SHE started with three pigs to supply herself and her family with pork. Now, Kathy Rowling and her Hillbillie Hogs provide pork to customers all over North Queensland. The birth of her business was certainly unexpected, but in Kathy’s hindsight it sure looks like a blessing. See story Page 7
NEXT to names of countries like Barbados, Thailand and Venezuela, the little local town of Walkamin sounds a bit out of place, and rightly so.
But our very own FNQ Rum from Mt Uncle Distillery has been shortlisted alongside other renowned distilleries from those countries for Rum Producer of the Year at the prestigious International Wine and Spirit Competition (IWSC).
The IWSC is renowned for its rigorous judging process, which evaluates spirits based on taste, balance, finish, and value.
“This competition is also known as the ‘Oscars of the Spirits industry’ or it’s like the Olympics in a way, the Rum Producer Trophy is one of the most sought-after accolades,” Mt Uncle’s head distiller Mark Watkins said.
YUNGABURRA’S Afghanistan
“Being recognised on this level by the IWSC is incredibly rewarding for our team.
they serve,” Australian War Memorial director Matt Anderson said.
and fund-raising efforts for the Avenue of Honour.
Alongside the film was an Interactive Map Screen where visitors could enter an Australian postcode to search for a memorial in that region.
“We strive to craft rums that reflect the unique terroir of Far North Queensland, and this nomination reaffirms that our efforts are resonating on the world stage.”
Avenue of Honour is one of a select group of memorials from around the country to feature in the Australian War Memorial’s film, Place of Pride, shown last week to mark the opening of the national institution’s new south entrance.
The Avenue was one of 42 selected from the national Places of Pride Register of War Memorials, which lists some 12,000 memorial sites across Australia.
FNQ Rum is the only Australian brand shortlisted for the Rum Producer Trophy, “standing proudly” alongside global giants such as Foursquare Rum USA from Barbados, Sang Som Distillery from Thailand, and Ron Roble Viejo from Venezuela.
The film was show on a large screen on a loop at the new main entrance of the Australian War Memorial’s southern building expansion.
“This nomination cements FNQ Rum’s position as a leading force in the global rum industry and is a testament to years of hard work, dedication, and innovation,” Mark said.
The Yungaburra footage was taken in August last year, with members of the Cairns and Townsville chapters of the Patriots Australia Military Motorcycle Club providing some action at the picturesque site, while Friends of the Avenue formed a small party to join former serviceman John Hardy OAM at the memorial.
“It was lovely - very green, a beautiful morning,” he said.
“The boys rode up and down the Avenue and a drone was used to get some aerial shots. There was no fanfare, but it is always moving to be there.”
locally and internationally for their distinct flavours and exceptional quality”.
“We use sugar cane nectar to produce a more rich and sweet flavour and then we age the spirit in ex-Australian red wine barrels, so it combines these nice flavours well,” Mark said.
“Yungaburra’s Avenue of Honour joins stunning footage of local places of pride in cities and towns across Australia – from Thursday Island to communities in Tasmania, from Newcastle west to Broome, WA, and dozens of places in between,” Mr Anderson said.
for Afghanistan casualty Private Benjamin Chuck at Lake Tinaroo on 1 July 2010, at which more than 1000 people attended.
Later discussion of a “living avenue of trees” to represent every digger lost in the Afghanistan Campaign was taken up by Benjamin Chuck’s parents, Susan and Gordon, who began the push to build Australia’s first living memorial.
“Over 28 minutes, following an arc from dawn to dusk, ‘Places of Pride’ takes viewers on a journey around Australia, showcasing war memorials and commemorations of all kinds and the communities
“And we’re situated in a really nice area, the fluctuations in temperature with the hot days and cold nights helps the spirit age really well.”
FNQ Rum describes its rums as being crafted “from the rich volcanic soils and sugarcane of this unique tropical region” and “produces a range of rums that have been celebrated both
Speaking after the filming last year, spokesperson David “Robbo” Roberts said the bikers had travelled up from Cairns and Townsville for the shoot and had been invited by the War Memorial because of the Patriots’ long-time support
The Mt Uncle Distillery has also recently started distribution in the UK, adding to their many successes.
The memorials range from monuments, cenotaphs, sculptures and shrines to avenues of honour, walking tracks, gardens, swimming pools and murals.
This IWSC recognition follows
The Afghanistan Avenue of Honour was created following the funeral service
a stellar year for FNQ Rum, during which it has already secured multiple awards. At the World Rum Awards earlier this year, FNQ Rum took home two gold medals for its Platinum Cane Spirit and Iridium Agave Cask Finish, alongside being named World’s Best Sugarcane Spirit. Additionally, the brand’s commitment to quality was further highlighted with a silver medal at the International Wine and Spirit Competition for its Iridium X Rum. Mark will be travelling to London to attend the awards ceremony on 12 November.
After an outstanding response from all levels of government, the Defence Force, state and regional RSL bodies, business and community groups and private and corporate sponsors, the Afghanistan Avenue of Honour was officially opened to a crowd of more than 5,000 people in 2012.
The film can be seen at the Australian War Memorial or online at placesofpride.awm. gov.au/film
NEW offences and increased fines have been brought in by the State Government to crack down on feeding and interfering with crocodiles.
Two new offences have been introduced making it unlawful to unintentionally feed a crocodile by discarding food and remaining in close proximity to a crocodile.
AN additional $40,000 will have to be spent to switch the locations of two toilet blocks planned for the Prior’s Creek precinct, and not all Tablelands councillors are happy about it.
penalties for existing offences which aim to deter people from engaging in behaviours that pose a serious risk to public safety and animal conservation.
But Mayor Rod Marti said there were great benefits having the bigger facility down by the playground and it would provide greater access to people with a disability.
The on-the-spot fine for deliberately disturbing or feeding crocodiles has increased from $483 to $2580, with the maximum court-imposed fine increasing from $6452 to $26,615.
“It’s a really good decision and allows us to build the toilets within the timeline for the grant money,” he said.
Discarding food, including fish frames, scraps and bait, in a way that may attract crocodiles to a public place such as a boat ramp, jetty, pontoon or camping area can now result in an on-the-spot fine of $483 or a maximum court-imposed fine of $6,452.
Council was asked to approve the extra funds to change the locations which will mean the larger toilet block will be now located near the children’s playground and a smaller block built on Lot 1 Vernon Street – a block that the council hopes to sell or lease.
The risk is that if Lot 1 is sold or leased, the toilet block may have to be removed –something Cr Kevin Cardew finds “absurd”.
Knowingly remaining within close proximity to a crocodile that is on, or partly on, land can now result in an on-the-spot fine of $806 or a maximum courtimposed fine of $16,130.
“To me, that is just a gross waste of money and it makes no sense whatsoever,” he said.
This offence complements the existing “disturbing” offence which prevents people from approaching or pursuing a crocodile or driving a boat or vehicle within 10m of it.
He suggested other options including that council could take Lot 1 off the market and make it available for lease, or take an easement out over the toilet block area so it can’t be relocated or removed.
The on-the-spot fine for interfering with a crocodile trap has increased from $645 to $2580, with the maximum court-imposed fine increasing from $19,356 to $26,615.
Cr Dave Bilney entered the debate, saying council was not actually funding the construction of the toilet blocks.
But State Member for Hill Shane Knuth, who introduced the KAP’s Crocodile Control, Conservation, and Safety Bill 2024 into Parliament last month, slammed the new offences and fines as “nothing more than a band-aid fix”.
“The State Government has failed to manage the crocodile crisis for over a decade, and now it’s completely out of control,” he said.
“While there might be a small amount of cost for the switch, we’ve got to remember that this is grant funded money from the State, providing these toilets – we’re still getting very good assets and location is paramount and I think the switch will provide that,” he said.
Conservation officers now also have the power to direct people to move away from a crocodile to avoid any potential human-crocodile interactions.
“And just to do the exchange (switch the locations of the blocks), it’s going to cost an extra $40,000 just to swap it,” he added.
The government has also significantly increased
“Ask anyone who regularly fishes or uses our waterways - they’ll tell you the crocodile population has exploded. “This is a Northern Queensland issue, and it should be managed locally, not from over 1,800 km away in an ivory tower.”
Cr Cardew disagreed with the sentiment, saying it did not matter where the money was coming from, it was still $40,000 which was “a lot of money”.
Cr Annette Haydon and Cr Cardew voted against the decision.
By ANDREE STEPHENS
OPPOSITION to a decision by Mareeba Shire Council to hold a byelection for a new councillor was swift and plentiful last week, with a public outcry over the costs involved compared to installing the “next in line” from the 2024 poll.
Social media comments, a fledgling resident action group, and even a local businessman who wrote to the Local Government Minister Ann Leahy, decried the decision, arguing it was a waste of money.
Member for Cook David Kempton said he was flooded with calls from the community to take the matter to the Minister for review but he defended the council’s right to make the decision as per the Local Government Act 2009 (Qld) which states that if a vacancy occurs in the first 12 months after the last election, a council can decide whether a by-election for the position is held, or the vacancy be offered to the runner-up.
“I have spoken to the Mayor and the Minister and whilst I can understand why this has upset some people… it should be understood that the Minister for Local Government will not interfere in the lawful business of the council,” he said.
More than 40 posts erupted on Facebook sites on the same day as the council’s announcement, arguing that apart from the cost, the community had already had its say “therefore it wouldn’t be the choice of the councillors”; that it was less than a year since they voted; and that the move put into question “whose best interests were at play”.
Comments also flew on how the money could be better spent on roads, repairs and “green waste removal in a cyclone season”.
At a special meeting on 10 February, the council voted for the by-election, with the exception of Cr Nipper Brown.
The decision ruled out the next in line, Mladen Bosnic.
Council also requested the minister consider conducting a postal vote to bring down the cost of the byelection but no costs were available for councillors before the decision was made.
In a statement on Thursday, council said no financial analysis was available at the meeting because although the Electoral Commission of Queensland was “approached to obtain an estimated cost” it was not provided before the meeting.
“Given the request that a postal vote has been lodged with the Minister, it is unlikely the ECQ will provide an indicative cost until this decision is made,” the statement said.
A spokesman from the ECQ confirmed on Thursday that it had provided information regarding cost estimates and service delivery options to the council to inform its decision.
“The ECQ will provide advice to the
Minister for Local Government on the Council’s application for a full postal ballot, taking into account a range of considerations including cost,” a spokesperson said.
Mareeba Shire Mayor Angela Toppin last week defended the council’s decision to hold a by-election, saying it was made “by the belief that the community should decide who sits on council, not the councillors”.
She said Mr Bosnic was voted for by less than half the population and that the number of votes between the others next in line was very close, so it was appropriate a new poll be conducted.
Last week, Mr Bosnic said he was disappointed with the decision, but respected the council’s right to exercise that choice.
However, as well as cost implications, a by-election “ignored electoral fatigue”.
“We have had local government and state government elections in the past year and will be facing a federal election soon,” he said.
Mr Bosnic said he was proud of the result he had achieved last year,
receiving 5,319 votes behind former Cr Kevin Davies with 6,854 votes. Rather than seeing this as a reason to have a by-election, Mr Bosnic believed it was an argument for the runner-up option.
“I’m a glass half-full person,” he said.
“I was certainly not at the bottom of vote counts.”
He said four other contenders had closely followed behind him, so there was a good, strong choice of councillor options to fall back on if he had declined an offer.
“I think the spirit of the legislation is that you call a by-election when you go down the list and find few, if any, options – and there were several here,” he said.
“I suspect there was a hidden agenda - either someone wanted someone else, or someone doesn’t want me in there.”
Mr Bosnic said he had attended the special meeting, which had lasted about eight minutes, and said it had been inadequate in terms of debating details of the by-election proposal. The brevity also raised the question of livestreaming, and how the community should have been able to hold the special meeting accountable.
Mr Bosnic confirmed he would put his hand up for the councillor position in the upcoming by-election.
Former councillor Locky Bensted, who did not re-contest the 2024 poll to focus on his family and business, has been rumoured to be a contender.
On Friday, he told The Express he had “not confirmed yet” whether he would run for council. It had not been in his immediate plans, but the “very sad” circumstances that had brought on a vacancy so early had left him undecided.
• Continued Page 6
FORMER Tablelands Regional Council chief executive officer Gary Rinehart has initiated action against the organisation with the Queensland Industrial Relations Commission related to the circumstances under which he suddenly departed from the council late last year.
Mr Rinehart’s case was the subject of a conference held by the commission on 10 February which is scheduled to resume this Thursday, but no details have been made public.
It is understood Mr Rinehart still had nine months to go on his contract when council staff were suddenly emailed the news on 11 October 2024 that he had “concluded his term”.
The Express immediately contacted TRC that day but was provided no information until five days later, through a media statement which simply echoed the phrase that Mr Rinehart had “concluded his term”.
The Express has since sent questions to Mayor Rod Marti to try to find out on ratepayers’ behalf what the circumstances were around the CEO’s departure.
When questioned as to whether a payout was in play, Mayor Marti responded in an email that: “As per the minutes, Councillors have resolved to delegate authority to the Mayor to negotiate, finalise and execute all documents necessary.”
