The Express Newspaper 30 April 2025

EXPRESS The

Celebrating 15 years of delivering news WEDNESDAY 30 APRIL, 2025

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ANZAC DAY IN PICS PAGE 17

AROUND 45 riders from the SAOs (Seventy-and-Older) cycling group and Atherton Rotary Club’s weekly cycling club donned red socks in a special bike ride last week to raise awareness of prostate cancer. Two members of the SAOs group, 70-year-old Joe O’Dea (left) and Ivor Anderson (aged 71), were diagnosed with prostate cancer and want to warn other men of the danger and encourage them to get tested.

See story Page 4

ONE HEART AT A TIME PAGE 11

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High tea for Kenyan cause Distillery vies for big award EXPRESS The

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The Express is published by Portasea Pty Ltd, 141 Constance St, Mareeba QLD 4880. ACN: 141 250 213 Printed by Townsville print centre, 623-645 Flinders St. Townsville QLD 4810

A CHARITABLE organisation NEXT to names of countries aimed at providing support to like BarRegained’s Robyn Lindsay during bados, Thailand Venezuela, the litvulnerable children and living in her recent visit to Kenya with four tle local town of Walkamin sounds a western Kenya with disabilities sponsored students. of place, rightlya so. and bitinout poverty is and hosting our verytoown FNQ Rum from specialBut fundraiser coincides withMt Mother’s Uncle Day. Distillery has been shortRegained is an other Athertonlisted alongside renowned disbased group tilleries fromthat thoseprovides countries for Rum educational Producerand of medical the Yearsupport at the prestigious for the children and is hosting a CompeInternational Wine and Spirit hightition tea on 10 May to continue (IWSC). their work.

The IWSC is renowned for its rigThe high tea willprocess, be held which at orous judging evaluDestiny Loder St, Atherton ates Cafe, spirits based on taste, balance, fromfinish, 2pm to 4pm. and value.

There be home“Thiswill competition is also known made delicacies local industry’ as the ‘Oscars ofand the Spirits entertainment offer as well as or it’s likeonthe Olympics in a way, the some itemsProducer for sale plus raffles.

Rum Trophy is one of the Tickets are $25 peraccolades,” person Mt Unmost sought-after andcle’s mayhead be booked online at distiller Mark Watkins said. www.trybooking.com/DAOPR “Being recognised on this level by Gluten-free will rewarding be the IWSCoptions is incredibly for available our team.

“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.”

Mt Uncle Distillery Owner and Head Distiller Mark Watkins with FNQ A COLOURFUL and eventful fun spread out Rum’s across aaward1km loop.

Rum is the run thatFNQ raises money for only local Australian winning Iridium X rum.

Participants can “walk, jog, run, brand shortlisted the Rum animal rescues will be for making its Producor even crawl” through 1–5km of FNQ Rum, during stations. proudly” along- locally and internationally for their dis- a stellar year for wayertoTrophy, Mareeba“standing this weekend to colour, foam, and obstacle which it has already secured multiple tinct fl avours and exceptional quality”. side global giants such as Foursquare support the local refuge.

The event will also include World powder Rum Awards “We use sugar cane nectar to pro- awards. At thepersonal Rum USA from Barbados, Colour Frenzy hosts fun runs Sang Som packs, foam and earlier this year, FNQ Rum home track, duce a more rich and sweet fl avour and Distillery Thailand, and Ron Ronationwide and from donates part of the bubble zones, took a dog-friendly for itsmedals Platinum Cane then we age the spirit in ex-Australian two gold medalsfinisher proceeds from each to a local for all participants, ble Viejo fromevent Venezuela.

Cask Finanimal “This refuge. Each year their cements goal food Agave and market stalls along nomination FNQ red wine barrels, so it combines these Spirit and Iridium ish, alongside with beingraffles, named World’sand kids’ is toRum’s donate position a total of $250,000 to force in nice flavours well,” Mark said. giveaways, as a leading Spirit. Additionally, “And we’re situated in a really nice Best Sugarcaneactivities. rescues country. the across globaltherum industry and is a tesThis weekend, will work, be The event is also was dog friendly, to quality tament to yearsthey of hard dedica- area, the fluctuations in temperature the brand’s commitment making way to Mareeba withwith all animals required a silver medalto be kept with the hot days and cold nights helps further highlighted tion, their and innovation,” Mark said. workeras Felicity said.really well.” “This event is more just a on a leash. where they donate part of theits rums at than the International Wine and Spirit thePollard spirit age FNQwill Rum describes “We receiveThe no Mt government fun run,has it’s aalso colourful celebration for itsThe proceeds the Mareeba colourful Competition Iridium X Rum. event will Uncle Distillery beingtocrafted “from Animal the rich volcanic funding and rely on fundraisers, raising funds to support us and Refuge. take place this Sunday at the Mark will be travelling to London recently started distribution in the UK, soils and sugarcane of this unique community other rescues across Australia.”

“Events Colour Frenzy donations, Bicentennial Lakes, 2A Abbott to attend the awards ceremony on 12 adding to theirsupport many successes. tropical like region” and “produces a range and expenses, like vet The event is a 5kmNovember. run featuring Street, Mareeba, with the event make it possible for us to continue to keep up withThis IWSC recognition follows of rums that have been celebrated both rescuing, rehabilitating, and bills that average to more than five colour stations, a foam station, area opening at 8.30am and the fun rehoming animals in need,” refuge $10,000 a month. and an inflatable crawl station run set to start at 9.30am.

Colour fun run to support local refuge

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Crackdown on feeding crocs

OPEN DAY

NEW offences and increased fines have been brought penalties for existing offences which aim to deter in by the State Government to crack down on feeding people from engaging in behaviours that pose a serious risk to public safety and animal conservation. and interfering with crocodiles.

The on-the-spot fine for deliberately disturbing or Two new offences have been introduced making it unlawful to unintentionally feed a crocodile by dis- feeding crocodiles has increased from $483 to $2580, carding food and remaining in close proximity to a with the maximum court-imposed fine increasing crocodile. from $6452 to $26,615.

Discarding food, including fish frames, scraps and The on-the-spot fine for interfering with a crocobait, in a way that may attract crocodiles to a public dile trap has increased from $645 to $2580, with place such as a boat ramp, jetty, pontoon or camping the maximum court-imposed fine increasing from (T&C apply.) area can now result in an on-the-spot fine of $483 or $19,356 to $26,615. a maximum court-imposed fine of $6,452.

But State Member for Hill Shane Knuth, who Knowingly remaining within close proximity to a introduced the KAP’s Crocodile Control, Conservacrocodile that is on, or partly on, land can now result tion, and Safety Bill 2024 into Parliament last month, in an on-the-spot fine of $806 orMonday a maximum courtslammed the new7.30am offences and -fines as “nothing to Thursday 4.30pm imposed fine of $16,130. more than a band-aid fi x”.

We specialise in large quantity grow-to-orders. Bananas, coffee, This offence complements tropical the existing “disturb“The State Government hastrees, failed exotics, to managefruit the and sub-tropical natives, rainforest ing” offence which prevents people from approachcrocodile crisis for over a decade, and now it’s comtrees, bushfoods, bird and butterfly attractors, wind breaks. ing or pursuing a crocodile or driving a boat or vehi- pletely out of control,” he said.

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

Visit: www.yuruga.com.au Conservation officers now also have the power to terways - they’ll tell you the crocodile population has 5970 Kennedy Hwy, Walkamin (on the Jump-Up between Mareeba and Atherton) direct people to move away from a crocodile to avoid exploded. “This is a Northern Queensland issue, and Phone: (07) 4093 3826 • be Email: nursery@yuruga.com.au it should managed locally, not from over 1,800 km any potential human-crocodile interactions.

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

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Kuranda Range Road traffic has ‘flatlined’ TRAFFIC growth on the Kuranda Range Road has “flatlined” despite the rise in population, according to a leading regional economic research firm.

Cummings Economics has released its latest research on the troubled transport route which shows that while the population of the Cairns local government area increased by 20% from 2009-2023, traffic on the range road only rose by 3% during the entire time.

That equates to a rise of just 0.2% per year.

In the preceding 33 years, traffic using the range road had grown around 5% a year, while the population rose by 2.9% a year.

“While average population growth from 2009 to 2023 at 1.3% per annum was slower compared with the earlier 33 years, population still grew by 20% over the 14-year period and on previous trends, traffic growth could have been expected to have been above this and not below,” Bill Cummings said.

“While international visitor traffic to Kuranda has been down in recent years, most international visitors travel to and from Kuranda by train, cableway or by large coaches without substantial impact on road traffic counts.

“Indications that the constraints of the road via Kuranda has been affecting traffic growth since 2009 is supported by the fact that traffic on other range roads in the region – the Rex, Gillies and Palmerston roads – has grown over the same period by 27%, 29%, and about 24% respectively.”

Latest figures show that just over 8340 vehicles on average use the Kuranda range road every day.

Mr Cummings concluded that the Kuranda Range Road, built 80 years ago during the early phases of World War II, had “reached its design limit and is providing a bottleneck to traffic that is imposing substantial costs to the region’s economy”.

“Cairns, as the region’s main service

Business case still coming NO date has yet been given as to when the community will get to see what the State Government’s business plan for the Barron River bridge at Kuranda shows.

In its budget, the Federal Government announced $245 million to contribute to the cost of replacing the ageing structure and Prime Minister Anthony Albanese reiterated that commitment in Cairns recently.

But the LNP has yet to specifically commit any funds to the project, with LNP candidate for Kennedy Annette Swaine advising that the Coalition would have a $6 billion Regional Infrastructure centre, port, airport, road and rail head, is situated on a narrow coastal plain that has limited room to expand to the north, west and east. Expansion to the south involves taking valuable agricultural land out of production and threatening the viability of Mulgrave Sugar Mill,” he said.

“As a regional capital/hub city, Cairns services the biggest and fastest growing population in northern Australia and is destined to grow.

“It is vital that it has highly efficient transport links across the ranges to service the population of 70,000 and growing industries in its hinterland.

“It is also vital that Cairns has a short fast transport corridor to enable the city’s urban footprint to expand into the area west of the ranges.

“The whole issue has been left unattended for decades. It is going to cost a lot of money and if another route will be more efficient for traffic movements to meet the region’s

Fund through which to help fund a new bridge.

State Member for Barron River Bree James has welcomed the funding commitment from the Federal Government which was “something the former Labor State Government was never able to secure”.

Ms James said the business case was “being actively considered by the Crisafulli Government, and the Far North will shortly be informed of the plan”.

“I won’t stop fighting for this until it’s delivered,” she said. growth needs over the next 80 years, it needs to be explored.

“The job is obviously beyond the resources of the State Government and the first step is to recognise that this is a road project of national importance that would involve extending Highway 1 classification to the Mareeba transport hub and for the Commonwealth Government to meet 80% of the costs.”

Mr Cummings said that a decision was made about 2007 by the then Labour Government to not proceed with a proposed upgrading of the Kuranda Range Road with an estimated cost of about $800 million at that time.

“Since cyclone Jasper’s extreme 100-year rainfall and flooding event in December 2023, the road has been further constrained with lane closures. Safety problems with the Barron River bridge at Kuranda have also been causing disruption of traffic flows,” he added.

