The Express Newspaper 26 February 2025

Distillery vies for big award

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

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

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

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

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

Barbed wire fence cut, stock escape

“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.”

POLICE are hunting the culprits who cut around 2km of barbed wire fencing at a Dimbulah property earlier this month.

Detectives from the Mareeba Stock Squad are investigating the wilful damage of stock fencing between February 4 and February 11 at a property on Metzger Road.

neighbouring properties.

lost cattle was between $8000 and $10,000.

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.

Police are appealing for anyone with information or who may have seen any persons or vehicles on Metzger Road, or anyone with relevant dashcam footage to come forward.

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

The barbed wire fencing was cut at various sections and, as a result, stock wandered onto the road and into

Mareeba Rural and Stock Crime Squad officer in charge Detective Sergeant Ben Cross said the estimated cost to the producers for the damaged fence and 100

“This has not only caused significant frustration for the property owners, but the actions of these people could cause serious harm to the community by allowing stock to wander onto the road,” he said.

“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.

“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.

MAREEBA gardeners are without a competition after the annual event was cancelled for 2025 by the Mareeba Rodeo Association.

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

The competition, usually held during the Mareeba Rodeo

festival, was dropped by the association in 2024, and it has now confirmed the event will no longer be a fixture under its administration.

“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.”

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

“At the end of the day, we are a Rodeo,” association president Peter Brown said.

“We’re urging anyone who may have seen suspicious behaviour or knows anything about this crime, to contact police.”

Disappointed gardeners with nowhere to go

The group claims they emailed and telephoned the association to discuss this year’s competition after the 2024 event was cancelled, and to offer their services to help. But they had had no response.

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.

ahead this year. He suggested that the gardeners wanting to have a competition should look to another body to hold the event or take it on themselves.

“As with every other club, our volunteer base is limited, and we just don’t have the resources to run it.”

“We have had no requests for help, otherwise we would have responded,” a spokesperson said on Wednesday.

Crackdown on feeding crocs

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

Mr Brown added that another factor was the low number of entries, which was why they cancelled the 2024 event.

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.

The garden competition was cancelled five days before nominations were to close last year, so there may well have been more contenders, the spokesperson continued.

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

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

Historically, the garden show was organised by the Mareeba Shire Council, but when the Rodeo grew, it was offered to the association as part of the festivities. Council confirmed last week that it was not capable of taking the competition back, as it did not have enough resources to cover the event.

“Some categories only had one nomination, that’s not an event,” 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.

However, a group of Mareeba shire gardeners are “bitterly disappointed” over the decision to permanently close the event.

The group says it has been trying to talk with the association ever since to prevent another cancellation.

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.

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.

The event was “fully resourced”, with prize money, sponsors, and even a judge, and the same people were locked in each year.

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.

“So many locals have contributed to the 56-year history of this event and shared their knowledge, enthusiasm and economic support to businesses within the community,” they said in a letter to the editor in this week’s newspaper.

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”.

But Mr Brown said that as far as he knew, “no one has reached out to us”.

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

The government has also significantly increased

He confirmed all other events, such as the CBD window displays, the downtown parade, and the Rodeo Queens, would go

“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.”

The spokesperson said the group hoped now that a service club or community club would come forward to take on the competition, running it as a charity event at another time of the year. The group of gardeners were too elderly to take it on as an event, but would be happy to volunteer for workshops, or provide rare plants as prizes, hold an online auction, and build up the profile of the competition.

“There are lots of ideas, and so many opportunities,” the spokesperson said.

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

The barbed wire fence that was cut at Dimbulah, allowing stock to escape.

Fight for survival of cash

By ANDREE STEPHENS

AN elderly Mareeba couple has highlighted the issues for people who still want to use cash to pay their bills, saying they were surprised and angry after being turned away twice when they tried to pay a gas bill by cash recently.

Myles and Rose Gostelow said they went to the BOC Gas office to pay their bill on 13 February, but were told cash was not accepted and they should try the post office. However, they were again unable to pay the bill.

“Why is our cash not legal tender?” they told The Express last week.

The couple, now in their 70s, had lived for many years at Koolburra Station before making the move into Mareeba.

They said they had been BOC Gas customers for decades and had always been able to pay their bills by sending a cheque in the mail. Now they were in town they assumed they could simply pay over the counter.

Although cash is legal tender, a business can legally refuse it provided it has another fee-free method of payment and has clearly communicated its cash policy before customers reach the checkout.

The couple said they did not own a computer, and while they had a mobile phone, it was not working properly since the change from 3G network to 4G and they didn’t know how to use it.

The issue is a key priority for Federal Member for Kennedy Bob Katter who has been very vocal in his bid to keep cash as a means of payment.

Last year, he exposed the Federal Parliament House café when they refused his cash payment for lunch, and it worked, with the café reinstating cash payments.

Last week, he made a submission to the government to mandate cash payments to ensure it remained a universally and legally accepted means of payment throughout Australia.

“The most reliable method of payment is cash and we will fight for its survival so we have

submitted our argument to the federal treasury demanding protection for cash to be legal tender and accepted without question,” he said.

He said that after consulting with people in his electorate and further afield, the key issues were the vulnerability of some segments of our communities in using technology, limited digital connectivity in regional and remote areas, disaster resilience, economic sovereignty and consumer choice.

“The banks and big businesses are trying to bully us into doing business their way but we will fight them at

Myles and Rose Gostelow were shocked when they couldn’t pay a bill with cash.

Member for Kennedy Bob Katter wants cash to remain legal tender.

every turn to make sure they are being fair and providing the services we need, when we need it,” Mr Katter said.

He said digital transactions also opened the door for scams, and banks should reimburse people when they had been “tricked out of their money”.

“We need to force banks to better protect people from scams. The best way to do this is to mandate that the banks reimburse people when they have been tricked out of their money and the banks have allowed these transactions to occur,” Mr Katter said.

“Additionally, during

natural disasters, some towns in the Kennedy electorate can be without power for weeks; this can mean limited or no mobile phone coverage, internet services, or EFTPOS, so cash is needed to do basic transactions when food and other goods become available.

“The Federal Government must act decisively to enshrine the right to use cash and mandate its acceptance across the economy.

“We call on the government to take immediate action to protect Australians’ right to choose how they pay and ensure that no one is excluded from the economy due to

the imposition of a cashless agenda.”

The government announced in November last year that it would conduct consultation on a national cash mandate which would require businesses to accept cash as payment for groceries, fuel and other essentials.

The move would likely be introduced in 2026 but was also considering exempting small businesses, health care services, basic banking services, and utilities.

The government is also expected to phase out cheques by September 2029.

InternationalWOMEN’S DAY LUNCHEON

FRIDAY 7TH MARCH, 2025

Queensland’s oldest butchery turns 111

By KONNOR FURBER

QUEENSLAND’s oldest butchery will be celebrating its 111th birthday in March and business owner Jimmy Malone plans to make it a special community event.

The Yungaburra Butchery, established in 1914, stands as the oldest operating butcher shop in Queensland, with the building itself being heritage-listed.

“It’s a good old butcher shop, and you only turn 111 once so you might as well have a bit of a party for it,” owner of two years, Jimmy said.

“It’s definitely something worth celebrating and it’ll be good for the town itself the whole way through.”

The celebration is set to be held on 22 March in conjunction with the monthly Yungaburra markets.

There will be a display of old butchery equipment supplied by the Herberton Historic Village all dated from when the butcher shop was originally built.

There will also be a live sausage-making demonstration coupled with a talk about the history of the shop and town, as well as a free sausage sizzle.

“People can come and have a look at all the old equipment and get a feel of what would’ve been in-store back in the day,” Jimmy said.

“I’ll also be doing live sausage making. I’ve got an old mincer that I’ll be using and I’m also trying to get my hands on a vintage sausage filler that I can use as well.

“I’ll be doing a bit of a talk as I’m making the sausages, about the town and about the butcher shop, just going through all the history.

“Every market weekend we do a donated sausage sizzle to a small community group, so they’ll be doing that on the day.

“I also found a really old cutout where people can stick their heads in and take a photo.”

It’s a good old butcher shop, and you only turn 111 once so you might as well have a bit of a party for it. “ ”

Originally from Cairns, Jimmy moved to Malanda when he was 12 and started working at a butcher shop in Malanda as “the clean-up kid”. He later left school at 15 to begin his apprenticeship as a butcher.

His love for life on the Tablelands only grew and he “hasn’t left the place since”.

“I’ve been employed here for about seven years, and I’ve owned it for two years now,” he said.

“I love being a butcher because I just love food, I like to cook as well, and just knowing

$5 million sewer upgrade

Lilydale free-range chicken as well.

“We also source our produce as locally as possible. Our cattle come from a farm about a fiveminute drive down the road, and all the pork comes from just outside of Atherton.

“It’s just the kind of shop where you know you can come and get something good, really.”

The butchery was built by the H.S William company, named after Henry William, who was one of the pioneers and founders of Yungaburra.

After his death, his family developed the company to continue his legacy.

They built an abattoir near Peeramon and then they opened the butcher shop in Yungaburra as the town was expanding.

Originally, Yungaburra was an overnight stop for people travelling up the old Gillies Range to work the goldfields and tin mines.

But at its foundation was the abundance of quality hardwood in the area, such as silky oak, Queensland maple, and red cedar, which drew more people in to work the (now closed) mill. Many of the streets are even named after those hardwoods.

Jimmy also has a special surprise for Tablelanders, with the promise of “bringing back the old classic” that is the Yungaburra Butchery radio ad.

MORE than $5 million has been awarded to Cairns-based Terranovus Civil Pty Ltd to upgrade the main sewer in Mareeba.

The Kenneally Road gravity sewer main upgrade project, which is still subject to the grant funding deed being signed by the State Government, will upgrade the trunk sewer main along Constance St from the rear of the Edge residential estate to Lloyd St.

At the Mareeba Shire Council meeting last week, it was confirmed that “in-principal” grant approval for the first stage of the project was given in November. An application for Stage 2 of the project was made last month.

Council has allocated funding under its 2024/25 capital budget with the balance subject to confirmation of the grant. The works would mitigate sewage overflows, meet the council’s environmental obligations and would provide sufficient capacity for existing and future growth.

Cr Mary Graham said the works were necessary to address manhole overflows.

“There’s been some issues at the top end of the town with regards to manholes and this rain we’ve been having, so hopefully when this one gets done it should alleviate the problem.”

the whole process really intrigues me.

“I’ve done work as a slaughterman, and I pride myself on being able to pick a good animal and from there work it the whole way through until someone’s there eating it.

“It’s kind of like how long’s a piece of string you know, like why is anyone so interested in a particular thing.

“It’s pretty cruisy as a butcher too, I’m not getting wet when it’s raining outside or I’m not sweating my butt off when it’s stinking hot.”

Over the years he’s spent living on the Tablelands, the 27-year-old has learned a great deal about the history of Yungaburra and is proud to continue the butchery’s legacy by providing good-quality products.

“We really pride ourselves on quality of work and over the last couple of years I’ve really been pushing for a more natural, healthier product,” Jimmy said.

“Including all natural sausages, with no preservatives or fillers, actually 100% grassfed beef with no GMOs or anything like that, and we use

The infamous radio ad song had locals turning up the dial when they heard the opening line, “If you like meat” - the catchy melody and clever lyrics burned into locals’ brains all over the Tablelands.

It was cancelled shortly after Jimmy assumed ownership of the shop for budgeting reasons and was then seemingly forgotten.

It will make its comeback in the weeks leading up to the celebration, where it will then stay on the radio circuit indefinitely.

Water & Waste manager Morris Hamill said the project, while focusing on the sewer main down Constance St, would complement further work on Lloyd St and “would help to a great extent”.

“The tricky little bit is down Lloyd St which technically needs to be done first, but it will come after, and once that’s all tied in, it will improve,” he said. He said a tender was expected to go out soon for the Lloyd St project.

“Both of those projects are critical to alleviate issues we’re having over Kenneally Road at the moment,” Mr Hamill said.

Yungaburra Butchery’s apprentice Marley (left) and owner Jimmy Malone gear up for the celebration.

The Yungaburra Butchery circa 1915.

Local man to learn the latest in suicide prevention

By KONNOR FURBER

A TABLELANDS man has been granted a bursary to attend the Lived Experience of Suicide Summit in Brisbane where he will learn the latest prevention techniques and share his knowledge through writing, speaking and various voluntary endeavours.

The event, focusing on emerging innovations in the suicide prevention space, is hosted by Australia’s lived experience of suicide organisation, Roses in the Ocean, and will run from 13-14 March.

Roses in the Ocean is an organisation made up of people who all have a lived experience of suicide. Meaning people who have been suicidal themselves, have a suicidal partner or family member, or have been bereaved by suicide (lost someone).

Steve Rothwell has called the Tablelands home for a number of years now and became passionate about suicide prevention after he lost a close friend to it.

“Helping others recover from the pain and dread of mental illness has been the greatest passion I have ever experienced,” he said.

He was awarded this opportunity after participating in a writing project organised by Roses in the Ocean workshop last year, Voices of In-Sight, and was funded by Northern Queensland Primary Health

Network to attend the summit.

“It’s quite humbling, and I’m grateful that I am able to attend the event, but at the same time I feel that it’s a responsibility,”

Steve said.

“I want to go and find out what’s going on in that essential suicide prevention space and I’ve no doubt there’ll be innovations that haven’t made their way up here yet.

“I hope to come back and spread the knowledge I have learned to bring about a whole lot more emotional literacy.”

The northern and southern Tablelands together have a 92% higher (per 100,000) suicide rate than the southern Cairns region and a 45% higher (per 100,000) rate than the northern Cairns region, despite a vast population difference.

“In rural areas there can be very hard-struggle existences, fewer opportunities, long-term unemployment, or a variety of isolation that doesn’t always happen in the city,” he said.

In Australia, 75% of suicides are all male and a common theme Steve has noticed amongst suicidal people is that “they’re frightened of being alive and suffering, rather than being dead”.

“People who have been suicidal have said this, and I think it stems from the fear of suffering,” he said.

