The Express Newspaper 15 January 2025

EXPRESS The

Delivering news across our region WEDNESDAY 11 SEPTEMBER, WEDNESDAY 15 JANUARY, 2024 2025

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MINE CRITICAL TO GLOBAL SECURITY A HOT sunny day made for good racing at the Malanda Cup meeting at Morrow Park on Saturday but it was also difficult for those who wanted to look their finest such as Fashions on the Field winners Tass Hulton and Mark Welham who took out the coveted titles, with their outfits both featuring cool green colours. The feature race of the day, the Malanda Big Pub Open over 1000m was won by Boogie Wonderland.

More pictures: Page 13.

EXPRESS The

Delivering news across our region WEDNESDAY 5

JUNE, 2024

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ewspaper.com.au

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Dramatic changes to Kuranda are looming the way trucks use the Barron River bridge at as authorities get weight the ageing structure can take. more concerned about the Trucks could be banned altogether permit system to or have to operate reduce under a Commuters will likely the weight on the 60-year-old bridge. also have to endure across in a single up to six years lane as the State Government “scramble of driving a new bridge that will cost s” With the State Budget hundreds of millions of dollars. to build to be released next Barron River Craig week, Member for bridge, the bridge, Crawford says his top three priorities and are “the “There is no click the bridge”. our fingers (and bridge,” he said. fix it) on this – the fix is a new

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Distillery vies for big award

NEXT to names of countries like Barbados, Thailand and Venezuela, the little local town of Walkamin sounds a bit out of place, and rightly so.

But our very own FNQ Rum from Mt Uncle Distillery has been shortlisted alongside other renowned distilleries from those countries for Rum Producer of the Year at the prestigious International Wine and Spirit Competition (IWSC).

The IWSC is renowned for its rigorous judging process, which evaluates spirits based on taste, balance, finish, and value.

“This competition is also known as the ‘Oscars of the Spirits industry’ or it’s like the Olympics in a way, the Rum Producer Trophy is one of the most sought-after accolades,” Mt Uncle’s head distiller Mark Watkins said.

Mayor Angela Toppin with Lance Starr of TRACQS (left), Local children were keen to level put the and artist Jak Lilley from Paradox Creative at the skate “Being recognised on this bynew Kuranda skate park to the park opening. the IWSC is test. incredibly rewarding for our team.

“We strive to craft rums that reflect the unique terroir of Far North Queensland, and this nomination reaflocal area and greater region.

THE highly anticipated reopening of the Lance Starr said. firms that our efforts are resonating on “The Barron River serves as a key Kuranda Skate Park has been welcomed “I would like to thank Mareeba Shire the world stage.”

Uncle Distillery and Head Distiller Mark Watkins FNQ Rum’s awardfeature and with functional design element, by the community, with the facility being MtCouncil for theirOwner assistance, TRACQS FNQ Rum is the only Australian Iridium X rum. well used over the Christmas/New Year winning supervisors Jason Ball and Adric Rusch, connecting and accentuating parts of the brand shortlisted for the Rum Producpiece. Abstracted graphic representations break. as well the TRACQS Community year for FNQ Rum, during locally and as internationally for their dis- a stellar er Trophy, “standing of the Wet Tropics bioregion vegetation The new park proudly” re-openedalongon 7 tinct Assistance Workers, who were upskilled flavours and exceptional quality”. which it has already secured multiple side global giants such as Foursquare maps At andthe textures sourced from local December with a free BBQ, local skaters in“We concreting, painting, welding, awards.

World Rum Awards use sugar cane nectar to proRum USA riders, from Barbados, Sang Som and BMX and a live DJ. machinery operation, landscaping, and eucalypt species serve as a background a more rich and sweet flavour and earlier this year, FNQ Rum took home Distillery frompark Thailand, and340 Ron square Ro- duce feature for the works and a directional The new features general construction.” then we age the spirit in ex-Australian two gold medals for its Platinum Cane ble Viejo from Venezuela. metres of concrete laid around the Cairns-based graffiti artist Jak Lilley element throughout the space and the wine barrels, so it combines these Spirit and Iridium Agave Cask Fin“This skate nomination cements FNQ red(Paradox existing bowl, two new shelters Creative) was excited to take park’s structure,” Jak explained. ish, alongside being named World’s nice flavours well,” Mark said.

Rum’s position as a leading force in Another element of interest in the with seating, a water bubbler, a grinding a unique approach to the artwork to Sugarcane Spirit.

Additionally, “And we’re situated in a really nice ofBest the rum aindustry and iswall, a tesartwork are the constellations, which barglobal for skaters, rock retaining new complement the structural design the brand’s commitment to qualityabove was the area, the fl uctuations in temperature tament to years of hard work, dedicaturf, 50 bollards around the park, and a the facility while representing the areas can be viewed at night directly with hot days and cold nights helps tion, innovation,” Mark said. park.highlighted with a silver medal new and mural. andthe communities featured in the space:further at International and Spirit the spirit age really well.”

FNQ Rum describes its rums as typographicWine style chosen for each “The Kuranda Skate Park has been Kuranda, Koah, Mantaka, Kowrowa, and theThe its Iridium X Rum. The Mt Uncle Distillery has also Competition being crafted project, “from the area title for draws influence from 1980s Mona. a fantastic andrich wevolcanic are very Mona will be travelling London in the UK, soils andto sugarcane of thisto unique skateboarding logos and to aims to create All started graphicdistribution elements featured in the Mark excited open the facility Kuranda recently ceremony on 12 to their successes. tropical region” and “produces a range adding a sensetheofawards pride for the communities artwork weremany chosen to represent theto attend and the surrounding communities,” This natural IWSC diversity recognition ofTRACQS rums thatcommunity have been celebrated both represented. iconic found follows within theNovember. activity manager

New-look skate park a hit with kids

SENIOR JOURNALIST Robyn Holmes

SENIOR JOURNALIST Andree Stephens

CADET JOURNALIST Konnor Furber

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 NEW offences and increased fines have been brought in by the State Government to crack down on feeding and interfering with crocodiles.

Two new offences have been introduced making it unlawful to unintentionally feed a crocodile by discarding food and remaining in close proximity to a crocodile.

Discarding food, including fish frames, scraps and bait, in a way that may attract crocodiles to a public place such as a boat ramp, jetty, pontoon or camping area can now result in an on-the-spot fine of $483 or a maximum court-imposed fine of $6,452.

Knowingly remaining within close proximity to a crocodile that is on, or partly on, land can now result in an on-the-spot fine of $806 or a maximum courtimposed fine of $16,130.

This offence complements the existing “disturbing” offence which prevents people from approaching or pursuing a crocodile or driving a boat or vehicle within 10m of it.

Conservation officers now also have the power to direct people to move away from a crocodile to avoid any potential human-crocodile interactions.

The government has also significantly increased

penalties for existing offences which aim to deter people from engaging in behaviours that pose a serious risk to public safety and animal conservation.

The on-the-spot fine for deliberately disturbing or feeding crocodiles has increased from $483 to $2580, with the maximum court-imposed fine increasing from $6452 to $26,615.

The on-the-spot fine for interfering with a crocodile trap has increased from $645 to $2580, with the maximum court-imposed fine increasing from $19,356 to $26,615.

But State Member for Hill Shane Knuth, who introduced the KAP’s Crocodile Control, Conservation, and Safety Bill 2024 into Parliament last month, slammed the new offences and fines as “nothing more than a band-aid fix”.

“The State Government has failed to manage the crocodile crisis for over a decade, and now it’s completely out of control,” he said.

“Ask anyone who regularly fishes or uses our waterways - they’ll tell you the crocodile population has exploded. “This is a Northern Queensland issue, and it should be managed locally, not from over 1,800 km away in an ivory tower.”

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snakes New local laws in force Stolen returned to wild

By ROBYN HOLMES

MAREEBA Shire residents will not have to get a permit from council to hold a celebratory event in a local park for less than 50 people after the new proposed local law was dropped following public feedback.

The council endorsed amendments to its local laws at its last meeting of 2024, also dropping another proposal which would have forced all dogs and cats to be desexed, except for those used as breeding animals or working dogs.

The council was met with a surge of inquiries about changes to its local laws after it released the amendments for comment in October. Most of the angst was expressed on social media, prompting the council to extend its public consultation period by two weeks to ensure all those who wished to have a say would be granted that opportunity.

During the consultation period between 18 October and 4 December, council received 105 formal responses and four petitions.

But while some members of the community were upset by the proposed changes, at its last meeting of the year, chief executive officer Peter Franks went through each change, explaining that many of the amendments were simply to provide more clarity and give definitions to existing laws.

“One of the changes is so a council officer, as an authorised person, has the ability to instruct people to leave a council-owned piece of land or road reserve,” he said.

“The officer could tell them how long they had to leave it for and would actually make it an offence if they failed to heed that instruction.

“An example of this would be if someone sets up a caravan and decides

To help with the housing crisis, people can live in a caravan in someone else’s property for six months and may be able to extend that for another six months. But no rent can be paid.

The new laws allow for two dogs to be on a property smaller than 450sqm.

they want to live at Rifle Creek at Mt Molloy, which is a short-term camping ground where people can stay for 24 hours. Under the existing conditions, we didn’t have any provision to move them on, and what they do is pack up, move down the road and come back the next day.

“This gives council the provision to tell them they can’t camp here and they’re not allowed back for 30 days or 60 days etc, and if they fail to adhere to that, it is a penalty.”

Mr Franks said that in this case, council could issue a fine of five penalty points, with each penalty point worth $161 – an amount which is set by the State Government.

Another key change was the ability of someone to apply for a caravan to be set up in their backyard for up to six months – something was proposed in response to the current housing crisis.

The existing local laws did not allow barbed wire fences in the shire. The new law allows for such fences except in urban areas and adjoining public lands.

Under the current law, people could only stay for 2-4 weeks in a caravan whilst a permanent residence was being built on a property.

The new law enables people to apply to live in a caravan at someone’s property for up to six months and allows for an extension of another six months, with a number of conditions applied to the application including that no rent can be paid to the property owner.

Another change to the local laws was to give clearer details about what would be required to bury someone on a private property, and the conditions under which remains could be removed.

“We don’t get these very often, but this (the amendments) defines what the conditions are and who has to do it,” Mr Franks explained.

“The second one is about an

internment on a private property – in this case, we say that the person would have had to be there (have a connection with a property) for 30 years and there’s a whole range of conditions applied to it. It’s a traumatic time for people and you don’t want to have get into debates and (this change) also makes it clearer for funeral directors.”

Other changes give the council the right to ask property owners to remove graffiti, something it couldn’t do under the existing local law.

“We would only do this is if it was a major issue – most property owners actually go in willingly and get rid of it,” Mr Franks said.

There is also a change as to where barbed wire and electric fences are allowed. The existing laws did not allow for a barbed or electric fence in the shire and given the rural nature of the area, this was changed to allow such fences except where they adjoin a public park or reserve or within an urban area.

Council also now has the ability to act when people start fires that cause smoke which irritates other people.

“This is to deal with people who intentionally go out and annoy their next door neighbours and unfortunately, we need this,” Mr Franks said.

Changes to animal management laws include allowing two dogs on properties under 450 sq m, and setting minimum standards for the keeping of all animals which allows officers to deal with situations where people are doing the wrong thing and would only be a “complaints driven” action by council.

Council unanimously endorsed the local laws amendments which can be viewed on the council’s website.

EIGHT snakes that were allegedly taken unlawfully from their habitat have been released back into the wild in Far North Queensland following a tip-off, a vehicle intercept, and a seizure.

On 31 December, the Department of the Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation received information about snakes being taken from the Lockhart River area on Cape York Peninsula.

Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service (QPWS) rangers along with the Queensland Police Service conducted a vehicle intercept in the Coen area.

A search of the vehicle allegedly revealed six green tree pythons and two brown tree snakes, which were seized by rangers.

On 2 January, after the snakes had been assessed as being in good health, QPWS rangers and Kuuku Ya’u Rangers released the snakes back to the wild in the Lockhart River area.

Investigations into the incident are continuing.

Compliance Manager Mike Devery said green tree pythons were a spectacular ‘near threatened’ protected species that only occur in limited parts of Cape York.

“The removal of one near-threatened species from the wild can have significant and detrimental impacts on local populations,” he said.

“Due to the striking colours of juvenile and adult green tree pythons, they are targeted by wildlife smugglers as part of the unlawful trade of wildlife.

“Sadly, most green tree pythons that are removed from the wild will die during the smuggling process or once placed in captivity.

“This is why we have zero tolerance for the removal of any native animal from the wild, and we will take strong action against anyone found in possession of native animals without a permit.

“Under the Nature Conservation Act 1992, capturing native animals from the wild without a relevant permit is prohibited.

“Significant penalties apply for unlawfully taking a snake from the wild. If the taking is from a National Park, the maximum penalty is $483,900 or two-years imprisonment.”

Anyone with information about the illegal trade of native plants or animals should call 1300 130 372, and all reports are investigated.

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The Express, Wednesday January 15 2025 PAGE 3

Plan to guide TRC for next five years A NEW corporate plan for the next five years has been adopted by Tablelands Regional Council.

The council adopted its Corporate Plan 2025-30 at the last meeting of 2024.

In presenting the plan for adoption, Mayor Rod Marti explained how the document would provide direction for the development of strategies and plans, and would influence the development of the 2025-26 Budget and Operational Plan.

“This Corporate Plan sets the strategic direction for the organisation for the next five years as we deliver critical infrastructure and services to meet the community’s needs.

“The plan links the Tablelands 2030+ Community Plan’s priorities with this council’s commitment to deliver and facilitate outcomes.

“We will routinely report on progress towards achieving our vision through Operational Plans, Quarterly Reports, Annual Reports and Financial Reports, and will regularly communicate and engage with stakeholders and community.

“We value and respect all customer interactions and commit to being responsive and proactive in all dealings. Our dedicated staff take pride in activities and achievements that support our customers and add value to our community and its fabric.

“I commit to working with the chief executive officer to provide the teamwork, leadership and support to my fellow councillors and the broader organisation to ensure our community receives the best services and support that we can realistically provide,” Mayor Marti added.

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Malanda State School students Anjali (left), Ava, Isaac and Braxton recently competed at the National VEX Robotics Championships.

Students compete at robotics championships A TEAM of bright, young minds from Malanda State School has put Far North Queensland on the map after competing at the prestigious National VEX Robotics Championships in Sydney recently.

The Year 5 team, led by their dedicated STEM teacher Greg Lanyon, included Anjali, Braxton, Isaac, and Ava, who all worked tirelessly last year to qualify through the regional competition in Cairns.

Their journey to Sydney was a testament to their grit, teamwork, and determination as they faced off against the nation’s best young innovators.

Competing with their custom-built robot designed to shoot balls through goals to rack up points, the Malanda team proudly finished 23rd from a field of 54 of the best robotic schools from across Australia.

“These students exemplify the resilience and ingenuity of our region. They’ve not only represented Malanda but all of Far North Queensland on a national stage,” Mr Lanyon said.

“The future of innovation looks bright with students like Anjali, Braxton, Isaac, and Ava leading the way. Their journey inspires the entire community, proving that with dedication and support, young people from rural areas can achieve extraordinary things,” he said.

Reflecting on the experience, Ava said “the ability to discuss tactics with other teams, work together to achieve a goal, and have fun in the face

of pressure were the best lessons we learned.”

The competition was more than just remotecontrolled robot games, it also included an intense autonomous coding challenge, where students programmed their robots to complete tasks without any hands-on guidance.

Such challenges help students build critical skills in problem-solving, teamwork, and innovation.

Malanda State School has been a leader in fostering these talents, investing significantly in their STEM program and laying the groundwork for their upcoming STEM Academy.

These initiatives are designed to equip students with the skills they need to innovate and thrive in the future.

While the competition was the highlight of the trip, the students also had the opportunity to explore Sydney’s iconic landmarks, including Bondi Beach, the Sydney Opera House, Sydney Harbour Bridge, The Rocks and Circular Quay.

“This incredible opportunity would not have been possible without the generous support of the Far North Queensland Youth Assistance Fund, Malanda State School and the Malanda State School P&C,” Mr Lanyon said.

“Their contributions relieved financial pressure on families and allowed these students to experience something truly life changing.”

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Warning over deadly soil disease spike

A SPIKE in cases of a dangerous disease picked up from the soil has prompted a warning by health authorities.

There have been eight cases of melioidosis notified in the Cairns and hinterland region within the past week.

Melioidosis is a serious disease found in ground water and soil. It causes death in up to 50% of untreated cases and up to 20% of treated cases.

Cairns and Hinterland Hospital and Health Service Tropical Public Health Services director Dr Jacqueline Murdoch said heavy rainfall brought the melioidosis bacteria burkholderia pseudomallei into surface water and soil.

Dr Murdoch said disease could occur when skin abrasions or wounds came into contact with wet soil or water, or by breathing in dust or droplets, especially during storms or spray from high pressure hoses.

“Melioidosis adversely affects people with additional health issues such as diabetes, kidney problems, lung problems, and those who are immunocompromised such as people receiving cancer treatment or have chronic conditions.” she said.

“Symptoms of acute melioidosis may include fever, cough and difficulty breathing - the effects can be very severe and often require hospitalisation for antibiotic treatment.

“Sometimes the disease presents as superficial skin infections or abscesses in various part of the body.

“If anyone has noticed non-healing

Tablelands first baby for 2025

wounds or persistent fevers over several weeks, then they should be seen by their GP and checked for this infection, as it can require prolonged antibiotic treatment.”

Dr Murdoch said there was no vaccine to prevent melioidosis, therefore it was vital that people – particularly those with underlying medical conditions – took proper precautions.

“This includes avoiding contact with soil or muddy water, particularly after heavy rains,” she said.

“Wear protective footwear –not open footwear such as thongs and sandals - when outdoors, especially in muddy conditions.

“Consider wearing a mask when using a high-pressure hose around soil or spraying high-pressure bore water.

“Make sure you wear gloves while working in the garden or on farms and covering abrasions and sores with waterproof dressings.

“After any exposure to soil or muddy water, you should wash yourself thoroughly, preferably in a shower.

“People with diabetes should maintain optimal foot care, with help from a podiatrist if necessary.

“And people with risk factors, such as diabetes, kidney problems, lung problems, people who have heavy alcohol consumption, and people on medication that lowers their immune system including cancer treatments should stay indoors during storms when there is heavy wind and rain.”

THE Tablelands first baby of the year was brought into the world in an unexpected fashion for parents Alan and Vicky Louw, after she was delivered in the back of an ambulance on the side of the road.

Maddie Maria was born while on route to the Atherton Hospital at 2.15pm on 1 January weighing 3230 grams, four days before her due date.

She was delivered near the intersection of Tumoulin Road and Kennedy Highway and the Louw’s now refer to that corner as “Maddie’s Bend” rather than Tumoulin turn-off.

“It just happened so quickly, my husband went to take the kids to his mum, and then the contractions just started getting closer together, so my midwife recommended calling the ambulance and not to leave,” Vicky said.

“It wasn’t a worry being in the ambulance because the paramedics were brilliant and were calming and confident with what they were doing. They all did an incredible job and we are so grateful to them,” she said.

