The Express Newspaper 22 January 2025 by Carlo Portella

A DAY TO CELEBRATE

PLENTY of good old-fashioned fun will be the order of the day this Sunday as the region celebrates our national day. Both Tablelands Regional Council and Mareeba Shire Council will host citizenship and Australia Day Awards ceremonies on Sunday while Dimbulah will host a fun morning, and the Malanda Big Pubs is gearing up for its annual, popular family event which includes toad racing and thong throwing.

Malanda Big Pub’s bar attendant Elizabeth Fielding is getting into the spirit of our national day.

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.

“Being recognised on this level by the IWSC is incredibly rewarding for our team.

Reaching for higher education made easier

“We strive to craft rums that reflect the unique terroir of Far North Queensland, and this nomination reaffirms that our efforts are resonating on the world stage.”

LOCALS are being encouraged to take advantage of the Tablelands University Centre (TUC) to reach their higher education goals.

Only around 14% of locals hold a degree, while nationally, that figure is nearly double.

now is the time to take the first step, and we’re here to help.”

The TUC offers free Connect to Uni sessions to make it easier for locals to explore education options, navigate financial support, and apply.

opportunities to procrastinate - helping kids or cleaning and tidying - is exactly what I need.

“And being around like-minded people and having ‘adult conversations’ will be an added bonus.”

FNQ Rum is the only Australian brand shortlisted for the Rum Producer Trophy, “standing proudly” alongside global giants such as Foursquare Rum USA from Barbados, Sang Som Distillery from Thailand, and Ron Roble Viejo from Venezuela.

Vocational Partnerships Group (VPG) is working to change this through the TUC which provides regional students with access to resources, support, and study spaces, focusing on increasing university participation and completion rates.

locally and internationally for their distinct ﬂavours and exceptional quality”.

Rachel Postans, a local mum who has worked at VPG for almost a decade, is taking the leap and starting her own academic journey in 2025.

“This nomination cements FNQ Rum’s position as a leading force in the global rum industry and is a testament to years of hard work, dedication, and innovation,” Mark said.

The TUC is part of the Australian Government’s Regional University Study Hubs program.

“The ripple effect of education is undeniable,” says VPG chief executive officer and TUC leader, Maryanne Tranter.

“We use sugar cane nectar to produce a more rich and sweet ﬂavour and then we age the spirit in ex-Australian red wine barrels, so it combines these nice ﬂavours well,” Mark said.

“I’ve spent years supporting others in their educational and employment goals, but now it’s my turn to follow my own advice,” Ms Postans said.

“And we’re situated in a really nice area, the ﬂuctuations in temperature with the hot days and cold nights helps the spirit age really well.”

“I’m excited to start my Bachelor of Business with CQ University at the TUC.”

Ms Postans explained why the TUC was the right fit for her.

The TUC supports students from all walks of life – adult learners, those returning to study, and first-time students. It offers a campus-like environment with modern resources, including computer facilities, high-speed internet, and an onsite education coach for academic and wellbeing support.

The TUC is free for all post-secondary students studying university or vocational courses at any Australian education institution.

FNQ Rum describes its rums as being crafted “from the rich volcanic soils and sugarcane of this unique tropical region” and “produces a range of rums that have been celebrated both

“Skilled locals strengthen our workforce, boost the region’s prosperity, and inspire others.

“If you’ve ever thought about studying,

The Mt Uncle Distillery has also recently started distribution in the UK, adding to their many successes.

“My learning style isn’t suited to staying motivated to study from home,” she said.

“As a mum, access to a quiet space dedicated to study, without endless

a stellar year for FNQ Rum, during which it has already secured multiple awards. At the World Rum Awards earlier this year, FNQ Rum took home two gold medals for its Platinum Cane Spirit and Iridium Agave Cask Finish, alongside being named World’s Best Sugarcane Spirit. Additionally, the brand’s commitment to quality was further highlighted with a silver medal at the International Wine and Spirit Competition for its Iridium X Rum. Mark will be travelling to London to attend the awards ceremony on 12 November.

The centre is open seven days a week from 5am to 10pm, with swipe access for registered students.

This IWSC recognition follows

For more information, visit www.tuc. edu.au

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.

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.

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

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.”

Mt Uncle Distillery Owner and Head Distiller Mark Watkins with FNQ Rum’s awardwinning Iridium X rum.

Local mum Rachel Postans is set to pursue her university goals through the Tablelands University Centre.

Mareeba loses true community champion

MAREEBA lost a true community champion last week with the sad passing of well-known Councillor, Rotarian and dedicated volunteer Kevin Davies.

The town was shocked by the news that the 56-year-old father of two had passed away last week after he was diagnosed with an aggressive form of cancer in November.

But while Cr Davies’ life was tragically cut short, his never-wavering passion and commitment to the Mareeba Shire will never be forgotten.

His connections run deep throughout the town, with his involvement in local government, serving two terms as a councillor, including being Deputy Mayor from 2020-24 and re-elected for a third term in March last year; his contribution to Rotary Mareeba as a past president and secretary including being a key organiser of the FNQ Rotary Field Days and involvement in many club projects; his critical role in running the Great Wheelbarrow Race; his volunteering work and support for the Mareeba Gladiators; and his overall dedication to promoting health and fitness throughout the community.

Cr Davies was a strong voice for this community, especially passionate about improving the shire’s transport network in his role as chair of the local traffic advisory committee for many years.

Mareeba Mayor Angela Toppin paid tribute to the popular councillor last week.

“It is difficult to express the loss we are feeling today,” she said on Tuesday.

“Cr Davies was a dear friend to many, and his loss is going to be felt far and wide in our community. He had a great sense of humour and treated everyone with kindness.

“He has always been totally committed to our community and Shire and leaves a legacy of dedication and tremendous community service,” Mayor Toppin said.

“Our sincerest condolences are with Cr Davies’ wife Pauline and two sons today. We thank Kevin for his incredible contribution to our Shire.”

For Mareeba Rotary president Charlie Martens, the loss is immeasurable for the club and the whole community.

“He was an amazing Rotarian and had been all his life really, with his father Cedric, being a Rotarian for 50 years,” Mr Martens said.

Some years ago, Kevin was quoted as saying his father had instilled a sense of community in him from an early age.

“I used to go with him for Rotary and working bees and my sons (Liam and Bradley) are the same,” he said at the time.

“Kevin was our ‘go-to’ person – he was always putting his hand up to get on with the job. We have lost a warrior and a true friend,” Mr Martens said last week.

“Kevin was the glue that helped hold the club together and he brought a lot of community projects to Rotary to pursue because he had so much involvement with just about every club and organisation in the town.

“He was loved by everyone, and was always cheerful to be around – he had a cheeky smile, even when he was cranky, he’d have a smile on his face.”

Mr Martens said Kevin was one of the “doers”

for Rotary, always stepping up to take on new projects but remaining pragmatic in his approach.

“But he never sought the limelight, he was quite shy in a way and while he was a serious person, he didn’t take life seriously,” he said.

“He would always approach work as not a chore because he was helping someone or doing something that would make life better, so, to him, life was fun, doing things were fun and making things better was fun.”

The Great Wheelbarrow Race committee, of which Cr Davies was the chair, posted their thoughts on Facebook last week. It was his persistence for many months emailing the Sunrise breakfast program that convinced the national show to put a spotlight on the race in 2024.

“It’s hard to know where to begin to pay tribute to someone who was such a massive part of not only the great race, but all the communities and the people along the wheelbarrow way,” the post read.

“Kevin has been part of the race since the beginning in various roles, both competing and on the organising committee, and most recently the Chair.

“Kevin lived and breathed everything this race is about - fun and fitness while helping others near and far. It was all about making a difference to people’s lives and that’s what Kevin did best.

“He was our person, the person we would turn to for everything. He just knew what the right thing to do was.

“We will miss his guidance, leadership and wisdom, his humour and his passion for the race and community, along with his determination to make things better and do better.”

The Gladiators also paid tribute.

“Kevin Davies’ passing was very sad news yesterday. He touched many lives positively within our community and will be missed and remembered as a wonderful human with a passion to give back,” the post read.

A service to celebrate Kevin’s life will be held at Mareeba Anglican Church on Friday at 10.30am.

Kevin, with Jose Lopez (left), and trainer Tracy Marcel, before competing in the 2019 Ironman 70.3 World Championship.

Kevin played a key role in organising the FNQ Rotary Field Days.

As Chair of the Great Wheelbarrow Race committee, Kevin gave his all for the event.

Kevin pictured with his sons, Liam (left) and Bradley, after installing new bollards at Rotary Park.

National poll backs Australia Day date Recognition for community’s best AUSTRALIA DAY awards 2025

A NATIONAL poll has shown that 69% of Australians want 26 January to remain as our national day of celebration.

The poll of 1,002 Australians was undertaken by marketing research firm Dynata.

“This year’s poll results show that following the divisive Voice to Parliament referendum, as well as the Woolworths saga, mainstream Australian no longer fear the elites, and are now not afraid to loudly speak up for our country and our shared values,” Institute of Public Affairs deputy executive director Daniel Wild said.

“Uniting around our national day and our national flag reminds Australians that there is far more that unites us than divides us. This is vital if we are to regain our sense of community.”

The poll also found that 86% of respondents were proud to be an Australian, and 68% said Australia had a history to be proud of.

“In the recent past, every January, Australians have needed to endure the handwringing and navel-gazing of the self-appointed thought leaders and elites demanding we think of the reasons to be ashamed of Australia. No more,” Mr Wild said.

“It is clear that mainstream Australians have had a gutful of this attitude and being put upon by the elites. They know Australia is the greatest nation on earth, that our way of life and freedoms are the envy of the world, and that they must be cherished and celebrated.”

Encouraging, the poll showed a jump in support for Australia Day to be celebrated on 26 January from 18-24-yearolds, up 10% to 52%.

“It should give the entire community great hope that despite relentless indoctrination taking place at schools and universities, young Australians are growing in civic pride. This should be encouraged and celebrated,” Mr Wild said.

TABLELANDS REGIONAL COUNCIL

THIRTY-nine community members and organisations have been nominated across eight categories for Tablelands Regional Council’s Australia Day Awards.

“It’s fantastic to see these exceptional people and groups being recognised,”

The nominations are:

CITIZEN OF THE YEAR

Sue Fairley

Anne Harron

Alfred Hogan

Gemma Horner

David McConnell

Matt Newport

YOUNG CITIZEN OF THE YEAR

Flynn Hyde

Teesha Potts

Mackenna Taylor

COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARD

Better Together Community Support

Danny Hooligan

Lions Club of Atherton

James (Paul) Quinlan

Mayor Rod Marti said.

“We have such a great community and that doesn’t happen without the contribution of people like those who have been nominated.”

The winners will be announced at a ceremony on Australia Day at the Atherton

Tolga Historical Society

Graham Wardle

INCLUSION AWARD

Linda Bates

Disability Matters Inc.

Ravenshoe Men’s Shed

Tableland Community Link

SENIOR CULTURAL AWARD

Kylie Akers

Jaelene Durrand

Lachlan Szery

JUNIOR SPORTS AWARD

Tahlia Huth

Kobi Johnston

Rhys Johnston

Lucas Kattenberg

Erika Koelman

MAREEBA SHIRE COUNCIL

CITIZENS and groups that add value to their communities as well as some new citizens ready to join the Australian family, will be the focus of Australia Day celebrations in Mareeba this Sunday.

Mareeba Mayor Angela Toppin is inviting everyone to come along to the Cedric Davies Community Hub on Anzac Avenue to join in on the fun.

“Come along this Australia Day as we recognise the incredible contributions that our residents

The nominations are:

ADULTS

Amy McDonald

Cheryl Emmerson

Ellen Duff

Howard Small

John Nethery

Kay Harrold

Michael Musumeci

Mick Dub

Samantha Malcolm

Sandy Ryan

International Club, with doors open at 10am for a 10.30am start.

Before the awards, Mayor Marti will preside over a citizenship ceremony for seven people who will take the oath to become an Australian.

