE 15

Cup celebrates much more than football

By ANDREE STEPHENS

Getting ready to rumble - Louie Serafini (left) from the Mareeba team, Fantin Cup coordinator Sandro Soncin and Adrian Schincariol from the Dimbulah team.

OLD rivalries, generational traditions, and a celebration of the Italian migrant community will all play out at the second Fantin Cup football match to be held in Dimbulah next month.

The Cup was first run last year and hatched between the Dimbulah and Mareeba football communities. It drew about 450-500 spectators, ending with quite a party.

“The concept is to reflect on and pay tribute to a generation of battlers,” Mareeba local Sandro Soncin said.

It was borne out of the Italian Festival, he said, which mostly focuses on Mareeba and Cairns. The Fantin Cup was a way of “bringing in” the Dimbulah Italian community.

The Cup is named after Bruno Fantin, a man who “dedicated his whole life” to the Dimbulah Football Club and was president for many years.

“Bruno represents those battlers,” Sandro said.

“The early European migrants, many of whom were Italian, not only built the club but built their family and community around it. You have to realise – Dimbulah was nuts about football.”

The club, built in the mid-1950s, was also highly successful, twice winning the Crad

Evans Cup – the longest-running cup in Queensland.

Mareeba, it has to be noted, won the cup before Dimbulah.

“Which brings us to rivalry,” Sandro said with a smile.

“Oh yes, they are fierce, fierce rivals.

“It’s hard core.”

Matches will be played on 2 November at Bruno Park in Dimbulah, with the first match at 5pm featuring the under 45s, the second match between the “little ones”, and the main game for the over 45s at 7pm.

“That’s when we turn on the lights,” Sandro said.

“There’s been no night games at the field for about five years.”

“There’s something very special about going to see the game under lights,” Sandro said.

“It’s a bit ghostly actually.”

To add to that sense of the past, many of the players in next month’s Cup Day have family who played in the heyday senior teams.

The day will be family friendly, with food and drinks provided, and evening entertainment by Dimbulah singer Shandell Hilditch.

“The party starts when she starts, basically,” Sandro concluded.

• Next week: Generations take to the field.

Players for both teams who lined up for the event last year.

‘The early Italian migrants not only built the club but built their family and community around it.’

– Sandro Soncin

LOCAL LEGENDS FOOTBALL MATCH

IT’S ON AGAIN IN 2024!

ULAH TEAM

THE 2023 DIMB

THE

THE 2023 MAREE

BA TEAM

FANT FAN T IN CUP

DIMBULAH vs MAREEBA

Saturday November 2nd @ Bruno’s Park, Dimbulah 5PM: Young Legends Under 45s 6PM: Little Legends (Under 8/9) 7PM: Dinosaur Legends Over 45s 9PM: Live Music: Shandell

LIVE FOOTBALL ACTION • FOOD • BAR • RAFFLES • LIVE ENTERTAINMENT PAGE 16 The Express, Wednesday October 9 2024

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

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The Express, Wednesday October 9 2024 PAGE 17

ENTERTAINMENT

Festival fun at Ravenshoe IT’S all happening in Ravenshoe this weekend as the Torimba Festival enters its second big weekend.

The festival goes until 19 October, and this Saturday is one of the highlights, with the annual Mardi Gras street parade to add colour and fun to Grigg Street from 3pm.

Activities kick off at 2pm with the woodchops held beside the Club Hotel, lots of market stalls, arts and crafts, food stalls and loads of fun for the kids with a jumping castle, chair swings and a merry-go-round as well as Melville’s duck racing and animal farm.

Melanie Dyer will be bringing her farm girl roots and dynamic stagecraft to Savannah in the Round this weekend.

The Torimba “A Moment in Time” street parade starts at 3pm, followed by a “lolly explosion”, old fashioned games, a truck pull and fireworks to end the night.

The Festival of the Forest is also on display, with a wide variety of woodcraft, furniture, sculpture and more on show at the Festival Hall.

The crowning of this year’s Torimba Festival queen will take place on 19 October at the ball, with tickets on sale now through the Central Servo.

For more information visit www.torimbafestival.com.au

Golden Guitar Award winner Max Jackson will be showcasing her talent at Mareeba’s country music festival.

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PAGE 18 The Express, Wednesday October 9 2024

Aussie girls taking on the country world TWO up-and-coming Aussie female artists, with a plethora of awards between the two, will be making their way to Mareeba this week to showcase the talent that has earnt them notoriety both nationally and internationally.

Melanie Dyer and Max Jackson are solo artists both from small rural towns in New South Wales and in the recent years have gained considerable traction in the Australian country music industry, eventually leading them to find success in the “country music capital of the world”, the United States.

Melanie Dyer is from a small, rural town called Mount Russel in NSW that has a population number in the low hundreds. She lives and breathes country music and began telling her stories through song at age twelve.

Her autobiographical song, Life on the Land, was chosen as the anthem of the National Drought Appeal.

Ever since, she has always put her truth, life and whole self into her music, from the “cheeky infatuation” of the pop-infused Memphis T-Shirt, a multi-million streaming hit, to the stunning honesty of her recent 2023 single, Fences, which bares the wisdom of her young heart.

Melanie’s authentic blend of her farm girl roots with dynamic stagecraft and hooky contemporary songwriting has won her performance slots at the biggest country festivals around the world, from CMA Fest in Nashville to CMC Rocks in Australia, and many more.

Numerous trips to Nashville have seen her embraced by the “Music City” songwriting community, leading to collaborations on some of her most popular songs and a duet with rising US country star Troy Cartwright.

After an action-packed 2023, which saw her rocking festival stages around Australia, return-

ing to the US once again to perform and write, and releasing three hit standalone singles, Melanie has set the stage for her biggest year yet in 2024.

Max Jackson also came from humble beginnings in the small country town of Coonamble in NSW and by the age of five years old Max had been given her first guitar and was starting to sing songs she was either writing or learning for the family.

Within the last two years Max has gone on to win Australia’s biggest country music competition, the Toyota Star Maker, has played at national and international country music festivals and received a Golden Guitar Award for New Talent of the Year for 2024.

In 2023, the culmination of all her efforts came together. She not only signed with the prestigious Stephen White Management (Lee Kernaghan, The Wolfe Brothers), she also secured a deal with ABC Music and released her first single with the label, Little More Country.

That single peaked at Number One on the Countrytown National Airplay Charts and held the top spot for two consecutive weeks.

Towards the end of 2023, Max was named the official Ambassador for the Tamworth Music Festival and also secured two Golden Guitar nominations at the Australian Country Music Awards for Best Female Artist and New Talent, winning Best New Talent.

Melanie Dyer will be playing at 11am on Saturday under the Big Top Music Hall, this will be followed Max Jackson at 12.15pm, also under the Big Top Music Hall.

For three unforgettable days of country music, camping, glamping and entertainment hosted at Kerribee Park from 11-13 October, visit www.savannahintheround.com.au

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

MAREEBA, CAIRNS HINTERLAND r 2024 e b o t c O 11-13

Friday, 11 October 2024

Saturday, 12 October 2024

THE CAPE STAGE 4.15pm 4.40pm 6.00pm 7.20pm 8.55pm 10.30pm

Welcome to the Cape Kairos Kin The Wolfe Brothers Troy Cassar-Daley Lee Kernaghan Tyler Hubbard The Living End

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Roadtrippers Graeme Connors Sheppard Hindley Street Country Club Jon Stevens

BIG TOP MUSIC HALL 8.30am 10.00am 11.15am 12.30pm 1.45pm

Line Dancing Hillbilly Goats The Viper Creek Band Bondi Cigars Glenn Shorrock & Brian Cadd

8.30am 9.45am 11.00am 12.15pm 1.30pm

Line Dancing Route 33 Melanie Dyer Max Jackson Lane Pittman

8.30am 9.45am 11.00am 12.15pm 1.45pm

Line Dancing Chris Matthews Caitlyn Shadbolt Mahalia Barnes & the Soulmates Vika and Linda

3.15pm

Brooke McClymont & Adam Eckersley

2.40pm

Great Northern Bullriding Series

3.15pm

Chocolate Starfish

11.00pm

Dee Jaye Bux to close

11.00pm

Dee Jaye Bux to close

Walkamin Country Music Club Showcase Julian James Bondi Cigars Eddie Skiba Hillbilly Goats 19-Twenty

8.00am 10.15am 11.30am 12.45pm 2.00pm 3.15pm

Walkamin Country Music Club Showcase Jeremy Fletcher Joan and the Giants Route 33 Eddie Skiba JC Stylles Boogaloo 3

Roadtrippers

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Chris Matthews Tim Woodz and the Dirty Shoes Roshani Brooke Schubert Darlinghurst

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11.45pm

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THE ROLLING BACKYARD STAGE 9.00am

Workshop Julian James Stagecraft and Vocal

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Workshop Chris Matthews Never Practise

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Workshop Tim Woodz Song writing

10.00am 11.15am 12.30pm 1.45pm 3.00pm

Backyard Sessions Jeremy Fletcher Blue Reed Julian James Katie Richards Band

10.00am 11.15am 12.30pm 1.45pm 3.00pm

Backyard Sessions Katie Richards Band Kairos Kin Pelicana Joan and the Giants

10.00am 11.15am 12.30pm 1.45pm 3.00pm

Backyard Sessions Tim Woodz and the Dirty Shoes Stu Harcourt Koahlition Feat Djawarray The Brazilians

CAMPERS CONCERT - 10 OCT 4.45pm 5.15pm 6.30pm 7.45pm 9.00pm 10.30pm

Welcome to Country Chris Matthews Roshani Kairos Kin Darlinghurst Carinda Christie Band

Three days of music, camping and entertainment

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Savannah in the Round after party in the Big Top Music Hall with and live music in the Bullbar till late Friday and Saturday nights only.