“They feel like they’re in imminent danger. There’s the

pain of the moment and then there’s the dread of still feeling that tomorrow.

“Ultimately, suicidal feelings don’t signal the end of your life, they signal a need to seek help so that you can diminish the pain and get on with a better, more resilient life.”

Steve wishes that everybody who is suicidal realises that their mind has been “hijacked”, in a sense, and that what they’ve become is “their own unreliable narrator” of their life.

“That’s not to say the thoughts aren’t real, because they very much are,” he said.

“You should seek help straight away or even try to write your problems on paper so that you can take them out of your mind and see them from a different perspective.

“I would also like to encourage people to get involved on a voluntary basis with operations like Roses in the Ocean, because anybody can do it.

“I think what motivates me and others in this area is we want to prevent the suffering and prevent the pain and dread that can be so powerful in people’s lives.”

To find more information about Roses in the Ocean, visit www.rosesintheocean.com.au

“These two organisations are the big engines of suicide prevention work and research in Australia, and I take my hat off to them,” Steve said.

Steve’s work on trauma recovery can be found via www. reliefandhope.life

If you need help in a crisis, call Lifeline on 13 11 14.

For further information about depression, contact Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636 or talk to your GP, local health professional or someone you trust.

Upgrade plan for Malanda gymnastics

MALANDA Gymnastics is moving to upgrade its premises, with Tablelands Regional Council supporting the plan.

Cr Dave Bilney said the building was an older structure that needed modifications to meet contemporary needs by the “burgeoning numbers” enjoyed by the club which has around 180 active members.

The club is proposing a three-phase upgrade of its facilities, starting with the installation of two roller doors to improve airflow and allow for better ventilation and temperature control; insulation to maintain a consistent temperature and reduce energy costs; and replacing 10 outdated light fittings with energy-efficient LED lighting to provide brighter and more even illumination, four additional power outlets and four more fans.

Phase 2 includes the expansion of the building by erecting an adjoining shed, and Phase 3 would involve upgrading the amenity and kitchen facilities and updating equipment in the hall, such as a tumble track and foam pit.

The club will be applying for grant funding through the Queensland Gambling Community Benefit Fund for the proposed works and requested a letter of support from the council for the first phase of the project which council agreed to provide.

New road plan for Edge Estate

RESIDENTS of the Edge Estate will have a second road out of the estate following approval of a “minor change” to the layout of 80 lots planned for development.

Mareeba Shire Council first signed off on the estate in 2007 and agreed to the change last week, which was triggered by the Department of Transport and Main Roads decision not to proceed with the resumption of 2.49 hectares of the site.

This change application provides opportunity for council to require a connection road through proposed Lot 5, linking The Edge Estate and an undeveloped low density residential zoned property to the north which is currently being assessed for development.

Council was told the estate currently has “no backup road” or secondary exit in case of flood, fire or road accident and would enhance the development.

Funds request for rail trail rejected

By ROBYN HOLMES

COUNCILLORS have rejected a request to take $54,000 from Tablelands Regional Council’s fleet budget to boost the funds available to fix a rail trail crossing for cyclists.

To fix the rail crossing at Rocky Creek will now require a budget of $189,896, with $100,000 to be funded by grants and $45,000 currently in council funds. The job is to be done by a private contractor.

But officers say to complete the whole project, another $54,896 would be required and recommended it be taken from the fleet budget which was underspent.

“This recommendation does not increase the 2024/25 capital program but rather moves already approved funds from one project to another,” a report to the January council meeting stated.

But Crs Kevin Cardew and Con Spanos made it clear they did not think the funds should be taken from the fleet budget.

Cr Cardew said he would not agree to spending money earmarked for fleet to “prop up” the rail trail.

“How can we justify taking $54,000 out of the fleet renewal project budget and throw into the other project?” he said.

“Haven’t we put enough into this rail trail? When’s it going to stop?

“I would think that our fleet renewal project would be far more important than throwing this money – ratepayers’ money –into this project.

“Our fleet is diminishing – we need additional fleet to have the capacity to do inhouse projects like fix our roads, fix our potholes, and fix our drainage. Buy a bobcat with it.

“I do not support taking money out of our fleet budget to prop up a crossing for push bikes at Rocky Creek.”

Officers told the councillors that the fleet ordered would not come until next financial year and advised that the budget

was underspent.

Cr Cardew suggested that if the budget was underspent, there were other useful ways to utilise the funds.

Cr Spanos said he had personally ridden to the area and viewed the damage and questioned why the council could not undertake the job rather than sending it out to a private contractor.

“I think that at some stage we could possibly repair that with our own resources, just enough to make it a bike trail, rather than having to spend nearly $200,000 to repair that small section under the bridge.

“I rode it the other day and had to get off my bike to get across – remember guys, this is a bike trail, this isn’t a road, it’s a bike trail.

“I feel the same as Kev – these funds can be allocated elsewhere.”

Council rejected the recommendation to use the fleet money for the bike trail project, with Crs Cardew, Spanos, Lang and Haydon voting against it.

McInnes and Keoni Whiteside, who handed the students their badges. Special guests in attendance included Mayor Angela Toppin and the department of education’s FNQ regional director Shirlee Gallo, who presented badges to all the student leaders.

The student leaders included the school captains, sports and academic captains, indigenous leaders, student council, and interyear leaders.

Leo Balzarolo was also announced as the Senior Dux of 2024 after achieving an ATAR score of 97.65.

He is now enrolled in a Bachelor of Engineering at the University of Queensland.

The evening ended with school captions Toby Fealy and Velenia Musso-Tatti leading the seniors in the school pledge and the special tradition of the cutting of the senior cake with Mareeba State School’s school captains.

This tradition was extra special this year with Toby and his little brother Kipp both leading their respective schools as school captains.

Mareeba State High School’s class of 2025.

Register today for Mareeba Shire Council’s

Pre-Qualified Supplier List!

If you offer qualified trade services, professional services or occasional plant, and would like to do business with Mareeba Shire Council we want to hear from you!

Mareeba Shire Council is now accepting applications for the following registers, which offer you an opportunity to be considered for upcoming projects and contracts.

Register of Pre-Qualified Suppliers (ROPS) - Trades and Professional Services

Register of Pre-Qualified Suppliers (ROPS) - Occasional Plant

Why Register?

Work with the Mareeba Shire Council on exciting community projects

Get access to local projects

Increase your business visibility

How to Register:

1.

2.

Visit Our Website: Go to https://msc.qld.gov.au/council/tenders/ and navigate to the "Current Tenders, Quotes and Expressions of Interest" page.

Register on VendorPanel: Registration is free, takes only a few moments to complete and as an added bonus your business profile will also be visible to other external companies

https://info.vendorpanel.com/workwithmareebashirecouncil/

3.

4.

Upload Documents: Include necessary documents like licenses, insurances, and references.

Assessment: The Council will assess all applications to ensure suppliers meet the necessary criteria. Successful applicants will be included on the Register of Pre-Qualified Supplier (ROPS). The ROPS arrangement is a nonexclusive panel of suppliers and is not limited in the number of suppliers that will be appointed. Please note that inclusion on the ROPS does not guarantee the Supplier a commitment for future engagement for goods and services during the Term.

Free exercise program’s back

THE popular free Rural Active Women exercise program for older women is back and this time, Tablelands Regional Council has extended the program to include sessions for older men.

The free programs aim to increase physical activity participation among people aged 50+ on the Tablelands, contributing to their overall health and wellbeing.

The Rural Active Women’s program focuses on strengthening core muscle groups, improving cardiovascular fitness and joint range of movement, resistance-based exercises and improving functional strength to aid in falls prevention.

The new Rural Active Men’s program will concentrate on cardio and strength.

An accredited exercise physiologist will demonstrate, instruct and supervise participants.

Places are limited so register at www.trc.qld.gov. au/rural-active-program or call 1300 362 242 by

Thursday 6 March.

Rural Active Women Program Cardio and Strength Circuits – Tuesdays 9-10am at Merriland Hall, Atherton. Choose from: 11 March to 1 April or 20 May to 10 June.

Hydrotherapy – Wednesdays 23 April to 14 May, Atherton Pool. Choose from: 11.30am-12.15pm or 12.30pm-1.15pm.

Core Strengthening Pilates, Chair Aerobics and Zumba – Thursdays 9-10am at Merriland Hall, Atherton. Choose from: 13 March to 3 April or 22 May to 12 June.

Rural Active Men Program

Cardio and Strength Circuit classes – 10.15am11.15am Tuesdays at Merriland Hall, Atherton. Choose from: 11 March to 1 April or 20 May to 10 June.

Dog patrol set for Dimbulah

A CRACKDOWN on stray dogs will begin in Dimbulah next month following approval of a new inspection program by Mareeba Shire Council.

“Councillors, you are well aware we have received many complaints from Dimbulah residents about wandering dogs in that community so this is absolutely essential,” Mayor Angela Toppin said at the meeting,

with agreement from councillors that it was long overdue.

Council officers will begin patrolling for wandering dogs and conducting spot registration and microchip checks in March for a three-month program.

“Council officers will doorknock in Dimbulah and surrounding areas to check that dogs are safely contained on properties to prevent dogs

from wandering into the streets and becoming lost, injured or potentially harming other dogs or people,” Mayor Toppin said. She also reiterated the importance of registration of dogs to council so that if they were lost and taken to the pound owners could be contacted promptly.

Keeping contact details up to date was also important for renewal notices.

Clean up event for Mareeba

MAREEBA residents can help clean up areas of their town by joining with the Mareeba Lions who are organising an event to coincide with Clean Up Australia Day in March.

and the Bicentennial Lakes area from Rankin Street to the Granite Creek.

Sturdy enclosed footwear, gloves and protective equipment must be worn.

Deadline to Apply: Thursday, 20 March 2025 at 11:00am.

Deadline to Apply: Thursday, 20 March 2025 at 11:00am.

Don’t miss out on this opportunity!

For inquiries, contact us on 1300 308 461 or email tenders@msc.qld.gov.au

LOCATION: Rail Trail and Bicentennial Lakes

DATE: Sunday March 2nd @ 7.30am

CONTACT: Tom Braes 0488 591 318

The club is planning to host the cleanup on 2 March and are asking those who have a couple of hours to spare to join them.

The exact location of the starting point is yet to be determined but the area to be cleaned up is the rail trail from McIvor Road to Rankin Street,

Anyone interested is asked to register online or just turn up on the day and register. Go to https://register.cleanup.org.au/ fundraisers/tombraes to register. For more information, email lionsmba@gmail.com

The half-yearly rate notices for the six-month period ending 30 June 2025 have been issued. If you have not received your rate notice, please contact the Rates Department via email info@msc.qld.gov.au or call 1300 308 461.

RECEIVE YOUR RATE NOTICE ELECTRONICALLY (eNotices)

Go electronic and receive your next rates notice via email. eNotices allows you to view your notice at any time and sends notices to multiple email addresses. Find your eNotices Reference Number on the back of your rates notice to register.

PAYMENT PORTAL - FLEXIPAY

Our payment portal allows you to pay your rates or easily set up a direct debit payment arrangement. You can choose to make payments weekly, fortnightly or monthly.

Scan the QR code on your rate notice or visit mareeba-pay.enotices.com.au to pay or set up a direct debit arrangement. You can pay via Visa, Mastercard, Bank Account, Google Pay or Apple Pay.

INTEREST FREE ARRANGEMENTS

No interest will be charged on approved arrangements for current outstanding rates and charges, provided the payment plan is adhered to.

FOR EARLY PAYMENT

To receive the 10% discount on your general rates, all rates and charges must be paid and received by Council by 28 March 2025. Council does not take responsibility for the late processing of electronic payments by third parties.

PENSIONER REBATE

A pensioner rebate may also apply to those holding a State Government Pensioner Concession Card or Repatriation Gold Card.

For more information, refer to your rates notice, our website or contact Council.

Peter Franks Chief Executive Officer PO Box 154 MAREEBA

Shellie earns top spot

IN just a year after starting her own real estate business, Shellie Nightingale has notched up some pretty impressive achievements.

Real estate has been the focus of Shellie’s career for just over seven years now, spending the first six with a corporate agency in Malanda. But just over a year ago, she decided to take the leap and open her own business and since then, has managed to rise to the top, earning her a place in the Top 100 real estate agents in Australia.

Shellie was recently awarded several accolades from the national entity, Rate My Agent, winning the Agency of the Year Award for Malanda, Herberton and Peeramon.

This has come after receiving more than 400 positive reviews on Rate My Agent.

For Shellie, real estate is not about houses or property – it’s about people.

“People are selling for a reason. They could be upsizing or downsizing,

it could be because they can’t afford to keep a property, or their circumstances have changed – a relationship may have broken down or their health is not good, so to me, it’s not about the sale, it’s about the reason they are selling,” she said.

Her genuine interest in finding the right property that fulfils the buyer’s and seller’s goals is why the talented real estate professional sold 62 properties last calendar year. She has already stitched up 11 contracts to date this year.

The secret to her success?

“Being honest and having empathy and just being kind to people, treating everyone the same,” she said.

“I have repeat clients – you know you’re doing a good job because people come back to you in the future. A referral is your best compliment.

“My greatest enjoyment is seeing people find the right home – I love what I do.

“At night time, I don’t just go home and watch TV, I’m looking at realestate.

com – I probably eat, breathe and live real estate.”

Shellie’s daughter Sasha has joined the business and says her mother has always put her clients first.

“Even when we’re eating dinner, she will answer the phone – she will say ‘they have been trying to reach me’ so she will take the call.”

At times, Shellie has gone above and beyond to look after her clients.

“I can remember one of my sales a few years ago, this gentleman had lost his power in Cyclone Larry and he couldn’t afford to get his power back on so had been without for years. I couldn’t just leave him to pack up his house on his own, so for three days, I helped him – I must admit I do go above and beyond to make people happy,” she said.

She cares so much about her clients that recently she wouldn’t accept a buyer’s offer for a property they hadn’t seen until they travelled to the region to see it to ensure they loved it.