Samika Sheahan

SPORTS SUPPORTER

AWARD

Jacob Gigliotti

Healthwise Physio

Roger and Annette Wadley

Therese Watson

COMMUNITY EVENT OF THE YEAR

Atherton Carols by Candlelight

Atherton Maize Festival

Malanda BioBlitz

Malanda Show

Mount Garnet Rodeo

Sunset Stories

Tableland Roller Derby League

make to our community,” she said.

The ceremonies will start at 10am.

“If you have never attended a citizenship ceremony, why not make this Australia Day the chance to witness this significant occasion as nine new citizens take the final step to becoming the Shire’s newest Aussies,” Mayor Toppin said.

This year, Mareeba Shire Council is partnering with the Lions Club of Mareeba to provide a free sausage sizzle. There

JUNIORS

Alana Mehes

Ally MacLeod

Brooke Butler

Ebony Hobson

Elenoa Patolo

Ella Daven

Evangeleah McKay

Eve Davies

Jordana Giacometti

Josh Snell

Leo Balzarolo

Maddison Argent

Manvir Kaur

Oliver Hampton

Paige Carey

Sophie Trimble

Steven Young

COMMUNITY ORGANISATIONS

Irvinebank School of Arts and Progress Association Inc

Lions Club of Mareeba

will also be cake, tea and coffee available after the ceremony.

“There will be free face painting and fun activities for children. We look forward to seeing you there,” Mayor Toppin said.

Unlike Tablelands Regional Council, which receives nominations for specific categories, Mareeba Shire receives nominations for adults and juniors, then allocates them to the appropriate category.

Australia Day events will be held in Malanda and Dimbulah. See page 15.

Big bucks for a big fish

A 10-year-old boy has picked up a $1000 prize for catching a onemetre long barramundi at Lake Tinaroo.

Archie Dunell and his father Matt were fishing at Lake Tinaroo in mid-December when Archie felt something big take his line.

“My heart was pumping as the barra jumped into the air!” he said.

“It’s not the biggest barra I’ve caught, but definitely the most memorable.”

Archie’s prize is part of the Fish ‘n SIP$ tagged fishing competition which provides prizemoney to those catching tagged barra in the lake.

The young angler is the ninth winner in the second edition, which started on Anzac Day 2024 when 19-year-old Tate Gowan nabbed a barramundi in the same lake.

Minister for Primary Industries

Tony Perrett said there are still six prizes up for grabs worth a total of $24,750 before the competition

closes on 31 January.

“I want to say a big congratulations to young Archie — this whopper must have given his little arms a workout!”

Minister Perrett said.

“I also thank Archie’s dad Matt for taking him fishing at a stocked impoundment, one of 63 across Queensland.

“Thanks to the vital work of local fish-stocking associations, every time you fish in one of these impoundments, you’re supporting a regional economy and taking the pressure off our wild fish stocks.”

Just under 50,000 permits were issued to fish in impoundments (dams) in the 2023-24 financial year, with more than $1 million reallocated to stocking groups, which released over 3.1 million fingerlings.

Since 2010 the Tableland Fish Stocking Society Inc (TFSS) has released close to 300,000 barramundi fingerlings into Lake Tinaroo, which has grown into an iconic fishing destination in

north Queensland.

Assistant Minister for Far North Queensland and Member for Barron River, Bree James, said recreational fishing was significant in the region as an economic driver.

“Recreational fishing contributes an estimated $2.5 billion to the state’s economy and the majority is generated in regional Queensland,” she said.

“Lake Tinaroo is the most successful spot to fish in the competition so far, so make a plan now to try your luck on the Australia Day long weekend.”

The impoundment has been part of the Stocked Impoundment Permit Scheme (SIPS) since its inception in 2000 and has produced 10 Fish ‘n SIP$ winners across the two editions of the competition.

For more information on the competition and to grab a SIP, head to https://www.daf.qld.gov. au/rsa/sips-dams-and-weirs

No easy fix for Ray Road

A DRAINAGE study on the Ray Road area has revealed the solution is complex and costly and will likely never stop flooding of properties or the road during extreme rainfall events.

Mareeba Shire commissioned the study after properties were inundated during extreme rainfall associated with Cyclone Jasper in 2023, but it’s not the first time the council has investigated solutions for the area. Another study was undertaken in 2004 which provided a good level of information on existing drainage infrastructure and associated drainage issues within the Ray Road catchments but “limited advice on drainage corridors conveying flows away” from the road.

The report also provided design options to improve the drainage performance of flooding on roads, but did not give advice on upgrades directly related to properties.

Among the recommendations in the 2004 report was to upgrade the Jennings Road crossroad culvert and airport open drain which have since been completed by council.

But given the issues experienced by residents in the weather events of December 2023, Mayor Angela Toppin said the council acted to have another study done.

“The 2024 Ray Road

Drainage Study reviewed the extent of the contributing stormwater catchments, the capacity of the existing drainage and identified possible opportunities to minimise impacts of flooding issues in the area,” she said.

The study highlighted that the Ray Road area was generally very flat and many existing houses on Ray Road, between George Fabris Road and Chinaman Creek, were located within a broad floodplain.

All impacted buildings and dwellings in the drainage area were constructed before 2004, with the exception of one banana farm packing shed, and the existing drainage infrastructure was designed and implemented to meet the required service standards at the time of development.

The study found that potential drainage infrastructure upgrades that may be considered by council, if affordable, included:

• Increasing crossroad capacity commencing from the southern end of Ray Road to limit bypass flows north along Ray Road and cumulative flows arriving at the subsequent culvert crossings;

• Increasing the capacity of existing crossroad culverts coupled with associated capacity upgrades to the open drains downstream from the culverts;

• Increasing the capacity of the existing culvert crossing on the western side of Ray Road at the George Fabris Road intersection to enable runoff to be contained on the western side of Ray Road; and

• Constructing detention basins for new developments proposed within the study area.

However, the study warned that the upgrades would not necessarily prevent flooding entirely due to the significant constraints caused by the size of the stormwater catchment, the nature of the arriving overland flows and the flat topography of the land.

“Following a recommendation from the study, council will formalise a Ray Road Drainage Management Plan to investigate, assess and cost drainage infrastructure upgrade options which may reduce the impacts of drainage and flooding issues,” Mayor Toppin said.

“However, it must be noted that some flooding will always occur irrespective of what we do.”

According to the study, undertaking the upgrades suggested would minimise the frequency that flooding would impact on the road and adjacent properties.

“More simply, rainfall events contributing to flooding issues would have a probability of

being exceeded, on average, once every 10 years instead of once every two years,” the document stated.

Mayor Toppin said once the council completed the drainage management plan, the document would inform council’s future Capital Works program considerations, which prioritises projects that have the most benefit to the shire and can be completed within available budgets.

Ten-year-old Archie Dunell with his winning barramundi at Lake Tinaroo – proudly caught in the Fish ‘n SIP$ competition.

Tableland Fish Stocking’s Doug Luscombe and Member for Barron River Bree James hand over the cheque and a certificate to young angler Archie Dunell.

Support for community projects

TWO community project requests have received support from Tablelands Regional Council.

The Malanda Community Kindergarten plans to build a new playground to replace the ageing facility established 25 years ago.

The centre has up to 44 children a day and wants to provide a play space that will cater to all children’s capabilities.

The total cost of the project is $222,821 and is being fully funded by the kindergarten located in Ann Street.

Mayor Rod Marti was pleased the council had the opportunity to support the community.

“Malanda Community Kindergarten applied to replace their playground including removing the existing playground, levelling the space and building an access ramp for children with disabilities,” he said.

The new playground will include a swing but is mostly a nature-based play space.

“I’m looking forward to seeing the finished product,” Mayor Marti said.

An extension to existing amenities at the Tinaroo Sailing Club was also approved at the meeting.

The club has 300 members, many of whom travel one to two hours to enjoy sailing, camping, and other club activities.

The club advised that its current amenities block did not adequately support the number of club members during high occupancy events, lacks compliance with current standards for DDA facilities and offers no designated changing rooms.

The club says the inadequacy of the amenities impacts existing members, impairs its ability to host large events such as the annual May Day weekend regatta, and limits participation for those with disabilities. Additionally, members with infants do not have access to baby changing facilities.

The extension to the amenities, which will cost the club $219,401, will include three female toilets, two showers, a compliant unisex disability toilet and access ramp.

The existing toilets and showers will then be nominated as the male amenities block post-construction.

“These additional facilities will support the club during their large events and I congratulate them on receiving the grant for this project,” Mayor Marti said.

Inaugural parkrun a great success

By KONNOR FURBER

THE official launch of Parkrun in Mareeba proved to be a massive success with more than 220 people participating in the inaugural event.

From the local community to Atherton, Cairns, Canberra, and Gippsland (Victoria), the Mareeba Rail Trail Parkrun saw 222 registered runners, joggers and walkers complete the 5km event, as well as many others who were not registered.

“It far exceeded my expectations,” event coordinator Dr Nathan Walmsley said.

“I thought we’d get 20-40 people at our trial runs, and we had over 100 there, but to have well over 200 people for our official launch was just absolutely amazing to see, it’s a great community achievement.”

A sea of blue flowed up and down the rail trail behind the Jackaroo Motel with Parkrunners donning the colour to signify Mareeba’s meaning of ‘meeting of the waters’ and also representing its blue skies with ‘300 sunny days a year’.

There was also a minute of silence held before the event to honour the late Kevin Davies, who played a big role in bringing the event to his community.

“Kevin was part of the first committee to start Parkrun,” Councillor Ross Cardillo said.

“He played a huge role. Kevin did a lot of things people aren’t aware of and he was always very passionate to do good things for his community.”

Parkrun is a free, timed event that happens across the globe every Saturday morning.

In Mareeba it will be held every Saturday morning from 7am.

The course begins on the rail trail behind the Jackaroo Motel and goes up to McIver Road and back three

times, totalling to 5km.

The idea to bring the event to Mareeba came after Dr Walmsley attended a general practitioner conference in 2023 and heard about Parkrun encouraging GPs to consider prescribing the event to their patients.

“I heard so many great stories of people that just volunteered initially or walked part of the course, that are now running 5km and have done good things for their health,” Dr Walmsley said.

“I’m always passionate to do whatever I can to improve the health of my patients, and I’m a big believer in ‘prevention is better than cure’.

“So, after that conference I felt really encouraged to bring it to Mareeba,” he said.

With strict rules on finding an appropriate location and needing to raise $7,500 to purchase equipment, it wasn’t an easy process.

“The biggest hurdle with setting up any park run is finding an appropriate location,” Dr Walmsley said.

“You can’t cross the road, you can’t cross a driveway, the pathway needs to be wide enough, it can’t be too uneven, you need a place where there’s toilets and parking near the start and finish, there’s a lot of rules.

“The other thing is, to start a park run you need to raise $7,500, which helps pay for a defibrillator, insurances and all the timekeeping equipment.

“Fortunately, that wasn’t too much of a difficulty because the Rotary Club kindly donated $2,500 and the Emerald Creek Windfarm Grants gave us the final $5,000, so thanks to them we were able to reach our goal quite quickly,” he said.

Dr Walmsley is encouraging all members of the community and anyone who is interested in Parkrun

to try it out.

“Running, jogging or walking is good for your cardiovascular health and good for your muscular skeletal health, something is always better than nothing.

“I have this saying with some of my patients, sometimes you have to do the hard things, or the hard things will happen to you.”

To register for Parkrun visit www.parkrun.com.au/register/

Runners from Gordonvale attended the event.

Locals Billie Fincham, Sandro Soncin and Sherri Soncin enjoyed their morning run.

Hundreds of people dressed in blue for the official launch of Parkrun Mareeba.

Cr hits the roof over project cost Lapidary club members recognised for dedication

Council crew to take on works to save money

By ROBYN HOLMES

TWO roof replacements that were destined to be contracted out by Tablelands Regional Council will now be done by the council’s construction crew.