* General admission tickets for Sunday only

It takes a big team!

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

The Express, Wednesday October 9 2024 PAGE 19

ON LAND the

Fertiliser prices ease, but volatility ahead PRICES for the three major fertilisers used by Australian farmers – nitrogen, phosphates and potash – have gradually eased from the highs seen in 2022, following the sharp spike in global fertiliser prices with the outbreak of the RussiaUkraine war.

And although prices remain high against historical levels, agribusiness banking specialist Rabobank expects muted global demand from across the fertiliser market to “seep into prices within the coming six months” – with the weaker demand helping to offset global supply issues and keep fertiliser prices in a tight range.

However, the bank cautions in its Semiannual Global Fertiliser Outlook report, global fertiliser markets are likely to remain volatile in the year ahead.

Report co-author RaboResearch agriculture analyst Paul Joules said fertiliser prices became extremely high, extremely quickly but have begun to slowly flatten out.

“It has been like going up by escalator, but coming down via the stairs in terms of the pace of the price correction,” he said.

Mr Joules said Australian farmers were “hugely dependent” on other countries for fertiliser supply, with very little of the chiefly-used fertilisers manufactured locally.

“International supply and demand issues have a direct impact on Australian fertiliser prices and ability to procure fertiliser,” he said.

“As a relatively small player in the global buyer market, Australia is not in a position to dictate prices.”

Mr Joules said Australian farmers could expect to be dealing with a volatile global fertiliser market in the year ahead.

From an Australian purchasing perspective, there is a positive outlook for the Australian dollar, he said. The bank anticipates the exchange rate between the Australian dollar and the US dollar to rise to 0.72 over the next 12 months.

“If this materialises, it will make fertiliser purchase more affordable,” he said.

“The strength of the Australian dollar and waning global demand point towards lower prices for Australian farmers. However, ongoing global supply-side issues for nitrogen and phosphate fertilisers will likely limit downside potential.”

There was no clear direction for global nitrogen prices, the Rabobank report said. The urea (a source of nitrogen) market lacks a clear short-term direction, leading to potential overreactions in prices, either upwards or downward.

“We should continue to expect price volatility, a common pattern in the nitrogen market,” Mr Joules said.

The report said there was a clear shift in global phosphate market dynamics, ultimately leading to a reduction in supply.

“As the market struggles to adjust to lower supply, phosphate prices are likely to remain above the historical average, impairing demand.

A lack of clear strategies from the top three exporters – China, the US and Morocco – is playing an important role in this tight supply situation,” the report stated.

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Jane Slattery will be joining the Haggerty’s and will also present a separate workshop on 22 October.

Ian and Di Haggerty will be sharing their knowledge at a workshop on 19 October in Tinaroo.

Farming for the future

WORLD famous Aussie farmers, Ian and Di Haggerty are coming to town with Jane Slattery to present the innovative methods they have cultivated to restore dry and harsh lands into a thriving ecosystem.

Ian and Di are from the central wheat belt in Western Australia, and they created Natural Intelligence Farming in 2001 alongside co-founder Jane Slattery.

They developed a modern and innovative approach to farming that recreates healthy soils, enabling crops to make the most of the little rain they receive.

“In 2023, we only received about 115 millimetres of rainfall for the entire season, but the land still outperformed and kept green grown year-round,” company director Matthew Haggerty said.

Ian explained that this method has been proven in harsh environments and is therefore not contained to certain landscapes and climates.

“I think the good thing about this example, is that it was a very brittle and harsh environment with very low rainfall,” Ian said.

“And if we can get the results that we’ve been getting here, this can be replicated all over the world.

“Our system isn’t about trying to direct a natural system, we’re just participants of it and are very grateful for that,” Di added.

Natural Intelligence Farming, as the Haggerty’s have coined it, harnesses the dynamic, natural relationships that exist between all organisms in ecosystems, particularly the soil.

These relationships are highly complex and versatile. They involve mutually beneficial interactions between soil, plant seed and roots, microorganisms and the ruminants that feed on the plants, cycling nutrients and microbes back to the soil.

The Haggerty’s have been able to integrate natural intelligence with modern farming methods to create regenerative agricultural ecosystems that produce optimal food, fibre and beverage products.

“It’s well known that Australian soils are some of the oldest in the world, so some of the most leeched from the weathering that’s been going on for millions of years.

“And it’s actually tillage and similar processes that disrupt the microbes in the soil,” Di said.

“Microbe loss has been caused by synthetic fertilisers and chemicals as well,” Ian added.

“With Natural Intelligence Farming, what we’re trying to do is reinvigorate and enable those native microbes that have been here for millions of years to regenerate.”

At their property in Western Australia, the Haggerty’s have planned to restore 30% of the landscape back to natural bushlands and diverse fodder shrub.

This then gives the livestock the opportunity to interact with the natural environment to transfer microbes and nutrients from the bushland out into the paddocks, to help with the cycling process and to optimise animal health.

“It serves a couple of purposes, it helps rebuild the soil health but gives diversity to the livestock and what they can select to eat to optimise their health and their gut microbe biome,” Di said.

“They can come through these pastures and select what they need very quickly with only a few mouthfuls and get all their mineral uptake,” Ian said.

The workshop will take place on 19 October from 8.30am-5pm at Tinaroo Lake Resort and will be delivered by all three co-founders of Natural Intelligence Farming.

Ticket bookings are required for this event, to book search Natural Intelligence Farming on www. eventbrite.com.au Jane will also be doing a separate “Cultivating Inner Harmony and Environmental Stewardship” workshop on 22 October, to book email workshopnif@ gmail.com

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54” deck

60” deck

12,999

$

13,695

$

$

INC GST

Kawasaki 999cc (38.5hp) EFI

14,295

INC GST

61” deck

INC GST

72” deck

27,775

28,380

$

$

INC GST

INC GST

OUTLAW RENEGADE

$

ZT AVENGER

MAVERICK

Kohler 725cc (25hp) 54” deck 60” deck

Kohler 747cc (25hp) 54” deck 60” deck

10,699 INC GST

11,250

$

INC GST

16,500

$

INC GST

Perkins 1100cc Diesel (24.7hp) 61” deck $

16,998

$

36,800 INC GST

INC GST

*Does not include freight & pre-delivery charges.. Pricing valid until 31.12.2024 or while stocks last. Images for illustration purposes only, specifications subject to change without notice.

MEET YOUR LOCAL BAD BOY MOWERS DEALER OFFICE: 07 4095 4455 SALES: 0488 043 906 22-24 Lawson St, Tolga, QLD, 4882 www.nqagser vices.com.au

PAGE 20 The Express, Wednesday October 9 2024

WE SUPPLY: • Fertiliser • Chemicals • Soil Analysis • Great Advice 26 Reynolds Street, Mareeba Phone: 4092 2711 40-46 Eclipse Drive, Atherton Phone: 4091 3100

TABLELAND MILL CRUSHING STATISTICS WEEK ENDING 29/09/2024 2024 Crop Estimate: 806,000 Tonnes Total For Week: 26,652 Tonnes Total Cane Crushed To Date: 535,326 Tonnes Percentage Crushed: 66.42% CCS For Week: 14.39 CCS Average To Date: 13.81

SOUTH JOHNSTONE MILL CRUSHING STATISTICS WEEK ENDING 29/09/2024 2024 Crop Estimate: 1,137,000 Tonnes Total For Week: 71,415 Tonnes Total Cane Crushed To Date: 624,127 Tonnes Percentage Crushed: 54.89% CCS For Week: 12.19 CCS Average To Date: 12.06 www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

ON LAND the

Rosevale’s David Greenup with Tallangalook principals Nick and Alison Trompf and their purchases at the 68th annual Rosevale bull sale. Photo: Brad Cooper, Santa Gertrudis Australia.

Stud buys up to boost breeding program AN Atherton Tablelands beef cattle stud has bolstered its breeding program by securing two elite young sires at Australia’s longest-running on-property bull sale.

