The Express Newspaper 29 January 2025

EXPRESS The

Delivering news across our region WEDNESDAY 11 SEPTEMBER, WEDNESDAY 29 JANUARY, 2024 2025

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MINE CRITICAL TO GLOBAL SECURITY AUSTRALIA Day is always a popular time to become a new Australian citizen, and so it was for Wadsana Wongsuwan from Thailand who took the oath alongside six others at Tablelands Regional Council’s citizenship ceremony on Sunday. Mareeba Shire welcomed nine new citizens at its ceremony.

Australia Day Awards – Pages 6-7 Australia Day fun – Page 11

AUSSIE WELCOME

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

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Counterfeit cash found in Mareeba

Distillery vies for big award

By KONNOR FURBER

NEXT toare names of countries POLICE advising local like Barbados, Thailand and Venezuela, the litbusinesses to be vigilant when tle localcash town of Walkamin accepting payments after a sounds a bit out ofbanknote place, and counterfeit wasrightly given toso.

But our very own FNQ Rum from Tablelands to Tabletop.

Mt Distillery hasafter been shortTheUncle note was identified listed owner alongside disbusiness Angelaother Nasonrenowned was conducting her regular at for Rum tilleries from thosedeposits countries herProducer bank last of week. the Year at the prestigious The incident was immediately A counterfeit $50 note was given to local produce business International Wine and Spirit CompeTablelands to Tabletop. reported to Australian Federal tition (IWSC).

Police.

The IWSC is renowned for its rig“Things like this can really orous judging process, which cash evalupayments to be vigilant,” possible, note a description of the affect a small business, ates spirits based $50 on might taste, balance, offender or obtain a copy of any they said. befithe “Any reasonable examination CCTV footage of the offender, nish,profit and margin value. some of us make some days and to have that of a note will identify that it is and contact police,” they said.

“This competition is also known made nil is a bit discouraging and fake. This can include the quality Following the incident, Ms as the ‘Oscars of the Spirits industry’ almost a waste of a days’ work,” or texture of the note’s material or Nason took to social media to or it’s like the Olympics in a way, the Ms Nason said.

Rum Producer Police Trophy is one the of feel the of the note, paper verse warn the Tablelands community.

A Queensland Service “My bank said they were plastic. most sought-after accolades,” Mt Unspokesperson said counterfeit alerted that there were fake notes “A counterfeit note printed on cle’s head$50 distiller Watkins said.

Australian notes Mark are more paperby will not have a clear window circulating out of Townsville,” she “Being recognised on this level commonly used and have and other security measures such replied to a comment. the IWSC is incredibly for been presented to policerewarding in as the “My junior staff wouldn’t have Coat of Arms will not be our team. recent months, although other visible when held to the light. noticed, it’s not something we “We strivearetoalso craftcopied rums that “If re-a staff member receives considered to be ever given but denominations flecttime theto unique from time. terroir of Far aNorth counterfeit note, please ensure now we know what to look out “Police encourage staffnomination at any thereafQueensland, and this note is handled as little as for. business premises that are accepts firms that our efforts resonating on

“I had it in my banking from last week’s cash takings and I myself didn’t really notice.

“The bank felt it right away and scrubbed it, the print came off as shown in the picture.

“We don’t know which customer used it or what day, they probably had no idea either,” she concluded.

Community members commenting on the post also raised the issue that businesses are unable to be reimbursed for any fraudulent money they unknowingly receive.

According to the Reserve Bank of Australia’s website, this is because counterfeit money has no value so it therefore cannot be reimbursed with legitimate currency.

It also noted that businesses are well within their rights to refuse to accept a banknote if they have any concerns about it.

For further information on how to detect counterfeit banknotes visit https://banknotes.rba.gov.au/ counterfeit-detection/

the world stage.”

Mt Uncle Distillery Owner and Head Distiller Mark Watkins with FNQ Rum’s awardFNQ Rum is the only Australian winning Iridium X rum. brand shortlisted for the Rum Producer Trophy, “standing proudly” along- locally and internationally for their dis- a stellar year for FNQ Rum, during has already tinct flavoursafter and the exceptional quality”. forwhich global giants such as Foursquare will notsecured reproducemultiple there. with barramundi moreitthan recruit more members Byside KONNOR FURBER awards.

At the World Awards use unable sugar to cane30nectar Rum USA from Barbados, Sang Som Barra “We years to andprorelies on volunteers Tinaroo Bash was “AussiesRum love their fishing, and earlier FNQ Rum took home place ducedue a more rich and sweet flavour and from Thailand, and Ron Ro-last year to continue restocking the this dam,year,Lake be run to insufficient Tinaroo is a favourite A Distillery FISHING competition with cash two gold medals its anglers Platinum Canea barra,” then we age spirit inmaintaining ex-Australian ble Viejo Venezuela. the barrier fish net, organise the the event. forfor many to catch and prizes up from for grabs will be held volunteers to Spirit fishing and Iridium Agave Cask Finred wine barrels, so it combines thesethe annual “This nomination cements FNQ and organising “The Tinaroo Barra Bash has she said. by the Tableland Fish Stocking ish, alongside being named for World’s niceanticipated flavours well,” said.

Rum’s in position as a leading competition. been in a highly fishingMark Society Yungaburra next force Nominations the membersBestareSugarcane Spirit.

Additionally, situated in a“Membership really nice fees the global rum new industry and isevent a tes-in Far “And $5 a only North we’re Queensland weekend to attract members fishing competition close to quality wasfees for theMember fluctuations in temperature so the price of a the cup brand’s of coffee.commitment for over 40area, years,” for year, years Tinaroo of hardBarra work, dedicato tament keep thetoannual Friday, with members’ highlighted a silver with hot days nights After you helps becomefurther a member, Barron River Breethe James said. and cold tion, and innovation,” Mark said.

Bash alive. new with members ablemedal to be paid at theforInternational Wine Spirit form. the spirit age injected really well.” then you can nominate the along with at its peak FNQ describes its rums“This as event The eventRum is a members-only, the and nomination Competition for itsRegistration Iridium Xfor Rum. The into Mt Uncle has also competition,” Doug said. millions of dollars the localDistillery beingandcrafted “from the rich volcanic catch release competition, the competition Mark will travelling London recently started distribution“There in theare UK, no qualifications or be anglers travelling and the group is hoping this soils and sugarcane ofwill this economy unique with will be at the to Cairns and District training required to be member. all over Australia to be many at the successes. to aattend the awards on 12 adding to their encourage fishers wish afrom tropical avid region” andwho “produces range Power ceremony Boat and Ski Club, 15 Most members their Tinaburra Road, Yungaburra from event.”

November.

This IWSC recognition follows volunteer to of take partthat to consider becoming rums have been celebrated both

Fishing comp aims to boost member numbers

a member.

The group are looking to

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Secretary Tableland Fish time to help restock the dam 4pm next Friday and will close 12Stocking Society Doug Luscombe when we release fingerlings noon Saturday. said it was important to gain more progressively throughout the year, Competition will start 6pm members to continue to run the which only takes about a couple of Friday and end 9am Sunday, with great fishing competition that hours every two months.” a presentation and prize ceremony Last year, the group released supports local businesses and the for 12 which noon ataim the Boat and Ski penalties for existing set offences to deter NEW offences and increased fines have been brought a total of 58,000 barramundi broader community.

Club where a barbecue lunch people from engaging in behaviours that pose a se- will in by the State Government to crack down on feeding “With a lack of members, fingerlings and 40,000 sooty be available. rious riskthetodam. public safety and animal conservation. and interfering crocodiles.a sort grunter fingerlings into we’ve been with experiencing must have on-the-spot deliberately disturbing or a new offences have and been introduced making “The work the The Tableland Fish fine forParticipants ofTwovolunteer fatigue, the Government Stocked feeding increased from $483 to $2580, it unlawful to unintentionally a crocodile by disStocking Society do iscrocodiles vital forhas Queensland Barra Bash is an importantfeed event withTinaroo,” the maximum ne increasing carding and remaining in close proximity to a Lake Impoundment fiPermit (SIPSs) to dams like Ms court-imposed for usfood to raise funds to continue crocodile. from $6452 to $26,615.enter the competition, these can James said. restocking the dam,” he said.

Discarding food,Fisheries includingprovide fish frames, scraps and year The for interfering withvia a crocoonline stocked.

“Every theyon-the-spot release finepurchased “Queensland bait, in a way maywe’re attractable crocodiles to a publicintodile from $645 to $2580, with or at the trap damhas to increased help impoundment-permits/buy funding to that us so to fingerlings place such as or campingfreshwater the maximum court-imposed fine increasing any Australia Post store.from fish species restock thea boat dam,ramp, but jetty, it’s pontoon not threatened area can now resultso in we an on-the-spot of $483 or $19,356 to $26,615.

To become a member and always enough, really rely finerecover. a maximum court-imposed fi ne of $6,452.

State Member for Hill Shane Knuth, whovisit for the event, “Impounded But waters such nominate on the Barra Bash as a fundraiser.”

Knowingly remaining within a introduced the KAP’s www.tinaroobarrabash.com.au/ Crocodile Control, Conservaas damstoneed to be continually The not-for-profit group close has proximity crocodile that is on, orLake partly Tinaroo on, land canrestocked now result tion,stocked and Safety Bill 2024 into Parliament last month, as many species been restocking fish-stocking/nominate/ in an on-the-spot fine of $806 or a maximum court- slammed the new offences and fines as “nothing imposed fine of $16,130. more than a band-aid fix”.

This offence complements the existing “disturb“The State Government has failed to manage the ing” offence which prevents people from approach- crocodile crisis for over a decade, and now it’s coming or pursuing a crocodile or driving a boat or vehi- pletely out of control,” he said.

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

Conservation officers now also have the power to terways - they’ll tell you the crocodile population has direct people to move away from a crocodile to avoid exploded. “This is a Northern Queensland issue, and it should be managed locally, not from over 1,800 km any potential human-crocodile interactions.

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

Crackdown on feeding crocs

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Parkland must stay

Supreme Court judge labels developer’s actions ‘deceitful’

By ROBYN HOLMES THE actions of a Tablelands developer who attempted to sell-off land designated as parkland in a new subdivision at Yungaburra have been labelled deceitful by a Supreme Court Judge, who sent a clear message to developers that such behaviour would not be tolerated.

The case against Cairns Plywoods Pty Ltd was brought by Yungaburra residents Stephen Ducksbury, Keran Thomas, Eddie Hayes (now deceased) and Colleen Young in 2021 after they discovered that the area designated as parkland behind their Newland Street homes would be sold off for more housing.

After three years, the residents are celebrating after Justice James Henry found that Cairns Plywoods had attempted to sell off the parkland behind the Newland Street properties despite marketing the lots as backing onto and overlooking the green space.

In a rare move, Justice Henry put an injunction on the developer from using the land for any other purpose than parkland and also ordered that it could not transfer or dispose of its interest in the land other than to Tablelands Regional Council for parkland.

In his decision, Justice Henry described the developer’s actions as

The parkland behind the Newland Street homes has been saved.

“misleading, deceptive and deceitful conduct”.

The Judge found that the developer had not revealed its true intentions to potential buyers when marketing the Newland St blocks but had, instead, made false representations to those buyers.

“To make matters worse, even after the purchases occurred, the developer still did not reveal its actual plans,” he wrote.

“It sat back quietly while some duped buyers incurred the additional expense of building houses specifically designed to facilitate a view over the parkland which the developer planned to transform into a

view over more house lots.”

The Judge stated the developer had been “knowingly false” in its representations about the parkland remaining as such.

“The developer knew, but did not want prospective purchasers to know, that it was planning to turn parkland aspect into residential development,” his decision states.

“It did not want them to know because they would not pay as much (for their blocks) and it would not profit as much.

“The buyers ended up stuck with ownership of property they would not have bought but for the developer’s contraventions of the law.”

Justice Henry also found that Tablelands Regional Council had some role in how the matter came about.

“The local council, to which the parkland was supposed to revert to under the development’s approval, made the odd decision it did not want the parkland and preferred for the developer to own and develop it into more residential blocks,” his decision states.

“The developer jumped at this unheralded future opportunity to make more money but could not resist the temptation to make more money out of the existing blocks too.”

According to evidence

given at the six-day trial by Cairns Plywoods director Dean Rankine, when he delivered a works application to council in May 2018, an officer asked whether he wanted to use the parkland for development.

“The explanation for this query was that council supposedly did not want any parkland because it already had too much,” Justice Henry’s decision states.

“It was not apparent whether that was the actual reason for the curious view that council should forfeit such future public space for the growing village of Yungaburra.”