Police crack down on youth crime

TEN youngsters have been charged with more than 50 offences as officers from the Tablelands Criminal Investigation Branch (CIB) crack down on youth crime.

Detectives also charged two other men last week with serious offences connected to 17 February theft of a vehicle while a teenager was still in the back seat.

The incident occurred about 4pm after a woman exited a running Nissan Dualis on Lloyd Street, and an 18-year-old man jumped into the driver’s seat.

A teenager was able to exit the backseat of the vehicle before the man drove away. Police allege the vehicle was later involved in multiple fuel drive offs and other offences in the Mareeba, Kuranda, Atherton, Craiglea and Cairns areas. At around 4pm on 18 February, both men were located in bushland at Kuranda after the vehicle was subjected to a tyre deflation device. The two 18-year-olds, from Dimbulah and Mareeba, will now face the Mareeba Magistrate’s Court on 10 March.

Protection Investigation Unit, POLAIR and Far North Tactical Crime Squad were called following the theft of a Toyota Hilux from an Allara Street property on 14 February around 5.30am.

It is alleged a group of four teenagers drove the vehicle dangerously around Mareeba, before abandoning it around 1pm near Granite Creek and fleeing on foot. All four were located a short distance away.

The week prior, police from the Far North Dog Squad, Mareeba Station, Mareeba Child

Police charged a 17-year-old Manoora boy with two counts of unlawful use of a motor vehicle, and one count each of dangerous operation of a vehicle, attempted

enter dwelling with intent, enter premises and commit indictable offence and breach of bail, as well as a 16-year-old Mareeba boy who was charged with three counts of unlawful use of a motor vehicle, two counts each of enter dwelling and commit and stealing, and one count each of armed robbery, evasions, enter premises and commit indictable offence, and receiving tainted property.

A 15-year-old Tully girl and a 16-year-old Innisfail Estate boy were also charged with similar offences.

In addition, six young people handed themselves into police on

14 February following investigations by Tablelands Detectives into several property offences in Kuranda.

It will be alleged the group was involved in the break and enter of a Therwine Street restaurant, a Rob Veivers Drive business and Thooree Street post office on 10 February.

The teenagers – three from Kuranda, one from Mareeba, one from Hopevale and one from Atherton – were charged with a number of offences.

Country and Cape Crime Group Detective Inspector Jason Chetham said police would con-

MAREEBA SHIRE COUNCIL - COMMUNITY UPDATE

Approved Inspection Program for Dogs in Dimbulah and Surrounds

tinue to target serious property offenders causing harm in the community.

“Police are continuing to conduct proactive, high-visibility patrols to deter and disrupt offending in Tablelands communities,” he said.

“We want residents to be, and feel safe, and will do everything we can to seek justice for victims.

“We are grateful for the support and collaboration of local Kuranda residents in helping resolve this matter and will continue to work with the community to keep them safe.”

Rates Notices Issued

Due date: 28 March 2025

Join Us for the Councillors Connecting with Community in Dimbulah and Speewah!

6 00pm Thursday, 6 March 2025 at Dimbulah Memorial Hall

5 30pm Monday, 24 March 2025 at Speewah Rural Fire Brigade, 8 William Smith Dr

Council is inviting the community to meet the Councillors in an informal setting This is a great opportunity for residents to discuss what matters most in their community

We ll be sharing important updates and seeking community views, we look forward to welcoming you for a chat over a cuppa!

Council officers will door-knock in Dimbulah and surrounding areas to check that dogs are safely contained on properties to prevent them from wandering into the streets and becoming lost, injured or potentially harming other dogs and people

Council will also be checking if dogs are registered and microchipped

This decision was made after Council received several complaints in the Dimbulah area about wandering dogs

The program will begin in March 2025 and will run for approximately three months

Great Wheelbarrow Race Committee Chair

The half-yearly rate notices for the six-month period ending 30 June 2025 have been issued

If you have not received your rate notice please contact the Rates Department via email info@msc qld gov au or call 1300 308 461

Sign up to receive your next rates notice via email To register, find your eNotices Reference Number on the back of your rates notice

Illegal dumping

Illegal dumping is against the law and there are penalties in place for those found to be doing the wrong thing.

You can help to keep our Shire clean by reporting illegal dumping to Council on 1300 308 461 or call 13 QGOV (13 74 68).

At the February Council meeting Cr Ross Cardillo was appointed to the Great Wheelbarrow Race Advisory Committee as Chair, following the recent passing of the previous Chair, Cr Kevin Davies, in January 2025

“Cr Kevin Davies has been a part of the Great Wheelbarrow Race for many years, and I would like to sincerely thank him for his immense contributions Cr Davies’ advocacy was a key reason the event was showcased on Sunrise last year, raising awareness for the Mareeba Shire on a national scale,” said Cr Ross Cardillo

“The Great Wheelbarrow Race is one of our region’s biggest events, and I look forward to working with the committee and the community to help deliver this iconic race for its 22nd year,” said Cr Cardillo

Teams follow the 140km Wheelbarrow Way, starting on Friday, 9 May 2025 in Mareeba and concluding on Sunday, 11 May 2025 in Chillagoe Registrations are open until Wednesday, 30 April 2025 and interested participants can learn more and register on the Great Wheelbarrow Race website

Reports can also be lodged online on the Department of Environment and Science's website or sent to illegaldumping@des qld gov au

This project is proudly supported by the Queensland Government.

Real Estate agent Shellie Nightingale has risen to the top over the last 12 months.

Special IWD luncheon

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.

The Mareeba event is being hosted by The Express and Mareeba Lions Club and will be held at the Mareeba International Club on Friday 7 March from 12 noon to 2pm.

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.

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.

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.

Tickets for the Mareeba luncheon are now available online and close on 3 March. Go to www. trybooking.com/CZAIV

Swaine to stand up for Kennedy

A FORMER police officer has put her hand up to take on one of the most experienced Federal politicians in history in the hope she can win the seat of Kennedy at the upcoming election.

With Prime Minister yet to call the election, the LNP is moving to get candidates on the ground, with Annette Swaine stepping up to take on Bob Katter.

Mr Katter has been a Federal representative since 1993 and, before that, a State representative since 1974, but that doesn’t phase Ms Swaine.

“One thing I have learned in my career is to have courage, I’m also tenacious so I don’t give up.

“I’m hearing from people in the electorate that they absolutely want change. We’re heading down the wrong track and we’ve been neglected for far too long.

“To be in Parliament for the number of years he (Katter) has deserves respect but things have to change is what I’m hearing.”

Based at Flying Fish Point, Ms Swaine has lived in the Kennedy electorate since 2006 and served in the Queensland police force for many years, stationed at Innisfail, Mt Isa and Cardwell, after which she ran a small tourism business.

As a volunteer for many community groups, Ms Swaine said she had heard and witnessed how the cost-of-living crisis is hurting many families and small businesses. That is what is spurring her on.

“I want to make a difference to the lives of people living in this electorate, being so involved in the community, I know how people are struggling at the moment – I’m angry I guess and I think I’m with the right party to make a difference,” she said.

“I know people who are having to decide what meat they can afford, people are struggling to pay their electricity bills and we were promised this would be reduced.

“People were going to get $275 less a year in electricity costs (under Labor) - all these

broken promises, everything is going up … it’s skyrocketing.

“We have to pull it back, I know a lot of people in small business, in cafes and restaurants, they are in dire straits. If we don’t reduce the cost of living, what’s going to happen to them?”

She said listening to people in the electorate was critical to enable her to articulate what is needed in the Kennedy electorate.

“We can never give up, we have to keep shouting as to what we need,” she said, referring to much-needed upgrades to the Bruce Highway and inland transport routes to prevent the region being cut off from supplies in extreme weather events.

Ms Swaine believed that people should be voting for a candidate that has an opportunity to be part of government and not an independent who may not have any sway to deliver change.

LNP candidate for Kennedy Annette Swaine with LNP leader Peter Dutton who, she says, has what it takes to be a strong Prime Minister.

New student leaders step up

The

Mareeba Mayor Angela

The new school captains are Mateo, Kipp, Imogen and Macauley, while the new indigenous leaders are Alira, Lenaya, and Jakari. The sports captains for Granite are Jacob and Jordan, Mitchell’s captains are Alexis and Braxton, and Barron’s captains are brothers Trae and BJ. The cultural leaders include Imogen as the Auslan captain and Alana as the instrumental music captain.

More events on the horizon

By ANDREE STEPHENS

THE Mareeba shire will have another major venue for festivals and other events following a change in conditions for a property development near Emerald Creek.

In a turn-around from the council, the proposal to host events at the Kanjini property has had strict conditions softened so more people can attend, lifting capacity from 3,500 to 8,000 overall, and raising the maximum capacity at a second event site from 500 to 3,000 people a year.

The move opens the way for two festivals and up to 14 more smaller events, ranging from weddings, music camps, circus training camps, charity events, and Indigenous forums such as the annual Firesticks Alliance forum. In a close decision last

Wednesday, council voted 3-2

(Cr Lenore Wyatt was absent from the meeting) in favour of the changes.

The compromise followed a challenge by the property to the “unreasonable, unfair and extremely and excessively restrictive” conditions placed on the development approval by council in October last year which had cut back the number of attendees proposed from 12,000 people to 3,500.

“It allowed for either two larger events, or one large event and five small functions per year making the whole development uneconomical,” Freshwater Planning Pty argued on behalf of Kanjini, adding that it would take “well over 50 years to recoup the development approvals costs”.

Kanjini is a 2,820 hectare rural property which hosts bush camping at 13 sites and has

successfully held the Kuranda Roots Festival for the past four years. It is also known for hosting scientists, community groups, and charity events.

The approved development will allow for the establishment of two event sites and a function facility, as well as six more campsites, 10 RV/caravan sites and eight tourist cabins over a four-staged development.

Introducing the motion to council at its meeting last week, Mayor Angela Toppin supported the changes and the potential for the shire.

“We do want to see development in our shire, we all have people who don’t like change, and we have to consider their concerns,” she said.

“You will recall that when Savannah in the Round was tabled here for consideration there was some impacts there on amenity but the great economic

benefits that we gained from Savannah in the Round have been extremely positive for our shire.

“This application will bring visitors to our shire and, yes, there are impacts and these have been considered, and these impacts have been conditioned very stringently by our council officers.”

Cr Nipper Brown opposed the changes, claiming the development would increase traffic and have impacts that conflicted with the rural zoning guides.

“My concerns primarily relate to the significant increase in traffic movements and the resulting adverse impacts on the rural amenities which directly conflicts with the performance outcomes six against the rural zone code,” he said.

He said the increased numbers of people would

increase car traffic by more than double and, at event site 2, would increase by 300%.

“This substantial increase raises serious concerns regarding road safety, frequent traffic disruptions, congestion, road maintenance costs and high accident risks,” he continued.

He said the impact of higher frequency of events, with up to 14 at event Site 2, would “reduce residents’ enjoyment of their properties”, disrupt the character of the precinct and set a precedent for other rural zoned areas.

Cr Brown said the changes contradicted the rural zoning intention, transforming a low impact rural zone to a high traffic event precinct.

Cr Ross Cardillo said he supported Cr Brown’s comments and added that the erosion pressure on roads would be too much.

Cr Mary Graham asked for clarification on road and traffic conditions and was told roads to the property would be assessed before the development and any works required – road widening, signage, engineer approvalswould be carried out.

The roads would also be compared before and after an event to assess any damage and repairs carried out by the developers.

The development attracted 39 public submissions to the original application with 12 in support and the rest “largely comprising of similar letters expressing concerns about potential noise nuisance and traffic impacts for Kay Road”. Further amendments to the conditions included minor clarifications to lighting, water supply, and noise.

THE new student leaders for Mareeba State School were announced and given their leader badges at a special school parade last week.

parade introduced the new school captains, indigenous leaders, sports captains, cultural leaders and student council to lead the school in 2025.

Toppin was in attendance to help present badges to some of the leaders.

School captains Kipp (left), Imogen, Mateo and Macauley, cut the student leader cake with indigenous leaders Lanaya, Alira and Jakari.

Principal Kylie Cochran with Auslan captain Imogen and instrumental music captain Alana.

A Lifestyle You’ll Love:

 Italian-style piazza & café culture

 Gym, heated pool & hair salon

 Beautiful communal gardens & landscaping

 Secure, gated community with village manager

 Lockable garage with extra storage

 24/7 emergency response & on-site care options

 Doctor & nurse available ...and more!

HOW TO ENTER: Bring this invitation to our Group Presentation

DATE: Tuesday 11 March 2025 | TIME: 11am |

The Names that made M a reeba

by Michael Musumeci

Costin family made their mark

TODAY, Costin Street is well known as the entrance to our beautiful Mareeba Pioneer Cemetery, as well as many residential and businesses who live and operate along this street.

But it was in 1961 c. when the street was officially named, to honour the life of John Arthur Costin, a resident, a pharmacist, and made our township with his family.

Today he rests with his loving wife within the Pioneer Cemetery.

John Arthur Costin was born and raised in Gympie, Qld on 27 July 1876, to parents William John and Mary Ann (Markwell) Costin.

He was one of 11 children, attending the old Norman Grammar School in Brisbane, and was one of 57 students who passed the scholarship examination, to attend university earning his Degree in Pharmacy in 1897.

He worked along the coast until settling in Mareeba in 1906.

On 1 March 1911, he married Ruby Isabel Love, who was a daughter of a pioneering family.

On their honeymoon they travelled south and on the journey back was onboard the ill-fated SS “Yongala”, a passenger steam ship that was built in England in 1903 for the Adelaide Steamship Company.

They disembarked from the Yongala whilst in Mackay and by sheer luck were late on returning. They missed the departure time at 1.40pm as the Yongala steamed out of Mackay. Tragically the SS Yongala went down during a severe tropical cyclone about 48 nautical miles southeast of Townsville with all 122

souls on board lost at sea on 23 March 1911. There were no survivors.

John Arthur represented North Queensland in rugby union, and was a keen cyclist and gymnast, and, in latter years, played lawn bowls. He was interested in community affairs, being one of the original members of the Mareeba Show Association, an elder of the Presbyterian Church and a past President of the Mareeba Rotary.