Officers sent the two jobs –the roof of the Lapidary Club at Tolga and the Lakeside public amenities – out to tender but when it came time to award the tender for $340,584 at the council’s last meeting of 2024, Cr Kevin Cardew had other plans. He moved that rather than awarding the contract to a private contractor, and council having to allocate an additional $171,000 than initially estimated for the job, council’s construction crew could do the work.

Cr Cardew said he was prompted to act given the “exorbitant price to do a simple re-roof” job on both buildings and cited his many decades of experience in the building sector to back his view that the council’s construction team could handle the job.

“I’m a licensed builder by trade, been a building surveyor for more than 30 years, and back in the day, I used to run the construction team for local government, and we have the capability of doing (the job) in-house.

“We have to get away from spending ratepayers’ money unnecessarily on jobs like this

here that we can do ourselves.

“This should have rung alarm bells with our officers when they did this report.”

Cr Cardew said he contacted a local shed company to get an indicative price on the cost of building a new 500sq m shed, complete with slab, and was advised it would be between $250,000 and $280,000.

“And here we are being asked for $340,000 just to put a roof on –it’s absolutely ridiculous.”

Cr Kylie Lang said she strongly agreed with Cr Cardew and believed the council was capable of doing the work, but Cr Dave Bilney questioned whether council had the resources to do the job.

Infrastructure Services general manager Mark Vis agreed that council’s construction crew was “a capable and competent team” but they were already fully allocated to a large program of works.

“If council decides to approve this, then obviously council staff can deliver that work – it will just mean we have to assess the program that we have allocated to them and consider whether we can defer or outsource some of those works,” he said.

“Although we have a very capable team, it’s not a very big team. The contractor indicated the job would take 10 weeks so we need to understand how much time our resources would be

needed for the job and how that would impact our program.”

He acknowledged the budget was a lot higher than first estimated but noted that the scope had also increased to include wall cladding and a concrete apron around the lapidary club building. The job also included laying a 23m concrete slab at the entrance to the clubhouse which was being funded by the club.

Mr Vis said building materials continued to rise in cost and were forecast to rise again by 4.8% in February.

But Cr Cardew was not deterred, saying it was time council took on such works to save ratepayers money and cited many buildings within Atherton that had been constructed by previous council crews as proof it had been done in the past and could be done again.

Mayor Rod Marti did want to add to the discussion but Cr Cardew moved that the motion be put to the vote, which was backed by the majority, preventing the Mayor from expressing his view on the issue.

Council unanimously voted to back the new recommendation that council undertake the job in-house.

By KONNOR FURBER

TWO members of the Atherton Tableland Mineral and Lapidary Club have recently been awarded life memberships, recognising their efforts and many years of dedication.

Current president Trevor Hannam and vice-president Tim Buzacott were presented with life memberships at the club’s Christmas party.

“I was pretty ecstatic actually, there hasn’t been all that many handed out since the club started so it’s a real honour,” Trevor said.

“Since retiring, being a part of this club is one of the best things to ever happen to me.

“You can’t be stagnant when you retire, you’ve got to find something to keep you going; this club is part of my life,” he said.

Trevor joined the club in 2008 and has been president six times since then but will be standing down in February for someone new to take the reins.

Tim joined in 2006 and has been a “crazy rockhound” since the age of two.

He oversees the machines in the cabbing (a cutting method for smooth gems) room and looks after the rocks and minerals side of the club and is also the “go to man” for identifying specimens.

“I’ve worked with Tim for many years, and I think he’s

going to go a long way with this club. He’s very deserving of a life membership,” Trevor said.

The club’s main interests involve gems, cabs, rocks, minerals, silversmithing, wirewrapping, gem trees, slabbing, faceting and other activities.

“We are a teaching club.

People join who are interested in lapidary hobbies such as faceting, silversmithing and cabbing and I have been volunteering as a teaching instructor for these art forms for many years, as has

who teaches cabbing”

Founded in 1968, the club now has 140 members who meet three times a week on Monday nights, all day Wednesday, and Saturday mornings at their club house on Racecourse Road, Tolga. The club sells their products from their club house and also opens for the public at the monthly Tolga markets. The club is “always looking for new members” and requires a membership fee of just $50 a year.

Tim

Trevor said.

Tim Buzacott (left) and Trevor Hannam were presented with life memberships of the Atherton Tableland Mineral and Lapidary Club.

Flying squad to swoop on crime hotspots ‘Missing link’ to boost student safety

THE Crisafulli Government has launched the largest rapid response unit in Queensland Police history – an integrated “State Flying Squad” to swoop on crime hotspots across the state.

The squad of 58 specialist officers will be deployed to high-risk areas to strategically target Queensland’s worst juvenile and adult offenders.

The government has committed $32.4 million in funding over five years to the squad, which will absorb officers who are currently attached to operations including Taskforce Guardian and Operation Whiskey Legion.

Premier David Crisafulli said bolstering Queensland’s crime offensive with the largest ever police flying squad was just one of the ways the government was delivering on its commitment to restore safety where you live.

“This squad will strike at the heart of crime and help restore community safety across the state,” he said.

“Backed by our tough Making Queensland Safer Laws, the State Flying Squad represents a new era of policing and will give communities the backup needed, when they need it.

“We are throwing the kitchen sink at turning the tide on a decade of runaway crime under Labor.”

A SHARED pedestrian and cycle pathway, linking Mareeba State Primary School on Constance Street to Lloyd Street, as well as more on-street parking, will be provided after Mareeba Shire awarded the contract for the job just before Christmas.

The tender was awarded to Ikin Civil for $246,876 and will provide “a missing pedestrian link” at the Lloyd Street end of Constance Street which was identified as a priority under the Mareeba Walking Network Plan.

“This project will see the installation of a shared pedestrian and cycle pathway, linking Mareeba State Primary School on Constance Street to Lloyd Street. Additional on-street parking will be constructed on Constance Street, opposite the school,” Mareeba Mayor Angela Toppin said.

“With the support from the Queensland Government, we are looking forward to delivering this project to improve the safety for students accessing the school and providing additional parking for the community.”

The project is funded by the Queensland Government through the School Transport Infrastructure Program (STIP) and Mareeba Shire Council.

Charity relay swim for hospital

LOCALS are being invited to participate in the CLAMS Charity Swim Relay, an event dedicated to raising funds for the Far North Queensland Hospital Foundation.

Money raised through the event on Saturday 8 February will be used to purchase a DaNi - a new surgical robot for the Cairns public hospital.

Locals can form a team of 10 swimmers (five men and five women) and compete in relay events.

The top five teams advance to the finals, with trophies awarded to the top three.

Throughout the event, which begins at 3pm, there will be fun relays, giveaways, raffles, and fundraising activities.

Gather a team and register now by going to https://fnqhffundraising.fnqhf.org.au/ For more information or assistance with registration, call 4226 6723 or email to fundraising1@fnqhf.org.au

New entries shake up mango competition

WITH just over a week left to enter The Express’ annual Kensington Pride mango competition, Sienna and Liam Avolio still hold first place over the seven other entries with their 1.514kg giant.

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

First place in the competition 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.

OPEN DAY

Open Day is

University of the Third Age (U3A) OPEN DAY

U3A Atherton Tablelands (U3AAT) invites you to its Open Day from 9:00am to midday on Saturday 01 February, 2025, Room 22, Atherton Community Centre, 42 Mabel Street, Atherton.

U3AAT is a volunteer-based community organisation that promotes educational, creative, and leisure activities to its members. Although the majority of members are of retirement age, anyone over the age of 18 is welcome to join.

The Open Day is your opportunity to ﬁnd out more about the wide variety of activities available to its members, with course leaders and current members available to chat with you personally.

U3A (University of the Third Age) is an international organisation that began in 1972 at Toulouse University in France. There are now more than 20,000 U3As in the world, across every continent.

U3A’s aim is to encourage those in the third age of life (beyond full-time work) to continue learning by joining groups,

attending events and lectures, and learning from each other or invited speakers.

Discussion topics span subjects from securing a sustainable future to the legal rights of seniors, from travel and nature to astronomy, or analysing signiﬁcant historical events. Anything is possible!

U3A Atherton Tablelands oﬀers a wide range of group activities including book clubs, creative writing, photography, gardening, philosophy & science, healthy lifestyle and walking, Mahjong, cards, lunch with friends, movie nights, workshops and presentations, and various online courses—for an annual U3AAT membership fee of just $30.

U3AAT welcomes oﬀers from members or organisations to present talks or run new courses that will contribute to enriching the U3A experience.

For more information on the organisation and its activities, visit the U3AAT website: athtablands.u3anet.org.au

Weston and Jovie Hilditch are

ADVERTORIAL

Locals call for wildlife action

By KONNOR FURBER

A GROUP of Tolga locals are outraged over the deaths of redlegged pademelons along the Atherton Tablelands Rail Trail, claiming it is a result of attacks by unleashed dogs.

Yvonne Cupitt has rescued two pademelon joeys in recent months and has seen many adults dead along the Rail Trail which she walks every morning.

Pademelons are small, compact wallabies found along coastal and subcoastal eastern Australia from Cape York to the Hunter Valley in New South Wales.

They are also found in the Tolga scrub – one of the last remaining fragments of the endangered Mabi rainforest on the Atherton Tablelands, with about 2% of original forest left.

Yvonne and fellow walkers are calling for action from local authorities and residents to stop the “considerable number” of deaths.

“It’s unfair on them, pademelons don’t hurt anyone,” she said.

“They need saving. All the wildlife that is in that Tolga scrub needs saving; once it’s gone you won’t have it, and you can’t put it back.”

Yvonne and others claim the deaths are a result of dog attacks when owners let their animals off their leash to roam free on the track and chase animals in the scrub.

Tablelands Wildlife Rescue president Nicole Alsford says pademelons are one of the more frequent macropods they receive into their care and even if a dog

chases one and is unable to catch it, it is still likely the animal will die.

“As a mother is being chased, she can drop the joey and then take off. But this can give it myopathy, which is an exertionbased degenerative muscle disease,” she said.

“Even if they are brought into care, there is very little that can combat that. It causes shock, paralysis and eventually death.

“So, even if these dogs don’t always catch a pademelon, chances are they’re still effectively killing them. They’re just killing them a few days or weeks later,” she said.

Macropod wildlife carer

Olive Needham said: “not every animal that gets chased will get myopathy, but it is a very common cause of death for macropods”.

She also linked the deaths to dogs or large feral cats rather than native animals.

“We can eliminate all the natural predators of these animals just by the sheer number of deaths occurring,” she said.

“Small macropods are the ideal size for nearly all dog breeds. The adult pademelon ranges in weight from about 4-7kg and a feral cat would never

chase and maul one of these just for fun.”

The group said another issue needing to be addressed was the illegal use of the trail by motorbikes and cars.

“I see a car almost every night using the trail, going up to the pub and back,” Yvonne added. “And motorbikes go racing up and down it all the time.”

Nicole was calling for policing and penalties to be enforced.

“Someone needs to be going along there and checking that people are using the trail the right way,” she said.

Another concerned local, Marie Alsford, said the issue increased risk to walkers and cyclists legitimately using the trail.

“It’s dangerous for people… it gets used quite a fair bit by walkers and cyclists. And it’s mostly older people who use it, and some of them are on

scooters too.”

The Atherton Tablelands Rail Trail is an asset of Tablelands Regional Council which has qualified authorisation over its use, including fines for some activities.

“Depending on the activity or behaviour, the issue may need to be addressed by the Queensland Police, Department of Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation or other authority,” general manager community and corporate services Shiralee McHardie said.

“TRC can issue infringements for some activities on the rail trail, others may be the responsibility of other authorities.

“We conduct patrols of the rail trail when we are in the area. We also require dogs to be on a leash and under control when outside their property,” she continued.

“Responsible pet ownership is key to ensuring the safety of people, other animals and wildlife.”

TRC was also developing a rail trail strategy and had received more than 140 responses to a community survey (as of 16 January)..

“The strategy will outline the management of the rail trail for the next five years including signs, branding, points of interest and funding,” Ms McHardie said.