A SPECIAL event has been held at Yungaburra to raise and illuminate the Australian flag for the first time at night at the town’s cenotaph.

Protocol does not permit the Australia flag to be flown at night unless it is illuminated so the town has previously had to take down the flag in the evening.

The town’s Beautification Committee and Military Commemoration Committee were responsible for installing the lights at the cenotaph which is located in Kehoe Place.

Representing the Australian Defence Forces at the event was Laurie Choate who proudly hoisted the flag.

See Anzac Day pictures, Page 17

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The Express, Wednesday April 30 2025 PAGE 3

Riders rock red socks

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TWO local social clubs banded together and donned red socks in a special bike ride last week to raise awareness of prostate cancer after two of their members were diagnosed.

The SAO (Seventy-and-Older) cycling group joined the Atherton Rotary Club’s weekly cycling club last Wednesday, with 45 riders taking part, all of whom wore red socks to raise awareness and promote the message to seek early detection of prostate cancer.

Two members of the SAOs, Ivor Anderson (age 71) and Joe O’Dea (age 70), were diagnosed with prostate cancer and are warning their fellow men of the dangers.

Mr Anderson was fortunate enough to have caught it early and underwent surgery to have his prostate gland removed. He said his recovery has been “so far, so good”.

“It’s so much easier being proactive. If you can get in early, there’s not going to be any issues, but if you leave it too late, it can affect a lot more than the prostate and it can spread very easily,” Mr Anderson said.

“A lot of older men have got symptoms and haven’t done anything about it, and they’re covered in cancer. It’s not a good journey if you’re not proactive.

“I was referred to the urologist by my GP and they did a lot of testing and discovered I had cancer.

“It went on for about three years and then it started to increase.

So, I had the decision of having chemotherapy and radiation, or

have removal, and I chose to have removal and that’s been a good journey so far.”

However, Mr O’Dea, is still undergoing treatment such as hormone therapy to diminish his testosterone levels and prevent the cancer from spreading.

“You don’t know you have it, basically. I thought I was getting arthritis in my back, and I started getting up for a pee quite a bit at night,” Mr O’Dea said.

“I used to do the 5km park runs every Saturday morning, but I slowly started losing stamina.

“Now, I can’t walk very far, and I can’t walk on an incline without having to stop, but I’m doing a lot better than I was a few months ago.”

The men are encouraging others to get tested and are trying to spread the message as far as they can.

“I think men don’t get tested because it’s just a male thing and they’re trying to tough it out,” Mr O’Dea said.

“A lot of people just don’t want to go to the doctor as well, but it’ll give you a longer life and a better quality of life if you get ahead of it.”

Mr Anderson said: “I think not being proactive is the big issue with most men. You need to be in front of it and don’t leave it too late.

“And when you’ve been through the journey, there’s places like Cancer Council Queensland who are very helpful in both physical and mental stimulation, and they can help you with any issues you may have had during that time.”

Feast of the Three Saints 75TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION!

Rotary’s Project Red Socks was started in 2014 after the death of Dennis Denmead PhD, who was a long-time member of the Rotary Club of Townsville Sunrise.

Following this, 80 male members underwent tests and discovered that 14 had a positive indication that they had prostate cancer.

The red socks were chosen as the symbol of the project because Mr Denmead was an Arsenal football supporter and only ever wore red socks.

They aim to act as a reminder for men to regularly consult with their medical practitioner about prostate cancer.

For more information contact Ray Francis from the Atherton Rotary Club on 0417 626 971 or visit the Cancer Council Queensland’s website at www. cancerqld.org.au.

Further information can also be found on the Prostate Cancer

10am

Italian Mass

12 noon

he risk rate can increase at T middle age. amily history of the disease F is relevant. rostate cancer in young P males is more aggressive. arly detection is essential E for survival rates.

Concelebrated by Apostolic Nuncio Balvo, Bishop Joe Caddy & Father Kerry Crowley.

Unveiling of the Three Saints. Eulogy of the Three Saints. Hymns by St Alfio Choir.

Entertainment, Italian Sausages, Ravioli, Arancini, Grilled Fish, Calamari, Salads, Pizza, Chestnuts, Granita, Gelati, Spinge (Crispelli) Italian Biscuits, Sweets, Fruit Salad & Barista Made Coffee.

Procession

3pm

Concelebrated by Apostolic Nuncio Balvo, Bishop Joe Caddy & Father Kerry Crowley, followed by the Blessing and Veneration of the Relics of the Three Saints.

4pm

Cannoli stall opens until sold out.

Entertainment & Festival Foods Continue.

5pm

Junior & Senior Competitions. $200 Prize money for Junior’s, $500 for Senior!

7pm

Drawing of the $5,000 Travel voucher raffle!

EVERYONE WELCOME!

PAGE 4 The Express, Wednesday April 30 2025

here has been a 21% T increase in the death rate in rural Australians.

Three Saints positioned on Vara, followed by Solemn Procession. Rosary and Hymns.

Procession accompanied by Cairns Municipal Band.

Cannoli

Visit our website www.feastofthethreesaints.com.au for more information.

I t has a higher death rate than breast cancer in women.

2pm

Afternoon Mass (English)

Bus tickets available from Mareeba & Atherton. Please contact Vera at secretary@feastofthethreesaints.com.au or 0407 593 009 to book & pay.

rostate cancer caused P the death of 3,507 men in Australia in 2022.

Dance performance by Louise’s Dance Works Academy

FREE ENTRY DANCING | AUTHENTIC SICILIAN FOOD | COMPETITIONS | FIREWORKS

ne in five males in Australia O will be diagnosed with prostate cancer by the age of 85.

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Dancers

4 Harold St, Silkwood

PROSTATE CANCER FACTS

Order of Events The Feast

Sunday, 4th May, 2025 St John’s Parish

Foundation of Australia’s website at www.pcfa.org.au.

Spaghetti Eating Competition Raffle Draw

7:30pm

Fireworks

Dynamic Fireworks Display.

Music and dancing till 9pm.

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New nature park for Dimbulah A FORMER lime farm is to become a 380-hectare nature park on the outskirts of Dimbulah which will open up more tourism opportunities for the town, the shire and visitors.

The Material Change of Use proposal, for a property off Bruce Weir Rd, received a chorus of approval from Mareeba Shire Councillors at its meeting in April, with Cr Nipper Brown summing up support that it “would be very good for Dimbulah” as it would bring more tourists to the township.

The development would combine two titles which were “slowly reverting back to [their] natural state” after most of the horticultural enterprises had been removed, according to an assessment report prepared by council officers.

The site has a house, multiple sheds and associated structures and the western boundary of the two land parcels abuts the Walsh River. A former six-hectare lime tree orchard was removed and the farm is used for animal husbandry.

In submitting their application, the owners said Dimbulah was only five minutes away and contains cafes, a new RV park and other businesses that would benefit from the addition of a wildlife park.

They said the property had significant beauty and was “loaded with wildlife” including echidna, resident wedge-tailed eagles, Jabirus, some swamp buffalo, a small herd of camels, a few goats and four different

types of deer (roughly 250 deer), namely, red deer, fallow deer, rusa deer and chital deer.

The entire farm boundary had 2m high ring locked fencing.

“Everything is free roaming and exists in a natural state,” the owners said.

The site will have portable toilet services, up to 15 corrugated iron roof barbecue areas, and picnic benches and seating along the trails.

The information and amenities area will be provided with some vending machines for drinks and the provision of potable water.

There will also be an area near the parking and adjoining the existing shed that will have some very tame animals for visitors to interact with.

A second stage of development will introduce up to four camping sites at discreet distances throughout the site, with the option for environmentally responsible cabins.

The farm will limit access to 30 vehicles per day at a specified parking area and be open daily between 7.30am and 6pm.

A website was being developed which will provide information on the farm and the animals, and will include a booking system to obtain security access to the property.

The council report concluded the project would “enhance the existing natural features of the property, providing a nature-based attraction to support Dimbulah, surrounding townships and Mareeba’s region.”

Feel good musical fundraiser

Mt Garnet ready to buzz THE quiet town of Mt Garnet will be buzzing over the May Day long weekend when thousands of people make their way there for the annual rodeo and races.

The three-day festival which features two days of thoroughbred racing and a one-day action-packed rodeo as well as nights filled with live music and campfires.

On Friday 2 May, the racing kicks off with a five-race program including the Battle of the Bush, and a theme of “Hues of Blue” for fashionistas.

On Saturday, a six-race program will be staged including the Mt Garnet Cup, along with Fashions on the Field, with the theme of “Glamour in Savannah”.

The entertainment doesn’t stop there though, with Black Image and Careless providing non-stop music.

On Sunday, it’s all about the rodeo action in the arena which will kick off at 9am, including bull riding, saddle bronc, rope and tie, and barrel racing as well as a live auction, grand parade and trade show.

Dusty Haven will provide live entertainment.

Those who wish to attend can purchase a weekend pass that includes all three days (racing, cabarets, rodeo and camping) for $130 online at www.trybooking.com/events/ landing/1198902 A one-day pass costs $25 and should also be purchased online.

Patrons are advised that it’s best to use cash at the grounds given that wi-fi is not reliable, but there will be ATMs at the venue.

A HOST of the Tablelands’ best musicians will take the stage to assist one of their own on Saturday, in a fundraiser variety performance night for a cherished volunteer.

High calibre acts including the popular ‘A Street Band’, Gary Dozier, Nicole Willinger, Bruce Thompson, Matt Krolik and Neville Condon will hit the stage at Tablelands Music Lovers Club, Grainger Lane Atherton.

Local tree lopper and club volunteer Nimai Plantener was unfortunately involved in a truck accident earlier this year. While no one was seriously injured, he has suffered financial stress and could do with a lift.

“His hard work was instrumental in the establishment of TML’s new venue in Grainger Lane. From lighting to the art on the walls, his efforts helped see the building take shape from an empty warehouse to the top-class music venue today,” organiser Bruce Thompson said.

“When I heard of Nimai’s misfortune, I naturally wanted to find a way to help him out. A fundraising concert immediately came to mind.

“At TML, all our volunteers are cherished. If something like this were to happen to any of us, we would jump to each other’s aid. Every act on the night will be donating their time and talents.”

A host of fantastic raffles with prizes from supporting local businesses will be drawn between each act, including a major prize of a $200 grocery voucher from IGA Atherton.

“Simply put, it’s a great night out and a feel-good atmosphere knowing every dollar will go directly to this great cause,” Bruce said.

The night begins at 7pm, with the door and bar open at 6:30pm. Cash is preferred on the night.

Annette

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The Express, Wednesday April 30 2025 PAGE 5

School set to Multicultural festival applications open enhance campus

APPLICATIONS for the Mareeba Multicultural Festival are now open, and stallholders and performers are being called to be part of the “vibrant” celebration.

Commercial and not-forprofit food vendors that represent the cultural diversity of the Mareeba Shire and services that support diverse communities or focus on emerging cultural groups in the area are being invited to apply.

Performers who can help bring the festival to life by showcasing their talent and culture are also being sought – whether it’s dance, martial arts, vocal performances, or other unique cultural displays.

The Mareeba Multicultural Festival is set to be held on 30 August at Arnold Park, Mareeba.

For more information and to apply, visit www. mareebamulticulturalfestival. com.au

Free microchipping, registration helps owners and pets reunite PET owners can take advantage of a free microchipping and registration day being offered by Tablelands Regional Council this Thursday.