Asked whether Mr Rinehart had left of his own volition or whether council had asked him to leave, Mayor Marti replied: “That is not correct and such agreements between the parties are always confidential.”
In November, former councillor David Clifton raised concerns about the CEO’s departure, saying the whole situation was “concerning”.
“That Tablelands Regional Council is recruiting its third CEO in four years is very concerning,” he said at the time.
“The community is still in the dark about what actually happened to prompt Mr Rinehart’s decision and whether he resigned or was ‘pushed’ like the previous two incumbents.”
The Express contacted TRC to obtain comment regarding the Industrial Relations case but the organisation declined to comment, with Acting CEO Hiliary Jackson saying “this is an ongoing matter between TRC and a former employee”.
By ANDREE STEPHENS
THEY’VE seen great technology changes, tools morphing from spanners and screwdrivers to electrical gadgetry, and travelled further and further afield as their region’s service base expanded, but for Sam Musso, Russell Boardman and Barry Ersnt, the Mareeba Ergon Energy depot is home to a four decades-long working life they’d never change.
Celebrating their 40th anniversary recently, as they do every year, the three men explained why they’ve stayed put for so long and will continue to do so until they retire.
“Baz and I started on the same day on 22 January 1985,” Russell says. “Sam started a year before us in 1984.”
“Sam’s the tribal elder,” Barry adds.
“Yea, we’re the Face of Ergon, of course - what a terrible thought,” Sam says amid laughter.
“We’re the brains trust,” quips Barry.
The three lifelong friends all met on the job and their instant and lasting rapport is immediately obvious. Sam was an apprentice electrical fitter mechanic, Russ and Baz were trainee linesmen.
“Once you’re in with a crew, everyone seems to work together. You just evolve,” Barry adds.
“You become a close-knit group,” Sam says. “Most of us do the same thing and you’re always looking out for each other, which is a big thing for us, safety-wise.”
Connections grew stronger
when both Barry and Russell later took up apprenticeships to train as electricians and all three worked side by side. Although Barry says he took longer to decide on the dual trade.
“I stayed on the dark side for a good few years, just as a ‘liney’,” he says of the old rivalry between linesmen and electricians.
(Linesmen set up the power posts and string the lines, and electricians follow and energise the pole.)
Each of them has remained under Ergon’s wing and taken advantage of the opportunities as the company grew.
“We’ve drifted into different roles over the years, the first 10-15 years of my life was in the field, then there were opportunities to progress into a supervisory role,” Sam said.
Russell now works in the substations field, and Barry is deployed across the region.
But the mateship extends well beyond work, with all three men and they’re families sharing many memories over the years.
“Yes, we all hang out socially, weddings, christenings, engagement parties, 21sts - talk about rent-a-crowd,” Barry says chuckling.
“Our kids all grew up together; Sam’s son and my son are best mates,” Russell adds.
“We had an indoor cricket team that was going for almost 20 years, it only stopped because the indoor cricket closed down,” Barry adds as laughter bursts from the men.
“We were the oldies, running around, us 40-year-olds!”
They have also become Ergon’s Three Wise Monkeys pin-ups over the years, with an annual picture taken of them posing with the “Hear no evil, See no evil, Speak no evil” gestures.
The only other person to have stuck around for as long is their boss, Far North Area Manager Charlie Casa. He will have clocked 40 years next year, they say.
After that, there is an eightyear gap before the next group of workers run up their years. It
is a longevity rarely seen in other organisations these days.
For Charlie’s part, he says the guys are “great ambassadors for Ergon in the community and priceless mentors to the younger generations”.
“They have so many runs on the board and life lessons to share, having worked through some of the most challenging events, including severe tropical cyclones, storms and floods,” he says.
Atherton was another, and there was no interaction between the two. Except during storms and cyclones,” Russell says.
All boards then combined to form Ergon Energy (which has since come under the Energy Queensland network).
teams after a natural disaster.
“When you see the dramas and the issues (a crisis) has caused a customer - yes, we do the job, but we also have empathy, you feel for them, they’ve lost everything,” Sam says. “We work with communities.”
“I won’t say we’re all the same,” Russell says of the various depots. “All those boards have still got their own idiosyncrasies, but we’re a lot closer together than we used to be, with work and standards, and such.”
“At the end of the day we are great mates, and that camaraderie has seen us through highs and lows over four decades.”
So, what is this mindset at the Mareeba depot which keeps them around?
With the merger they now get to see “a lot of countryside” across a “massive geographical area” that takes in Cape York Peninsula, Saibai, Badu and Mornington islands, down to Palm Island.
“That’s why we like the job,” Barry explains further. “The satisfaction that comes from turning up with five to 50 blokes and joining 200, 300, 400 people up from Brisbane, is amazing. The [customers] see we’re actually doing stuff for them, returning power to 1500 people in a week.
The men say while the depot has changed in many ways it has always stayed at heart, a place where an electrician can practice his trade.
“For me, I’m from Innisfail. And when you go down there and see people from school, teachers, family or whatever, you turn up and you see the change in their eyes when you arrive. That brings its own rewards.”
First established under the Far North Queensland Electricity Board, Mareeba was a stand-alone depot with its own manager, as was Atherton and the other depots throughout the region.
“Mareeba was one area,
The bigger network meant bigger and better equipment. They chuckle over the “old days” of driving around in Dodge trucks, or “internationals”, with no air-con or power steering, water carried in a canvas bag on the front, and a “gas bottle to boil the billy”.
It also means they are part of an impressive deployment when called on to join hundreds of
And surely after 40 years they all have a few cheeky work anecdotes about each other they would like to share?
“What happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas,” Sam says, with another roar of laughter from the three wires men.
By ANDREE STEPHENS
DEAD or dying trees discovered within the heritage-listed Arboretum in Atherton last year were poisoned, the Department of the Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation has confirmed.
The trees were spotted in the central area of the forest in September 2024 by a passerby and a member of the Friends of the Atherton Arboretum community group, who took photographs through the property fence and alerted the department.
“Results of samples taken from the Atherton Arboretum show the trees were poisoned,” a department spokesperson said last Thursday.
“Our investigation is ongoing, and anyone with information is asked to contact us on 1300 130 372. Information can be provided anonymously.”
The department executed a search warrant on the property in October 2024, after it was refused entry to the site. Plant and soil samples were taken for laboratory analysis, to determine if any offences had been committed under the Queensland Heritage Act 1992.
It had also issued a stop work order to the property owners to prevent any activities being carried out on the site “that would destroy or substantially reduce the cultural heritage significance of trees and other vegetation onsite”.
The stop work order has been extended until 25 February 2025, the spokesperson said.
The maximum penalty for breaching a stop order is $2.74 million for an individual or over $13 million for a corporation.
The Atherton Arboretum was entered into Queensland’s heritage register in August 2024 following a community campaign to preserve the former CSIRO site on Maude Street in Atherton. It was deemed a living collection of nearly 900 plantings, representing more
than 400 plant species from the Wet Tropics region, some of which were classified as rare or endangered.
The site was sold privately in 2023, with a covenant clause included in the tender for sale that the arboretum was being assessed by the Queensland Heritage Council for heritage listing.
The department spokesperson said further information on the poison, the number and species of trees affected, and any action being taken, was not available as the investigation was still ongoing.
A spokesperson for the Friends of the Atherton Arboretum, Gemma Horner, said she wasn’t surprised at the results given the recent history of the site.
The Friends’ association was formed in September 2021, when it learned the Federal Government was selling the CSIRO site. Ms Horner was one of the authors of a proposal to list the property as a significant heritage site, following the Tablelands Regional Council decision not to support such an application.
The group had been active in alerting the department to activity they believed threatened the Arboretum, including the bulldozing of a stand of trees before the heritage listing was announced in June last year, and the suspected poisoned trees spotted in September 2024, after the listing was announced.
“We continue to keep an eye out,” Ms Horner said.
“I have to say, the Queensland Heritage Department is extremely responsive and takes action as quickly as possible.
“But I understand the constraints (the department) has in providing more detail, given it is a (potential) criminal case.
“All will come out eventually.”
ATHERTON couple Lachlan Rogers and June Sheppard will be the faces of the new Cairns Super Carnival races after they were crowned Ambassadors last week.
Known for their seamless blend of classic couture and contemporary flair, the duo will be front and centre for fashion for the new nine-day event, which merges Far North Queensland’s biggest race days into one big festival.
Lachlan, a paramedic, and his wife June, a teacher and graphic designer, are
well-known regular racegoers who have won various Fashion on the Fields events over recent years.
They will be promoting the Cairns Super Carnival over coming months, presiding over three days of vibrant Fashions on the Field competitions, and will judge this year’s most stylish entrants.
The inaugural Great Northern Brewing Co. Cairns Super Carnival, announced by the Cairns Jockey Club last week, merges
the Red Beret Hotel Cairns Cup, and the Great Northern Brewing Co. Cairns Amateur Cup to provide marquee races from Friday, 15 August to Saturday, 23 August at Cannon Park.
It will also host high-profile social events, including the Super Carnival launch, Cairns Cup Live Barrier Draw, High Tea Party, and the Ladbrokes Sportsman Luncheon and Calcutta. Tickets will be on sale in the coming weeks.
• From Page 3
He supported the postal vote decision as it would cost “next to nothing”, and the by-election would provide an opportunity for some quite vocal members of the community to put their “money where their mouth is”.
Reactions throughout the week included former councillor Bob Neate who, along with others, is seeking to establish the Mareeba Shire Ratepayers’ and Residents’ Association.
Describing the decision as “exceptionally puzzling at best”, Mr Neate said there were a lot of questions over the decision in favour of an election by postal vote.
“Surely, they could have taken the most obvious, clearer,
fairer and most cost-effective procedure of appointing the next successful in the poll for councillor, Mladin Bosnic,” he said.
“This new council is not even through the first 12 months of a four-year term, so surely ratepayers and residents deserve a more common-sense process.”
Local businessman Greg Williams wrote to Minister Leahy, asking that, as a matter of urgency, she advise the council to “simply appoint” Mr Bosnic.
“Mladen is a fine upstanding citizen who is involved in many civic activities including being the head of Crime Stoppers. This would save an enormous amount of money and save resources,” he wrote.
THE number of straying animals in the Mareeba Shire in the final quarter of 2024 was almost half compared to the same time the previous year.
A quarterly report covering October-December showed that only 67 straying animals were recorded in the three months compared to 125 in 2023, and 92 in 2022.
Overall, local laws officers dealt with 371 general complaints during the quarter, compared to 405 in 2023, and 358 in 2022.
However, there were increases in categories including: dogs restrained for collection (38) compared to 19 in 2023; a doubling of dangerous aggressive dogs with four recorded compared to two in 2023; 12 missing and lost and found dogs, compared to nine in 2023; and 146 enquiries, unregistered, hygiene, unleashed, compared to 117 in 2023.
Animal attacks remained the same for the quarter in 2024 and 2023 at 32 complaints, compared to only 18 in 2022.
Other categories to be lower last year than the previous year were: barking complaints down to 35 compared to 50 in October-December 2023; council traps at 24 compared to 32 in 2023; cruelty down to six compared to 10 in 2023; and complaints of too many animals down to seven, compared to nine in 2023.
The first house as part of the PeoplePurposePlace project at Malanda is nearing completion.
EXCITEMENT is building around the
Ginn Road project in Malanda, with the PeoplePurposePlace project being transformed from a building site into a real home.
The project is the first of its kind in the region and seeks to offer like-minded people a way to live with each other to provide a different type of social housing.
After material delivery delays late last year – and a well-earned break over Christmas – PeoplePurposePlace is
pushing forward with its first housing initiative on the Atherton Tablelands.
“With the pilot project nearing completion, the vision is becoming clearer for the community,” one of the project’s founders, Christine Doan, said.
“It’s no longer just a concept, this project is set to make a tangible impact.”
When completed, which is expected by next month, the building will provide stable housing for five individuals while enriching the community’s social
and cultural fabric.
“End-of-year site visits in 2024 offered a fascinating glimpse into the progress, with visitors thrilled to see the project come to life,” Ms Doan said.
“The transformation has been inspiring, and excitement continues to grow.”
Applications are now open for the very first intake of residents. If anyone is interested, go to www. peoplepurposeplace. com.au/about-us-people-purpose-place/
Starting a free-range piggery at 50 years old is a dream shared by few, including Kathy Rowling, whose small operation “snowballed” into the Hillbillie Hogs pork supplying business of today. And she wouldn’t change it for the world. She thoroughly loves taking care of her pigs, who are all named (some after her friends). She tells Konnor Furber how it all came about.
FROM growing pigs for family and close friends to servicing customers all over Far North Queensland, the seemingly inescapable birth of Hillbillie Hogs has sent owner Kathy Rowling on a purposedriven journey.
Kathy is the founder and sole operator of the farrow-tofinisher operation of free-range pigs in Dimbulah.
She has two boars and a small number of sows that regularly breed to produce piglets that are grown for market.