In bringing down his decision, the Judge also ordered costs be awarded to the plaintiffs.

Last week, the Newland St residents said they were “delighted that after a long and costly struggle to regain what we paid for when purchasing our blocks, we have achieved a successful outcome”.

They said they were also pleased that in an area of increasing urban development, they had been able to secure more open space for Yungaburra.

The residents say they are currently in discussions with TRC councillors to explore ways in which council may be able to dedicate the land as park for the benefit of all of the town.

Crime blitz nabs 14

FOURTEEN young people have been charged with 39 offences by detectives from the Tablelands Criminal Investigation Branch following a property crime operation which ended on 17 January.

On 13 January, a 15-year-old Mareeba boy was charged following the alleged theft of a Mazda BT-50 from a Kowa Street address on 7 January. It is further alleged the boy was involved in various property offences dating back to August 2024.

He was charged with six counts of breach of bail, two counts of enter premises and commit indictable offence, and one count each of enter premises and commit indictable offence, unlawful use of a motor vehicle, wilful damage, and driving of a motor vehicle without a driver licence, obstruct police officer and possess by night instrument of house breaking.

A 16-year-old Mareeba girl was arrested on 12 January in relation to multiple offences, including the alleged theft of a Mitsubishi Pajero on 28 December.

Another 16-year-old Mareeba girl was arrested on 17 January in relation to multiple offences. It is alleged she gained entry to a parked vehicle at a Doyle Street venue by smashing a window, before stealing items from inside.

She was charged with five counts of breach of bail and one count of enter premises and commit indictable offence.

A further 11 young people were issued Notices to Appear or were dealt with under the Youth Justice Act in relation to 19 other property and traffic offences.

Detective Acting Sergeant Derek Hicks from the Tablelands Criminal Investigation Branch said as a result of the operation, 53 matters were investigated and finalised.

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The Express, Wednesday January 29 2025 PAGE 3

Medal for officer DETECTIVE Senior Sergeant Brett Devine has been awarded an Australian Policing Medal in recognition of nearly four decades of service.

The police officer, who was sworn into the force in 1987, has served all his career as an operational police officer in Far North Queensland, serving initially as a general duties officer then the remainder of his career as an investigator in criminal investigation branches including as an officer in charge.

He has been the officer-in-charge of Mareeba Crime Investigations Branch since 2006.

Detective Senior Sergeant Devine commenced his service with the in September 1986 and was sworn in as a police officer on in April 1987. He has extensive policing experience throughout communities in the Far North, including Aurukun.

He commenced as an investigator in the Cairns Drug Squad in 1993 and achieved his detective’s appointment in 1998 whilst he was performing duties in the Cairns Criminal Investigations Branch.

Detective Senior Sergeant Devine transferred to Thursday Island in the Torres Strait where he enhanced his investigative career and become well regarded across several state and federal government agencies for his practical approach to policing and his extraordinary ability to achieve shared outcomes in a dynamic operating environment.

Young local Charlie (left) enjoyed visiting Ms Mary’s old-fashioned schoolroom at the Mareeba Heritage Centre’s Heritage Hunt, while Bella, Darcy and Vanna (right) were thrilled with the gems they received from Sandrine after they completed the treasure hunt.

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restaurant to host bingo and poker nights.

Council was told the evenings would be contained inside the venue, and no amplified noise was to accompany the events. Only restaurant dining would be permitted outdoors.

The original MCU drew 13 submissions concerned about the amenity of neighbouring properties and the increased safety risks associated with the additional traffic entering and exiting via the busy Kennedy Highway at night.

Conditions for the MCU included no parking on the Kennedy Highway road reserve; the onsite car park to be extended if capacity could not be met; and the highway entrance to the venue widened for easier entry and exit.

High fencing and vegetation buffers were also to be installed to ease noise, headlight intrusion into neighbouring

properties, and dust drift.

The Department of Main Roads and Transport had assessed the application and traffic conditions and had “no issue” with the change of use.

In notes for council, a report said the latest approval for the popular ice creamery, which has been operating since 2009, would value-add to the business model and respond to an increase in demand for evening trade.

The approval also scaled back to just Friday and Saturday nights. Recent upgrades to the Kennedy Highway frontage have ensured the site can be accessed safely and efficiently. The development can be conditioned to ensure the rural character and amenity of the area is not compromised by the changes.

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THE Emerald Creek Ice Creamery on Kennedy Highway has been approved to extend its restaurant hours to 10pm on Friday and Saturday nights to complement its new club status.

At a Mareeba Shire Council meeting last Wednesday, councillors unanimously approved the plan, with the provision that it would not operate until all club status conditions were met.

In September last year, the MSC approved a Material Change of Use application to allow the business to operate as a club until 11pm on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights.

This latest change scaled back night operations to just Friday and Saturday nights with club events until 11pm and dining till 10pm.

The club status was requested by the owners of the popular ice creamery and

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New group aims to be a voice for community

By ROBYN HOLMES A NEW group is being formed to give residents in the Mareeba Shire a stronger voice on important issues such as escalating crime and local government matters.

The Mareeba Ratepayers and Residents Association is asking people in the shire to come forward and join the group so it can represent the community and advocate on their behalf.

Group spokesman and former councillor Bob Neate claims that locals are currently experiencing signs of organised crime involving break and enters, theft, damage and even instances of physical attacks.

He says people have reported numerous instances where adults are “casing” houses and bending back or removing security screens during the daylight hours to be followed up by groups of younger people and children returning at night to commit crime.

“The fact is that despite public posturing and lame excuses from our community leaders, including police and supposed assistance groups, CCTV images posted on social media clearly show and confirm that the activity is now generally targeted and organised, with adults accompanying many of the youth criminals during their nocturnal activities,” he said.

“The real truth is that most of the elderly and law-abiding residents and business operators in the CBD and residential and rural areas of the shire simply do not feel safe.

“As a former councillor, I believe that surely, as elected people and public servants, Mareeba Shire Council and the Tablelands Patrol Group have a duty of care to protect their constituents and residents, not just organise ‘go nowhere’ talk fests that have achieved absolutely nothing but escalating crime for the past two or more years.”

In December last year, more than 100 people

gathered at a local hall to vent their frustration about what they were experiencing, especially pensioners whose homes are being targeted by young criminals.

In December 2021, around 700 people gathered at a crime rally in Davies Park to demand that authorities take action, outlining eight actions which were sent to 14 Federal, State and Local Government representatives.

The Express reported in December that crime in Mareeba had increased by 15% last year compared to the previous 12 months, with 1783 offences reported.

Statistics from the Queensland Police online crime map showed that 87 vehicles were stolen in Mareeba, compared to 45 in 2023, while unlawful entry into homes or businesses was up 31%, with 311 recorded.

Long-term resident and business leader Barry Simpson said various excuses had been given by authorities for the inaction on crime after the 2021 rally.

“The fact that no crime reduction has followed is an indictment on the part of the recipients who were sent the eight crime actions, not the organiser of the well-attended meeting as implied,” he said.

He said there was hope things would change when the new Crisafulli Government came into power late last year, immediately making changes to the Youth Justice Act but he believes more has to be done to stop young criminals from being bailed and allowed to go back onto the street to commit more crimes.

The new group is aiming to also keep a keen eye on council issues so it can be a voice for the greater community.

Anyone interested in joining the new association should email to dj_mckinley@yahoo.com.au or mail their expression of interest to Mareeba Ratepayers and Residents Association, PO Box 1476 Mareeba 4880.

Locals have a say in lake reform ONE of the most popular swimming attractions on the Tablelands will undergo a major makeover under a state government plan to enhance safety and overall park experience.

A draft design for Lake Eacham has been developed by the Department of the Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation, which is calling for feedback and ideas from locals through an online survey.

The current design maximises universal accessibility, maintains the existing footprint, and upgrades time-worn facilities while respecting the historical importance of the lake, according to the department.

“Our focus is on creating suitable infrastructure,

such as paths for improved access to the water and extensive facilities, catering to the diverse needs of our visitors,” deputy director-general of Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service and Partnerships, Ben Klaassen, said.

“Prioritising the protection of the unique cultural and natural values has been considered in the design.

“We eagerly anticipate the community’s feedback to ensure our plans align with the desires and requirements of those who cherish Lake Eacham.”

The survey is open now until 7 March 2025, to participate visit: www.parks.desi.qld.gov.au/ parks/crater-lakes/about/lake-eacham-day-use-areaupgrade

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The Express, Wednesday January 29 2025 PAGE 5

AUSTRALIA DAY awards 2025

A true community champion A COMMUNITY champion has been named the 2025 Tablelands Regional Council Citizen of the Year at a ceremony on Sunday.

Alf Hogan has been an invaluable contributor to the Atherton Tablelands community for many years, giving his time to several clubs.

As a key organiser and behind-the-scenes leader, Alf initiated the fish stocking in Tinaroo, founded the Tinaroo Barra Bash, and helped establish the Little Athletics track at Tolga.

He is also an active member of the Yungaburra Bowls Club and a founding member of U3A Atherton Tablelands, where he serves as the Webmaster.

The Young Citizen of the Year title went to Flynn Hyde, a dedicated and compassionate young leader who has made significant contributions to his community through service, leadership and advocacy.

As School Captain, member of the Tablelands Youth Council, and key organiser for events, Flynn has been a passionate advocate and fundraiser for the Missy’s Donors and This Strong Mum foundations since 2013.

Flynn’s community service includes roles as Ambassador for FNQ Motorsport junior drivers’ development, cyberbullying TikTok account administrator, and mentor for the Malanda State High School running club.

He was also recognised as the Lions Youth of the Year Regional Community Service Winner in 2024.

Community Event of the Year went to Tableland Roller Derby League which hosts monthly Roller Discos at the Atherton State High School Hall, providing a safe and drugand-alcohol free environment for families and young people.

In 2024 the league contributed to the Women’s Centre FNQ, participated in the Atherton Maize Festival, and supported local charity drives.

Alf Hogan was named TRC Citizen of the Year for his decades of service to the community.

For his commitment to the Atherton Chinese Temple for the past 20 years, Graham Wardle picked up the Community Service Award.

As well as his work with the temple, Graham served on the Tableland Community Housing Management Committee for 10 years and has been a board member for Better Together Community Support.

The Inclusion Award went to the Ravenshoe Men’s Shed which assists with various community needs, such as carpentry, restoring antique furniture and helping those in need, including elderly residents requiring home maintenance.

The men’s shed members also design model aeroplanes for special needs children at a local school.

For their commitment to the sport of sailing for decades, Roger and Annette Wadley were awarded the Sports Supporter title. The couple has been the backbone of the Tinaroo Sailing Club for seven years and have made invaluable

contributions to the club for over 15 years.

Roger is the club’s Commodore and president, while Annette oversees operations and is the race official. Together they have played a crucial role in organising the annual events.

The Junior Sports award was shared by Kobi Johnston and Samika Sheahan. Kobi is an enthusiastic cricketer who last year captained multiple teams including the Queensland Country U19s and achieved notable successes including in the Cricket Far North T20 Division A and First Grade Premierships. He was also named U18 Representative Player of the Year.

Samika is a talented and versatile equestrian who has achieved outstanding success across multiple disciplines. In 2024, she earned top honours at the Pony Club Queensland (PCQ) State Championships, including first in Formal Gymkhana and Campdrafting, and was selected for the PCQ State Campdrafting Team This year’s Cultural Award went to Kylie Akers who has dedicated over 31 years to enriching the cultural life of the Atherton Tablelands through tireless volunteer work.

As a longstanding member of the Atherton Debutante Ball Committee, she has taught countless debutantes to dance and often donated the event’s cake.

Kylie has also volunteered for over a decade teaching Year 12 students at Mount St Bernard College to dance, played the organ at St Joseph’s Parish, and marches annually with the Atherton Pipe Band on Anzac Day and at other community events The local State Emergency Services Awards were also announced on Sunday. The recipients were Phillip Mansbridge, Sandra Singleton, David McConnell, Cath Kent and Kylie Lang from the Atherton SES, and Colleen James from the Malanda SES.

2025 AWARD WINNERS Citizen of the Year – Alf Hogan Young Citizen of the Year – Flynn Hyde Community Event of the Year – Tableland Roller Derby League Community Service Award – Graham Wardle Inclusion Award – Ravenshoe Men’s Shed Sports Supporter Award – Roger and Annette Wadley Junior Sports Award – Kobi Johnston and Samika Sheahan (joint recipients) Cultural Award – Kylie Akers

Community event of the Year was Tableland Roller Derby League (from left) Koharu Arai, Jennifer Cox, Katrin Schreiber, and Inge Arnold.

The Sports Supporter Award went to Roger and Annette Wadley.