“Registering and microchipping is the best way to ensure animals are reunited with their owners so we’re offering free microchipping for dogs and cats, and free registration for dogs who haven’t been previously registered with us,” Mayor Rod Marti said.

The law requires all dogs and cats over 12-weeks-old to be microchipped.

The cost for registration is $27 for desexed dogs (documents required), $109 for entire dogs, and $53 for entire dogs with a level 3 obedience training (documents required) and $55 for entire dogs who are kennel club members.

TRC uses lifetime registration tags and registrations which are due on 30 June each year.

The free microchipping day is on Thursday at TRC’s animal management facility, 30 Albrecht Street, Tolga. From 9am to 12 noon and from 1pm to 4pm.

Lions help recent flood victims

THE Atherton Lions Club has handed over $3000 to Lions Clubs in Ingham and Cardwell to assist those communities recover from recent flooding events.

A total of $1630 was donated by the local community through direct deposits and donation tins at various locations and at the markets.

Atherton Lions topped that up to $3000 and passed on the funds to the two other clubs.

The Atherton Lions also recently donated $2000 to the Atherton Girl Guides.

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PAGE 6 The Express, Wednesday April 30 2025

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KID’S PLAYGROUND • POKIES

SPORTS BAR • KENO • TAB

KURANDA’S Steiner School is looking to the community to assist in creating a “shared vision” for the next 10 years.

Set on 42 hectares of rainforest, the school is making plans to enhance its school campus by developing buildings and outdoor spaces.

The facility provides early childhood services along with primary school and high school (to Grade 8). It is renown for its holistic and creative approach to education, whilst upholding academic excellence and the highest standards for its pupils.

New principal Chani Cardwell says the school is inviting locals to share their ideas and suggestions about the school’s future development in a community workshop on Friday.

“We have the land. We have ambition. We now need a shared vision to take us through to 2035,” Chani explained.

“We aim to create a region-leading learning environment that offers the finest education for generations to come.

“We’re ensuring that our buildings and outdoor spaces are well-organised, beautifully designed, and efficiently delivered to enhance our school campus in a way that positively impacts the schooling experiences of young people. Good design really matters.”

Community views from the workshop will shape the school’s Master Plan, and the future development of its Kuranda campus.

Sarah Rizvi, long-time Kuranda resident and strategic planner, said: “The most successful master plans preserve a location’s unique character, support diversity, and make connections between school buildings, social settings (including areas for play) and the environment.

“The long-term goal is to ensure that the school’s facilities are aligned with its educational, operational, sustainability, and growth requirements, and that the future needs of the Kuranda, Cairns and Tablelands communities are considered.”

The second of two master planning community engagement events is being held at the Cairns Hinterland Steiner School Hall this Friday (2 May) from 5.30pm-7.30pm. Further details are on the school website: www.chss.qld.edu.au

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

All aboard – but not all stops

By ANDREE STEPHENS

THE popular Savannahlander tourist rail trip has fired up for the first tour of the season but with its starting point now in Mareeba, instead of Cairns.

The change follows the closure of the rail between Kuranda and Mareeba after a bridge was damaged by heavy rains last year.

Queensland Rail Executive General Manager Regional Assets Wayne Prosser confirmed track inspections in December 2024 found “accelerated deterioration to timber rail bridges between Kuranda and Mareeba”.

“As such, this section was required to be closed until further remediation works can be undertaken to ensure safe operations for rail traffic,” he said.

It’s not the only track closure along the line, with the endpoint of the journey, Forsayth, missing out on train arrivals last year because of a deteriorating bridge, which is yet to be repaired. The train had stopped at Almaden and passengers had made a short bus trip to Forsayth.

Now the Almaden stop was also closed because of heavy rainfall and the tour could only go as far as Mount Surprise.

“It’s been a challenging time, but you’ve got to do what you can,” Savannahlander Operations Manager Mike Lee said. “We’re running right now. They’re at Mt Surprise today.

We’ve got a great group on.”

The company has created a special morning tea visit to Saltwater Creek at Mt Surprise for passengers, as it was too far to coach the passengers to Forsayth.

“It’s gone very well. There’s a lot of water around out there so it’s quite beautiful,” Mr Lee said.

However, he said it was “important

Mt Molloy blaze

we get back” to the closed stations as soon as possible as the businesses were “really suffering” without the regular visitors.

The QR’s Mr Prosser said works were being carried out at Almaden and it was hoped it would be open “within a few weeks”.

He said work on the KurandaMareeba line was expected to take about to take about six months, but a start date “has not been confirmed”.

It is understood a funding request was with the State Government.

Issues with the line date back to before Covid, when a major bridge upgrade was being undertaken.

However, the costs for the work escalated after Covid and the money ran out.

Mr Lee said he hoped the funding for the work was provided soon, as he suspected there was more maintenance going to be required, after two heavy wet seasons.

He said the impact on the Savannahlander trip was being felt, with single or independent bookings

KATTER

slowing up, but May, a busy month, was attracting strong bookings with group tours. “We are impressed with how supportive people are,” he said.

“We want this line to stay open, its worth keeping open as a tourism venture, as an historical attraction, and for those towns that rely on the train.

“We are very prepared to support this rail, and we have the support of the Gulf Development Corporation and local politicians.”

He said moving the trains from Cairns to Mareeba had been a “complex process”, but had succeeded with the assistance of the “fantastic” Mareeba QR maintenance team.

The trains are housed in an undisclosed location for security reasons.

The Savannahlander uses the Tablelands rail line (including the former Etheridge rail line), which was created in the late 1800s, firstly from Cairns to Mareeba, then further with branch lines from Mareeba

to Chillagoe and from Almaden to Einasleigh, then on to Charleston and Forsayth, to cater for the mining boom of the times.

By the 1990s the “Forsayth Mixed” rail usage was dwindling.

But support from tourists wanting to continue to take the historic journey ensured its future, and the carriages were sold privately.

It has been run by Cairns Kuranda Steam since 2004.

QR still owns the line and maintains it.

Passengers travelling on the Savannahlander during the period of the track closure will be transferred from Cairns to Mareeba for Wednesday departures, and from Mareeba to Cairns on Saturdays, for those returning on the Savannahlander.

Once the Cairns-Kuranda rail section is repaired, trips will resume normal departures from Cairns.

For more information visit https:// savannahlander.com.au/

INVESTIGATIONS are underway into what caused a fire at Mt Molloy on Wednesday afternoon which burned the town’s former butcher shop and adjoining house to the ground.

The fire started just before 5pm, with five crews sent to battle the blaze but the timber structure was unable to be saved.

A Queensland Fire Department spokesman said the building was well and truly ablaze when they arrived.

No one was in the building at the time.

The spokesperson said all house fires were fully investigated to determine the cause of the blaze.

An investigator was onsite on Thursday.

Images sought IMAGES reflecting natural disaster events, response efforts or community resilience can now enter the Tablelands Regional Council’s Disaster Photo Competition.

Photos need to reflect disaster events, response efforts, or community resilience and recovery.

“We’re keen to see the great photos the community has, and to use them to promote community preparedness, response, recovery and resilience to disasters,” Local Disaster Management Group Chair and Tablelands Mayor Rod Marti said.

Winners will receive a Disaster Emergency Kit valued at approximately $250, gift cards or first aid kits.

The competition is open to people 12-years and older, and each entrant can submit up to three entries.

Anyone wishing to enter the competition can upload their photos to www.trc.qld.gov.au/disaster-photocompetition until Monday 2 June, with the winners to be announced on Monday 30 June.

KATTER ADDRESSES COST OF LIVING FOOD + FUEL + ELECTRICITY

KENNEDY WISDOM. MONGREL. PATRIOT.

2025

FOOD PRICE REFORM DIVESTITURE

Immediate, mandatory and staged

100% CAP

on mark-ups and display of farm gate price

ENFORCEMENT OF PENALITIES

on supermarkets that do not comply.

REMOVAL

of onerous, costly regulations imposed on farmers

If you need assistance, please contact my office on 1300 301 942, Bob.Katter.MP@aph.gov.au or head to BobKatter.com.au www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

FUEL SELF-SUFFICIENCY

ELECTRICITY REFORM

Brazil uses sugarcane as its main fuel source. It is now one of the most advanced industrial countries in the world.

Your $3,500 a year electricity bill includes:

Brazil is filling up their cars for $1.10 a litre, and here we are filling up for $1.95 if we’re lucky.

In 1992, we were completely self-sufficient in fuel.

And now... Australia buys every litre of fuel from overseas.

$1,000 worth of electricity $1,200 of government charges $1,300 to “save the planet” This must change.

There is no justification for a bill more than $1,000 a year for the average-sized household.

These are massive savings for a government that does the right thing by its people.

Authorised by: B. Fusco for Katter’s Australian Par Party, 2/321 Sturt Street, Townsville, QLD 4810

The Express, Wednesday April 30 2025 PAGE 7

Do you know how to make your vote count?

Green ballot paper – number every box in the order of your choice LY

ON

AL USE

State Electoral Division of Division Name

It’s important that you understand how to vote correctly.

Number the boxes from 1 to 8 in the order of your choice

2 SURNAME, Given Names

On election day you need to complete two ballot papers: •

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House of Representatives Ballot Paper

OFF

Federal election, Saturday 3 May 2025

INDEPENDENT

3 SURNAME, Given Names PARTY

a green one for the House of Representatives

7 SURNAME, Given Names PARTY

•

a large white one for the Senate.

8 SURNAME, Given Names PARTY

1 SURNAME, Given Names

On the green ballot paper you are voting for a representative of your local area or electorate in the House of Representatives.

PARTY

5 SURNAME, Given Names PARTY

6 SURNAME, Given Names

On the white ballot paper you are voting for representatives of your state or territory in the Senate.

PARTY

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Don’t worry if you make a mistake.

Just ask for another ballot paper and start again.

S

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Remember... number every box to make your vote count

Sample ballot paper

White ballot paper – you can choose to vote either above or below the line

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Below the line By numbering at least 12 of these boxes in the order of your choice (with number 1 as your first choice).

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Your vote will help shape Australia. Practise voting at aec.gov.au To learn more

aec.gov.au 13 23 26

Authorised by the Electoral Commissioner, 10 Mort Street, Canberra PAGE 8 The Express, Wednesday April 30 2025

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

Kerbside concerns over weed, grass infestation COMPLAINTS about the deterioration of kerb and channel (K&C) in Mareeba’s suburban streets due to an infestation of weeds and grass have been met with advice from the shire council that homeowners are expected to maintain the assets.

While residents accept they must mow their verges even though it is not their property, a ratepayer has questioned why the council does not maintain the K&C in many of Mareeba’s suburban streets.

The ratepayer, who asked not to be identified, said the slow destruction of the K&C in many streets was being ignored by the council, but ratepayers would eventually have to pay to replace the asset.

She specifically pointed at Ceola Drive, where the K&C has been inundated with weeds and grass breaking up the concrete. The worst parts were behind the bollards installed by the council in June last year.

“We know we have to mow our verge, but I expected the council to maintain the kerb and channel and use poison to stop them breaking up even further,” she said.

“You can see this problem throughout Mareeba’s streets and, at its worst, it is preventing water draining away.