Tallangalook Shorthorns and Santa Gertrudis, based at Barrine and Tarzali, invested $48,000 at the 68th annual Rosevale Santa Gertrudis at Jandowae near Dalby.

Tallangalook bought Rosevale Uptown U152 for $22,000 and Rosevale United U474 for $26,000 with an eye towards furthering the ongoing growth of the Santa Gertrudis breed in Far North Queensland.

“Since we added Santas to our stud program six years ago we’ve seen a big rise in bull sales and when calves from these two come through, they will add to that with their slick skin really suited to the tropics,” stud principal Nick Trompf said.

“They also met our non-negotiable key criteria of exceptional fertility, sound feet and overall structure and ultra-quiet temperament.

“A valuable bonus is both are homozygous poll (PP) which means they will never sire horned calves.

“We’ve noticed a marked increase in demand from our clients for PP bulls with two of our young homozygous poll bulls selling recently to a top of $15,000 to a repeat buyer from Mt Surprise.”

Tallangalook has based its Santa Gertrudis stud on females and bulls from Rosevale, because of the latter’s relentless focus on fertility and deep data analysis through performance recording and genomics testing.

“David Greenup from Rosevale has been dedicated to performance recording for more than 30 years, with that extensive data - known as Estimated Breeding Values (EBVs) - and more recently genomics analysis ensuring far greater certainty in terms of future progeny,” Mr Trompf said.

“Both the bulls we bought possess exceptional EBVs. Uptown is in the top 10% for all three of the Santa Gertrudis breed indexes - Terminal $Index, Breeding Production $Index and Fertility Plus $Index - while United is top 15% for Terminal, top 5% for Breeding Production and top 10% for Fertility Plus.”

The Rosevale sale also provided another significant highlight for Tallangalook’s leading sire Greenup Noble Q206, which is 50/50 owned by Rosevale and Tallangalook.

A Noble son brought the second top price of the Rosevale sale at $28,000 while seven sons sold for an average of $15,000. This followed a Noble son bringing the $37,500 top price at the 2023 Rosevale sale.

Tallangalook has more than 20 Noble sons nearing weaning age which will be ready for sale next year.

Making her debut appearance at a cattle sale with Alison Trompf was first granddaughter, four-week-old Addie Mitchell.

Walkamin based specialising in Aerial: • Spraying • Spreading • Agricultural Mapping

GIVING YOU PRECISE APPLICATION ON YOUR CROPS WHEN YOU NEED IT! JAKE RASMUSSEN Mobile: 0458 161 535 Email: contact@advanceddroning.com.au Web: www.advanceddroning.com.au ReOC: 8298

Forum to flesh out catchment challenges WHAT can growers expect from long-term changes to regional rainfall?

Can renewable energy projects cause more environmental harm than good?

How much will the water cost from the proposed Lakeland Irrigation Scheme? And, are you ready to start running your farm machinery on pyrolised banana bags?

These are just some of the subjects that will be discussed at the upcoming Mitchell River Forum, set for 9.30am to 1.30pm on Friday 11 October at the Dimbulah Community Hall.

The event is hosted by the Mitchell River Watershed Management Group, one of Australia’s most enduring landcare organisations.

The group’s members include land managers, researchers, conservationists, and traditional owners, all committed to the vision of healthy country and vibrant communities across our region.

The forum is supported by Gulf Savannah NRM and the Cairns and Far North Environment Centre. Trevor Meldrum, our 2024 Queensland Biosecurity Mate, will be on hand for an update.

Mitchell River chair Fiona Barron has put out a challenge for the forum.

“We’re all too aware of the doom and gloom they show us in the media, so this forum is a chance to sit together and talk through the opportunities and challenges right here within arm’s reach,” she said.

“Let’s see what we can do together to give our kids a healthier environment and more a sustainable economy, focussed first on our local needs for security and resilience.”

The event is open to the public. A lunch will be catered by Camp 64, supported by Mt Carbine producer EQ Resources.

Anyone wishing to attend the forum should register by texting to 0407 471 565 or by going to https://bit.ly/CatchmentForum

Specialist provider of technical advice and expertise across:  Pumping  Irrigation  Filtration  All aspect of water and fluid management

www.pumpingirrigation.com.au Mareeba (07) 4092 1622 8 Reynolds Street, MAREEBA Q.4880 Serving Mareeba, Far North QLD, Northern Territory & Torres Strait since 1978.

R

mal,indra /se

Pumping Irrigation & Machinery Services. 8 Reynolds Street. Mareeba I PH: (07) 4092 1622

*Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd is the No.1 Tractor company in the world by volume. Photographs may show overseas models or illustrate non-standard equipment. Please read your Mahindra Tractor manual carefully prior to operation. #Prices are Ex Brisbane and excludes spark arrestor (where applicable),Freight & Pre-Delivery, includes GST. Promotional pricing to October 31• 2D24 or while stocks last. All items may not be available at all Dealers. Please see your local authorised Mahindra Ag dealer for full Warranty terms and conditions, while stocks last. Freight surcharge may apply. Please contact local Mahindra dealer for final delivered price.

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

The Express, Wednesday October 9 2024 PAGE 21

Celebrating 80 years

THANK YOU

Celebrating 80 years

Thanks to your support $22,450.00 was raised for Mareeba Friends of the Hospital Foundation, Down Syndrome Queensland and Black Cockatoo Foundation at our Gala Dinner on 13th September 2024.

MAJOR DINNER SPONSOR

PLATINUM SPONSORS Mareeba & Dimbulah Financial Services Ltd Blenners Transport Wesfarmers Federation Insurance Moro Auto Repairs The Express Cynthia Lui MP - Member for Cook Exodas Transport Lindsay Transport Lindsay Rural Followmont Transport Premier Fresh Australia Toyota Material Handling Australia Ltd

GOLD SPONSORS SILVER SPONSORS JE Tipper TGT Sunwater FNQ Filter & Parts Quinto Ag Supplies Oji Fibre Solutions Label Press Australia

Mareeba Mazda Mitsubishi Ergon Energy Elders Insurance Tablelands Marano’s Fuel

BRONZE SPONSORS Burratronics Shane Knuth MP - Member for Hill Golden Drop Winery

THANK YOU TO THE GROWERS WHO DONATED PRODUCE FOR THE AUCTION

Galati Family - Grapefruit & Mardarin, Makse & Denise Srhoj - Butternut and Jarradale Pumpkin, Con & Carla Iacutone - Limes, Howe Family - Bananas, Vince & Connie Mete - Capsicum & Kent Pumpkin, Lecker Farming Red Papaya, Torrisi Family - Basil, Scurr Family - Pineapples, Daintree Fresh - Seedless Watermelons & Rockmelons, Rocky Creek Orchards - Avocados, Costa Group - Blueberries, David Nix - Potatoes, Romeo’s Grapes, Ugo Curcio - Sweet Potatoes and Zucchini, Mark Letcher - Passionfruit, John Edwards - Potatoes & Cabbage, Owen Jonsson - Potatoes, Tableland to Tabletop - Avocados, Eggplant & Potatoes, Exodas Transport - 10 pallets to Brisbane and ECO Pallets for 3 picking bins.

THANK YOU TO THE WINNING AUCTION BIDDERS Nutrien Ag Solutions, Rotary Club of Mareeba, David Kempton, EE Muir, Followmont Transport, Lindsay Australia, Exodas Transport, TGT, Quinto Ag Supplies, Mareeba & Dimbulah Financials Services, Lecker Farming, Planfarm, Canegrowers, Savannah in the Round, Galati Farming, JE Tipper

ASSOCIATION SPONSORS

PAGE 22 The Express, Wednesday October 9 2024

PARTNER

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

PROPERTY

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

Space and privacy in tranquil oasis

WELCOME to your tranquil oasis! Perfectly blends comfort and sustainability, offering a lifestyle that embraces both relaxation and outdoor living.

Step inside to discover an inviting interior with a mix of tiled & polished concrete flooring, adding a touch of modern elegance. In the hall a cozy fireplace serves as a central feature.

The kitchen is generously sized, including plenty of

bench space for meal preparation and cooking with the family. It is also equipped with a gas stove and large double sink. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner or enjoying a quiet breakfast, this kitchen offers a functional space to meet your needs.

Timber sliding barn doors add a touch of rustic charm while providing flexible access to the bedrooms and living spaces. The spacious main

suite is a true retreat, featuring a beautifully updated ensuite with modern fixtures and finishes, walk in robe & stunning polished concrete flooring.

The additional bathroom is equally well-appointed.

Outside, you’ll find an expansive deck that invites you to entertain family and friends or simply unwind amidst the peaceful surroundings. Overlooking a beautifully landscaped yard, complete with a

seasonal creek, For those with a green thumb, this property is a dream come true. The established veggie gardens provide ample space to grow your own produce, while the charming chook pen invites the joy of collecting fresh eggs right from your backyard Additional highlights include a 2-bay garage and solar panels, enhancing the property’s appeal and ensur-

ing sustainable living without sacrificing convenience.