The Inclusion Award went to Ravenshoe Men’s Shed president Graham Rae.

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AUSTRALIA DAY awards 2025

Award winners an inspiration for shire

INSPIRED to support her father, who was a World War II veteran, Cheryl Emmerson’s “tremendous contribution” to the Mareeba RSL and the wider community has earned her the title of 2025 Citizen of the Year for the Mareeba Shire.

Cheryl was one of many citizens who were recognised for their contributions at the Australia Day Awards on Sunday.

Cheryl has been secretary to the Mareeba RSL for the past five years, coordinating community activities and memorial events including Anzac Day, Vietnam Veteran’s Day and Remembrance Day. She also worked tirelessly to find a new Walsh Street home for the Mareeba RSL when it closed.

Cheryl’s extensive volunteer work also includes with the Mareeba Leagues Club, Mareeba Turf Club, the Mareeba Junior Motorcycle Club and the Mitchell River Watershed Management Group.

Rising through the ranks of sporting, academic and community service achievement in spectacular fashion is Steven Young, who was named Junior Young Citizen of the Year.

Last year’s school captain at Mareeba State High School, Steven was awarded the JCU Rising Star Award, the Ampol All Rounder Award, Amaroo Public Speaking Award, Subject Awards for Physics and Sport and Recreation, an Overall Academic Award, and a School Service and Cultural Award.

Sport was also front and centre

for two remarkable recipients at this year’s awards, with Alana Mehes receiving the Sportsperson of the Year award and Ally MacLeod the Junior Sportsperson of the Year award.

For underwater hockey champion Alana, watching the 2016 Olympics at 10 years old was when she decided she would like to represent Australia and win gold.

And she did.

Alana first represented Queensland in the Under 19s underwater hockey team and, last year, she was vice-captain of the Australian Under 19s team which won gold at the world championships in Malaysia.

Junior award winner Ally has competed on a state level for high jump and swimming. She was the age champion at Mareeba State High School for swimming, cross country and athletics, and plays for the Mareeba United Football Club in the Ladies Premiers team and Under 23 team.

Highly respected geologist John Nethery was one of two recipients for the Community Service Award.

For the past 30 years, John has been an integral part of the Chillagoe community, creating the Chillagoe Hub Geological Time 20 years ago, and as a member and current president of the Chillagoe Alliance since its inception in the 1990s.

Kay Harrold, the second recipient, is also well-known for her unwavering support for the Mareeba Cancer Council as a volunteer for North Queensland’s Leading Automotive & Industrial Cooling System Specialist.

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Also highly commended for their community service were Ellen Duff, who volunteers at the Mareeba Heritage Centre, and volunteer fire warden for the Speewah Rural Fire Brigade, Mick Dubb.

The Irvinebank School of Arts and Progress Association picked up the Arts and Cultural Award for its role in preserving and showcasing the heritage and culture of the small town.

The Junior Arts and Cultural Award was shared by Elenoa Patolo and Evangeleah McKay. Elenoa performs with the Pasifika Pride Dance group, and has participated in Deadly Choices, the ARTIE Academy, school variety shows, NAIDOC community events, Mulungu Deadly Dancers Camp, Mulungu Girls Leadership Camp, and the Mareeba Connected Beginnings Youth Yarning Circle.

Evangeleah is an accomplished dancer and performer who is a member of the Pasifika Pride dance group and has participated in the Mareeba Multicultural Festival and NAIDOC community events.

The Community Organisation of the Year award went to the Lions Club of Mareeba which assists other groups with their activities as well as their own events, including the Coles car park fortnightly sausage sizzle and Family Fun Metrogaine.

Last year, it took on the management of the Mareeba Markets after they closed in May.

Mayor Angela Toppin cuts the Australia Day cake with Junior Citizen of the Year Steven Young and Citizen of the Year Cheryl Emmerson.

2025 AWARD WINNERS Citizen of the Year – Cheryl Emmerson Junior Young Citizen of the Year – Steven Young Junior Sportsperson of the Year – Ally MacLeod Sportsperson of the Year – Alana Mehes

Junior Arts and Cultural Awards – Elenoa Patolo and Evangeleah McKay Community Organisation of the Year – Lions Club of Mareeba

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The Express, Wednesday January 29 2025 PAGE 7

Our Council Our Community Traineeships & Apprenticeship

Program & Project Update

Council Meetings

We are offering nine traineeships and one apprenticeship to mature-aged job seekers (45+ years), Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, young people, migrants and refugees from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, people with a disability, displaced workers, women re-entering the workforce and veterans / ex-Australian Defence Force members and their families.

We’ll be working on these projects and programs in February (weather and resources permitting): • Slashing in Evelyn, Maalan, Millaa Millaa, Millstream, Mount Garnet, Tarzali, Tolga and Walkamin.

• Boom slashing in Millstream and Ravenshoe.

• Grading in Beatrice and Walkamin.

• Priors Creek Parklands in Atherton.

• Design and construction of a water treatment plant in Ravenshoe.

• New reservoir in Malanda.

• New water intake pontoon and associated infrastructure in Yungaburra.

• Restoration of roads damaged by monsoons and flooding.

• Replacement of picnic shelter at Malanda Falls.

• Replacement of Wondecla Creek bridge on Webster Road, Wondecla.

• Replacement of Station Creek bridge on Kaban Road, Kaban.

• Gravel resheet program across the region.

• Bitumen reseal program across the region.

• Solar panel installation on TRC buildings.

Follow these and other projects and programs at trc.qld.gov.au/projects.

The next ordinary Council meetings will be at 9am Thursday 27 February and Thursday 27 March in the Coordination Centre, 15 Vernon Street, Atherton.

The meetings are open to the public, and will be live streamed and recorded. See our socials and trc.qld.gov.au/meetings for agendas, minutes, recordings and live stream links.

Traineeships • Logistic Operations (12 months) • Systems Support (12 months) • Legal and Governance (12 months) • Libraries and Galleries (12 months) • Community Development (12 months) • Customer Relations (12 months) • Regulatory Services (12 months) • People and Culture (12 months) • Land Protection and Nursery (24 months).

The three-year apprenticeship is with our Parks and Gardens Team.

Find out more at our Trainee and Apprentice Information Session at 3.30–4.30pm Wednesday 19 February at the Coordination Centre, 15 Vernon Street, Atherton.

Apply for the positions from 9am Wednesday 19 February until 5pm Wednesday 2 March at trc.qld.gov.au/careers.

This training is proudly funded by the Queensland Government through its Skilling Queenslanders for Work initiative.

Join Our Team Visit trc.qld.gov.au/careers to see our current vacancies, apply online and subscribe to have our Careers @ TRC e-newsletter delivered to your inbox.

Travelling Exhibition Our exhibition program starts the year with an innovative touring exhibition — Carbon_Dating.

Six teams of scientists, artists, growers and First Nations experts worked together to cultivate native grasses and engage with an interactive artwork called the Interweaver.

Our galleries are free and you can see this exhibition at the Tableland Regional Gallery until Saturday 22 February.

This project is supported by the Queensland Government through Arts Queensland. Assisted by QUT School of Creative Practice, International Art Services (IAS), Native Seeds Pty Ltd, Artfully and Embodied Media.

Join the

Conversation We are seeking expressions of interest (EOIs) from people interested in the future hangar development at the Atherton Aerodrome.

EOIs are open until 9am Monday 10 February and the subsequent engagement will inform the development of the Atherton Aerodrome Development Project Management Plan.

Congratulations!

Citizen of the Year — Alf Hogan Young Citizen of the Year — Flynn Hyde Community Event of the Year — Tableland Roller Derby League Community Service — Graham Wardle Inclusion — Ravenshoe Men’s Shed Sports Supporter — Roger and Annette Wadley Junior Sports — Kobi Johnston and Samika Sheahan (joint recipients) Cultural — Kylie Akers

TABLELAND REGIONAL GALLERY Carbon_Dating

By artists working with scientists, growers and First Nations advisors On display until Saturday 22 February

FOYER GALLERY Local People: The Second Series

By Songriver Photography Group On display until Friday 28 March

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Closed Saturday 1 February to Monday 10 March

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

PAGE 8 The Express, Wednesday January 29 2025

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The Express, Wednesday January 29 2025 PAGE 9

ENTERTAINMENT

Touring exhibition now on show TABLELAND Regional Gallery’s exhibition program starts the year with an innovative touring exhibition and workshop exploring Australia’s native grasses through art-based experiments.

“We’re really pleased to host the Carbon Dating exhibition and are honoured Arts Queensland has chosen our region to experience it,” Mayor Rod Marti said.

“Six teams of scientists, artists, growers and First Nations experts worked together to cultivate native grasses and engage with an interactive artwork called the Interweaver.

“The exhibition showcases a variety of artworks inspired by these experiences including sculpture, weaving, installation, textiles, photography and more.

“It reflects on the diverse stories and learnings from the project, aiming to foster a deeper ecological appreciation for grasslands.”

The exhibition is free and can be viewed at the Tableland Regional Gallery until 22 February.

To complement the exhibition, the gallery is hosting a weaving workshop with Cairns-based

Kuku Yalanji master weaver Delissa Walker Ngadijina.

The workshop will focus on sharing fibre skills and simple weaving techniques, and Delissa will discuss her artwork in the Carbon Dating exhibition.

Places are limited so book (tablelandsregionalcouncil.eventbrite.com) the $10 ticket for the workshop being held 10am-12 noon this Saturday at the Tableland Regional Gallery.

The Carbon Dating exhibiting artists are Keith Armstrong, Liz Capelin, Daniele Constance, Hilary Coulter, Merinda Davies, Donna Davis, Mia Hacker, Andrea Higgins, Luke Lickfold, Jason Murphy (Jinibara), Kilagi Nielsen, Sasha Parlett (Maylangapa, Barkindji), Melissa Stannard (Yuwaalaraay, Gamilaraay, Koama), Delissa Walker Ngadijina (Kuku Yalanji) and Pipier Weller.

The exhibition’s curators are Jo-Anne Driessens (Guwa-Koa, Kuku Yalanji) and Beth Jackson.

New market for treasure hunters VINTAGE, collectable and pre-loved items will be sold this weekend at the inaugural Herberton Trash, Treasure and Collectables Fair to raise funds for the town’s annual Jacaranda Festival held later in the year.

Organised by the Herberton Business and Tourism Association, the undercover market described as “the biggest garage sale under one roof” will feature a range of stall holders selling household goods, toys, games, books, pre-loved clothing, plants, vintage and collectable art, and antiques.

The fair will be held at Herberton Hall this Saturday from 8am-1pm, and if the event

is successful, organisers will be looking to continue holding the event on the first Saturday of every second month.

Proceeds from stall fees will go directly towards funding the Jacaranda Festival and profits made from stall holders will be theirs to keep.

The Herberton Magpies Junior Rugby League Club will be holding a sausage sizzle at the event and there will also be cold drinks available.

For more information, find Herberton Trash, Treasure and Collectables Fair on Facebook.

The United Tableland Pipe Band has performed at major community events.

First free concert of year THE first free concert of the year at the Yungaburra Rotunda will take place early next month.

The Sunday in the Park concert, hosted by the Yungaburra Community Rotunda, will feature one of the region’s well-known groups, the United Tableland Pipe Band.

This local band participates in ANZAC Day, VP Day, and community events.

The United Tableland Pipe Band also collaborates with other local bands for various performances, including Cairns RSL Pipes and Drums, the Atherton Hot Shots, St Andrews Musical nights in Cairns, local shows, rodeos, and street marches.

In 2019, band members joined the massed community band at the Royal

Edinburgh Military Tattoo in Sydney, performing at the Sydney Olympic Stadium to an audience of 35,000 people.

They play traditional pipe music with occasional international tunes or bagpipe covers of popular songs.

The concert will be performed on Sunday, 9 February from 3pm-5pm.

This is a family-friendly free event, and if patrons wish, they can donate directly to the band.

Remember to bring along a chair, blanket, or rug.

Refreshments are available from nearby shops. Parking is available via Short Street. In case of rain, the alternative venue will be the Yungaburra Rec Shed, Barrine Road (next to tennis courts).

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Councillor Update Mareeba Shire Councillor Amy Braes

This month, I can share that the “Councillors Connecting with Community” forums, which I foreshadowed in my 2024 column, are set to begin in the coming months.

On behalf of all Councillors, I invite you to attend the session that best suits you, regardless of the location.

The Speewah session is scheduled for Monday 24th March, 2025. Keep an eye out for all the details in the Express, on Council’s website, and on Facebook. We hope to see you at a session that suits you.

In 2024, I was also proud to support Council’s first ‘Composting Made Simple’ workshops, and the

community’s response and feedback was exceptional.