She is no stranger to pigs. Kathy and her family used to raise their own for eating and when they stopped doing so one year, she tried her luck with store-bought pork. It was “that bloody terrible” she didn’t eat pork for about three years.
In 2020 she decided to buy some pigs from a farmer she knew had good stock, with the aim of once again supplying quality pork for her family and selling off some weaner pigs to help pay for the feed bill.
She started off with just two sows and a boar. After the first few litters some friends asked if she could grow some pigs for them, and then a few more friends asked, and then a few more, until Kathy’s hobby had quickly “snowballed” into Hillbillie Hogs.
“It turned into Hillbillie Hogs because the customer demand was right there from the get-go,” she said.
“You’ve just got to love it, otherwise it would probably suck as a job,” she laughed. “But I love that I get to stay home on the farm, that’s the main thing.
“I enjoy handpicking my breeding sows, getting to see the piglets be born and it being up to me how well they grow.
“It’s definitely not a plain process, so you’re learning new things every day.”
Kathy now services customers in the local area
with whole and half pigs and even customers as far out as Laura, Croydon, Hughenden and Townsville.
She also supplies online butcher shop Butcher 2 Go and premade-meal delivery business, Green Pantry Kitchen, both based in Townsville.
She prides herself on supporting local and family businesses such as Bones Knob Butchery, Rocky Creek Abattoir, Cleall’s Butchery and Russo’s Quality Meats.
“The thing I really like about it, is that the whole process supports small family businesses, from the grain growers and the feed mill to our abattoirs and our butchers.
“We get our animal health products from TGT, Butcher 2 Go is operated by a mum and a dad, and they have four or five little kids helping them.
“So, I think it’s pretty cool that there aren’t any large companies really involved in it. I think supporting local businesses is really important.”
Hillbillie Hogs is a farrow to finisher operation, meaning Kathy oversees everything from the mating of her pigs, the farrowing of piglets, then the weaning and growing stages until they are ready for processing, or selling, at 16 weeks old.
A pig will produce approximately two litters per year, with a gestation period of almost precisely three months, three weeks and three days.
Once a pig is ready for processing, Kathy will have them delivered to one of the local abattoirs where customers will then select a butcher shop to pick up the cuts from.
Free-range pigs have great differences in quality to those raised in large-scale piggeries.
“What people tell me is that they can notice a better taste, a better texture, and more firmness,” she said.
“I think that comes down
“You’ve just got to love it, otherwise it would probably suck as a job.”
to them having the freedom to run around and develop their muscles.
“I also think it’s the way you handle them. If you’ve got a quiet, calm pig, it’s going to be good eating.
“Similar to cattle, if they’re stressed and exerting themselves unnecessarily, they’re probably going to have tough meat.”
Kathy works with a nutritionist to optimise the growth of her pigs and ensures
her feeds are made locally with as much local grain as possible.
“So, we have a custom mix to feed all our pigs, depending on which paddocks they’re in at the time,” she said.
“High quality feed, high protein, and making sure they are fed enough are the most important things to growing a good pig.
“There’s an old saying, ‘you can’t fatten a hog on market day’, so they need to have good genetics, good nutrition,
plus all those other little things added in to get a good peak.”
Kathy uses Duroc breeding sows and even names all of her pigs. Her boars include a Large White cross Berskhire, named Wilbur, and a purebred Duroc, called Vautin (He’s red she said, just like Fatty).
“I find these breeds create a good cross for up here because if the pigs are too white they’ll get sunburnt and get heat stress.
Kathy’s vision for the
future of Hillbillie Hogs is to sustain its current size and focus on a good product, even encouraging people to consider the idea of using a whole animal for consumption.
“Realistically, I’d like to stay about where I am now, because it’s all I can do on my own.
“It’s about maintaining that vision and wanting that consistent end product, and I think I’m finally getting there.
“But what I would love to able to do is have a butcher, something like Butcher 2 Go, that’s closer to here and sells the whole pig.
“People still aren’t up with the concept of eating the whole animal. Like people will say ‘I want ribs’, but there’s only two lots of ribs on a pig and then there’s the rest of the animal leftover.
“I’d also like to encourage people to go to their local butcher and start looking locally for your fruit and veggies.
“We live in a fruit bowl and we have everything up here so I’d like to see more of that happening.”
A DEADLY soil disease is taking its toll in the region, with two people dying since 1 January and 30 cases recorded.
Tropical Public Health Services director Dr Jacqui Murdoch said this was a higher-thanaverage number of cases of melioidosis for this time of the year.
“Melioidosis is a serious disease found in ground water and soil, and it can cause death in up to 20% of treated cases,” she said.
“Early recognition and treatment are vital.”
Dr Murdoch said the disease occurred when skin abrasions or wounds came into contact with wet soil or water contaminated by the bacteria Burkholderia pseudomallei.
“Melioidosis is very uncommon in healthy adults, and rarely seen in children, but can occasionally occur in people with diabetes, kidney problems, lung problems and people on medication that lowers their immune system,” she said.
“Symptoms of acute Melioidosis may include fever, cough and difficulty breathing; the effects can be very severe and often require hospitalisation for antibiotic treatment.
“Sometimes the disease presents as superficial skin infections or abscesses in various part of the body. If anyone has noticed non-healing wounds or persistent fevers over several weeks, then they should be seen by their GP and checked for this infection, as it can require prolonged antibiotic treatment.”
Dr Murdoch urged those at risk of serious illness, such as people with diabetes, kidney problems, lung problems and people on medication that lowers their immune system, to take precautions to avoid infection.
“Try not to work outside if it’s raining, control your diabetes, and try to reduce your alcohol intake,” she said.
“When you go outside, wear protective footwear and gloves, wash your skin thoroughly after exposure to soil or muddy water, and wear a mask if you’re using a hose or high-pressure cleaner around soil.”
LOCALS and tourists are being warned to take care at waterfalls and swimming holes after several fatal incidents in the past 12 months and recent flooding across the north.
“With recent rainfall increasing the flow and force of local catchments, the risks are increased,”
Queensland Fire and Rescue Chief Superintendent Adam Gwin said.
“Many of these incidents can be avoided by staying on designated paths and boardwalks, swimming within designated areas and being aware of water levels and currents.”
Key to safety was keeping an eye out for friends
and family when swimming and talking to visitors who may not be familiar with freshwater systems.
Inland waterways were not patrolled by lifeguards, and the risks involved with swimming at these areas could be difficult to identify.
Tips for staying safe at waterfalls:
• Adhere to all safety signs and warnings, stay behind barriers and fences.
• Don’t swim alone.
• Do not dive into swimming holes, they are often shallow and hard to see the bottom.
• Beware of submerged objects, particularly after heavy rain.
• Observe the current and undertows before swimming, and swim in still water where possible.
• Do not swim after heavy rain, as rushing water moving downstream can be dangerous.
• Avoid climbing slippery surfaces and rock ledges.
• Plan your trip and check the weather forecast and tell someone where you are going, and when you are expected to return, and
• Pack a first aid kit, it may take some time for emergency services to reach you if you are in a remote area.
NOMINATIONS are open for the 2025 Queensland Reconciliation Awards, with businesses, schools, local sporting clubs, councils and government agencies encouraged to apply.
The awards are a chance to recognise reconciliation programs that improve social relations, enhance health outcomes and support employment for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.
Since the inception of the awards in 2003, more than 100 inspiring initiatives and partnerships that support a more inclusive Queensland have been recognised.
In addition, the Premier’s Reconciliation Award will be presented to a nominated initiative that has demonstrated innovative strategies and exceptional outcomes toward advancing reconciliation in Queensland.
Organisations that are helping to strengthen ties with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures can win a share of $30,000 as part of this year’s Queensland Reconciliation Awards.
The five nomination categories include:
• Business - for initiatives focused on building
economic growth, employment, skills and career development, workplace inclusion and diversified opportunities through reconciliation in Queensland.
• Community - for initiatives focused on improving community relations and engagement and strengthening social cohesion through reconciliation in Queensland.
• Education - for educational initiatives focused on championing reconciliation through cultural capability and knowledge sharing in communities and educational institutions in Queensland.
• Health and Wellbeing - for initiatives focused on closing the gap and improving equity and access and First Nations health and wellbeing outcomes in Queensland.
• Partnership - for initiatives consisting of two or more organisations with an equal and mutually beneficial relationship and input into the initiatives objectives and outcomes fostering reconciliation in Queensland.
Nominations will close on Monday, 10 March. For information, go to www.qld.gov.au/about/ events-awards-honours/awards/
By ROBYN HOLMES
ACCUSATIONS have been levelled at Tablelands Regional Council over an upgrade to the approaches of a bridge on Hemmings Lane which, landowners say, will only benefit an expanding commercial operation that has been at odds with its neighbours for the past three years.
The council is undertaking a $425,000 upgrade to the approaches of the bridge but the works are being questioned by property owners living along Hemmings Lane at Upper Barron who say other roads such as Plath Road and its bridge should be upgraded as a matter of priority.
Landowner Jeff Strazzeri, whose family have lived on their Hemmings Lane property for more than 40 years, has written to the council demanding answers and accusing the council of misusing public funds to benefit the controversial Old Mates Farm (OMF) operation.
Last year, OMF owners Tony Freeman and Louise Livingstone won an appeal in the Planning and Environmental Court against a decision by TRC that would have allowed them to build new facilities on their property but not to increase the number of visitors and banning any day visitors.
The court decision came with conditions that OMF upgrade and seal 120m of Hemmings Lane at their own cost, installing mirrors to improve sight lines, installing signage to instruct vehicles to give way at the bridge and vegetation slashing.
The road upgrade has not yet
begun by OMF, but council has embarked on the upgrade to the bridge approaches.
Council rejects any suggestion the works are being done to benefit OMF, saying the works were generated from a councillor request in 2020, and then included in the 10-year Capital Plan by resolution of council.
“This councillor witnessed a truck with roof trusses attempting (and failing) to cross the bridge. Trucks shipping cattle also cannot cross, or have trouble negotiating the approaches to the bridge,” Infrastructure Services general manager Mark Vis said.
“The intent is to improve truck access and is unrelated to any property development applications.”
Mr Strazzeri has also questioned the council about why Plath Road and its bridge have not received similar attention to Hemmings Lane.
“Hemmings Lane already underwent major roadworks in 2024, yet additional DRFA (disaster)-funded works are now planned,” he said.
“If DRFA funding is only for restoring roads to pre-event condition, why is Hemmings Lane receiving multiple rounds
MILLIONS of dollars are being lost to banana growers in the region prompting calls from the Australian Banana Growers’ Council for urgent action to improve infrastructure connecting Far North Queensland to the south.
“Weather resilient road corridors are crucial not only for those of us who live and work in the Far North, but also for maintaining the flow of essential goods, including bananas,” council chair Leon Collins said.
“Given we are seeing more frequent and intense weather events, we are calling for State and Federal Governments to prioritise upgrading these important freight routes.”
Mr Collins, who farms in Tully and Lakeland, said the banana industry was losing approximately $20 million per week (farm gate value) and $37 million per week (retail value) while the Bruce Highway, and alternate routes, were cut.
“The success of the banana industry – and the regional livelihoods it sustains – depends
on robust, dependable transport networks,” Mr Collins said. In the 2022-23 financial year, banana production was worth more than $583 million. Around 91% of Australian households purchase bananas.
“I know there are many Australian banana lovers who are waiting to see what this means for their weekly shop,” Mr Collins added.
“We acknowledge the transport challenges will mean some supply gaps, but as the situation is still unfolding, we’re still figuring out exactly what this will look like.
“Road closures shouldn’t stand in the way of delivering Australia’s favourite fruit.
“Our dedicated banana growers in North Queensland are facing challenges, and need your support. Keep buying bananas where you can – your choice makes a real difference to local farmers and helps keep Australian agriculture strong.”
of work while other roads are ignored?
“Why has TRC prioritised repeated investment in this road while more dangerous roads like Plath Road remain neglected?”
Mr Vis said Hemmings Lane had been graded as a part of council’s annual maintenance grading program and had also been the subject of DRFA funding due to damage caused by a weather event between December 2022 and April 2023.
“Appropriate treatment was included in the TRC funding submission and was approved by the Queensland Reconstruction
Authority (QRA),” he said.
“Plath Road was included in TRC’s REPA Submission for the DRFA event Tropical Cyclone Jasper, Associated Rainfall and Flooding, 13-28 December 2023. These works have not yet been assessed by the QRA and are subject to their review and approval.
“TRC acknowledges Plath Road requires maintenance works regardless of whether or not the works are approved for DRFA funding, and has proposed Plath Road in future years of TRC bitumen reseal program.”
Mr Strazzeri has also raised
concerns about the removal of “critically endangered habitat” within the road reserve along Hemmings Lane for the bridge’s southern approach works.
“This area includes vegetation classified as critically endangered habitat, as indicated by the Vegetation Management Supporting Map. Clearing this habitat poses a severe threat to biodiversity and contravenes the intent of the Vegetation Management Act 1999, which seeks to protect Queensland’s most vulnerable ecosystems,” he said.