Situated just moments from the stunning Lake Eacham, this charming retreat is perfect for those seeking a connection with nature while enjoying Address: Price: Agent: Contact:

Diane Brennan: Principal www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

For more information contact our exclusive agent Suzey Whitby today.

88 R Russell Road, LAKE EACHAM Offers Over $780,000 EXCLUSIVE to Suzey Whitby Ray White Atherton 0438 090 306 or 40917 111

Atherton

22 Main Street, Atherton Phone: 4091 7111

COUNTRY RETREAT AWAITS Malanda • 1.01 Hectares / 2.5 acres* • 5 Bedrooms, 3 bathrooms • Wrap around verandah • Self-contained granny flat • 2 Large sheds • Established gardens + orchard $799,000 Suzey Whitby 0438 090 306

modern amenities. Don’t miss your chance to call this slice of paradise your own!

PRIVATE RURAL HOME Danbulla • 80.7 Hectares / 199.5 acres • 130 Acres* improved pastures • 1 km of Severin Creek frontage • Adjoins World Heritage area • 4 Bedrooms, 2 bath, media room • Machinery shed and workshop Contact Agent Morgan Brennan 0407 730 450

MODERN FAMILY HOME Atherton • 4 Bedrooms + office • Main with ensuite and walk-in robe • Walk in pantry + two living areas • Airconditioned + fireplace • 6.5kw Solar panels + fully fenced • 8m x 7m Block shed with power Offers Over $800,000 Suzey Whitby 0438 090 306

CULTIVATION & CATTLE Tolga • 68.07 Hectares • 10 Meg groundwater licence • 4 Large machinery sheds • Portable cattle yards • Underground 6’ main line • 5 Bedroom, 2 bath & double carport $ P.O.A. Morgan Brennan 0407 730 450

www.raywhiteruralatherton.com.au The Express, Wednesday October 9 2024 PAGE 23

PROPERTY

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

Immaculate elevated home

WITH its charming street appeal and prime location in a quiet family friendly street, this well-presented property is sure to catch your eye.

Tucked back from the road in one of Atherton’s most elevated streets, this home will be a true delight to call your own.

Features Include: • Low maintenance double brick home • 4 carpeted bedrooms, 2 bedrooms with built-in robes • Master bedroom and 4th bedroom both have access to the ensuite • Recently refurbished main bathroom with a walkin shower & vanity unit.

Separate toilet.

• Air-conditioned open plan

living opening onto the veranda • Tidy kitchen with electric appliances, breakfast bar, and plenty of storage space.

• Internal laundry with a double sink & a storage cupboard • Security screens throughout home • Full length tiled veranda overlooking mountain views • 2 bay carport • 2 x Garden/storage sheds • Rainwater storage tank Address: Price: Agent:

• Solar hot water systemSave on electricity bills!

• Beautiful manicured gardens • 803m2 allotment, fenced on 3 sides Ideally located in a quiet street within a short distance to the Atherton Hospital, day care, shopping and medical facilities.

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

4 Centenary Drive, ATHERTON $509,000 EXCLUSIVE to Raquel Cunzolo Sommerset Realty 0408 983 879

Contact:

Call Trisha 0419 183 145 anytime

886 Wooroora Road, Millstream

GIVE ME A HOME AMONG THE GUMTREES

BED BATH

3

2

• Set on a serene 6 acre block located 12 kilometres from Ravenshoe • 6m x 4m shed, town water, rainwater tank, rubbish collection • Established gardens, fruit trees and a seasonal creek

OFFERS OVER $495,000 For more information Contact Janine Rielly 0407 032 422 tablelands.eldersrealestate.com.au

PAGE 24 The Express, Wednesday October 9 2024

Timber cottage in Yungaburra ideal for renovators – Must sell DISCOVER the charm of this quaint Yungaburra cottage, boasting classic features and modern comforts that make this property truly unique.

French doors, high ceilings, and stunning Cyprus pine timber floors evoke timeless character throughout the home.

Inside, there are two spacious bedrooms, each with adjoining rooms perfect for conversion into walk-in robes or an ensuite for the master.

Additionally, two single-sized bedrooms offer flexible options for use as storage, home offices, or cozy guest rooms.

The master bedroom and lounge room are equipped with air conditioning for added comfort. The open-plan kitchen, living, and dining area is the heart of the home, featuring elegant granite benchtops, country-style cabinetry, and a large walk-in pantry.

A restored cast iron combustion stove in the kitchen blends seamlessly with modern conveniences like a standalone gas cooktop and electric oven, creating a harmonious balance of old-world charm and functionality.The bathroom is wheelchair accessible,

36 Tumbare Street, Atherton

AS NEAT AS A PIN

well-appointed with luxurious Chillagoe marble tiles, and conveniently located between the two main bedrooms. It includes a large shower, toilet, and vanity, designed with accessibility and style in mind.

Outside, the home offers more to love, with a large weatherproof patio featuring a stone outdoor fireplace, perfect for entertaining year-round. The front of the home is wrapped with two timber deck patios, offering serene spots to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of Yungaburra. A carport provides car accommodation, while additional workshop and storage spaces are ideal for the home handyman.

For added sustainability, the property features a 4.3kW solar system, reducing energy costs and promoting ecofriendly living.

The property also includes a fenced parcel of vacant land

Address: Price: Agent: Contact:

at the rear, providing plenty of space for children or pets to play. Its prime location is highly desirable, with the local grocery store just 80 meters away, and all other town conveniences— such as the Historic Yungaburra Hotel, Our Place Restaurant, and the Yungaburra Post Office—within 600 meters of your doorstep.

This cottage is being sold as a “doer-upperer” and presents an exciting opportunity for those ready to put their personal stamp on this charming home. Whether you’re looking to create the perfect Airbnb, holiday retreat, or forever home, the possibilities are endless.

For more information or to book an inspection, contact exclusive agent Kaydee Chatfield at Main St Real Estate on 0417 468 941 today.

14 Roseblade Street, YUNGABURRA Offers Over $599,000 EXCLUSIVE to Kaydee Chatfield Main Street Real Estate 0417 468 941

BED BATH CAR

3

• Low maintenance, modern masonry block home • Airconditioned, open plan living, kitchen and dining • Perfect for first home buyers, downsizers, or investors

OFFERS OVER $500,000 For more information Contact Janine Rielly 0407 032 422 tablelands.eldersrealestate.com.au

2

2

A familiar face for Insurance Contact Dee Cuda for a personalised quote today 07 4095 6677 | Elders Insurance Tablelands Zoners Pty Ltd ABN 59097345474 trading as Elders Insurance Tablelands AR No. 254599 is an Authorised Representative of Elders Insurance (Underwriting Agency) Pty Limited ABN 56 138 879 026, AFSL 340965. (EIUA) . EIUA, acting under its own AFSL, is authorised to distribute Elders Insurance products on behalf of QBE Insurance (Australia) Limited (ABN 78 003 191 035, AFSL 239545), the product issuer. Visit www.eldersinsurance.com.au to consider the Product Disclosure Statement and any applicable Target Market Determination to decide if the product is right for you.

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

PROPERTY

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

A beautiful place to visit – An even better place to live

Golden triangle country opportunity Perfectly positioned between Atherton and Tolga. This 53.5acre (21.67 ha) property boasts rich volcanic soil, near-flat land, a rectangular shape, and plenty of water, offering endless potential for growing almost anything.

Key Property Features: Soil Type: Arable, fertile volcanic soil previously used to grow avocados, cane, and peanuts. The farm is currently transitioning from avocados and will be fully planted with Rhodes grass.

Water: 50-megalitre Central Zone water licence with two bores-one domestic and one irrigation bore, connected to a 6-inch main line with an autoclean filter, ensuring a steady and reliable water supply.

Irrigation: The property features an underground irrigation system with a computer-automated watering system and risers every 10m, making it ideal for orchard development, small crops, vegetables, or irrigated pastures.

Shed Infrastructure: A highclearance, 22 x 20 m shed with 3-phase power, providing plenty of storage for all machinery or use as a packing shed.

There’s also a 3.6 x 12 m workshop, kitchenette, shower, and toilet.

The residence is a spacious, quality-built masonry block home with vinyl plank flooring throughout. Key features include: Spacious air-conditioned living room opening onto the

Address: Price: Agent: Contact:

patio, with beautiful north-facing views overlooking the landscaped gardens. Family room, also air-conditioned, ideal for smoko, family gatherings, and winter entertaining with a builtin bar and cabinetry. Beautiful kitchen with quality appliances, including a double oven, 90cm gas cooktop, dishwasher, large pantry, breakfast bar, and adjoining dining room. Second lounge room, perfect as a kids’ playroom. Four air-conditioned bedrooms, all with built-in robes. Office with built-in cabinetry. Huge double garage with remote-access roller doors and separate storeroom, as well as undercover car parking for two vehicles at the front of the home. Bathroom tiled to the ceiling with a separate toilet.