Thank you to all who supported the workshops.

Composting serves to reduce the amount of food organics and garden organics in kerbside wheelie bins and fits more broadly into the bigger topic of taking responsibility for your own ‘waste footprint’.

Encouragingly, residents across the Shire are doing just that - more residents are composting; more residents are taking their recycling to the Transfer Stations (it’s free!) and more residents are reusing and repurposing items that would otherwise end up in landfill.

The low contamination levels in the Mareeba Shire’s recycling efforts are second-to-none, and I commend everyone for their efforts in contributing to this success.

If you would like to know more about recycling in the Mareeba Shire, simply call Council on 1300 308 461 or visit Council’s website or a

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

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

Customer Service Centre.

You will find all the information you need to start recycling, or to expand on what you are already doing.

Council has also created a series of Fact Sheets and videos which are packed with practical tips to support residents to ‘Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, and Rethink’. This time-tested adage will be key to minimising the financial and environmental costs of waste in years to come.

Councillor Amy Braes Phone: 0429 061 981 Mail: PO Box 154, Mareeba QLD 4880 Email: AmyB@msc.qld.gov.au

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.

XC1000_RJED_NIAA_186x129

The sudden passing of Councillor Kevin Davies has seen an outpouring across the Mareeba Shire; and the stories that have been shared are testament to Kevin’s character, his humility and the dedication he showed to his community. Vale Kevin – you will be missed.

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

The Express, Wednesday January 29 2025 PAGE 11

ON LAND the

Top global trends impacting Australian food and agri CHANGED eating patterns due to the rising use of anti-obesity drugs, a shift towards drinking alcohol at home, and increasing demand for dairy products tailored to older consumers are among some of the top global

trends in food and agriculture set to impact Australia in the next five years, according to Rabobank.

The global agribusiness banking specialist has developed a series of podcasts using global

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strategists from the bank’s RaboResearch division who examine the top trends “from farm to fork along the global supply chain for food and agriculture to 2030”.

It identified a number of major macro factors set to impact right across the sector which included: changing trade dynamics due to potential tariffs and government policies; an ageing global population; rapid innovation and adoption of AI across the supply chain; and a continuing focus on sustainability (with 2030 approaching as the deadline for a number of policy and corporate climate targets).

In addition, a large number of other global trends are seen emerging in – or continuing to drive – specific parts of the food and agri supply chain, according to podcast host, RaboResearch Australia and New Zealand general manager Stefan Vogel.

“These range from, at consumer level, the growing prevalence of people using antiobesity medication in the US and some European and Asian countries – and the resulting

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PAGE 12 The Express, Wednesday January 29 2025

changed diets that are impacting shopping baskets – through to, at farm level, the expected rapid growth in many regions of the use of ‘biologicals’, natural products that enhance crop growth,” he said.

Mr Vogel said the impacts of geopolitics and potential new trade tariffs were expected to be increasingly felt across the global food and agribusiness supply chain in the next five years.

“Under another Trump presidency, or ‘Trump 2.0’, for many exporters dealing with the US, but also China, the threatened US import tariffs and potentially arising trade wars are a major concern on the way to 2030,” he said.

“Companies around the globe that are exporting to the US may need to consider strategies to mitigate the impact of tariffs, including options like lowering prices to maintain competitiveness in the US market or investing in local production facilities in the United States to avoid tariffs altogether.

“However, the uncertainty surrounding potential tariffs and trade policies makes it challenging for companies to make long-term business decisions. On the positive side though, a strong US dollar might mitigate some of the tariff impacts.”

The use of so-called AOMs (anti-obesity medications) was already starting to have a discernible impact on the food industry in the US and other countries. Users tended to consume fewer calories and choose to eat different foods, Mr Vogel said.

He said studies show users of AOMs often cut down their consumption of calorie-dense and processed foods while their grocery spend on nutrient rich and perceived healthy foods, like yoghurt and fresh produce, rises.

On the beverage side, there was a notable global trend identified in the consumption of alcohol at home rather than in bars and restaurants.

“This has been largely driven by inflation and the higher cost of food and beverages outside the home, with consumers electing to ‘eat and drink in’ instead,” Mr Vogel said.

“The consumption of food and beverages at home rather than in restaurants and bars is felt through the entire beverage supply chain, from producers to retailer.”

Additionally, there had been a decline in global per capita alcohol consumption overall, and particularly wine and beer. This was seen to be due to a combination of demographic change – with an ageing population drinking less – and “younger consumers not necessarily as engaged in alcohol”.

At the dairy counter, an

Autonomous machinery and AI (artificial intelligence) are transforming farming operations around the world, and this is expected to continue at speed in the coming five years.

Among top trends in food and agri to 2030 is the growing popularity of smaller, snack-sized fruit and vegetables (such as berries and cocktail tomatoes).

ageing global population was expected to drive demand for dairy products tailored to older consumers, the agribusiness specialist said.

“As people age, they often seek out products that support their health and wellbeing, such as protein shakes and medical nutrition,” Mr Vogel said.

“And this trend presents opportunities for the dairy industry to develop new products that cater to the needs of older consumers. This socalled ‘active silvers’ group of the population represents a growing category. China, for example, by 2030 is expected to have 100 million more people over the age of 55 than it did in 2020.”

At farm level, autonomous machinery and AI (artificial intelligence) were transforming farming operations around the world, and this trend was expected to continue at speed in the coming five years.

Mr Vogel said the use of driverless helicopters and large drones for crop spraying, for example, was becoming more widespread, aided by AI. “Labour-intense sectors like fresh produce are already using these technologies and are expected to further adopt them for tasks that can reduce

manual labour like spraying, planting, harvesting, processing and packaging,” Mr Vogel said.

The on-farm usage of ‘biologicals’ – naturally occurring microorganisms, plant extracts, beneficial insects, and other organic matter – to enhance plant growth, control pests and diseases, and improve soil health and fertility – is also expected to rise in the five years.

Among other top trends in food and agri to 2030 discussed in the podcast series were: • the growing popularity of smaller, snack-sized fruit and vegetables (such as berries and cocktail tomatoes) and those with enhanced convenience qualities, including pre-cut vegetables and easy-peel fruit • increasing use of sustainable packaging, such as recycledmoulded fibre and • an even stronger role expected to be played by climate risk and mitigation in companies’ strategic and operational plans, including in diversified sourcing and business growth.

The RaboResearch Top 2030 Global Trends podcasts are available at RaboResearch Podcasts or search ‘RaboResearch’ in any major podcast app.

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

ON LAND the

Rock crushing operation approved OWNERS of a property designated as agricultural land were given the green light to remove, crush and on-sell 5000 tonnes of rock a year following approval by the Mareeba Shire Council last week.

Wallace Quarrying and Mining applied on behalf of the property owners for a Development Permit for Material Change of Use – Extractive Industry (Up to 5,000 tonnes per annum), in June last year.

The property, on Tinaroo Creek Road, Mareeba, was initially cleared of 80% of its native vegetation following State Government approval in 2017/18, to enable “irrigated

high-value agriculture”. The approval required this land to be cropped, or it must be revegetated.

A report to council said a large amount of basalt rock was removed from the soil profile at the eastern end of the property, which is now cropped with avocados (approximately 6 hectares). The rock has been stockpiled at the western end of the land.

A large proportion of the remaining land cleared for agriculture was still awaiting rock removal. The applicants proposed to crush both the stockpiled basalt rock, as well as the rock currently on the rest of the site, as it is removed

over time.

The work would occasionally require blasting, the report said, to break up the larger rocks, before they could be crushed.

The crushed rock would then be screened and washed to produce a saleable resource.

Three submissions, two by neighbouring property owners, and one by Conmat Construction Materials, opposed the proposal, highlighting technical flaws in the application; dust, noise and emissions issues; and that the applicant could extract material up to 5,000 tonnes per annum on a continuous basis for years to come. This last submission called for a more specific Operational Works Permit for

the clearing/crushing of the already stockpiled rocks.

Mayor Angela Toppin said this last issue could not happen as the land was approved for “agricultural use only”, and the rocks were being removed to enable that.

Chief executive officer Peter Franks added that the region was known for its “huge basalt boulders”, and any landowner had the right to remove them.

“And in this case, they asked ‘rather than pulling the rocks up and putting them aside, we want to be able to crush them and sell them’.

“There isn’t a time frame on it, but they’re only allowed to remove the rocks that are there.”

The approval also came with a list of conditions that addressed dust, water quality, weed and pest control, and “potential noise impacts the blasting and rock crushing activities may have on the nearby sensitive land uses”.

These included: • The operation for crushing, screening and washing rock could only occur a maximum of 10 days in a four-week period, and only between Monday and Friday, 7am and 6pm. No weekends or public holidays.

• Rock could be ripped or picked from paddocks on-site between 7am and 6pm Monday to Friday and 7am to 12pm Saturdays.

• Blasting associated with the approved extractive industry must not occur more than twice per year. A Blast Management Plan must be developed for each blasting activity.

• Any resident located within 1km of the blast site must be made aware of each blasting event at least two weeks in advance.

• No mechanical “rock breakers” (except crushers) of any kind can be used as part of the extractive operation.

• Records must be provided of quantities of material extracted/ removed from the site, as well as truck movements, on a monthly basis.

Backing the future for young innovators GRANTS of up to $50,000 are being offered to develop innovative ideas that improve the lives of young people in remote, rural and regional Queensland.

Applications for funding under the Backing the Future program are open to young people, aged 18 and over, and close on 17 March 2025.

The program is a partnership between the Vincent Fairfax Family Foundation (VFFF) and the Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal (FRRR) which combines the funding ability of VFFF with FRRR’s extensive knowledge of and connection to remote, rural and regional communities.

The funding is for individuals only, in a bid to eliminate one of the barriers that often exist in accessing philanthropy.

VFFF chief executive officer Jenny Wheatley said the foundation was excited about the program’s potential to discover and back young innovators who had transformative ideas.

“We have already supported 17 incredible community changemakers in Queensland through previous rounds of this program, and we look forward to backing 10 new ideas that will create lasting impacts for young people in their communities,” she said.

“We know that often the

Jameson Harvey created Red Dirt Robotics to deliver robotics workshops in remote Qld schools.

hardest part of getting a project off the ground is securing initial funding to test the idea. This is especially true in rural and remote areas, where high costs and smaller populations make piloting new projects even more challenging.”

Ms Wheatley said early-stage support had given past participants the confidence to develop their ideas and deliver events, social enterprises and charities that continue to benefit young people

across the state.

An example was grant recipient Jameson Harvey, who used his $50,000 grant to deliver robotics workshops in remote schools.

“Access to robotics and 3D printers is hard to come by in regional and remote communities,” he said.

“To see students walk into the classroom a bit nervous and unsure about these fancy technologies, and then, by the end of the

session, walk away confident in programming and design skills – even skills that were tricky for me to learn – is incredibly rewarding.”

FRRR’s chief executive officer Natalie Egleton said anyone interested in applying should contact FRRR’s Youth Futures team to have a chat about a potential project. It would also host a free webinar to explain more about the program and answer questions. FRRR also provided capacity-building support to successful applicants.

“We know that young people are the future of vibrant, resilient and sustainable rural communities,” Ms Egleton said.

“By providing opportunities that strengthen their connection and open doors to new possibilities, we can empower them to create transformative outcomes for themselves and their communities.”

The FRRR webinar will be held at 12 noon (AEST) on Wednesday, 5 February. Register at: https:// events.humanitix.com/2025-qldbacking-the-future-grants.

To learn more, visit www. frrr.org.au/backing-the-future or call 1800 170 020 and speak to FRRR’s Youth Futures Manager, Lauren.

About FRRR The Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal is a national

foundation focused on ensuring the social and economic strength of remote, rural and regional communities. FRRR connects common purposes and investment with locally-prioritised needs.

Since it began in 2000, it has delivered more than $200 million to more than 15,000 projects.

About VFFF Established by Sir Vincent

Fairfax in 1962, VFFF is a charitable trust, with family members spanning three generations. It has distributed more than $220 million to Australian communities. VFFF’s current focus is on backing young people with innovative opportunities that advance their independence, social purpose and future security.

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www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

The Express, Wednesday January 29 2025 PAGE 13

r to i d e e th to LETTERS

EMAIL editorial@theexpressnewspaper.com.au

Standing by physics

IT’S very flattering that Peter Campion takes such a keen interest in my career.

(Letters, 15/1/25). It gives me no end of pleasure that I seem to be living rentfree in his head. I won’t be spending a millisecond of my time checking his claim to have been a fireman.