The Costin family lived on the corner of Walsh and Middlemiss Streets in about 1906, in which John Arthur built the house.

John and Ruby had many children, Robert in 1912, Isabel in 1913, Arthur 1915, Marion 1917, David in 1926 and Keith in 1920.

Arthur, David and Keith all served in the Second World War, and tragedy came to family with the loss of their son Keith.

His son, Keith Hamilton Costin, was a Private in the Second World War. He was attached to the 2/10th Field Ambulance, Aust Medical Corps, and was one of over 2000 prisoners of war, held in the Sandaken POW Camp in North Borneo, having been transferred there from Singapore as a part of B Force.

The 1494 POWs that made up B Force, were transported from Changi on 7 July 1942 on board the tramp ship Ubi Maru, arriving in Sandakan Harbour on 18 July 1942. Private Costin, aged 24, died as a prisoner of the Japanese on 21 June 1945.

John was still riding his bike to and from work six weeks before he passed away on the 11th June 1957. He was 82 years of age.

The SS Yongala – John and Ruby luckily missed the depature of the ship from Mackay in 1911 after which it sank off Townsville.

The Costin Street sign and Keith Hamilton Costin.

Our Council Our Community

Rate Notices

Rate notices have been issued and payments must to be cleared by Monday 24 March for the 2.5% discount to apply. Get in touch if your notice hasn’t arrived — check your junk mail folder if you receive your notice by email.

We may be able to set up an agreed arrangement if you are having difficulty paying your rates. Get in touch within 60 days from the date of issue of the notice so we can organise weekly, fortnightly or monthly instalments.

Advance payments can be made at any time. Contact us to work out how much to pay and how often. Check in if you are making regular payments towards your rates and would like to know if you will be paid up by the due date. Remember we have concessions for pensioners, not-for-profit organisations and community groups.

Find out more at trc.qld.gov.au/rates

Join Our Team

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

Traineeships & Apprenticeship

We are offering nine traineeships and one apprenticeship.

• Logistic Operations Traineeship

• Systems Support Traineeship

• Legal and Governance Traineeship

• Libraries and Galleries Traineeship

• Community Development Traineeship

• Customer Relations Traineeship

• Regulatory Services Traineeship

• People and Culture Traineeship

• Land Protection and Nursery Traineeship

• Parks and Gardens Apprenticeship. Apply at trc.qld.gov.au/careers until 5pm Wednesday 5 March.

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

TABLELAND REGIONAL GALLERY

Program & Project Update

We’ll be working on these projects and programs in March (weather and resources permitting):

• Slashing in Evelyn, Herberton, Maalan, Millaa Millaa, Moregatta, Ravenshoe, Tolga, Tumoulin, Walkamin and Wondecla.

• Grading in Malanda and Walkamin.

• Priors Creek Parklands in Atherton.

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

• New reservoir in Malanda.

• New water intake pontoon and infrastructure in Yungaburra.

• Restoration of roads damaged by monsoons and flooding.

• Replacement of damaged picnic shelter at Malanda Falls.

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

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

• Renewal of a section of Wongabel Road, Wongabel.

• Gravel resheet program across the region.

• Bitumen reseal program across the region.

• Solar panel installation on TRC buildings. Follow these and other projects and programs at trc.qld.gov.au/projects

Event Sponsorship

Are you hosting an event or activity next financial year that needs our support? Apply for cash sponsorship at trc.qld.gov.au/event-sponsorship by Monday 10 March.

trc.qld.gov.au/request-a-service info@trc.qld.gov.au

1300 362 242 (including after hours for emergencies)

Customer service centres in Atherton, Herberton, Malanda and Ravenshoe

By Linda Bates, Catherine Devine and Tina Jacobson. On display Tuesday 4 March to Saturday 26 April. Exhibition opening 5pm Friday 7 March.

FOYER GALLERY

By Songriver Photography Group On display until Friday 28 March

OLD POST OFFICE GALLERY

Reopens Tuesday 11 March

Council Meetings

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

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

Major Grants

Up to $6000 over two rounds/year.

Small Grants Up to $1000 at any time.

More Info & Apply trc.qld.gov.au/radf-grants by Monday 31 March.

Free Exercise Programs For

men and women aged 50+

Fun and social

All fitness levels

Supported by health professionals

Various sessions between March and June 2025

Find out more at trc.qld.gov.au/free-fitness.

Register at trc.qld.gov.au/rural-active-program by Thursday 6 March or call 1300 362 242

Customer service centres in Atherton, Herberton, Malanda and Ravenshoe

Snake bites on the rise

HEALTH authorities are urging the public to stay alert for snake activity following a sharp rise in snake bite cases at hospital emergency departments in 2024, with Cairns having one of the highest numbers of snake bite presentations. Emergency departments handled 15% more snake bites across the State last year compared to 2023 figures, going from 1,094 presentations to 1,257 in 2024.

In December 2024 alone, Queensland’s public hospital emergency departments recorded 160 presentations related to snake bites, representing the highest number recorded in a single month for all of 2024. This trend began early in 2024, with 159 presentations in January and 155 in February – a 35% increase on the same months in 2023.

Taskforce to tackle red tape for councils

LOCAL councils may have less red tape to deal with after the State Government announced the establishment of a taskforce to look at ways to streamline approvals and reduce barriers for council projects.

Highly respected public sector executive Andrew Chesterman will lead the Local Government Red Tape Reduction Taskforce which will engage with councils across the State to find ways they can deliver more for their communities.

The taskforce will focus on identifying opportunities that support efficient and effective council infrastructure project delivery, save money for Queensland ratepayers and enhance long-term council sustainability.

Consultation will commence from this month, with the taskforce due to deliver a report on its findings to the government by 30 June.

Minister for Local Government and Water Ann Leahy said the taskforce was well placed to begin its work.

“We promised Queenslanders a fresh start and we continue to deliver just that,” she said.

“Andrew Chesterman has hit the ground running as our taskforce lead, bringing with him over 30 years of professional and public administration experience – including Director-General and CEO roles in both state and local government.

“Working in partnership with the sector to understand where red tape can be reduced is crucial to supporting councils to efficiently and effectively deliver infrastructure and services for their communities.”

Mr Chesterman said he was eager to begin engaging with local governments and stakeholders across the state.

“Coming from a background in local government, I’m all too aware of the burden overregulation can place on the sector,” he said.

“Local councils are the experts on their communities, and I look forward to working with them as well as others within the sector to understand how regulation can better serve their needs.”

Local Government Association of Queensland chief executive officer Alison Smith welcomed the announcement.

“Queensland councils are acutely aware of the impact on local communities of overly complex, duplicated and otherwise unnecessary regulation,” she said.

“Queensland councils have put forward resolution after resolution seeking regulatory changes that would help councils run more efficiently.

“We are looking forward to the review achieving cuts to red tape as well as empowering local councils to provide solutions that best serve their communities.”

Queensland is home to around 120 species of snakes, many of which possess venom, and some of which are very dangerous to humans and pets if bitten. The most dangerous snakes include brown snakes, taipans, red-bellied black snakes, death adders, and tiger snakes.

Toxicologist Dr Emma Maguire emphasised that avoiding snake bites is key to remaining safe.

“If you’re in an area where snakes might be found, it’s important not to surprise them – make some noise, and watch where you step or put your hands. Be sure to wear protective clothing such as boots and jeans,” she said.

“Don’t approach a snake. Leave it alone and call a professional snake catcher. Snakes will feel threatened if you try and move

them and may bite.”

Dr Maguire warned that some of the most dangerous snake bites could cause very little pain at the bite site, in particular, this was seen with brown snake bites. She said this could make it easy for people to underestimate the seriousness of the injury.

“Even if the bite doesn’t hurt, it’s crucial to seek immediate help, as snake venom can have lifethreatening effects,” Dr Maguire said.

“If you’re bitten by a snake, stay calm – and call an ambulance immediately.

“If a limb has been bitten, apply a firm bandage over the entire limb, and immobilise it. Avoid moving around or running as this will increase venom spread – just sit somewhere safe and wait for help to arrive.

“Do not try to catch the snake or

bring it to the emergency department. We can still treat you effectively without definitively identifying the exact snake species.

“We will recommend antivenom treatment based on the geographical location where the bite occurred, and the clinical features of envenomation.

“Antivenom works to stop the progression of the venom – so the earlier we give it to the patient the better. It works best when given within six hours of the snakebite but is still beneficial and given later in some situations.

“If you are seriously envenomed, you may be in hospital for several days and occasionally even longer, particularly if you need treatment for complications like muscle breakdown, nerve weakness, or kidney damage.”

IS HEARD! MAKE SURE YOUR

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:

ENTERTAINMENT

A feast for all the senses

ready for some

in Innisfail next month when the 22nd Feast of the Senses returns.

The four-day event kicks off on Thursday 27 March with some fun and fruity trivia at the Innisfail RSL Club with the Gone Troppo Trivia Night, followed by the Northern and Southern food trails during the day on Friday and Saturday, and delicious tropical food events at the RSL and Brothers Leagues Club Bistro in the evenings.

Tickets for the food trails are now on sale and places are filling fast, with a notable increase in out-of-town, southern and international visitors.

and entertainment all day, along with a huge variety of market stalls, food vans and taste sensations.

Patrons are advised not to miss the Cassowary Coast Rare Fruits Association amazing display and free fruit tastings in their marquee on the river, with the fruit auction later in the day.

Families with children can enjoy the free and ticketed activities in the Feast of Fun Kid Zone all day while adults can linger at the cooking stage for recipe ideas, demonstrations and free tastings in Canecutter Court.

“Our food trails are eagerly awaited every year,” volunteer festival manager and president Rosi Jensen said.

“We have some terrific venues to visit on both food trails.

“It’s a great day out and a unique experience of the tropics for locals and visitors alike.”

The Innisfail riverfront and Canecutter Court will come alive on Sunday 30 March with music

Sunday’s River Feast, from 9am to 3pm, is a great day out for the family and people of all ages. The Feast of the Senses is Queensland’s premier fruit festival and it’s right on our doorstep. Check the Feast of the Senses website and Facebook page for all details and tickets and register to go on the email list to get festival news direct to your inbox. Those who want to host a stall can book to be part of this great event at www.feastofthesenses.com.au

The Feast of the Senses offers patrons a world of tropical fruit and fun.

Celebrating of driving the Tablelands forward 40 Years

IN ATHERTON, the name John Cole is synonymous with trust, community, and commitment. For nearly four decades, John has led one of the most recognised businesses in the region, serving the people of the Atherton Tablelands and Cassowary Coast for 40 and 27 years, respectively. Under his leadership, the business has grown from just six employees to a thriving enterprise with over 100 local staff across three locations: the allnew Kennedy Highway premises, JCT Innisfail, and the Cole Motor Group’s All-Wheel Drive Centre (CMG AWDC) in Atherton.

Local business owner John Cole reflected, “When I started this journey nearly 40 years ago, I never imagined how much we would grow—not just in size, but in the relationships we’ve built with our community.”

Since his appointment as Dealer Principal in December 1984, John has worked tirelessly to foster the growth and success of the business. Under his leadership, the region has benefitted from high-quality and reliable mobility solutions through the trusted Toyota brand. In recent years, John has expanded the dealership’s offerings, introducing four additional automotive

brands, along with mowers and small engines, to better serve the community’s diverse needs.

“Our priority has always been to provide the best service and solutions for our community—whether through Toyota or the additional brands we’ve introduced. It’s about meeting the ever-changing needs of the people we serve,” he said.

Now, after decades of dedicated service and countless awards, John is stepping into a more relaxed role. While he will remain involved in the business, leadership now transitions to his eldest son, Adam Cole, who has been with the company since 1997.

Having gained experience across various departments—including Parts, Sales, and Finance—Adam has spent the last 15 years as General Manager.

With hands-on expertise and a deep passion for the family business, he is honoured to step into the role of Dealer Principal, continuing the legacy his father built.

“It’s an honour to follow in my dad’s footsteps and take on this responsibility. I’m excited to continue building on the foundation he has laid and to keep driving our vision forward,” said Adam Cole, newly appointed Dealer Principal.

The family’s involvement doesn’t end with Adam. Trevor Cole, who has played a significant role in the company’s expansion under Cole Motor Group (CMG), now leads the recently acquired Atherton Nissan and Atherton Subaru at the CMG All-Wheel Drive Centre. Additionally, John’s daughter, Toni Rawson (Cole), steps into the General Manager role after eight years leading the group’s Marketing and Customer Experience division. Together, alongside a team of long-serving senior employees, they represent the future of the John Cole legacy—continuing the values of hard work, community, and service that have defined the company for so many years.

“Having grown up in this business, I’ve always admired the strong connection we have with our customers and community. I’m proud to be part of the next generation leading this team,” Adam said.

Though John may take a back seat in day-to-day operations, the Cole family’s dedication remains unwavering. With Adam, Trevor, and Toni at the helm, the company is poised for continued growth and service to Atherton, Innisfail, and the surrounding regions. As John focuses on the aspects of the business he enjoys most, the Cole legacy will carry on for generations to come. John shared, “While I may not be as

involved in daily operations, I’ll always be here to support Adam, Trevor, Toni, and our team. I look forward to watching them take the business to new heights.”

2025 marks an incredible milestone – John Cole Toyota is celebrating 40 years of service in the Atherton Tablelands region. This momentous occasion is not just a celebration of the company’s achievements but a testament to the long-standing relationship between the business and the local community. The Cole family is excited to continue building upon this legacy as they look forward to many more years of service, growth, and community support.

John Cole (left) and Adam Cole in front of the all new Toyota Tundra.

Growing with the Tablelands:

Commitment to community and expansion

FOR John, this business has always been about more than selling cars—it’s about serving the people of the Tablelands and Cassowary Coast with reliable mobility solutions and creating quality employment opportunities for locals.