“Years ago, the council would regularly poison the K&C to keep weeds away and there was also some street

sweeping but I have lived in my property for two years and have never seen a street sweeper.”

But council says its streets are “typically swept every 4–6 months on a rotational program” and that there was a “general expectation that residents maintain the vegetation in front of their properties”.

“As most residents maintain these areas, council does not operate a routine herbicide spraying program for kerb and channel assets,” a council spokesperson said.

“Where the street sweeper cannot access, such as behind pedestrian islands, along unsealed road shoulders, or where weeds obstruct kerbs, cleaning is carried out manually and/or herbicide is applied on an as-needs basis, subject to available resources.

“Works are undertaken in the most cost-effective way possible, which may not always meet individual aesthetic preferences.”

Last week, a social media post by a resident showed a section of verge and K&C that had been poisoned by the council which drew comments of support and others of concern over the use of poison going down drains and into waterways.

Council also acknowledged replacing K&C was an expensive exercise.

“Kerb and channel repairs are undertaken where damage presents a safety or drainage risk,” the spokesperson said.

“Replacing long sections of kerb is particularly expensive due to the need to remove and reconstruct adjoining road and verge areas and is, therefore, limited to high-priority cases.

“In relation to Ceola Drive, council is aware of resident concerns, including street sweeper access.

“These matters have been communicated to the Department of Transport and Main Roads, which is finalising its report on the temporary pedestrian path pilot project.

“The report will be provided to council and shared with the community in due course.”

Kerb and channel along Ceola Drive is inundated with weeds, particularly behind the bollards.

Windfarm grants now on offer APPLICATIONS for Round 2 of the Mt Emerald Community Benefit Fund are open until the end of July after which the grants are awarded.

The fund was established in 2019 and has provided more than $1 million in grants to over 145 local organisations and individuals across the Atherton Tablelands.

Applications are accepted all year round and reviewed twice a year (post 31 January and 31 July) by a committee comprising local volunteers.

Grants are for not-for-profit organisations, communitybased clubs and associations, sporting clubs, community shows, cultural events, service clubs and individuals, who operate or live within a 50km radius of the Mt Emerald Wind Farm.

It is strongly recommended that applicants read the eligibility guidelines before applying.

Once the 31 July deadline has been reached, applications are collated, checked and passed to the Advisory Committee for their consideration and recommendations.

For more information or to apply, go to www. ratchaustralia.com/projects/ mtemerald#community For guidance on applications, email communityfund@ ratchaustralia.com

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www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

The Express, Wednesday April 30 2025 PAGE 9

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Parking spaces available for a $10,000 refundable bond. Casa Mia Living may modify or withdraw this offer anytime. Details accurate at publication but subject to change.

PAGE 10 The Express, Wednesday April 30 2025

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

One “ heart at a time

Davies Park lights on hold

There were so many beautiful stories, I knew something special was happening

KIDS at Kairi Primary School have joined a global campaign that aims to change the world, one heart at a time.

Last week, Grade 5-6 students at the school sat down to make as many hearts as they could to donate to a cancer wellbeing centre in Cairns so they can be given as a simple and kind gesture to those who need them most.

The initial is part of a global campaign that started in Tasmania by a woman known as Sarah who first started making and sharing the small hearts in 2015 when she was suffering severe anxiety and her marriage was in crisis.

“Once I had completed my first 1000 hearts, I sent packets of hearts to the 76 people who volunteered to share them in their communities. Very quickly, I started getting messages from people who received them, and was touched to realise the power of kindness in action,” Sarah says on her website, 1000 Hearts.

“People told me that

”

A PLANNED lighting upgrade to Field 2 of Davies Park has been put on hold until suitable funding is available, a Mareeba Shire Council meeting has been told.

The existing lighting is now below Australian Standards and too costly to maintain.

Davies Park is used by the Mareeba Rugby League Club, Mareeba State School and Mareeba Touch Football Association. Field 1 is currently being installed with new electrical systems and lighting after a $274,996 contract was awarded in November.

However, according to the capital works March report, Field 2 at the park is on hold, and will not be upgraded until further notice.

Final festival cash boost Kairi students Quinn Cannard (left) and Thor Andersen with All Woman Lingerie owner Noelene Mays at the heart-making session last week.

they carried my heart as a talisman of love, courage, hope and comfort. In many cases, people expressed that carrying a heart helped them to deal with anxiety, grief, depression and separation from loved ones.

“There were so many beautiful stories, I knew something special was happening.”

She set up the website in 2016 and since then, these acts of kindness have become known worldwide.

Last week, it was the turn

of the Kairi students to make their own hearts so they can be donated to COUCH (Cairns Organisation United for Cancer Health) which will then pass them onto patients and their family and friends.

Helping to organise the efforts of the students is Atherton’s All Woman Lingerie owner Noelene Mays who has had a special relationship with COUCH for the past two years, hosting clinics at the centre every month for women who are

dealing with breast cancer and want to be fitted with a breast prosthesis.

“We are the only ones that provide this service north of Townsville and many women can’t travel to Atherton for a fitting so we hold a clinic at COUCH every month at the moment to cater for those who can’t access us” she said.

“We know that COUCH has lost $1.4 million in Federal funding, so the Kairi school held a fundraiser last year and raised $4000 which

was donated to COUCH. “This year, we wanted to do something different and we heard about 1000 Hearts and decided that would be great for the kids, teaching them to think of others, and to be kind.”

All the students involved will keep a heart for themselves (“because you have to be kind to yourself as well”), while all the others will be given to COUCH. To find out more about 1000 Hearts, go to www.1000hearts.com.au

LOCAL events for the Cairns Italian Festival will receive a $1000 boost from the Mareeba Shire Council for the last time.

Provided under the Community Partnerships Program, the council agreed the cash donation to support the 2025 events in Mareeba would not be continued in the future.

Since 2022, the Cairns Italian Festival has hosted the Mareeba Salami and Sausage competition and from 2023, the council began providing cash sponsorship to help establish the event, which it said was now “well received” and selffunding.

The 2025 festival, from July 24 to August 3, will include the Salami and Sausage Fiesta, the BombenMoriconi Football Cup, and an Italian card game competition.

July 2 26 6tth h from 10 am to o 110 0p pm m at Fog ga arty yP Pa arrk k a Festa – Food & Wine La

Ita tal i th tthe TTro Tr rop opi pic ics cs Italy It ally y in hhee Tropics Experience E Ex xperi xp p ri r ence the Festa F sta at the Cairns Fe Cair irn ir rns Italian Italia i n Festival! ia F stiva Fe v l! va Join i us in u for f r a celebration fo celebra r tion of authentic Italian ra Italia i n food, ia f od, fo d live d, music, performances, music c cultural c, cultura cultu r l perfo ra f rm fo r ances, and fun f n activities fu activi v ties for vi f r all fo ages. It’s a vibrant vib vi i ra r nt day d y filled da fil fi illed with w th tradition, wi tra r dition, heritage, ra heri r tage, and ri community t spirit. ty spir iri ir rit. t Don’t miss D mis m i s out—come is out— t come and celebrate t— celebra r te with ra w th us! wi

Scan S can n the QR cod code de buy to o bu uy ttickets ic ckets ＠CairnsItalianFestival

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www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

The Express, Wednesday April 30 2025 PAGE 11

ADVERTISEMENT

It’s Time for the Tablelands, Gulf and Cape to Have a Real Say in Canberra

By Senator Susan McDonald As a proud North Queenslander, I’ve spent my life fighting for the industries and communities that make our region great — our graziers, growers, fishers, tradies, small business owners and the families that call the Tablelands, Gulf and Cape regions home.

Now more than ever, North West Queensland needs real representation — someone who can sit at the table with the decision-makers, not just yell from the back row.

take mining revenue and deliver it That’s why I’m asking you to vote 1 directly back to regional areas. for the LNP in Kennedy AND on the I’m also proud of our $600 million Senate ballot paper. A strong SenMining and Agriculture Roads Pro- ate team is the best way to ensure gram which will prioritise roads that your values, your industries, and take our valuable produce to mar- your way of life are protected. kets.

The Coalition will also support small and medium businesses to hire more apprentices with a $12,000 incentive. We’ll deliver cost-of-living relief by cutting fuel taxes and we will scrap Labor’s “ute tax”.

That’s why I’m proud to stand alongside the LNP Candidate for Kennedy, Annette Swaine — a hardworking, no-nonsense North Queenslander who knows this region, understands its challenges, and is ready to fight for its future.

We’ll increase the Instant Asset Write-Off to $30,000 and make it permanent so businesses and farms can invest in their future. And we say no to unfair taxes on superannuation which will force farmers to sell their properties — something Under a Dutton-led Coalition Gov- Labor refuses to rule out. ernment, we’ll back the people who But electing Annette alone isn’t keep our economy moving. enough. In the Senate, we need

The Coalition has a plan to pay for Australia’s future. Australia is a primary industries nation and our pro-mining and agriculture policies will mean we can set off on a road to prosperity and turn back from the path to poverty that Labor has set As your Senator, I’ve fought to bring us on. common sense back into policy — opposing bans that hurt our cattle We can keep the dream alive for the next generation — that your kids producers, pushing for more investand grandkids can grow up here, ment in regional roads and dams, build a career, buy a home, and opposing harmful green laws that raise their families in the towns we impact primary producers, and de- love. fending our fishing industry from But we can’t do it without your help. overreach.

With a stronger Senate presence and a Coalition Government advised by people like Annette and myself, we can do so much more.

Working as a team with the LNP State Government, we can deliver transformational projects that create long-term jobs and opportunity I’m especially proud of our recent- strong LNP voices to stand guard — infrastructure that puts us at the ly-announced $20 billion Region- — to block bad laws and champi- forefront of Queensland’s economic al Australia Future Fund which will on the needs of North Queensland. future.

At this election, let’s send a message that Kennedy deserves better — that we’re ready for real representation, real investment, and real results.

VOTE 1 Annette Swaine for Kennedy.

VOTE 1 LNP in the Senate.

Together, we can give Kennedy the future it deserves.

VOTE 1 LNP ON BOTH BALLOT PAPERS

Susan McDONALD SENATOR FOR QUEENSLAND

Annette SWAINE LNP FOR KENNEDY

A $20 billion Regional Australia Future Fund A $600 million Mining & Ag Roads Program A Boost primary industries A Abolish Labor’s “ute tax” A Halve the fuel tax A No change to Australia Day A Lower taxes A: 520 Flinders St, Townsville QLD 4810 P: 4771 3066 E: senator.mcdonald@aph.gov.au W: susanmcdonald.com.au F: SusanMcDonaldQLD Authorised by B Riley, LNP, 281 Sandgate Road, Albion QLD 4010.

PAGE 12 The Express, Wednesday April 30 2025

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

Youth energy behind new artworks YOUNG people across the Tablelands have come together to create three vibrant community art installations in Atherton and Malanda through the Tablelands Youth Energy initiative.

Delivered by VPG in partnership with Tablelands Regional Council, Better Together, and ECHO, funded by the Alcohol and Drug Foundation, the communitydriven initiative has fostered positive youth connections and brought new life to public spaces.

Through workshops led by artist and youth mentor Daniel “Wally” Wallwork, young people worked together to

TRC Deputy Mayor Dave Bilney and VPG’s Sarah Marsh with local youth behind Malanda’s new community art.

turn blank walls into colourful expressions of community pride and youth voice.