Typical of Peter’s research skills though, he’s wrong again. If I was a solar panel salesman as he claims, I’d be about the worst one that ever lived, having from memory sold about half a

dozen of them in the early 1990s.

I suspect that Peter has stumbled across my old R&D company, Solar Sells Pty Ltd, and assumed from the name that it sold solar panels, which it didn’t. Its sole purpose was to conduct fundamental solar energy R&D. Whilst I have been responsible for the purchase of about a quarter of a million solar panels for a circa 300MW wind and solar project I developed, I am not now (as I am retired) and never have made a living selling solar panels. But as I’ve said before, Peter has a hard time

distinguishing what is true from what he wishes was true.

With that now hopefully put to bed, I’ll move onto Peter’s claim that I don’t understand the “physics” that he apparently had explained to him by a physics professor.

As I have pointed out previously, the standard instrument that we use to measure atmospheric CO2 concentration relies on the very principle that Peter says violates the laws of physics.

It’s called an IRGA or Infrared Gas Analyser. It fires infrared radiation through a column of air and measures the difference between how much was sent and how much arrives at the detector, and from that calculates the amount of CO2 in that column of air.

If CO2 was incapable of doing what Peter says it can’t, or as some claim, that there is no proof of, or that as others claim, that the effect max’s out at 300 ppm irrespective of the actual CO2 concentration, then these instruments would be useless. But they aren’t.

I’ve used them in real-world experiments. They are calibrated back to NIST (US National Institute of Standards and Technology) standards. They work.

That is unless you believe that NIST is in on it as well, in which case you should also be asking the question of whether a kilogram is really a kilogram, or a metre a metre, or there is a family of fairies living down in Priors Creek.

This has to be the dumbest debate in the history of mankind.

David Blake DANBULLA

Stop ignoring reality

PHOTO OF THE WEEK

THEME: Geometric patterns in nature. WINNER: Robin Callander, Kuranda. DETAILS: This Lace Monitor was chased up a tree by a stroppy scrub Turkey who was protecting its nest.

Download for FREE from iTunes or Google Play PAGE 14 The Express, Wednesday January 29 2025

MAYBE the scientific predictions have been inaccurate, but the global climate is a big thing with a multitude of variables that change daily, which makes it difficult to predict.

With atmospheric carbon levels in the 400+ ppm, a level not recorded for three million years or so, it’s difficult to believe that this hasn’t and won’t have any impact on the climate.

With the recording of rapidly melting ice sheets in both arctic regions; massive flooding from more frequent and intense rain events, larger cyclones and hurricanes; unprecedentedly large and frequent bushfire events; crop failures from longer droughts; the death of coral reefs from higher ocean temperatures; accelerating extinction of plants and animals; and the highest global temperatures in recorded history, extensive heatwaves leading to deaths in the elderly and other vulnerable people, it seems the evidence is strongly in favour of the science.

To claim that these things were not predicted, in broad terms by climate scientists is obviously and negligently wrong.

Is it wilful ignorance, callous indifference, heartless arrogance, or simply blind faith in one own beliefs that would prompt anyone to ignore reality and believe this is some kind of ‘alarmist’ scam?

Dale Heers BARRINE

Hillside clearing okay

REPLYING to Ian Locke (22/01/25) regarding hillside clearing concern.

Ian, if your concern is, re the hillside clearing on the left and now the right of Moregatta Road, this land is previous grazing land that has been left for more years than anyone cares to remember.

All the land is covered in lantana, tobacco bush, and other weeds.

Limited trees have been disturbed, and we are following the land clearing protocol and have been audited by the land management which alphas been approved and will be be planting trees in one area.

All this land was previous grazing land and it is going back to grazing land.

Due to the expertise of the dozer operator, there is limited, if any, runoff into the streams around the block as he knows what he is doing.

The clearing has been in progress for the last 18 months so certainly not been done during the wet season.

As noxious weeds, and rubbish have been cleared the land is being reseeded with grass there again preventing any runoff.

I do however agree with you re the clearing off good farming land going under subdivision.

Kim Cahalane Tablelands

Tackle the polution

THE Express allows Tablelanders to express themselves and how. With regards to the climate change debate which has been ongoing for many months, we are being bedazzled by much scientific jargon such as “anthropogenic”, “Stefan-Boltzmann Law” and “oxy-acetylene”.

For those of us who have lived for many years at the same address, I don’t think we need scientific evidence and statistics to believe that climate change is here – it is real. We feel it with our senses.

In the house where I live, during the hotter months, a single pedestal fan sufficed until the summer of 20232024. It was then I deduced that I could no longer endure the intense, prolonged heat. I had to act.

Although I did not wish to increase my energy consumption, I had a couple of ceiling fans installed without further ado. Just the other day, the Majestic Theatre commented on social media how crazy it is that we’ve had non-stop heatwaves since early December.

So, what are we to do about this hot, humid and horrible weather? Instead of debating climate change, maybe we should shift our focus slightly to pollution which is a far easier concept to understand?

I acknowledge that this idea is not originally mine. It possibly first came to my attention when I read “A Feeling for Nature” by Topaz resident, Stanley Breeden, one of Australia’s pioneering nature photographers and writers.

It has been predicted by the year 2050 there will be more plastic in the ocean than fish. Do we truly wish our children and grandchildren to inherit a filthy planet?

Pollution not only affects us but the natural world. Sir David Attenborough stated the following: “The truth is: the natural world is changing. And we are totally dependent on that world. It provides our food, water and air. It is

the most precious thing we have and we need to defend it.”

To reduce pollution there are various steps individuals can take. These are a few examples: car-pooling; purchasing products which are not in plastic packaging (only 9% of plastic can be recycled); starting a veggie patch; supporting the local community garden; composting our food scraps; supplying our own mugs for takeaway coffee; not succumbing to “fast fashion”; and swimming in our beautiful lakes and waterfalls at times when the sun is not high in the sky which will avoid the need to apply sunscreen.

Whilst tackling the problem of pollution we are invariably reducing our carbon footprint, which, in turn, will have a favourable effect on our climate.

Let’s be the change we wish to see in our world.

Jocelyn Goodwin MALANDA

Heartfelt call to action

AS REDFEB, Heart Awareness Month, approaches this February, Heart Research Australia is urging all Australians to come together and take action to safeguard both their heart and brain health.

This year, we are shedding light on the crucial link between cardiovascular health and cognitive function and sharing effective day-to-day strategies to support both. It’s crucial to understand that what supports the heart also benefits the brain.

Heart disease remains the leading cause of death in Australia, and its effects reach far beyond our hearts. Conditions such as high blood pressure and high cholesterol can not only cause damage to the heart, but can also increase the risk of cognitive decline, and the development of dementia.

By 2054, the number of Australians living with dementia is expected to double. So, protecting our heart and brain health now is more vital than ever, not only for our own health and wellbeing, but to reduce the pressure on our health system as it braces for the impact of an ageing population.

In our communities, the impact of heart disease and dementia are deeply felt. We see it in our families, friends, and neighbours.

The path forward begins with simple, actionable steps. Heart Research Australia’s 4-M Approach—Meals, Movement, Measurement, and Mental Wellness—guides us to take small, meaningful actions today, which can protect both our hearts and our minds.

At Heart Research Australia, we are committed to reducing the devastating impact heart disease has on families and the community. This REDFEB, we are asking Australians to come together to wear red, raise awareness, and contribute to the vital research that will change lives.

By taking action today, we can reduce the devastating effects of heart disease tomorrow. Together, as one community, we can make a difference for our future.

To learn more about Heart Research Australia’s 4-M approach and support Heart Research Australia’s critical research, please visit www.heartresearch. com.au.

Nicci Dent

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

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

PROPERTY

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Flat, fertile, fantastic

THIS 42.66-hectare (105acre) property features 12 spacious paddocks and 2 holding paddocks, all with natural water sources, 2 creeks and a picturesque waterfall. Additionally the property has clean pastures, timber stockyards, with cattle race, a vet crush and loading ramp.

The main residence consists of a 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms open plan home.

A large modern kitchen and an enclosed sunroom serve as a versatile lounge, and the patio offers stunning rural views.

A separate 2-bedroom, 1-bathroom granny flat includes a workshop, ideal for guests or rental opportunities.

A 30m x 15m lockable shed features a living space with 2 bedroom, office, bathroom, laundry, and a private lounge for teenagers.

Property Features: • 42.66 Hectares (105 Acres*) • 3 bed, 2 bath home • Enclosed sunroom • Patio with stunning views • 2 Bedroom granny flat

•F enced into 14 paddocks •2 Natural creeks and Waterfall • Timber stockyards •C rush + race + loading ramp •L arge 30m x 15m shed • Workshop Contact agent Morgan Brennan at Ray White Rural Atherton on 0407 730 450 or 07 4091 7111.

Address: Price: Agent: Contact:

Atherton

22 Main Street, Atherton Phone: 4091 7111

LOVELY FAMILY HOME Atherton • 4 Bedrooms, 2 Bath, 2 Car • Main with ensuite and walk-in robe • Timber kitchen, 2 Pantries • Aircon in lounge and 2 Bedrooms • Entertaining deck with amazing views • 2 Bay shed, storage room under deck Offers Over $799,000 Suzey Whitby 0438 090 306

Diane Brennan: Principal www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

210 Pheasant Road, MILLAA MILLAA $1,680,000 Morgan Brennan Ray White Atherton 0407 730 450 or 4091 7111

CLIMATE LIFESTYLE INCOME Malanda • 66.37ha • 3 Bedrooms, 2 Bath, 6 Car • Renovated Queenslander style home • 3 Springs + Brodie Creek • Cattle yards with loading ramp & shed • 5 Fenced paddocks, rich volcanic soil $2,350,000 Morgan Brennan 0407 730 450

A CHARMING RESIDENCE Atherton • 3 Bedrooms, 1 Bath, 5 Car • Nice sized yard • Renovated bathroom • Garage lined for extra living space • 2 Bay shed

RARE GRAZING COUNTRY Gunnawarra • 5,809ha • Reliable rainfall • 3 Fully fenced paddocks • Freehold timber rights • Approx carrying capacity 400 Head

$535,000 Suzey Whitby

Contact Agent Morgan Brennan

0438 090 306

0407 730 450

www.raywhiteruralatherton.com.au The Express, Wednesday January 29 2025 PAGE 15

PROPERTY

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Low maintanence with huge extra high garage THIS modern steel-frame and Colourbond-clad home offers a distinctive look that sets it apart from typical new builds. The exterior’s unique style ensures you’ll stand out from the crowd, while the fully lined and fittedout interior provides all the conveniences of a new home without the hefty price tag.

As you step inside, you’ll discover that the home offers more than meets the eye. The layout features three bedrooms (two spacious), two bathrooms, and a generously sized living area perfect for entertaining family and friends.

The central open-plan living space combines a large lounge room, a dining area, and a deluxe kitchen. The kitchen is complete with a breakfast bar, ample drawer storage, a large fridge space, and a well-sized pantry.

The master bedroom boasts a spacious walk-in wardrobe and en-suite. The two additional bedrooms are equipped with built-in wardrobes, with one offering the flexibility to serve as a study / office or single

bed bedroom.

The home features modern, low-maintenance vinyl plank flooring throughout the living areas, bedrooms, and laundry, while the bathrooms are tiled for durability. The main bathroom includes a separate shower and toilet for added convenience.

Outside, you’ll enjoy you will enjoy the privacy of the patio which is ideal for entertaining, and the property is fully fenced for privacy and security.

For those with recreational vehicles, the large doublebay garage offers extra height with 3.3 metre door height clearance to accommodate a large caravan or boat.

Property Features: •M odern, quality built Colourbond clad, steel frame home •Q uality fit out with a modern neutral colour scheme •3 bedrooms, master bedroom with walk-in robe and ensuite •L arge kitchen with plenty of storage, and breakfast bar

OPEN HOME

Saturday 1 February 11am to 11.45am •O pen plan living, dining & kitchen area •C eiling fans throughout • I nternal laundry with ample storage •8 94m2 low maintenance allotment •G arden shed, fenced on 3 sides •F ixed irrigation to Gardens •E stablished green house

•O nly minutes from town This home combines modern design with functional living spaces, making it a perfect option for anyone seeking style and practicality.

Located on the elevated side of a culdi-sac this low maintenance property is only minutes from town CBD and allows you to have an outlook from the front veranda.

today at Girgenti Real Estate on 427779086 or email rino@girgentigroup. com.

For further information or to arrange your inspection – please contact exclusive marketing agent Rino Gava

Address: Price: Agent: Contact:

16 Damien Street, MAREEBA Offers over $539,000 EXCLUSIVE to Rino Gava Girgenti Real Estate 0427 779 086

Excellent investment opportunity

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.