“Every day I thank my lucky stars that I’m a Toyota dealer and can provide quality vehicles and employment opportunities to our community,” John said. When asked why, he attributes it to the brand’s commitment to QDR—Quality, Durability, and Reliability. “Toyota’s dedication to these values is why it’s the number one automotive brand in the country,” he added.

Thanks to this commitment, the company has been able to make significant strides, including opening a purposebuilt facility on Kennedy

Highway. Designed with both staff and customers in mind, the dealership offers a modern showroom, advanced vehicle configurators, and familyfriendly amenities such as a Kids Zone and café-style lounges.

For service customers, undercover drive-through bays ensure comfort and convenience, rain or shine, while a cuttingedge 17-bay workshop fosters professional excellence for technicians.

“Providing the best facilities isn’t just about business,” John Cole explains. “It’s about creating opportunities for local talent, encouraging young people to pursue careers here, and ensuring our customers receive trusted service.”

True to JCT’s commitment to the community, over 20 local contractors were engaged in the

facility’s construction, ensuring the investment remained within the region, and continues to engage locals to support the business.

“Our journey has always

been about the community,”

John adds. “We’ve grown because of the trust and loyalty of our customers. It’s only fitting that we give back by supporting local talent and businesses.”

Celebrating the faces

OVER the past 40 years, John Cole Toyota (JCT) has seen many people join its ranks, but what sets the dealership apart is the incredible number of long-term team members who continue to make JCT a special place for staff and customers alike. These familiar faces embody the loyalty, expertise, and dedication that define the dealership’s legacy.

John Cole’s brothers, Ian and Nat, played pivotal roles in the dealership’s early days, and John’s wife Elane’s sister and brother-inlaw, Neville and Clare McBain, also contributed their expertise.

Among the standout long-term employees is John Shoesmith, who has dedicated 38 years to JCT, working in various roles from the service department to his current position in pre-delivery.

Brendan Mommsen, a cornerstone of the parts department, celebrates 28 years of service, while Liam O’Shea’s journey from an apprentice technician in 2007 to

a seasoned expert highlights JCT’s investment in its team.

In 2024, Office Manager Karen Mitchell and Sales Manager Alex Garth both marked 10 years with JCT. Meanwhile, in Innisfail, Service Manager Daniel celebrated 20 years in 2023, with Mike Hill reaching his milestone in 2024. Michael Hooker and Peter Wise have also contributed a combined 10 years of service.

The dedication of these longterm team members reflects the dealership’s commitment to fostering a supportive and rewarding workplace. Their hard work and passion have helped build a culture of trust and excellence that benefits both colleagues and customers.

As John Cole Toyota celebrates 40 years of mobility, it is these faces, stories, and milestones that highlight the true spirit of the dealership. We celebrate the people—new and old—who have shaped and continue to shape JCT into what it is today.

(top left:) Image of the original site in 1987, (top right:) New build on toga road 1990, and (above:) the all new site on Kennedy Highway 2025.

The stuff that legends are made of:

A new chapter in the legendary – LandCruiser 70 Series

For over 70 years, the Toyota LandCruiser has been the backbone of the Australian Outback. Farmers, miners, emergency services, and adventurers alike have relied on its unmatched – Quality, Durability, and Reliability.

From the Snowy Mountains Hydro Electric Scheme in 1949 to the dust-laden cattle stations of today, the LandCruiser name has been synonymous with toughness. Now, with the 2024 refresh, Toyota has done something many thought was sacrilegious – the introduction of a four-cylinder engine. But is it

really a compromise? Or is it the evolution of a true legend?

A Tough Truck, No Matter the Engine! At first glance, the idea of a four-cylinder LandCruiser may raise eyebrows. After all, for years, the 4.5-litre turbo-diesel V8 has been the heart and soul of the 70 Series. Its raw power and effortless torque delivery have earned it a loyal following. However, Toyota’s decision to bring in a 2.8-litre turbo-diesel four-cylinder – the same engine found in the unbreakable HiLux – is not without merit. It offers 150kW of power, just shy of the V8’s 151kW, and an even stronger

500Nm of torque compared to the V8’s 430Nm.

Perhaps the biggest gamechanger is the six-speed automatic transmission, a first for the 70 Series. While the V8 remains paired with its old-school fivespeed manual, the four-cylinder makes driving the LandCruiser easier and more accessible. For those who need a workhorse but don’t want to battle a heavy clutch all day, this new version makes driving a breeze.

But does It Hold Up OffRoad? You might ask, One thing’s for sure – Toyota didn’t just plonk the 2.8-litre HiLux

engine into the LandCruiser and call it a day. It underwent seven years of rigorous testing in the toughest conditions Australia has to offer. The result? A powertrain tailored for the LandCruiser’s legendary capability.

The four-cylinder benefits from a raft of unique upgrades, including a larger radiator fan for cooling, a modified oil system, and a balance shaft to handle vibrations. Crucially, it doesn’t lose out on off-road prowess. With part-time 4WD, low-range gearing, front coil and rear leafspring suspension, and locking differentials on GXL models, it remains just as unstoppable as its V8 counterpart. In some ways, it’s even better – hill descent control, paired with the automatic transmission, makes crawling down steep, rocky declines easier than ever.

More Than Just a Workhorse, despite its utilitarian roots, the LandCruiser 70 Series has received some much-needed modern touches. The refreshed 2024 model sports a retroinspired design with subtle nods to its heritage. Inside, there’s a new 6.7-inch infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a reversing camera* (model specific), and additional safety features like autonomous emergency braking.

The V8 vs. The Four-Cylinder – Which One Is Right for You?

While the V8 retains its iconic status, the four-cylinder makes a compelling case. It’s more affordable, easier to drive, and offers a higher payload capacity thanks to its lighter weight. While the fuel savings are marginal, the increased accessibility of an automatic transmission broadens its appeal to a whole new segment of buyers, including fleets and business operators.

Ultimately, choosing between the V8 and the fourcylinder will come down to preference. If you crave the raw, old-school charm of a manual V8, then you’ll likely remain loyal to the tried-andtrue formula. But if you want something that maintains the LandCruiser’s legendary capability while making life a little easier behind the wheel,

the four-cylinder is a worthy contender.

Our Verdict:

The Toyota LandCruiser 70 Series has always been the toughest truck on the market, and that hasn’t changed. Whether you opt for the V8 or the new four-cylinder, you’re getting a machine built to withstand the harshest environments Australia can throw at it.

The 70 Series is still the stuff that legends are made of – and now, more people than ever can be part of the legacy. Ready to experience it for yourself? Visit John Cole Toyota in Atherton or Innisfail to test drive the new LandCruiser 70 Series today. Our sales team is here to help you find the perfect model to take on your next adventure.

ON LANDthe

Bursary to honour AgTech trailblazer

A TRAILBLAZER in agricultural innovation has been honoured by the State Government announcing a bursary in her name.

The bursary recognises the lasting contributions of the late Liz Alexander to agricultural innovation in Queensland and beyond.

Ms Alexander was instrumental in driving the growth of the state’s AgTech ecosystem, playing a pivotal role in initiatives such as the AgFrontier program and i4Connect, and serving on multiple boards including Cotton Australia, Plant Health Australia, and QRIDA.

Minister for Primary Industries Tony Perrett said the bursary would be awarded to an outstanding leader in Queensland’s AgTech ecosystem, covering the cost of attending a future evokeAG forum.

“Liz Alexander was a true pioneer and a passionate advocate for Queensland’s AgTech sector,” he said.

“Liz championed not only technology and innovation, but also the people behind them — the start-up founders, investors, and enablers working to supercharge the productivity and sustainability of our primary industries.

“This bursary is about recognising those who continue to lead in that space and drive meaningful change in Queensland’s primary industries.

“I look forward to seeing the next generation of AgTech leaders emerge and continue the work that Liz so passionately championed.”

Liz was from Emerald in Central Queensland. Her husband, Doug Sands, works for the Department of Primary Industries as a Research Agronomist and they have two children – Fletcher, 17 and Brodie, 15.

Liz passed away in July 2024 from complications related to her cancer treatment. She was 51.

Fund to tackle bee destroyer

A NEW fund being established by the State Government will be charged with developing creative solutions to strengthen Queensland’s defences against the destructive pest, varroa mite (Varroa destructor) and support beekeepers.

The $500,000 Community Bee Innovation Fund (CBIF) will provide grants of between $5,000 to $50,000 over the next three years to unearth and support innovative projects to prepare and protect Queensland’s beekeeping and pollinationreliant industries.

First detected in New South Wales in June 2022, varroa mites are tiny parasites that kill beehives and are the biggest pest to honeybees worldwide.

Varroa mites are not found in Queensland but have recently been detected in the NSW border town of Boggabilla.

The grants will fully fund projects that either deliver innovative varroa mite education and training or develop innovative varroa mite management tools.

Innovations can involve creating entirely new solutions or applying existing tools in novel ways to combat the threat of varroa mite.

Beekeeping clubs and groups, universities, local governments, industry bodies and agricultural businesses are encouraged to apply.

Beekeepers contribute an estimated $75 million annually in honey production and a staggering $2.4 billion in pollination

value to Queensland’s economy.

The Crisafulli Government is also delivering 100 new biosecurity officers over the next four years to beef up biosecurity for primary industries.

Minister for Primary Industries

Tony Perrett said strong and responsive biosecurity was critical to the ongoing success of Queensland’s agricultural industries.

“This project empowers beekeepers, researchers and industry groups to

develop creative solutions that strengthen our defences against varroa mite,” he said.

“It’s one of the many projects Queensland is working on to protect the sustainability of our beekeeping and pollination industries, which are crucial to our food security and economy.”

Round 1 of the grant program has opened, with applications closing on 24 March.

The Varroa Mite is the biggest threat to honey bees worldwide.

Turning science to finance

AUSTRALIAN farmers can now tackle emissions from the ground up, with a free guide available to develop and implement sustainable practices on farms.

The Towards Net Zero Agriculture Pathfinder, a joint initiative by the Clean Energy Finance Corporation (CEFC) and CSIRO, is a practical guide to help farmers reduce greenhouse gas emissions while maintaining productivity and competitiveness.

Farmers, managers, and advisers can use the tool to explore and adopt sustainable practices suited to their business mix and farm management goals.

“Pathfinder exemplifies the power of science and finance working hand-inhand to help Australian farmers address climate challenges,” CEFC Head of Natural Capital Heechung Sung said.

“It empowers farmers with the tools and knowledge to make informed decisions tailored to their operations, whether optimising fertiliser use or adopting methanereducing pasture species.

farmers to act - both on farms and in markets.

“We must create pathways to help farmers deliver their low-emissions commodities into sustainability-focused supply chains. This needs to be a team game.

“By integrating environmental sustainability with financial viability, this collaboration helps to create a pathway for a prosperous, net zero agriculture sector.”

Pathfinder also equips farmers with the knowledge to establish an emissions baseline, a key step in sustainability reporting.

“Producers who can demonstrate their emissions reductions will have greater access to premium markets and competitive financing,” Ms Sung said.

“As global supply chains demand higher transparency, these baselines will maintain market access and secure new opportunities.”

Grants to restore land

NEARLY $2.2 million has become available through the State and Federal Governments to restore areas devastated by ex-Tropical Cyclone Jasper in Far North Queensland and the severe storms that hit South-East Queensland in late 2023 and early 2024.

This package will help the community restore the environment, clean up debris and become more resilient to future natural disasters.

It includes $1.5 million for the 2023-24 Environmental Recovery Package: Local Conservation and Clean-up program for areas impacted by ex-Tropical Cyclone Jasper.

Eligible applicants can seek grants of up to $100,000 for projects that remove and dispose of cyclone debris and undertake environmental conservation activities to rehabilitate cyclone-affected landscapes.

Cyclone Jasper and $400,000 available for areas affected by storms in the south-east of the State.

Minister for the Environment and Tourism, Minister for Science and Innovation Andrew Powell said the additional $2.19 million was a welcome boost to the ongoing efforts to restore areas devastated by recent natural disasters.

“Queensland has the largest private protected area network in Australia of 4.9 million hectares, with plans to expand. These areas are home to our threatened species and are vital for our diverse ecosystems,” he said.

“The devastation caused by these severe weather events was widespread, and picking up the pieces takes time.

CSIRO Towards Net Zero

“It includes CEFCbacked discounted financeeligible activities, such as feed supplements, fertiliser optimisation, and carbonsequestering plantings, also aims to bridge a critical gap for farmers keen to invest in sustainable practices.”

lead Dr Michael Battaglia said: “Agriculture contributes billions to Australia’s GDP, but to stay competitive and meet climate targets, we need new ways to enable our

Potential borrowers are encouraged to use Pathfinder for information on investments that might be eligible for CEFC-backed discounted finance.

For more information or to try out the Pathfinder tool, go to www.cefc.com.au/ pathfinder

Disaster relief for cane growers

CANEGROWERS has welcomed an announcement by the State and Federal Governments of a joint disaster relief package for primary producers devastated by recent flooding across north Queensland.

Canegrowers chief executive officer Dan Galligan called the $25,000 disaster assistance grants “a good start”, saying they would provide critical support to growers as they begin to assess the costs of cleaning up and repairing their properties. But as farming communities

move forward with recovery efforts, the State Government must also look at ways to assist primary producers who have lost their crops, Mr Galligan said.

“Sugarcane is tough, but it’s not indestructible. If young plants spend too long underwater, they simply won’t survive,” he said.

“Other states recognise that getting crops back in the ground is just as important as repairing infrastructure. Queensland needs to follow their lead.”

Later in the week, the State and Federal Governments

announced that disaster recovery grants could also be used to cover replanting costs.

Mr Galligan called the decision “a critical step forward for growers”.

“Early estimates are putting crop losses in the worst-affected areas at anywhere up to one million tonnes. Recovery isn’t just about cleaning up – it’s about getting those crops back in the ground so farmers can rebuild,” he said.

Crop losses don’t just affect this season, they impact future harvests, farm viability,

The funding also includes $690,000 for the Environmental Recovery Package: Private Protected Area Landholder Support program. This includes $290,000 available for areas affected by ex-Tropical

the wider sugar industry, and regional communities, he added.