“In saying that, signs aren’t necessarily the solution in situations like this and are unlikely to deter poor behaviour.”

Survey for rail trail users

USERS of the rail trail network in the Tablelands Regional Council local government area are being asked to feed into a survey which has been extended until 28 January.

The survey is seeking input from the community to understand how the rail trail network is currently used.

Council says that feedback from all users – whether they be casual, once-in-a-while walkers, or dedicated bike riders – will be used to identify the challenges and opportunities and form a regional Rail Trail Strategy to leverage the asset for the use of everyone.

The survey asks users their age, where they live, what they use the rail trail for and how often.

They are also asked to rate their experience using the trails for surface condition, support facilities such as shelters and amenities, food and drink options, accommodation options and access to the trails as well as car parking facilities.

Cairns Cruising Yacht Club

AUSTRALIA DAY

Sunday | January 26 | 12:00pm - 06:00pm

Celebrate Australia Day at the Cairns Cruising Yacht Squadron with a fun-ﬁlled day for the whole family!

Join us from 12pm to 6pm for a festive event featuring live music, raﬀ les raising money for Sailability, a BBQ, and prizes for the best-dressed attendees.

Kids will love the jumping castle and face painting, while the bigger kids can enjoy ice-cold refreshments with waterfront views. Don’t miss out on this special celebration... come and be a part of the fun!

The maximum penalty for anyone using prohibited vehicles on the track is 50 penalty units, which is equivalent to about an $8,000 fine.

Go to Tablelands Regional Council’s website to fill in the survey.

Join us as we welcome our newest Aussie citizens and celebrate the outstanding contributions of our residents at the Australia Day Awards ceremony!

Yvonne Cupitt is taking a stand for the pademelons dying along the rail trail near the Tolga scrub.

‘Lucky’ is one of the pademelon joeys rescued by Yvonne and is said to be thriving in care.

People living at the Thyme Lifestyle Resort in Mareeba are enjoying new facilities including a pickleball court and the Banksia Lounge.

Thyme to enjoy the lifestyle

SENIORS living at Mareeba’s Thyme Lifestyle Resort are enjoying new social and recreational facilities.

The gated community, which is for people aged over 50, has opened a newly upgraded clubhouse in the heart of the resort on Anzac Avenue.

The clubhouse features several additions including the Banksia Lounge which is the perfect place for a coffee catchup or to host for a private event, the Games Room for a match of pool or darts plus a new pickleball court, bowling green, and the Sundowner Deck.

“Our investment in Thyme Mareeba has not only transformed the resort facilities it has elevated the lifestyle we offer homeowners in the community,” Serenitas CEO Von Slater said.

“Listening to feedback from our homeowners we know the Games Room is going to be a popular destination for pool and snooker competitions, whilst the new pickleball court we anticipate will become a popular activity, being the world’s fastest growing sport.”

Policy encourages more EV charging stations

MORE electric vehicle charging stations may be located within the Tablelands Regional Council area after a new policy was endorsed that guides how and where best to site them.

A report to council revealed that the rise in the uptake in electric vehicles (EVs) was 107% last year, triggering the need for more charging stations.

“I’m excited about this – it just brings us up to where the world is going and I think it’s fantastic – super proud of this one,” Cr Kylie Lang said when the item came before council in December.

Deputy Mayor Cr Dave Bilney agreed, saying the document would guide the strategic placement of charging infrastructure on councilowned land.

“Having a policy will enable consistent planning, encouraging private sector investment and creating an economic benefit by drawing those people onto the Tablelands,” he said.

“We know there’s a deficiency so I think the policy will be well received

by the community who have been asking for something.”

A council report said the availability of electric vehicle charging stations was “crucial for the accelerated uptake and use of EVs by residents, visitors and commercial road users, which in turn will reduce carbon emissions, cost of transport and promote economic development”.

“In our region, transportation is the highest (40%) contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, with light vehicles making up 70% of total transportation emissions,” it stated.

“The number and percentage of EVs on Queensland roads is increasing every year, with EV uptake in Far North Queensland up by 86% since 2023.

“In the TRC local government area, the increase since last year was 107%.

“To further encourage this transition and to ensure EV operators are supported by adequate charging infrastructure, TRC is supporting the installation of third party-owned and operated EV charging stations.”

Seniors take to the pool

FREE Aqua Fit sessions for seniors are back for 2025, with weekly sessions held at Mareeba and Kuranda swimming pools.

The free classes allow seniors to enjoy low impact exercises to promote strength, flexibility and cardio all while making new friends at the pool.

Apart from public holidays, the sessions for Mareeba Pool are held on Mondays at 5.15pm (variety session) and every Saturday at 9am

(easy session).

The Aqua Fit sessions at Kuranda are held on the first and third Monday of the month at 9.30am.

Participants are asked to bring a towel and water bottle. All other equipment will be supplied. Sessions will be held until 19 April 2025.

For bookings and enquiries, please contact Marlin Coast Swimming and Fitness on moveitaqua@mcsf.com. au or phone 4092 1691.

Crossing near completion Unique dog training facility proposed for Mareeba

WORKS are ongoing at the Cobra Creek crossing on Emerald End Road, after the section of road washed away during the 2023 Cyclone Jasper flooding event.

“It is great to see the recent progress being made at Cobra Creek crossing,” Mareeba Mayor Angela Toppin said.

After significant flooding in 2023, the crossing completely washed away and left over 100 residents cut off and without water service for several days.

As a temporary measure, council created a side track and one-lane bridge to restore access to residents.

Since the damage was caused, a water main was reinstated, and a large concrete base installed at the crossing as well as box culverts.

Just before Christmas, work crews were backfilling the culverts and moving on to pouring the downstream headwall and wingwalls.

The new design is expected to create a structure better able to withstand the strong creek flows of future wet seasons.

Mayor Toppin said the project was expected to be fully completed early in the new year.

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

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.

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

A UNIQUE proposal for a facility focussed on training assistance dogs as well as proving overnight dog boarding and doggy day care services has been lodged with Mareeba Shire Council.

The development application by Ms Taylor Skinner of Alpha Lykos K9 would be established in Effley Street in the Mareeba Industrial Estate and would provide specialised training for reactive and aggressive dogs, specialised training for assistance dogs, and sale of dog food and other products.

According to the development application lodged with the council, the facility will also provide a service for interstate customers who could travel to Mareeba and participate in specialised assistance dog training and boarding.

“The facility will allow people to come to the premises and train their dog with one-on-one sessions with experienced trainers as well as other group training sessions involving multiple dogs,” the application stated.

“A significant component of the training to be undertaken on site is the training of dogs to assist people with a wide range of disabilities.

“These dogs are known as Assistance Dogs and provide independence, self-esteem, improved health and relationships to individuals and families – resulting in stronger and more successful communities.

“This is a one-of-a-kind facility supporting clients with disabilities, across a span of disabilities, ages, races and communities across Australia, to bring their assistance dog to the facility for expert training.”

According to the planning document, the applicant advised they currently had 21 assistance dog clients enrolled across Australia and expected a further 15 to 20 additional clients each year who would seek to use the service.

“The trainers also specialise in working with aggressive dogs and nervous dogs and will work on problem behaviours, reducing issues of aggressive and reactive dogs in the community,” the application states.

“The trainer currently engages in free training for the Mareeba Animal Refuge. This facility will give the Mareeba Animal Refuge a place to bring the aggressive dogs to work on their issues and to enhance their opportunity to be adopted.

“There will be an option for dogs from the animal refuge, during slow periods, to come and stay at the facility and be a part of the daycare to work on their socialising with other animals.”

The proposal also includes the establishment of a commercial kitchen within the development which would be used to prepare and provide dog food for purchase by the customers either in person or online.

The business would also offer a dog day care service for a maximum of 20 dogs, using a large central area of the building which will also be air conditioned.

Fifteen separate dog kennels, also air conditioned, would also be built to allow for overnight boarding of animals.

The proposal is currently being assessed by the council.

Council crews are working hard to get the new Cobra Creek crossing finished early this year.

Damage done to the Cobra Creek crossing on Emerald End Road in late 2023.

ENTERTAINMENT

Play a political thriller

ATHERTON Performing Arts is gearing up for its latest production, Shakespeare’s political thriller Julius Caesar.

Featuring many of the talented actors from last year’s Romeo and Juliet, and an exciting modern setting, the production is being directed by Sarah Riber who also directed Romeo and Juliet and Into the Woods.

The play follows returning general Julius Caesar who gains unprecedented power in the Roman Republic. A group of political

rivals fear he will become a tyrannical dictator and plot to assassinate him.

The fast-paced plot takes the audience on a journey through conspiracy, friendship, betrayal and war, while showcasing many of Shakespeare’s most famous lines and memorable speeches.

The play will be performed from 24 January to 2 February, with tickets available at the theatre or Tablelands Books in Atherton.

THE Mareeba Heritage Centre will become a hunting ground for young people on Thursday as it opens up for its first ever Heritage Hunt.

The event, between 10am and 1pm, gives children “a bit of holiday fun before the school year begins”, centre manager Sandrine Gloton said.

“The treasure hunt will be held inside the museum and children will be given questions and clues to find certain items,” she said.

“We have a lot of exhibits here so we have picked out some funny, quirky things to search for.”

While it is not a competition, Sandrine said there would be a Treasure Chest full of gifts for participants.

Other activities will include facepainting, stories, crafts, sack races, fossicking and oldstyled games.

The hunt is suitable for children between four and 12, who are “encouraged to dress up”.

PERFORMING ARTS

Children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Entry is the usual $5, and in a nice reversal, parents and guardians get in for free.

JULIUS CAESAR

Sandrine, who has been manager for the past 18 months, said the museum was hoping to develop more events like this through the year, especially in school holidays, and instil a love of heritage in the younger generations.

“It’s a wonderful place to work, it’s such a fun vibe,” she said.

“Most of all I love that we have such super-dedicated volunteers. We have about 40 and the average age is about 75. One person is 95, she’s a pocket rocket.”

The Mareeba Heritage Centre Heritage Hunt is on Thursday 23 January, from 10 am to 1pm. Bookings are essential on 4092 5674. BYO picnic.

Actors pictured in their dress rehearsal for Julius Caesar.

The Malanda Big Pub gets right into Australia Day celebrations.

National day fun awaits ENTERTAINMENT

LOTS of fun will be had on Australia Day, with events being staged across the region to celebrate our national day.

Malanda will again host a massive party that personifies the Aussie character including toad races and thong-throwing.

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.

Adults and children can have fun with thong throwing competition and there will be prizes for the Best Dressed female and male, as well as face painting and live music.

For more information call 4096 7720.

In Mareeba, locals are invited to attend the Shire’s Australia Day citizenship ceremony and awards which kick off at the Cedric Davies Community Hub on Anzac Avenue.

This year, Mareeba Shire Council is partnering with the Lions Club of Mareeba to provide a free sausage sizzle. There will also be cake, tea and coffee available after the ceremony.

There will be free face painting and fun activities for children.

In Dimbulah, the QCWA will be hosting a great family fun morning which will feature market stalls, a sausage sizzle, live music, whip cracking, bush poets, Aussie games and more.

The event starts at 8am and finishes at 12 noon.

In Atherton, locals are invited to come along the Tablelands Regional Council’s award ceremony at the Atherton International Club from 10am.

After the ceremony, attendees are invited to stay for a light lunch and partake in the Australia Day cake.

On the public holiday on Monday, the Australia Day Prayer 2025 will be held at Millaa Millaa.

The event will feature damper billy tea and damper from 9.30am, followed by prayers and celebrations, followed by a BBQ lunch from 12.30pm.

Special guest will be Member for Hill Shane Knuth.

For inquiries, call Lyndon Hockey on 0428 772 902, or Delwyn Hockey on 0408 702 367. The event will be held at Hockey’s Farm located at RN4741 Palmerston Highway at Millaa Millaa.