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

51 Evans Street, Atherton

BLANK CANVAS WITH NO COVENANTS

AREA

1,012m2

• Nestled in a quiet and established cul-de-sac • Conveniently located within walking distance to Main Street • 800m 2 of flat useable land & featuring an easement with est. trees

$189,000 For More Information Contact Michelle Raso 0428 116 136 tablelands.eldersrealestate.com.au

PAGE 16 The Express, Wednesday January 29 2025

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.

Glen Allyn Road, Malanda

VACANT BLOCKS ON THE OUTSKIRTS OF TOWN

Contact:

36 John Street, RAVENSHOE $285,000 Collette Rowston Raine & Horne Atherton 0419 733 712

AREA

From 1,000m2

• Elevated vacant blocks offering endless possibilities • Conveniently located across from the Malanda High School • Power and water connections in place & no covenants

FROM $165,000 For more information Contact Janine Rielly 0407 032 422 tablelands.eldersrealestate.com.au

Address: Price: Agent:

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

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

PROPERTY

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Established home in panorama views estate

OPEN HOME

Saturday 1 February 10am to 11am

Brand new in Amaroo THIS stunning new build located at 22 Moondani Avenue, Mareeba is a fantastic 4 bedroom, 2 bathroom family home in the sought-after Amaroo Estate.

With an open plan living, dining and kitchen space that opens up onto the rear patio, entertaining family and friends will be a breeze. The modern kitchen features a large island bench and plenty of cupboard space too.

All 4 bedrooms have splitsystem air-conditioners, and built-in wardrobes. The master bedroom features a walk-in wardrobe and a great en-suite bathroom. The family bathroom is located near the other bedrooms, with a shower, tub & separate toilet.

The home is fully air-

conditioned, and tiled throughout with an internal laundry and double lock-up garage, and is complimented by quality fixtures and finishes throughout.

Situated on an 814m2 allotment there is plenty of yard space, with Amaroo Park just around the corner and town only a few minutes away.

Property Features: • Brand new NQ Homes build • 4 bedrooms, all with builtins, 2 bathrooms • Master bedroom with Address: Price: Agent: Contact:

ensuite & walk-in robe •M odern kitchen, plenty of storage •O pen plan living, dining & kitchen •F ully air-conditioned & tiled • I nternal laundry •D ouble lock-up garage • Tiled rear patio •8 14m2 allotment •S ought after Amaroo Estate

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

22 Moondani Avenue, MAREEBA Offers in the $600,000’s EXCLUSIVE to Vince Costas Central Realty 0419 926 691 or 4092 2232

LOCATED in the popular Panorama Views Estate, this 4-bedroom home boasts an elevated position with beautiful mountain views.

Perfect for those seeking a low-maintenance lifestyle, this home is within walking distance of the charming township of Tolga.

Property Features: • Air-conditioned open-plan living area with two large sliding doors providing indoor-outdoor flow and natural breezes.

• Well-equipped kitchen with ample storage and modern appliances.

• Internal laundry conveniently adjoining the kitchen.

• Spacious master bedroom

with walk-in robe & ensuite.

• Three additional bedrooms, all generously sized with built-in robes.

• Main bathroom with an easyaccess shower, bathtub, and separate toilet.

• Tiled flooring throughout, with carpet in all bedrooms for added comfort.

• Tiled outdoor patio perfect for entertaining, plus a separate open patio ideal for barbecuing or a fire pit.

• Double car garage with remote access for secure parking and storage.

With only one owner this beautifully presented home combines practical living with thoughtful design. Don’t miss your chance to secure a low maintenance home in sought after location.

Contact exclusive Elders agents Michelle and Janine today to arrange a viewing.

Address: 14 Bellamy Drive, TOLGA Price: Contact Agent Agent: EXCLUSIVE to Michelle Raso & Janine Rielly Elders Real Estate Tablelands Contact: 0428 116 136 or 0407 032 422

SEVEN SISTER V IEWS ESTATE ATHERTON

640m2 - 2484m2 Fully Serviced and Benched Blocks

ER U N D R AC T T CON

Priced From $175,000 House and Land Packages Also Available From $625,000*

SO

SO

LD

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FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT US | Email: stoneslate@hotmail.com Ishak Karamujic - Mobile: 0408 772 426 | Katrina Karamujic - Mobile: 0438 739 839

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The Express, Wednesday January 29 2025 PAGE 17

PROPERTY

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Perfect family home in a great location

POSITIONED in a quiet, family friendly street and surrounded by other quality homes is this immaculately presented and well maintained 4 bedroom family home.

Offering a spacious floorplan filled with natural light, quality fittings and open plan living. All bedrooms have built in wardrobes and the master suite has a large walk-in robe and a generous ensuite.

The neutral colour pallet throughout, coupled with the vinyl flooring adds to the overall appeal. There is an impressive entertaining area at the side of the home, overlooking the spacious yard and scenic views.

Property features include: •S olid rendered block home built in 2023 •L arge open plan living with air-conditioning & glass sliding doors opening onto

the entertainment patio.

• Stylish, spacious kitchen with electric appliances, breakfast bar, pantry, dishwasher and plenty of cupboard space.

• Master bedroom features a generous ensuite & walk-in robe • Bedrooms (2), (3) & (4) with built in robes • Main bathroom with a walkin shower, separate bathtub, and vanity unit

• Internal laundry with custom made cabinetry, sink, and direct door access to clothesline.

• Vinyl flooring, airconditioning, ceiling fans, aluminium screens, quality fittings and plenty of storage space throughout home.

• Entertainment patio – relax with the family and entertain in privacy • Double remote-control garage with internal access

•V ehicle access to large low maintenance backyard – room for a shed •F enced 1,046m2 allotment •L ocated only 2.6kms from Atherton Town Centre

WE are excited to offer for purchase this strategically located freestanding commercial building with a land area of 1,100sqm.

Ideally located in a secluded park like setting within easy walking distance to town, just 350 metres to Woolies.

This building has a multifunctional floorplan with an area of approximately 400sqm, suitable for allied medical, or service use plus the potential for other uses.

A reception area, numerous air-conditioners,

a stainless steel kitchen and staff amenities are just some of the features.

Ample parking is available providing convenient access for clients and staff.

The subject property represents a unique opportunity to secure an investment, encompassing a strategic landholding in a key location.

There are endless options to consider as exciting and diverse opportunities exist to optimise the value of this property.

This property is being

marketed under Expressions of Interest, consequently a price guide cannot be provided.

Expressions of Interest close at 4.00pm on the 28th of February 2025.

Property inspections are to be conducted by appointment with the

Address: Price: Agent: Contact:

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

90 Countryview Drive, ATHERTON $790,000 EXCLUSIVE to Raquel Cunzolo Sommerset Realty 0408 983 879

Occupy or invest

Address: Price: Agent: Contact:

marketing agent.

For more information, please call Trisha Jackson at Professionals Atherton.

Phone 4091 3955 or 0419 1833 145 anytime.

To view more photos, visit athertonrealestate. com.au

ATHERTON Expressions of Interest Trisha Jackson Professionals Real Estate Atherton 0419 183 145

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

*Free No Obligation Appraisal

84 Main Street, Atherton QLD. 4883

Phone: 0408 983 879 www.sommersetrealty.com.au PAGE 18 The Express, Wednesday January 29 2025

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

PROPERTY

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

Showroom and warehouse with excellent exposure LOCATED on busy Chewko Road, Mareeba with excellent signage exposure this high clearance commercial warehouse offers the following attributes: • 12m x 24m steel framed and insulated high clearance shed • 26m x 14m high clearance skillion roof awning • 72m2 air-conditioned front showroom/office, storeroom

• Bathroom and toilet facilities • 72m2 mezzanine level with air-conditioned office, kitchen and smoko room • Full concreted driveway/ hardstand area with off street parking • 4 x high clearance roller doors • 3 Phase compressor unit • 4 post hoist • 2 post hoist • Excellent signage and

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

THIS SATURDAY 10.00AM - 11.00AM

43c Chewko Road, MAREEBA Contact Agent Joe Torrisi Joe Torrisi Real Estate 0417 700 468

• FULLY TILED & AIRCONDITIONED, 4 BED, 2 BATH • MASSIVE COVERED ENTERTAINMENT AREA • 1000M2 + SIDE ACCESS, 2 BAY SHED & LEAN-TO PRICE: $635,000 JOE TORRISI 0417 700 468 WWW.JOETORRISI.COM.AU

branding opportunities •P roven location •V acant possession •O wner would be prepared to rent back for 3-6 months Address: Price: Agent: Contact:

OPEN HOME

9 Jacana Close, Mareeba

EXCITING NEW ATHERTON DEVELOPMENT 188 Rockley Road

Colle e Rowston 0419 733 712

• 4 bedrooms, all with built-in cupboards • 2 bathrooms + media room • Open plan living with raked ceiling, kitchen with stone benchtops • Outdoor living with porphyry crazy paving • Large 2040m2 block, 6.4m x 6.4m double lock up garage

Web ID 22389514 Sale $870,000

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

The Express, Wednesday January 29 2025 PAGE 19

EXPRESS O Wednesday 29th 28° 23°

Thursday 30th 29° 21°

Time m 0232 0.43 0926 3.20 1524 1.14 2100 2.45

Friday 31st 30° 21°

Time m 0310 0.39 1000 3.25 1600 1.10 2138 2.47

time to put the kettle on...

Saturday 1st 30° 21°

Time m 0348 0.44 1033 3.22 1640 1.09 2219 2.44

Sunday 2nd 31° 20°

Time m 0429 0.60 1108 3.10 1721 1.12 2307 2.35

Time m 0512 0.86 1144 2.88 1807 1.18

A N A L Y S I S E N E T A L E R K B J G S M M K R M L L R E S E R V E S W P S N C S R O T C A F S A A Q G L Y R A U E I R S Y S M A I N S T R E A M I R P T M L E E M T M G R P H B R T P S R P U M B I W L S R C E E D U T I T T A R N W P L E I P Z I H L T P Y V O N N E I R R A D C A L X N L G A C E M O G S M A O I H R P E E R G I A M Y A E E S L T G T E S E V L H L M B N Z N Z M D U I R N W R I T E C B E H E O S N E Z F O E E S R O D N E A C C R R A T N Y W N S T D S R B R U T T H N T T V T M A A S O M R A E P I H T S N A F Y K O L L B P M U F B T S C Y U B N L T C N N N O S R E P S E L A S N A O R G I O U E X T R A C T R A F F I C J F U H C U R R I C U L U M D R I N K R V Y T E Q A I G N I D L I U B D E P O R T K Drink Economy Endorse Extract Factor Glance Groan Helpless Hunter Liberty

Mainstream Material Minute Obstacle Potential Progress Rational Refer Relate Relative

SUDOKU

Reserve Salesperson Screw Spell Stitch String Suntan Suppress Symptom Thick

2 4 6 7 5 9 7 1 8 9

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ACROSS: 1 A powerful motor vehicle with large rear wheels, used chiefly on farms. (7) 5 A metaphor used in job recruitment to describe the abilities of persons in the workforce. (1-6) 9 Unpredictable and potentially dangerous. (5) 10 Poetry that does not rhyme or have a regular rhythm.

(4,5) 11 A boy or young man (often as a form of address). (3) 12 Behaving in an unpleasant or spiteful way. (5) 13 A contagious disease caused by a virus that affects the salivary glands. (5) 14 A large farm, especially in North America where cattle or other animals are bred. (5) 16 Having swellings on the root which contain nitrogen-fixing bacteria. (9) 19 A fast contact sport played on an ice rink between two teams of six skaters. (3,6) 20 Greek fabulist and storyteller credited with a number of fables. (5)

Time m 0135 2.12 0702 1.58 1329 2.29 2055 1.28

22 The eighth letter of the Greek alphabet. (5) 24 Abbreviation of coffee without caffeine. (5) 26 A stiff bristle, especially one of those growing from the ear or flower of barley, rye, and many grasses. (3) 27 A very powerful, important, or eminent person. (9) 29 A child. (Scottish & Northern English) (5) 30 Meet the expectations, needs, or desires of (someone).