Maddie is a little sister for Lachlan, Amelia and Noah.

Leptospirosis a danger for dogs, says vet VETERINARIANS are urging dog owners to take proactive steps to protect Atherton veterinarian Dr Graham their pets from leptospirosis, a dangerous Lauridsen is warning dog owners to and often deadly disease that becomes protect their animals from leptospirosis. more prevalent during heavy rains.

Leptospirosis is spread through water be the most common and most lethal contaminated by the urine of infected infectious disease we deal with,” he said.

“Clinically sick unvaccinated dogs wildlife or rodents, referred to as have a 75% chance of death, even with reservoir hosts.

For dogs, a simple walk through a intensive treatment.

“With the wet season here, now is puddle or drinking from a creek can lead to exposure. The disease is particularly the time to speak with your vet about serious, with high fatality rates even with preventive options to protect your dog.”

Global veterinary guidelines now treatment.

As cases are expected to rise during classify protection against leptospirosis the rainy season, veterinarians are as essential in areas like Far North emphasising the need for preventative Queensland, where the disease is Local veterinarians actions such as vaccination to keep pets widespread. recommend pet owners take time to safe.

Tropical Vet Services director Dr discuss leptospirosis prevention with Graham Lauridsen explained the local their vets, particularly if their dogs are active outdoors or have access to water impact.

“Leptospirosis serovar Australis is sources where wildlife and rodents considered by Tropical Vet Services to may roam.

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NIGHT closures are back for the Kuranda Range Road as the Department of Transport and Main Roads continues with repairing the critical route to the coast.

The road currently has two single lane sections under traffic control and is closed every night from 9pm to 4am, except for 26-27 January.

Let through times for traffic are available at midnight for both the top and bottom of the range.

Road users must be in the queue by midnight as traffic will only be let through once in each direction for as long as it takes to clear the queued vehicles, then the road will close again until 4am.

New street sweeper A NEW street sweeper for Mareeba will be purchased that will cost nearly half a million dollars.

At its last meeting of the year, Mareeba Shire councillors approved the purchase of a dual control, dual engine road sweeper for $452,219. The current street sweeper, which was purchased in 2016, will be sold at auction.

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The Express, Wednesday January 15 2025 PAGE 5

Local business Free flu jab gives back to available the community

in 2025

A DAY’s proceeds and three big boxes worth of goods were donated from a local chiropractic business to Mareeba Community Centre leading up to Christmas.

Care Chiropractic Queensland’s Dr Matt Jacob said he was proud to see the amount of support from his clients, with “well over 100 people” contributing to the donations.

In addition to a whole day’s proceeds donated from the business, clients also opted to give sums of money and goods, totalling three big boxes that included food (non-perishables), living and health essentials, and kid’s toys.

MCC community support worker Sandy Chapman (left) received three big boxes worth of goods and a monetary donation from Care Chiropractic Queensland’s Dr Matt Jacob (right).

First mango entries are in

Liam and Sienna Avolio with their 1.514kg specimen.

THE Express’ annual Kensington Pride mango competition is in full swing, with five entries already lodged in the contest.

Topping the leaderboard at the moment is Sienna and Liam Avolio with their beautiful 1.514kg mango brought into the office on Friday.

The Avolio entry is followed by Mackenzie O’Shea with a 1.445kg specimen, followed by Preston O’Shea with a 1.26kg mango, Shane Dyer (1.210kg) and Sienna Colls and Nonno Alvise Brazzale with their 1.16kg mango.

There’s still plenty of time to enter your mango, with the competition closing on Friday 31 January.

First place will be rewarded with $500, second place $300, and third place $200, courtesy of Lindsay Rural Transport.

All entrants must provide a photo of the mango on a set of electronic scales.

To enter, present your mango and photo to The Express office on 186 Byrnes Street before 31 January.

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QUEENSLANDERS can have a free flu vaccination from 1 March until 1 September, with the Crisafulli Government allocating $25 million towards the program in 2025 after the former Labor Government failed to fund the program in this year’s budget.

Minister for Health and Ambulance Services Tim Nicholls said the government was focused on reducing pressures on Queensland hospital emergency departments and the broader healthcare system, and one way to do this was to provide the free flu vaccination program.

“The highest influenza-related hospitalisation rates occur in older Queenslanders over 65 and young children under five,” Minister Nicholls said.

“While Queenslanders in these age groups are already eligible for flu vaccination under the Commonwealth’s National Immunisation Program (NIP), extending free flu vaccination for all Queenslanders should improve uptake and support the broader health system through avoidable hospitalisations.

“In 2022, when free flu jabs were first introduced, this was the case – the uptake was 36% of total population (2,118,481 doses administered).

“However, the subsequent declines in uptake in 2023 (1,837,384 doses administered) and 2024 (1,752,512 doses administered) of free flu vaccinations is a concern.

“To provide context, Queenslanders uptake of flu vaccination in 2024, at 29% of total population, was similar to the uptake in New South Wales (28.8%) where free flu vaccinations for all were not provided in 2024.

“The decline in the numbers of Queenslanders getting the flu jab in 2023 and 2024 indicates vaccine fatigue and hesitancy may be impacting decisions more so than the cost.”

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

New CEO set to bring Capital works on track fresh approach to TRC A NEW chief executive officer will be sitting in the top chair for Tablelands Regional Council from next month.

The appointment of Dr Nikola Stepanov as TRC’s new boss comes after former CEO Gary Rinehart left the position suddenly in October, with no explanation provided to the community as to what the circumstances were around his departure.

Describing Dr Stepanov as a “highly regarded local government executive”, Mayor Rod Marti believes the arrival of the new CEO is an important moment for the Tablelands Region.

“Dr Nikola Stepanov’s incisive knowledge of Queensland local government and governance, outstanding leadership, connectivity in business and industry, and membership on health and university boards will lift the level of work and advocacy of TRC,” he said.

“We look forward to her commencement in February and to the enormous value she will bring to our organisation and community.

“A former North Queensland local, Dr Stepanov is a trusted and highly regarded local government executive, lawyer, mediator and values-led leader with unique and extensive knowledge of the Queensland local government sector.

“She brings more than 25 years’ of executive experience to the role and is accredited or registered in several professions including as a solicitor, governance professional and mediator.

“As the immediate past Queensland Integrity Commissioner, Dr Stepanov is well known for providing invaluable support and assistance to councils and councillors during the reformation process following the Crime and Corruption Commission’s investigations into the local government sector.”

Dr Stepanov is currently the general manager of Planning and Development at Toowoomba Regional Council.

“In her current role, she is credited by government, industry, business and community with reforming processes to be more effective and efficient, delivering value by providing certainty for investment and development, and encouraging good development in the community’s interests,” Mayor Marti said.

“With a strong and ethical people-focus, Dr Stepanov has a passion for bringing about meaningful and sustainable change, and has expertise in transforming workplace cultures to create happy and high-performing teams that deliver exceptional services to customers and the community.

“For demonstrated leadership, Dr Stepanov is ranked in

CAPITAL works across Mareeba Shire are on track, according to a report at the last meeting of the year.

Progress is well underway to seal two sections of Ootann Road after the council received funding from the Australian Government from the Investment Road and Rail Program to undertake widening and sealing works.

During the latter part of year, the two unsealed sections had earthworks to subgrade level, drainage structures and rock protection completed. The crew will return to the site after the 2024-25 wet season.

Works are also continuing for the retaining wall at the Kuranda Heights Cemetery to protect the exposed rock face at the site during wet weather events.

The Kuranda Heights Cemetery became available for internments from August 2024 and Stage 1 of the project will have capacity for the next 10 years.

In Mareeba, the Byrnes Street median upgrades are progressing well, with the goal to enhance visibility for road users and create safer working conditions for council’s parks and gardens crews.

The concrete kerbs have been installed and planted on the eastern side of Byrnes Street between Railway Avenue and Granite Creek, the corner of Railway Avenue and Rotary Park, and near the BP Station.

The project is fully funded by the Australian Government’s Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program.

Works are also now complete to replace the 190m road base near the Salihe Avenue intersection at James Street in Mareeba to improve the quality of the road.

Another highlight in the capital works update for November was the replacement of the water mains in Keeble and Adams Streets in Mareeba.

Help create new mural Dr Nikola Stepanov has been appointed the new chief executive officer at TRC and will start work in Febriuary.

the top 10% of local government executives against nationwide benchmarks and has top decile rankings in important indicators including valuing employees, staff engagement and staff retention.

“This has positioned her as a leader who can create and sustain workplaces of choice.”

According to Mayor Marti, Dr Stepanov has longestablished ties with the community including as an Adjunct Professor with James Cook University and her past work with community legal services providers and other groups.

“We look forward to welcoming Dr Stepanov into the region, and the stability and strength her appointment will bring to the council and community,” he added.

LOCALS can help to create Mareeba Shire’s latest mural at the Geraghty Park Hall in Julatten this Saturday.

Local artist Lavinia Letheby (Art

by Lavinia) from North Queensland will be bringing her creative touch to the hall with an artwork featuring the stunning birds of the Julatten area, including the buff-breasted paradise kingfisher and the double-eyed fig parrot.

“We are very excited that Lavinia will be creating a beautiful space in Julatten, after delivering the stunning Chillagoe Town Hall and Mutchilba Community Hall murals in recent years,” Mareeba Mayor Angela Toppin said.

The Julatten mural will grace the front of the library and the breezeway between the craft room and library, and Lavinia will carefully restore an existing mural that features local journalist Peter Justice, painted in 1999 by Diana Abiad.

Locals can join in from 8am to 12 noon this Saturday and help paint the mural by numbers.

Public artworks for Kuranda and Irvinebank are scheduled for later this year.

The Public Mural Action Plan is aimed at boosting the Shire towns’ visual appeal, reducing graffiti, and promoting cultural tourism.

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The Express, Wednesday January 15 2025 PAGE 7

2024

NEWS YEAR IN REVIEW

2024 was a year of change, with Local Government and State elections held that saw a new Member for Cook elected. It was also a year of recovery for the region which was reeling from the effects of Cyclone Jasper and extreme rainfall events that caused extensive damage to vital transport routes.

XPRESS E FLOO D FA LL-O UT The

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Living a nightmare as recovery continues

Emerald Robbie Weedon's property on End Road was inundated in December.

pieces after is picking up the i farm.

Rodney Ingersoll out his barramund flooding wiped

JANUARY

For a loving farewell, not an expensive

one

event is a distant memory for many While December’s extreme rainfall with its aftermath. For the past of us, some locals are still dealing and Robbie Weedon have been month, Rodney Ingersoll (pictured) worth of damage on their properties, grappling with millions of dollars’ or State Government grants. with no help from insurance companies both has come together to support Despite all this, the community continue to rebuild their livelihoods. they as families their and men  READ MORE – PAGES 4-5

TRUTH, TRUST AND ENCY.

TRANSPAR The start of the year very much focussed on details please visit our We don’t hide our fees, for full funerals.com.au mmunity www.co – website the region recovering from extreme rainfall and the after effects of Cyclone Jasper, with major transport routes like the Palmerston Highway and Kuranda Range Road suffering extensive damage and property owners reeling and desperately trying to pick up the pieces of their lives.

With a State election looming in October and the local government election campaign for the March poll underway, The Express embarked on a major community survey on 24 January to allow locals to express their views about a number of issues such as roads, health and cost of living, and to find out what was most important to them.

Australia Day was celebrated throughout the region, with Natasha Srhoj named Mareeba’s Citizen of the Year, and Mt Garnet postie Bob Walker named the Tablelands top citizen.

Australia Day honours went to former Eacham Mayor Ray Byrnes, Yungaburra’s John Compton and Darren Cleland from Biboohra.

Community Spirit

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The housing crisis was a focus for Mareeba Shire Council, releasing a Housing Action Plan to try to find ways to alleviate the shortage.

Due to the extreme wet weather, sink holes opened in a Mareeba street, causing a sewerage flow into the Barron River.

The Mareeba Markets came into the spotlight in mid-February as stallholders revealed they were losing money fast due to the relocation of the markets to the racecourse. The issue would eventually force organisers to admit there was a problem and, later in the year, the Mareeba Lions would come to the rescue. In a decision

that would come back into the public arena later in the year, Tablelands Regional Council refused to support a heritage listing application for the former CSIRO arboretum at Atherton.

The property had been privately purchased and concerns were rife that the trees planted at the site over many decades were at risk.

In good news for Atherton, TRC endorsed a plan for a new retail precinct that was designed to attract large retail operators to the area.

Mareeba and Cr Dave Bilney for TRC. News emerged that TRC would have to pay for students from Mt Garnet to access swimming lessons in Atherton after the town’s pool remained closed, with no hope in sight of it reopening in the immediate future. Later in the year, council decided to remove the structure.

Ray Road residents pleaded with Mareeba Shire to do something about extensive flooding during storms, with the council releasing a drainage study for the area later in the year.

During the month, Sunwater held an online water auction, putting $36 million of permanent water up for grabs – something that had not happened since the 1990s.

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Tablelands Regional Crs Kylie Lang and Annette Haydon and (centre) Mareeba Mayor Angela Toppin #StandUpSpeakUp against DFV.

APRIL

New councils were sworn in – Mareeba welcomed three new councillors (Amy Braes, Nipper Brown and Ross Cardillo), while TRC also had three new faces (Kylie Lang, Maree Baade, and Con Spanos). Both councils also had new deputy mayors – Cr Lenore Wyatt for

IT'S TIME TO STOP THE VIOLENCE women across Australia IN just the past four months, 27 hands of a man. have been allegedly killed by the not only locally, but The increase in family violence, is partnering with loacross the nation, is why The Express and Cairns Regional Docal police, Women’s Centre FNQ

a campaign to stop the mestic Violence Service to launch violence. courage, honour and The colour purple is a symbol of which is why, this dedication to ending domestic violence, masthead. of our week, we have changed the colour

and Family Violence This month is Queensland Domestic against Prevention Month, the time to #StandUpSpeakUp show your support for domestic and family violence and and beyond. victim-survivors across our region ON PAGE 3 READ HOW YOU CAN BE INVOLVED

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With the region still in recovery mode in the socials arooestate.com.au follow us on 321 000 RYLEY wake of0409 the wetwww.am season, Peakes Gully residents plead with TRC to do something about the flooding that inundates their properties every storm.

Rodeo seasons kicks off, but it is the Great Wheelbarrow Race that takes the national spotlight, with the event featured on the Sunrise breakfast program and the focus of the ABCproduced Back Roads.

Stallholders from the Mareeba Markets are advised the markets will no longer take place after organisers cancelled the monthly event, a few months after The Express reported the markets were in decline and stallholders were frustrated by the loss of income. Just a week later, the Lions Club announces it will manage the markets and sets about getting permission to relocate the event back to the 100 Park.

TRC makes the sudden decision to close the Patrick English Pavilion at Malanda, locking out the show society as it tries to prepare for the annual event.

The LNP announces that David Kempton will be its candidate for the seat of Cook at the October poll as the party attempts to oust the current MP, Cynthia Lui. The avocado sector says it’s in crisis, with thousands of trees bulldozed into the ground as the market price for the fruit plummets amid rising production costs.

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use the Barron River bridge at Dramatic changes to the way trucks get more concerned about the Kuranda are looming as authorities weight the ageing structure can take. or have to operate under a Trucks could be banned altogether on the 60-year-old bridge. permit system to reduce the weight endure up to six years of driving Commuters will likely also have to Government “scrambles” to build across in a single lane as the State of millions of dollars. a new bridge that will cost hundreds next week, Member for released With the State Budget to be his top three priorities are “the Barron River Craig Crawford says bridge”. the bridge, the bridge, and fix it) on this – the fix is a new “There is no click our fingers (and bridge,” he said.

ters – TURN TO PAGE 3

What this means for trucks and commu

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JUNE

Community Spirit

TRUTH, TRUST AND TRANSPARENCY.

details please visit our We don’t hide our fees, for full funerals.com.au mmunity

website – www.co The condition of the ageing Barron River bridge at Kuranda becomes a major concern after the then Member for Barron River Craig Crawford warns that heavy vehicles may have to be banned from using the structure, and reveals that a new bridge would take up to six years to be built. The situation becomes a major issue in the October election.

Mareeba Shire gets a $2.1 million grant for a revitalisation plan for the town’s CBD, while TRC Mayor Rod Marti uses his power to stop the proposal to allow Tolga Industrial Estate businesses to expand into the rail trail corridor, going against a decision made by the previous council.

TRC also reveals that the Patrick English pavilion at Malanda will cost upwards of $2.3 million to repair, placing the future of the much-loved igloo in jeopardy.

Frustration continues to grow amongst the Yungaburra community over a perceived lack of action by TRC to regain public access to the Peterson’s Creek walking track.

In Atherton, there was uproar over the bulldozing of trees from the Arboretum property by its new owner, prompting a stop work order by the State Government and an investigation. The property was being considered for heritage listing at the time.

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MARCH

The Express Yourself Community Survey yielded 1045 responses from across the region, revealing that a safe transport route to the coast was a top priority, with 92% wanting a new road and 91% admitting they no longer felt safe driving the Kuranda Range Road after it suffered some 35 landslips in December.

With no contender in sight, Mareeba Mayor Angela Toppin was assured of four more years in her role, while TRC Mayor Rod Marti was in a battle with councillor David Clifton to take out that mayoral race. Cr Marti won the contest, securing a second term as Mayor.

Eleven people nominated for Mareeba council, while 12 lined up to win the TRC divisions with the exception of Div 4 and Div 6 where there was only one candidate (Dave Bilney and Con Spanos).

In Yungaburra, a determined group of people got together to try to force the council to buy land that was critical to return public access to a section of the renowned Peterson’s Creek track. Later in the year, public access to the track would be secured amid celebrations in the community.

In other news, a second set of traffic lights for Mareeba was announced, community access to the Malanda pool was lost, and the Express Yourself survey revealed crime was still a critical issue for the October State poll.

In sad news, former Mareeba Mayor Tom Gilmore passed away, leaving a legacy spanning four decades of community service through his local and state government roles.

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Dimbulah growers be a distant memory to many, but Recent freezing temperatures may by frost on 18-19 July. after many crops were scorched had seen since are still feeling its consequences said it was one of the worst she Local grower Lucia Pozzebon (pictured) Keit mango flowers being destroyed by the young the 1980s, with the majority of her ABOUT IT ON PAGE 5 unpredicted intense frost. – READ

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www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

JULY

Budgets for both local councils were brought down, with TRC voting for a 3.6% rate rise to deliver a $49 million capital works program, and Mareeba endorsing a 5.6% rate rise and a $24.6 million capital works program.

The battle to save the Patrick English Pavilion at Malanda heats up, with a passionate plea from the community, amidst revelations that TRC had to pay the show society $25,000 because they were unable to get items for the event from the igloo before the council suddenly shut the doors.

The annual Mareeba Rodeo was a big success again, with Jordana Giacometti named the 2024 Rodeo Queen.

The Barron River bridge at Kuranda was the focus of election pledges, with Labor promising $450 million to build a new structure by 2031 and LNP promising to pursue a “proper solution” while Katter’s Australian Party preferred to push for an alternative road to the coast.