Laundry with built-in cabinetry and plenty of linen storage.

Other property improvements include a 270m asphalt driveway from the road all the way to the shed, with turning and parking bays, beautiful landscaped gardens surrounding the home, and fruit trees.

Only 4.3 km from Atherton and just 1.6 km from Tolga State Primary School, this property offers the rural dream without sacrificing convenience. This is your chance to own a piece of paradise that offers both amazing farming potential and a beautiful family home.

Contact Elders agents Michelle Raso or Steve Heslin for more information.

25 Sims Road, ATHERTON $2,700,000 Michelle Raso Elders Real Estate Tablelands 0428 116 136

NORMALLY we are expected to choose. To weigh up the pros and cons. Town or rural? No need to choose as here you will find both.

6,000m² of land just minutes’ walk to the centre of Yungaburra with its iconic markets, restaurants, cafes, and Bowls Club.

Situated in a private location at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac, this low maintenance masonry block home has three bedrooms, two

bathrooms with front and rear patios. Wander through the tropical garden, your own lush and leafy haven, down to Peterson Creek with red claw and platypus at your back boundary.

Considered a once in a lifetime opportunity, this property offers astute buyers the rare chance to secure your forever home or weekender in an unrivalled location. For sale for the first time in more than 30 years.

Address: Price: Agent: Contact:

All property inspections are to be conducted by appointment with the marketing agent.

For more information, call Trisha Jackson on 4091 3955 or 0419 1833 145.

16 Bunya Street, YUNGABURRA Expressions of Interest Trisha Jackson Professionals Atherton 0419 183 145

DIMBULAH CLOSE TO TOWNSHIP PRICE: $900,000 NEG

WHAT IS YOUR PROPERTY WORTH? Call Raquel today to find out!*

• 85.33 acres • 92 meg water • Dam • 5 bedroom home • Two separate blocks • Fully fenced in good condition • Solar system • Huge packing shed • Worker accommodation • 3x water tanks

*Free No Obligation Appraisal

84 Main Street, Atherton QLD. 4883

Phone: 0408 983 879 www.sommersetrealty.com.au

DAIMIN KOCHI 0448 916 246

DREAM LOCATION, READY TO BUILD ON • Block nestled among farmland and lush rainforest • New submersible pump located in creek • Electricity connected, including creek flood lighting • High-speed NBN available for remote work • Pre-approved contemporary farmhouse designs included • Flat area ideal for home with stunning views OFFERS OVER $410,000

This property is being marketed under Expressions of Interest, consequently a price guide cannot be provided. Expressions of Interest close at 4.00pm on Friday 11th of October 2024.

ELEVATED FAMILY HOME WITH VIEWS • Located in town on a spacious 809m2 allotment • Polished timber floors throughout upper level • Airconditioned living area and master bedroom • Modern kitchen with double pantry & large stove • Downstairs area offers flexible living options • Double lock up garage & established gardens OFFERS OVER $520,000

Contact Peter on 0429 962 008

KAYDEE CHATFIELD 0417 468 941

EXQUISITE EXECUTIVE HOME • Open plan living / dining with wood fire • Spacious 2nd family room, separate office • Master bedroom with ensuite & walk-in robe • 3 additional built-in bedrooms, fenced backyard • Timber deck, 3rd outside toilet, double garage • 8m x 7m masonry block shed with power OFFERS OVER $800,000

CHARMING HOME WITH VIEWS • Red brick home with timeless appeal • Three built-in bedrooms, cozy living area • Full-length rear patio with north-facing views • Side patio for casual outdoor entertaining • Enclosed front patio for year-round use • Single garage, double shed, two storage sheds $565,000

NEVER PAY RENT AGAIN • Own your own shop • No more rent to pay • Top spot between both schools • Owner must sell • Make an offer $415,000

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

The Express, Wednesday October 9 2024 PAGE 25

PROPERTY Liveable shed on North Cedar Creek

THE current owner has set up a home hair studio which has the potential to be retrofitted to meet your own requirements.

A separate very high clearance Colorbond shed measuring 10 x 9 metres provides ample space to house caravans, motor homes, boats or any other recreational or workshop activities you enjoy.

Features include: • 2 spacious bedrooms with ceiling fans • Air conditioned open plan living • Efficient kitchen Address: Price: Agent: Contact:

Dimbulah farmland

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

Contact exclusive marketing agent Collette Rowston from Raine & Horne Atherton to arrange your private inspection.

10 Perrott Street, RAVENSHOE $399,000 EXCLUSIVE to Collette Rowston Raine & Horne Atherton 0419 733 712

Farm for sale. Potential plus - suit investors. 70 acres and 92 meg of water allocation.

This property is a bonus for someone wanting to start their own farm in a great location close to the Dimbulah township.

Consisting of two separate lots of fully fenced land, dam, five bedroom farmhouse with red tulip oak flooring. Needs Address: Price: Contact:

• Bathroom & laundry • Entry with wood heater • Double lockup garage with roller door • Multi-purpose room currently housing hair studio • Outdoor living space • 10 x 9 metre high clearance Colorbond shed • Rain water tanks • North Cedar Creek at rear • Close to all facilities

some TLC. Outdoor veranda, liveable workers accommodation, 2 storage sheds, 2 enclosed chicken coups, huge packing shed and more storage cupboards. Solar system installed, 3 huge water storage tanks, fruit trees and so much more. This property is the perfect investment and a great way to increase your portfolio.

145 Piermonte Road, DIMBULAH $900,000 Negotiable 0429 962 008

Modern home with room to grow IF you’re looking for a modern home on the sought-after eastern side of town, then look no further and welcome to 11 Sunbird Parade, Mareeba.

Situated in the Sunbird Park Estate, this rendered masonry block, four bedroom and two bathroom home is set on a 1,000 m2 allotment.

One of the most affordable modern homes on the market right now, this property serves as an excellent opportunity to grow an asset for the future.

Because of the location of the home on the land, the back yard is a blank canvas for you to add a pool, gardens or even a massive shed!

The home was built for the tropics, with split system airconditioning servicing all four bedrooms as well as the open plan living area keeping you cool in the warmer months, and tiled floors throughout for easy maintenance.

Central to the home is the open plan living area, which combines the modern kitchen, the dining space and the lounge room. The lounge also opens out onto the tiled rear patio which over looks the spacious back yard.

The home has four bedrooms which all feature splitsystem air-conditioning, ceiling fans, built-in wardrobes, and tiled floors. The main bathroom is convenient and features a separate shower and bathtub and there is also a separate toilet adjacent.

Address: Price: Agent: Contact:

At Mobile Finance Broker, “We love what we do” - helping people with their home loan!

PAGE 26 The Express, Wednesday October 9 2024

11 Sunbird Parade, MAREEBA Offers Over $550,000 EXCLUSIVE to Remo Esposito Central Realty 0401 969 473 or 4092 2232

33 Janda Street

Colle e Rowston 0419 733 712

Phone John: 0407 003 415 or Email john@mobilefinancebroker.com.au

To book a private inspection call exclusive agent Remo Esposito on 0401 969 473 or email remo@crmareeba.com

SPACIOUS HOME, BREATHTAKING VISTAS

But don’t just take our word for it, Google Mobile Finance Broker and read our reviews.

• Home Loans • Re-Financing • Investment Lending • Business Loans • Equipment Finance

The master bedroom is really spacious and features his and her built-in wardrobes, an en-suite bathroom and sliding glass door access to a small deck overlooking the back yard.

With room to grow, this property is perfect for a young family starting out or anyone wanting to add value to an already existing home on a great block of land. Investors can also enquire as it would make a great investment property.

Property features: • Four bedroom, two bathroom Modern home • Sought after Sunbird Park Estate • Built for the tropics, Airconditioning and ceiling fans throughout • Built-in wardrobes and tiled floors to all bedrooms • Modern kitchen with island bench • Open plan living area opens to tiled rear patio • Main bathroom with separate shower and bathtub • Back yard is a blank canvas, add a pool or large shed, or both • 1,000 m2 allotment with fenced rear yard Modern homes at this price point on this side of town don’t last very long so be sure to register your interest today.

• Immaculate condition, newly painted and well presented on 856m2 • 3 bedrooms, all with built-ins + 1 bathroom with 3-way access • Fully fenced yard • Beautifully landscaped garden and an outdoor entertaining area • Mountain views • Double garage

Web ID 26359063 Sale Low to Mid $500s

Atherton | 4091 1611 24 Main Street, Atherton rh.com.au/atherton www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

PROPERTY

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

Charming revovated cottage

OPEN HOME

Thursday 10 October 4.30pm to 5.30pm

Offering families the ultimate in style, space and location EMBRACE the lifestyle of this spacious, Serg Battistin built home. You’ll be impressed by the level of quality this highly desirable 3 bedroom family home offers, positioned on a premium 1,504m2 allotment, in a quiet cul de sac location only 5 minutes to town centre.