(7) 31 A tide that runs in the same direction as the wind is blowing. (3,4) DOWN: 1 A very small fish of any kind. Informal. (7) 2 The part of grammar that deals with the inflections of words. (9) 3 Put on an item of clothing to see if it fits or suits one. (3-2) 4 A person who refuses to follow orders or obey the law, especially as a protest. (9) 5 A term emphasizing that it is very small. (5) 6 An infection that attacks the body’s immune system. (3) 7 A joyous Jewish holiday. (5) 8 Not naked or in underwear, sleepwear, etc. (7) 13 An island country in Southern Europe located in the Mediterranean Sea, between Sicily and North Africa. (5) 15 Slang; state or condition of excitement, agitation, or disturbance. (3-2) 17 A short educational course on a particular subject. (3,6) 18 Italian conductor of many orchestras worldwide (1867-1957.) (9) 19 A narrow strip of land with sea on either side, forming a link between two larger areas of land. (7) 21 Punishment inflicted on oneself as an outward expression of repentance for wrongdoing. (7) 23 Equivalent to the product of two and four; one more than seven, or two less than ten. (5) 24 A building or room for the processing, storage, and distribution of milk and milk products. (5) 25 A thread or filament from which a vegetable tissue, mineral substance, or textile is formed. (5) 28 Belonging to or associated with a thing previously mentioned or easily identified. (3)

WEEKLY HOROSCOPES Mar 21 - Apr 19 Apr 20 - May 20 May 21 - Jun 20 Be careful when dealing with female members of your family.

You might find it difficult to control your emotions. You can accomplish a lot if you put some effort into household duties or redecorating plans. You will attract new love interests.

2 4 6

5

You will need to work diligently in order to accomplish even the smallest amount. Try not to donate to organizations if you can hardly afford to take care of yourself.

Call a good friend. You have done all you can to sort things out a personal

Jun 21 - Jul 22

Jul 23 - Aug 22

Aug 23 -Sep 22

Drastic changes regarding your personal attitude are evident.

Organize all the responsibilities that have to be attended to and make sure everyone knows what to do. It’s time to get yourself back on track.

Unexpected events may upset your routine.

You may have some difficulties with someone you live with. You are ahead of your time, and trying to stay in one spot could be asking too much. Try not to attempt something unless you are fully intent on following through with the plans.

Sep 23 - Oct 22

3

Opportunities to get ahead will be evident. Make some notes regarding the changes that you should make. You may want to make changes that will turn your entertainment room into a real family affair. Catch up on overdue phone calls and correspondence.

Now is the time to concentrate on building a strong financial future for your family. Do not let in-laws upset you. Real estate and joint financial ventures will be profitable. Be prepared to take care of the issues at hand.

You could be blind to the defects of those you love. You will meet new romantic partners if you get involved in seminars or travel.

Try to keep ahead of the game.

Acceptance will be necessary.

Puzzle Solutions 5 3 6 4 2 9 8 7 1

7 4 2 8 1 6 9 5 3

8 1 9 5 7 3 6 4 2

4 2 1 9 5 8 7 3 6

6 8 7 3 4 1 2 9 5

9 5 3 7 6 2 4 1 8

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9 4 8 7 3 6 5 1 2

2 7 3 1 9 5 4 8 6

1 5 6 8 4 2 3 9 7

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6 1 9 3 2 8 7 5 4

5 8 2 4 6 7 9 3 1

3 2 1 5 8 4 6 7 9

8 9 4 6 7 3 1 2 5

7 6 5 2 1 9 8 4 3

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

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

PAGE 20 The Express, Wednesday January 29 2025

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HARD

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Enter digits from 1 to 9 into the blank spaces.

Every row must contain one of each digit.

EASY

Tuesday 4th 31° 21°

CROSSWORD

BIG WORD SEARCH

Amber Analysis Arrangement Attitude Beard Building Ceiling Curriculum Deport Dismiss

Monday 3rd 31° 20°

Oct 23 - Nov 21

You may have a rather hectic day due to events that children are involved in. Do not sign your life away.

Take care of the needs of elders in your family. You could expand your circle of friends if you get involved in unusual activities.

Nov 22 - Dec 21 You will need a little competition this week. Get involved in activities that will stretch your stamina. You may be able to impart knowledge that’s innovative to those searching for a new angle. Pamper yourself for a change. New projects may lead you into a dead end.

Dec 22 - Jan 19

Jan 20 - Feb 18

Feb 19 - Mar 20

Sign up for seminars that will expand your business awareness.

Your determination may make you a little overbearing when dealing with others. Don’t overreact to someone’s advances. Short trips will be educational.

Think about starting your own small business, You may want to look into warm vacation spots. Try to mix business with pleasure while travelling. Make sure that you have all the pertinent facts before taking action.

Do things that involve children.

Friends and relatives may be hard to take this week. Use your creative flair.

Try to stay calm and understand both sides of the situation.

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

DIRECTORY

BUILDER

admin@theexpressnewspaper.com.au

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

Authorised Fujitsu Service Agent

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

www.donhall.com.au

DEMOLITIONS

AIR CONDITIONING

4092 3464

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

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

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

SERVICES

 New Homes  Bathrooms  Renovations  Concreting  Kitchens

 Sheds

Builder No. 15236920

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

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

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

DRILLING

CABINET MAKER

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

FULLY INSURED

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

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

CLEANING

EARLY LEARNING • KINDERGARTEN OUTSIDE SCHOOL & VACATION CARE

ice s v r e S g n i n a Cle

TABLELAND

AL ACWORTH

FULLY INSURED LOCAL FAMILY BUSINESS

Driveway Services & Bobcat Wet Hire

• Mould & Mildew Treatments

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

• Floor Stripping & Polishing cleanin • Contract Cleaning

FARM

DRIVEWAYS SHED SLABS QBCC 15306413

Justin Batt 0432 157 825

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

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

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

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

HARDWARE

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

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

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

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

Steve 0427 913 214

FLOORING

RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL SLABS

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

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

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

CONCRETING

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

EARTH MOVING

CHILDCARE

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

RAVENSHOE HARDWARE

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

19 Wormboo Street raven@iig.com.au

4097 6208 The Express, Wednesday January 29 2025 PAGE 21

DIRECTORY admin@theexpressnewspaper.com.au

PAINTER

IRRIGATION

4092 3464

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

QBCC: 1255907

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

IRRIGATION DESIGN AND SUPPLY

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

MAXIMUM PEST MANAGEMENT PEST

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

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

CONCR E BLOCK TE S!

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

FILMING

LANDSCAPE

50 BYRNES STREET, MAREEBA • PHONE 4092 7788

TCB Landscape • Mareeba

Funeral Livestreamed and Recorded to USB Over 1000 Funeral Services Livestreamed Contact your Funerals Director or call us direct 4031 3632

Servicing the Atherton Tablelands!

PLUMBING

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

Mal 0488 608 585

MOWING

POOL

active.landscape.constructions@hotmail.com

“WE OFFER A COMPLETE ON SITE POOL SERVICE” POOL MAINTENANCE & POOL SHOP

..,

M. HARTLEY PTY LTD TRADING AS

BELL HARTLEY & CO. PAINTING CONTRACTORS

P: 4092 1176 M: 0418 184 147 E: markterri70@bigpond.com PAGE 22 The Express, Wednesday January 29 2025

0419 719 487

FNQ Platinum Painting

NO OBLIGATION FREE QUOTES!

PO BOX 1414, MAREEBA QBCC 1115490

P: 4092 1443 or 0413 013 297

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

E: fnqplatinumpainting@gmail.com

QBCC 1531 9397

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

Tablelands Grown First & 100% Australian

PRODUCE

CONTACT DANTE AVOLIO FOR A FREE QUOTE!

 RURAL  DOMESTIC  COMMERCIAL  ROOFING  PLUMBING  DRAINAGE

71 BYRNES ST, MAREEBA

www.tablelandstotabletop.com.au

TRAINING

PAINTER

Domestic | Commercial

0415 579 019

Max & Jodie Turner

http://rapidspintv.com.au/funerals/

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

QBCC: 1314309

Domestic and Commercial

T2T Fruit & Veg Market 41 Strattmann Street, Mareeba

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

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

• Standard 11, white card and forklift

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

• Work safely at heights and confined spaces

• Full qualifications from $30*

• AC/DC Chemicals and chainsaws

*eligibility criteria applies

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

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

DIRECTORY admin@theexpressnewspaper.com.au

PROFESSIONAL TREE SERVICE SERVICING NORTH QUEENSLAND

TREELOPPING

TREELOPPING

4092 3464

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

TABLELANDS TREELOPPING

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

CONCRETE

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

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

STORAGE AVAILABLE

General Towing & Breakdowns PHONE DOUG

0417 840 584

STORAGE

VIDEO TAPE

FREE DEAD CAR REMOVAL

Exposed Aggregate Bobcat & Excavator Hire 13 Tonne Tipper Truck 0404 602 937 | Justincmcmanus@live.com

REMOVALS

TOWING

MAREEBA EXPRESS TOWING

All Domestic Concreting

We specialise in: Antique Furniture, Pianos, Pool Tables, Home, Business or Office, Local & Interstate, Full & Part-Packing “A-M-A-Z-I-N-G!! From the first contact, the service was impeccable. The day of the move was second-to-none!

I can’t recommend APR highly enough” - Delta Robins

PHONE OR EMAIL LOUISE & LUKE TODAY FOR A FREE QUOTE!

Based in Atherton | 0484 787 345 | removals.apr@gmail.com

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

Call Beth today on 4092 3464 or email admin@theexpressnewspaper.com.au *Includes a free online listing on www.theexpressbusiness.com.au

s a h g n i s Adverti e or m n e e b er v e n ! e l b a d affor

DIRECTORY You CAN afford to Advertise in The Express Directory.

With prices starting at just $50 per week!

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

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

The Express, Wednesday January 29 2025 PAGE 23

CLASSIFIEDS

EXPRESS The

4092 3464

admin@theexpressnewspaper.com.au

Classified Deadline: 4pm every Friday ChurCh notiCe PRESBYTERIANS meet in Mareeba for worship each Sunday 10am, QCWA Hall, Wilkes Street (behind Meals on Wheels) ALL WELCOME!

in MeMoriaM

Wanted TICKS FOR RESEARCH

In Loving Memory Of

ANTONIO BRANDIMARTE

We need nice healthy PARALYSIS TICKS This is what they look like....

If you find any, put a few dead leaves and sticks in a clean dry jar and then transfer them gently.

Funeral notiCe

27/1/24 Close to our hearts you will always stay, Loved and remembered everyday.

MEMORIAL CELEBRATION OF

Loving wife Lina & sons, granddaughters & grandchildren.

Then call Stephen Sexton Entomologist (Atherton) 0439 061 131 stephensexton@qq.com

trade serViCes

Pets

HEIDENREICH, Terry

Any time between 10am and 2pm on Saturday 1st February. Farewell toast is at 12:30pm.

Halloran’s Hill Lookout.

Whether you knew Terry as a friend or a flower guy, a birdwatcher or a teacher, we would love you to join us in remembering his wonderful life.

Light refreshments will be provided. We will have a guest book to sign. So please bring along some stories or photos of Terry that you can leave with us.

And if you can’t make it along on the day, please ‘head out bush’ and see if you can spot a bird, or an orchid, and remember him in your own way.

Hope to see you there.

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

IN LOVING MEMORY OF

THOMAS, Bert Alexander

Late of Mareeba. Passed away peacefully on Wednesday 15th January, 2025. Aged 94 years.

Much loved Husband of Marjorie (Dec.). Loving Father of Beverley and Jonathan. Cherished Uncle, Brother and Cousin.

Will be sadly missed by all family and friends.

Relatives and friends of Bert are respectfully invited to attend his funeral which is to be held graveside at the Mareeba Cemetery on Thursday, 30th January commencing at 10:00am

PICKO Fencing and some cattle work.

Phone 0493 415 338

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

PHONE: 0477 774 064 jonnydams18@ gmail.com

For rent butCher LOCAL Mobile Farm Butcher - will travel.

Ph Bryan 0407 691 752.

MOBILE farm butcher.

Ph John Hales 0409 638 882.

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

Guilfoyle Funeral Services

KURANDA

LARGE 3 BEDROOM UNIT IN TOWN CENTRE

$400 PW

References and bond required.

No pets.

Working couple.

Phone: 0421 961 181

Chapels, Crematorium & Memorial Gardens

Atherton: 4091 2147 Mareeba: 4092 1013

For sale

Local Family Owned & “Entrusted for over 70 years”

www.guilfoylefunerals.com.au

IN LOVING MEMORY OF

DE ZEN, Aldo Late of Mareeba, formerly Mutchilba.

Passed away peacefully on Thursday the 23rd of January, 2025. Aged 84 years.

Much loved Husband of Carmel. Loving Father of Marisa and Luigi. Nonno of Luke.

Will be sadly missed by all family and friends.

Relatives and friends of Aldo are respectfully invited to attend his funeral service which is appointed to move from St. Thomas Catholic Church, 57 Constance Street, Mareeba on Monday 3rd February, after a Requiem Mass commencing at 1:00pm for interment in the Mareeba Cemetery.