“Canegrowers has been pushing for this change, and we’re grateful the State and Federal Governments have come out strong in support of growers. We now urge them to roll this out quickly, with minimal red tape,” Mr Galligan said.

He said Canegrowers was also engaged in proactive discussions around updating the definition of a primary producer and identifying further on-ground assistance needed to support recovery efforts.

“This funding will significantly help landowners to improve ecosystem health, enhance natural and cultural assets and increase the resilience of their properties against future weather events.” Grants rounds open on 13 February 2025 and close on 13 March for assessment.

Adopting methane-reducing pasture species is just one of the practices farmers can explore through the new Pathfinder tool.

LETTERS to the editor

Transparency a must

HEARD the one about the dad who asked his son what he wanted for Christmas?

The kid said “a cowboy outfit”, so the dad bought him the TRC.

This may be funny in a Monty Pythonesque way, tarring TRC with such an epithet but recent letters to the editor, together with social media, paint a picture of our council in a state of “funny ha-ha serious” set of affairs.

There have been worrying indictments with evidence of aspects of its performance and transparency along with innuendo regarding fiscal responsibility.

There will always be criticism from some when there are perceptions that others are receiving preferential treatment e.g., infrastructure upgrades, or that funds are being misspent, particularly if it is not in an individual’s interests.

Often these are unfounded but thrown mud does unfortunately tend to stick.

The more important issue at stake here is that of perceived lack of transparency. To avoid being accused of being evasive and of relying on bureaucratic provisions to prevent open disclosure of issues of matters that are of concern to ratepayers, our mayor needs to be more openly responsive to community concern.

Councillor Cardew’s recent revelations seem to demonstrate that there is some need for improved performance, transparency and accountability on the part of council.

When performance and accountability are questionable, the issue needs to be addressed and the outcomes reported to the community. Ratepayers need to be confident that their representatives are making sure that their dollars are being used efficiently and effectively.

After all, prior to the last election we heard from the candidates, all their promises of governing in an open, representative way.

Playing “secret squirrel” is no way to achieve integrity in governance. Is it any wonder that questions are being asked about the revolving door comings and goings of CEOs over recent years? The ugly spectre of redundancy payments raises it head as yet another thing to gossip about.

The whole of the council and its employees must not be tarred with the same brush as the few who are claimed to be either underperforming, inefficient, unaccountable or failing in their duty to disclose negative aspects of management or operations.

That would be unfair to the majority who do their job well. But is it unfair for ratepayers to expect attention to and transparency in matters of concern when they are raised by ratepayers?

Open and honest public relevation would avoid the destructive and erosive impacts of rumour and erroneous perceptions.

Kerry Linwood ATHERTON

We must speak up

PETA Weaver (Letters 12/02/25) asks us to trust the science based on her leaned experience from a 1989 Science Review modelling the impact of climate change and her intuitive understanding of the subject.

She also considers Peter Campion and his Ilk (such as me?) irresponsible for debunking extensive evidence of climate change.

Peta needs to understand that climate models are developed by making assumptions, true or false, to predict the future, they are not a proof of anything.

Also, Peta, intuition is not a scientific tool, for example before Galileo and the telescope our intuition told us the universe was geocentric because everything in the skies rotated around the earth.

Anybody proposing otherwise in our Christian society 600 years ago risked being burnt at the stake! We have since learnt differently!

For the record, I have never argued that climate change does not happen, in fact there is ample evidence that climate change is absolutely normal and has been ongoing since the earth was formed.

The critical question is whether mankind has influenced the change recently, and the even more critical question is, can building the solar and wind energy to reduce CO2 emissions influence that change.

Having read and reread relevant sections of the IPCC reports, the only argument I can find to indicate that CO2 causes climate change is that they have a sympathetic trend.

This is not proof and, in fact, statistical analysis of temperature/CO2 ratios from ice core data actually indicates that temperature change precedes CO2 change. That is, temperature drives CO2 levels, not the reverse.

This is thought to be because warmer oceans (the largest sink for CO2) cannot dissolve as much CO2 as cooler ones, hence more remains in the atmosphere.

I consider that in the absence of any evidence that increasing the CO2 content of the atmosphere causes climate change, the irresponsible act would be to stay quiet while we spend trillions of dollars on a useless disruption to our economy and our living standards.

Bruce Jones MAREEBA

Gardeners lose out

THE executive of the Mareeba Rodeo has advised gardeners that the annual garden competition will no longer be included as part of the community rodeo festival each year even though there is still strong support from gardeners, sponsors and judges.

Gardeners in the shire are bitterly disappointed with this decision. So many locals have contributed to the 56 -year history of this event and shared their knowledge, enthusiasm and economic support to businesses within the community.

Gardeners want to make it known to the public that this final decision to permanently cancel is not because of a lack of enthusiasm, sponsors, judges or entries (which were all in place and welladvertised for many weeks prior to the 2024 cancellation).

In fact, the rodeo executive has not provided any plausible reasons for this decision, nor have they sought assistance or ideas from gardeners or the wider

community.

No response was received to emails, phone calls and personal visits prior to making this decision. This decision seems an autocratic one made without consultation with those affected or those that may be able to help.

The Mareeba Rodeo is our shire’s largest annual festival event. It brings visitors, tourists, grey nomads to town and adds substantially to the economic wellbeing of Mareeba and surrounding areas.

Atherton and other surrounding shires and councils have an annual agricultural show which brings together a variety of community/social/sporting events.

It is hoped that the rodeo committee is not planning to reduce the annual rodeo festival to a single interest rodeo event only.

A group of gardeners MAREEBA

No need to be scared

THANKS, Peta Weaver, (Letters 12/02/25) for your excellent self-portrait of a brainwashed mind. The effect of the endless, baseless arm-waving assertions, amplified by the media and the political establishment, have left you terrified for your future and the planet’s – despite the complete lack of evidence of it happening.

This is particularly remarkable because your fears are now 36 years old. You’ve seen none of the predictions of the grantdependent arm-wavers eventuate. Not one. Net zero.

Cyclones didn’t become more frequent and more intense, the seas didn’t rise two metres by the year 2000, the rain didn’t stop falling and filling our dams, and Australia’s hottest decades are still the 1890s and 1900s.

BoM’s activists have time-travelled into the past to correct the mistakes of the weathermen who lived back then: they call that “homogenisation” because if they called it by its correct name, “falsifying historical records”, their fraud will be too obvious.

Peta you’ve fallen for the “appeal to authority” logical fallacy. You feel compelled to believe people who’re clearly wrong because they did a course and got jobs spreading alarmism. Their incomes and careers depend on remaining loyal to the narrative.

My own background is irrelevant because I’ve explained the gas laws that prove that CO2 cannot trap heat. Peta, you could learn them, plug in the relevant values, and do the maths yourself but that’d involve thinking really hard and it’s easier to just watch the ABC.

Untold billions of dollars, most of them taken from taxpayers under false pretences, have been diverted from genuine environmental and humanitarian issues to spread climate alarmism, to infect the minds of the gullible and those who failed high school physics.

Why? Ultimately, it’s about power. Political power. Those driving it want a world government, so they’re trying to build up enough fear that we demand a world government to battle global warming. Very conveniently, they’ll be in charge of it.

(Their back-up plan is based on disease pandemics.)

The problem they’re having is that their best guesses at what the temperature trend would do, driven as it is by solar cycles, were wrong. The solar warming they expected to happen, that they hoped to blame on “carbon”, didn’t happen. Oops.

So now they’re relying on frightening you – and you’re still falling for it, seemingly unaware that they’re attacking your electricity, fuel, food, and consumer goods supplies, your health (particularly your mental health), and your freedom to travel.

I’m not doing that – I’m simply trying to help you wake up to the stone cold truth that you’ve been deliberately deceived by authorities you should have been able to trust.

I’d rather discuss the gas physics and the solar and galactic influences that actually control climate and weather, but it’s also important to point out the flaws in other’s thinking so readers can decide who has the facts and evidence.

I sincerely hope for the best for you, Peta: I hope you shake off you’re programming after 36 years of historically mild weather and free yourself of the fake fears imposed on you by globalists who are harming you.

Enjoy the rest of your life in the absolute certainty that carbon dioxide, the rare trace gas that feeds plants, the miracle molecule on which all life depends, will definitely not destroy the world.

As to the globalists, the Klaus Schwabs, the Antonio Guterreses, the Larry Finks of the world, you need to watch out for them.

Peter Campion TOLGA

Cr outburst not needed

RE: “Cardew vows to expose council failings” (The Express 12/2/25) Cr Cardew’s grandstanding and attempt at obtaining the moral high ground while criticising his TRC councillor colleagues and staff is unproductive.

This is simply Cr Cardew trying to self-promote himself at the expense of his colleagues.

Cr Cardew insinuates that he is superior in wisdom and integrity to his colleagues with his knowledge of how the management of TRC should be undertaken. This is simply delusional and he does not see the big picture and vision that some of his more aspirational colleagues have.

As Cr Cardew says, he has been paid from the public purse for 45 years. He is not an entrepreneur or private sector leader with a history of strong financial management that is superior to his colleagues.

He ain’t Trump or Musk. If Cr Cardew really wants to save the council money, then he should start making sensible and ethical decisions that don’t cost the council and ratepayers money.

For example: he tried to block the Old Mates Farm stay (expansion), when most of the community wanted this. And then he was happy to see hundreds of thousands of TRC ratepayers’ dollars wasted on legal action against Old Mates Farm that had no chance of succeeding.

The list of his poor decision-making whilst he has been in council is long. One wonders what poor decisions he made as

a previous TRC employee and what they cost the ratepayer?

We’ve all worked with people (or had them working for us) that simply aren’t team players. They know better than everyone else and things must be done their way. Generally, most organisations are happy when they move on.

Cr Cardew’s outburst is deliberately political in its timing just before the arrival of the new CEO. Cr Cardew needs to keep in mind that he only just won his division at the March election and it was a close near ~50/50 split against another very good candidate.

Cr Cardew needs to look at himself and attempt to work with the newly formed council and the incoming CEO for the benefit of the community. Or, I’m sure many people would be happy to see his resignation sitting on the table at the next council meeting.

Yes, the council can do better and we all need to work together to achieve this. Previous poor administration is a legacy that the current council must contend with, including the dysfunction of the immediate previous council.

The natural disasters and unrelenting weather of the last few years have made maintenance, upgrades, improvements, and progress more difficult for all organisations and businesses than they should have been.

Contractors / tradespeople are difficult to get in the current environment and, unfortunately, they are expensive, particularly when there are cost blowouts.

The Atherton Tablelands has some exciting public and private projects underway that will benefit all of us and our future generations. I have met Mayor Marti and other Councillors only in a transparent business capacity.

Tony Freeman UPPER BARRON I want my say, again I HAVE in mind the comment Thomas Jefferson once made: “The Government you elect is the government you deserve.”

In my view, in recent times when electing governments, we’ve made some decisions we rather regret.

Also, it’s common knowledge that there are some local authorities in this nation that are completely woke and off the rails, making decisions any reasonably sensible person cannot fathom, and delving in matters completely outside the bounds and purview of the function of a council representing ratepayers.

I’m not saying that’s the case with the Mareeba Council at all and I don’t doubt for a moment that Mladen Bosnic is a good bloke, and would be a valuable addition to the council, but I didn’t vote for him at the last election and I’m not Robinson Crusoe in that regard. He didn’t make the cut.

If per chance there are others out there interested in contesting the position, well, I want to hear from them, I want to assess the situation, have my say again on who should fill the vacancy. If it’s Mladen, well and good.

Barry Braes MAREEBA

Rural lifestyle living at its best

the rural lifestyle, in one of the most desirable regions on the Atherton Tablelands.

Situated just 4.3 km from the charming little township of Atherton and only1.6 km from the Tolga state primary school, this property offers additional opportunities for a buyer with a vision.

Set on 21.67 ha and featuring some of North Queensland’s most fertile volcanic soils

The property has many potential uses from having a stable for your family horses to starting your own farming ventures!

Indulge in comfort with this modernized four

bedroom, one bathroom home. The house has beautiful finishes as well as large windows in every room to let natural light glimmer throughout the house.

The kitchen includes a large amount of bench and cupboard space for you to cook with the whole family, as well as ample dining

space and two roomy living areas.

The outside of the property features a large patio for entertaining as well as two lockable garages and two open carports.

The property also includes a 22 x 20 m machinery shed for all of your farming equipment

along with a 3.6 x 12 m workshop for your maintenance needs.

Price: Agent:

Contact agent

Sims Road, TOLGA $2,450,000 Morgan Brennan Ray White Atherton 0407 730 450 or 4091 7111

Morgan Brennan at Ray White Atherton on 0407 730 450.

Offering style, space in premium location

SET in a quiet, established area of Amaroo Park Estate and surrounded by other quality homes – this 4 bedroom residence encompasses crisp, neutral colour schemes, quality fixtures and fittings, as well as a practical, stylish floor plan incorporating all the extras. Property features:

• Freshly painted internally and externally

• Stunning gloss tiles in the living areas and carpeted bedrooms for warmth

• Fully split-system airconditioned

• Stylish neutral colour scheme and quality fixtures and fittings throughout

• Generous open plan living area with tv niche and a side office nook/kids play area

• Separate closable media room/4th bedroom with sliding door access to the wrap around patio

• Bedrooms with mirrored built-in robes – Master with ensuite incorporating a his and hers shower, wall hung vanity with stone top and walk-in robe as well as sliding door access to the patio

• Stunning central kitchen with a recessed ceiling feature, gloss cabinetry, stone bench tops, generous cupboard and bench space, servery window to the patio with retractable screen and stainless steel appliances, including a 900mm freestanding electric oven with gas cooktop and

• Main bathroom with separate plunge bath, builtin storage cupboard and wall hung vanity with stone top

• Laundry with built-in cabinetry

• Tinted windows and security screens throughout

• Multiple power points and tv points throughout

• 2 sizeable built-in storage cupboards in the hallway

• Substantial tiled wrap

OPEN HOME

Saturday 1 March 10am to 11am

around patio off the living area

• Exposed aggregate driveway and pathways

• Double garage with painted floor

• 888m2 fully fenced and landscaped corner allotment with privacy trees, automatic pop-up irrigation and double gated access to the rear yard

The home presents beautifully with a versatile

and

Spacious 4 bedroom home in a new estate

THIS near-new, 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom home is ideally situated just a short drive from Mareeba’s CBD in the sought-after The Edge estate—one of the area’s most rapidly developing communities. Offering a perfect blend of modern comfort and country-style tranquillity, this home is designed for relaxed family living.