It’s packed with features including: • Approx 235m2 practical floorplan with 2.7m high ceilings and lots of louvred windows for natural airflow • Sizeable, tiled open plan living area + carpeted bedrooms for warmth • Reverse cycle split system air-conditioning throughout • Stylish central kitchen with generous island bench and Bosch stainless steel appliances including a dishwasher • Bedrooms with built-in robes - Master with ensuite & WIR Address: Price: Agent: Contact:

• Laundry/butlers pantry with built-in cabinetry • Tiled rear patio • Energy efficient Led downlights & solar hot water system • Cement pathways all round • 6m x 9m insulated colorbond shed • 1,504m2 fenced and landscaped allotment with auto irrigation • Private and quiet cul de sac location Situated in a superb position and immaculately presented inspection is highly recommended.

Open for inspection tomorrow Thursday 10th October from 4.30pm to 5.30pm.

For further information or to arrange a private inspection please contact exclusive agent Joe Torrisi on 0417 700 468 11 Eli Close, MAREEBA Offers Over $650,000 EXCLUSIVE to Joe Torrisi Joe Torrisi Real Estate 0417 700 468

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

SET on a generous 1012sqm and just a short stroll from Mareeba’s Main Street and Coles.

This quaint cottage is brimming with charm, featuring two built-in bedrooms and a renovated, easy-care bathroom. Enjoy the high ceilings, T&G walls, and stunning timber floors that flow throughout. The separate lounge area offers a cozy retreat, while the spacious kitchen boasts plenty of cupboard space and a large pantry. A perfect blend of character and modern convenience!

This beautifully renovat-

ed cottage blends timeless charm with modern conveniences, making it a must-see.

Property features: •1 012m2 allotment •2 bedrooms with built-ins •U pdated, easy-care bathroom •S pacious kitchen with ample cupboard space and a large pantry •S eparate lounge area for relaxation •H igh ceilings and T&G walls throughout •S tunning polished timber floors •S plit system air-conditioning in living area

•6 kw Solar system •L arge outdoor undercover area •S ingle car accommodation or lock up storage area •F ully fenced •T wo street access •W alking distance to Mareeba CBD Currently tenanted, this property presents an excellent opportunity to secure a Address: Price: Agent:

Contact:

classic home in a fantastic location. Don’t miss out on the chance to experience the warmth and character of this inviting cottage.

For more information or to arrange your own private inspection, contact exclusive agent Rino Gava on 0427779086 or email: rino@girgentigroup.com 86 Mason Street, MAREEBA Offers Over $389,000 EXCLUSIVE to Rino Gava Girgenti Real Estate 0427 779 086

OPEN H O ME

M A R E E B A

SOLD

MORE S G LISTINED! WANT

For local knowledge, dedicated service and exceptional results give Joe a call!

S at ur 11.0 0a day m 11:45a to m

JOETORRISI.COM.AU JOE TORRISI 0417 700 468

The Express, Wednesday October 9 2024 PAGE 27

EXPRESS O TAKE A BREAK Wednesday 9th 33° 18°

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E S X X E L I S S I M N D L L X P N N A Z S J S O C C U P A T I O N G O O H D N E O K L F W R C J D S H E I I P C M Z I E R B M H O J E S P R S S C N N I K Y Z R C A I H A H A U A I P O L U R G S V U F T S C K R T C V R I M B P A G T X N H E P S G X C E O S W M V H T K I N Q O R E A I O L P U W C U M T I R M O U H I R F M E O L C X A N N P O E U I Q R A T S T S L T H K R I T R N P L T X P L L A A I N Q E H R S Y E Q U A I N T I X L R A C S R P A T D T E T T S N D S K E L E T O N H C D E N X A I O E D N C S S E N K A E W K G E P T O P Y I E E C N E R E F F I D A C O I N S G T X X M E I W P G X F R R X S O Z H I C C U P H K I N S I S T T N E N N B Z H S I R U O L F R A N K J G O V E R C H A R G E C R I T I C I S M Admiration

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ACROSS: 1. A formal agreement between individuals or parties. (4) 3. An individual article or unit, especially one that is part of a list, collection, or set. (4) 6. Be appropriate for; suit. (5) 10. To describe or express the important facts or characteristics about something or someone. (7,2) 11. A sudden large increase in something that has previously been steady. (5) 12. Remove or take out, especially by effort or force. (7) 13. A low protective wall along the edge of a roof, bridge, or balcony. (7) 14. Bite at or nibble something persistently. (4) 16. Fighting between armed forces. (6) 18. First and third person singular past of be. (3) 21. A quick, sharp knock or blow. (3) 22. Tense, nervous, or irritable. (2,4) 23. A colourless crystalline compound which is the main nitrogenous breakdown product of protein metabolism in mammals. (4)

Time m 0115 0.52 0719 2.63 1314 0.45 1940 3.14

25. Somewhat boring, lacking excitement, interest. (7) 27. Officially agree to or accept as satisfactory. (7) 29. The former basic monetary unit of the country now known as the Democratic Republic of Congo. (5) 30. A piece of cloth that hangs down from around the waist. (9) 31. A country in west Africa (5) 32. A procedure intended to establish the quality, performance, or reliability of something, especially before it is taken into widespread use. (4) 33. A journey or excursion, especially for pleasure. (4) DOWN: 1. A traveller on a public or private conveyance other than the driver, pilot, or crew. (9) 2. A celestial object consisting of a nucleus of ice and dust. (5) 4. A rope or wire stretched tightly high above the ground, on which acrobats perform feats of balancing.

(9) 5. Wipe liquid away from a surface with something absorbent. (3,2) 6. An established and usually guaranteed rate of pay per unit of time. (4,4) 7. The destructive capacity of guns, missiles, or a military force. (9) 8. The chirp of a small or young bird. (5) 9. A Eurasian shrub or small tree of the olive family, which has fragrant violet, pink, or white blossom. (5) 15. Causing shock or dismay; horrific. (9) 17. A woman who has no home and carries everything that she owns around with her in bag. (3,6) 19. A vehicle used for space travel. (9) 20. Assert one’s will over another in an arrogant way. (8) 24. A detailed description of how something should be or has been done, made, etc. (5) 25. A group or set of twelve. (5) 26. A member of a class of serfs in ancient Sparta, intermediate in status between slaves and citizens. (5) 28. A distinctive smell, especially an unpleasant one. (5)

WEEKLY HOROSCOPES Mar 21 - Apr 19 Apr 20 - May 20 May 21 - Jun 20

2 7 6

Puzzle Solutions P A C T I T E M B E F I T O L I O A I W A S U R G E S U M M I N G U P E L H U E E E S P A R A P E T E X T R A C T C R A O N G N A W C O M B A T W A S P D P A E E P E O N E D G E U R E A R A P A M L S C A P P R O V E D U L L I S H L N E D E D S O L O I N C L O T H Z A I R E N E O E S U I E T E S T T R I P N I G E R

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PAGE 28 The Express, Wednesday October 9 2024

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Every row must contain one of each digit.

EASY

Tuesday 15th 30° 18°

CROSSWORD

WORD SEARCH

SUDOKU

Monday 14th 32° 16°

Do something for the community today, Aries, and really consider how your talents and skills can best be put to work. Consider volunteering at a school or library.

Donate blood or help the elderly.

Whatever you do, smile, it will go a long way.

If you’re having trouble tackling a giant problem, Taurus, don’t get discouraged or overwhelmed. They key for you is to break things down into smaller chunks, analyse them, and figure out their role within the greater whole.

It may seem like everyone around you is happy and getting what they want while you’re stuck in the trenches, Gemini. Don’t compare yourself to other people and make judgments based on outside appearances.

Jun 21 - Jul 22

Jul 23 - Aug 22

Aug 23 -Sep 22

Imagination and fantasy play a big part in your thinking today, Cancer, and you shouldn’t hesitate to embrace this frame of mind. There’s a great deal of power to be drawn from your sense of freedom to explore and dream. Your thinking is more of a higher consciousness now.

Engage more of your rational mind today, Leo. If your mind continues on its track into a fantasy world, you might consider enlisting the help of people who can help discipline you. The feeling of the day is likely to be that the mind is willing, but the flesh is weak.

Suppose you were someone else for a day, Virgo. How would it feel to be treated the way you normally treat other people? This is a good time to put yourself in someone else’s shoes and experience life through their eyes.

Sep 23 - Oct 22 Today your thoughts may turn to fashion and the different ways in which you can improve your wardrobe. Don’t be afraid to create a look that reflects your true inner spirit. Deck yourself in external splendour to illustrate the many different colours that you carry.