Colder than normal conditions brought frost to the region, wiping out thousands of dollars in crops for local producers.

AUGUST

TRC moves to boost its tourism industry, funding a position to develop a new strategy in the next 12 months to promote its natural assets, as the Atherton Mountain Bike Park received funds from the State Government to develop a business case to extend its network of trails.

The Queensland Heritage Council gave Atherton locals some comfort that the future of the town’s prized Arboretum was secured when it announced the property had been heritage listed.

After a Facebook post by an Atherton man, locals got together to remove more than a dozen shopping trolleys from Prior’s Creek.

Meanwhile, Mareeba council was facing questions over installing unsightly concrete bollards down Ceola Drive and in some parts of Anzac Avenue, but residents were assured it was only a six-month trial after council received a petition calling for the bollards to be removed.

SEPTEMBER

Commuters were disappointed after being advised no repairs to the Kuranda Range Road would take place until 2025, more than a year after extensive landslides warranted single lane sections of the road, causing traffic delays. It

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SAVANNA H HITS THE MARK

artists, including SOME of the best Australian music (below), were joined country sensation James Johnston and Kip Moore (right) to

by US superstars Tyler Hubbard lled Mareeba’s Kerribee thrill thousands of people who fi the Round to date.

Park for the biggest Savannah in well attended that the The fifth annual festival was so mid-afternoon Saturday car park at the event was full by week. last out and all camping spots were sold talent across Apart from the wide array of musical also enjoyed the four different stages, festival-goers and the great variety the exhilarating bullriding action 12-13 of food on offer. See more on pgs

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was also revealed that the repairs would take up COMMUNITY to two years before any RALS“safety upgrades” FUNEnew would beOur undertaken.

Commitment Is To Care TRC Mayor Rod Marti received a petition with 2000 signatures from people who were desperate to see the Patrick English Pavilion at Malanda repaired and retained. Two former councillors revealed they were kept in the dark over the condition of the building, signing Statutory Declarations as part of a lengthy submission to the Office of the Independent Assessor, the CCC, and the State Ombudsman.

Meanwhile, TRC brought forward funds to enable the redevelopment of the Prior’s Creek precinct to get started.

The Mt Carbine tungsten mine grabbed headlines after it was revealed that the US Department of Defense had moved to secure the metal for products critical to its defence, aerospace, medical, industrial and semiconductor sectors. The company which owns the mine, EQ Resources, also announced a partnership with the only US tungsten and molybdenum manufacturer.

In other news, Mareeba Shire announced the end of free green waste days, while local mango producer Deb Nucifora was awarded the prestigious Charlie Nastasi Farmer of the Year title.

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Shane Knuth won the contest in the Hill electorate, delivering him an eighth term as an MP. The fate of the much-loved igloo at the Malanda showgrounds was sealed when TRC voted to demolish the building and to pursue the construction of a new multipurpose building for the site.

Savannah in the Round was a resounding success, with the music festival the biggest yet, bringing a major economic boost to the Mareeba Shire.

TRC’s chief executive officer Gary Rinehart leaves his position suddenly, but the council refuses to tell the public why and whether he would receive any payout on his contract which still had several months to go.

Mareeba Shire announces it is amending its Local Laws, causing a stir in some parts of the community over the changes.

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BLACK HAWK TOUCHES DOWN .au

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OCTOBER

has been THE region’s firefighting capacity by the massively boosted following a decisiona UH-60 relocate Queensland Fire Department to to assist crews Black Hawk helicopter to Mareeba which have who have been battling bushfires properties. threatened several towns and rural – Page 7 Story

The State election was the main news generator of the month, with former Member for Cook, David Kempton from the LNP, regaining the seat from Labor’s Cynthia Lui, who held the seat for three terms. The LNP also won the seat of Barron River and Mulgrave, while Katter’s Australian Party’s

District Powiesnik (left) and Savannah Tablelands area manager Stephan Rural Fire Service Queensland down at Mareeba Airport on Sunday. with the Black Hawk which touched Assistant Chief Officer Clint Tunnie

Fires became common place throughout the month, with crews fighting blazes all over the Mareeba Shire and Tablelands region.

Another stop work order was placed on the Atherton Arboretum site after reports that some of the trees may have been poisoned, sparking an investigation by the Department of Environment, Science and Innovation.

Mareeba residents gathered to vent their anger and frustration at the continued crime being experienced in the town, particularly by its oldest citizens. Meanwhile, the town welcomed upgrades to street gardens in Byrnes Street, funded by the Federal Government.

Mt Garnet residents learned they will not be getting a new swimming pool, with TRC deciding to get rid of the existing pool structure and not replace it. Member for Hill Shane Knuth says he will fight to get State funds to provide a new pool.

Repairs to Kuranda Range Road finally start, some 12 months after the road sustained more than 30 landslides in December 2023.

Mareeba Council knocks lives-streaming of its meetings on the head, saying the costs of providing the service is too much despite all other local councils live-streaming their monthly meetings.

DECEMBER

Mareeba loses one of its most well-known community leaders, Mick Borzi, at the age of 91. Mr Borzi was recognised as a visionary leader who had a “can do” attitude and who was behind the development of the Cairns Airport, the establishment of the Mareeba Industrial Estate and the Mareeba Heritage and Museum visitor information centre.

The Mareeba United Football Club looks to the new year with excitement as a new committee and coach come on board for the Bulls. Ange Tatti took over the reins as president, while Victor Madrid was named the coach of the senior men’s team.

Annual crime figures showed the number of offences in Mareeba grew by 15% over the previous year, while Atherton had a slight decline in crime compared to the previous 12 months.

Unlawful entry into homes and businesses increased by 31% in Mareeba, while 87 vehicles were stolen compared to 45 in 2023.

The new Minister for Main Roads, Brent Mickelberg, visited the region, giving assurances that fixing the Kuranda Range Road and the Barron River bridge were top priorities for the new Crisafulli Government.

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Groups push for community approach to youth justice THE new State Government needed to engage more effectively with local Elders and grassroots and community-controlled organisations in the development of therapeutic justice responses, according to the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Legal Service (QLD) Ltd and Tablelands Community Justice Group in Atherton.

The two organisations met in Atherton late last year to discuss the systemic issues surrounding youth offending, incarceration, community safety and communityled solutions.

“By engaging the community at the local level, we can better understand the challenges to tailor our service delivery to community need and develop more effective solutions that engage youth in rehabilitation,” ATSILS chief executive officer Shane Duffy said.

In a joint statement following the meeting, the groups said addressing these issues required respectful, culturally informed approaches, increased resources for rehabilitation and diversion programs, and systemic changes to reduce reliance on detention for young people.

“Developing stronger relationships with police to foster community-engaged policing, rather than over-policing communities, is a crucial element to this,” they said.

“Local communities must be involved in the solutions.

“Organisations such as the Tablelands Community Justice Group TCJG, which is comprised of local Elders, are uniquely positioned to understand and address cultural and social dynamics within their communities, leading to more effective interventions such as ‘On Country’ Elder-led camps.”

The camps provide opportunities for young people to learn respect, connect with their heritage and understand their cultural identity.

Organisations such as the TCJG were also uniquely positioned address cultural and social dynamics within their communities, leading to more effective interventions.

“Our Elders network plays a crucial role in helping to set our youth on a path to rehabilitation to break the cycle of offending,” TCJG justice coordinator Julie Go Sam said.

Indigenous youth in Queensland are 26 times more likely to be incarcerated than their non-Indigenous peers and this continued to spiral, the organisations said.

“Factors such as childhood trauma, socioeconomic disadvantage, mental health and substance abuse are the main drivers of offending behaviour” she said.

Plenty of mosaics to explore

A NEW brochure showing the Malanda Mosaic Trail has been released.

Tablelands Regional Council’s updated trail brochure shows where the nine mosaics are within the town.

“Our nine beautiful mosaics have been around since 1998 and depict the rich history and vibrant culture of the town,” Deputy Mayor Dave Bilney said.

“We’ve recently updated the brochure with a new map and colourful layout.

“Whether you’re a history enthusiast, art lover or simply want to stretch your legs, the Malanda Mosaic Trail is a real drawcard for visitors to our region.”

The updated brochure can be picked up at information centres or downloaded from www.trc.qld. gov.au/malanda-mosaic-trail.

TRC Deputy Mayor Dave Bilney with the new mosaic trail brochure.

Major upgrades to water mains A $1.3 million contract has been awarded to further progress Mareeba Shire’s plan to replace ageing water infrastructure.

At the last meeting of the year, council awarded A&B Civil a $1.386 million contract for the supply and installation of a new water main on sections of Byrnes Street, Lloyd Street, Walsh Street, Middlemiss Street and Hort Street.

Some of the water infrastructure in Mareeba is more than 60 years old and council has been strategically replacing and upgrading the water network to ensure essential services are maintained as part of its Water Strategy.

“The Water Strategy identified approximately 90km of water mains across the shire that need to be replaced over the next 30 years and could cost up to $100 million, potentially more with inflation,”

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Mareeba Mayor Angela Toppin said.

“We are currently six years into the plan to renew the water network in Mareeba, with approximately 22km of water mains replaced throughout Mareeba Shire since 2019 at a cost of approximately $7 million.”

In December, Mareeba experienced several major water main breaks which temporarily impacted water supply for residents and businesses in the town.

“Stage 2 of the Water Main Replacement Project will provide greater water security for residents, and we thank the community in advance for their patience when these works begin in the new year,” Mayor Toppin said.

The project will be completed by 30 June 2025.

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PUTTING VICTIMS FIRST

ADULT CRIME ADULT TIME

New laws are now in place to make Queensland safer.

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The Express, Wednesday January 15 2025 PAGE 11

Our Council Our Community

Volunteers Wanted, Needed & Appreciated

Our Community Revegetation Nursery grows more than 300 locally native plant species for revegetation projects. We welcome volunteers on Tuesdays and Thursdays to process seeds, pot seedlings, move stock, conduct maintenance, clean, and maintain records and enter data.

Herberton Mining Centre

The Great Northern Mine in Herberton was once the heart of a booming tin industry and the Herberton Mining Centre now provides stories of those early days.

You can share the rich history of the Herberton area by volunteering at the centre.

Community

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

PAGE 12 The Express, Wednesday January 15 2025

Find Out More & Register Find out more about volunteering with TRC by stopping in at an information centre, gallery, museum or nursery. Our friendly staff and volunteers are happy to provide further details and insight into the range of opportunities.

If you’re interested in our Community Disaster Teams, email us at trcd@trc.qld.gov.au or call 1300 362 242.

You can also find out more and register at trc.qld.gov.au/volunteer. ining Centre

Support local artists and enjoy being part of a creative space by volunteering at one of our three art galleries — Tableland Regional Gallery, Old Post Office Gallery and Foyer Gallery.

Community Revegetation Nursery

on M

Galleries

We have five information centres that provide friendly and comprehensive visitor information services. Volunteers at our centres promote our region and use their local knowledge and advice to enhance visitors’ experiences.

We have community disaster teams in Herberton, Malanda, Millaa Millaa, Mount Garnet, Ravenshoe, Tinaroo/ Kairi and Yungaburra. These groups of passionate locals work with the Local Disaster Coordination Centre before, during and after disasters to ensure a two-way flow of information between the Local Disaster Management Group and community.

The level of involvement and roles in the team are based on your individual skills and experience.

rb er t

TRC volunteers are integral to the promotion and smooth running of our galleries, information centres, museum and nursery, and for disaster preparedness, response and recovery.

You don’t need to have any particular skills to be a TRC volunteer as we provide training and ongoing support.

The days, times and hours you volunteer depend on what you can offer and the opening hours of our facilities.

Disaster Teams

He

TRC Volunteers

Information Centres

at

Volunteers are the backbone of our community, offering their time and skills to support a range of organisations, causes and initiatives.

Their tireless efforts in sporting clubs, community groups, committees, support services and other places in the community helps our region thrive.

Volunteering is not just about giving.

Volunteers have the chance to meet new people, make a difference to our community, promote our region, and spend time with like-minded people.

©M

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Customer service centres in Atherton, Herberton, Malanda and Ravenshoe www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

MALANDA CUP RACE MEET

HYPNOTIC CONFIDENCE Are You An Imposter?

Morrow Park 11 January

Hi there and welcome to my new column, Hypnotic Confidence. I’m Dave, a Cairns-based Certified Clinical Hypnotherapist and Hypnotic Life Coach.

Ben and Katie Bensilum (right) enjoyed the afternoon.

Hypnotherapy offers a powerful avenue to address the underlying subconscious beliefs that can sabotage your mental wellbeing.

It works by communicating directly with the most powerful and creative part of your mind, putting you back in charge of your own thoughts and responses.

The great thing is that hypnotherapy can be used to change almost any current behaviour you are unhappy with.

The beliefs that restrict us and prevent us from reaching our true potential are all at some point learnt at a subconscious level.

Navarre DeLai and Brydie Genge enjoyed the Malanda Cup meeting at Morrow Park.

By communicating directly your subconscious mind, I can help you reframe negative thought patterns, build self-confidence, and break free from the cycle that is holding you back. You can embark on a journey toward self-acceptance and empowerment, recognising your true worth and embracing your achievements without fear or hesitation.

Mellissa Brincat and Timeah Archer at the races on Saturday.

With the majority of the people I’ve helped over the years, regardless of their main issue – substance abuse, anger, unhealthy eating, nightmares, insomnia, trauma and severe anxiety, amongst others – I’ve found there was one common denominator: They suffered from a lack of self-esteem and confidence.

One common condition that is caused by a lack of confidence is Imposter Syndrome.

Georgia Doull and Jas Heales were having fun at the event.

Gavin Smith and Donna Gandini donned their hats to attend the races.

This internal struggle can get in the way of personal and professional growth. It can lead to stress, anxiety, substance abuse and depression – and prevent individuals from achieving their full potential. While various therapeutic approaches exist to tackle imposter syndrome, hypnotherapy has gained attention for its ability to address the underlying subconscious patterns that contribute to these feelings of inadequacy.

Are you an employer in a remote community or want to become one?

Imposter Syndrome often comes from deep-seated beliefs and conditioning,

Imposter syndrome is not tied to a person’s actual ability or competence. Many high-achieving individuals, including professionals, academics, and creatives, experience these feelings. Traditional therapeutic approaches can be effective, but hypnotherapy offers a unique pathway to change these subconscious beliefs.

Imposter syndrome can be a huge barrier to personal and professional growth, but there is a solution. Why don’t you contact me for a FREE online strategy session. Together we can look at working on your individual roadmap to recovery and a more fulfilled life. You can contact me on 0401 223780 or support@confidencecontrol. com.au Dave is a Cairns-based Clinical Hypnotherapist and Hypnotic Life Coach who works online. He is university educated and vocationally trained in delivering evidence-based psychoeducation, including CBT and Solution-Focused Therapy. He is a clinical member of the Australian Guild of Hypnotherapists (GoAH) and the Hypnotherapy Council of Australia (HCA). His website is: www.confidencecontrol.com.au

Lacking Confidence?

Anxious?

Stressed?

Hypnotherapy could be the answer.

You can apply for a grant to create new jobs in your community, through the Remote Jobs and Economic Development (RJED) program.

This is the first stage in replacing the Community Development Program (CDP).

Grants will support eligible employers to employ local people in new jobs by funding wages and equipment.

Hypnotherapy is a powerful, proven method that can change your negative thought patterns and subconscious beliefs which are disrupting your mental wellbeing.

To apply or find out more – visit www.niaa.gov.au/remote-jobs call 1800 079 098 or visit your local NIAA office.

It works by communicating directly with the most powerful and creative part of your mind, putting you back in charge of your own thoughts and responses.

With hypnotherapy, you can change almost any current behaviour that you are unhappy with.

Hypnotherapy can help with the following: XC1000_RJED_NIAA_186x129

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

Imposter syndrome is a psychological condition in which individuals doubt their abilities, feeling like frauds despite their success and competence. It often shows up as an ongoing fear of being “found out” or exposed as a “fake”.

frequently originating in childhood. For instance, individuals who grew up in highly competitive environments or were subject to constant comparisons might internalise beliefs that their best efforts are never enough. These beliefs can lead to a distorted self-perception, causing people to minimise their achievements and live in constant fear of failure.

Anxiety | Alcohol and Drug Habits | Allergies | Anger Issues | Bad Habits | Bereavement Blushing | Bruxism (teeth grinding) | Depression | Fears | Guilt | Headaches | Insomnia Jealousy | Migraines | Motivation | Nail Biting | Nightmares | Pain Relief | Performance Anxiety Phobias | Public Speaking | Sports Performance | Stammering | Trauma | Weight Loss

Contact Dave at ConfidenceControl for a FREE strategy session on 0401 223780 or support@confidencecontrol.com.au https://www.confidencecontrol.com.au/contact-rates/ The Express, Wednesday January 15 2025 PAGE 13

ENTERTAINMENT

Workshops help discover creativity LOCALS can discover their creative potential at Tablelands Regional Council’s range of arts workshops which offer a unique opportunity to hone skills and explore new mediums.

“These workshops are a great opportunity for everyone to have a go, regardless of their skill level or experience,” Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF) Advisory Committee Chair Cr Kevin Cardew said.

“From pottery and podcasting to music and grant writing, our diverse range of classes are led by renowned local and visiting artists dedicated to fostering a vibrant artistic community.

“The workshops are popular so you need to book early to secure your place, and it’s an ongoing program so find out what we have coming up at trc.qld.gov.au/galleries.”

Four-Legged Friends Ceramic Workshop Learn to craft adorable ceramic four-legged friends with Linda Bates. Perfect for beginners and experienced artists alike, this hands-on class guides you through shaping, detailing and

Fundraising events for animal refuge A TRIVIA night and a sausage sizzle will be held by the Mareeba Animal Refuge in Atherton this week to raise funds for their organisation and the rescued animals in their care.

The Trivia Night will be held tomorrow at the Atherton International Club from 7pm.There is a $2 entry fee per person and the event will also include raffles for the chance to win prizes.

The sausage sizzle will be held this Saturday from 8am at Bunnings Atherton. All proceeds from the events will go directly towards supporting the animals in the care of Mareeba Animal Refuge.

glazing your own unique pieces. When: 9am12noon Saturday 18 January. Cost: $35. Book: tablelandsregionalcouncil.eventbrite.com

Ukulele Workshops Join members of the Tableland Ukulele Group and local ukulele enthusiasts for free, fun and collaborative workshops that bring music lovers together. Whether you’re a seasoned player or just starting out, these drop-in sessions are inclusive and welcoming to players of all abilities. When: 2-4pm Saturday 25 January.

Watercolour Workshop This fun, hands-on watercolour painting workshop with Joanne Bingham is tailored to older children and teens. Learn to draw and paint animals, exploring various watercolour techniques to bring your artwork to life.

Joanne’s guidance will boost your creativity and confidence, making it a fantastic experience for beginners and budding young artists alike. When: 10am-1.30pm Saturday 25 January. Cost: $25. Book:

Country music day LOCAL country music will be in the spotlight this Sunday when the Tableland Country Music Club holds its first family day of the year.