ON LANDthe

Business loans rate on hold

AUSTRALIAN Government

farm business lender, RIC (Regional Investment Corporation) has announced the variable interest rate on all concessional farm business loans will remain at the low rate of 5.18% effective from 1 February 2025 for six months until the next review period.

RIC chief executive officer John Howard said RIC’s low interest rates continued to provide a concessional benefit to farm businesses in financial need.

“RIC concessional interest rates will stay the same which

is welcome news for thousands of RIC farm business loan customers across Australia, providing much-needed breathing space, greater certainty to manage cash flow, and stability to strengthen their longterm financial position,” he said.

“Our RIC Farm Loans Customer Insights Brief 2024 revealed that high interest rates and farm production costs remain the biggest concerns for farmers. RIC low-cost loans continue to provide a concessional benefit to help ease that cost pressure.”

Mr Howard said RIC interest rates are only reviewed twice a

year, bringing some certainty to RIC customers in planning their financial forecasts.

“One of the key benefits of RIC loans is interest rates are only reviewed every six months and are based on the average of the Australian Government 10-year bond rate, not Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) cash rate movements,” he said.

“Since the start-up of RIC in July 2018, RIC concessional loans have saved our customers an estimated $307 million in interest repayments.”

Farm businesses with a concessional RIC loan also

benefit from no application fees, no ongoing management fees, and no penalty fees for extra or early repayment.

RIC loans have a 10-year term with interest-only repayments for the first five years, followed by principal and interest repayments for the remainder of the loan term.

Farm businesses can borrow up to $2 million. Farm-related small businesses can borrow up to half a million dollars. Eligibility and assessment criteria apply. For more information on RIC loans, visit www.ric.gov.au

Keen to get dairy plan going

WITH the Dairy Industry Plan for Queensland now completed, eastAUSmilk is urging government and industry participants to commit to its implementation.

Government relations manager for eastAUSmilk, Mike Smith, said the organisation expected to meet with the Minister’s advisors and Department of Primary Industries this month, asking that resourcing and implementation get underway as soon as possible. Driven by concerns about

the decline in milk production across the state, the plan is the culmination of extensive consultation – farmer district meetings across Queensland, one-on-one meetings, online feedback options, and individuals emailed their analyses, views, and suggestions.

The plan’s focus is reversing the decline in production, and building the economic viability of dairy farming across Queensland, and identifies four broad priority areas which can make a difference:

• financing the future – how to enable capital inflows to the farming section;

• pathways into the industry –how to get new participants to operate farms;

• risk mitigation for stable production – how to manage climate variability and other risks in a changing world; and

• productivity improvement –how to get the same, or more, milk for less inputs.

Mr Smith said the plan identified 15 action items which were best placed to provide responses to those priorities, with five of the 15 prioritised for immediate action:

• Improved support and more accessible information, including legal options, for industry entry and exit;

• Comprehensive climate and natural disaster program for dairying e.g. infrastructure to mitigate heat stress, mitigate feed issues in the wet, on farm

sustainability, renewables;

• Identification of barriers and solutions to expand feedstock options, including imported strains, for pest and disease management, and further understand the barriers for the use of GMO feedstock options, and explore potential solutions;

• Supporting and facilitating on-farm uptake of changed practice, including new automation, technology and production systems; and,

• Improving the productivity, and management, of pastures. Implementation of the plan is to be managed by an industry led group including eastAUSmilk, processors, government, and SubTropical Dairy.

Katter welcomes farm connectivity funding

MEMBER for Kennedy Bob Katter has acknowledged the Federal Government’s efforts in providing an additional $20 million for the On Farm Connectivity Program (OFCP) but emphasised that it falls far short of addressing the fundamental issues facing farmers in rural and regional Australia.

“While I certainly commend Minister Rowland for recognising the importance of connectivity and investing in this ag-tech program, the truth is this is only part of the solution,” he said.

“We need to ensure that all farmers, particularly in remote areas, have access to reliable telecommunications and infrastructure across the board.

“I’ve had a constituent case recently where this person lives on an isolated cattle station with no service and no ability to call emergency services.

“Had this program been operating at the time, and the station had proper service, then perhaps her husband may not have lost his life.”

Mr Katter said that he would continue to put pressure on the government to continue improving telecommunications across rural Australia, alongside their work on programs like

the OFCP.

He is also asking people within his electorate to contact him regarding “black spots” in coverage ahead of the next round of the Mobile Black Spot Program being funded.

Mr Katter also reiterated his longstanding opposition to the privatisation of Telstra, highlighting the continuing challenges it poses for rural Australians.

“Telstra should never have been privatised. In a perfect world, reliable phone lines and internet access would be as basic as water and power,” he said.

“Unfortunately, under the privatised system, that’s not

always the case for farmers in places like Julia Creek or stations in the Gulf of Carpentaria.

“Anyone who thinks that when Mary Murgatroyd’s phone breaks down in Julia Creek, she’ll get it fixed quickly under the current system is kidding themselves. If we’re serious about supporting our farmers and rural communities, we need to rethink the privatisation of our telecommunications network.

“Essential services like telecommunications should never be sold off.”

He pointed out that while programs like the OFCP helped improve connectivity for agtech solutions, farmers still faced significant hurdles in accessing basic services such as reliable phone and internet connections, which were essential not only for business but for emergencies.

“We’re seeing real benefits from this program, and I don’t want to downplay that. But what’s needed alongside it is a government that prioritises the basics – whether it’s ensuring we have enough water for irrigation, energy for operations, or phone lines that can stay connected in weather events or a piece of equipment goes down,” Mr Katter added.

Member for Kennedy

Bob Katter wants better connectivity for rural areas.

ON LANDthe

Farmers help protect land, reef and the rainforest

THE benefits of ongoing funding of landscape restoration on the Atherton Tablelands is helping farmers improve their land, while also protecting the upper catchment of the Great Barrier Reef and building resilience into the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area.

The Wet Tropics Management Authority’s (WTMA) fourth year of delivering part of the Queensland Government’s $33.5 million Reef Assist Program, funded under the Queensland Reef Water Quality Program, has resulted in streambank restoration of tributaries in the Barron River catchment.

Situated on Tableland Yidinji and Ngadjon-Jii Country, the work is improving water quality flowing out to the reef.

“The work we have been doing with landowners of the Atherton Tablelands

since 2020 thanks to the Reef Assist Program is testament to the power of collaboration,” WTMA executive director Scott Buchanan said.

“In this project, government, farmers and landscape restoration experts have worked closely together over time to create an outcome that is good for the Reef, good for the rainforest and good for the community.

“Farmers are the environmental stewards of their land and caretakers of our precious environment, and by working closely with them we have been able to replant Mabi forest species in places that were problem areas for farmers, such as gullies and streambanks.”

Cane farmer Adrian Gallo, on whose land part of the authority’s most recent Reef Assist project on the Tablelands was completed, said: “It’s been a

really positive experience seeing these areas replanted is improving my land.

“We are looking at expanding the revegetation area, perhaps looking at ways to claim carbon credits to get more trees in the ground and creating other income streams for the farm that have a more positive impact on our land for future generations.”

The WTMA project partner, NQ Land Management Services, has successfully planted 23 hectares across two sites with more than 46,000 trees, made up of more than 30 endemic species, while creating five full-time field positions.

The new work is helping stabilise streambanks in the upper catchment of the Great Barrier Reef, while also creating wildlife corridors and enhancing the boundary of the World Heritage Area.

Projects like this have also created socioeconomic opportunities in the region, where since 2020 NQ Land Management Services has created nine permanent full-time positions, including Heather Grant, who started as a trainee in 2020 and is now a field supervisor.

“Through my journey, I’ve learnt which trees go in which areas, which has allowed me to gain a supervisor position...it gives young women, like myself, a lot of confidence.” Heather said.

Throughout the year, the new NQ Land Management Services field staff have been upskilling, completing a Certificate III in Conservation and Ecosystem Management.

CEO of NQ Land Management Services Geoff Onus said: “This initiative by the Queensland

Government’s Reef Assist program has been successful in our region because government and industry have worked together and continued the work over several years.

“Landscape restoration takes time, expertise and dedication, and because funding has been ongoing, the benefits are as clear as day. For example, planting forest corridors in awkward areas, like steep eroding gullies of little economic value, provide winwin outcomes for the environment and farmers.”

“I have been doing landscape restoration a long time and it’s great to see government seeing the value of ongoing funding support. It creates skilled jobs, improves our agricultural land and protects our two irreplaceable World Heritage Areas, the reef and the rainforest.”

Atherton Tablelands cane farmer Adrian Gallo inspecting revegetation on his stream bank.

The Gallo farm.

Heather Grant with NQLMS field staff testing stream water quality at the Gallo farm.

LETTERS to the editor

Hillside clearing a concern

ONCE again, I’m wondering why the land on the hillside on Millaa Millaa Road, just before the turn off to Ravenshoe, has been allowed to be cleared and especially before the wet season?

And why at all? Haven’t we seen enough environmental degradation up here over the decades!!!

So what are you councillors doing about this? Or you just turning a blind eye as most councillors have done in the past?

Hopefully next election we will have new councillors or actually do something and protect what little we have left on the Tablelands and put big fines in place to stop this from happening in the future and do something about the mass amount of run-off we see every year!

The reason we have no fringing reef left. And eventually the Great Barrier Reef.

Local people are also fed up seeing prime agriculture land being cut up for unwanted residential development with no benefit to them - only putting more stress on our infrastructure.

Change your ways councillors or you will be out!

Ian Locke ATHERTON

Cremation better for land

I READ with great enthusiasm The Express news item relating to the natural assets of the Tablelands (TRC’s new Natural Assets strategy).

Very briefly, we can reforest many acres of the land using natural burials of human corpses. Using biodegradable caskets, we can bury corpses and then plant native trees on top.

By using this strategy, the trees would have nutrients to build on.

To cremate is using the finite source of gas and irrespective of cost and all else, the focal point must always be in the interests of the next generation because at this point of time they have a rather dubious future.

I am willing to assist in any way I can.

Dr. Vince Hawley (retired) MAREEBA

Storm temps tell the story

I’VE been asked to stop flaming climate frightbats here and to focus on providing the climate facts that align with people’s lived experience. I’m happy to do that if The Express stops publishing their childish ad hominem attacks: playing whacka-moron is fun but it does get boring over time.

On Tuesday afternoon last week (14/01), a thunderstorm rolled over Tolga and Atherton. The temperature dropped from 33C to 20C in about 10 minutes. It stayed cloudy and cool for the rest of the day. So where did all Tuesday’s accumulated heat go?

Thunderstorms and cyclones have central updrafts. That’s where the air goes after the wind rushes into the centre of the storm. That updraft takes that heat to the tropopause – the top boundary of the troposphere. The troposphere is where we live and where weather happens.

From the tropopause, the heat heads ever upward through the cold stratosphere on its return journey to space.

Thunderstorms eject heat faster than it would normally dissipate. They get rid of excess heat quickly and effectively. Thunderstorms around

PHOTO OF THE WEEK

THEME: Growth. WINNER: Yvonna Coffey. DETAILS: As I was wandering through the rainforest I found this interesting photo. I loved the texture of the two trees entwined in the battle of growth.

Earth’s watery equator are the planet’s automatic thermostats: they’re why Earth can never overheat.

If CO2 could trap heat in the way the political left claim (which includes the Liberal-National party), Tuesday’s thunderstorm would not have vacuumed away Tuesday’s heat. The CO2 would have kept radiating heat in the impossible way they claim it does.

In fact, planetary baseline surface temperature has nothing to do with atmospheric gas mix. It’s an artefact of gravity, atmospheric mass, geothermal heat, and total irradiation received.

That’s why there’s an adiabatic lapse rate, which any pilot can explain to you. It’s cooler at higher altitudes because there’s less atmosphere above there.

Two scientists developed one equation that accurately calculates the baseline surface temperature of every planet and moon in the solar system that has an atmosphere regardless of gas mix.

Venus is hot because it has a heavy atmosphere and receives more solar heat. Mars is cold because it has a light atmosphere and receives less solar heat. Both have over 95% CO2.