“The council is prioritising the interests of a single individual over the community and the environment. Critically endangered habitat is set to be destroyed, and ratepayers - who gain nothing from this projectare the ones footing the bill,” he said.
“It is deeply concerning that TRC is willing to misuse public funds and exploit community resources for private gain. The council’s decisionmaking process in this matter reflects a lack of transparency, accountability, and respect for the community it is supposed to serve.”
Council says there is protection under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation (EPBC) Act for all known patches of Mabi Forest and that it will not proceed with finalising a design or any construction works until the outcome of the EPBC referral and necessary approvals.
MAREEBA Hospital was one of eight facilities in regional and rural Queensland that had to send birthing mothers to larger facilities because of staff shortages, and it and Atherton Hospital were at risk of temporary closures, according to a new review by the state government.
The critical assessment into regional maternity services from July 2023 to January 2025 found workforce shortages rose to between 11.5% and 17.91% for key maternity professions across regional Queensland.
A statement from Premier David Crisafulli said the report identified staffing vacancies of up to 14.2% in obstetrics, 17.9% in anaesthetics, and 11.5% in midwifery, with some facilities experiencing vacancy rates far above this.
“The lack of skilled maternity staff had led to rural hospitals sending birthing mothers to larger facilities, often hundreds of kilometres away,” the statement said.
The assessment also considered facilities most at risk of temporary closure of birthing services resulting from
workforce shortages, which included both Mareeba and Atherton Hospitals. They are classified as Level 3 of the Clinical Services Capability Framework (CSCF) Maternity Module which reported a gap of 9.4FTE or 14.2% vacancy rate.
Cairns and Hinterland Hospital and Health Service acting chief executive Janelle
Matic said planned births at Mareeba Hospital were “occasionally diverted to Cairns Hospital or Atherton Hospital for short periods due to obstetric medical staff being on unexpected sick leave or fatigue leave”.
“During these periods, women presenting to Mareeba Hospital for birthing are assessed, and referred to either Cairns Hospital or Atherton Hospital if required,”
Ms Matic said.
“Women with an expected due date within the seven days of the reduced service period, are notified of these brief service reductions.”
However, the hospital was “pleased to report that Mareeba Hospital has recruited two more part-time obstetricians who will commence this month”.
FOUR local youth have successfully completed a 22-week conservation traineeship, helping maintain 280 kilometres of bike trails and planting 3,000 trees across the Tablelands.
The Tablelands Trail Builders Program, led by Vocational Partnerships Group in collaboration with Tablelands Regional Council and Tablelands Cycle Sports, is a paid traineeship initiative combining handson learning, employability skills training, and formal qualifications in conservation and ecosystem management.
“We are proud of our first group of trainees, they’ve become confident, skilled workers and have made a significant impact on local environmental projects,” VPG CEO Maryanne Tranter said.
“Their contributions to the park, our community, and their futures have been outstanding.”
As the trainees graduate, applications are
LOCATION: Rail Trail and Bicentennial Lakes
DATE: Sunday March 2nd @ 7.30am
CONTACT: Tom Braes 0488 591 318
now open for the next cohort.
“We’re eager to give more young people the chance to build skills and kick-start careers in hands-on, outdoor industries,” Ms Tranter said.
Throughout the program, the trainees worked alongside Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service rangers, TREAT nursery volunteers, and local environmental contractors, gaining expert skills and building industry connections.
In total, they maintained 280 kilometres of trails including drainage preparation for wet season conditions, planted over 3,000 trees in local restoration projects, cleared 1.5 acres of invasive plants at Wongabel State Forest, and removed 28 shopping trolleys from Priors Creek town link trail head.
The graduates are now seeking employment opportunities in parks, landscaping, and conservation across the
Tablelands, with VPG providing ongoing support for their workforce transition.
“While several of the trainees have promising job opportunities lined up, we’re calling on local businesses to consider these skilled young workers for relevant roles,” VPG Tablelands trail builder project supervisor Tim Barker said.
“They’ve put in the hard yards, gained solid skills, and have the qualifications to back it up. If local businesses are interested in meeting the graduates or discussing potential opportunities, we encourage them to get in touch with us.”
VPG is now recruiting the next cohort of trainees for the program, funded through the Skilling Queenslanders for Work initiative.
Interested candidates aged 17-24 from the Mareeba-Tablelands region can find out more at www.vpginc.com.au/work-with-us/ or call 4091 6411. Applications close 24 February.
Modern, state of the art classrooms, day schooling and boarding facilities for boys and girls.
Our curriculum provides academic and vocational pathways, enabling the best possible employment opportunities. Your child will enjoy small class sizes, individual student attention for maximum outcomes, including sporting and cultural opportunities.
Our college is founded on the basis that no child will be denied a Catholic education based on financial hardship. Generous fee concessions apply to holders of means-tested concession cards and those with a genuine inability to pay.
A REPORT to Tablelands
Regional Council has raised the eyebrows of Cr Kevin Cardew who has questioned why the full council would need to give its approval to source an electrician and a scaffolder for a job being done by the organisation.
The report asked for council’s approval to source the two tradespeople to undertake the replacement of the roof for the Lakeside public amenities which was one of two jobs that council will now do inhouse after Cr Cardew objected to using contractors which would have cost $364,000.
When the report seeking to use two tradespeople on the Lakeside job came to council’s January meeting, Cr Cardew was taken aback and questioned why it had been allowed to come forward to the full council.
“I can’t express strongly enough my disappointment in this report,” he said.
“I cannot understand why a report needs to come back to council asking for permission to get an electrician to disconnect power to a project that we are doing in-house – it’s a given.
“If you need a specialised trade (person) to do a project that we’ve approved, then you just engage the electrician to disconnect the power or someone to put up the scaffolding.
“I just can’t understand why this report is coming back to us asking for permission – do we do this when we’ve got to change a light bulb in the building and we’ve got to get an electrician to
turn the power off?”
Mayor Rod Marti defended officers, saying that the report had been triggered because council had made it clear at the December meeting it did not want the project going to external contractors.
“Because we haven’t got those resources or capacity so council officers have done the right thing, they’ve come back and said ‘look, we still need to get some contractors’ and they’re seeking our approval because they didn’t want to contravene the previous motion,” Mayor Marti said.
“You can disagree with it or don’t like it but you can’t say it’s wrong. Council officers have done the right thing.”
“So Mr Mayor, if that’s the case, then all the projects that we approve in our budget that have an electrical component to it, do we have to have a report come back to council asking if we can turn the power off?” Cr Cardew retorted.
Infrastructure Services Mark Vis said the report was necessary given the specific instruction officers had been given by council at the last meeting.
“With all those other projects, we don’t get a specific instruction from council to use internal resources only to deliver those – this is a specific situation because we have got a very specific resolution from council that limits our capability to use external resources to deliver the project, that’s the difference,” he said.
POLICE are trying to locate the owners of the following items which were recovered on the Atherton Tablelands.
The items are:
• Black Avanti Giro Bike – located on Wednesday 12 February on Tate Road, Tolga, QP2500256441.
• Gold ring – located on Monday 23 December at Gallery 5 on Herberton Street Atherton, QP2402220616.
• Green pushbike – located on Wednesday, 4 December near Minna Street Herberton, QP2402082064, and
• Black Motorola phone – located on Saturday 18 January at Woolworths, Atherton, QP2500225982.
If any of these items belong to you, please contact the Atherton Police Property office during business hours on 4091 9800 and quote the relevant QP number.
You will need proof of ownership to collect your property.
AS plantings continue to revitalise Byrnes Street and surrounds, some quick-minded locals are also getting in on the act.
Commenting on infrastructure works at the last council meeting, Deputy Mayor Lenore Wyatt had a chuckle as she admired the latest garden bed preparation near Granite Creek bridge.
“In relation to doing up the gardens, visually and for safety of our staff and our road users, I think it’s great, especially as we’re starting to see the work coming out of Granite Creek as you head to the roundabout, there is a marked difference there,” she said.
“I have seen some secret plantings, though,” she added.
“People have been planting corn in (the beds). Yes, there’s corn growing.
“I look forward to seeing what’s going to be going in there and look forward to the progression of the other gardens.”
In other parks news, council heard the upgrade to the northern Bicentennial Lakes would begin early this year.
In an attempt to improve lines of communication, debate, and information between the Mareeba Shire community, a number of residents are seeking to create an active Mareeba Shire Ratepayers’ and Residents’ Association. To function best, such an organisation also can take particular suggestions and proposals and present them in a professional, clear and concise manner for formal Council consideration and where possible, open and frank and decision making.
If you are interested in taking part in and supporting the establishment and activities of a MAREEBA SHIRE RATEPAYERS’ AND RESIDENTS’ ASSOCIATION.
Please complete the following before February 28 and send to below:
AUSTRALIA’S agricultural sector is well placed for the year ahead despite expected rising global geopolitical tensions, an underperforming Asian economy resulting in low consumer confidence and a volatile energy market, Rabobank says in its newly-released annual outlook.
The agribusiness banking specialist says major agricultural sectors look set to once again move confidently into the coming year, albeit with some challenges ahead.
The report says prices of livestock commodities are expected to “fare well” in 2025 and grain prices also hold upside potential. And this is reflected in a forecast rise in the RaboResearch Australia Commodity Price Index for 2025.
Though prices of most agricultural commodities are not expected to reach the highs or lows seen over the past three years, the Outlook said.
Report lead author, RaboResearch general manager Australia and New Zealand Stefan Vogel, said price dynamics were likely to vary per sector.
“The beef price outlook is one of modest optimism, given fundamentals leave some room for minor upside movement,” he said.
“RaboResearch hold the view that in 2025 we may see stronger demand from feedlots for feeder cattle. The other positive factor for the sector is that we anticipate higher live export volumes in 2025.”
Farm input prices globally, both for fertilisers and plant protection products, are forecast to move sideways to slightly higher, the report said.
“Global urea and phosphate prices in Australian dollar terms have moved upwards from their Q2 2024 lows and, as Australia imports most of its fertilisers, the weaker AUD was a key driver in this move,” Mr Vogel said.
“Looking into 2025, we don’t expect very big price swings but see more upside than downside price risk and costs on Australian farms are expected to remain still well above the levels seen before Covid.”
THE first ever First Nations-led AgTech event kicked off in Cairns last week, bringing farmers, AgTech innovators and industry stakeholders in Queensland’s agricultural sector together for two days of collaboration.
Millenia of Ag-Innovation, hosted by the Tropical North Queensland Drought Resilience Adoption and Innovation Hub (TNQ Drought Hub) in collaboration with Farmers2Founders and Local Indigenous Food Enterprise Services (LIFES) was aimed at exploring the intersection
of traditional knowledge and cutting-edge agricultural technologies.
The showcase highlighted groundbreaking First Nations initiatives and demonstrated how the fusion of traditional practices with modern AgTech could drive sustainable advancements across the sector.
TNQ Drought Hub Director Professor David Phelps said the event, which is being funded by AgriFutures Australia, was part of a larger effort to spotlight First Nations innovation and collaboration within the industry,
and provided a unique opportunity for people to have conversations that they otherwise wouldn’t get the chance to have.
“It’s about getting people out of the office and into the regions to see these innovative ways the community has been resilient, diversified and able to come back from things like natural disasters,” he said.
The program covered livestock, cropping, and aquaculture and offered valuable opportunities for learning about innovation and sustainable growth for both farmers and AgTech developers.
LIFES president Marc Harbrow said this event is a step forward for many First-Nation businesses.
“LIFES was created to help elevate First Nations businesses that are in the food and agriculture space between Cardwell to Hopevale,” he said.
“There are a number of businesses that do need help and support to connect with greater opportunities, whether that’s business exports, business contacts or new business.
“We’re talking about businesses that are on farmlands and not in metropolitan areas.”
A BOLD 25-year plan is being developed by the State Government to future-proof Queensland’s primary industries.
The aim of the plan is to ensure the sector remains the backbone of the Queensland economy and drives growth to reach the Crisafulli Government’s commitment of boosting the State’s agricultural output to $30 billion by 2030.
The government will work closely with farmers, industry leaders and regional communities to set the strategic vision which will be complemented by five-year operational plans tailored to meet regional and sector needs.
Critical considerations will include the impact of global megatrends, technological advancements including agtech and diversification, advanced manufacturing, and new international trade opportunities as well as environmental, social, and governance (ESG) considerations.
Minister for Primary Industries Tony Perrett said the Crisafulli Government was delivering a fresh start for Queensland’s primary industries, after a decade of Labor neglect.
“The landscape of Queensland’s primary industries is changing rapidly, and we must act to ensure our industries and communities remain competitive, productive and resilient into the future,” he said.
“By working together, we can co-design solutions that reflect local priorities and help Queensland meet its ambitious economic goals to ultimately grow the sector.
“The Premier and I took to the election a commitment to return the department to being a trusted advisor to industry, not an inhibitor.
“This process, vision and plans will play a role in returning to a culture where the department and industry collaborate, to meet challenges and grow the sector, a culture which Labor has eroded from agriculture in Queensland, during their successive terms in office.
“This is a 25-year blueprint for a stronger future, and it’s all about unleashing new and exciting opportunities for Queensland producers in the years to come.”