The event will be hosted at the Atherton International Club on Sunday from 12 noon to 5pm.

The public can attend the event for free, with food and drinks on sale at the club.

Performers must provide four chord charts for Rusty Strings.

For more information, contact Karen Mahoney on 4095 1008.

tablelandsregionalcouncil.eventbrite.com

Pencil Masterclass This workshop with John Rainbird will teach you the techniques needed to draw lifelike hair and fur using pencil. You’ll learn how to capture texture, depth and detail, bringing both human and animal portraits to life. Perfect for artists of all skill levels, this session will elevate your drawing skills to the next level. When: 10am2.30pm Saturday 8 February. Cost: $75. Book: tablelandsregionalcouncil.eventbrite.com Free Grant Writing Workshop This course will provide an overview of what’s needed to write a successful grant in the competitive arena of arts funding. As well as the basics, it will include: understanding the Smarty Grants system ; how to create the budget; key tips; peer assessors and how applications are assessed; and a five-week plan for writing a grant. When: 10am-2pm Thursday 27 March.

Book: trc.qld.gov.au/register-workshop.

Learn to play the ukulele at a free workshop being held in Atherton.

Fun-Guy Ceramic Workshop Craft whimsical ceramic mushrooms in this workshop with Linda Bates that is perfect for all skill levels. The hands-on class will guide you through shaping, detailing and glazing your own fungi creations. Design charming and unique mushrooms to bring magic to your home or garden. When: 9am-12noon Saturdays 8 and 22 March. Cost: $35. Book: tablelandsregionalcouncil.eventbrite.com from Saturday 8 February.

All workshops are held at the Old Post Office Gallery, 86 Atherton Herberton Road, Atherton.

Big Aussie event

Tiffany Smith got into the spirit of the day at last year’s event.

MONSTER CRUMBED STEAK

With Chips & Gravy

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EVERY THURSDAY

Lunch & Dinner THIS WEEK’S SPECIALS

XXXX Bitter 30 Pack Cans Available at Cellarbrations Bottleshops: $60.00 Jim Beam Double Centre Cellars Mareeba, Mareeba Plaza Serve Black 10 Packs Cellars and the Graham Hotel Drive Thru. $60.00

187 Byrnes St, Mareeba P: 4092 2588

JOKER JACKPOT 7.00PM

TOAD races, thong-throwing and a host of other fun activities await at Malanda this Australia Day. The annual celebrations at The Big Pub will kick off from 12 noon, featuring the ever-popular toad races, with the first heat

kicking off at 12.30pm.

A thong throwing competition will also be held - for the adults and children - and there are prizes for the Best Dressed female and male, as well as face painting and live music.

For more information call 4096 7720.

Atherton to host comedy show SOME of Australia’s funniest stand-up comedians will be on show at the Atherton International Club this Friday from 7pm.

The night will feature performances from Bev Killick and Doug Chappel, two of Melbourne’s top comedians who both have over 20 years of industry experience.

Bev is known for her regular appearances at the Melbourne International Comedy Festival and Doug has headlined all major comedy

venues in Australia.

The night will also feature Michael ‘Crawf’ Crawford and Macca Melody, two local comedians who are fast on the rise in the Australian Comedy scene.

Both have struck a chord with local audiences due to their unique Far North Queensland sense of humour.

Tickets are $20, to book visit www.trybooking. com/CYCUQ

ATHERTON PERFORMING ARTS PRESENTS

JULIUS C CAESAR WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE’S

Friday Nights TAB LUCKY LOSER

4pm Saturday Afternoon

PAGE 14 The Express, Wednesday January 15 2025

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

AFT ER

BE FO RE

Cemetery volunteers celebrated VOLUNTEERS who have spent countless hours cleaning and painting graves at the Mareeba Pioneer Cemetery over the past year have been recognised for their contribution.

Around 60 people gathered at a celebratory luncheon recently to be recognised for volunteering to clean and paint 1100 graves at the old cemetery, transforming the dirty and mouldy headstones to a sea of gleaming white.

Organiser Michael Musumeci hosted the event and, with the help of Cr Lenore Wyatt, presented each volunteer with a

specially-made medal and certificate.

The quest to return the iconic site to its former glory started in 2023, with the first part of the project aimed at people coming along to either visit their family graves or try to locate the many unmarked graves throughout the cemetery comparing records.

“This was also an opportunity for others to come along with photos of their loved ones and share their stories. These stories were then shared on the Mareeba History Facebook, collating as many as we could put together, and that continues

to this day,” Michael said.

“A large majority of the graves already had been painted many years ago so to bring them back to their original state had to be researched as to how best we could do that.”

Commencing in September 2023, volunteers from Mareeba, Kuranda, Dimbulah, and Atherton started to arrive.

“During the time of the project, we have had more than 85 volunteers come and help clean the graves from the all the mould and then paint them by hand.”

All graves will eventually be given

three coats of paint to ensure it lasts.

Michael said the volunteers, from all walks of life and ages, had endured heat, cold and rain to come out to the cemetery on Saturdays to undertake the work and shown true respect for those who were interned there.

“Most of the graves, are over 100 years of age. They now look absolutely phenomenal now and the cemetery is back to its full glory,” he said.

He said watching volunteers clean and paint the graves had truly been inspirational.

“Every grave is treated with the utmost of respect,” Michael said.

“None of this could have been achieved without the generosity of the in-kind support from our growing number of volunteers, businesses and individuals who have also donated money, paint and their valuable time towards this project.”

There are still some graves left to clean and paint and anyone who wishes to help can keep track of the project through the Mareeba History Facebook page.

Ann and Ian Leighton at the celebratory luncheon.

Karen and Ron Blakeney.

Olly Alston (right) with Raymond and Julie Moss.

Bailee and Dale Peebles joined the gathering of volunteers.

Pippa McLean (left) and Karen Denyer are proud to be volunteers at the cemetery.

Helen Chen with Barry McElligott.

Joan and Brian Masterton enjoyed the gathering.

Lee and Irene McDermott.

Peter Walsh and Helen Malcolm at the lunch.

Carol Alston and Lyn Blain enjoyed the catchup with other volunteers.

Paul Johnstone and Tony Alston enjoyed a chat at the lunch.

Cr Lenore Wyatt caught up with Andy Malcolm at the lunch.

Organiser Michael Musumeci and his dad, Gino, at the gathering to recognise the volunteers.

Long-time volunteer Doug Fox was celebrated at the lunch for his contribution.

Fay McGrath and Betty Bird show off the specially made medals given to the volunteers.

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

The Express, Wednesday January 15 2025 PAGE 15

ON LAND the

AI irrigation system heralds new era Cyclone A SMART irrigation system powered by artificial intelligence will tell sugarcane farmers when and where to water their crops in an advance that could one day revolutionise agriculture – and help preserve the health of the Great Barrier Reef.

Developed by Victoria’s La Trobe University for Far North Queensland ag-tech company Aglantis, the intelligent irrigation system uses the Internet of Things to automate water pump management and monitor sunlight, temperature and humidity levels without human interaction.

The system was initially conceived as a project to improve land management and prevent fertiliser run-off from farms into the Great Barrier Reef, but with new technology making smart irrigation more affordable, Aglantis managing director Luke Malan said the potential of the product was almost limitless.

In addition to saving water, future AI additions could teach the system how to conserve energy, responding to solar or energy tariffs. It could also examine soil profiles and make intelligent choices around crop selection and yields.

“It essentially takes the guesswork out of farming,” Luke said.

“With growing pressures on profitability, it’s more imperative to know what you’re doing and how you can do it better. This flips conventional thinking on its head and opens the doorway to new possibilities.”

Professor Wei Xiang, Cisco Research Chair and director of La Trobe

University’s Cisco Centre for AI and the Internet of Things (IoT), said the smart irrigation system was the centre’s first commercial product and showed how industry could drive research to tangible and groundbreaking results.

La Trobe is already working with the Australian Institute of Marine Science (AIMS), creating the world’s first AIpowered three-dimensional digital twin of the Great Barrier Reef to monitor its health.

The new smart irrigation system – developed in a one-metre plastic tub housed in the Digital Innovation Hub at La Trobe’s Melbourne campus – further enhances the University’s reputation in the AI research space.

The university recently announced its bold ambition to transform research, education, student support and business operations by applying an “AI-first” approach.

“Now we’ve proven the technology, the next step is to add additional features to improve productivity and crop yields through leveraging cutting-edge AI technology,” Professor Xiang said.

“This will make farming on the whole more sustainable.”

IoT researchers Kamyar Karimi and Aravindan Madasamy, who developed the system for La Trobe under the supervision of Professor Xiang, said it would reduce labour costs, increase water efficiency and allow more precision in farm decision-making.

Ultimately, the system design could include intelligent sequencing

grants extended

Andrew Castelanelli (left) operating the smart Irrigation system with Aglantis regional manager Barry Cross.

to determine the perfect order of irrigation across different farm sections, predictive maintenance and continuous learning from historical data, seasonal patterns and crop responses.

“This technology represents a major shift towards data-driven, sustainable agriculture where AI and IoT optimise every drop of water for maximum farming efficiency,” Kamyar said.

Aravindan said the development of the smart irrigation system was a transformative step forward for farmers.

“By automating labour-intensive processes and putting control in the hands of advanced technology, farmers can save time, conserve resources and focus on other priorities without the stress of manual management,” he explained The system features an ultra-compact design and precision valve control adjustable to any degree.

It is currently installed on an 80-hectare plot of Mark and Andrew Castelanelli’s farm in the Burdekin region near Townsville.

For Mark, who has been a sugarcane farmer for 55 years, smart irrigation heralds the future of farming.

Mark said while other smart systems had been on the market for a few years, this was the first that had been purposebuilt for the sugarcane industry.

The veteran farmer previously racked up 15,000km each year driving to irrigate crops within a 6km radius on his farm.

Mark said using the smart system to irrigate with precision would save labour costs, increase efficiency and leave time to focus on other things.

“There’s endless opportunity and the power of computing is just getting smarter,” he said.

CANEGROWERS has welcomed the Queensland Government’s decision to extend disaster recovery grant applications for primary producers impacted by Cyclone Jasper.

The decision, which extends applications until 30 June 2025 – well after the 2024 harvest season has concluded – will provide sugarcane growers and communities across Far North Queensland with the time necessary to recover and rebuild following the cyclone’s widespread devastation.

The Extraordinary Disaster Assistance Recovery Grants program has been a lifeline for those impacted, but many growers have faced challenges accessing funding due to the scale of damage, ongoing contractor shortages, and delays in completing essential recovery work.

“This extension is a practical response to the realities faced by growers across Far North Queensland where contractors are in extremely short supply,” Canegrowers CEO Dan Galligan said.

“It will give farming communities the breathing room they need to complete vital recovery works and secure funding that will help them move forward after such a challenging time.”

Canegrowers encourages all eligible growers and businesses across the region to take advantage of the extended application period by visiting the Queensland Rural and Industry Development Authority website at qrida.gov.au

Ag event a first for First Nations 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.

FARMERS, AgTech innovators and industry stakeholders in Queensland’s agricultural sector are being encouraged to take part in the first-ever First Nationsled AgTech showcase being held in Cairns on 10-11 February.

The Millennia of Ag-Innovation event will explore the intersection of traditional knowledge and cutting-edge agricultural technologies.

The showcase aims to highlight groundbreaking First Nations initiatives and demonstrate how the fusion of traditional practices with modern AgTech can drive sustainable advancements across the sector.

TNQ Drought Hub Director Professor David Phelps said the Millennia of AgInnovation event, which is being funded

by AgriFutures Australia, was part of a larger effort to spotlight First Nations

innovation and collaboration within the industry.

“The event aims to bring together First Nations farmers, contemporary producers, and AgTech developers to advance sustainable agricultural practices and showcase the innovative technologies shaping the future of our region,” Professor Phelps said.

“It offers a unique opportunity for attendees to connect with key players in both the agriculture and AgTech sectors, while gaining insights into the crucial role traditional knowledge plays in promoting sustainable practices.

“With a program covering livestock, cropping, and aquaculture, the event offers valuable opportunities for learning, innovation, and sustainable growth for both farmers and AgTech developers alike.”

The event will feature live AgTech showcases, installations and interactive workshops, culminating in a cultural evening hosted by Local Indigenous Food Enterprise Services and BushTukkaWoman, Samantha Martin with a traditional dinner and performance by the Gimuy Yidinji tribe.

Attendees will also explore Indigenousled innovations at the Rainstick facility, a networking breakfast at James Cook University’s Ideas Lab, and demonstrations of TEKFARM’s cuttingedge on-farm deployments across the Cairns Hinterland.

The event is part of a pre-tour for evokeAG, the Asia-Pacific’s premier agricultural and food technology event, taking place in Brisbane on 18-19 February.

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mal,indra /se

I

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PAGE 16 The Express, Wednesday January 15 2025

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

ON LAND the

Remarkable recovery for redclaw operation JUST one year after the devastating floods that wreaked havoc across the region, Barron River Redclaw has announced a remarkable recovery with 70% of the farm’s damage repaired and a renewed vision for sustainable aquaculture in the future.

The catastrophic flooding event that followed Tropical Cyclone Jasper in late 2023 left the farm in ruins, with damaged infrastructure, eroded ponds and significant stock losses.

However, after months of determination in the face of adversity, the farm has not only rebuilt but is now preparing to harvest sustainable redclaw products in the new year.

Mr. Rodney Ingersoll OBE, owner and operator of Barron River Redclaw, led the recovery efforts with an unbreakable spirit.

“I live in the future and see things as completed,” Mr Ingersoll said.

“I stand firm through challenges, follow my heart, and

remain committed to creating a sustainable path forward for agriculture and food security.

“The farm was formerly a barramundi farm, but after losing all our stock to the river during the floods, I pivoted the all-farming operations to redclaw crayfish.

“Despite having zero income from agriculture over the past 12 months, I’ve pushed on and focused on teaching others how to grow their own food sustainably, whether through aquaculture, aquaponics, or permaculture.

“This is about building resilience, not just for myself but for others facing similar challenges,” he said.

Over the past year, Mr. Ingersoll has worked tirelessly to; repair critical infrastructure, restoring 70% of the farm to operational status; restock the ponds with redclaw; reinvent business operations; and begin offering consulting services to help communities and individuals adopt sustainable

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Atherton Tablelands to Cairns

Mr Ingersoll with his breeder redlcaw.

food production techniques.

“At TNQ Drought Hub, we are dedicated to strengthening agricultural resilience and creating partnerships that empower communities across Tropical North Queensland,” TNQs Agricultural Innovation and Commercialisation leader Tony Matchett said.

“Working with Rodney and Barron River Redclaw to support his innovation journey has been an inspiring example of how collaboration and determination can lead to lasting solutions in food security and sustainability,” he said.

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

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The first harvest of Mr Ingersoll’s redclaw is set to begin soon, marking an important milestone in the farm’s recovery journey.

“Our recovery is not just about rebuilding what we lost, it’s about creating a stronger, more sustainable future. Sometimes you need to slow down to speed up,” Mr Ingersoll said.

“This has been one of the toughest challenges of my life, but with the support of my family, the community, and our partners, Barron River Redclaw is stronger than ever.”

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“Traditionally producers are looking for a break in the season in late spring, and dry seasonal conditions across much of the state this spring will have weighed on producers’ minds,” he said.

“The early signs are good for a wet summer, with promising forecasts, which will be giving producers hope for the coming months. In the latter part of November – after the survey’s completion – there was significant rain across Queensland, to the point that the month of November had average to above-average rainfall for most of the state.”

Mr James also noted producers were holding concerns about a number of geopolitical situations.

“Many Queensland agricultural products – including sugar, grain and beef – are destined for international markets,” he said.

“Producers are keenly aware that political unrest in overseas markets can have direct impacts on local prices and access to farm inputs,” he said.

The survey found dry seasonal conditions were also cited as a concern for many respondents, as were higher input costs, government intervention/policies and the state of overseas markets/economies.

For the state’s beef producers, Mr James said, the survey found the majority (61%, up from 50% previously) expect agribusiness conditions to remain unchanged in the year ahead.

“Beef producers listed good seasonal conditions, the prospect of rising prices and opportunities in international markets as the chief factors that will have a positive impact on the agricultural economy in the year ahead,” he said.

Mr James said Australian cattle prices had remained at relatively stable levels in 2024.

“And while cattle prices haven’t hit the highs of 2021 and 2022, it’s important to keep in mind that prices in those years were extraordinary and not sustainable,” he said.

“Despite the recent surge in beef production, prices have remained steady, offering some reassurance to Queensland beef producers as they plan for the upcoming year.”

Although sentiment among Queensland sugar growers improved this quarter, it remained the weakest compared to other commodity sectors.

Saturday, Sunday and Pub Holidays

Departs Atherton

6.00am

9.15am

1.00pm

8.00am

1.30pm

Departs Mareeba

6.30am

9.45am

1.30pm

8.30am

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Departs Speewah

6.50am

10.05am

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8.50am

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Departs Kuranda

7.15am

10.25am

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9.10am

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Departs rainforest

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10.30am

2.15pm

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2.45pm

8.50am

11.15am

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10.00am

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Arrives Cairns

Cairns to Atherton Tablelands Route 850

Monday to Friday

Saturday, Sunday and Pub Holidays

Departs Cairns

7.00am

9.25am

3.30pm

10.30am

4.00pm

Departs Smithfield

7.20am

9.45am

3.50pm

10.50am

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Departs Kuranda

7.40am

10.05am

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Departs Speewah

8.00am

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Departs Mareeba

8.20am

10.45am

4.50pm

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Arrives Atherton

8.50am

11.15am

5.20pm

12.10am

5.50pm

No services operate Good Friday, Anzac Day and Christmas Day

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Survey reveals improved outlook for producers QUEENSLAND’S primary producers bucked the national trend in the past quarter of 2025, recording a slightly improved outlook heading towards the end of the year, the latest quarterly Rural Confidence Survey found.

The quarter four survey, released in mid-December, found Queensland rural sentiment had edged up to now hover around “neutral” at a net reading of -1% – from -4% last quarter – and tracking well above the levels reported in the latter half of 2022 and throughout 2023.

And recent significant rainfall since the survey was in the field is likely to have boosted rural sector confidence further, according to Rabobank acting state manager Brad James.

The survey found while the proportion of the state’s producers expecting the agricultural economy to improve remained relatively steady at 18% (19% last survey), a smaller number expected conditions to worsen (19% from 22%). And the majority, at 60%, anticipate stable conditions.

The survey found Queensland producers were most bullish about seasonal conditions – nominated as a cause for optimism by 43% (up from 37%) – and rising commodity prices (32%, up from 30% previously).

Queensland and WA were the only states to record a lift in rural confidence this quarter, with sentiment taking a hit in all other states – with farmers citing concerns about seasonal conditions as the chief reason for their pessimistic outlook.

By region, the Rabobank survey found confidence picked up across all areas – except the Darling Downs where it posted a small drop-off – with confidence strongest in the South West/Central West/Channel Country followed by the Central Highlands and Central Queensland.

While sentiment also improved in Northern Queensland, this region lagged behind other parts of the state.