If the climate-alarm industrial complex’s claims about CO2 trapping heat were correct, Mars would be hot.

The climate-alarm industrial complex claims the pressure of the mass of the atmosphere against the planet’s surface only caused heating once, during the formation of the atmosphere.

But that’s false because gravity’s pull is constant. Here’s a simple experiment to prove it. Pick up a bowling ball and extend your arm horizontally so the ball is at rest against the palm of your hand. Did gravity stop pulling on it?

Remember, Earth’s CO2 is 0.04% of the atmosphere and all life depends on it. Plants use it as food. They use sunlight to break up the CO2 to make carbohydrates. They release some of the oxygen and we breathe it.

More people than ever are accepting that CO2 can’t trap heat, that there’s precious little of it in the atmosphere, and that it’s vital for all life. They’re wondering why the climate-alarm industrial complex is demonising such a vital molecule in the life cycle of all plants and animals and why they’d want to destroy modern civilisation and also end all life.

In fact, the CO2-alarmists know that atmospheric CO2 levels are an artefact of the temperature of Earth’s 1.335 billion cubic kilometres of seawater and Henry’s Law.

The oceans are still warming from the Little Ice Age (~1350 - ~1850). As they warm, they outgas dissolved CO2. When the sun goes quiet and the oceans start cooling again, they’ll absorb CO2 – which is the real risk to life.

Life on Earth nearly ended during the last glacial maximum, which ended about 12,000 years ago. CO2 levels fell so low that plants struggled to survive. Without plants, animals die. Warmth and high CO2 are great for all life. Cold and low CO2 spell death.

Those at the top of the climate-alarm industrial complex who drive the lies about CO2 are only using it to scare the gullible so as to enrich and empower themselves.

That’s why no politicians who goes along with those lies is worth your vote. They’re either complicit or they’re stupid: pick one.

MAREEBA LIONS CLUB NEWS

HAPPY NEW YEAR. As we start a new year, we reflect on what has happened the past year. As usual Mareeba Lions have been active in the local community supporting worthwhile causes and individuals.

Together with Rotary, FNQ Fruit and Vegetable Growers and, a private donation we supported the funding of the Serenity Gardens at the Mareeba Hospital palliative care ward.

The Club was invited by Rotary to coordinate the Christmas Markets in Byrnes Street in conjunction with the Rotary sponsored Christmas Carols. This was a great success, with many letters to Santa posted in the Christmas Mailbox provided by The Express newspaper.

We assisted Santa and over 70 letters from Santa were delivered to children.

The end of the year also saw the Mareeba Lions Christmas raffle drawn. Through the raffle, the Mareeba Lions Club raises funds which in turn are used to assist local, national and international humanitarian causes. Sporting Clubs and other not-for-profit associations also benefited from the Christmas raffle.

JANUARY 2025

The Mareeba Markets continue to be very popular and have recently expanded into previously unused land at the Northern end of 100 Park.

Before the end of the year we were able to renew the “100 Park” Arch and sign at the northern end of Centenary Park and install a new markets sign at the southern end of Ant Hill Park.

This work was assisted by the valuable donation of time and equipment by Cabassi Farming, Mareeba Crane Hire, P & D Hodgson painters, Tom Bishop and Rhys Tiberi.

Clubs who participate sell the Lions tickets and keep half of the sales for themselves. In this way local clubs received a direct benefit of over $4,000. Although the Lions Christmas raffle has been drawn, there are still Christmas cakes available at several outlets including Outback Solar, Piagnos News and Bendigo Bank.

A number of regular events are in the pipeline including the regular monthly markets, Youth of the Year, Family Fun Metrogaine, Laura races, Cairns to Karumba bike ride, Christmas in July, and Rodeo parade side show alley to name a few.

Remember you can support your local Mareeba Lions by taking your recyclable containers to Containers for Change, 11 Bowers Street, and quote Scheme ID C10128319. The depot is out near the cattle sale yards.

No need to package just take your recyclables out there and quote the ID number for Lions. Don’t waste the containers help your local Lions Club by dropping them off for recycling.

As well, you can recycle vehicle batteries by dropping off at Brunos Batteries, or Lions will collect from you if that suits you better. Lions also receive postage stamps and eye glasses for recycling.

Although membership of Lions is by invitation, you are invited to enquire about joining this great volunteer international humanitarian organisation.

Fellowship, good times, meeting people, building lasting friendships, service to the community, learning new skills, leadership and personal development - these are some of the reasons we are the Lions.

Lions meet in Mareeba at the Mareeba Leagues Club at 6.30pm on the first and third Tuesday of the month.

Peter Campion TOLGA

Rural meets waterfront

SITUATED on the corner of Blake and Powley Road, this exceptional 11.09ha (approx. 27.4 ac) property is a rare opportunity for those who value quality and location. With Sunwater as its boundary and direct access to Tinaroo, it’s a haven for boating, camping, and fishing enthusiasts, offering plenty of space for all your outdoor toys.

The home has been quality built by renowned local builder Peter Delai. Constructed from masonry block, it boasts ample storage and is designed for durability and comfort. Set amidst beautifully landscaped gardens spanning two acres, the house is perfectly positioned to capture breathtaking water views.

House Features:

• Spacious air-conditioned living area opening up on to the front patio and capturing the views

• Generous sized kitchen with ample storage, pantry and gas cooktop

• 2 Large bedrooms with full width built-in robes and a 3rd bedroom located off the garage ideal for visitors

• Main bathroom tiled to the ceiling with easy access shower separate powder room & toilet.

• Front and rear patios providing year-round comfort and plenty of outdoor space to relax

• Triple garage with remote access roller doors each 4m in width with high clearance and the middle bay with extra depth to accommodate caravan or 2 vehicle tandemly. There is also a separate lock up store room.

• Second bathroom located at the rear of the home

The remaining property is fully fenced and divided into two paddocks, comfortably accommodating 16 head of cattle year-round. Property highlights include:

• An additional 4 bay shed16m x 9 m shed with concrete driveway and mezzanine

storage over one bay.

• 28000L and 8000L water tank fed by the bore with 2 pumps independently controlled.

• Dam providing a fishing hot spot

• Boat ramp at the rear boundary so you can launch your boat straight into Tinaroo.

• Raised Garden Beds and established fruit trees including limes, oranges, lemonade, lemons, mandarins, mangoes, lychees and more!

Every detail has been thoughtfully considered by the current owners, who meticulously established the property with love and care over the last 17 years. From the placement of pipes to the species of every tree planted, you’ll inherit a comprehensive knowledge of this remarkable land.

Location, lifestyle and grazing in Ravenshoe

THE private 125 ac is a unique parcel, having permanent water supplied by a natural spring fed creek and bordering South Cedar Creek. The infrastructure is nestled against the open forest and the Rose Gum timber that features throughout the house was sourced from the property. The established gardens have been professionally landscaped

to entice the birds, bees and butterflies, using colourful natives.

Property Features: Main Residence

• Open plan kitchen, sunroom, media room, dining & lounge with two way fire place

• Modern kitchen with stone bench tops, 900mm gas oven and cooktop, rangehood, 2 drawer dishwasher, walk in pantry

• Huge internal laundry

• Bathroom with separate shower, toilet and vanity

• The whole second floor is devoted to the master suite and what an exceptional area this is - open plan with polished timber floors, master bedroom with private balcony, huge office area with access to the deck, be pampered in the spacious spa room, walk in shower with double shower heads, double vanity with stone bench tops and his and hers built in cabinetry shelving, huge walk in robe with

unbelievable hanging, drawer and robe space

• Tiled and screened throughout with raked ceilings and ceiling fans

• Double carport

• Outdoor entertaining area with outdoor shower connects the..

Second Residence, potential for Air BnB

• Open plan kitchen, dining and lounge

• Modern kitchen with stone bench tops with gas cooktop

• Two bedrooms with polished timber floors and built in robes

• Main bathroom with separate toilet, shower and vanity

• Internal laundry

• Outdoor patio

• Tiled, screened and fans throughout

Caretakers Cottage - The shed is fully insulated and lined with one bedroom, open plan kitchen, dining and lounge with wood heater and air-con, bathroom and internal laundry. Single carport. 10m x 16m 3 phase powered machinery shed with concrete floor which houses the generator and solar panels, batteries and inverter. Lawn locker, chook run and veggie gardens. The two main water tanks are supplied spring water via the ram pump and shed tank collects rain water. This beautiful property has a remarkable stock carrying capacity due to the rich pastures and legumes and impeccable weight gain results.

Perfect 5 acre family home close to town

WHAT a wonderful opportunity to purchase this beautiful 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:

• Solid masonry block home

• Modern kitchen with electric appliances, breakfast bar, dishwasher, and plenty of cupboard space.

• Spacious open plan living

• 4 bedrooms, 3 bedrooms with built in robes

• Master bedroom separate from the main house features an ensuite, walk-in robe and views of the pool.

• Study/5th bedroom

• Media/rumpus room

• Internal laundry with a linen cupboard, sink and toilet

• Recently renovated main bathroom with tiles to ceiling, bathtub, separate shower, and a vanity unit.

• Ceiling fans, screens, and plenty of storage throughout home

• Covered front patio overlooking the front garden

• Private covered entertainment area overlooking the pool

• 60,000L Inground salt water pool with a waterfall – perfect to entertain the kids

• 4 bay powered block shed (approx..14m x 7m)

• Solar system – Save on those electricity bills!

• No rear neighbours, property backs onto state forest

• 100 year old trees in rainforest section with a seasonal creek + forest

• All weather sealed driveway

• Septic, town water

• Potential 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. When you want just the right amount of space to feel at one with nature, but don’t want to spend your entire weekend maintaining it, 35-37 Page Road is the one you want! For further information or to arrange an inspection, call exclusive marketing agent Raquel Cunzolo.

35-37 Page Road, ATHERTON Offers Over $860,000

10 acre vacant land on the Granite Creek

THE perfect block of land doesn’t exi... wait a minute! ... we think the perfect block of land does exist! And we have found it!! Welcome to Lot 36 Blacks Road Mareeba.

The ultimate blank canvas is being presented for sale and it is packed with features. With 4.05 ha, or approximately 10 ac of vacant land, less than 3km from the town centre, this allotment is ready for someone’s lifestyle dream to come true.

You will have plenty of room to build your dream home and dream shed, have a huge fenced yard for pets, as well as your own slice of heaven down on the sandy banks of the Granite Creek.

Recently surveyed, the 10 acre allotment boasts approximately 8 ac of cleared flat land and approx. 2 acres of treed and undulating creek frontage

along a stretch of almost 150m of the Granite Creek, this property has everything.

Watch the kids swim, put up a tree swing, cool off in the summer time or even have a canoe down the creek yourself, what a life, what a location!

The block boasts bitumen road frontage, mains power is available at the front boundary, and was also previously connected to a domestic service at the rear.

Town water is already connected and a water meter is installed inside the front boundary of the allotment, so even though you will have a riparian

Address: Price: Agent:

right to the Creek, you have town water as well. The best of both worlds!

• Your dream property awaits.

• Bitumen road, Mains power, Town water connected

• Less than 3km from CBD

• Huge development potential with blocks around it already sub-divided. Vacant land allotments like this only come along once in a lifetime, so don’t delay, get in and register your interest today.

Call exclusive agent Remo Esposito on 0401969473, or email remo@crmareeba. com for more information.

Contact: Lot 36 Blacks Road, MAREEBA

$700,000 EXCLUSIVE to Remo Esposito Central Realty 0401 969 473 or 4092 2232

THIS stunning brand new 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom home is ready to move into and positioned in highly sought after Amaroo Estate on the Cairns side of Mareeba.

Quality built by Anthony Langtree it offers a crisp neutral interior, superior fixtures & fittings, a well designed floor plan and plenty of extras.