“The art projects have brought new energy to our community spaces,” VPG’s service coordinator Sarah Marsh said.

“It’s been fantastic to see the confidence grow in the young people involved. They’ve made new friends, connected with local supports, and developed a real sense of ownership and pride in their community.”

Art installations now proudly stand at the ECHO and Better Together community hubs, with the final installation adding a splash of colour to Eacham Memorial Gates Park

in Malanda.

Deputy Mayor Dave Bilney has backed the initiative, supporting council’s priority for youth participation and development.

“This project is a great example of how we can work with young people to build a stronger sense of ownership in their community,” he said.

“It delivers on council’s youth priorities of participation and belonging and we’re proud to back locally-led solutions like this that make a positive impact across the Tablelands.”

The art projects built on the momentum of earlier skateboarding sessions at Atherton Skate Park, led

by Groms Skate Coaching.

These sessions saw strong participation from local youth and were met with positive feedback from families and the wider community.

“When young people have access to opportunities and supports that matter to them, we see an impact in their wellbeing,” Ms Marsh said.

“These opportunities have given youth a positive outlet and a sense of purpose. It makes a difference in how they view themselves and their place in our community.”

Art installations can now be viewed at ECHO, Better Together, and Eacham Memorial Gates Park in Malanda.

Input sought on CBD revamp The group will include representatives from the Mareeba Chamber of Commerce, a disability advocacy organisation, the trucking industry, Traditional Owners and local tourism operators.

CBD business operators, property owners and residents, and the general community are invited to nominate to be part of the group by 12pm on 12 May. Mareeba Shire Mayor Angela Toppin is encouraging the community to be involved in the “generational project”.

“Project Blueprint begins with solving the stormwater drainage issues and concludes with plans for an attractive, safe space the community wants to spend time in,” she said.

Mareeba Chamber of Commerce is a sub-partner on the project and has long advocated for a revitalised CBD. President Joe Moro is looking forward to the planning project.

“Together with council and the other stakeholders we will create a CBD that encourages people to visit, to shop and to stay longer,” he said.

To nominate for the Blueprint stakeholder reference group, visit council’s website.

MEMBERS of the community, CBD property owners, business operators and residents are invited to nominate for the Project Blueprint stakeholder reference group.

The blueprint, which is funded to the tune of $2.1 million through the Australian Government’s Regional Precincts and Partnerships Program, will allow the council to undertake a once-in-a-generation project to revitalise Mareeba’s CBD. The project will deliver a construction-ready precinct plan to invigorate and future-proof the CBD between Herberton Street and Lloyd Street and between Constance Street and Railway Avenue.

The precinct plan will improve pedestrian accessibility, stormwater drainage and the general amenities in Mareeba’s main shopping area.

Council wants to ensure Project Blueprint meets the needs and aspirations of the community, announcing the formation of a stakeholder reference group.

The group will meet to provide information, advice and recommendations on the development of the precinct plan and to help identify opportunities.

HOW TO VOTE LABOR

SHARON WINN LABOR FOR KENNEDY

House of Representatives

STEP 1

Start here and you must number every box.

(Small green ballot paper)

You must number every box.

Electoral division of

KENNEDY

STEP 2 The Senate

Place a number 1 in box J. Then number the boxes as shown below.

VOTE LABOR

4

SWAINE, A

7

CLARE, S

2

STANFORD, C

5

LUSH, D

8

HARRIS, K

1

WINN, Sharon

6

WESTCOTT, M

3

KATTER, B

AUSTRALIAN LABOR PARTY

J F

H

5

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1 AUSTRALIAN LABOR PARTY

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3

2

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The Express, Wednesday April 30 2025 PAGE 13

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au Kennedy_HTV_ad.indd 1

15/4/2025 2:54 PM

Our Council Our Community Program & Project Update

Disaster Photo Competition

Council Meeting

We’ll be working on these projects and programs in May (weather and resources permitting): • Priors Creek Parklands in Atherton.

• Testing of the new water treatment plant in Ravenshoe.

• New reservoir in Malanda.

• Replacement of damaged picnic shelter at Malanda Falls.

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

• Renewal of a section of Wongabel Road, Wongabel.

• Solar panel installation on TRC buildings.

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

Submit your disaster-related photos and win!

Photos need to reflect disaster events, response efforts, or community resilience and recovery in the Tablelands Region. Winners will receive a Disaster Emergency Kit valued at approximately $250, gift cards or first aid kits. Upload your photos to trc.qld.gov.au/disaster-photos by Monday 2 June

The next ordinary Council meeting will be at 9am Thursday 22 May in the Coordination Centre, 15 Vernon Street, Atherton. The meeting is open to the public, and will be live streamed and recorded. See trc.qld.gov.au/meetings and our socials and for agendas, minutes, recordings and live stream links.

Tender Tender T-TRC2025-10 for hydrogeological investigations west and northwest of Tolga and Tender T-TRC2025-02 for the register of prequalified suppliers for vacuum truck operations are open until 11am Friday 2 May 2025. Find out more and lodge your submission at trc.qld.gov.au/tenders.

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.

Free Rural Active Women Program We are extending our free Rural Active Women program following the success of previous sessions. The program aims to boost physical activity levels and wellbeing for older women and encourage ongoing healthy habits and behaviour. Activities are inclusive of all abilities, backgrounds, experience levels and health conditions. Women aged 50+ can register for sessions at the Millaa Millaa RSL at 10–11am Thursdays 8 and 15 May. Register at trc.qld.gov.au/rural-active-program until Monday 5 May.

Supported by the Queensland Government’s Get Ready Queensland program. For more information, visit getready.qld.gov.au.

Free Digital Skills for Older Tablelanders We are providing free Building Digital Skills for Older Australians workshops that build confidence with technology and provide assistance with digital devices. The workshops are interactive and hands-on, and will include practical discussions and activities. Bring your devices or use one of ours. The remaining workshops are: • Atherton Library — 11am–1pm Friday 16 May. • Mount Garnet Town Hall — 11am–1pm Thursday 26 June.

• Ravenshoe Library — 11am–1pm Friday 6 June.

Book by calling 4089 2247 or at trc.spydus.com.

Join the

Conversation

We want to know how you use the Atherton Off-leash Dog Park, if you’ve encountered any problems and your thoughts on a dividing fence.

Join the conversation until Sunday 18 May.

These workshops are delivered as a partnership between the State Library of Queensland and The Good Things Foundation Australia.

Free Microchipping Day for Cats & Dogs & free first-time registration for dogs 9am–12noon and 1–4pm Thursday 1 May TRC Animal Management Facility 30 Albrecht Street, Tolga

TABLELAND REGIONAL GALLERY Silent Conversations: Walking Among the Trees

By Rose Watts.

On display until Saturday 14 June.

FOYER GALLERY Local People: The Second Series

By Songriver Photography Group.

On display until Friday 30 May.

2025 Tablelands Business Excellence Awards

OLD POST OFFICE GALLERY IMicro/Macro

By Tablelands Region Art Society.

On display Tuesday 6 May to Saturday 21 June.

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

PAGE 14 The Express, Wednesday April 30 2025

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

Students to show shopping skills

A wheely good night awaits

THE state’s students are being urged to get creative about trading and shopping issues and take part in the annual Buy Smart competition for a chance to win a share in $15,000.

Run by the Office of Fair Trading the competition helps prepare students in Years 4 to 12 to navigate marketplace regulatory issues and use their consumer rights.

Students are challenged to make a creative project that explains and addresses an important consumer issue of their choice.

Attorney-General Deb Frecklington said the competition helps set Queensland’s youngest consumers up for financial success.

“It is crucial for young people to have opportunities

to develop the skills to recognise and avoid scams and improve their financial capability.

Students have created innovative board games, music videos, TV shows and, in recent years, focused on the online space.

“Young people are often not exposed to online shopping or cashless payments until they begin spending themselves, which can make it difficult to develop the skills to navigate the rapidly evolving and complex digital marketplace,” she said.

Entries are now open and will close on 19 September 2025, with winners to be announced at Parliament House later this year.

For more information, visit qld.gov.au/law/fairtrading/buy-smart-competition

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Bodie Bloore is hosting a trivia fundraising event at the National Hotel, Mt Molloy this Friday night, despite recently suffering another seizure that dislocated both his shoulders.

THE young Mt Molloy local running solo in the Great Wheelbarrow Race is holding a trivia fundraising event this Friday and is encouraging locals to get in on the action.

Bodie Bloore announced his campaign to run the Wheelbarrow Race solo for the Epilepsy Foundation earlier in the year and has already surpassed his fundraising goal of $3,000.

Bloore also suffered another seizure recently in which both his shoulders were dislocated.

However, he is determined to continue his training for the 140km event and further smash his fundraising goal.

He is encouraging others to join in for a fun-filled night of trivia, laughs and fundraising, all in support of the Epilepsy Foundation.

The night will feature a range of trivia questions, a purple dress theme with a prize for the best dressed, a professional photo booth by Sunbeam and Sage Sets, and a silent auction.

The event will take place this

Friday from 6pm at the National Hotel (Mt Molloy Pub). There is a $10 cost per person with teams of up to five allowed.

All proceeds from the event will be added to the funds that Bodie will donate to the Epilepsy Foundation.

To donate to Bodie’s campaign online, visit fundraising.epilepsyfoundation. org.au/fundraisers/bodiebloore.

The Great Wheelbarrow Race is on 9-11 May, kicking off with a parade along Byrnes Street on Friday Morning.

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ON LAND the

Urea supplies in ‘fragile’ state GLOBAL urea supplies currently sit in a fragile state, with several key suppliers exporting lower volumes yearon-year, which creates a “ripple effect” for available volumes for Australian fertiliser importers, Rabobank says in a newlyreleased report.

The agribusiness banking specialist says urea is by far the most widely-traded fertiliser in the world and, for Australia, represented nearly half (46%) of total fertiliser imports in 2024.

In the report, the bank’s RaboResearch division says due to minimal volumes of urea produced domestically, Australia is particularly sensitive to global events.

Report author, RaboResearch farm inputs and commodities analyst Paul Joules, said the urea market was expected to remain volatile due to complex supply chains and geopolitical influences, with prices elevated compared to historical averages.

“Ongoing supply issues in key exporting regions and the sensitive nature of natural gas markets – the predominant feedstock for urea production – suggest that urea prices will likely stay high,” he said.

Mr Joules said given complex supply chains, urea prices tended to trade with considerable volatility.

“At present, prices are trading around the five-year average. However, if we were to compare current prices with the pre-Russia-Ukraine war fiveyear average price, they are 40% higher,” he said.

Mr Joules said in addition to geopolitical issues impacting fertiliser prices and availability, natural gas was the other key influence within the market.

“The sensitivity of natural gas markets – to both weather and geopolitical events – adds to the volatility of urea prices,” he said.

The RaboResearch report said while the majority of the chief urea-producing regions and countries (Europe, Iran, Egypt and China) that are experiencing supply issues did not directly supply Australia, “they still account for global losses to the supply, which creates a ripple effect for available volumes for Australian importers”.

In 2024, 79% of Australian urea imports came from the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Indonesia and Oman.