Mr James said while Queensland producer sentiment had edged up slightly, “this survey’s almost neutral level of confidence shows that producers are waiting to see what sort of summer will unfold across the state”.

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The Express, Wednesday January 15 2025 PAGE 17

MENTAL e th to LETTERS editor HEALTH EMAIL editorial@theexpressnewspaper.com.au

No proof CO2 is the cause

I THANK David Blake (The Express 18/12/24) for the reference to the APS. It was an interesting referral.

I point out however that the reference he mentioned is a “National Policy Statement” not a research paper.

I also point out that the statement relies heavily on evidence from IPPC reports. None of the references provide any proof that CO2 causes climate change, all the references quoted in the statement express, from various angles, arguments that climate change has an anthropogenic component.

I have never argued that climate change is not influenced by anthropogenic factors, only that there is no proof that CO2 is the cause, apparently Peter does not understand the difference and yet he accuses me of not providing a logically consistent argument!

Perhaps Peter would be interested in looking at statistics from “Our World Data.” He will find that world energy consumption has increased from 28,000 TWh in 1950 to 177,000 TWh in 2023, which is a sixfold increase.

The increase is due to a trebling of the population and the ever-increasing reliance on energy to power our lifestyle. (Incidentally the combined wind and solar energy contribution to production in 2023 was about 6%).

Whatever physical law you wish to quote, energy production and consumption produces heat which must go somewhere.

How that impacts on climate is a huge debate involving factors we can only theorise on.

The only way we can do anything about the huge energy consumption is to stop having babies and to stop using so much energy to continue our chosen, consumption-based economy, and lifestyle.

I can’t see that being a political winner, so we will just stick to doing something which has no useful impact but makes us feel we have solved the problem.

Bruce Jones MAREEBA

Climate fear a power grab

FOR those who came in late to the climate and energy debate in this small remnant of old-media that still permits free speech, David Blake (The Express, 18/12/24) makes his living from solar panels and claims to have a PhD in physics. I verified the solar panels part but I never found proof of the PhD claim.

David has been unable to understand a simple explanation that uses some of the laws of physics that relate to gases and the radiation of energy which proves from first principles that CO2 cannot “trap heat”.

That explanation was originally provided to me many years earlier by a physics professor.

David is promoting the “Dunning-Kruger effect” which is a very common left-wing projection and has a vested interest in spreading CO2 misinformation and disinformation because without it he wouldn’t be able to sell solar panels. Without the globalists’ CO2-warming industrial complex and its endless fear campaign, mostly targeted at impressionable children, there’d be little future for solar panels.

We’ve all seen the dramatic rise in electricity prices since 2005, when the globalist-owned Labor-Liberal UNiparty forced wind and solar into the grid. If wind and solar were cheaper, as Blackout Bowen keeps repeating on an endless, mindless loop, electricity prices would be coming down.

Doug Burchell (The Express, 18/12/24), should join Paddy Forsayeth on the comedy stage. Doug says: “I actually took the time to find out what all Campion’s laws were about, discovered that they had practically nothing to do with climate, but couldn’t come up with a decent response.”

Doug: those laws describe molecules intercepting and reradiating heat energy. The core of the “climate” argument hinges on CO2 intercepting heat and reradiating it endlessly. Just because you’ve been told it

can do that doesn’t make it true. Those who tell the Big CO2 Lie counted on you not understanding those laws.

David Blake could use his self-professed physics skills to explain how those same laws prove that atmospheric CO2 can intercept heat and just reradiate it forever. If he could do that when nobody else on Earth can, the globalists behind the CO2-warming industrial complex would reward him beyond his wildest dreams.

All the normal people reading this have now seen 42 years of failed climate disaster predictions while the world’s politicians have used fear to expand their powers endlessly and the rich have become richer at the expense of the rest of us.

The whole climate alarm narrative depends on armwaving assertions repeated loudly in a manner that would make Joseph Goebbels blush. As my favourite journalist, HL Mencken said: “The whole aim of practical politics is to keep the populace alarmed (and hence clamorous to be led to safety) by menacing it with an endless series of hobgoblins, all of them imaginary.”

Peter Campion TOLGA

Right to protect your home

WHEN is it going to end? The constant destruction of people’s property in Mareeba.

Camera evidence, personal visual evidence, lived experiences and no doubt police knowledge points to young indigenous.

In the last couple of days alone, there’s been stolen cars, home invasions, destruction of business premises and theft. Everyone has had a gut full - it’s so pointless, it achieves nothing, is it supposed to?

A major portion of the Mareeba township are anxious every night, some live in outright fear, scared witless, leave lights on all night, and these are facts.

We are constantly told that if we retaliate we could be at fault, and prosecuted. While I’m at it, hang the expense, start getting permanent police tracker dogs out to areas like Mareeba so offenders can be immediately tracked instead of melting into the night and freedom.

There’s always been a defence based on “necessary” force and “reasonable belief” that there’s an intent to commit a crime. 2024 Criminal Code amendments seem to clear the issue a bit by saying what is lawful for occupants (home owners) to do but then goes on to say that we can’t act unless it’s at night or unless the offender uses or threatens actual violence or unless he is or pretends to be armed etc.

No, no David Crisafulli that’s not good enough, it’s not “unless” at all, the fact that an intruder unlawfully ENTERS our property, day or night, should ipso facto allow us to automatically believe, to ASSUME, without further ado, threats or pretences, or actual violence or that the intruder is armed and intends to commit an indictable offence etc.

That’s it. Why? Because that’s exactly how we think and feel when confronted.

We make those assumptions automatically based simply on the fact that our “Castle” is being unlawfully intruded upon. We must be allowed to retaliate without fear of prosecution.

An intruder MUST FORFEIT any excuse/claim/ right of action, everything, the moment he deliberately enters premises/property unlawfully. End of story.

For too long, we have suffered and still suffer. If the new “castle doctrine” legislation amendments are in place and if they haven’t been published with such force that every would-be crook knows that the consequences of his/her unlawful entry will be a reception not to their liking, then spread the word over every media outlet possible.

Premier, a genuine question – how will your Youth Crime Task Force help in a case like this incident which happened here just a couple of days ago?

A lone woman wakes at some ungodly hour of the night and confronts a youth at her front door, she soon realises there’s another one at a side door of her home, she’s petrified, she screams at the youth and threatens police so they take off and disappear and, understandably, can never be tracked.

Download for FREE from iTunes or Google Play PAGE 18 The Express, Wednesday January 15 2025

She’s now a nervous wreck, sleeps with lights on all night. The criminal must no longer be allowed to brazenly unlawfully intrude on our property with the knowledge that the occupant risks prosecution for retaliating.

They have to know it is a dangerous venture. No doubt you will fob me off in favour of the rights of the criminal but I urge you to consider my view seriously for it may well be that a lot of people agree with me.

Barry Braes MAREEBA

Temps reflect climate shift

2023 was the hottest year on record. 2024 was second.

The 10 hottest years on record have all been in the last decade. These temperature records go back 145 years to 1880 (https://qz.com/1055629/why-does-all-ourclimate-data-start-in-1880).

It’s an extraordinary statistic and one that highlights the speed and severity with which our climate is moving towards tipping points we will not be able to reverse.

It also highlights the abject failure of virtually every government everywhere to do enough to actually reduce our emissions.

It should be clear by now that cannibal capitalism and the corporate empire will happily consume us, the planet and all life for greater profits and equally clear that our so-called democracy can’t or won’t do anything about it.

It falls on us.

Jeremy Tager TOPAZ

Group making a difference

IN 2024, the Mareeba Friends of the Hospital Foundation proudly funded several vital equipment requests, leading to improved outcomes for both patients and hospital staff.

Sadly, 2024 saw the loss of two of Mareeba’s passionate health care supporters, Robyn Boundy and Mick Borzi. Both individuals dedicated themselves wholeheartedly to safeguarding the hospital’s future and fostering its development. Their dedication and contributions have left a lasting legacy, and we honour their memory as we continue their important work.

The Friends of the Hospital Foundation exists thanks to the dedication of its committed team of volunteers. Their passion and hard work play a crucial role in turning the Foundation’s vision of delivering quality healthcare close to home into a reality.

From fundraising efforts to providing meaningful non-medical support to patients, our volunteers make a lasting impact. If you’re ready to make a difference in your community and help support exceptional healthcare, we’d love to have you join our team. Contact Patti Crothers (Secretary) at secretarymareebafohf@ gmail.com to learn more and get involved.

The Foundation has come a long way in supporting the hospital with vital equipment, thanks to the generosity of donors, grant funding, and income from initiatives such as donation tins, vending machines at Mareeba Hospital, Sunday bingo, and the hospital trolley.

While we have made significant progress, the journey is far from over. The need for equipment continues to grow. We remain steadfast in our commitment to meeting these needs through ongoing fundraising efforts and the unwavering support of our community.

Sunday Morning Bingo has become a cornerstone of our fundraising efforts, providing an important and sustainable income stream.

It is especially rewarding to receive positive feedback from both staff and patients regarding the impact of funded equipment. Recent examples include the Vesticam Goggles, Video Otoscope, OmiVista Sensory Projection Rehabilitation System, and the Lucas 3 Chest Compression Machine “Together we can make a difference.”

Tom Braes Chair Mareeba Friends of the Hospital Foundation

MINUTE

Starting the year with kindness THE beginning of a new year often feels like turning a fresh page, a time brimming with possibilities. Yet, for many, it can also bring a mix of emotions.

While some dive headfirst into ambitious resolutions, others might grapple with feelings of pressure, disappointment or even sadness as the festive cheer fades.

Here on the Atherton Tablelands, where life moves a little slower and community is everything, it’s the perfect moment to focus on resolutions that inspire hope and spread kindness—to yourself and others.

Setting kind and achievable goals is a great way to start. Grand resolutions can be tempting, but smaller, realistic goals often have a more meaningful impact.

Reflect on what’s manageable for you.

Perhaps it’s improving your self-care routine, starting a daily gratitude journal or making time for a weekly cuppa with a friend.

Remember, change doesn’t have to be dramatic to be meaningful - kindness starts with manageable steps.

Practicing self-compassion is equally vital.

January can bring reflections on past challenges or unmet goals, but it’s important to go easy on yourself. Growth takes time.

Living on the Tablelands, surrounded by rainforest and rolling hills, is a constant reminder that nature doesn’t rush - yet everything gets done in its own time. Celebrate your progress, no matter how small.

Reconnecting with your support network can also ease the transition into the new year.

The holiday season often disrupts routines, including connections with loved ones.

Whether it’s catching up at the markets, walking by Lake Tinaroo, or enjoying coffee at a local café, these moments of connection matter. If isolation lingers, consider exploring online groups or attending community events, you might find support in unexpected places.

Focusing on what brings you joy can counter the post-holiday slump. When the decorations come down and life returns to its routine, make time for activities that truly make you happy.

A swim at a local waterfall, tending your veggie patch or starting a new craft prioritising joy is a great way to ease into the year.

Volunteering is another powerful way to lift your spirits. Helping others not only fills your cup but also strengthens the ties that make the Tablelands such a special place to live.

Supporting local groups or causes can remind you of the power of community and shared purpose.

Using the “clean slate” mindset wisely can also help you navigate this time of year. Instead of aiming for an overwhelming “new year, new you,” see it as a chance to reflect.

What worked last year? Keep it. What didn’t? Let it go. Free yourself from guilt, let go of unrealistic expectations, or step back from toxic relationships—a clean slate can be whatever you need it to be.

Finally, don’t hesitate to seek professional support if the blues linger longer than they should.

Here on the Tablelands, services like counselling, mental health support and recovery groups are readily available. Asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

• The information provided is from Better Together Community Support. This advice may not suit your personal situation and therefore cannot substitute real psychological advice please consult a professional if this has raised issues for you.

Atherton Tablelands & Mareeba 96.7FM Amrun 94.1FM • Aurukun 107.7FM Coen102.7FM • Cooktown 96.9FM Doomadgee 105.3FM Kowanyama 107.7FM Lakeland 100.5FM Lockhart River 107.7FM Mapoon 101.3FM Mornington Island 107.7FM Pormpuraaw 106.1FM Napranum/Weipa 94.5FM Normanton 98.5FM • NPA 91.9FM Woorabinda 99.7FM Wujal Wujal 107.7FM Yarrabah 92.9FM

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PROPERTY

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Own your slice of rural paradise

WELCOME to your own slice of rural paradise, a sprawling 162-acre property that promises a blend of tranquil country living and convenient access to nearby towns.

Located just a short 3km from Tolga Township and 6km from Atherton, this Property offers the best of both worlds, the peace and quiet of rural life coupled with easy reach to essential amenities.

Step onto the property and discover exceptional grazing land, meticulously divided into 5 spacious paddocks adorned with lush gunni, brachi, and abundant glycine.

Each paddock is equipped with water troughs.

The heart of the property is its robust infrastructure, featuring large cattle yards shaded by native trees.

Complete with a crush, weight box and loading ramp, these facilities are perfectly set up for cattle management.

Nestled amidst this picturesque landscape is a charming 3-bedroom, 1-bathroom home with a modern kitchen and pantry. Imagine savouring your morning coffee on the veranda, soaking in panoramic views of the

property stretching towards the distant mountains, a serene spot ideal for relaxation and contemplation.

Additional highlights include several practical sheds for storage and a thoughtfully landscaped low maintenance house yard.

Discover the joy of rural living where every day is an opportunity to appreciate the beauty of nature and

enjoy the comforts of a wellappointed home. This is more than just a property; it’s a lifestyle.

Address: Price: Agent: Contact:

Diane Brennan: Principal www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

Contact Agent $3,600,000 Morgan Brennan Ray White Atherton 0438 090 306 or 4091 7111

Atherton

22 Main Street, Atherton Phone: 4091 7111

PRIVATE AND CLOSE Tolga • 4 Beds, 2 Baths, 1 Car • 4,001m² • Inground pool • Stunning timber deck • Sunroom & open plan living • Spacious 2 bay shed Offers Over $799,000 Suzey Whitby 0438 090 306

For more information on this stunning property, contact agent Morgan Brennan on 0407 730 450.

RURAL LIVING AT ITS FINEST Middlebrook • 3 Beds, 1 Bath, 2 Cars • 82.83 ha • Fully covered concrete cattle yards with vet crush • Secure fenced paddocks • Capacity: 100 AE plus calves $1,350,000 Morgan Brennan 0407 730 450

PRIVATE FAMILY HOME Malanda • 4 Beds, 3 Baths, 1 Car • 3.41 ha • Main house: 3 Beds, 2 Baths • Self-contained unit:1 Bed, 1 Bath • 15m x 5m Saltwater pool • 2 Spring-fed creeks Offers Over $995,000 Suzey Whitby 0438 090 306

ENDLESS POSSIBILITIES Kureen • Vacant land • 5.95 ha • All-weather driveway • Large shed pad ready to build • Access to spring fed creek Offers Over $550,000 Morgan Brennan 0407 730 450

www.raywhiteruralatherton.com.au The Express, Wednesday January 15 2025 PAGE 19

PROPERTY

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Exciting new development in Atherton THIS newly constructed property offers a luxurious and modern living experience and is situated in Atherton’s newest residential subdivision consisting of large 2000m2 blocks and offering a unique living experience within close proximity to Atherton CBD. Step inside and be greeted by the soaring raked ceiling, generous open plan living and a stunning rock feature wall. The outstanding design includes a separate media room, built-in office area, 4 bedrooms with built-in cupboards and quality fixtures and fittings throughout. The inside flows effortlessly to the generous outdoor living area with more stunning stone features including a porphyry stone floor.

Sleek kitchen cabinetry, stone benchtops and endless storage will make cooking and entertaining a breeze in this kitchen which is centrally located to

all living areas. There is a large media room for those who prefer a cosy soundcontrolled environment to enjoy their favourite movies otherwise relax and socialise in the generous open plan living space.

Property Features: •4 Bedrooms all with built-in cupboards •E nsuite with large walk-in shower and stone top wall-

hung vanity •M ain bathroom also features large walk-in shower and stylish vanity •O pen plan living with raked ceiling and expansive glass doors allowing light flow throughout the house •K itchen with stone tops, masses of storage and bench space • Media room • Built-in office nook with

added storage • Internal laundry • Outdoor living with porphyry crazy paving • Large 2040m2 block with plenty of room for a shed • 6400 x 6400 Double lockup garage This home is awaiting completion of some landscaping and external infrastructure, however inside is ready-to-go making

this the perfect time to get in early and snap up this amazing opportunity while it is still available.

Address: Price: Agent: Contact:

Contact exclusive marketing agent Collette Rowston from Raine & Horne Atherton on 0419 733 712 to arrange your private inspection.

188 Rockley Road, ATHERTON Offers over $870,000 EXCLUSIVE to Collette Rowston Raine & Horne Atherton 0419 733 712

Room to move on 5 acres in Arriga CENTRALLY located only 20 minutes from Mareeba or Atherton in Springmount Park this 5 acre lifestyle property is positioned in a cul de sac with picturesque views of the mountains and rural countryside.

The property has access to permanent water from the channel with a 1ML allocation and is fully boundary fenced, split in the middle with 2 rear paddocks plus the following beneficial features: •2 ha (5 acres) with sealed bitumen road access & street lighting in a private bushland setting •S teel framed & colorbond clad 4 bedroom, 2 bathroom home •S plit system airconditioned in the living area & 2 bedrooms •S tylish central kitchen

with island bench/ breakfast bar & stainless steel appliances including a dishwasher • Spacious master bedroom with ensuite • Large main bathroom/ laundry combination • Storage room + built-in hallway storage cupboard • Front patio plus sizeable rear patio • Built-in robes, security screens & window locks • 6kw solar power system + NBN • 5 bay high clearance, powered colorbond shed with multiple power points including a 15amp, led lighting, roof insulation & enclosed, lockable 2 bay Address: Price: Agent: Contact:

section • 1 megalitre water allocation with water points at multiple locations • Rainwater tank & channel water storage tank with pressure pump • Boundary fully dog fenced + electric gated entry • Peaceful & private 2ha with a selection of fruit trees It’s affordable, low maintenance acreage living for those wanting their own space and room for a few horses and cattle to roam.

For more information or to book a private inspection contact exclusive agent Joe Torrisi on 0417 700 468.

104 Macadamia Street, ARRIGA Offers over $695,000 Joe Torrisi Joe Torrisi Real Estate 0417 700 468

OPEN HOME

THIS SATURDAY 10.00AM - 11.00AM 288 Tinaroo Creek Road, Mareeba

• 4 ACRES + 5 BEDROOM, 2 BATH, 2 TOILET HOME • MULTIPLE LIVING AREAS & PATIOS + POOL • 9M X 6M COLORBOND SHED & MANY EXTRAS PRICE: CONTACT AGENT JOE TORRISI 0417 700 468 WWW.JOETORRISI.COM.AU

PAGE 20 The Express, Wednesday January 15 2025

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PROPERTY

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It just has more and more in Mareeba WITH its solid doubleblock construction, spacious four bedroom lay out, and convenient location, this home offers a great opportunity for families and retirees alike.