Property Features:

• Practical floorplan with 2.7m high ceilings and insulated roof

• Fully tiled and split system air-conditioned

• 3 generous bedrooms with mirrored built-in robes

• Master bedroom with stylish ensuite and walk in robe with built- in cabinetry

• Sizeable central kitchen with glass splash back, designated fridge space,

island bench/breakfast bar and quality Bosch appliances

• Open plan living area with closable cavity sliding door so you can separate the living areas from the bedrooms and keep the air-conditioning contained

• Laundry with built-in storage cupboard + hallway storage cupboard

• Substantial L shaped patio with sliding door access from the kitchen/living

• 6.6kw solar power system + fully concreted clothesline area

• Garage with block rendered internal walls and sizeable built-in

storage cupboard

• Tinted windows, security screens and window furnishings

• 973m2 allotment, turfed and colorbond fenced to 3 sides with automatic irrigation

• Walking distance to Amaroo Medical Centre, Park & future shops

It’s rare that you find a home of this calibre in such an affordable price range built with quality and style, yet still practical for the family.

For further information

please contact exclusive agent Joe Torrisi today.

VACANT land presents you with the opportunity to create something special without the obstacle of a pre-existing house.

As home sites are becoming significantly smaller, this expansive 1,000m² allotment provides abundant space for a quality home with a 33 metre road frontage.

A CHARMING residence that combines comfort and practicality in a prime location.

This brick veneer home features three bedrooms, each equipped with built-in robes, ensuring ample storage and a tidy living space. The flooring in the bedrooms is carpet, while the remainder of the house is durable vinyl, making it both stylish and easy to maintain.

The kitchen, which is in good

condition, provides a functional space for meal preparation and family gatherings. The bathroom has been thoughtfully renovated with a step in shower, and a separate toilet.

Comfort is prioritized with air conditioning units installed in both the bedrooms and the living area, ensuring a pleasant environment throughout the year. A fireplace in the open plan living area provides

warmth and ambiance for cool winter nights and mornings. Additionally, the garage is lined, making it a versatile space that can easily serve as an extra room or living area, catering to your family’s needs.

At the front of the property, a double carport offers convenient parking, while a spacious two-bay shed at the back comes equipped with bathroom facilities and power,

providing an excellent space for hobbies, storage or a workshop. The fully fenced yard ensures privacy and security, making it ideal for children and pets to play freely.

The rear patio a lovely spit to sit and enjoy warm evenings or having a morning cuppa. An entry foyer welcomes you into the home, adding an element of sophistication and charm from the moment you step inside.

The property consists of 2 high-set duplex units each consisting of 2 bedrooms and 1 bathroom and an open plan kitchen/living. There is

THIS excellent investment opportunity will start earning from day 1 with long term reliable and permanent residents in place. The returns are excellent with current tenants providing an income of $400.00 per week.

a shared front verandah and the laundries are located downstairs. Under cover car parks are available and the large backyard is separately fully fenced and backs onto bushland.

Situated in an elevated and nice street in Ravenshoe with a lovely outlook this property is a must to inspect if you are wanting make a secure investment purchase.

BIG WORD SEARCH

CROSSWORD

25. Instead. (4)

27. Wipe liquid away from a surface with something absorbent. (3,2)

28. Deep mental involvement in something. (9)

29. A recently married person. (8)

30. A set of things working together as parts of a mechanism or an interconnecting network; a complex whole. (6) DOWN:

1. County of southwestern England on Bristol Channel (8)

2. An act of driving a motor vehicle that one is considering buying. (4,5)

3. Make (someone) annoyed or irritated. (4)

5. A person or thing that is likely to cause harm; a threat or danger. (7)

6. A typically black or blackish mineral that occurs as prismatic crystals in granitic and other rocks (10)

7. A rough path or road, typically one beaten by use rather than constructed. (5)

8. Say something as a comment; mention. (6)

9. A mark used over a vowel, especially in German, to indicate a different vowel quality. (6)

1. The planet

Q R P

B O E P H U P O S I T I V E E G S U E

B N C R E L E A S E I N U V R X R O R

U E C H A R B O U R T E A L F X G C I

B C A L C U L A T I O N J G N A G R O

S P E C I M E N A S S E S S M E N T D

D X S G H Y O M W C C O N D I T I O N

(6)

4. Someone who copies the behaviour or actions of another. (8)

10. Someone who does special exercises to develop a brawny musculature. (9)

11. Deprive or free (someone) of arms or armour. (5)

12. Offensively impolite or bad-mannered. (4)

13. A person who arranges marriages or initiates romantic relationships between others. (10)

15. An adjective or phrase expressing a quality or attribute regarded as characteristic of the person or thing mentioned. (7)

16. Watery liquid secreted into the mouth by glands (6)

19. The state of complete physical, mental and social well-being (6)

21. Light flat-bottomed boat, having a high point at each end and worked by one oar at the stern. (7)

23. A comprehensive description and explanation of an idea or theory. (10)

14. The study of the fundamental nature of knowledge, reality, and existence, especially when considered as an academic discipline. (10)

17. A person who plays a specific string instrument. (9)

18. A small European tree which has hanging clusters of yellow flowers followed by slender pods containing poisonous seeds. (8)

20. Start the engine of (a vehicle) by bypassing the ignition system, typically in order to steal it. (3-4)

21. Dark or poorly lit, especially so as to appear depressing or frightening. (6)

22. A person employed to do simple tasks such as running errands. (6)

24. American term for Custard Apple. (5)

26. An instance of excessive indulgence in a specified activity. (4)

WEEKLY HOROSCOPES

Travel will initiate new friendships or love connections. Travel and entertaining conversation will be informative and uplifting. Romance is quite possible if you are willing to approach someone who interests you. Don’t be too confident that coworkers are on your side.

Rely on yourself and you will look good to superiors. You will have a problem sorting out your true feelings when it comes to your relationship. Take your time. Don’t try to twist things around so that they sound more enticing.

Do not get involved with individuals who are already committed to others. Don’t delay; go to your physician or dentist and get to the bottom of the discomfort. You could easily lose your temper at work. Don’t push your opinions or ideas on others.

You need to take a long, hard look at yourself and your personal situation. Don’t let situations get out of control. Channel your energy into projects that will enhance your home. Friends may not be completely honest with you.

Do not let them blow situations out of proportion. Clear up domestic chores that have remained undone for some time. Go with the flow and don’t let the unsettled atmosphere get on your nerves. Join groups of a humanitarian nature.

You are best not to confront situations that deal with in-laws or relatives. You can gain valuable cultural knowledge through dealing with foreigners. Romantic opportunities will flourish through travel or communication.

Plan a trip to the country or take a drive to the beach. Travel opportunities should be your first choice. You can make money if you get involved in real estate deals. Real estate investments could be to your advantage.

Plan to get together with someone special. You may have the opportunity to get involved in some interesting conversations. You can make personal changes that will enhance your appearance and bring about greater social activity.

Don’t gossip. Go out with friends. If boredom has set in, find new and unique directions that offer interesting friendships. If you keep busy you won’t feel the personal pressures you are going through.

Children might be on your mind. Don’t hesitate to make special plans just for two. Someone you work with could try to undermine you. Money can be made if you use your ingenuity. Don’t use emotional blackmail on someone you love.

Your attitude is changing rapidly and your plate is overloaded. One sided attractions are likely. You may have a problem with co-workers if you try to tell them what to do. You may not be too pleased with the actions of those you live with.

Listen and formulate your course of action. You will be indecisive. Don’t trust coworkers with important or personal in formation. Uncertainty regarding your direction is likely. Make arrangements to spend quality time together.

PRESBYTERIANS

in Mareeba for worship

Sunday 10am, QCWA Hall, Wilkes Street (behind Meals on Wheels) ALL WELCOME!

John Alfred Harvey

Retired Accountant, late of Mareeba. Passed away on Saturday 28th December, 2024 surrounded by family. Aged 96 years.

Loving Husband of Margaret. Adored Father, Grandfather and Great Grandfather of Catherine, Stephen, Dan and their families.

IN LOVING MEMORY OF DAVIES, Kevin

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Kevin Davies on the 14th of January, 2025. Aged 56 years.

Beloved Husband of Pauline. Devoted Father to Bradley and Liam. Much loved Son of Cedric Snr (Dec.) and June Davies. Loved Brother of Cedric Jnr, Peter and their families. Kevin was a cherished member of our community and will be sadly missed by all.

A service to celebrate his life will be held at the Mareeba Anglican Church on the 24th of January, 2025 commencing at 10:30am. All who knew and loved Kevin are welcome to attend.

In lieu of ﬂowers, donations to the Mareeba Hospital Foundation - https://www.fnqhf.org.au/ donate/ in Kevin’s memory.

Mario Merletti

Passed away 22nd January, 1998

We think about you always, We talk about you still.

You have never been forgotten Dad, And you never will. We hold you close within our hearts, And there you will remain.

With thanks

PAOLA PIZZATTI

Laura, Marinella, and Silvana would like to thank all those who sent flowers, cards, texts, and phone calls. We offer our sincere gratitude to Drs Adrian, Shelley, and Peter and all the nursing staff in the palliative care ward at Mareeba Hospital. We want to express our heartfelt thanks to all the support workers at Kylie Close House who have cared for Paola over the years. Thank you to Sophie at Community Funerals for your compassion and professionalism. Please accept this as our personal thanks.

THE FAMILY OF THE LATE Herbert “Herb” Campman Bev, Shayne, Dean, Mark, Olivia and families would like to thank everyone who offered their sympathy and support during this difficult time.

We would like to thank Amaroo Medical, Ngoonbi Community Services, St John’s Community Care and Malanda Medical for their care during Herb’s life.

We’ve

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

SANTIN, Natalina “Lina” Late of Atherton. Passed away peacefully with family by her side on the 13th of January, 2025. Aged 93 years.

Loving Wife of Mario (Dec.). Very much loved Mum and Mother-in-law of Lucy & Garry, Nives & Louie and Mary & Livio. Doting Nonna of her 8 Grandchildren and 14 Great Grandchildren. Family and friends of Lina are respectfully invited to attend her funeral service which is appointed to move from St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, Mabel Street, Atherton on Friday 24th January, 2025 after a service commencing at 11am for interment in the Atherton Rockley Road Cemetery.

Your daughters Angela, Lorenza, Isabella (Dec.), Pia Margaret and families.

JANE WHEELER

In loving memory of Jane, tragically taken on the Kennedy Highway, Mareeba on 27th January, 2023. Always in our thoughts. Rose and John Wheeler.

A special thank you to the Ozcare team Malanda for their wonderful care of Herb during his last 6 months. He was very much at home and well loved there, and we are very grateful for that.

Allan Beacham (27.01.2016) Rahna Beacham (27.06.2011)

In loving memory of our Dad and Mum.

Thank you to all who have sent flowers, cards and messages, we have drawn a lot of strength from all the love, support and kindness shown to us all.

Please accept this as a personal thanks to you all.

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

Joshua David AKKERMAN

Late of Kuranda. Passed away on the 15th of January, 2025. Aged 43 years.

Much loved Brother, Uncle and Son, who will be fondly remembered.

May he be blessed on his next journey.

1300 781 084

“We keep you both close within our hearts and memories. Walk with us throughout our lives until we meet again. Eternally in our hearts.”

Love Allan, Bronwyn, Robyn (deceased), Sandra, Gail and their families.

CLASSIFIEDS

PositioN VacaNt

Board Director

Wet Tropics Management Authority

Department of Environment, Science and Innovation

Salary: $400 daily fee

Location: Cairns (Flexible)

REF: QLD/615356/25

Key Duties: Board Directors have a range of important roles including:

• overseeing the functions of the Authority as outlined in the Wet Tropics World Heritage Protection and Management Act 1993

• setting the objectives, strategic direction and policies for the Wet Tropics Management Authority and ensuring it performs its functions in a proper, effective, and efficient way

• promoting the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area locally, regionally, nationally, and internationally and involving the community in the management of the Area

• having regard to the tradition of Aboriginal Peoples particularly concerned with land in the Area.