Property features:

• Generous 903m² block

• 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms

• Master suite with walk-in robe and ensuite

• Open plan living and dining with seamless flow to an outdoor patio

• Airconditioning throughout (all bedrooms + main living area)

• Ceiling fans in every room

• Modern kitchen featuring stone bench tops, ample

storage, pantry and dishwasher

• Tiled throughout with a spacious back patio

• Double lock-up garage with wide roller door that opens to create a large indoor/outdoor entertainment space

• Side access to the backyard, ideal for vehicle access or shed

• Fully fenced for privacy and security

• Internal laundry

• Security screens on all windows and doors

• Turfed with fixed irrigation with bush outlook to the rear

Address: Price: Agent:

Contact:

• Cement driveway for easy access

Perfectly positioned to enjoy both privacy and convenience, this property offers the ideal setting for modern living with a country feel. The spacious backyard and outdoor areas are perfect for entertaining or relaxing in the fresh air.

For more information or to arrange a private inspection, please contact exclusive marketing agent Rino Gava on 0427 779 086 or email: rino@ girgentigroup.com

23 Antonio Drive, MAREEBA

$595,000

EXCLUSIVE to Rino Gava Sibi Girgenti Real Estate 0427 779 086

Cheap as chips

LOCATED only a hop, skip and a jump to Mareeba CBD, this starter property could be your next investment opportunity. Located at number 7 Iluka Street, Mareeba and nestled at the back of an 885m2 allotment this cosy property has privacy in mind in a convenient location.

The homes kitchen is a good size with plenty of room for a small breakfast table, with your main dining space off to the side, and living room down a few steps.

Easily accessed from the kitchen are the two bedrooms, both of which feature air conditioning and built in cupboards.

The bathroom has a shower and separate

toilet for convenience, and is accessed off the internal laundry.

Out the back is the large undercover outdoor entertainment area, perfect for a BBQ with friends and family.

Only a few steps away is the 2 bay Colorbond shed with power and a mezzanine floor.

With the property positioned to the rear of the block and gardens in front, there is plenty of privacy from the road. Property features:

• 2 bedrooms, built-ins and

air-conditioned

• 1 bathroom, separate toilet

• Spacious kitchen

• Dining room, lounge room

• Polished timber floorboards

• Internal laundry

• Large undercover outdoor entertainment area

• 2 Bay Colorbond shed with power and mezzanine floor

• 885m2 fully fenced allotment

To arrange a private inspection call exclusive marketing agent Vince Costas on 0419 926 691.

Address: Price: Agent: Contact: 7 Iluka Street, MAREEBA Offers in the $300,000’s EXCLUSIVE to Vince Costas Central Realty 0419 926 691 or 4092 2232

ARE you looking for a strategically located investment opportunity? Look no further, here it is.

Astute investors check out this excellent opportunity to purchase this property with three separate income streams in a prime location.

enjoy an immediate cash flow with the potential to increase.

This property offers the convenience of a prized ‘get to everywhere location’, where you can stroll to Woolies, or Atherton’s Main Street, for all your shopping needs.

For more information, call Trisha Jackson at Professionals Atherton on 4091 3955 or 0419 1833 145 anytime. To view more photos, visit athertonrealestate.com.au Put your money to work and your mind to rest

Here you will discover a low set Queenslander at the front of the property and located at the rear of the property, two residential units.

As there are tenants in place with a 100 percent occupancy rate you will

There are no Body

Address: Price: Agent:

Corporate fees as the complex is on one title.

Contact: ATHERTON Offers over $520,000 Trisha Jackson Professionals Real Estate Atherton 0419 183 145

a

with built-in wardrobes. There’s a separate lounge room that can easily be converted into a third bedroom or a study. The open-plan living area

with timber benchtops, electric appliances, a breakfast bar, and a pantry. Located on a spacious, elevated 3,382m2 allotment, this property also offers a single-bay carport and a 12m x 6m powered shed with a 3.4m x 6m lean-to – ideal for storing your caravan or boat.

• Solid masonry block home

• 2 bedrooms with built-in robes, master bedroom is

air-conditioned

• Separate air-conditioned lounge room – Can be used as a 3rd bedroom or study

• Open plan living

• Central kitchen with timber benchtops, electric appliances, rangehood, breakfast bar and pantry

• Modern bathroom with a walk-in shower, toilet, linen cupboard and vanity unit

• Internal laundry with a sink, storage cupboard and direct access to clothesline

• Security screens throughout home

• Front patio – perfect spot for your morning coffee

• 1 bay carport on the side of home

• 12m x 6m powered shed with a mezz floor and 2 roller doors plus a 3.4m x 6m lean-to

• Rainwater storage tank

• Large elevated 3,382m2 allotment partly fenced

•

•

and

Popular buisness with onsite living quarters

AN incredible opportunity awaits with this well established business with high turnover, offering much more than just a classic diner experience.

This charming establishment not only serves delicious meals from a modern, fully equipped commercial kitchen but also features a curated selection of unique giftware and stylish clothing, attracting both diners and shoppers alike.

The spacious airconditioned indoor dining area seamlessly integrates with beautifully displayed giftware, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Additionally, the business holds a license for outdoor dining under the covered footpath, expanding seating capacity and enhancing the customer experience. There is a licence in place for BYO alcohol with the opportunity to expand and offer evening meals.

The residence features a renovated office, two well appointed bedrooms, and additional storage rooms, plus a unique loft space. Staff amenities, including separate toilets, add to the convenience.

A brand new 74.7KW with 76.8 KW lithium battery storage solar system in place. As back up a reliable 25 kVA generator ensures uninterrupted operation, while a large two bay shed provides ample space for vehicles and equipment. The fully fenced backyard offers plenty of room for pets or further enhancements. Don’t miss this rare chance to own a thriving business in an iconic township that is supported by locals and tourism alike.

For more information or a private inspection please call Janine Rielly on 0407 032 422 at Elders Real Estate today.

Beyond the business itself, this property includes comfortable on site living quarters, ideal for an owner operator or manager.

Address: Price: Agent: Contact: 19 Main Street, MILLAA MILLAA $700,000 plus SAV Janine Rielly Elders Real Estate Tablelands 0407 032 422

BIG WORD SEARCH

CROSSWORD

person on foot. (4)

25. A person who saves someone from a painful or bad experience. (10)

28. A designated area where people can go to eat a meal outdoors. (6,4)

29. A spoken exam for a university qualification. (4)

30. A piece of furniture containing a concealed chamber pot. (7)

31. Feel or express strong disapproval of something. (7)

DOWN:

2. A person who practices the art of classical ballet. (9)

3. A beet of a variety with broad edible white leaf stalks and green blades. (5)

4. Enlist (someone) in the armed forces. (7)

6. Very good; excellent. (6)

ACROSS:

1. Not clearly expressed or easily understood. (7)

5. A narrow strip of land with sea on either side, forming a link between two larger areas of land. (7)

P

P O C C O N L G L A C I E R I I P C A

R E L A X A T I O N P R O G R E S S T

10. A simple, non-flowering, and typically aquatic plant. (4)

11. Worn out from age or heavy use and unable to work or operate. (7,3)

12. A person who identifies and approaches suitable candidates employed elsewhere to fill business positions. (10)

13. A gelatinous substance obtained from certain red seaweeds. (4)

14. Involving or made by two separate parties. (9)

17. Extreme physical or mental suffering. (5)

19. A medium-sized sailing boat equipped for cruising or racing. (5)

20. (Of an activity or occasion) giving delight or pleasure. (9)

23. A four-wheeled carriage for a baby, pushed by a

7. A shrub or climbing plant with rounded or flattened flowering heads of small florets, native to Asia and America. (9)

8. The soft piece of flesh that hangs down at the back of the mouth. (5)

9. Coming after all others in time or order; final. (4)

15. (Of an argument or reaction) directed against a person rather than the position they are maintaining. (2,7)

16. A silvery-white metal, the chemical element of atomic number 50. (3)

18. The longest river in the world. (4,5)

21. Remove (a need or difficulty). (7)

22. Bring out or develop (something latent or potential). (6)

24. A massive, powerful herbivorous odd-toed ungulate of southeast Asia and Africa. (5)

26. A small ground-dwelling songbird with elongated hind claws and a song that is delivered on the wing. (4)

27. To tangle (threads, fibres, etc.) (5)

WEEKLY HOROSCOPES

You need to refrain from being the generous one in the group for once. Be on your best behaviour to avoid making irrational decisions. Difficulties with females you live with could cause emotional stress. Avoid scandals of any sort.

Stick to doing things that will make you a better person both physically and mentally. Direct your energy into physical entertainment. You could find yourself left with someone’s dirty laundry. You might find that a coworker has been two faced.

You may be able to impart knowledge that’s innovative to those searching for a new angle. Losses are evident. You’ll have great insight. It’s a good time to make changes to your living quarters that will give you more space. It will also help to de-clutter at the same time.

Exercise your talents and present your ideas to groups you think you can contribute to. Take your time. You must be careful not to ignore the needs of the youngsters in your family. Don’t count on getting any help from those you live with.

Things will be emotional with your mate. Be sure to cover all the necessary groundwork before signing binding contracts. You will be emotional about family matters. Avoid overloading your plate, it’s ok to take time for yourself and relax.

You will reach the most people if you speak out at an organisational function. Family talks may get a little combative. You will need to do a lot of research if you wish to get to the bottom of things that have been bothering you.

You may want to take a look at your direction in life. Arguments with employers or colleagues will be to your detriment. Your lover probably won’t put up with your behaviour. New and productive relationships will surface through work related events.

Make sure that all your legal papers are in proper order. Don’t expect new acquaintances to be completely honest about themselves. You should visit a friend or relative who hasn’t been well, let them know you’re there for them. Make plans that will take you to exotic destinations.

You can win points with children if you take the time to show interest in their accomplishments. Short trips may be tiring but rewarding. Dream a little this week. If you’re looking to do something worthwhile, consider volunteer work.

You can gain valuable cultural knowledge through dealing with foreigners. Take care of yourself or you can expect to suffer from a minor illness. Don’t blame others for your own stubbornness. They may cost you dearly.

You have more energy than the rest of the people you live with. Use your quick wit to win points with friends. Reevaluate your work situation, are you satisfied? Rid yourself of that which is old and no longer of use, the process will be rewarding.

You may attract attention if you get out socially. It’s time to reconnect with some of the people you used to know. Don’t be afraid to talk to close friends or relatives about pressing personal problems. Don’t press your luck with your loved ones.

THE QUASQUICENTENNIAL

(Pronounced ‘quas-quis-centennial’) (i.e the 130th Anniversary)

Of a continuous Presbyterian presence in Mareeba will be observed at the QCWA Hall, Wilkes Street, Mareeba (behind Meals on Wheels) on Sunday 9th March, 2025

CHRISTOPHER

SHANE ERNST

25/4/85 ~ 2/3/94

ACCOMMODATION - CAIRNS

Self contained, ideal for visiting OR floor effected. Ground floor, pet friendly, 50m to beach.

Villa Marine Apartments • 07 4055 7158

CAHILL, Jenny

The Cahill family are sad to announce the passing of Jenny who joined the angels in heaven on Tuesday the 18th of February, 2025. Aged 73 years. A beloved Wife, Mother and Nanna, Jenny passed away peacefully surrounded by family. An irreplaceable matriarch who will forever be in our hearts.

The relatives and friends of Jenny are respectfully invited to attend her funeral service which will be held at Yungaburra Catholic Church on Friday 28th February commencing at 3pm.

Following the service, interment will take place at the Yungaburra Cemetery.

Heaven has an angel, His name is Chris. This little boy we do miss, His beautiful smile, His cheeky grin. We needed him here, But God had the win. Sadly missed. Barry, Danielle, Kattina, Jessyk & Emily

JAMES CARUCCI

01.03.84 ~ 25.02.24

In loving memory of Husband and Father. Miss you everyday. Love your Wife Marj, David and Chloe.

James Carucci

It’s been a year since we lost you. Miss you always. Love Geoff, Cheryl, Donna, Kevin, Carol, Justin, Bradley and Shaun.

*ANIMAL OF THE WEEK*

NAME: Mike DOB: 26/08/23

Meet Magic Mike.... He is great around Kids, other Dogs and Cats and just loves all human company. He’s in perfect health and is fully Vaccinated, De-sexed and covered against worms, fleas & ticks. Now he’s ready and waiting to find his loving forever home. His adoption fee is $330.

Guilfoyle Funeral Services

Chapels, Crematorium & Memorial Gardens

Atherton: 4091 2147 Mareeba: 4092 1013

Local Family Owned & “Entrusted for over 70 years” www.guilfoylefunerals.com.au

Beverley Ann AXFORD

Late of Townsville, formerly of Mareeba. Passed away on Sunday 9th February, 2025. Aged 84 years.

Much loved Wife of Tommy (Dec.). Cherished Mother of Helen, Michael and Louise. Adored Sister of Carol and John (Dec.). Loved Grandmother, Great Grandmother and Great, Great Grandmother. Sister-in-Law to Lorna, John & Barbara, Peter (Dec.) & Laurel, Aunty and life long Friend of many.

As per Beverley’s wishes, a private service has been held.