The large living area boasts plenty of room for the family, with the added bonus of a fireplace to keep cosy in the cooler months. Located off the compact kitchen is the dining space, that opens up to the living area, creating a convenient family space.

All four bedrooms are a great size with built-in cupboards, and the main bedroom is extralarge. There is one bathroom which services the home with an internal laundry.

Outside you can enjoy the quiet location with the front patio or the outdoor entertaining space off the shed, which doubles as a 3 bay carport space.

The 6m x 9m shed is easily accessible down the side and has two roller doors with power.

To find out more or to arrange a private Inspection contact exclusive agent Vince Costas at Central Realty today on 0419 926 691.

• Garden shed • Internal laundry • 3 carport spaces/patio area • Fully fenced 883m2 allotment • Close to town, school and parks

Address: Price: Agent: Contact:

It also has services for a toilet and a shower if needed. There is also a rear yard behind the carports and shed, with an additional garden shed tucked in the back corner.

The fully fenced 883m2 allotment is in a great location

for families. With multiple parks nearby you won’t have to go far for kids sports on the weekends.

The State High school is just up the road, a kindergarten nearby, and the CBD is only a few minutes away.

Property Features:

24 Stewart Street, MAREEBA Offers Over $450,000 EXCLUSIVE to Vince Costas Central Realty 0419 926 691 or 4092 2232

•S olid double-block construction home • 4 bedrooms, all with built-ins, 1 bathroom • Large living space, fireplace • Compact kitchen and dining • 6m x 9m (approx.) shed, powered

5 acre home close to town WHAT a wonderful opportunity to purchase this beautiful 5 acre property. This home is the perfect home for the family, with space to spread out, play cricket, splash in the pool and enjoy the great tropical North Queensland lifestyle.

Ideal for the buyer wanting the rural lifestyle yet still be close to shops, schools and amenities.

This property offers so much opportunity. The 5 acre property is positioned in the 4,000m2 zoning precinct in Atherton allowing potential to subdivide the property subject to council approval.

Property Features: •S olid masonry block home •M odern kitchen with electric appliances, breakfast bar, dishwasher, and plenty of cupboard space.

•S pacious open plan living •4 bedrooms, 3 bedrooms with built in robes •M aster bedroom separate from the main house features an ensuite, walk-in robe and views of the pool.

•S tudy/5th bedroom •M edia/rumpus room • I nternal laundry with a linen cupboard, sink and toilet •R ecently renovated main bathroom with tiles to ceiling, bathtub, separate shower, and a vanity unit •C eiling fans, screens, and plenty of storage throughout •C overed front patio overlooking the front garden •P rivate covered entertainment area •6 0,000L Inground salt water pool with a waterfall •4 bay powered block shed (approx..14m x 7m) •S olar system Save on those electricity bills •N o rear neighbours, property backs onto state forest •1 00 year old trees in rainforest section with a seasonal creek + forest •A ll weather sealed driveway •S eptic, town water •P otential to subdivide subject to council approval • Rare 5 acre allotment ideally located only 2.5km from Atherton Town

Centre.

• Situated in the sought after Atherton Tablelands and known for its cooler climate and excellent rainfall.

Address: Price: Agent: Contact:

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

35-37 Page Road, ATHERTON Offers Over $860,000 EXCLUSIVE to Raquel Cunzolo Sommerset Realty 0408 983 879

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

*Free No Obligation Appraisal

84 Main Street, Atherton QLD. 4883

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

OPEN HOME

Saturd ay January 18th , 10a - 11am m

401 Powley Road, Barrine

WHERE RURAL MEETS WATERFRONT

BED BATH CAR

3

2

7

• 11.09 hectares bordering Lake Tinaroo • Masonry block perfectly positioned to capture breathtaking views • 4 bay 16m x 9m shed with concrete driveway & mezzanine storage

EXPRESSION OF INTEREST For More Information Contact Michelle Raso 0428 116 136 tablelands.eldersrealestate.com.au

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

7/18 Whiting Street, Atherton

BED BATH CAR

AFFORDABLE, COMFORTABLE 2 AND CONVENIENT

1

1

• Charming top floor unit offering unbeatable convenience • Open plan living & modern kitchen with great bench space & storage • In a well-maintained complex with reasonable Body Corp fees

$315,000 For More Information Contact Michelle Raso 0428 116 136 tablelands.eldersrealestate.com.au

A familiar face for Insurance Contact Teresa McKinnon 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.

The Express, Wednesday January 15 2025 PAGE 21

PROPERTY

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

Ultimate lifestyle WELCOME to the ultimate North Queensland lifestyle.

This stunning modern home seamlessly blends contemporary design with classic charm, showcasing polished timber floors, high ceilings, and expansive windows that welcome natural light and refreshing river breezes.

Inside, you’ll discover a spacious open-plan kitchen, dining, and lounge area perfect for gatherings.

With five bedrooms and a dedicated media room, there’s plenty of space for family and friends. The chef’s kitchen is a highlight, equipped with an island bench, stone benchtops, a 90cm gas stove, stainless steel appliances, and a generous walk-in pantry.

The master suite is a true retreat, featuring an oversized bedroom, a large walk-in wardrobe, and a luxurious ensuite, all set in a private wing away from the other bedrooms.

Step outside to your private outdoor oasis, complete with a beautiful timber deck overlooking an in-ground pool and a spacious covered BBQ area.

Enjoy breathtaking views of the Barron River right from your backyard.

OPEN HOME

Saturday 18 January 10am to 10.45am Property Features: • 1,131m2 allotment • 5 bedrooms plus media room, 2 bathrooms • Deluxe master with en-suite and walk-in wardrobe • Modern kitchen with Island bench, stone tops, walk-in pantry • Ceiling fans throughout, AC to living, media and bedrooms • Solar hot water system and 5kW Solar power system Address: Price: Agent: Contact:

• Timber deck overlooks covered BBQ area and inground pool • Frontage to the Barron River, views of the water from your back yard!

Properties with this kind of river frontage are a rare find, so don’t miss your chance to secure this slice of paradise!

Contact exclusive agent Rino Gava on 0427 779 086 or rino@girgentigroup.com 7 River Drive, MAREEBA Offers over $849,000 EXCLUSIVE to Rino Gava Girgenti Real Estate 0427 779 086

Charming cottage in prime Malanda location SURROUNDED by stunning country gardens, this delightful 3 bedroom cottage offers the perfect blend of charm and convenience.

Located just a stone’s throw from schools, shops, showgrounds, and the vibrant main street, this property is ideal for investors or those looking to move straight in.

Property Features: • Three bedrooms with builtin robes •L arge loungeroom with

Relax and enjoy your weekends

carpet •S eparate dining area • Practical kitchen • Internal laundry •S ecurity screens throughout •U ndercover entertaining area •B eautifully maintained Address: Price: Agent:

WITH uninterrupted views of Lake Tinaroo from your very own private patio and a walking track to the water – this unit offers relaxed carefree living.

This two bedroom furnished townhouse is beautifully presented with a compact modern kitchen and easy care floors.

The master bedroom is upstairs and is a very generous size, with room for an office or baby’s cot.

An under-cover car space is also allocated to this unit. There is no work

Contact:

Call Janine on 0407 032 422 for an inspection today.

17 Park Avenue, MALANDA Contact Agent Janine Rielly Elders Real Estate Tablelands 0407 032 422

Contact:

Address: Price: Agent:

country gardens With its prime location and warm, inviting character, this cottage is a rare gem. Don’t miss your opportunity to secure this charming home.

to be done, you can move in immediately and start enjoying the activities, such as fishing, sailing and water skiing or just relax and enjoy the lifestyle on offer here.

Your escape for weekends or weeks on end.

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

TINAROO $215,000 Trisha Jackson Professionals Real Estate Atherton 0419 183 145

BUSINESS AND HOUSE 8 Garne Street

Colle e Rowston 0419 733 712

• HOUSE: 731m2 of land 5 bedrooms, double garage • Office or 2nd living room, operates as an Air bnb • SHOP: WIWO freehold business • Large front showroom, storage rooms • Middle showroom operating as hair salon • Separate room currently rented by therapist

Web ID 26174193 Sale High $300s

Atherton | 4091 1611 24 Main Street, Atherton rh.com.au/atherton PAGE 22 The Express, Wednesday January 15 2025

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

       ­ ­   

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

The Express, Wednesday January 15 2025 PAGE 23

EXPRESS O Wednesday 15th 32° 20°

Thursday 16th 33° 20°

Time m 0342 0.49 1033 3.13 1633 1.25 2208 2.17

Friday 17th 32° 20°

Time m 0418 0.65 1106 2.98 1712 1.35 2243 2.07

first puzzle of 2025, let’s go!

Saturday 18th 32° 20°

Time m 0452 0.88 1137 2.79 1750 1.45 2316 1.95

Sunday 19th 32° 20°

Time m 0522 1.14 1207 2.58 1832 1.54 2354 1.82

Time m 0548 1.41 1234 2.37 1931 1.58

D O Z X H B O T T L E S E X C E P T I O N B W G O P H A C F A U T O M A T I C I L L V C A M Y V E G R J S E Z I C A R T S O Q C O A D E F G E E T X C E N S U S M L X L V N H C N D T N E S U I X Q X D Q E O D A E S E I D R R L K R R N Y V S A W G D I T T U O C O E E A R E F L E C T R B A G Z N E M R P N P P E G E E L C Y C G I B E U E L E D C H A N O Y T C T N E M G A R F K M P R I O Q T H N R H N R P K W O D A H S N M V N S H R I N K T Q A U I Y H Z G L S O O E A Y T F R U E A C C V I R A L Y E W R C E R L J Q U E S T I O N A T T W H V D I E S Y M U I D A T S X A D O T T S W I A V C I M F R A N K A I M X L Z H F J U T E N N R D U S P O R T P R O V I S I O N I R E A O N M B B N U U C C E Z E T H I C S T N U H U T M L E T B L O R T A P S J D N G E N T O P O E A A N B C O U N T E R C E K D M U R D E T B Q C K R A H E H E U C S E R C A G B E D P C G H E S P A L L O C E W X Consumer Counter Cruel Current Cycle Deport Enhance Environmental Ethics Exception

Fragment Frank Garbage Graduate Ground Infect Lodge Nuance Ordinary Ostracize

SUDOKU

HARD

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9

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ACROSS: 1. Maltreat, abuse. (3-3) 4. A person who resides or is present in a house. (8) 10. A tax, such as income tax, which is levied on the income or profits of the person who pays it. (6,3) 11. A group of animals driven or moving in a body. (5) 12. To go down below the surface of something. (4) 13. A strip on printed material or a screen display showing a range of colours. (6,4) 15. A group of advisers, assistants, or others accompanying an important person. (7) 16. More desirable, satisfactory, or effective. (6) 19. An enzyme in the stomach that is involved in breaking down proteins) (6) 21. A small video camera worn on the front of a person’s body. (7) 23. The scientific study of minerals. (10) 25. Change direction suddenly. (4)

Time m 0607 1.92 1000 1.91 1530 2.01 2309 1.39

27. A long, narrow strap attached at one end to a horse’s bit. (5) 28. Pasta made in solid strings, between macaroni and vermicelli in thickness. (9) 29. A star that is used to guide the course of a ship, especially the Pole Star. (8) 30. Move or cause to move rapidly in a circle or spiral. (6) DOWN: 1. Economic activity concerned with the processing of raw materials and manufacture of goods in factories. (8) 2. A pair of glasses or opera glasses held in front of a person’s eyes by a long handle at one side. (9) 3. Affected by physical or mental illness. (4) 5. A conceited foolish person. (7) 6. A person who learns another’s role in order to be able to act at short notice in their absence. (10) 7. A distinctive, typically pleasant smell. (5) 8. Belief in the existence of a god or gods, specifically of a creator who intervenes in the universe. (6) 9. Walk with long, decisive steps in a specified direction.

(6) 14. A trust where the rights of the beneficiaries (unit holders) to income and capital are fixed. (4,6) 17. A group of instrumentalists, especially one combining string, woodwind, brass, and percussion. (9) 18. Spreading a cost out over time. (8) 20. A small keyboard instrument in which felted hammers strike a row of steel plates. (7) 21. Group term for five living members of the genus Panthera. (3,3) 22. Unconcerned with the rightness or wrongness of something. (6) 24. (in classical mythology) a water nymph said to inhabit a river, spring, or waterfall. (5) 26. A call used to greet someone or draw attention to something from a distance. (4)

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

4 7

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

7 6 9 8 1 5 2 4 3

4 2 8 7 6 3 1 5 9

5 3 1 2 9 4 6 8 7

6 4 3 5 2 7 9 1 8

1 9 7 3 8 6 4 2 5

8 5 2 1 4 9 7 3 6

9 1 6 4 5 8 3 7 2

3 8 4 6 7 2 5 9 1

2 7 5 9 3 1 8 6 4

4 2 6 3 8 5 9 7 1

7 3 9 2 1 4 5 6 8

8 5 1 9 6 7 4 3 2

9 1 3 6 7 2 8 4 5

6 8 2 4 5 1 3 9 7

5 7 4 8 3 9 1 2 6

2 6 5 1 4 3 7 8 9

3 9 7 5 2 8 6 1 4

1 4 8 7 9 6 2 5 3

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

PAGE 24 The Express, Wednesday January 15 2025

4

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9 8 7 3 5 5 8 1 2 9 5 1 3

1 6 9 4

3

12

2 7

1

2

9

7

4

Time m 0056 1.71 0314 1.67 1304 2.18 2232 1.51

10

Shrink Sport Stadium Suite Telephone Tread

6 4

2

7 5 4 9

1

Enter digits from 1 to 9 into the blank spaces.

Every row must contain one of each digit.

EASY

3

Patrol Porter Provision Question Recruit Reflect Rescue Retire Sensitive Shadow

Tuesday 21st 32° 21°

CROSSWORD

BIG WORD SEARCH

Album Amputate Authorise Automatic Avant-garde Beach Bottle Census Collapse Complete

Monday 20th 32° 21°

Secret affairs can only lead to devastating circumstances.

Relationships will be emotional this week. You may be overly emotional when dealing with your mate. Opposition is present and you should be prepared to counteract it as best you can.

Do your own thing. Strength will come from your ability to overtake just about any one. You will impress others with your initiative and ability to accomplish while on short business trips. You will be able to work in fine detail and present the best possible proposal.

Your high energy must be directed into productive goals, or frustrations will occur. You may have been trying to do too much, leaving yourself exhausted and open to colds and infections. Your boss may be pushy, try to keep calm though.

Jun 21 - Jul 22

Jul 23 - Aug 22

Aug 23 -Sep 22

Avoid arguments with relatives who might be conservative and outdated. Don’t make any drastic changes or begin new projects this week. You may find travel to be most rewarding. Try not to push your philosophies on others.

Don’t let situations get out of hand. Emotional relationships will be plentiful if you attend group activities.

You may get some opposition.

Personal changes will be to your benefit. Passion is inevitable and commitments can be made during the heat of the night.

Sep 23 - Oct 22

Oct 23 - Nov 21

You can travel for business or pleasure. Don’t be too quick to judge your position or surroundings at work. Uncertainties are still prevailing. Get out and, about. Explore new and exciting environments to stir creativity.

Nov 22 - Dec 21

Take the time to help those less fortunate. Minor accidents may occur if you don’t concentrate on what you’re doing. Your lover will cost you dearly if you let them. Don’t confront the situation if you don’t feel you can keep your cool.

This is not the time to lend or borrow money. Don’t get depressed, get busy. You can accomplish a lot if you’re willing to put in a little time. Get involved in worthwhile endeavours and meet new friends. You can look around for the right place and enlist some of your friends to help you.

Your attitude is changing rapidly and your plate is overloaded.

One sided attractions are likely.

You may have a problem with coworkers if you try to tell them what to do. You may not be too pleased with the actions of those you live with.

Dec 22 - Jan 19

Jan 20 - Feb 18

Feb 19 - Mar 20

Your high energy, original ideas, and excellent memory will aid your accomplishments. Travel will enhance romance and adventure.

Think be fore you act. Unforeseen circumstances will disrupt your daily routine. Keep an eye on your weight, and ensure a healthy diet.

Finish projects that have been hanging over your head.

Opportunities for new partnerships will develop through the organizations you encounter. You will have no problem getting your point across to those in a position to help you.

Your charm and generosity will bring new friends and romantic opportunities. Be courteous if you wish to avoid major delays. Your input into their activities will help bring you closer together. Get together with people who stimulate you mentally.

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

DIRECTORY

BUILDER

admin@theexpressnewspaper.com.au

Shop 4, 276 Byrnes St, Mareeba PO Box 1034, Mareeba Q.4880

Authorised Fujitsu Service Agent

P: 4092 3019 M: 0409 648 403 F: 4092 1629

www.donhall.com.au

DEMOLITIONS

AIR CONDITIONING

4092 3464

ABN 80 179 825 363 QBSA 59712 ARC License AU24014 Electrical License No: 78958

HUGE RANGE OF QUALITY SECONDHAND BUILDING MATERIALS AVAILABLE Contact: Martin 0439 915 512 - Office 4055 9461 - Email: martin@anton.com.au

DEMOLITION yoPru wovithidinsagfe & ASBESTOS soasluantidonaffs toordaallblyoe ur bestos re moval and demol REMOVAL ition projects!

SERVICES

 New Homes  Bathrooms  Renovations  Concreting  Kitchens

 Sheds

Builder No. 15236920

• TILE & VINYL REMOVAL • ASBESTOS REMOVAL • FLOOR GRINDING • INTERNAL DEMOLITIONS • BATHROOM STRIPOUTS • DEMOLITIONS

CARR NQ CONSTRUCTIONS PTY LTD Mobile: 0418 190 791 • carrnqconstructions@outlook.com

P: 0477 055 550 | E: info@nqstripouts.com.au | W: www.nqstripouts.com.au

CABINET MAKER

Serving Mareeba & Tablelands Areas • Residential & Commercial • Kitchens • Vanities & Wardrobes • Offices & Retail

For oNLY $50 per week this spot couLd be Yours!

Call Beth today on 4092 3464 or email admin@theexpressnewspaper.com.au

Come and see Daniel and the team at B&C Cabinets for all your cabinetry needs!

*Includes a free online listing on www.theexpressbusiness.com.au

CHILDCARE CLEANING

EARLY LEARNING • KINDERGARTEN OUTSIDE SCHOOL & VACATION CARE

s e c i v r e S g n Cleani

TABLELAND

AL ACWORTH

FULLY INSURED LOCAL FAMILY BUSINESS

Driveway Services & Bobcat Wet Hire

• Mould & Mildew Treatments

r Roofs & Exteriors For all you rior • Pressure•Cleaning, Carpet Cleaning e t x interior & e g!

• Floor Stripping & Polishing in clean • Contract Cleaning

FARM

DRIVEWAYS SHED SLABS QBCC 15306413

Justin Batt 0432 157 825

W: www.fnqconcreteworks.com.au • E: fnqconcreteworks@outlook.com

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

• Polished Concrete • Dust Controlled Grinding • Ceramic, Vinyl, Carpet Removal • Supply & Installation of Vinyls • Vinyl Planks & Carpets • Commercial & Domestic

Phone Darrin 0428 917 539 Email: daz.northernfloors@gmail.com Northern Floors Pty Ltd LOCALLY OWNED & OPERATED

HARDWARE

Certain work defined as “building work” in the QBCC legislation may only be undertaken by licensed contractors, or if undertaken by unlicensed contractors, only to the value of $3,300.