A four-month consultation process will start with a full-day forum on the 26 February in Brisbane, with the blueprint to be released next financial year.
FARMERS and graziers who want to leave their farm in better condition than when they started, and improve their soil at the same time are being encouraged to attend upcoming workshops.
Starting in late March, this peer-to-peer soil health group will run two workshops per month until May.
The workshops will cover off on reading soil and sap tests, implementing soil health practices right for specific farms, visits with local farmers and develop a soil action plan for the year ahead.
Preference will be given to farmers on the Atherton Tablelands, however farmers in the Mareeba-Dimbulah Irrigation Area and Barron catchment areas are also encouraged to apply.
Led by Andre Leu, local farmer and educator for 50 years, and Sally Fields, agronomist and extension specialist, attendees will visit local farms, enjoy guest speaker sessions and hear information that covers a range of topics about farming whilst building soil.
Expressions of interest will close on Saturday 22 February. Go to this link to fill out the form www.forms.gle/ v1FEzFLcdMyXjWq28, or send Sally Fields an email if you wish to register: sally@sustainabletable.org.au
The workshops will be open to 15 farm businesses.
Tourism industry digs in to restore tree kangaroo habitat
A SECOND hectare of tree
kangaroo habitat has been planted by the tourism industry as part of Tourism Tropical North Queensland’s partnership with Reforest to connect the industry with local carbon removal and ecosystem restoration.
TTNQ hosted the 2025 Mabi Forest Planting Day in partnership with Reforest and Terrain NRM at Wongabel where a buffer of trees has been planted alongside the Kennedy Highway and revegetation is underway beside existing forest.
TTTNQ chief executive officer Mark Olsen said about 40 tourism industry representatives helped to plant 3150 trees at the Mabi site which would remove 637 tonnes of carbon dioxide over the next 25 years.
“TTNQ partnered with Reforest four years ago to connect members to Tropical North Queensland forest restoration projects for business or consumer contributions,” he said.
“The Reforest activities provide carbon removal which we use to mitigate the impact of our visiting media and trade familiarisation programs.
“Our business events program encourages conferences and incentive groups to use Reforest to assist with delivering a sustainable event.
“TTNQ purchased 270 trees to remove the carbon emissions of delegates attending the incentive event Australia Next 2024 in Cairns which brought the world’s leading business events buyers to our region in September.
“The Reforest dashboard shows the progress of the restoration, with 18 TTNQ members planting 5,639 trees to date.
“Our annual planting day is a great opportunity for the industry to see the impact the program is having on the ground, hear from Terrain NRM, plant a few trees and if we are lucky, we will spot a tree kangaroo.”
Reforest chief executive officer Daniel Walsh said the partnership with the tourism industry was a showcase example of leading organisations within a destination coming together, under the TTNQ banner, to invest in the natural assets that tourism depends upon.
“Consumers want to feel that they are leaving their destination better than they found it, and they expect to see the tourism businesses they engage with to be playing an active role in that,” he said.
“This program enables visitors to see a consistent theme of ecosystem restoration throughout the destination, and our platform lets them feel some
ownership over that positive impact.”
Terrain NRM chief executive officer Stewart Christie said Mabi forest was a critically endangered forest type only found on the Atherton Tablelands.
“Mabi forest was extensively cleared after European settlement for timber and agriculture, with only about 4% of the original forest remaining and much of it in small,
fragmented pockets on private land,” he said.
“This has serious long-term implications for the genetic variability of species that live in this habitat, and their ability to resist extinction.
“Reforest is helping to support on-ground activities to extend and reconnect Mabi forest to make it stronger and more resilient to threats like climate change.”
LOCAL event organisers are being urged to apply for a grant from Tablelands Regional Council.
“We provide support for events in our region via cash sponsorship and in-kind support,” Mayor Rod Marti said.
“Sponsorship amounts depend on the community benefit and category of event, and in-kind support is for the use of our bins, tables, chairs, marquees, traffic cones, bollards, accessible car parking signs and other items.”
While in-kind support can be applied for at any time, cash sponsorship applications are due by Monday 10 March for events between Tuesday 1 July 2025 and Tuesday 30 June 2026.
“This gives us time to assess the applications and consider them during budget deliberations,” Mayor Marti said. Find out more and apply by going to www.trc.qld.gov.au/eventsponsorship.
TALENTED musicians including the likes of Tessa Devine, Tullara and The Lucky Thirteen Blues Band will be making their way to the Tablelands’ “home of live music” from this weekend.
Tablelands Music Lovers are set to host two juggernauts in the Australian indie-folk arena this Saturday with Tullara and main act Tessa Devine performing at Grainger Lane, Atherton.
The night will be kicked off at 7pm by Tullara, a “powerhouse” performer with over 1.5 million streams on Spotify.
Following that, Tessa Devine will hit the stage to perform her wide array of “soul-stirring” tracks.
Tessa attracts comparisons to the likes of Florence and The Machine, Matt Corby, and Tracey Chapman. Tickets are $20 and can be purchased via www.tiny.cc/ tessadevine, children under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
Tablelands Music Lovers will also be hosting The Lucky Thirteen Blues Band next Friday night from 7.30pm at Grainger Lane.
There is a $15 entry fee for members and a $20 entry fee for non-members, accompanied minors are welcome.
ART lovers can enjoy some 40 diverse works at Little Eden House next week, when the Yungaburra Village Artist Group hosts its annual exhibition.
The group is made up of amateur and professional artists that live within the 4884 post code, whose mediums range from acrylic, water-colour, and oil paintings to mixed media, silverwork artistry, and 3D art.
“It’s the first time we have held it at Little Eden House, which is a very nice space,” spokesperson Dr Chris Earl said. “It provides greater opportunity for visitors, diners, and others to see the works.”
teachers to see if we can attract high school students and some younger members,” he said.
“We have a great range - one is 90 years old - he’s very young at heart and keen on art.”
All artworks are original pieces and will be on sale for the duration of the show.
“There’s a great range and diversity,” Dr Earl said. “One artist who impresses me all the time is Ian Waldren, a very well-known artist whose work features in international and national galleries. He’s just re-joined the group.”
Dr Earl said the variety of art reflected the membership and “the community of Yungaburra, which is a very creative place” of music and visual artists.
An artist and musician himself, Dr Earl said the group currently had seven members after four people moved on recently.
“We are looking for interested artists and artisans to join and we are talking to local art
Dr Earl said he will be submitting eight works of acrylic and water-colours, as well as limited edition prints of the Yungaburra Folk Festival.
The Yungaburra Village Arts Group Exhibition will be open at 2pm on Saturday 22 February and runs until 31 March. Drinks and nibbles will be available.
WOMEN from across the region are being invited to come and celebrate International Women’s Day at a special luncheon to be held in Mareeba on 7 March.
International Women’s Day is a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. The day, which is marked annually on 8 March, also marks a call to action for accelerating women’s equality and this year’s theme is “Accelerate Action”.
The Mareeba event is being hosted by The Express Newspaper and Mareeba Lions Club and will be held at the Mareeba International Club on Friday 7 March from 12 noon to 2pm.
Monica will give the audience an insight into her special interest in women’s health and paediatrics and why she established Bloom and Grow Physiotherapy, a clinic that provides services in women’s pelvic health, a specialised area of physiotherapy, for women through all life stages.
The clinic also provides physiotherapy services for babies, toddlers and young children.
An accomplished photographer, musician, artist, business owner, and entrepreneur, Nadine will give a presentation on her successful Hope Deck, a 44-piece affirmation card set designed to inspire self-discovery and empowerment.
The event will feature a wonderful lunch, live music by Shandell, lucky door prizes and plenty of laughs with the crew from Comedy Tours.
Attendees will also hear from two speakers – Monica Madrid from Bloom and Grow Physiotherapy and Nadine Cockrem, the author of The Hope Deck.
Nadine says she is committed to helping others connect with their authentic selves, offering transformative workshops and one-onone healing sessions.
Tickets for the Mareeba luncheon are now available online and close on 3 March. Go to www.trybooking.com/CZAIV
IMAGINE waking up in a home designed just for you – spacious, modern, and set within a thriving community. Stage 13B at Amaroo Estate presents a rare opportunity to secure your ideal homesite in the sought-after Moondani Avenue and Karobean Drive precinct. This premium development offers 18 affordable lots, thoughtfully designed to provide the perfect balance of space, convenience, and modern amenities, including:
• Wide frontages
• Town water, underground power, and sewerage
• NBN connectivity
• Generous lot sizes from 875sqm to 1164sqm, giving you room to create the lifestyle you’ve always envisioned But act fast – these highly sought-after lots are selling quickly! Don’t let 2025 pass without securing the future you deserve.
Contact Ryley on 0409 321 000 today for more information or to arrange a private onsite inspection at your convenience.
Follow us on our socials or check out our website www. amarooestate.com.au for all updates regarding our upcoming stages.
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 a shared front veranda 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
Address: Price: Agent:
property is a must to inspect if you are wanting make a secure investment purchase
Contact Collette at Raine & Horne Atherton to arrange your inspection.
Contact: 36 John Street, RAVENSHOE $285,000
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.
Address: Price: Agent:
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 Trisha Jackson at Professionals Atherton.
Contact: ATHERTON Expressions of Interest
Trisha Jackson Professionals Real Estate Atherton 4091 3955 or 0419 1833 145
This remarkable home is perfectly designed to showcase its breath taking views, making it an exceptional choice for those who appreciate both comfort and natural beauty.
It boasts four spacious bedrooms, all with builtin robes and ceiling fans, while two rooms, including the master suite, are airconditioned for added comfort.
The master bedroom features a luxurious ensuite, a walk-in robe (WIR), and French doors that open onto a private deck, where you can relax and soak in the stunning surroundings.
The well-equipped timber kitchen complete with a gas cooker, dishwasher, and corner pantry, offers
captivating views through the corner windows above the sink. It flows seamlessly into the spacious, air-conditioned lounge and dining areas, while the rest of the home benefits from ceiling fans to maintain airflow.
For entertaining, the expansive deck, featuring a connecting kitchen door and shade blinds, provides the ultimate space to host guests while enjoying the
spectacular scenery.
Additional practical features include a double garage with a remote-controlled door and drive-through rear roller door, a two-bay shed (9m x 7m) with power, and a massive powered storage room/ Kids teenager hang out space located beneath the entertaining area.
For more information and viewing contact exclusive marketinbg agent Suzey Whitby on 0438 090 306.
3 Moses Circuit, ATHERTON Offers Over $799,000 EXCLUSIVE to Suzey Whitby Ray White Rural Atherton 0438 090 306 or 4091 7111
LOCATED at 8 Hanrahan Street, within walking distance to Malanda CBD and both primary and secondary schools, the perfect location on a generous 871 sqm block. The double storey family home features the following: Upstairs
• Three bedrooms with built-in’s
• Spacious laminate kitchen and dining area
• Lounge room with hardwood polished timber floors, cypress pine feature wall and wood heater
• Main bathroom
• Security/fly screens and fans throughout Downstairs
• Second bathroom
• Laundry
• Fourth bedroom or office space
• Fifth room, tiled
• Double bay lockable garage
The 12m x 8m2 powered shed compliments the backyard, having half of the floor space gravel and the other side concrete.
For more information, contact Shellie Nightingale at Nightingale Real Estate Tablelands on 0429 966 038 today.
LOCATED in a quiet, established area in town this light, bright and airy 3 bedroom home is beautifully presented and immaculately maintained. It’s better than brand new because everything has been done for you. Offering all the extras you’ve been looking for with nothing left to do but simply move in.
Property Features:
• Immaculately maintained spacious open plan
• 3 generous bedrooms with built-in robes
• Split-system air-conditioning in the living area and 2 bedrooms
• Stylish galley style kitchen with easy access to the dining and entertainment areas
• Modern bathroom
• Sliding windows, security screens and blinds
Address: Price: Agent: Contact: 8 Hanrahan Street, MALANDA Contact Agent
EXCLUSIVE to Shellie Nightingale Nightingale Real Estate Tablelands 0429 966 038
• Front patio/sitting area with shade blinds + private rear timber deck/patio overlooking the lush tropical gardens
• Substantial covered entertainment area which could also be utilised as another carport
• 6.64Kw solar power system + solar hot water
• 7m x 7m powered colorbond shed with 5m x 7m double front carport and rear roller door access to the backyard
• 2nd 10m x 5m colorbond shed with roller door access
• High clearance shade shed
suitable for a caravan • 911m2 allotment with fenced rear yard, manicured gardens and automatic popup irrigation on timer • Quiet cul de sac location, only 1 minute from Mareeba CBD This attractive home has so much to offer. Inspect for yourself and be prepared to fall in love.
For further information or to arrange a private inspection please call exclusive agent Joe Torrisi today.
Address: Price: Agent: Contact: 3 Purcell Street, MAREEBA Offers Over $495,000 EXCLUSIVE to Joe Torrisi Joe Torrisi Real Estate 0417 700 468
Central Realty Mareeba is proud to present to the market for the first time in over two decades this property in a prime position on the main street of Mareeba. Welcome to 294-296 Byrnes Street.