RIDE ON ROVER MOWER With catcher.

$4,000 ONO

P: 0407 925 225 or 4092 5225 FRONIUS Symo 10KW 3 Phase Solar Inverter as new $1950. Ph or message - 0402 831 433

Chapels, Crematorium & Memorial Gardens

Local Family Owned & “Entrusted for over 70 years”

www.guilfoylefunerals.com.au

Funeral Celebrant

FUNERAL Celebrant.

Debbie Boardman 0410 328 357.

IS SOMEONE YOU KNOW GETTING MARRIED? Place an advert in The Express and wish them all the best!

*ANIMAL OF THE WEEK*

NAME: Zola DOB: 17/08/24 BREED: Kelpie x Staffy

Look at that face!

Meet Zola.. a gentle, playful little girl waiting to find a loving forever home. She has been succesfully socialised with kids, cats and other dogs, making her the perfect addition. She’s had thorough vet checks inc desexed, vax’d against fleas, ticks etc. Her fee is $330.

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

Personal   COUNTRY LADY - WENDY   A genuine lady with a happy disposition who is fit and active. Wendy would like to meet a genuine Gent with similar interests.

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PAGE 24 The Express, Wednesday January 29 2025

T-MSC2025-04 SUPPLY AND DELIVERY OF TYPE 4.3 ROAD BASE Mareeba Shire Council invites Tenders from suitably qualified respondents for the Supply and Delivery of Type 4.3 Road Base.

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 Tuesday, 18 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

Proposed Development Make a submission from 30 January, 2025 to 20 February, 2025 Child Care Centre (Expansion) Where: 41B Anzac Avenue, Mareeba Qld 4880 On: Lot 200 on SP213026 Approval Sought: Development Permit for Material Change of Use Application Ref: MCU/25/0001 You may obtain a copy of the application and make a submission to:

Mareeba Shire Council PO Box 154, Mareeba Qld 4880 info@msc.qld.gov.au 1300 308 461 www.msc.qld.gov.au Public notification requirements are in accordance with the Planning Act 2016

Proposed Development Make a submission from: 29th January, 2025 to 21st February, 2025 Material Change of Use Undefined Use (Intensification of Existing Stonemasonry)

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Where: 1 Grant and 3 Mary Streets, Herberton On: Lot 1 on SP346022 Approval Sought: Development Permit Application Ref: MCU24/0023 You may obtain a copy of the application and make a submission to:

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

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The Express, Wednesday January 29 2025 PAGE 25

SPORT

Dimbulah black belt factory XTRHEEM Taekwondo Dimbulah has produced its 64th black belt student following the recent promotion of young local James Kath.

After commencing taekwondo training at five years of age, the now 10 year-old has been promoted to junior black belt in just under five years, joining the impressively long list of black belts already produced by the club.

“James is the 64th student to achieve a black belt at Xtrheem Taekwondo, which is a very impressive statistic for a small rural town with a population of a thousand people,” master instructor Phil Quayle said.

“He has always been a quietly spoken young person and a dedicated student with a respectful attitude.”

At the recent Xtrheem Taekwondo gradings in November, James was

promoted to junior black belt by master instructor Phil Quayle.

His grading required him to demonstrate his skill and technique with several rounds of free sparring, including effectively performing the 30 movements of Choong-Moo 1st Grade black tip pattern, as well as breaking four timber boards with side kick, spinning back kick, knife hand strike and running-jumping flying side kick, which he completed on his first attempt.

“Dedicated practice of martial arts is one of the best physical activities there is. As well as strength and conditioning the body, taekwondo teaches kids and adults self-defense skills, discipline and perseverance,” master Phil said.

“Too many young people today don’t learn about respect, humility and integrity. These are all essential

Discover sailing at Tinaroo

Master instructor Phil Quayle (left) with student James Kath, the 64th student to achieve a blackbelt in taekwondo at Dimbulah.

elements for success in life.

“I’ve been teaching taekwondo in Dimbulah for the past 30 years and it’s a huge honour to me when

students like James step up and reach their full potential through focus, determination and hard work,” he said.

Young local named captain A YOUNG Malanda local has recently been named captain of the Under 18 Queensland Country North side following an impressive performance during a representative competition in early December.

Rhys Johnston, who currently plays for Mulgrave in Cairns, was named captain of the Under 18 Country North side at just 16 years old following his impressive 103-not-out and 89 run performances for Cricket Far North, earning him player of the series.

Rhys will lead the team against Country South in the Ron Bushby Memorial Shield in early April.

The Ron Bushby Shield is one of the biggest junior cricket competitions in North Queensland and is a pathway for country cricketers to represent their state.

“The shield creates a pathway to be selected for Queensland Country U19 Trial fixtures with the hope of being selected in the Under 19 QLD squad, dependant on tournament and stats throughout the season,” Queensland Cricket coaching and talent specialist FNQ Jakob Stennett said.

The talent for cricket in the Johnston family doesn’t end with Rhys however, as his older brother Kobi captained both the Under 18 Country North side and the Under 18 QLD Country side last year.

“It’s pretty cool that I also get to captain the

same team that my brother has,” Rhys said.

“I’ve been wanting to make that side and being only 16 in that Under 18 comp is pretty cool, and then to be named captain was also a really good achievement.

It was in the backyard that Rhys, alongside his older brother Kobi, developed his talent for the game.

“From when I was about two years old I was in the yard playing with balls,” he said.

“Then later on my mum got me into Milo Cricket and I’ve just loved it ever since.

“I grew up playing with my older brother in a higher age group which really helped me get better.

“We spent a lot of time in the backyard playing and pushing each other to be better, and we found a great love for the game in that time.”

Rhys’ focus is on one day playing for Queensland in the Sheffield Shield, the domestic first-class cricket competition of Australia, but before this he aims to first finish high school and move to Brisbane to play First Grade cricket.

“Hopefully after school I can go down to Brisbane and play first grade down there,” he said.

“Then that can lead to Sheffield Shield playing for Queensland, that’s the main goal.”

Sign on day for Malanda’s junior footballers

Rhys Johnston was named captain of the Under 18 Queensland Country North at just 16 years old.

SILO CENTRAL SHOPPING CENTRE Phone 4015 4004 ATHERTON SQUARE SHOPPING CENTRE Phone 4091 7665 FINE JEWELLERY, WATCHES & GIFTWARE ALL JEWELLERY & WATCH REPAIRS PAGE 26 The Express, Wednesday January 29 2025

THE Tinaroo Sailing Club will be holding a Discover Sailing Day this weekend for anybody interested in what the sport is all about.

Held this Saturday from 2pm-4pm, the Discover Sailing Day is part of a nationwide initiative by Australian Sailing to try to encourage people to experience the sport.

The club will provide boats, lifejackets, helmets and qualified skippers to take participants out on the water.

“You don’t need any sailing experience whatsoever, just a hat, towel and sunscreen,” Tinaroo Sailing Club commodore Roger Wadley said.

“So, if someone has ever wanted to know what sailing is all about and what it’s like to get out on the water and be powered by the wind, they can just turn up and we’ll put them on a boat with a skipper.”

If participants want to further discover the sport of sailing following the event, the club will be running a Learn to Sail course next weekend, teaching people how to sail by themselves.

The two-day course is part of an Australian-wide curriculum and will run from 8am-5pm next Saturday and 8am-12 noon on Sunday.

“By the end of the course, participants will be able to sail themselves around a set course of marker buoys and be confident in capsising and righting a boat, getting in and out of a boat from the bank and rigging a boat, among other things,” Roger said.

Following the end of the course on Sunday, the club will host a Club Day where participants will then be able to watch racing in the afternoon or may even be able to fill in as a crew member on a boat to gain experience.

Participants will also receive three free training days at the club following completion of the course.

The Tinaroo Sailing Club is located down the end of Black Gully Road, Tinaroo.

A FUN family day is set for the Malanda Eels junior rugby league club as they hold their sign on day this Sunday from 10am.

The event will be held at their clubhouse at the Malanda Showgrounds where there will be fun activities for children and a barbecue provided.

The club will be registering children from the Under 6 competition through to Under 17s.

“It will be a nice, fun family day. It’s a great family environment at the club and we always welcome any new players, families and volunteers,” Malanda Eels JRL secretary Rachel Martin said.

“Just turn up with a smile and people can register on the day or just come along and try some drills and meet the coaches.

Volunteers Sought - Interested persons please visit: crimestoppersqld.com.au/volunteer www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

SPORT New signing fills halfback position

Mareeba’s Ben Jones was bowled by Kaden Ford during the match on Saturday.

Atherton back in the winner’s circle ATHERTON is back in the winner’s circle after downing a depleted Mulgrave side in their cricket match in Cairns on Saturday.

Captain Tom Boorman returned to the side and notched up 31 runs for his team, while Cameron Davis also displayed some batting talent, picking up a run-a-ball with his score of 31.

Boorman also featured with the ball, taking three wickets in the match alongside Greg Misener who made a huge contribution with his four wickets.

Atherton batted first, notching up 143 runs, but Mulgrave had no way of matching it, being bowled out in the 35th over for 127.

The Atherton side is now sitting in third sport on the ladder.

The Mareeba Bandits had a shocker against top-of-the-table Norths at Borzi Park on Saturday, being bowled out in the 20th over for just 64 runs.

Norths put 209 on the scoreboard in their innings, with Arjun Maini the top scorer with 55 runs.

Tyson Brown was the best of Mareeba’s bowlers, taking four wickets.

But when it came to bat, Mareeba fell well short, with Nadeem Chohan the top scorer with just 12 runs.

Captain Brendan Falvo and Brown were the only other batsmen to get to double figures.

Norths’ Corey Domic and Kadan Ford did the damage, taking four wickets each.

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

THE Mareeba Gladiators’ newest signing of halfback Kaleb Eaton is a “big piece of the puzzle” for their A Grade squad and brings unparalleled representative experience to the team.

The recent signing of the young Cairns local has eased recruiting pressures for the club, as he fills the important halfback position.

He brings with him valuable knowledge and experience from his representative pathway roles with the Canterbury Bulldogs and North Queensland Cowboys.

The former Cairns Brothers player found himself signing with Mareeba club after he was looking for a more permanent A Grade position, as he struggled to secure a spot behind the Brothers’ captain-coach, who has steered his team to three competition wins a row.

“It was definitely an important position we were trying to fill,” A Grade co-coach Trent Barnard said.

“A good half is important to steer the boys around the paddock and he’s a really good person too, which adds to the kind of football club we’re trying to be.

“He was really present at his first training session with us, and he got around the boys and they got around him, so I think it’s very exciting for us and the club.”

Mareeba Gladiators’ newest signing – Kaleb Eaton.

Bulls line up for the Kappa Cup match THE Mareeba Bulls will head into its first competitive match of the year at the 2025 Kappa Cup, with the Bulls travelling down the range to take on the Redlynch Cyclones in the knockout opening round cup game on Saturday.

The Bulls will head into the game at Calanna Park, Woree, with some confidence under the belt enjoying a first up 1-0 win for new coach Victor Madrid. The Bull also had a tight 1-0 over the Edge Hill Tigers last weekend in Mareeba in a pre-season friendly hit out.

Coach Madrid was happy with the hit out against the Tigers as a perfect trial game ahead of the Kappa cup opener.

“Edge Hill are a quality side and so this was a good first outing for the team to see where we’re at so far.

I’m happy how we’re progressing, but obviously still a fair bit of work to do,” Madrid said.

“Redlynch are another great side in our league full of young players who are willing to work and play of confidence. It will be important for us to get on top of them early in the game.”

The Bulls head down to Calanna Park this Saturday night, with a 6pm kick off.

The Express, Wednesday January 29 2025 PAGE 27

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PAGE 28 The Express, Wednesday January 29 2025

1.Drive Away Price* is the manufacturer’s recommended retail driveaway price (RDP) and includes the vehicle price 12 months registration, stamp duty, luxury car tax (if applicable), CTP insurance cost estimate (based on private purchaser with good driving record) and a recommend charge for dealer delivery. The quoted RDP is an estimate based on the postcode selected by you. 2. Available at participating Subaru Retailers only on selected models sold between 26/12/2024 - 28/02/2025 and delivered by 28/02/2025. Offer excludes fleet, government and rental buyers. 3-year free servicing is provided by Subaru Australia in the form of a 3-year Subaru Australia service plan, which includes 3-years complimentary roadside assistance. The 3-year service plan relates to scheduled logbook services only, up to and including Service ‘C’ (3 year or 45,000kms, whichever comes first) for Subaru Crosstrek variants. For more information, please visit https://www.subaru.com.au/service/plans/.

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