Oct 23 - Nov 21

The amazing thing about your nature is that, like a good politician, you have just the right tone of voice and catch phrase for every situation. You can put on your smile and charm and talk your way out of just about any pickle you get into.

Dec 22 - Jan 19

Jan 20 - Feb 18

Your mind may wander to a fantasy land full of castles, wizards, and magic dragons today, Capricorn.

You could find that you’re putting yourself in the robes of a beautiful or handsome figure in a tall tower who’s waiting for the perfect mate to come along.

Get on the fast track and use your powerful words and creative mind to make quick decisions that are mindful yet spontaneous. If you get in a pinch today, Aquarius, don’t worry about it. Simply relax, take a deep breath, and let your intuition guide you to the right path.

Nov 22 - Dec 21 You’re apt to get the feeling that the grass is greener on the other side of the fence today, Sagittarius.

Try not to get too hung up on this.

Either make the effort to go where the landscape looks richer and more fruitful or stay where you are.

Feb 19 - Mar 20 Start the day with some vigorous yoga and then some meditation to help clear your mind, Pisces. Stretch your body and get the blood flowing through all of your limbs. Once your blood is flowing, your mind will get moving.

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4097 6208 The The Express, Wednesday September Express, Wednesday October119 2024 2024 PAGE PAGE 27 29

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• Tree Removal • Wood Chipping PROFESSIONAL William (back left) and Woody (Deo), (front left) Thing 1 • Stump Grinding • Firewood TREE SERVICE (Wyatt) and Spiderman (Byron) enjoying stop, drop and read time with principal Max Rivett.

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MAREEBA . CAIRNS . FROM CARDWELL TO BAMAGA . WEST FROM EINASLEIGH TO NORMANTON ATHERTON:

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MARCH 08, 2024

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TO T H E C AS

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– PAGE

3

| Nick Dalto n CONSTRUC TION of an $80 million luxurio us apartment tower in the centre scheduled to start of Cairns is in the first half of next year.

Cairns Region al Counc unanimously approved the il development applica tion submitted by develo per the revitalisation Alex Sekler for Cairns Post buildinof the historic g as part of 75-residential apartment projecta at its Wednesday meeting.

The 13-storey buildin g in Abbott St encom passes newspaper buildin the former g with 15 one-bedroom , 44 and 16 three-b two-bedroom ments as well edroom apartas food and drink a pool, gym, a outlet and shops.

Detailed design is expect ed to start in the third year. Mr Sekler quarter of this spent nearly $7.5m buying the as well as several Post building properties for other adjacent the residential tower.

“I am very pleased with the council’s approv ward to deliver al and look forfor the commu ing this project nity,” he said.

“The Cairns Post Residences will honour the building’s rich history while offering residen a unique blend ts of historic charm and contem al porary amen- An artist’s impression of the ities. $80m luxury apartment tower “The project encompassing per buildin the historic Cairns in the CBD will be the first a promin g, which had been mental Post building. ent part of the skyline captur” and would Picture: Hunt ing the transfo city’s boost Design building fabric for over a cen- dential living in the CBD. resi- try and breathe confide is experiencing rmation Cairns tury. nce into for She said it was on the back the city”. Deputy more residen heightened deman of designed He said the project mayor world class tial projects in d to live Hunt Design by Moller said it was exactly Brett the CBD, while would also the region.” in include and would retain Cr public spaces , such as a the building’s the city needed to provid what said it was “exactl Brett Olds Mr Sekler said landsca iconic ped e “iny what we courtya fill pillars. development” rd and retail Cairns Post Residethe proposed outlets. in the CBD, wanted”.

Cr Eden said it embraced nces project Cr Rob Pyne would mainta it counci was a Cr l’s vital Amy part of the counci abstain in tropica integrity of the the architectural sion include Eden, whose divi- encour l’s desire to urbanism design and would l voting. He said the ed from former newspa en- ment s Abbott St, told courage other developage more people - council meetin applica develo the in the tion should pers to do CBD and would living the same in the g it was “monu considered by be city’s - cash into “inject the Cr Cathy Zeiger heart. the building after the March new council indus- hoped it would be the said she not one at their 16 elections, “catalyst” the current term.last meeting of

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www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au PAGE 12 The Express, Wednesday August 28 2024

The Express, Express, Wednesday October 2024 PAGE PAGE 29 31 The The Express, Wednesday September 119 2024 Wednesday 20 March, 14 www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

CLASSIFIEDS

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Classified Deadline: 4pm every Friday CHURCH NOTICE

FOR SALE

PRESBYTERIANS meet in Mareeba for Worship Each Sunday 10am, QCWA Hall, Wilkes Street (behind Meals on Wheels).

ALL WELCOME!

SHIPPING CONTAINERS

DEATH NOTICE Jeffrey (Ratso) WILLIAMSON Jeff passed away peacefully at home on Monday 30th September, 2024 surrounded by his loving family.

Much loved Husband of Monique and caring Father of Baden and Madina. Forever cherished by his loving family and friends.

A private family service has been held.

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0418 773 504 BORRESEN, Nola Dell

Late of Walkamin. Passed away on the 23rd of September, 2024. Now at rest, aged 89 years.

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Will be greatly missed by all of his Family and Friends.

As per Dads request, a Memorial will be held on the 15th of October, 10.30am at The Village, 15 Cansdale Street, Yeronga.

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PUBLIC NOTICE

POSITION VACANT

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(nee Maggs) Of Yungaburra To celebrate her 100th birthday, Adelene invites family, friends and acquaintances to drop in for a cuppa at: Little Eden, 20 Gillies Range Road, Yungaburra From 1pm - 4pm Saturday 19th October

Prior to the next week’s publication.

Phone 4092 9311 to make an appointment.

Ravenshoe Primary Health Centre Monday 14th October, 2024

Phone 4097 6223 to make an appointment.

Atherton Community Health Centre Tuesday 15th October, 2024

Phone 4091 0263 to make an appointment.

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PUBLIC NOTICE

CARETAKER

Thus severing usufruct subjugation ties with the occupying corporate government of Australia in its entirety.

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

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WE’RE YOUR

VOCAL LOCAL

NOTICE OF WATER MAINS FLUSHING PROGRAM Mareeba Shire Council will begin its annual water mains flushing program on Tuesday, 8 October 2024, lasting 6-8 weeks. To minimise inconvenience to residents, work will occur during low-demand periods. This program aims to ensure clean drinking water and maintain efficient delivery by optimising flow and pressure.

PAGE 32 The Express, Wednesday October 9 2024

Four opportunities available: • Innisfail Main Clinic • Innisfail Mums and Bubs Clinic • Ravenshoe Clinic • Outreach Clinic (Serves both Tully and Babinda) Must have: • Cert III and/or Cert IV in Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Primary Health Care • C Class Drivers Licence • Current Blue Card • Registered with the Australian Health Practitioners Regulation Agency (AHPRA) or the ability to is highly desirable

Please visit our website at: www.mamuhsl.org.au Go to our careers page, download the application package and submit your completed applications to: recruitment@mamuhsl.org.au Along with your resume and cover letter.

Notice of Praecipe Diane Maree Rose© of Kuranda, Queensland, is not a voluntary transactor in commerce, and is the irrefutable Holder in Due Course of my properties and all associated copyright protected Trade Names since unrebutted lawful Reconveyance to the Land and Soil jurisdiction of Terra Australis also known as the Commonwealth of Australia Public Recording Number RPP4463900051003010044604, Proclamation Date 6 September 2024.

Experienced Caretaker Will work for rent. Active Pensioner.

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Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Health Workers Wanted

Applications close 5:00pm, Thursday 31st October, 2024

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CLASSIFIED APPROVAL DEADLINE 4PM FRIDAY

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TYRE TECHNICIAN Tyrepower Mareeba is seeking an experienced Tyre Technician for its very busy store.

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SPORT

State Cup success for Mareeba local GO-karters from all over Queensland recently travelled to Mareeba’s MakoTrac where contestants battled it out, lap by lap, in the hopes of taking home the 2024 Tyrepower Queensland State Cup for their respective divisions.

The weekend saw exhilarating competition and nail-biting finishes with Mareeba’s Sebastian Di Salvo winning the Tag Restricted Medium class by a mere 0.2 seconds.

Mareeba Shire Mayor Angela Toppin kick-started Queensland’s biggest go-kart race meet for 2024 on the first day of official racing and John Raso from Tyrepower Mareeba was on hand to wave the chequered flag in the final race and present trophies to the place getters.

The cup featured several different classes of racing including the young Cadet 12s and Juniors, while the Senior division was comprised of six different classes.

Mareeba local Sebastian Di Salvo set a blistering qualifying time in the senior Tag Restricted Medium class.