Occupying a double block, the medium-density residential zoned land is currently home to a super-spacious family-sized dwelling, a large Colorbond shed and plenty
of room for everyone to grow, right in the heart of town.
The red-brick home consists of 3 enormous bedrooms, two bathrooms, spacious living areas inside and out, a double garage and additional store room, plus patios front and back.
All bedrooms and the living area feature air-conditioning. The kitchen is spacious and combines with a great size
dining room. The lounge room is huge and with wall-to-wall mirrors feels enormous. The main bathroom is accessed from the hallway and is convenient to the bedrooms.
Outside the features continue, with covered front and back patios. Off the rear patio is the laundry room, which also has an additional bathroom with shower and separate toilet. Centrally there is a fully enclosed outdoor living area, great for parties or get-togethers. The front patio is a great size and has remote controlled privacy screens as well.
There is a double garage under the main roof, and an additional storage or utility room to the rear, perfect for the home handyman. Out
GET out of town and discover what it’s like to live in peace and quiet. This property would be perfect for a family wanting the rural lifestyle yet still be close to shops, schools, and amenities.
Sitting on 19.96acres of land, you’ve got endless options on what to do here. Ideal for those with cattle, horses, or other livestock. Space to ride around on motorbikes, or simply grow some veggies.
Property Features:
• Beautifully presented clay brick home (approx. 330m2 under roof)
• 4 Bedrooms, 3 bedrooms with built-in robes & reverse cycle air-conditioning
• 2 bathrooms, 1 bathroom recently renovated
• Spacious rumpus room
• Open plan kitchen/dining room
• Tasmanian Oak kitchen with electric appliances, breakfast bar & dishwasher
• Separate lounge room with a classic brick fireplace
– Perfect for the cooler months.
• Large sunroom overlooking
Carrington Falls & the Herberton Range
• Tiles, ceiling fans & plenty of storage space throughout home
• 3 bay remote-control garage with storage cupboards
• Outdoor entertainment area + verandas on 2 sides of home
• Outdoor laundry & a separate storeroom on veranda
• Mostly cleared 19.96 acre property
• 3 bay open shed with power & water
• Equipped bore, 5,000L rainwater tank, dam & property backs onto a permanent creek
• Solar panels with 2 inverters
• 4 fenced paddocks
• Animal enclosure with an automatic water trough
• Ford 5000 Tractor complete with slasher, reverse blade anddisc harrow
• 40 Irrigated fruit trees + veggie gardens
• Well established and maintained gardens
• Escape to your own sanctuary, no neighbours in sight!
• Gazetted road on the right side of the property
AN award-winning modern Queenslander that beautifully blends contemporary luxury with Yungaburra’s iconic charm. Perfectly positioned to boast breathtaking, northfacing water views of Lake Tinaroo. Cleverly designed as a sanctuary for both hospitality and relaxation, the property is currently operating as a successful Airbnb from the lower level, offering passive income for the owner. The Hamptons-inspired upper level serves as the heart of the home, featuring:
• Air-Conditioned Open Plan Living opening onto a
stunning alfresco area with sweeping lake views.
• Hamptons Kitchen: With an island bench, pantry, appliance cupboard, and stone benchtops.
• Spacious Master Suite with a built-in bedhead, pendant lighting, plantation shutters, and water views. Includes a spacious luxe walk-in robe with custom cabinetry and soft-close drawers.
• Elegant Ensuite with freestanding bathtub, walk-in shower, and stonetopped vanity with matching splashback.
• The second bedroom
features a walk-in robe, pendant lighting, water views and plantation shutters, while the third bedroom offers built-in robes and plantation shutters.
• Main Bathroom with double vanity and walk-in shower.
• A double garage with remote panel lift door, laundry area, and ample linen storage.
• A fenced courtyard for the fur babies, with potential for conversion into boat storage.
Lower Level Airbnb Studio with separate access and luxurious amenities, it ensures independence and comfort while maintaining
close proximity to the main residence. Features include:
• Air-Conditioned open plan with picture windows framing views of the pool and lake.
• Fully equipped kitchen with a dishwasher, wine fridge, double French-door fridge, induction cooktop and washing machine.
• Air-conditioned bedroom with built-in bedhead and wardrobes.
• Stylish bathroom with floor-to-ceiling tiles, walk-in shower and infrared sauna.
• Courtyard and patio also with French-pattern Travertine tiles and
sweeping lake views. Landscaping and Block Features:
Professionally landscaped and terraced to maximize the 724m² block with a stunning magnesium plunge pool overlooking Tinaroo, the yard is fully retained and accessible via side stairs leading to the Airbnb apartment.
Address: Price: Agent: Contact:
With its blend of modern sophistication, serene surroundings, and income potential, Lakeside Oasis truly has it all. Don’t miss this incredible opportunity.
Contact exclusive Elders agent Michelle Raso today to arrange your private viewing.
3 Waterfront Tce, YUNGABURRA Offers Over $1.7m EXCLUSIVE to Michelle Raso Elders Real Estate Tablelands 0428 116 136
I WRITE in relation to the Rod Marti’s comments RE Cr Cardew speaking out against council (Express 12/02/25).
Frankly, I was stunned to read the views of the Mayor.
Information that has been exposed, makes it abundantly clear there are serious fundamental flaws in the way TRC operates. It is clear that senior council officers enjoy too much unfettered power, and are not being held accountable for their conduct.
When we have officers failing to inform council, of a report outlining serious risks to public safety, it is clear the horse has well and truly bolted on process and accountability.
Whilst I do not agree with Cr Cardew on all matters, the fact that a sitting councillor has publicly stated there are serious flaws within council is very serious indeed.
This includes direct evidence of a senior officer providing false information to an elected representative. Clearly there are massive problems here!
Having received no action from within council, Cr Cardew has vowed to publicly expose TRC and hold both the organisation and senior staff accountable. I admire and respect Cardew for speaking out.
My frustration is that more councillors have not done so sooner.
In responding to this, the Mayor should have declared that the matters raised would be taken seriously. Instead, he elected to speak on behalf of all other councillors and deny the problem.
But it gets far worse.
The final straw for me is where Marti makes the absurd claims that Cr Cardew speaking out is: (a) is “attacking” the organisation and, (b) that doing so diminishes council performance.
Frankly, these comments are utterly preposterous!
The undertone here is very troubling and must not go unchecked. The comments made are clearly designed to shut down dissent and stop whistleblowers from speaking out, exposing the wrongdoings of council. This must be condemned!
Despite the Mayor’s view that these matters belong in the boardroom, the Mayor and councillors are reminded they
are accountable to those they supposedly represent – the community.
These matters MUST be publicly raised – it is completely unacceptable to suggest that they should be kept behind closed doors.
Serious council failings on a host of issues have been exposed, (with others yet to be made public).
It is very troubling indeed when those who do speak out are treated in an appalling manner that has evidently become the playbook of Tablelands Regional Council.
Namely: Deny, deflect and avoid accountability.
Matt Lachlan MALANDA
Under performance, accountability, lack of transparency, within TRCcouncillors inclusive. Seemingly supported by other councillors who unfortunately are being labelled in the broader community as to being Marti’s muppets.
This council/councillors under Mayor Marti to put it mildly is a “cloak and dagger” operation and about as transparent as a block of concrete.
Should Cr Cardew see that the only way forward as to implement change is to go public and hold all parties accountable for their actions, or lack thereof, he not only has the right to go public but, as an elected councillor, I believe he has a duty to do so.
The rot has to stop.
As for council morale, Mayor Marti, a happy workforce/workplace, does not necessarily translate to a good
workforce.
It can also point to a workforce/councillors under performing on all fronts with no accountability for doing so.
Stick to it Cr Cardew, you will find a majority of ratepayers will support both yourself and your actions.
On a perplexing note, Mayor Marti claimed ex CEO Gary Rinehart “resigned” from council and that the departure was amicable on both fronts.
If this departure was as stated by Mayor Marti, why does TRC now find themselves before the Industrial Commission of Queensland? (See story, Page 3 of this edition)
Russell Lynch UPPER BARRON
Road conditions a truckies’ headache
FURTHER to the Hann article (12/02/25). Absolutely the 11km is paramount in road access to our neck of the woods but if push comes to shove at least the 11km are usable by commercial vehicles at a reduced speed.
What is more important is the fact that it take two spits of rain for the Bundock Creek and Einasleigh River to become impassable. Having driven that road five times last year, the last trip showed up its infallibilities.
Driving a truck up that road from Charleville and getting to Hughenden, my overnight stop, finding it had rained further up the road.
The next morning on the road and here’s an electric sign on the outskirts of town: Road Closed. I phoned the Oasis roadhouse for an update but the worker couldn’t say whether it was rising or lowering.
The two spits of rain had made the Einasleigh go over and impassable.
Should a bloke take a chance and go hoping it had gone down by the time, about 2ish hours, you get there or do you spend an extra four hours going to The Towers then turn left.......left it was.
Getting to The Oasis at about 11ish, I found that you could’ve, in a high clearance/ truck type vehicle, get through the Einasleigh at about 10ish.
The thing is that waiting at that sign you HAVE to make your decision ‘cos there’s nobody at the incident site to let you know.
When are the governments going to treat us like grownups and deal with the bloody rural/ outback road system.
This country operates because of trucks...end of!
And another thing….. Starting beginning of October last year, one of those cheap to purchase/lease/run big square electric signboards has been sitting near the CarringtonRoad turnoff.
It has been spruiking the promise of roadworks on the very badly potholed Wongabel road and that road closures were imminent. Riiiiight.
Well, 138 days later and so many revisions on the aforementioned BSE signboard that I’ve lost count. The whole bloody thing has disappeared without a shot being fired, apart from some culverts being dumped on the side of a couple of driveways.
One wonders what the very many road users think about this... I’m yet to find out, one wonders if the funding has been redirected to a certain folly behind Main Street (Atherton).
Simon Klein ATHERTON
FEBRUARY 2025
IT was a slow and wet start to the year but that seems to have changed dramatically. Unfortunately, the February markets were cancelled as the weather was just too uncertain and the 100 Park was generally waterlogged.
But we’ll be back on 8 March, so come and enjoy the usual Mareeba Markets.
All of a sudden, we appear to have hit top gear. Thankfully, we have people being invited to join our small club, which is great. We could do with more members as we have so many annual events to organise.
We are also interested in forming new Lions Clubs in the area. If you think your community could support a Lions Club then get in touch.
Speewah, Koah, Mt Molloy, Julatten, Chillagoe to name a few are communities which could benefit from having a Lions Club delivering humanitarian and service projects in the immediate area.
There are many benefits in forming a Lions Club in your area, and for your purpose, particularly being part of an organisation with 1.4 million members and insurance.
We have numerous events throughout the year – in the near future, we have Clean Up Australia, Mt Garnet Rodeo, Chillagoe Rodeo, International Women’s Day and Markets to name a few.
Also, the Metrogaine will be on again in June. This is a family fun morning which raises funds for the Australian Lions Childhood Cancer Research Foundation, and The Queensland and Northern New South Wales Lions Medical Research Foundation.
At the end of the day, research is important – the life you save may be your own.
If you are keen on keeping rubbish out of our waterways, register online for Clean Up Australia or come along on Sunday 2 March and register. We have two sites so plenty of rubbish to go round.
We want to recycle your rubbish. We can take your old spectacles, your collected stamps, your car and other batteries Lions Serve. We are a humanitarian organisation serving our communities at a local, national, and international level.
Remember you can support your local Mareeba Lions by taking your recyclable containers to Containers for Change 11 Bowers Street and quote Scheme ID C10128319. The depot is out near the cattle sale yards.
No need to package just take your recyclables out there and quote the ID number for Lions. Don’t waste the containers help your local Lions Club by dropping them off for recycling.
In addition, you can recycle vehicle batteries by dropping off at Brunos Batteries, or Lions will collect from you if that suits you better. Lions also receive postage stamps and eye glasses for recycling.
Although membership of Lions is by invitation, you are invited to enquire about joining this great volunteer international humanitarian organisation.
Fellowship, Good times, meeting people, building lasting friendships, service to the community, learning new skills, leadership and personal development - these are some of the reasons we are the Lions.
Lions meet in Mareeba at the Mareeba Leagues Club at 6.30pm on the first and third Tuesday of the month.