Cattle producers outline priorities CATTLE Australia (CA) has put the major parties on notice that the support of Australia’s grass-fed cattle producers at the upcoming Federal election hinges on six key issues.

CA is the national peak body for the grass-fed beef industry, providing a unified voice advocating on behalf of Australia’s 52,000 grass-fed cattle levy payers.

CA chief executive Dr Chris Parker said its policy positions were designed to ensure the long-term sustainability of cattle producers, their communities and the environment.

“The future of our industry and our communities hinges on policy change in the areas of trade carbon markets, environmental management and protecting our consumers’ rights,” he said.

“The red meat supply chain employs more than 430,000 people domestically, meaning it is vital for rural and metropolitan voters alike to get behind good policy that supports the beef industry in nourishing communities, both here and overseas, and the contribution it makes to the wellbeing of the regional areas of Australia.”

As the industry’s peak body, CA is responsible for developing and driving contemporary policy; guiding research, development, and adoption (RD&A) and marketing investment for the sector; and advocating on all matters important to the Australian beef industry.

CA is calling on the major parties to: • enact truth in labelling laws that protect consumers from plant and cell-grown protein sources being described as meat and invest to educate consumers on the nutritional value of beef • include the biogenic methane cycle in national carbon accounting systems, reevaluate the legislation of mandatory climate-related financial disclosures, scope the reporting of indirect emissions, and invest $150 million in research on the role ruminants play to improve environmental outcomes • guarantee the future of the live cattle export trade to secure the livelihoods of Australian producers and their communities, and improve food security in the region through the reinstatement of the Indonesia Australia Red Meat and Cattle Partnership

• deliver an accurate and up-to-date national dataset based on satellite mapping to demonstrate to consumers and trading partners the nature-positive role of agriculture to land use and biodiversity, and advocate at international stage to accept equivalency of the Australian vegetation laws • acknowledge Buffel Grass as a vital contributor to the economic viability and sustainable profitability of regional and rural Australia, and • match the Coalition commitment to a sustainable funding model to support effective biosecurity, traceability and industry system, including user-pays charges on importers.

“Australian beef producers are essential to the fabric of our nation,” Dr Parker said.

“They are the most carbon-efficient producers of beef in the world, and last year they exported 1.97 million tonnes of beef to feed people all around the world.

“We call on all political parties to recognise their critical role and back these policy priorities to ensure they can continue to contribute positively to the economy, environment and food security.”

Costa supports local schools TWO local primary schools will be joining a Kitchen Garden Program this year for the first time as a result of the Costa Group’s new partnership with the Stephanie Alexander Kitchen Garden Foundation.

Atherton and Mareeba state schools are among 10 nationwide to join the program which empowers children and young people to develop lifelong skills in growing, harvesting, preparing and sharing fresh, seasonal food.

The 10 schools are all located in areas where Costa have farms to foster connections between education, agriculture, our

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workforce and the community.

The first 10 schools are the first to receive support through the Costa three-year partnership, which will eventually see a total of 30 schools or early childhood services welcomed into the kitchen garden community across Australia.

“We know that an effective way to do this is through educating children about the benefits of eating a balanced and nutritional diet, which includes regular serves of fresh fruit and vegetables, and we are delighted to be teaming up with the foundation to support schools in our local communities,” Costa chief executive

officer Marc Werner said.

“Providing hands on gardening and cooking experiences will not only help develop an understanding of plants and nutrition but also provide a safe calming space to nurture student wellbeing.”

Each sponsored site will receive a twoyear membership to the Kitchen Garden Program.

An infrastructure grant has also been provided to support their kitchen garden activities. This could go towards repairing or building garden beds, purchasing new cooking equipment or adding a compost system or irrigation.

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www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

ANZAC DAY

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Atherton, Malanda, Mareeba, Mt Molloy, Yungaburra

The Express, Wednesday April 30 2025 PAGE 17

PROPERTY

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

Live above it all at the Rise Country Estate

IMAGINE waking up every day to panoramic views, fresh country air, and wide open space. At The Rise Country Estate, that dream becomes your reality. Positioned along Catherine-Atherton Drive in Mareeba, this exclusive hilltop development offers spacious one-acre blocks with stunning

elevated outlooks – the perfect setting to build your forever home and embrace a relaxed lifestyle.

Whether you’re upsizing, building your dream home, or investing in your future, The Rise offers the perfect blend of natural beauty, privacy, and modern convenience.

Features include: • Elevated one-acre lots with breathtaking views • Town water supply • Underground power • NBN ready for fast connectivity • Fully sealed roads for easy access Just minutes from Mareeba’s

town centre, schools, shops, and amenities, The Rise Country Estate combines peaceful rural living with everyday convenience.

With only two premium blocks remaining, this is your chance to secure one of the best views in Mareeba.

Call Ryley on 0409 321 000 for

any information or to arrange an onsite inspection at a time that suits you.

Follow us on our socials or check out our website www. amarooestate.com.au for all updates regarding our upcoming stages.

Thriving Fashion Boutique in Atherton

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84 Main Street, Atherton QLD. 4883

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

THIS is your opportunity to take over one of the longestrunning fashion boutiques on the Atherton Tablelands!

Recently rebranded as Sassi Lass Boutique in 2024 to give it a fresh approach, and formerly known as Los Colores, this beloved store has been providing the women of the Tablelands with beautiful clothing and accessories for over 36 years.

Offered for sale due to a change in circumstances, this WIWO (Walk In, Walk Out) business is available at a price that simply covers stock and equipment-an incredible opportunity for the right buyer.

Sassi Lass Boutique holds exclusive rights to sought-after fashion brands and specializes

in casualwear, dresses, and accessories, including shoes, sunglasses, hats, and jewellery.

Ideally positioned in the heart of Atherton’s Main Street, the boutique enjoys high exposure and strong foot traffic. The premises is light and airy, featuring a modern façade, air-conditioning, 3 spacious change rooms, a tea room, ample storage, and bathroom facilities on the lower level. Additionally, dual street access via Railway Lane ensures convenient deliveries and staff parking.

For more information, qualified buyers are invited to contact exclusive Elders agent Michelle Raso.

Address: Price: Agent: Contact:

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Specialising in Farm and Business Packages Call Gail Barton today 4037 7848  Elders Insurance Tablelands Zoners Pty Ltd ABN 59097345474 trading as Elders Insurance Tablelands AR No. 254599 is an Authorised Representative of Elders Insurance (Underwriting Agency) Pty Limited ABN 56 138 879 026, AFSL 340965. (EIUA) . EIUA, acting under its own AFSL, is authorised to distribute Elders Insurance products on behalf of QBE Insurance (Australia) Limited (ABN 78 003 191 035, AFSL 239545), the product issuer. Visit www.eldersinsurance.com.au to consider the Product Disclosure Statement and any applicable Target Market Determination to decide if the product is right for you.

PAGE 18 The Express, Wednesday April 30 2025

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PROPERTY

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Large block with a shed THIS property is perfect for a weekend escape or a permanent residence offering low-maintenance living that lets you fully enjoy all that Yungaburra has to offer.

Constructed with durable masonry blocks, the home includes two bedrooms 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 features a central kitchen

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 Address: Price: Agent: Contact:

3.4m x 6m lean-to—ideal for storing your caravan or boat.

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

29 Park Avenue, YUNGABURRA Offers over $690,000 EXCLUSIVE to Raquel Cunzolo Sommerset Realty 0408 983 879

Sensational family living

THIS stylish family home is positioned on a generous 989m2 allotment conveniently located only 5 minutes from Mareeba town centre.

The generous, functional floorplan offers adaptable living and exceptional entertaining options.

Incorporating 4 bedrooms, an open study, 2 bathrooms, a sizeable central kitchen, main living area and a closable media room / 2nd living area there’s something to accommodate every member of the family.

Quality features include: • Fully split system airconditioned • Tiled living areas + carpeted bedrooms • Generous bedrooms with mirrored built-in robes,

master bedroom with ensuite & WIR • Separate closable media room/2nd living area with patio access • Open study • Sizeable central kitchen with loads of bench & cupboard space, new oven, easy access from the garage plus a dishwasher • Generous patio directly off the living area • Laundry with built-in storage cupboard + hallway storage Address: Price: Agent: Contact:

cupboards • Security screens on all doors + blinds throughout • Fully fenced 989m2 allotment with generous yard area & side access Why build when you can move right in, with everything you want and so much more.

It’s a must to inspect.

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

16 Eli Close, MAREEBA Offers over $620,000 EXCLUSIVE to Joe Torrisi Joe Torrisi Real Estate 0417 700 468

A family size surprise

HERE you can make your life that little better with this family friendly home. This high set home has 3 bedrooms all with built-in wardrobes, ceiling fans and the bathroom has an easy access shower.

For outdoor living there is a timber decked verandah, the ideal space for entertaining.

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is ideal for the growing family.

You will have peace of mind watching your children walk safely to and from school.

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

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

subtle, but now realising his youth, he may be just ignorant of the term.

I suggest he could start his own periodical, perhaps, “The Herberton Chronic”, which could keep him more suitably busy as opposed his insulting whinging and whining and attempts to ridicule others.

Mark should also be aware that elder abuse is no longer in vogue, but then that would presuppose, awareness, respect, knowledge, commonsense and wisdom, all of which are traits shared by most senior gentlemen or “TOMs”.

Stan Thornton MAREEBA

By-election a farce

IT’S over. It’s finished. It’s done.

It’s dusted.

Mareeba Shire Council’s Clayton’s by-election (the election, you have when you don’t really need an election) has been declared with the original voted incumbent, Mladen Bosnic, now sworn in to serve the remaining three years or so of the current term.

Despite the attempted “statesmanesque uttering” from the Mayor referring to the unnecessary cost of the by-election as “that is the price of democracy “, perhaps what now can be revealed is the “actual unnecessary cost to ratepayers” for they are the people who will be footing the $150,000 plus bill and absolute waste of MSC rates and finances.

Surely the waste of money could have been used for far better ends than serving the whims of councillors who obviously see themselves as some form of infallible modern day “Templar Knights” who just don’t make miscalculations or errors.

Now that the mandatory “happy snaps” of the new look Mareeba Shire Council have been taken and distributed hither and yon, perhaps it is time that a couple of important Mareeba Shire Council actions are undertaken namely: a) How about the five remaining councillors and Mayor publicly reveal their real reasons for proceeding with this costly farce (remember four voted for the election, the other merely abstained). Surely, under the costly circumstances, that would be the honourable, accountable and responsible thing to do; b) How about the Mareeba Shire Council, as a whole, consider more accountable, productive and beneficial ways to spend, not waste, council revenues and reserves for greater community benefit; c) How about Mareeba Shire Councillors refraining from wasting grant money on thought bubbles, like the unnecessary Ceola Drive bollards and direct them to needed and necessary projects instead; d) How about Mareeba Shire Councillors provide ratepayers and residents with more informed,

communicated, accountable and focused decision making in the future.

Perhaps the outcome of this costly and unnecessary by-election confirms that many more people across Mareeba Shire place far more value in observing good old-fashioned principles than others might have thought.

Denis McKinley, Bob Neate,

Barry Simpson

MAREEBA

Let’s not resort to name calling

MARK Parsons (Letters 16/04/25) is obviously frustrated that The Express will not shut down debate on climate change when it opposes his view, so needs to resort to name calling.