Worship will commence at 10.00am followed by fellowship lunch. All welcome! Guilfoyle

Though your smile is gone forever, And your hand we cannot touch. Still we have so many memories, Of the one we loved so much. With love from Jill & families

Airconditioned,

BREED: Bull Arab X Boxer EFTPOS Available If you would like to meet MIKE- please call 0487 430 443.

to be carried out within Mareeba Shire. Authorised persons will inspect properties, as identified below, in accordance with section 133 of the LGA to monitor compliance with animal registration requirements of the AMCDA and the provisions of Council’s Local Law No. 2 (Animal Management) 2018 in regard to the duty of owners to provide a proper animal enclosure to prevent their dogs from wandering or escaping from the property.

Purpose and Scope of Programs

To ensure that all dogs over the age of twelve (12) weeks are registered in accordance with the AMCDA and that the owners of dogs have a proper enclosure that prevents their dog(s) from escaping from their property. Authorised persons may visit and inspect properties between the hours of 6.30am and 5.00pm Monday to Friday, with the majority of inspections to be carried out during normal working hours or at such other reasonable time dependent upon the circumstances of the householder.

Program Times

1. The selective inspection program for compliance with the registration requirements of section 46 of the AMCDA will commence on 13 March 2025 and end on 30 June 2025.

2. The selective inspection program for compliance with section 14 of Council’s Local Law No. 2 (Animal Management) 2018 - duty to provide proper enclosure and prevent the animal from wandering will commence on 13 March 2025 and end on 30 June 2025.

Properties to be Inspected

Properties may be inspected within the town of Dimbulah and surrounding locations to include any areas within the shire identified as containing challenges with the effective management of dogs. Access to Resolution and Program

The public may inspect or obtain a copy of Council’s resolution and the selective inspection program at Council’s office at no cost until the end of the program. These documents will also be available for viewing on Council’s website www.msc.qld.gov. au until the end of the program.

T-MSC2025-02

REGISTER OF PRE-QUALIFIED SUPPLIERS (ROPS) OCCASIONAL PLANT HIRE 2025 - 2026

Mareeba Shire Council invites tenders from a variety of suitably qualified and experienced Tenderers for appointment as a pre-qualified supplier of the wet hire (with operator) and dry hire (without operator) of mobile and fixed plant and equipment.

Tender documents are available on Council’s online e-procurement system, VendorPanel- https://www. vendorpanel.com.au/PublicTenders.aspx. All enquiries or clarifications must be via the online forum which will close 3 days prior to closing time. Council officers are unable to respond to verbal or emailed enquiries.

The closing time for electronic lodgement of Tenders is Thursday, 20 March 2025 at 11:00am. Regulation 228(7) of the Local Government Regulation 2012 may be applied.

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

bellevue7@westnet. com.au With references.

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

CLASSIFIEDS

T-MSC2025-07

REGISTER OF PRE-QUALIFIED SUPPLIERS (ROPS) TRADE AND PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

Mareeba Shire Council invites written submissions from a variety of suitably qualified and experienced Suppliers for Appointment as a Pre-Qualified Supplier - Trade and Professional Services.

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

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

God has revealed in the Quran: “There are signs in the creation of the heavens and the earth, and in the alternation of night and day for people of understanding.”

In this verse God addresses the objection of those who argue “there is no proof of Gods existence!” God invites us to reflect on the world around us and to ponder and think. For more information please contact us at: mareeba.mosque@gmail.com

MINING LEASE NOTICE AND ENVIRONMENTAL AUTHORITY

Mineral Resources Act 1989 – Section 252

RURAL AND REMOTE HOME CARE SERVICE PROGRAM MANAGER

• Do you want to lead an amazing team of compassionate support workers?

• Do you have a commitment to support our ageing population?

• Are you driven to apply your contract management and data analysis skills to negotiate through the upcoming sector reforms?

This is a permanent part-time position of 25 hours per week (Tuesday to Thursday), based in Ravenshoe FNQ, 2hr from Cairns. The Program Manager is responsible to the Management Committee of the Ravenshoe Community Centre Inc.

The closing time for electronic lodgement of Tenders is Thursday, 20 March 2025 at 11:00am. Regulation 228(7) of the Local Government Regulation 2012 may be applied.

Peter Franks

NOTICE OF PRAECIPE

Environmental Protection Act 1994 – Section 152

Proposed Gold Mining Operation - Mining Lease Application Number 100390 - For a term of 15 years

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

Chief Executive Officer

PO Box 154, MAREEBA QLD 4880

OF

Proposed Development

Make a submission from: 26th February, 2025 to 21st March, 2025

Safety Accreditation Scheme, established by the Building and Construction Industry (Improving Productivity) Act 2016, at the time of entering into the contract for the building work and maintains accreditation while the building work is being carried out. Tender documentation (including map) may be obtained from Council website.

Material Change of Use

Nature-Based Tourism

Where: 211 Bruce Weir Road, Dimbulah On: Lots 64 & 65 on HG59

Tenders must be emailed to: tender@etheridge.qld.gov.au

Approval Sought: Development Permit

By 3.00pm on 30th August, 2024

Application Ref: MCU/25/0003

Council reserves the right to invite all tenderers to change their tenders to take account of a change in the tender specification.

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

All queries with reference to the Tender must be emailed to Tender@etheridge.qld.gov.au.

Mareeba Shire Council PO Box 154, MAREEBA, QLD, 4880 info@msc.qld.gov.au 1300 308 461 www.msc.qld.gov.au

WEEKLY SUNDAY BINGO

Public notification requirements are in accordance with the Planning Act 2016.

PROPOSED PERMANENT ROAD CLOSURE

Attention is directed to an application for Permanent Road

Closure of an area of about 1310m2 being part of the Kennedy Highway adjoining Lot 2 on RP744932 (locality Upper Barron) and shown as (A) on Drawing LAGIS-1332. Comments or objections to the application must be submitted no later than 01 April 2025, in writing to the Department of Natural Resources and Mines, Manufacturing and Regional and Rural Development Atherton Office, PO Box 210, Atherton Qld 4883 or online at the Queensland Government’s website at ‘Current Road Closure Applications’: https://www.qld.gov.au/environment/land/state/ roads.

Members of the public interested in the proposed road closure can apply under the Right to Information Act 2009 (RTI Act) to access any comments/objections received. If you lodge comments or an objection, please include in your comments/objection advice whether you would like to be consulted if this issue becomes the subject of an access application under the RTI Act. For further details and to view a copy of the drawing, contact the Department of Natural Resources and Mines, Manufacturing and Regional and Rural Development Atherton Office, on 3708 7108 quoting reference number 2023/001540 or view the application online on the Queensland Government’s website at ‘Current Road Closure Applications’: https://www.qld.gov.au/environment/ land/state/roads.

Mareeba Netball Association AGM

3rd March, 6pm

Mareeba Toyota Meeting Room

It is advised that an application has been made for a mining lease and environmental authority under the provisions of the above mentioned Acts, for the mining/purpose of Gold, Living quarters/camp, Processing Plant, Workshop/machinery/storage on the following land parcels within the Cook Shire Council: lot 1 on CP907719 (permit and access) and road reserve (access).

The application is located at approximately 60km South-West of Lakeland.

The applicant is: Jayde Aaron McGowan (100%)

Date & time applications lodged: 3 April 2024, 09:00am

Mining activities to be carried out include: Gold Mining

Neil Gregory Bradshaw © of Mareeba, Queensland, is not a voluntary transactor in commerce, and is the irrefutable Holder in Due Course of my properties and all associated copyright protected Trade Names since unrebutted lawful Reconveyance to the Land and Soil jurisdiction of Terra Australis also known as the Commonwealth of Australia Public Recording Number RPP44 63900 05100 29014 83607, Proclamation Date 6 August, 2024.

Mining Lease Application Documents

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

This program aims to maintain and promote independence and quality of life for the frail aged, younger people with disabilities and other assessed care needs, and veterans.

RNRHCS employs approx. 35-40 staff in various roles, including administration, team leaders and home care support workers and is contracted to deliver in-home and community support to approx. 220 clients within three formal government agreements (CHSP, QCSS, VHC) and numerous brokerage arrangements with Home Care Package providers and plan managed NDIS participants.

This position has signi fi cant delegated authority, works under limited direction and supervises other employees whilst establishing and monitoring key performance indicators and contracted deliverables across the breadth of program operations.

A full copy of the Position Description can be downloaded from: www.ravenshoecommunitycentre.org.au/rnr/rnrstaff/

Essential duties include, but are not limited to:

• Deliver the program within budget

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

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-100759939 Variation 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 27 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 4:30pm (AEST) on the last day of the objection period at the following address: Jayde McGowan

a Faceted Ruby Donated by Trevor Hannam Tiana MacConachie - Ticket 11267

C/- Claire Mackney PO Box 706, Mareeba Qld. 4880

Objection for the mining lease application:

8: Gem Tree with Assorted Agates Donated by Trevor Hannam Gill Burrage - Ticket 00335

• Ensure compliance with various contract, legal and organisational requirements and WHS obligations

• Manage HR and IR responsibilities

• Ensure the standards of the Human Services Quality Framework and Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission are met

• Complete all government reporting and proactively engage with Funding Contract Managers

• Ensure the integrity, accuracy and privacy of data management

• Analyse data monthly to manage capacity and ensure targets are being delivered

• Maintain CQI systems and regularly review Policies and Procedures

• Facilitate professional relationships with staff, clients and stakeholders

• Proactively pursue opportunities to improve the program and prepare proposals to relevant funding bodies

Remuneration SCHAD’s Award between Level 5 – Level 6, will be determined based on applicant qualifi cations and relevant Industry experience. Your experience/qualifi cations will ideally include:

• Management experience in the Aged Care Sector in the last 2-5 years and knowledge of planned reforms

• Evidence in managing a diverse workforce of similar size. Understanding of HR and IR obligations

• Contract Management and Reporting

• Proven knowledge of industry quality frameworks, relevant legislation and WH&S obligations

• Experience in using Information Management Systems for the purpose of scheduling, payroll, claiming, data analysis and reporting

• Of fi ce 365 - including all Microsoft applications

• Attention to detail, time management and co-ordination/prioritisation skills

• Motivation and ability to work autonomously and as part of a larger team

Please forward all expressions of interest for the full application pack to: hro@ravcom.org.au

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;

9: Jade & Sterling Silver Necklace, Bracelet & Earring Set - Donated by the Club Mark - Ticket 00356

• 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.

10: Sterling Silver Necklace - Donated by the Club Lois Cross - Ticket 11455 11: Quartz Gem with Spider Pattern Donated by Judy Chapman Fay - Ticket 11820

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.

12: Wooden Clock - Donated by Rob McGrath Diane Alca - Ticket 00333

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;

13: Sterling Silver Pendant with a Faceted Cubic Zirconia - Donated by Lois Cross Debbie Davis - Ticket 11375 14: Family Voucher to the Crystal Caves Donated by The Crystal Caves Maurice - Ticket 11328

COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER

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)

and

15: Camping Washing Machine - Donated by

• 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.

For

RENTAL PROPERTIES WANTED

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

THE lights will be shining at Borzi Park on Friday night as the 2025 Football Queensland Premier League season kicks off, with the Mareeba Bulls Ladies team to host Leichhardt at home for their first match.

The Mareeba Bulls men’s side will also have their first hit out this Saturday night at Trinity Beach when they take on the Marlin Coast Rangers.

Women’s coach Christian Mukadi is optimistic about his young squad’s attacking potential and hopes the first match will yield a victory.

“It’s a great opening game. We played well against Stratford in the cup, and I’m just hoping our attack will click and we can score some goals,” he said.

The action will start at 7pm. On Saturday night, the men’s team will begin their campaign on the road against the Rangers and the squad is keen to put in a strong performance away from home.

Coach Victor Madrid acknowledged the challenge of facing the reigning premiers in the Bulls’ opening match but emphasised that the team were

THE eagerly anticipated Tradie Golf Day Final that was cancelled last year due to wet weather will be played this week at Mareeba Golf Club’s first Tradie Day of the year.

The Mareeba course has dried up with help from the recent sunny weather, signalling the perfect time to host the first event for 2025. It will also feature the 2024 finals match that was set to be played in December last year.

prepared for the test.

“We are looking forward to it. It’s a tough opening game, but a great opportunity to see where we are at,” he said.

The Mareeba Bulls hosted a season launch on Friday night, where around 70 sponsors, life members, committee members, and players came together to welcome the new season for the men’s and women’s QPL teams.

The night was a celebration of the club’s strong community support and excitement for the challenges ahead. Fans are encouraged to come out and support their teams.

Following the matches there will be an awards presentation and a barbecue held at the clubhouse.

The event is a 9-hole, 2-ball ambrose competition with nominations closing tomorrow at 4pm. Players are asked to arrive by 2.30pm to register for a 3.30pm shotgun start.

Sponsored by Cairns Hardware, the event will feature $1,500 worth of prizes including $500 worth of vouchers, with a $100 voucher for the winning team.

To nominate call the club on 4092 1528.

Lawrence who finished on 41-not-out from 51 balls.

FANS who turned out to Loder Park on the weekend to watch the cricket were left wondering who would’ve claimed victory in the final local derby of the season.

Round 17 of the Far North Cricket competition marked the third and final matchup of the season between Atherton and Mareeba.

Atherton had the home ground advantage and were going for a clean sweep of 3-0, while Mareeba were fighting for a win to boost their chances of making finals.

But the wet weather had other ideas for the match and after just 22 overs into the first innings it was canned.

Atherton were off to a roaring start however, with a fine effort from opening batsman Charlie

Other efforts from Logan Poggioli (31 from 32) and the return of captain Tom Boorman (21 from 31) helped boost Atherton’s score to 3/100 before the game was cancelled.

Mareeba bowler Angus Campman struck a blow early, getting opening batsman Alex Nasser out after he notched up just two runs from 12 balls. Ross Ferguson and junior Kye Harris also claimed a wicket.

There a now four weeks of competition left before the finals rounds begin.

Next week Atherton will take on Barron River at Loder Park at 12.30pm and Mareeba will face up against Mulgrave in Cairns at 12.30pm.

LEFT: Atherton’s Charlie Lawrence was off to a roaring start before the game was abandoned. ABOVE: Mareeba’s Ruku Chilia puts the heat on the Atherton batsmen.

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