Di Salvo did not have it all his own way, with Townsville’s Matt Taylor winning the second heat and setting up an exciting final.

In the final, Gladstone’s Ryley Jones passed Taylor at the start and chased Di Salvo for the remaining laps.

In the end Di Salvo won by just 0.2 seconds with Jones second and Taylor third.

Cadet 12 featured the youngest racers and produced some of the best racing of the weekend.

The front two contenders Jack Larsen and Brock Nolan share an Australian and Queensland title between them, and they both wanted to add a State Cup to their 2024 achievements.

For their whole 12 lap final they traded places often multiple times per lap but in the end Larsen was victo-

rious with Nolan second and Cruz Smith third.

Townsville driver Nate Thompson was the class of the field in the very competitive Junior division.

Behind Thompson the competition for the minor placing was fierce, with Cairns locals Alex Boscarini, Luca Seeto, Luke Downs and Connor Hole all performing well in the heats.

In the final all four drivers were fighting for the podium positions, but it was Jake Lydom and Zac Tyson who took second and third place respectively behind Nate Thompson.

Other class winners: Tag 125 Light – Zac Ewing first, Emily Calwell second and Dylan Dunston third Tag 125 Restricted Masters – Wayne Ohl first, Julian Laws second and Rick Jones third 4SS (4-Stroke) – Gerard Nolan first, Matt Butland second and Matt Hunter third

Cadets 12 Queensland State Champion Jack Larsen

Adain Stevens was arguably the coolest Karter on the track.

Brock Nolan norrowly missed out on a top placing in an intense battle.

Local archery club full of good company David McGill (left), Taithan Carrette and Daniel Teelow in the field course

Emily O’Harra nailing the middle of the target

THE local Archery club recently held their annual Interclub Shoot that consisted of two days of bow and arrow action and an overnight camp.

“This year it was about making the event more fun and to introduce newer archers to competing without the initial pressure of a large tournament,” club secretary Daniel Teelow said.

The Tableland Company of Archers commenced day one of their Interclub Shoot with a modified field round containing 20 animal targets at distances ranging from 3-35m.

This was followed by an afternoon target round of 90 arrows with 30 ar-

rows at 40m, 30 arrows at 50m and 30 arrows at 60m on a 120cm target face.

On Sunday morning, it was voted that another field round would take place.

The Tableland Company of Archers are an official Archery Target Shooting Club associated with Archery Australia who meet every Sunday in Keribee Park, Mareeba From 9am-12pm they provide coaching for beginners and members, and have a “club shoot” in the afternoon.

Club members practice and compete with compound bows, Olympic recurve bows, barebows, longbows and x-bows.

The club has a 90m target range,

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

David McGill with some very impressive shooting

Robert Chapman hit the mark

12-target field course and a full clout range, also shooting at an indoor venue three to four times a year.

They currently have two archers who are in the top 10 on the National Rankings list.

Club coaches George Nielsen and wife Terry have coached a number of National Level archers over their many years of involvement with Archery Australia.

“We welcome all types of archers, from the absolute beginner to the most experienced,” said Daniel.

The local club hosts a range of tournaments throughout the year including

Indoor Nationals, State Championships and their own Interclub Tournament, some years even hosting the NQAA State Field Championships and State Target Championships.

For more information visit www.tablelandarchers.wixsite.com/tcofa Winners from the Interclub Shoot: Under 14 Compound – Taithan Carrette Open Female Barebow Recurve – Emily O’Harra Open Male Barebow Recurve – Berend Akkerman Open Male Compound – Daniel Teelow

Over 50 Male Compound – Robert Chapman first and David McGill second Over 60 Male Compound – Steven Sanders Taithan Carrette won Mistake of the Weekend Award for “a little incident he had with his bow”.

Steven Sanders won the Most Improved Award.

Robert Chapman won the Master Chef Award.

Another award was given to Berend Akkerman for his effort in setting the field up for the competition.

The Express, Wednesday October 9 2024 PAGE 33

SPORT

Tinaroo event not for the feint hearted Tears 4 Beers cross the finish the line for second place in the All Female Team division

Emma Finney in the 12km trail run leg

AN annual Tinaroo event aptly named the ‘Grin n Bear It Challenge’ was held recently, with competitors enduring hours of rigorous activity, completing a 2km swim, a 12km paddle, a 62km mountain bike ride and a 12km trail run.

Murray Macpherson and Hilary Bell both returned and defended their male and female solo titles respectively,

with Hilary rounding out a first-ever three in a row.

“Competitors encountered tough conditions with the sweaty afternoon run leg being a decisive factor in final team placings,” event coordinator Mitch Nissen said.

Murray defended his Solo Male title with a time of 5:51:52 and Hilary won the Solo Female category, almost 45 minutes ahead of second

place, with a time of 6:24:46.

The winners of the All Male Team category went to Smurf and Turf and the All Female Team title went to Girl Torque.

Blackzero All Torque took out the Mixed Team category.

“A special mention to the champion youth team of Josiah Dixon, Levi Gunton and Finn Rae, named ‘Can’t Whine, Too Young For That’,

who stormed past ‘The Brork Life’ late in the piece to take second place.

“Only narrowly missing out on the overall All Male Team top placing by a mere 1m36s.

“Nonetheless it was a gutsy effort from the young Atherton-Mareeba team and we look forward to seeing them back in 2025 for another shot at the top spot,” Mitch said.

A lone kayaker making their way through the gruelling event.

You are invited:

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PAGE 34 The Express, Wednesday October 9 2024

Volunteers Sought - Interested persons please visit:

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SPORT Cricket season almost underway Motorcross Championship and memorial

By KONNOR FURBER

WITH summer searing its way back into Far North Queensland, local cricket clubs are gearing up for another season beginning 12 October.

The Mareeba Bandits have been at it in their preparation, training hard and developing confidence as a team and are looking to “pull a couple teams’ pants down this season”.

“Numbers are looking great this season, we are looking to fill three senior teams in first, third and fourth grade, but we would definitely love to see more people join the club” said Bandits captain Brendan Falvo.

“Our preparation for this season has been better than ever, we had a personal trainer of the club conduct fitness training in the winter.

“And coming into the season we have been doing skill-based training with 20 seniors and many juniors training hard with coach Gary Toshach being the driving force.

“There’s been half a dozen of us who got picked up for regional rep duties and drafted into the Barrier Reef Big Bash.

“I feel that as players and a club we are getting recognised as a force and that our players do have the skills to match the best, which is a proud moment as a captain and a born and bred

Mareeba Bandits’ Tim O’Sullivan (left), Grace Trebbin, Lenny Hodges and captain Brendan Falvo.

Mareeba boy,” said Falvo.

“Last year was our first season back in first grade for over a decade and with the limited experience we had we only managed to win one game.

“But with that experience behind us and players both new and returning added to the squad, we’ll be looking to pull a couple teams’ pants down this season with the confidence we have built up as a team,” said Falvo.

For more information on how to become a Bandit visit the Ma-

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

reeba Cricket page on Facebook and Instagram or “contact the club directly if you are keen and looking for a great club and sport to be a part of”.

The Atherton Cricket Club has recently installed new nets at their Loder Park training facility, also noting that their numbers are looking better than last year, especially the juniors, whose numbers are “well up”.

After being “washed out” in the semi-finals last year due to wet weather, Atherton wrote the

season off and are determined to come back firing this season.

“Our preparations are going great, we’ve just put in new nets and it looks like we’ve got more players than last year, the junior numbers are well up,” said Atherton Cricket president Tony Potts.

“We got washed out in the semi’s last year, so it didn’t count.”

Visit Atherton Cricket on Facebook for more information on joining the club.

A CLUB championship and a memorial ride for a former rider will be held over two days this weekend at the Mareeba Motorcross Club.

The club will be holding their Round 4 Club Championships this Saturday to see who will be named Club Champions for 2024.

With this round being dedicated to their local sponsors it is sure to be a great day with action taking stage from 9am-3pm at 86 Springs Road, Mareeba.

Spectator entry is free and there will be a full canteen and bar onsite, along with a jumping castle for kids.

Race classes will include 50cc Demo, 50cc Auto, 65CC, 85CC, Junior Lites, Veterans, Ladies, MX2 and MX1.

Following this will be the Club Presentations at the end of the day to crown the overall Club Champions in each class for the 2024 Race season.

Families can stay on into the night with the Hungry Possum Pizza food van on site and a bar for refreshments.

On Sunday, the Jamie Parsons Memorial Ride Park Day will take place from 8am-2pm, in honour of a fallen Club Member that passed 25 years ago.

The club wanted to do something special to remember Jamie Parsons, so with the blessing of his family, this weekend of racing is in honour of his memory.

The club hopes that people who knew him will turn out to do a few laps with their “mates”, something Jamie was known to love.

All entries must be done on Ridernet for those wishing to participate.

The Express, Wednesday October 9 2024 PAGE 35

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