Maybe he could call those opposing his view the ITS (Independent Thinkers) and the ITS can call Mark and his ilk the Lemmings. Sadly, the Lemmings seem to have bred faster over the last four decades than they follow the Pied Piper into the sea.

Perhaps Mark could provide some facts and figures, not shout an excited “got-you”, over a court case. Courts are not the arbitrators of science.

Bruce Jones

MAREEBA

Paper is more than just letters

ABOUT a year ago Mark Parsons wrote a demeaning article about The Express. Then on 16 April, he accused The Express of being one of many “struggling regional newspapers” but at least one that provides a platform for “TOMs” (Tired Old Men).

What I don’t understand is that if he doesn’t like our local paper, then why bother reading it, let alone having the hypocrisy to criticise it.

The Express consists of a lot more than just Letters to the Editor.

Previously, I suggested that a man of such pretentious pomposity would be more suited to a hyphenated surname to help with his self promotion. The name Mr Mark Parsons-Nose had, I thought, a nice ring to it.

At the time I thought I was being

Download for FREE from iTunes or Google Play PAGE 20 The Express, Wednesday April 30 2025

Hold all politicians to account

POLITICIANS do not deal in facts at election time, it is all about feelings, illusions and the lies told to achieve the feelings.

If we were to assess the governing party on the facts of past performance the same way we do with most parts of our lives, we would not re-elect this Labor Government.

This government for the past three years has traded in myths of cheap power, while power gets dearer, budget surpluses while we Australia further into debt and a housing shortage fuelled by international immigration.

We have had a three-year sentence of “Hard Labor” and a third of voters thinks we need another three years, a third want the Coalition for the next three years, and the other third are undecided.

We have been lied to along ideological fantasy of cheap power run the most inefficient way of wind and sun through the most expensive distribution system and all for no reason at all. We need the most efficient and cheapest power to prosper as a society and that will come from coal and gas.

Without gas, oil and coal there is no manufacturing of product for clean, green power. That’s why China has fossil fuels to produce the products to produce green power machines to sell to dumb Australian Governments.

The Australian voters are being asked to prolong this crazy political ideal along with other fantasies such as everyone driving an electric car, fuelling the economy with immigrants and the list goes on.

Politicians override the facts of any argument with emotive dialogue to the point of lying and it’s all the lies that I can’t stand. Even when it would serve him better, Albo lies about the fact he fell off stage and was filmed doing it, only to deny it ever happened.

If you have to lie about the facts that everybody knows and can see, what hope do we have on what we can’t see?

Vote one for the least damaging politician to you the individual because the politician who does the best for you does not exist. After selfinterest the elected representatives server the Australian people, but we

come a long second and any good is by accident.

Until we care about the treatment we receive as an entire voting population and hold all politicians to account we will get the rough end of the pineapple.

Vote one for more Hard Labor and sit on the rough end but I have had enough of this Scam.

Richard Holme EDMONTON

Climate alarmists continue to carry on

WHAT is the collective term for a group of climate-alarm grifters? A sponge? A drain? Myself, I think a mafia of climate alarmists fits best because that’s how they behave as they extort the wealth and vitality out of our economy.

Poor Mark Parsons (Letters 16/04/25) – he’s so trapped in the 1990s that he thinks Google is a reliable source of information. It’s not; it’s the most left-biased search engine by far. It’s owner, Alphabet Inc., is the heavyweight in pushing the woke, rainbow, DEI, anti-white agenda.

If poor Mark had used Grok as his search engine instead of Google, he’d know that he quoted stale news about climate alarmist Michael Mann. The courts reduced Mann’s $1,000,000 defamation payout to $5000 and he was ordered to pay $500,000 of legal fees his opponent incurred in the case.

Mann is infamous for “the hockey stick graph”, where he unscientifically spliced two different temperature records together to “prove” global warming was happening. One was a tree-ring proxy record, a largely discredited method, that showed cooler weather in the past. The other was a modern temperature record which had been biased upwards by his fellow activists.

When it comes to the originality of the participants in the climate debate here, the contributors Mark smears as “deniers” have supplied detailed scientific explanations that disprove the alarmists’ core claim that CO2 can trap heat and overheat the atmosphere and shown they understand the subject at a deep level.

The alarmists resort to insults, logical fallacies such as Mark’s appeal to authority, and repeated assertions of unsupportable claims that have failed the test of time.

In my view, the “tired old men” are the alarmists who still carry on with these discredited claims despite no sea level rise, no increase in extreme weather, no mass deaths, and no anything else they’ve been claiming was imminent since the 1970s.

They’re boring old Marxists, “BOMs”, who should know better by now.

Jennifer Short EDGE HILL

MINUTE

Help yourself by helping others

WE often think of volunteering as a way to give back to the community – and it is. But did you know that helping others can also do you a world of good?

Psychologists have long studied the benefits of volunteering, and the results are clear: volunteering is good for your mental and emotional health.

When you give your time and energy to help someone else, your brain releases feel-good chemicals like dopamine and oxytocin. These are the same chemicals that boost your mood, reduce stress and even help you feel more connected to others.

Volunteering is linked to enhanced life satisfaction, happiness, self-esteem, and perceived mental health. It can contribute to psychological and social well-being, reducing stress and creating meaningful social roles, which correlate with decreased psychological distress.

The mental health benefits of volunteering can be particularly helpful for older adults, individuals with lower life satisfaction, unemployed people and those with chronic health conditions.

It may also offer distinct advantages for people with disabilities and those experiencing mental ill-health.

For many, especially those going through major life transitions, volunteering can offer a renewed sense of purpose. It’s easy to feel adrift after retirement, the loss of a partner or moving to a new place.

But volunteering can give your day structure and meaning. It reminds you that you still have so much to give – and that your presence matters.

Research indicates that the specific type of volunteering activity does not significantly influence mental health outcomes. Benefits are consistent across various sectors and roles.

Another bonus?

Social connection.

Loneliness and isolation are known risk factors for depression and anxiety, particularly as we get older. Volunteering regularly introduces you to people with shared interests and often leads to genuine friendships.

Whether you’re planting trees, serving meals or mentoring a young person, you become part of something bigger than yourself.

Volunteering is not just about the big gestures. Even small acts of kindness – like checking in on a neighbour or helping at a local event – can lift your spirits and improve your wellbeing.

May 19-25 is National Volunteer Week, which raises awareness of the benefits of volunteering but also celebrates the amazing work that Volunteers do every week.

Not only do volunteers experience the mental health benefit of volunteering, but they are also integral to Australia’s mental health workforce, providing essential services and support.

Help yourself by helping others. You’ll not only make someone else’s day a little brighter, but you might just brighten your own. To find local volunteering opportunities, you can contact any community organisation and ask if they have any volunteering opportunities or visit www.fnqvolunteers.org.au and have a look at their database in the areas that interest you.

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

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The Express, Wednesday April 30 2025 PAGE 23

EXPRESS O Wednesday 30th 28° 19°

Thursday 1st 28° 17°

Time m 0445 1.32 1017 2.23 1641 0.67 2345 2.96

Friday 2nd 28° 17°

Time m 0600 1.54 1115 1.92 1733 0.93

QUOTE OF THE WEEK...

“Just one small positive thought in the morning can change your whole day.”

– Dalai Lama

Saturday 3rd 29° 19°

Time m 0106 2.80 0858 1.54 1257 1.70 1853 1.17

Sunday 4th 26° 18°

Time m 0249 2.75 1052 1.37 1524 1.74 2045 1.28

Time m 0408 2.77 1130 1.23 1645 1.91 2209 1.27

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

Colour-blind

Greeting

Reproduction

Thesis

Ambiguity

Consumer

Interactive

Scramble

Torture

Behaviour

Corner

Mouse

Selection

Tropical

Block

Design

Operation

Social

Underline

Cabinet

Dividend

Payment

Sting

Wheel

Claim

Dominate

Persist

Study

Widen

Clinic

Drain

Photograph

Symptom

Wilderness

Coalition

Foundation

Related

Temptation

1

HARD

3

6 9

9 3 5 3 1 6 5 7 7 9 6 8 6 3 3 8 1 2 6 7 9 1 2 8

7

1 6 9 7

2 5 8 9 6 7 1 3 4

4 6 7 3 1 5 8 9 2

4

6

7

8

defeat each other. (6,2,4) 23. The characteristic grunting sound of a pig. (4) 24. Intense brightness of light. (10) 25. A Muslim (usually Arab) military commander or local chief. (4) 26. A concise saying or maxim; an aphorism. (10)

14 16

18

19

20 21 23

24

25

26

22

ACROSS: 1. A thief who enters a building by climbing to an upper storey. (3,7) 6. Informal “Goodbye” (2-2) 9 a bed with a post at each corner supporting a canopy.

(4-6) 10. Expressing surprise, frustration, or dismay. (4) 12. Relating to a system of government that is centralized and dictatorial and requires complete subservience to the state. (12) 15. A view or judgement formed about something, not necessarily based on fact or knowledge. (7) 16. Produce or provide (a natural, agricultural, or industrial product). (7) 17. (of a person) control the functioning of (a machine, process, or system). (7) 19. The volume of coinage in circulation (7) 20. The situation in which two people or two groups use their intelligence and ability to think quickly to try to

DOWN: 1. The end part of a sleeve, where the material of the sleeve is turned back or a separate band is sewn on. (4) 2. A violent, aggressive person, especially one who is a criminal. (4) 3. (of a business or activity) not yielding profit or financial gain. (12) 4. A large pipe that carries gas for heating and cooking from one place to another, to which a house can be connected (3,4) 5. A desirable or useful feature or facility of a building or place. (7) 7. A member of one of the indigenous peoples of the Americas (used chiefly in anthropological and linguistic contexts). (10) 8. A popular low-carbohydrate eating plan developed in the 1960s (6,4) 11. A mountainous region and national park in Cumbria, North West England. (4,8) 13. Risk everything in an all-out effort. (2,3,5) 14. A person who cultivates an area of interest, such as the arts, without real commitment or knowledge. (10) 18. An activity done in order to increase one’s sense of self-importance. (3,4) 19. A European primula with clusters of drooping fragrant yellow flowers in spring, growing on dry grassy banks and in pasture. (7) 21. The joint between the thigh and the lower leg in humans. (4) 22. A long, sturdy piece of squared timber or metal used to support the roof or floor of a building. (4)

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

Try to be precise in your communications. This will not be the best day for communication or travel. Put your money into a safe place that will ensure a profit if you let it sit long enough. You can take advantage of opportunities if you are quick to make a move.

8 2

You will have additional discipline that will aid you in your objectives. Your intellectual charm will entice new love interests. Consider the source before you believe what you hear. Don’t let others take advantage of your good nature.

Romance appears. Patience will be of utmost importance. Put something away in case of an emergency. Do not invest in ventures that only appear to be lucrative, have a think about what could be close to your heart.

Jun 21 - Jul 22

Jul 23 - Aug 22

Aug 23 -Sep 22

It’s time to let loose, exciting times are on the horizon. You’re eager to learn. Your family needs to spend some time with you, too. Be careful how you deal with colleagues, it might be better to hold your tongue, especially considering a potential career development.

Investments are best left alone this week. Emotional up and downs have caused doubts in your personal life. You will meet new romantic partners through the company you keep. Try to be honest when dealing with your mate, an open conversation is healthy.