DETAILS:
to remove errors and improve clarity or accuracy. (5)
23. The act of obeying a law or rule, (10)
24. A large hairy creature resembling a human or bear, said to live in the highest part of the Himalayas. (4)
27. A medicine or other remedy that will supposedly cure any ailment. (4-3)
28. A pole with a flat blade, used to row or steer a boat through the water. (3)
29. Pull (something) hard or suddenly. (3)
30. A short break for light refreshments, usually with tea or coffee, taken at about eleven o’clock in the morning. (9)
31. Break open or apart suddenly and violently, (5)
DOWN:
1. A bundle of sticks bound together as fuel. (5)
2. No longer wanted; abandoned or discarded. (4-3)
3. A long strip or loop of cloth worn over one shoulder or round the waist, (4)
4. The action or process of paying someone or something or of being paid. (7)
K B Y I E
E V C R I I M C R P L O C I C L N L H
R F E V T E C E A E B E R H P R J E C
C W A C I A W T E M P T U T V T D S U
ACROSS:
1. The centre of interest or activity. (5)
4. Relating to or characteristic of a pharaoh or the time of the pharaohs. (9)
9. A substance or matter in a state in which it will expand freely to fill the whole of a container. (3)
10. Nervous or timid in the company of other people. (3)
11. French visual artist, known for both his use of colour and his fluid and original draughtsmanship. (7)
12. Archaic or dialect form of you, as the singular subject of a verb. (4)
13. Animals that feed on plants. (10)
15. A fermented milk drink with a sour taste, made using a culture of yeasts and bacteria. (5)
16. Used to describe a person or an organization that does not have to pay tax. (3-6)
17. A recurrent theme throughout a musical or literary composition, associated with a particular person, idea, or situation. (9)
21. To make corrections and revisions to (a text) in order
5. Permanent receptacle in a church for the donations that are prompted by charity (4,3)
6. A person who is opposed to vaccination. (4-6)
7. A medicine prepared by an unqualified person, especially one that is not considered effective. (7)
8. Past tense; to treat would with a specific substance. (9)
14. To promote or make widely known (an idea or cause). (10)
15. A former measure of frequency, equivalent to 1 kilohertz. (9)
18. Dip or submerge in a liquid. (7)
19. A tall prickly Eurasian plant with spiny purple flower heads. (7)
20. Having or showing a lack of thought or intelligence; mindless. (7)
22. A person who has the right to vote in an election, especially one for members of a national parliament. (7)
25. A block of steel, gold, silver, or other metal, typically oblong in shape. (5) 26. Hit or beat (someone) repeatedly.
Pamper yourself; the self esteem it brings you will be most gratifying. Minor health problems could result through exhaustion. Accommodate others but not before you do your own thing. Do the proper safety checks before you go out.
Don’t forget that your budget is limited right now. Females may put demands or added responsibilities on you. Do not confront situations unless you are sure you have a good understanding of the dilemma. You’re intuitive this week; however, this attribute could get you in trouble.
Small business ventures can earn you extra cash. You will be looking for creative ways to make a little extra income. Be honest if you wish to solve the problem. You may find yourself caught in the middle of an argument that has nothing to do with you.
You will be misinterpreted if you get involved in other people’s problems. Take a look at the possibilities of starting a small part time business with friends or relatives. You can enhance your reputation if you treat family and friends with respect and dignity.
Opportunities for new and exciting relationships will be yours if you get out and join groups. Things are looking good for you, so open your eyes and get to it. Involvement in groups will be favourable and lead to valuable information. Love could develop at social events.
Don’t try to get even without having all the facts. You can’t help everyone. Talking to those you trust and respect will help you sort out any problems. Do not give your heart to someone who may not live up to your standards. You deserve the best, remember that.
There might be a problem with a will or with an insurance policy. Elders may get you going this week. New romantic ties can be made; however, you must make sure that your motives are not selfish before you make your move. You may be overly emotional with your partner.
You will have an interest in foreigners and their cultures. Time to deal with institutional environments, government agencies, and matters of a private nature this week. Opportunities for new and exciting relationships will be yours if you get out and join groups.
YDo you really want to start something with someone you can’t reason with? You will meet new and exciting people if you attend social activities or sporting events. Enjoy some socializing this week. Get those home improvements finally done.
Romance could develop through social activities or trips. You may find that family members may not be too easy to get along with. Don’t be too eager to cut those who have disappointed you from your life. You may not have all the facts.
You may not be too pleased with the actions of those you live with. You have a lot to offer. Don’t spend too much in order to impress others. You may find out that someone has not been completely honest with you. But gather all information first.
Unexpected events may be upsetting. Travel will promote new romantic connections. Look into ways to better yourself through improving your dietary habits and daily routines. There will be difficulties if you spend too much.
Noel Edward HARE
Late of Kairi. Passed away at the Proserpine Hospital on the 9th of February, 2025. Aged 90 years.
Widower to Beverley & Shirley.
Relatives of the Hare family & friends of Noel (Nobby) are respectfully invited to attend his funeral at the Herberton Cemetery at a time and date to be confirmed. Updates can be found on Community Funerals Facebook page and website: www.communityfunerals.com.au.
Gary James Tudehope
It’s with great sadness that the family of Gary James Tudehope, D.O.B 19/2/1957, passed away suddenly on 7/2/2025. Friends and family are invited to celebrate Gary’s life at the Atherton Golf Club at 10am on the 27th of February, 2025.
GINO TRABUCCO
The family of the late Gino Trabucco would like to thank everyone who visited, phoned, sent flowers,cards, and attended Gino’s funeral. We drew great comfort from your care and kindness during this time. We would like to extend our deepest gratitude to all those who provided health care to Gino throughout his life; Dr Manypeney and staff at Mareeba Medical Centre, Dr Starmer, Dr Suki Ahluwalia, St John’s Community Care, Mareeba Blue Care Aged Care, and all the staff at the Mareeba Hospital. Thank you to Cami at Guilfoyle Funeral Services for your compassion and professionalism.
Please accept this as our personal thanks to you all.
Angiolina MORO
The family of the late Angiolina Moro wishes to express our heartfelt gratitude for the love and support shown during our time of loss.
A special thank you to the dedicated staff of Mount Kooyong Nursing Home for their compassionate care, as well as to our wonderful friends, extended family, and the wider community for their kind words, prayers, and support.
Your generosity and thoughtfulness have been a great comfort to us.
With deepest appreciation, Joe, Rico, Lino Moro and families.
Our Family would sincerely like to thank Dr. Dan Caines, the medical staff at Atherton and Cairns Hospitals, the dialysis units, the paramedics, and all who cared for Rob during the past few years and days prior to his passing.
Huge gratitude to Kim Gunst, our chosen funeral celebrant and friend, who conducted the most beautiful service in conjunction with Community Funerals Atherton. We thank you all for your dedication, support and care.
Lastly, we appreciate the messages of love and condolences from relatives and friends.
Rob touched the lives of so many people and was truly loved and well respected. He will be sadly missed.
Rob was laid to rest at Atherton’s new cemetery on January 28th, 2025.
IN LOVING MEMORY OF JAMES FRANCIS CLARKE
24.02.1932 – 06.02.2018
May the winds of time blow softly and whisper in your ear, How much we love and miss you and wish that you were here.
Never forgotten. BETTY AND FAMILY.
16-02-1913 to 18-02-1992
32 years have gone so fast, Remembering all the good times in the past. If only we could turn back time, A hug and a kiss would be just fine.
But God has plans from up above, Taking the best one by one, But will reunite us when our time will come.
From your loving daughter, Giovanna, Salvatore, Carmelina, Michelina, Danielle, Frank and their families.
Fishin’. Forever loved Mum & Stepdad Al, Allyn & Yvonne Edwards.
01.08.1914 ~ 18.02.1982
~ 25.05.2013
Softly the leaves of memory fall, Gently we gather and treasure them all. Unseen, unheard, you are always near, So missed, so loved, so very dear. Forever in our hearts, Ida and Domenic, Betty and Jack, Michael and Rita, and families.
IN LOVING MEMORY OF JEFFREY CHARLES SNELLING
13.03.1973 – 12.02.2023
Beloved son, husband, father, brother, brother-in-law, uncle, cousin, friend and enthusiastic and respected Tractor Mechanic. Treasured memories remain always in our hearts. We miss you so much Jeff. Your Loving Family.
8 TO CHOOSE FROM • “0” Turn 42” Cut
• Next “G”
• Stockmans
Notice of 2025 Annual General Meeting Atherton Football Club Inc. Sunday 9th March, 2025 @ 4:00pm Atherton International Club, Kennedy Highway, Atherton Enquiries to: athertonfc@gmail.com General meeting to follow. REJUVENATED
• Lawn Boss FROM $1,500 CALL AL 0428 194 505
Casual Position (Approx 20 - 25 Hours / Week, Flexible Days and Hours)
Located in Mareeba
For more information and to apply, go to: gulfsavannahnrm.org/employment Applications close 9am, Monday 10th March, 2025.
Notice of Praecipe
For the record Anne-Louise Joy Duncanson of Arriga, Queensland, is permanently domiciled on the Land and Soil of Terra Australis.
I am not a voluntary transactor in commerce, and the paramount security interest holder of all estates, property, assets and collateral, both registered and unregistered, and all associated copyright protected trade names.
Make a submission from: 5th February, 2025 to 28th February, 2025
Reconfiguring a Lot Subdivision (1 Lot into 27 Lots)
Where: 30 Peters Street, Mareeba On: Lot 453 on SP247821
Approval Sought: Development Permit
Application Ref: RAL/23/0010
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
We are looking for an experienced Communications Officer with exceptional people skills to join our team.
Full Time or Part Time (60-75 hr/fortnight)
Location: Mareeba or Georgetown (Qld) For more information and to apply, go to: gulfsavannahnrm.org/employment Applications close 9am, Monday 24 February, 2025.
Briody Plumbing Pty Ltd is looking for a QUALIFIED PLUMBER
Full Time • $40-50 Per Hour
Briody Plumbing is a locally owned company, operating in Cairns and surrounding areas. We currently have a permanent, full time opportunity for a Qualified Plumber with experience in either of the following areas; Domestic, Commercial and Civil Plumbing.
Qualifi cations & Experience:
• Valid QLD Plumbing License (QBCC)
• Current QLD driver’s license
• Construction White Card
• Must have own basic tools Great company benefi ts.
If you are interested, we would love to hear from you.
Please send your resume to: admin@briodyplumbing.com.au
/ Machinery / Storage on the following land parcels within the Mareeba Shire Council: Lot 578 on SP159910 (permit and access) and Lot A on AP23418 (access). The application is located at approximately 7.6 kilometres south east of Mareeba.
The applicant is: Francesco Tatti (25%), Scott Troy Davis (25%), Phillip Wayne Manitta (25%) and Jason Anthony Whatley (25%)
Date & time applications lodged: 30 April 2024, 12:38am
Mining activities to be carried out include: Gold Mining Mining Lease Application Documents
The application documents consist of the Application for Mining Lease, copies of or extracts from the application documents, and the endorsed Mining Lease Notice detailing the location and description of the land applied for (including surface area and access), may be downloaded from the Departments website: https://www.business.qld.gov.au/industries/mining-energywater/resources/public-notices-tenders or may be inspected at the Department of Resources office – Verde Tower, Level 9, 445 Flinders Street, Townsville, Qld 4810 or may be obtained by contacting the local mines assessment hub on (07) 4447 9230 or mineralhub@resources. qld.gov.au.
Environmental Authority Documents
The application documents for the proposal consist of the following: A-EA-NEW-100754968 Standard application for a new environmental authority for a resource activity.
Copies of, or extracts from, the application documents may be inspected at the Department of Environment and Science 5B Sheridan Street, Cairns, Qld 4870 or may be obtained by contacting Permit and Licence Management by phone on 1300 130 372 or by email on palm@des.qld.gov.au.
Copies of the standard conditions and eligibility criteria for a resource activity can be obtained by accessing the Department of Environment and Science website: www.des.qld.gov.au or by contacting Permit and Licence Management by phone on 1300 130 372 (select option 4) or by email on palm@des.qld.gov.au.
Making A Properly Made Objection / Submission
It is advised that any person/entity may make an objection to the grant of the mining lease, and/or a submission about the application for the environmental authority. The objection/submission period, during which objections/submissions can be given, concludes on 6 March 2025 at 4:30pm (AEST).
A properly made objection and/or submission must be received on or before 4:30pm (AEST) on the last day of the objection/submission period. It must be lodged with the chief executive in writing in the approved form, addressed to the relevant Assessment Hub: Mineral Assessment Hub Level 9, 445 Flinders Street, Townsville QLD 4810 PO Box 1752, Townsville QLD 4810
Email: MineralHub@resources.qld.gov.au
A copy of the objection must also be served upon the applicant/s on or before the last day of the objection period at the following address: Francesco Tatti, Scott Davis, Phillip Manitta and Jason Whatley
C/- Claire Mackney PO Box 706, Mareeba Qld 4880
Objection for the mining lease application:
A properly made objection in respect to the grant of the mining lease is one that:
• is lodged, on or before 4:30pm (AEST) on the last objection day for the application with the chief executive in writing in the approved form;
• states the grounds of the objection and the facts and circumstances relied on in support of the grounds;
• is signed and dated by each person/entity (i.e. signatory) making the objection; and
• states the name and address of each signatory.
Intending objectors should obtain the approved objection form (MRA-20) by either contacting the relevant assessment hub on (07) 4447 9230 or online from the department’s website: https://www.business.qld. gov.au/industries/mining-energy-water/resources/applicationscompliance/forms-fees.
Submissions for the Environmental Authority application:
A properly made submission must meet all of the following requirements:
• be written or made electronically;
• state the name and address of each submitter;
• be made to the administering authority stated above;
• be received on or before the last day of the submission period;
• state the grounds of the submission and the facts and circumstances relied on in support of the grounds.