However, work falling outside that definition may be performed by unlicensed contractors and is not subject to any value limit.

To check whether a Contractor holds a QBCC Licence visit: www.qbcc.qld.gov.au Or call the QBCC on 1300 272 272

• FIREWOOD FOR SALE • Premium Gravel • Residential & Commercial • Driveways & Job Sites • Forest Mulcher & Slasher

Steve 0427 913 214

FLOORING

RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL SLABS

 TURF PREP  TIGHT ACCESS  TRENCHING  POST HOLES  SLAB PREPARATION  SLASHING  ROLLER HIRE

0419 362 428 | www.elew.com.au admln@elew.com.au

Phone: David or Julie 4092 3982 or 0428 993 205 | Email: tablelandcleaning@outlook.com

CONCRETING

 BOBCAT AND TIPPER HIRE  EXCAVATOR  SITE CLEANUPS  DRIVEWAYS  DAM CLEAN OUTS  RETAINING WALLS

EARTH MOVING

P: 4092 2671 • E: enquiries@bccabinets.com.au • QBCC 1209087

info@mareebakidscampus.com.au www.mareebakidscampus.com.au 3 CENTRES IN MAREEBA: Constance, Dunlop & Hastie Streets

FULLY INSURED

RAVENSHOE HARDWARE

• Hardware • Plumbing • Flat Pack Kitchens • Paint • Nursery • Giftware • Jaycar • Building Materials • White Goods

19 Wormboo Street raven@iig.com.au

4097 6208 The Express, Wednesday January 15 2025 PAGE 25

DIRECTORY admin@theexpressnewspaper.com.au

PAINTER

IRRIGATION

4092 3464

 Irrigation  Sales  Design  Stock Water  Filtration  Pumping Systems  Treatment  Install  Repairs

QBCC: 1255907

Address: 9 Costa Street, Tolga Q. 4882 | Postal: PO Box 541, Tolga Q. 4882 | Email: admin@fnqw.com.au Phone: (07) 4235 7887 | Mobile: 0483 281 712 | Facebook: FNQ Water Pty Ltd | Website: www.fnqw.com.au

IRRIGATION DESIGN AND SUPPLY

Contact Tom Beecheno • M: 0407 965 879 • E: tom@tpps.net.au

MAXIMUM PEST MANAGEMENT PEST

• Pumps Sales & Repairs • Filtration • Water Treatment • Water Tanks & Troughs • Pool Treatments • Solar Pumping Systems • Reinke Centre Pivot and Lateral Move Irrigators

LANDSCAPE

50 BYRNES STREET, MAREEBA • PHONE 4092 7788

100% Locally Owned & Operated!  DOMESTIC W: www.maximumpestman.com MAREEBA OFFICE:  COMMERCIAL P: 4092 1999 1 Vaughan Street OFFICE:  TERMITES M: 0418 150 759 ATHERTON 30 Main Street Pre-Construction | Pre-Purchase Inspections

CONCR E BLOCK TE S!

Thermal Optics • Cellular Traps Feral Animal Control Thermal Drone Inspections

Servicing the Atherton Tablelands!

PLUMBING

W: www.tcblandscape.com | T: 4092 2086

• Carports • Retaining Walls • Drainage • Decking • Sheds • Concreting • Demolition • Garden Edging • Earthmoving • Fencing • Structural Landscapes • Turf Installation

Mal 0488 608 585

MOWING

POOL

active.landscape.constructions@hotmail.com

QBCC: 1314309

0415 579 019

 RURAL  DOMESTIC  COMMERCIAL  ROOFING  PLUMBING  DRAINAGE “WE OFFER A COMPLETE ON SITE POOL SERVICE” POOL MAINTENANCE & POOL SHOP

..,

M. HARTLEY PTY LTD TRADING AS

BELL HARTLEY & CO. PAINTING CONTRACTORS

P: 4092 1176 M: 0418 184 147 E: markterri70@bigpond.com PAGE 26 The Express, Wednesday January 15 2025

0419 719 487

FNQ Platinum Painting

NO OBLIGATION FREE QUOTES!

PO BOX 1414, MAREEBA QBCC 1115490

P: 4092 1443 or 0413 013 297

Home or workplace delivery from $12.50 Tablelands, Cairns (Palm Cove to Goldsborough), -'-, Kuranda, Speewah & Koah.

E: fnqplatinumpainting@gmail.com

QBCC 1531 9397

ALL POOL SUPPLIES LICENSED OL SAFET Y INCLUDING FREE WATER PO INSPECTOR TESTING & EXPERT ADVICE

Tablelands Grown First & 100% Australian

PRODUCE

CONTACT DANTE AVOLIO FOR A FREE QUOTE!

Mobile: 0488 608 585 Email: thermalboarsaustralia@gmail.com

71 BYRNES ST, MAREEBA

www.tablelandstotabletop.com.au

TRAINING

PAINTER

Domestic | Commercial

Max & Jodie Turner

 Feral Pigs $25  Feral Cats $10  Feral Dogs $35  Rabbits $5 Certified, insured and ABN registered.

TCB Landscape • Mareeba Drive-Thru Yard • Cnr Costin and Beames Streets  Raw Materials  Pots & Planters  Pavers  Retaining Walls  Bird Baths  Water features  Garden Statues  Wide Span Sheds

Domestic and Commercial

T2T Fruit & Veg Market 41 Strattmann Street, Mareeba

Monday - Friday 8.30am - 5.30pm Freight options available - Far North Queensland

MAREEBA’S LEADING TRAINER • Mining, Civil, Construction and Agriculture industries

• Standard 11, white card and forklift

• Machinery tickets from just $50* (CSQ funding)

• Work safely at heights and confined spaces

• Full qualifications from $30*

• AC/DC Chemicals and chainsaws

*eligibility criteria applies

RTO 32381 | 4042 5700 | mareeba@civilsafety.edu.au | 38 James St, Mareeba 4880

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DIRECTORY admin@theexpressnewspaper.com.au

PROFESSIONAL TREE SERVICE SERVICING NORTH QUEENSLAND

TREELOPPING

TREELOPPING

4092 3464

• Tree Removal • Wood Chipping • Stump Grinding • Firewood Lukas Portelli 0427 189 227 tablelandstreeworks@gmail.com

TABLELANDS TREELOPPING

• Treelopping • Bobcat Hire FREE • Wood Chipping • Pensioner Discounts QUOTES! • Stump Grinding • Fully Insured

CONCRETE

P: 4095 4595 | E: aataylorstreelopping@outlook.com

Call Jon Lambert | P: 4091 5008 | M: 0407 575 916 SHIPPING CONTAINER SALES

STORAGE AVAILABLE

General Towing & Breakdowns FREE DEAD CAR REMOVAL

PHONE DOUG

0417 840 584

STORAGE

s a h g n i s i t er v d A e or m n e never be ! e l b a d affor

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DIRECTORY You CAN afford to Advertise in The Express Directory.

With prices starting at just $50 per week!

Includes a FREE LISTING on www.expressbusiness.com.au

Call today on 4092 3464 or email: admin@theexpressnewspaper.com.au www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

The Express, Wednesday January 15 2025 PAGE 27

CLASSIFIEDS

EXPRESS The

4092 3464

admin@theexpressnewspaper.com.au

Classified Deadline: 4pm every Friday ChurCh notiCe

Death notiCe

in MeMoriaM

in MeMoriaM

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

MINCHIN, Mildred Evelyn “Milly”

Frederick Miethke

Roger Phillip Anderson

Funeral notiCe

Late of Malanda. Passed away peacefully on the 11th of December, 2024. Aged 98 years.

Beloved Wife of Alf (Dec.). Cherished Mum of Helen and Ron. In keeping with Milly’s wishes, a private cremation will take place.

Helen and Ron would like to thank the wonderful staff at Ozcare Malanda for the excellent care and support shown to Mum and our family.

Atherton: 4091 2147 Mareeba: 4092 1013

Late of Mareeba. Passed away suddenly on Saturday the 4th of January, 2025. Aged 77 years.

Relatives and friends of Brian are respectfully invited to attend his funeral which is to be held graveside at the Mareeba Cemetery on Friday 17th January, 2025 commencing at 1:00pm.

Guilfoyle Funeral Services Chapels, Crematorium & Memorial Gardens

Atherton: 4091 2147 Mareeba: 4092 1013 Local Family Owned & “Entrusted for over 70 years”

www.guilfoylefunerals.com.au

Local Family Owned & “Entrusted for over 70 years”

www.guilfoylefunerals.com.au

REDINGTON, Honor Rosa

Late of Tolga. Passed away peacefully in her sleep on Friday the 20th of December, 2024. Aged 97 years.

Much loved Wife of Geoff, cherished Mum of Greg, Mother-in-law of Chris, Grandma of Todd, Luke and Matthew, Great Grandma of Arlo, Olive and Rueben. ~ Together with Geoff once again. ~ In keeping with Honor’s wishes, a private cremation will take place.

Guilfoyle Funeral Services Chapels, Crematorium & Memorial Gardens

Atherton: 4091 2147 Mareeba: 4092 1013

Death notiCe LOUDON / RILEY, Veronica

8/6/1961 – 21/12/2024 From the Loudon family of Far North Queensland, Veronica Mae Loudon passed away peacefully in her rainforest sanctuary on Saturday 21st December, 2024 surrounded by her cherished husband and family.

Loving Mother to Rach, Nick, Sarah & Kaitie.

Stepmother to Jess & Ben. Grandmother to Harry, Charlie, Artie, Malia & Carter, and soon-to-be daughter of Nicole & Nick. Daughter to Marlene & Bob (Dec.). Sister to Danny, Majella, Sue, Nick, Maggie & Tony. Soulmate and beloved Wife to Brad and pet Mum to Lottie.

Veronica will be remembered for her active and abundant life and her loyalty and devotion to her family. Our recollections will be defined by her acute intelligence, pragmatism, physical and mental strength, passion for human rights, social justice and the environment and unwavering courage in the face of overwhelming challenge.

Her cheeky wit and spirit will forever echo through the canopy of Barrine.

A private memorial for Veronica will be held in February 2025.

Donations to MND Qld & The Smith Family are appreciated in lieu of flowers, and we wish to acknowledge our heartfelt appreciation to the extraordinary health professionals and carers for their support.

Tributes can be posted via Veronica’s Facebook Memorial page.

Ride high and pedal fast warrior woman. xxx

Guilfoyle Funeral Services Chapels, Crematorium & Memorial Gardens

Atherton: 4091 2147 Mareeba: 4092 1013 Local Family Owned & “Entrusted for over 70 years”

www.guilfoylefunerals.com.au

Funeral Celebrant FUNERAL Celebrant.

Debbie Boardman 0410 328 357.

In loving memory of those who are forever in our hearts

Remembering your smile and the joy you brought into our lives, as we think of you today and always.

We love you and will miss you forever.

Angela, Adam & Kasia, Danielle & Travers, Melissa & Richard, Joy & Ron and our families.

Chapels, Crematorium & Memorial Gardens

CAMPBELL, Brian

Will be sadly missed by all family and friends.

Forever in our hearts, our thoughts and in our prayers.

Guilfoyle Funeral Services

IN LOVING MEMORY OF

Much loved Husband of Bev (Dec.). Loving Stepfather of Terry, Raymond, Russell, and their families.

13-01-2022

Local Family Owned & “Entrusted for over 70 years”

www.guilfoylefunerals.com.au

IN LOVING MEMORY OF

Chapels, Crematorium & Memorial Gardens

Atherton: 4091 2147 Mareeba: 4092 1013 Local Family Owned & “Entrusted for over 70 years”

www.guilfoylefunerals.com.au

Howard John Daniels The eldest son of Lional, and Howard’s two boys Ben Daniels and David Daniels.

D.O.B. 21/5/1964 - 1/1/2025 Died peacefully at the Cairns Base Hospital.

There will be a private family get together.

With thanks CARMELO LEONFORTE Thank you for your generous words, flowers and cards with the passing of Carmelo Leonforte on the 3rd November, 2024.

With love, Wife Immacolata, Children and Grandchildren.

Make Your Ad Stand Out...

ADD COLOUR!

PAGE 28 The Express, Wednesday January 15 2025



Will always miss your laughter and your jokes.

Sending our love in heavenly peace.

07.03.1977 - 13.01.2024

MICHELINA FALVO 26-10-1913 to 25-12-2014

In times of trouble it’s you we seek, I know you can hear but cannot speak.

You may be gone and we still cry, But remember it is not our last good-bye.

The day will come when we meet again, Then we can celebrate and hold your hand.

From your loving daughter, Giovanna, Salvatore, Carmelina, Michelina, Danielle, Frank and their families.

You are near, Even if I don’t see you.

You are with me, Even if you are far away.

You are in my heart, In my thoughts, In my life, always.

Love from Simon’s family.

Ivana Bilic

In loving memory of our Daughter & Sister 31/3/75 ~ 14/1/93 “I will never forget you,

Late of Mareeba. Passed away peacefully on Monday the 6th of January, 2025. Aged 82 years.

Guilfoyle Funeral Services

We think about you always, We talk about you still, You have never been forgotten, And you never will.

We hold you close within our hearts, And there you will remain, To walk and guide us through our lives, Until we meet again.

Simon Lukic

IN LOVING MEMORY OF

CAMPMAN, Herbert “Herb”

Much loved Husband of Bev. Loving Father, Father-in-Law & Grandfather of Shayne, Dean, Mark, Olivia and their families.

He will be sadly missed by all family and friends.

As per Herb’s wishes, a private cremation will take place.

19/05/54 to 12/01/24 TO OUR DEAREST BROTHER, BROTHER-IN-LAW, UNCLE, GREAT UNCLE AND COUSIN.

Jeffrey Ali 25/04/1971 13/01/2022

David Ali

I have carried you in the palm of my hand.”

(Isiah 49:15) Your loving Mum, Dad, Sister, Brother and family.

28/04/1941 03/01/2024 Time will not dim the face I love, The voice I heard each day.

The many things you did for me, Your gentle, loving way.

All my life Iʼll miss you, As the years come and go.

But in my heart Iʼll keep you, Because I love you so.

Love Pauline, Robert, Donna and Tania.

Robyn Greenfield

Passed away 14.01.24.

Missed by friends of Mareeba.

C L A S S I F I E D advertising deadline 4pm FRIDAY email a d m i n @ theexpressnewspaper. com.au or phone 4092 3464.

Roger Phillip Anderson

For rent

FOREVER IN MY HEART

3 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, 2 living areas, 4 car shed, 18 klms from Dimbulah township, towards Wolfram.

Would suit mature couple looking for quiet lifestyle. $260 PER WEEK Phone 0419 725 498 To arrange an inspection.

19/05/54 to 12/01/24

Losing you was the hardest thing, I have ever had to face.

You truly were my shining light, My safe and happy place.

I will treasure all the memories, Of the time I spent with you.

Who will fix my broken pieces now, For, to me you were my glue.

I will miss you for eternity, Every day we are apart.

But always know I love you so, You’ll be forever in my heart.



Until We Meet Again.

Sending You Heavenly Love. xx Sandra and our Fur Baby Min Min.

TO RENT: FARMHOUSE

Covering local news, sport and entertainment from across the region

WE’RE YOUR

VOCAL LOCAL EXPRESS The

CLASSIFIED DEADLINE 4PM FRIDAY

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

CLASSIFIEDS PICKO Fencing and some cattle work.

Phone 0493 415 338

Great Northern High Pressure Cleaning Soft Wash, House, Roof, Driveways, Gutters.

PHONE: 0477 774 064 jonnydams18@ gmail.com

Gardener Tree Lopper Pruning, slashing, mowing, rubbish removal, gutter cleans & handyman etc.

Competitive rates, fully insured.

John 0414 280 514

butcher

SAY Thank you, in The Express 4092 3464.

BILL Black Mobile Butcher. Hang up to 7 days. 0408 922 812.

For Sale 2015 HOLDEN COLORADO 4X4 96,000KLMS WITH SLIDE ON CAMPER Will sell Camper separately.

Ute: $20,000 Camper: $14,000 Phone: 0429 655 134

FOR SALE! Cat 930H Loader Cat 930H Loader

IT with bucket, forks & Jib crane.

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$115,000 (+GST)

Unit located at 12 Reynolds St, Mareeba.

Contact Mal Lane: 0400 657 058 lanemachinary@gmail.com

We’ve got you covered.

Heavy duty, waterproof, UV, stable, economical.

IN STOCK NOW! 1300 656 211 abctarps.com.au

GARAGE SALE Saturday 18th January, 64 Battle Road, East Barron 7am - 5pm Tools & motor cycle tuning tools, manuals & books, kitchen goods, DVDs & electrical goods, and some weights.

WITH

PoSitioN VacaNt

Experienced Boilermaker

Description: A qualified full-time Boilermaker and all-rounder is required for immediate start.

Pumping Irrigation & Machinery Services (PIMS), a Mareeba-based firm, supplies a wide range of industries with end-to-end solutions and high-quality products to ensure efficiency and reliability in water, irrigation and filtration services throughout Far North Queensland.

Tasks/Responsibilities: • Ability to produce high quality work.

• Fabrication of pipework and infrastructure from various materials and fittings.

Applicant Requirements: • Current Driver Licence • Cert III in Engineering – (Boilermaking) • Butt welding of polyethylene plastic pipeline capabilities would be advantageous • Self-motivated, honest, hardworking, conscientious, and well presented • Ability to work unsupervised and have exceptional problem-solving skills • Must be willing to work at remote locations occasionally Remuneration: • Will be commensurate with experience and proven skills.

If this sounds like a job you are interested in, email your cover letter and resume to: careers@pumpingirrigation.com.au

$8.00 Per Tonne + Delivery

0418 773 504

GaraGe Sale GARAGE & SHED SALE:

7am - All Day, Saturday 18th January 18 Mountain View Close, Mareeba (Parking off Seary Road, opp. 50km sign.)

Tools, 20 electric hand tools, brass door, furniture, screws, microwave, household goods, fabric, china, glassware, bric-a-brac, clothes, shoes, 50 antique books, egg cup collection and lots more, plus some freebies!

YOUR LOCAL CLASSIFIEDS

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READ THE CLASSIES ONLINE www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

Public Notice

Careers with Queensland Health

Pharmacy Assistant

PREMIUM Tableland Red Top Soil

ADVERTISING works.

Call us on 4092 3464.

PoSitioN VacaNt

WISH SOMEONE YOU LOVE A

LOCAL Mobile Farm Butcher - will travel.

Ph Bryan 0407 691 752.

MOBILE farm butcher.

Ph John Hales 0409 638 882.

HAY COVERS?