Skills/Abilities: Candidates for appointment must demonstrate that they possess qualifications or extensive experience in a field related to the Wet Tropics Management Authority’s functions and which will benefit the Authority. These include:

• expertise in an area such as tourism and presentation, environmental policy and strategy, land-use planning, science, governance, Indigenous and stakeholder engagement, community advocacy or conservation

• experience in protected area or World Heritage management to help provide long term guidance to the protection, conservation, presentation, and transmission to future generations of the Area.

• superior analytical and communication skills and the ability to provide advice, negotiate and consult with government and the community.

Enquiries: Scott Buchanan 07 4241 0500.

Candidates apply for your job on:

https://smartjobs.qld.gov.au using the reference number above.

Closing Date: Friday, 31st January 2025

RECEPTIONIST / ADMINISTRATION

This is a Front of Office role and focused on the reception of and assistance to clients. This is a full-time position and requires a professional phone manner with sound communication, computer and keyboarding skills. For initial contact please phone our office 07 40922 522 and quote this notice.

Proposed Development

Make a submission from: 23rd January, 2025 to 13th February, 2025

Material Change of Use (Tourist Park)

Where: 3711 Kennedy Highway, Mareeba Qld. 4880

On: 4RP725861

Approval Sought: Development Permit

Application Ref: MCU/24/0021

You may obtain a copy of the application and make a submission to:

Mareeba Shire Council

65 Rankin Street, Mareeba Qld. 4880 info@msc.qld.gov.au 1300 308 461 www.msc.qld.gov.au

SWELL INC.

A.G.M.

Senior Women Enjoying Later Life Friday 31st January, Baptist Church Hall, Cnr Lloyd and Gibson Streets, Atherton - 9.30am. ALL WELCOME!

Do you have diﬃculty reading from your Phone, Tablet, Laptop or Desktop Computer?

Women’s Survivors Group

Fortnightly: Wednesdays

9.00am - 11.00am, CWA Hall, Jack Street, Atherton Group recommencing 29th January, 2025. FREE and welcoming (chats, coffee, craft & connection).

Please call TSAS 4091 4036 For further information

T-MSC2024-36

MSC DRFA 2024 - DIMBULAH ROADS PACKAGE

Mareeba Shire Council invites Tenders from suitably qualified respondents for the restoration of multiple roads throughout the Local Government Area (LGA) that were damaged as a result of Tropical Cyclone Jasper, associated rainfall and flooding, 13-28 December 2023.

Tender documents are available on Council’s online e-procurement system, VendorPanel- https://www. vendorpanel.com.au/PublicTenders.aspx.

The Express has introduced cutting edge technology with the Ad Auris Media Player. You can now listen to each article with a simple click.

4PM FRIDAY Prior to the next week’s publication.

T-MSC2024-33

MSC DRFA 2024 – EASTERN ROADS PACKAGE

Tender documents are available on Council’s online e-procurement system, VendorPanel- https://www. vendorpanel.com.au/PublicTenders.aspx.

All enquiries or clarifications must be via the online forum which will close 3 days prior to closing time.

Council officers are unable to respond to verbal or emailed enquiries.

The closing time for electronic lodgement of Tenders is Thursday, 6 February 2025 at 11:00am.

Regulation 228(7) of the Local Government Regulation 2012 may be applied.

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

Peter Franks

Chief Executive Officer PO Box 154, MAREEBA QLD 4880

T-MSC2024-35

MSC DRFA 2024 - MID-WESTERN ROADS PACKAGE

Tender documents are available on Council’s online e-procurement system, VendorPanel- https://www. vendorpanel.com.au/PublicTenders.aspx.

All enquiries or clarifications must be via the online forum which will close 3 days prior to closing time.

Council officers are unable to respond to verbal or emailed enquiries.

The closing time for electronic lodgement of Tenders is Thursday, 6 February 2025 at 11:00am.

Regulation 228(7) of the Local Government Regulation 2012 may be applied.

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

Peter Franks

Chief Executive Officer PO Box 154, MAREEBA QLD 4880

T-MSC2025-01

TENURE OF PART OF LOT 214 SP297028 MOUNT MOLLOY

Mareeba Shire Council invites Tenders from suitably qualified persons for use and management of part of Lot 214 SP297028 Wetherby Road, Mount Molloy.

Tender documents are available on Council’s online e-procurement system, VendorPanel- https://www. vendorpanel.com.au/PublicTenders.aspx.

All enquiries or clarifications must be via the online forum which will close 7 days prior to closing time. Council officers are unable to respond to verbal or emailed enquiries.

The closing time for electronic lodgement of Tenders is Friday, 14 February 2025 at 11:00am. Regulation 228(7) of the Local Government Regulation 2012 may be applied.

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

Peter Franks

Chief Executive Officer

PO Box 154, MAREEBA QLD 4880

Notice of Praecipe

For the record Anne-Louise Joy Duncanson of Arriga, Queensland, is permanently domiciled on the Land and Soil of Terra Australis.

I am not a voluntary transactor in commerce, and the paramount security interest holder of all estates, property, assets and collateral, both registered and unregistered, and all associated copyright protected trade names.

My lawful reconveyance to the Land and Soil jurisdiction of Terra Australis was recorded with Public Recording Number RPP4463900051003481144605 on Proclamation Date 15 January 2025, and tacit agreement was established by my unrebutted Living Testimony in the Form of an Affidavit. All usufruct subjugation ties have been severed with the occupying corporate government of Australia. The corporate Australian kakistocracy and its affiliates are instructed to immediately cease and desist misaddressing Anne-Louise Joy Duncanson in fraudulent debased Dog-Latin, GLOSSA and to cease and desist infringing upon my estate, property, assets, collateral and copyright protected trade names.

All enquiries or clarifications must be via the online forum which will close 3 days prior to closing time. Council officers are unable to respond to verbal or emailed enquiries.

The closing time for electronic lodgement of Tenders is Thursday, 6 February 2025 at 11:00am. Regulation 228(7) of the Local Government Regulation 2012 may be applied.

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

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

T-MSC2024-34

MSC DRFA 2024 - WESTERN ROADS PACKAGE

Tender documents are available on Council’s online e-procurement system, VendorPanel- https://www. vendorpanel.com.au/PublicTenders.aspx.

All enquiries or clarifications must be via the online forum which will close 3 days prior to closing time. Council officers are unable to respond to verbal or emailed enquiries.

The closing time for electronic lodgement of Tenders is Thursday, 6 February 2025 at 11:00am. Regulation 228(7) of the Local Government Regulation 2012 may be applied.

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

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

The Department of the Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation (the department) is developing a design for the upgrade of Lake Eacham day-use area with proposed changes to the car parks, picnic areas, viewing decks and the waterfront access zone. Works will be undertaken sensitively to protect World Heritage natural and cultural values.

The project is expected to be completed over three years, and staged to ensure some visitor access is maintained.

For more information and to provide feedback please visit www.qld.gov.au/LakeEachamUpgrade

Comments are to be received by 5pm 7 March 2025.

SPORT

Wadley triumphs at national championships

ATHERTON local Breanne Wadley has claimed a national title after days of competition at a recent championship sailing event.

Breanne Wadley has claimed victory at the ILCA 4 Oceania and Australian National Championship, securing the prestigious title after six days of intense competition at the Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron in Brisbane.

Competing against a record-breaking fleet of 96 boats, including international contenders, Wadley displayed exceptional skill and perseverance across 12 demanding races.

The championship presented a wide range of conditions, from light, tactical winds requiring sharp strategy to strong, gusty breezes that tested both stamina and technical ability.

Wadley’s versatility and determination were evident as she excelled in all conditions, achieving multiple first-place finishes throughout the series.

Her recent championship win adds yet

another milestone to her sailing career.

She becomes only the fourth female to win the overall national championship since 2002 and the third Queenslander to achieve this remarkable feat.

Her victory also carries a special personal significance, as she follows in the footsteps of her sister, Kristen, the last female sailor to claim the overall national title.

Wadley’s outstanding achievement solidifies her reputation as one of Australia’s most promising young sailors.

In addition to her sailing prowess, Wadley is set to pursue a Bachelor of Nautical Science at the Australian Maritime College in Launceston, beginning in February.

Her love for the sea is not only reflected in her competitive career but also in her educational pursuits.

Wadley’s next challenge will be the Tasmanian ILCA State Championships, scheduled for Hobart in March.

Breanne Wadley was one of 96 boats competing for the national title.

Breanne Wadley claimed a national title at a recent championship sailing event.

NQ Cowboys coach Todd Payten and local junior Kohen Larkin.

John Cole Toyota General Manager Toni Rawson and star NQ Cowboy player Reuben Cotter.

Billy Gordon at the Skills and Drills Clinic. Local junior players enjoy the skills and drills clinic held in Athrton on Saturday.

Mia Pensini and Sunny Fleming at the Cowboys clinic hosted by the Atherton Roosters.

SPORT

Mareeba fighter takes out main event

SPIRIT Muay Thai’s first fight event of the year was heralded a great success with nearly 250 people gathering to watch the several bouts, including a win in the main event for a Mareeba fighter.

Hundreds of people filled Mareeba’s International Club for an eventful afternoon of muay thai action including fights from Mareeba locals Serji Kravchenko and Bryan Wyborn.

“The event was a great success, we had a great turnout, and I really couldn’t have asked for a better show,” SMT gym owner Rosario Signorino said.

“Our fight of the day was between Renyn Eisel and Mylo Ter Velde, it was not only a great show for the crowd but was also a really good physical performance from both of those boys.”

The first fight featured young local Serji Kravchenko who went up against Sam Sheedy.

Unfortunately, it did not go Kravchenko’s way

with Sheedy winning by TKO (Technical Knockout).

The main event featured local Bryan Wyborn as he went up against Cairns fighter Rob Bryant.

Wyborn found great success, winning by KO in the fourth round.

RESULTS

Fight 1: Sam Sheedy vs Serji Kravchenko -

Winner Sam Sheedy by TKO

Fight 2: Gary Jackson vs Andrew Roussetty -

Winner Andrew Roussetty by TKO

Fight 3: Renyn Eisel vs Mylo Ter Velde -

Winner Renyn Eisel by split decision

Fight 4: Jack Griffin vs Will Brennan -

Winner Will Brennan by TKO

Fight 5: Napo Gibia vs Peter Pannam -

Winner Peter pannam by TKO

Main event: Bryan Wyborn vs Rob Bryant -

Winner Bryan Wyborn by KO in Round 4

Mareeba climb ladder

THE Mareeba Bandits claimed their fourth win of the season over the weekend in a game that went down to the final two overs, moving them one spot up the ladder.

Mareeba chased down the Cyclones’ defendable score of 134 runs in nail-biting fashion after an impressive run chase from vice-captain Ben Jones who neared a half-century to win them the game.

Played at Borzi Park Mareeba on Saturday, Mareeba won the toss and elected to bowl first.

Mareeba showed good skill with their bowlers, taking steady wickets all game and keeping the rival batsmen to low scores with the highest score being 22 runs.

Mareeba bowlers Angus Campman and Nadeem Chohan were effective in their wickettaking duties, both taking three each from seven overs.

Jones and Will Hanlon were also notably dangerous with ball-in-hand, each taking two wickets in their four overs with Jones averaging just one run per over.

The Bandits bowled the Cyclones out for 134 runs after 39.5 overs.

Opening the batting for Mareeba was captain Brendan Falvo and Tristan Curmi, who brought their score to 21 runs before Falvo was caught by the bowler.

Following the dismissal of Curmi at 2/41, Jones took to the field to begin his stint.

Further help down the order from Brendan Payne (24 from 57) and Grant Hanlon (20 from 29) significantly boosted Mareeba’s efforts in the chase.

But it was a mighty effort from Jones, who finished on 45-not-out from 71 balls, that led to the home side’s victory.

Mareeba finished 6/135 from 37.5 overs.

Mareeba now move to fifth position in the seven-team competition, while Atherton still holds third spot firmly.

This week, Mareeba will take on first place Norths at Borzi Park and Atherton will face Mulgrave at Minniecon Gregory Oval, Edmonton.