Intending submitters may contact the Department of Environment and Science on 1300 130 372 (select option 4) to obtain a submission form or obtain a copy from the departments website: www.des.qld.gov.au.
My lawful reconveyance to the Land and Soil jurisdiction of Terra Australis was recorded with Public Recording Number RPP4463900051003481144605 on Proclamation Date 15 January 2025, and tacit agreement was established by my unrebutted Living Testimony in the Form of an Affidavit. All usufruct subjugation ties have been severed with the occupying corporate government of Australia. The corporate Australian kakistocracy and its affiliates are instructed to immediately cease and desist misaddressing Anne-Louise Joy Duncanson in fraudulent debased Dog-Latin, GLOSSA and to cease and desist infringing upon my estate, property, assets, collateral and copyright protected trade names.
Herberton Memorial Bowls Club Inc.
NOTICE OF AGM 2025
Meeting will be held at the Herberton Club Rooms at: 10am on Saturday 22nd February
Members and visitors welcome! Ken Kitson (Secretary)
Public notification requirements are in accordance with the Planning Act 2016.
RSLA (QLD) MAREEBA SUB BRANCH INC.
2024 ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING SATURDAY 15TH MARCH, 2025
Notice is hereby given that the 2024 Annual General Meeting of the Sub Branch will be held at the Mareeba RSL Hall, 189-193 Walsh Street, Mareeba at 10:30am. A general meeting will follow the AGM. AGENDA ITEMS
Present the 2024 Financial and Audit Report. Election of 2025 Board Members. Nomination forms can be obtained from the Secretary Neil Dickinson and may be posted or emailed and must be received by the 8th of March, 2025. BBQ and Refreshments will follow the meeting.
Please contact the Secretary on 0400 869 426 for further information. Email: info@mareeba.rslqld.net.au Mail: PO Box 179, Mareeba, Qld 4880.
Mareeba Community Housing Company is seeking 2 and 3 bedroom rental properties in Mareeba for the Community Rent Scheme Program.
Properties must be in good condition to meet minimum housing standards.
The benefits include guaranteed rents, nil management fees, qualified tradespersons, and professional property management team.
PHONE 4092 6899 FOR FURTHER DETAILS AND LESSORS PACKAGES
currently holds the number one rank in the PBR.
AUSTRALIA’s first number-one-ranked bull rider since 1997 was recently announced after Queensland’s Brady Fielder went a perfect 3-for-3 to win a PBR event in Pittsburgh.
The 25-year-old is the first Australian to hold the world number one bull riding title since the legendary Troy Dunn, 28 years ago.
Fielder climbed to number one in the Unleash The Beast standings, and the PBR, after he successfully rode time in all three rounds at the U.S. Border Patrol PBR Pittsburgh, earning him an astonishing $48,200.
The only other rider to cover all three of his animal athlete opponents was Felipe Furlan (Sales Oliveira, Brazil), who finished second.
Fielder is not the only Australian, or Queenslander, currently competing in the States however, with Qynn Anderson of Koumala, Callum Miller of Warwick, and Ky Hamilton of Mackay also competing in the PBR.
The four are all from Queensland and have been coined as “the awesome foursome”.
Additionally, Fielder and Anderson are both a part of the Texas Rattlers, competing in the PBR Monster Energy Team Challenge.
“After winning the 2024 PBR Camping World Team Series Great 8 award, given to the rider with the highest riding percentage, Brady is enjoying the best UTB campaign of his career,” PBR Australia general manager Glen Young said.
“Brady has shown that our Aussie riders are truly world class and right now, all eyes are on Australian bull riders with the awesome foursome from Queensland all riding so well in the USA.
“We’re incredibly proud of the talent coming out of PBR Australia. Through structured training and top-tier events, we provide athletes with the foundation to excel both at home and on the global stage.
“The PBR Australia circuit plays a vital role as a pathway to the prestigious
US PBR circuit, offering our riders invaluable experience and opportunities to compete at the highest level.
“Riders like Brady set the standard for our up-and-coming talent, inspiring the next generation of Australian riders to aim higher and push further,” he said.
Brady’s next aim is to become the first Australian PBR World Champion, again, since Troy Dunn in 1998.
Fielder is described as a quiet, competitive bull rider with an infectious smile from the small town of Clermont (population 4,000).
In 2020 he was crowned PBR Australia’s Rookie Champion, but it all started growing up on the family-owned station, learning to ride claves during branding time.
Right alongside him to teach him the tricks of the trade were his two older brothers Luke and Clint, and his dad Tony.
Like many kids growing up on cattle stations across Queensland, he went to boarding school at St Brendan’s College in Yeppoon, and like many kids that have attended St Brendan’s, he competed in the Great Western Hotel Junior Bull Riding Series and discovered a talent for the sport.
His success at the Great Western Series resulted in three consecutive team selections to compete at the Youth World Bull Riding championships held annually in Texas USA.
By the time he had turned 18 and was old enough to start competing at PBR’s, Fielder had also competed in New Zealand as a member of the Australian High School team, won the CRCA 2017 Rookie title and was the youngest rider to ever win the APRA National Bull Riding title.
He made his PBR debut in December 2018 at the Adelaide Invitational, two months later he was competing as a member of the Australian team at the prestigious PBR Global Cup in Arlington Texas.
A busy 2019 resulted in this talented young man qualifying for his first ever PBR World Finals held in Las Vegas and taking out PBR Australia’s Rookie title. Now, this Queenslander is currently the world’s best bull rider.
THE first competition of the year for the Mareeba Gymnastics Club will be held this weekend as their junior boys take on other clubs in the region to qualify for State Championships.
The MAG Invitational is open to all junior boys in the region who compete in levels one through five and is also a qualifying event for the State Championships held in Brisbane in May.
A total of 25 boys will be competing from the Mareeba, Cairns and Townsville clubs, with 13 from Mareeba.
“Being the first competition of the season, we’re happy with where they are at,” Mareeba Gymnastics Club head coach Kelly Tulloch said.
“They’ve been training through the Christmas break to prepare, and I think they’ll do pretty good.”
The competition will be held this Sunday morning at Mareeba Gymnastics Club from 9am-12 noon. Entry is free for anyone who wishes to attend and there will also be a canteen open.
“Come along and have a look at what boys’ gymnastics can offer, a lot of people think it’s a girls sport but it’s definitely not,” Kelly said.
“Gymnastics for boys is all about strength and discipline.
LOCAL athletes who like to have a bit of fun with their sport can sign up for the Great Barrier Reef Masters Games to be held in Cairns later this year.
The masters games, to be held from 29 May to 1 June, features 24 sports so there’s plenty on offer for those who take their sport seriously and just like to have fun.
There will be two events hosted on the Tablelands this year - Open Water Swimming at Lake Barrine, and Shooting (Single Action & IPSC) at Mareeba Pistol Club.
Other exciting new sports added this year include Futsal, Indoor Rowing, Pickleball, Squash, Underwater Hockey and Wakeboarding, alongside all the other favourites.
Registrations are open and can be done online at www.gbrmg.com.au
SENIOR sportspeople from the region can now enter to compete in the Australian Masters Games to be held in Canberra in October.
The AMG is one of the nation’s most exciting and inclusive multisport events and is officially open for registrations via the AMG website. This iconic event will take place from 18 to 25 October 2025 and will see thousands of masters athletes converge on the nation’s capital, Canberra.
The Australian Masters Games is a biennial multisport event for
masters athletes regardless of ability, or experience. Founded in 1987, the AMG were the first games specifically created for masters athletes and they have become a cherished tradition in Australian sport, promoting health, wellness, and lifelong engagement.
With 30 sports (and counting) on offer currently, and more to come, the October event is sure to attract thousands from around the country.
AMG general manager Adam Drinkwell said it was exciting to welcome the masters community
back to Canberra for the 20th Australian Masters Games.
“The Australian Masters Games is a celebration of community, wellbeing, and the love of sport at any age - whether you’re here to win medals or just have fun, this event promises to create memories that will last a lifetime,” he said.
“We’re thrilled to invite athletes of all backgrounds back to Canberra for the first time since 2003.
“The AMG is a festival of sport, bringing friends together for competition and a week of good
times.”
To register, participants should go to the official Australian Masters Games website. There is currently 25% off the standard registration fee during the Gold Registration period, which is available now until 4 May.
The games are open to everyone aged 30 years old and above, regardless of skill level. Some sports have lower age minimums, such as gymnastics, which is 20 years old and above.
AVID runners and walkers can explore the Atherton Rail Trail this weekend by taking part in the Atherton Rail Trail Ramble which features a 5.9km and 12.5km track.
Attracting more than 150 competitors in its inaugural event last year, event organisers are now expecting 200 people this year.
The event will begin outside the Atherton Men’s Shed, located near the back of the Crystal Caves, where participants will choose to run the 5.9km track or the 12.5km one.
“The aim of the event is to advertise the Rail Trail and show the community benefits it generates,” event coordinator Tim Trehearn said.
“Come along to enjoy a run in a beautiful environment and enjoy the company of many other runners and walkers.”
The event is organised by Adventure Sport NQ, Billycart Brewery, and Take On Nepal.
The brewery are a key sponsor of the event and will be hosting a presentation ceremony afterwards which include a food van to order dinner from and a free beer for participants aged 18 or older.
They are also supplying many random draw prizes.
Take On Nepal is a trekking business operated out of Nepal. The owners are based in Cairns and are keen trail runners who are very supportive of Adventure Sport NQ.
They will also be providing random draw prizes.
The event will be held this Saturday from 4pm with registrations opening at 2.30pm.
Entries close tonight at 8pm and are only able to be made online via www.adventuresportnq.info, prices are $20 for under 18s or $40 for adults.
AFTER being postponed due to wet weather a couple of weeks ago, the Tinaroo Sailing Club will now be holding its Discover Sailing Day this Sunday for anybody interested in what the sport is all about.
The event will now run from 9am-11am in conjunction with a club day, meaning participants can stay on for a barbecue lunch and to watch some racing, with the chance of assisting a team as a crew member.
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.”
The Tinaroo Sailing Club is located down the end of Black Gully Road, Tinaroo.
The Discover Sailing Day requires participants to register online beforehand, to register visit www.tinaroosailingclub.com.au/ events/280064
CRICKET returned to the Far North on the weekend after two weeks of cancelled matches due to the wet conditions, but both local A Grade cricket clubs had no luck on the field.
Mareeba Bandits went down to Barron River in a rout, while Atherton also failed against the Rovers.
overs. Top scorers were Andrew Phelps (28) and Marcus Berryman (28 not out).
Luck was also not on Mareeba’s side in their match at Borzi Park against Barron River, with the visitors batting first and notching up a winning score of 7/186 off 40 overs.
Ruku Chilia and Angus Campman were the best of the Bandit’s bowlers, each taking two wickets.
Atherton missed their captain Tom Boorman, only managing to make 83 runs in 35 overs, with the two openers Charlie Lawrence and Alexander Nasser, going cheaply to Rovers’ key bowler Tom King who also claimed the scalp of Mathew Coleman.
Only two batsmen, acting captain Cameron Davis (28) and Tallas Blaney (11) got into double figures.
Joshua Chadwick was instrumental in taking the Atherton batting apart, notching up 3/11 off five overs.
The Rovers batsmen were untroubled by the Atherton bowlers, losing three wickets before they surpassed Atherton’s score. In the end, the Rovers scored the winning runs in just 13
But with David Coulthard smashing the ball around to score 94 not out (off 110 balls), and Braydn Croft tipping in 31, Mareeba was unable to hold their opposition back.
Charlie Howard (4/20) and Sean Prior (3/18) were the best of Barron River’s bowlers, while Remo Esposito (13) and Brendan Payne (18) were the only batsmen for Mareeba to get into double figures.
In the end, Mareeba were all out for just 62 runs in the 23rd over.
Next week, the local derby will see Atherton go up against Mareeba at Loder Park. Atherton is currently sitting third on the ladder, with Mareeba in sixth spot.
4x4 Wagon
36,000 kilometres, one local owner, tinting, tow bar, factory warranty until 6/2026.
2023 Ford Raptor 4x4 Dual Cab
Bull bar, power roller cover, sports bar, tow bar, only 7100kms, balance of 5 year warranty.
2022 Ford Escape ST Line 2WD $36,990
2.0 litre 8 speed auto, window tint, rubber mats, cargo mat, 7689 klms, balance of factory warranty to June 2028.
2019 Mazda BT-50 XTR $32,990
4x4 auto turbo diesel Extra-Cab utility, 12 months warranty.
2016 Toyota Rav4 GXL SUV
Build 12/16, 2.0L petrol 2WD automatic, window tint, dash mat, 12 months warranty, 6 months rego.
2021 Mitsubishi Exceed Tourer Outlander $42,990 AWD auto SUV, 51,000 klms, one owner, balance of factory warranty.
Nov 2018/Jan 2019 Mustang GT Fastback
$54,990 V8 manual, one owner, 19,200 kilometres, full sized spare, 12 months warranty.