GaraGe Sale

Mareeba / Lotus Glen Correctional Centre Salary: CA2 CASUAL $38.84 - $41.74 per hour Duties/Abilities: Assist in the provision of safe and effective pharmacy services under the supervision of a pharmacist or appropriately trained clinical assistant, which supports the delivery of an efficient and effective pharmaceutical service to Mareeba Hospital and its associated services (i.e. Lotus Glen Correctional Centre, Chillagoe Primary Health Care Centre and Dimbulah Primary Health Care Centre).

• Provide assistance in the provision of hospital pharmacy services under the supervision of an appropriately trained Clinical Assistant or Pharmacist.

For more information see the relevant section of the Operational Services Manual (Pharmacy Assistant OO3).

• Maintain a clean and tidy work area.

• Utilise effective communication and interpersonal skills when working as a member of a multidisciplinary team.

• An ability and willingness to undertake training programs relevant to the role.

Enquiries: Rudi De Faveri 07 4092 9321 Application Kit: CAH607701 https://smartjobs.qld.gov.au/ jobs/QLD-CAH607701 Closing Date: Wednesday, 12 February, 2025

M15148V2

trade SerViceS

You can apply online at www.smartjobs.qld.gov.au A criminal history check may be conducted on the recommended person for the job. A non-smoking policy applies to Queensland Government buildings, offices and motor vehicles.

Public Notice Proposed Development Make a submission from: 16th January, 2025 to 10th February, 2025 Reconfiguring a Lot (Boundary Realignment) Where: Willows Road and 180 Hall Road, Tolga On: Lot 1 on RP742303 and Lot 7 on RP702530 Approval Sought: Development Permit Application Ref: RAL24/0045 You may obtain a copy of the application and make a submission to:

Tablelands Regional Council PO Box 573, ATHERTON QLD 4883 info@trc.qld.gov.au 1300 362 242 www.trc.qld.gov.au Public notification requirements are in accordance with the Planning Act 2016.

PetS *ANIMAL OF THE WEEK*

NAME: Jackson DOB: 17/08/24 BREED: Kelpie x Staffy Introducing the lovely Jackson...

He has a delightful temperament, and loves human company. He’s been socialising with other dogs, cats and kids, making him the perfect family addition.

He has been desexed, microchipped, and fully vaccinated. His adoption fee is $330.

If you would like to meet Jackson- please call 0487 430 443. EFTPOS Available

RESERVE FOR LOCAL GOVERNMENT (RUBBISH) PURPOSES R1146 BEING LOT 858 ON NR7516 ROIKO ROAD, MAREEBA DRAFT LAND MANAGEMENT PLAN Mareeba Shire Council has developed a draft Land Management Plan for Reserve for Local Government (Rubbish) Purposes R1146 being Lot 858 on NR7516, situated at Roiko Road, Mareeba.

The Land Management Plan describes the existing uses and infrastructure located on the Reserve and set out the Council’s intentions, as Trustee of the Reserve, with respect to management of the land according to its gazetted use and in accordance with the provisions of the Mareeba Shire Planning Scheme.

The Land Management Plan provides for the continued activity on the Reserve of a mountain bike park with extensive bike trails and skills practice area by the Mareeba Mountain Goats Inc Mountain Bike Club.

The draft plan is open for public comment for a period of 28 days and can be accessed via Council’s website. A copy of the document is also available at Mareeba and Kuranda Libraries.

Submissions in relation to the draft plan will close at 5.00PM on Wednesday 5 February 2025 and should be forwarded to the Chief Executive Officer, Mareeba Shire Council, PO BOX 154 Mareeba Queensland 4880.

Peter Franks Chief Executive Officer PO Box 154, MAREEBA QLD 4880

MAREEBA LIONS CHRISTMAS RAFFLE 2024 WINNERS: PRIZE 1: S. Keuch PRIZE 2: L. Crimmins PRIZE 3: T. Pretorius PRIZE 4: G. Carusi PRIZE 5: Matt PRIZE 6: S. Gray The Mareeba Lions Club thanks all of the donors who supported this year’s Christmas raffle. Your continuing support is greatly appreciated and enables your Mareeba Lions Club to support worthwhile humanitarian causes locally, nationally, and internationally.

We also thank all of our volunteers who sell tickets, and our loyal supporters who purchased tickets and cakes again this year.

We look forward to working for you and the community in 2025. A big thank you also to all of the sporting and other organisations who came on board and sold tickets to support their own fund-raising activities.

“Lions Australia - We Serve.”

Publishers Terms and CondiTions Advertising agencies, advertisers and individuals by lodging material with the publisher for publication, approving or authorizing of the publication of any material INDEMNIFY the publisher, it’s Directors, employees and their agents against all demands, claims, costs, expenses, proceedings and damages wholly or partially arising directly or indirectly in relation with the publication of the material without limiting the generality, indemnify all associated in relation to libel, defamation, infringement of copyright, slender of title, infringement of trademarks or publication titles, breach of trade practices or fair trading legislation, unfair competition, violation of privacy, confidential information, royalty rights, licenses or other property rights and thus WARRANT that all material complies with relevant laws and that it’s publication will not give rise to claims or liabilities to the publisher, directors, employees and agents, and without limiting the generality that nothing is in breach of the Trade Practices Act 1974 or the Copyright Act 1968, the Fair Trading Act 1987 or the Consumer Protection, Defamation and Sale of Goods Legislation of the States and Territories or infringes the right of any person. adverTising CondiTions Any advertisement accepted for publication in The Express is subject to the rules applicable to advertising laws laid down by the Media Council of Australia. All advertising is subject to the publishers approval and at its discretion can refuse to accept any advertisement it believes the message portrayed within the advertisement might infringe the rights of an individual or may not comply with all the laws and regulations of the States and Territories. The publisher does not accept any responsibility or liability in relation to any loss due to the failure of an advertisement to appear according to instructions.

The placing or positioning of an advertisement within the requested classification is at the discretion of The Express except where agreed upon by the publisher. The monetary level of advertising is based upon the frequency used within the period of the order. The term may vary from three months to one year. The word “Advertisement” will be used on advertising copy which in the opinion of the publisher resembles editorial. The terms set out above are subject to change without notification at the discretion of the publisher. adverTisemenT Proofing The proofing of advertisements cannot be guaranteed unless advertising copy content is received at The Express by 12 Noon Friday prior to publication. adverTising Code ClearanCe Rulings by the Trade Practices Commission require that all advertisements relating to alcoholic beverages, therapeutic goods, weight loss/slimming clinics and products or programmes must carry an APB Clearance Number. All advertisements that do not carry the APB Number first must be submitted for clearance and the issue of an APB number for inclusion in the advertisement directed to: Australian Publishers Bureau, Suite 2/1, 741 Pacific Highway, Gordon NSW 2072, Phone (02) 9499 3412.

The Express, Wednesday January 15 2025 PAGE 29

2024

SPORT IN REVIEW

2024 was a big year for local sports people who showed their best on local, national and international stages. against 16 international athletes in the prestigious SailGP Waszp Inspire Racing program in Sydney.

Atherton weightlifter Karli Duesbury donned the green and gold for the first time in her life while competing in the 2024 Oceania Championships in Auckland. Duesbury managed to earn herself a silver medal after going up against some of the strongest women from Guam, Solomon Islands and Nauru, including former Olympian Jenly Tegu Wini.

APRIL JANUARY

Mareeba’s Spirit Muay Thai held their first ever fight event that was a huge success attracting hundreds of spectators who turned-out to watch the several bouts. Mareeba local Dean Gallo was deemed winner of his fight by unanimous decision.

FEBRUARY

The Mareeba Gladiators Jersey Night Auction smashed records after raising an incredible $52,550.

Spirit Muay Thai’s Casey Grogan travelled to Melbourne to fight in the Hardcore promotion. Going up against the experienced, and favoured, Jesse King, Grogan won in impressive fashion after just 50 seconds into the first round, winning by knockout (KO).

Amy Hunter was selected to represent Australia in the Under 19 Australian Women’s Tour of Sri Lanka team. The 18-year-old Atherton local travelled to Sri Lanka and England as part of her international representative duties.

MARCH

Atherton Cricket Club secured the Ken Tait Memorial Shield after being the overall winners out of three derby matches against Mareeba. The shield was created after the passing of Ken Tait, who was an Atherton Cricket life member.

Atherton local Breanne Wadley was selected from a pool of over 200 applicants to represent Australia

Mareeba’s Paige Carey made waves in the swimming world after securing a spot to represent Queensland at the National Swimming Championships on the Gold Coast. Paige competed in both the 50m and 100m butterfly events.

The Cricket Far North competition wrapped up and both local clubs held their annual presentation day that saw many awards handed out.

Young Atherton athlete Asha Simmons-Lynch was selected for the You for 2032 Olympics program and the Future Firebirds Academy. The 16-year-old’s dream is to be a Firebird one day, but in addition to this she made an “accidental” debut in the beach volleyball world after her and a friend lightheartedly tried out for the Olympic talent search program as a “muck around” while in Cairns one day.

Asha will continue to attend training sessions throughout the You for 2032 program in the hopes of being selected for the Olympic Games when they come to Brisbane.

MAY

The Great Northern Bullriding Series kicked off with their first round of the year dedicated to ANZAC Day. It was champion bullrider Braydon Wellby to take out the top spot in the Open event.

The Mareeba Golf Club was extremely successful in the annual Mareeba Open event, with more than 130 golfers flocking in for the occasion.

Mareeba gymnast Oliver Hampton represented Queensland at the Australian Gymnastics Championships. The Level 9 Under 18 gymnast competed in a variety of apparatuses at the Gold Coast.

Watsonville mountain biker John Leslie was named

the UCI MTB Masters World Champion in the 80-84 age group.

The annual Barron River Challenge saw more than 100 competitors participate in the event, with Canberra paddling duo Craig Elliot and Laura Lee taking out the top spot.

JUNE

Local boxer Joshua Klein returned to the ring after two years and produced a triumphant win at the Tully Boxing Tournament.

The Tinaroo Dam Outrigging Canoe Club placed first in the Golden Masters Mixed crew in both the 10km and 18km events at the National Marathon Outrigging Championship in Mooloolaba.

The Arthur Beetson Immortal Tour made its way to Davies Park and saw several rugby league legends play alongside many locals.The legends included Preston Campbell, Matty Bowen, Petero Civoniceva, Willie Tonga and James Roberts.

JULY

The Under 15 and Under 17 Marlin Coast Netballers emerged victorious at the International Netball Quad Series grand finals, featuring five young women from the region.

Sophie Withers, Maddie Argent, Jessica Reedman, Louise Seawright, Silvienne Poggioli and Jasmine Bowe were a part of the teams that took on Singapore, Hong Kong and Malaysia in the threeday tournament.

The second Moriconi Bomben Soccer Cup was played as part of the Italian Festival at Leichhardt Football Club.The over 45s match is played between the Mareeba Bulls and Leichhardt Lions to honour the legacies of Alfio Moriconi and John Bomben.

Brodie Davis was crowned King of Kerribee at Mareeba Speedway’s presentations after taking out some of the nation’s top drivers from Western Australia, Victoria, Queensland and New Zealand.

AUGUST

The Mareeba Gladiator’s U17 girls team (above) overcame an 18-6 halftime deficit to defeat the Innisfail Leprechaun’s 22-18 in an intense grand final win.

Mareeba local Jack Wyatt was named as FNQ’s Strongest Man after taking out the NQ’s Strongest event in Townville.One of the events required him to pull a 105 series Landcruiser 12 metres while sitting down, and naturally, the boy from the bush practiced by using his own 80 series Landcruiser.

Sam Fahlstrom and Jonty Coutts were selected into the Gold Coast Titans junior pathway program.

Offered three-year contracts, the program required the boys to relocate to Central Queensland where they will attend Rockhampton Grammar School and travel to the Gold Coast multiple times a year for development sessions, camps and games.

Skills & Drills Clinic

­

PAGE 30 The Express, Wednesday January 15 2025

The Under 14 Malanda Eels and Under 16 Ravenshoe Tigers took out the grand final matches in the Eacham Junior Rugby League competition.

SEPTEMBER

Mareeba Gladiators’ Tyrone Williams won the FNQRL’s Under 19 Player of the Year for the third consecutive year, Atherton Roosters’ Jackson Clark won the Under 17 Coastal Player of the Year and Malanda Eels’ Harrison English won the U17 Eacham Male Player of the Year.

The Under 15 Atherton Roosters claimed a grand final victory in their first year in the FNQRL Coastal competition. The game went into golden point and was eventually won by a successful penalty goal from Jonty Coutts. $28,426.50 was raised at the Cops and Robbers Charity Golf Day at the Atherton Golf Course and attracted 138 players. A total of $315,230 has been raised through the event over the past 13 years.

Mareeba cowboy Josh Snell returned home ranked 13th in the world for bullriding in his age group after competing in the International Miniature Bullriding Series world finals in Ogden, Utah.

OCTOBER

Tahlia Huth from Momentum Gymnastics placed third at the State Championships in Brisbane.

The annual Grin n Bear It Challenge was held at Tinaroo requiring competitors to complete a 2km swim, a 12km paddle, a 62km mountain bike ride and a 12km trail run. The young Atherton-Mareeba team comprised of Josiah Dixon, Levi Gunton and Finn Rae narrowly missed out on the overall All Male Team top placing by a mere 1m 36s.

NOVEMBER

The Atheron Eagles Football Club was named Queensland’s Community Club of the Year and canteen coordinator Kim Cummings was also recognised as Volunteer of the Year for the Far North and Gulf region.

The Fantin Cup football match was held in Dimbulah and saw many families, footballers and fans alike fill Bruno Park. The highlight of the night was the over 45s match, and it was Mareeba who claimed the Cup this year, defeating Dimbulah 3-0.

Owen Jonsson from Herberton’s Tepon Raceway was crowned as Driver of the Year for the eighth time in the 14 years since his first win, making it a club record.

The Ash Memorial Fishing Comp found great success in its second year, with almost 200 people enjoying a weekend of fishing, camping and competing. Enough funds were raised to officially kickstart the Ashley McDowall Holm Memorial Fund.

Roger and Annette Wadley were recognised as Queensland’s Volunteers of the Year at the Australian Sailing Awards.

DECEMBER

The Tableland Roller Derby League picked up their first competitive win at Northern Tropical Thunder in Townsville.

The Mareeba Motorcycle Club was recognised as Queensland’s Club of the Year. They were listed as one of three finalists for the award and overcame the Kingaroy Junior Motorcycle Speedway Inc and the Sunshine Coast Motorcycle Club to win.

Gabrielle Rohde returned from competition at the National Track and Field Championships in Syndey with a silver medal. The young Atherton local is officially ranked second in high jump in Australia for the 10-years age group.

SILO CENTRAL SHOPPING CENTRE Phone 4015 4004 ATHERTON SQUARE SHOPPING CENTRE Phone 4091 7665 FINE JEWELLERY, WATCHES & GIFTWARE ALL JEWELLERY & WATCH REPAIRS www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

SPORT

Ducks fly as Atherton First fight event for the new year crumbles Mareeba’s Grant Hanlon winds up to hit a four.

IT was a tough weekend for the Atherton Cricket Club as they suffered a massive loss to Barron River in a game that saw seven ducks, including three golden ducks, halt the Tablelands side.

There was no luck either for the Mareeba Bandits after they fell short in another close match at Borzi Park, being run down by Mulgrave with five overs left to play.

Atherton travelled to Trinity Beach to take on the Barron River Cricket Club at Crathern Park.

Barron River won the toss and elected to bat first.

Atherton’s Brandon Green performed well with ball in hand, finishing on 3-27 off eight overs.

Cameron Davis also bowled well for the Tablelands side, taking 2-18 from seven overs.

The end of the first innings saw Barron River finish on a defendable score of 7/170.

Going out to bat Atherton had a big task ahead of them, but it was all done and dusted by the 18th over after they were all out for just 43 runs.

The Tablelands side notched

up three golden ducks and four ducks, losing by a staggering 127 runs.

Atherton captain Logan Poggioli managed to earn his team 20 runs and Cameron Davis scored 10.

Despite this significant loss, the Atherton side are still sitting in third position on the ladder.

Meanwhile, the Mareeba Bandits took on Mulgrave at Borzi Park.

Mareeba won the toss and elected to bat. Opening batsman and former Mulgrave player Tristan Curmi, provided a good stint for the home side, scoring 34 runs.

Efforts from Ben Jones (10 from 18), Remo Esposito (21 from 43), Grant Hanlon (12 from 10) and a late surge from Tyson Brown, scoring 37 from 36, helped boost Mareeba’s final score to 9/144.

For Mulgrave, it was brothers Rhys and Kobi Johnston who comfortably led the run chase, scoring 40 and 44 runs not out respectively, with Rhys being recently selected for Queensland’s Under 17 team.

Other efforts from Matt

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

Folpp (26 from 67) and William Robertson (10 not out from 11), were enough for the visiting side to chase down Mareeba after 35.4 overs.

Curmi proved determined to play well against his former teammates, taking 3-21 with ball in hand.

Following another narrow loss, the Mareeba side currently sit sixth on the ladder, comfortably ahead of last place Cyclones.

This weekend will mark Round 12 of the Cricket Far North competition, where Mareeba will face the Cyclones at Borzi Park and Atherton will have a bye.

(RIGHT) Cam Davis took 2-18 in Atherton’s loss over the weekend.

THE first fight event of the year for Mareeba’s Spirit Muay Thai will be held this Saturday from 2pm and will see several other gyms from across Far North Queensland bring their best fighters for competition.

Held at Mareeba International Club, ‘Don’t Lose Before You Fight’ will have martial arts gyms from Mareeba, Atherton, Malanda, Cairns and Townsville all competing in a seven-bout fight card.

“The name of the event is symbolic to life, meaning never give up before you try and always fight to get what you want,” Spirit Muay Thai instructor Rosario Signorino said.

Serji Kravchenko and Bryan

Wyborn will be the two Mareeba fighters competing, with Wyborn fighting in the main event.

There is a $10 entry fee per person and there will be food and drinks available for purchase.

FIGHT CARD Bout 1 - Sam Sheedy (DF) vs Serji Kravchenko (SMT) Bout 2 - Gary Jackson (Nukzu) vs Andrew Roussetty (Maxenergy) Bout 3 - Will Brennan (Jigsaw) vs Jack Griffin (Nukzu) Bout 4 - Chance Dalley (Ronin) vs Layne Offner (ATG) Bout 5 - Peter Pannam (Jigsaw) vs Napo Gibia (Nukzu) Bout 6 - Renyn Eisel (Ronin) vs Mylo Ter Velde (DF) Bout 7 - Rob Bryant (Maxenergy) vs Bryan Wyborn (SMT)

Parkrun comes to Mareeba MAREEBA will be officially launching as a member of Parkrun Australia this Saturday.

Parkrun is a free worldwide event held every Saturday morning that attracts health enthusiasts and other members of a community to come together and participate in a 5km walk or run.

After attracting positive numbers in their trial runs, with over 100 people participating,

Parkrun Mareeba is set to become an official member of Parkrun Australia.

Following their launch, the event will then take place every Saturday morning from 7am with participants asked to arrive 10 minutes early for a briefing.

Participants are also asked to register with Parkrun Australia at www.parkrun.com.au/ register/ for insurance purposes.

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