Offer consolation, but don’t give them any direction. Avoid purchasing expensive items. Travel will lead you in new directions. Deal with the needs of the children in your life, you could impart some wisdom when it’s really needed.

Sep 23 - Oct 22 Try to understand their point of view. You may not be that popular at home but you should be able to shine at social gatherings. There is not much you can do to alleviate the problem, but consider putting some extra work into your house. You may find a rare antique this week.

Puzzle Solutions 8 5 3 4 9 2 1 6 7

6 9 1 8 5 7 4 3 2

4 2 7 3 1 6 5 9 8

9 1 8 7 2 5 6 4 3

2 6 4 9 8 3 7 1 5

3 7 5 1 6 4 2 8 9

1 4 9 5 7 8 3 2 6

5 3 6 2 4 9 8 7 1

7 8 2 6 3 1 9 5 4

3 1 9 4 8 2 7 6 5

6 9 4 5 2 1 3 7 8

1 7 3 8 4 9 5 2 6

8 2 5 6 7 3 4 1 9

5 4 1 2 3 6 9 8 7

9 3 6 7 5 8 2 4 1

7 8 2 1 9 4 6 5 3

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

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

PAGE 24 The Express, Wednesday April 30 2025

5

10

17

8 4

8 9

4

15

3

2

3

12 13

7 4

Time m 0551 2.80 1214 1.05 1823 2.27

Mar 21 - Apr 19

5 1 6

2

11

9

7 3

Time m 0506 2.80 1150 1.13 1741 2.10 2312 1.23

9

Enter digits from 1 to 9 into the blank spaces.

Every row must contain one of each digit.

EASY

Tuesday 6th 26° 17°

CROSSWORD

BIG WORD SEARCH

SUDOKU

Monday 5th 26° 18°

Oct 23 - Nov 21

You may be frustrated by the way situations are being handled in your personal life. You should get into programs that will enhance your appearance and help you to be the best that you can. Don’t turn down offers that include sports activities or team building exercises.

Nov 22 - Dec 21 You will be best suited to doing things around the house or inviting friends over for a visit.

Relationships have not been the best for you lately and it’s left you somewhat gun shy. Social functions will bring you in touch with new loved ones.

Dec 22 - Jan 19

Jan 20 - Feb 18

Feb 19 - Mar 20

Take your time be fore making personal decisions. Don’t give them the use of your credit card. You should consider getting into self improvement endeavours.

Socially, you need a fast paced form of entertainment, this could be the time to find a new hobby.

Talk to superiors about problems that you feel are getting out of hand. Romantic opportunities will develop through friends or relatives. Opportunities for love will develop while travelling or while attending religious functions. socialising are evident.

Be careful not to let friends or peers make you look bad. You will be emotional about family matters.

You might find that a coworker has been two faced. You must deal with an emotional problem with your loved one that you have been avoiding for some time now.

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EXPRESS The

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Classified Deadline: 4pm every Friday church notice PRESBYTERIANS meet in Mareeba for worship each Sunday 2pm, QCWA Hall, Wilkes Street (behind Meals on Wheels) ALL WELCOME!

Funeral notice IN LOVING MEMORY OF

WRIGHT, Anna Maria

Late of Mareeba. Passed away peacefully on Monday the 21st of April, 2025. Aged 62 years.

Much loved Wife of Bryan. Loving Mother and Mother-in-Law of Brianna, Caitlyn, Brendan, and their families. Cherished Daughter of Giovanni (Dec.) and Giuseppina. Loving Sister and Sisterin-Law to John and Kristie, Lenny and Sandy, and their families.

Will be sadly missed by all family and friends.

Relatives and friends of Anna are respectfully invited to attend her funeral service which is appointed to move from St. Thomas Catholic Church, 57 Constance Street, Mareeba on Tuesday 6th May, after a Requiem Mass commencing at 10:30am for interment in the Mareeba Cemetery.

Guilfoyle Funeral Services Chapels, Crematorium & Memorial Gardens

in MeMoriaM

For Sale

IN LOVING MEMORY OF

Carolyn Arnott 30.05.1947 - 01.05.2005

We thought of you today, but that is nothing new.

We thought of you yesterday, and will tomorrow too.

We think of you in silence, and make no outward show.

For what it meant to lose you, only those who love you know.

Remembering you is easy, we do it every day.

Itʼs the heartache of losing you, that will never go away.

www.guilfoylefunerals.com.au

STANKOVICH, Henry George

Late of Bruce Weir, Dimbulah. Passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his loved ones on the 21st of April, 2025. Aged 81 years.

Much loved Husband of Branka. Loving Father & Father-in-Law of Irena, Josh, Nataly, Sacsha & Jana. Cherished Dida of Dayan, Declan, Ashtyn, Novak & Dejan. Loved Brother, Brother-in-Law and Uncle to Boris (Dec.), Alan, Michael and their families.

Will be sadly missed by all and was a friend to many.

The relatives and friends of Henry are respectfully invited to attend his funeral service which will be held at the Mareeba Memorial Chapel, 45 Constance Street, Mareeba on Thursday 1st May 2025, commencing at 11:00am. Following the service, a private cremation will take place.

Guilfoyle Funeral Services

Funeral celebrant FUNERAL CELEBRANT

Debbie Boardman

PHONE: 0410 328 357

LOCAL Mobile Farm Butcher - will travel.

Ph Bryan 0407 691 752.

MOBILE farm butcher.

Ph John Hales 0409 638 882.

Death notice STRUBER, Francis “Frank”

Late of Malanda. Passed away peacefully with his loving family by his side on Wednesday the 23rd of April, 2025. Aged 94 years.

Cherished Husband of Pat (Dec.). Much loved Father and Father-in-Law of Bernie & Sandi, Kev & Kay, Jo & Fred, Doug & Joanne and Kath & Glynn.

Doting Grandfather to his 15 Grandchildren and all his Great Grandchildren.

In keeping with Frank’s wishes, a private service will be held.

Guilfoyle Funeral Services Chapels, Crematorium & Memorial Gardens

www.guilfoylefunerals.com.au

In loving memory of those who are forever in our hearts www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

4x4 auto diesel with canopy, 27,600klms, registered to 16th Dec, 2025, roadworthy certificate.

$20,000 ONO

traDe SerViceS AFFORDABLE OUTBOARD SERVICES

Travelling to Tablelands weekly or as required.

Former Yamaha/Suzuki/Mercury/Honda Dealer.

Call Karl 0447 725 465 Great Northern High Pressure Cleaning Soft Wash, House, Roof, Driveways, Gutters.

PHONE: 0477 774 064 jonnydams18@ gmail.com

TUTORING

Primary Literacy and Numeracy.

Qualified Teacher, Kairi.

Phone Robyn: 0488 270 348

MONDO’S

MOWING & YARD MAINTENANCE Servicing large blocks & acreage.

Pensioner discounts.

All Tablelands.

Phone: 0411 045 025

PREMIUM Tableland Red Top Soil $8.00 Per Tonne + Delivery

0418 773 504

PetS *ANIMAL OF THE WEEK*

NAME: Finley DOB: 05.01.25 BREED: Doberman x Border Collie Introducing Finley...

He’s wonderful with Kids, other Dogs and Cats. 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.

Finley’s adoption fee is $330.

Horse Trimming (Hoof Care) Horse Shoeing (Hot Shod) Kris: Phone 0478 636 540 PICKO Fencing and some cattle work.

Phone 0493 415 338

CLASSIFIED APPROVAL DEADLINE 4PM FRIDAY

Prior to the next week’s publication.

COULD YOU BE OUR NEW

FINANCE OFFICER? We need a Finance Officer in order to grow our business. Do you want a challenging job where you will love coming to work with a fantastic team? Do you want a great place to work where you have plenty of scope to learn, have fun, and work on interesting projects?

Then this FO role could be perfect for you... if you’ve got what it takes! Smart elec are on the hunt for an exceptional Finance Officer.

We’re the Atherton Tablelands #1 electrical company, recently taking out the honours for Employer of Choice at the TRC Business Excellence Awards.

Here’s why working with us will be the best career move you ever make: • Flexible work hours • Negotiated pay rates • A paid day off for your birthday • Bowling, barbeques and lots of fun social events you’ll need a sense of humour!

• A boss who looks after you - Daniel and Karen are well known for being ‘good buggers‘ Here’s what we need from you: • Be experienced in business financial systems • Be able to work un-supervised • Honest, Discreet and Trustworthy • Experience with Xero accounting software and Job Management software is not essential, but would be an advantage • Take pride in your work and go the extra mile to make sure each task is top-notch • Great people skills both with fellow workmates and customers

Check out the cool stuff we do at: www.smartelec.info If you think you’ve got what it takes, then apply now via email with a copy of your resume and brief covering letter telling us why you are the right person for the job.

Public notice

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

PoSition Vacant

For Sale

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

2009 Holden Colorado Dual Cab

Call Rex Cummings 0417 792 943

Chapels, Crematorium & Memorial Gardens

www.guilfoylefunerals.com.au

­

butcher

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

Loved & dearly missed by Narelle, Karyn and their families.

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

PoSition Vacant

TYRE TECHNICIAN Tyrepower Mareeba is seeking an experienced Tyre Technician for its very busy store.

Must be experienced in tyre fitting in house and in the field.

Excellent customer service skills.

A friendly & outgoing personality, good work ethic and communication skills.

Neat & tidy personal presentation.

Job Type: Full-time, after three months probation. Above award wages apply.

Apply in Person or Email Resumes to: mareeba@tyrepower.com.au Phone: 0418 772 602

MCGRATH, NORMA ROSE Notice of Intention to Apply for Grant After 14 days from today an application for a grant of probate of the will dated 27 September 2018 of NORMA ROSE MCGRATH late of 10 Coral St, Millaa Millaa Q.4886, deceased, will be made by ELIZABETH ANN BUTLER to the Supreme Court at Cairns.

You may object to the grant by lodging a caveat in that registry.

Any person having any claim against the estate (whether as creditor, beneficiary or otherwise) must send particulars of that claim to the undersigned within six weeks after the date of publication of this Notice, after which date, pursuant to section 67 of the Trusts Act 1973, the Applicant will distribute the estate of the deceased having regard only to the claims of which the Applicant has notice.

Lodged by: Elizabeth Butler of 690 Theresa Creek Road.

Women’s Sexual Assault Survivors Group Fortnightly: Wednesdays 9.00am - 11.00am, CWA Hall, Jack Street, Atherton FREE and welcoming (chats, coffee, craft & connection).

Please call TSAS 4091 4036 For further information

The Express, Wednesday April 30 2025 PAGE 25

Atherton RSL Sub Branch will be holding a service at the Memorial Park, Main Street, Atherton commencing 11.00am, Sunday 18 August to commemorate Vietnam Veteran’s Day. Members, Guests and the Public are invited to attend and lay a wreath.

Following the service, all are welcome to join the RSL Members and families at the Atherton Hotel.

Applications close on 6th September, 2024 with immediate start available for the successful applicant/s.

P CLASSIFIEDS ets

ANIMAL OF THE WEEK

General Enquires to the Secretary ublic John Mudge MBE Mob 0427 056 361

P

NAME: Charlie DOB: 19.01.24 BREED: Bull Arab x Mastiff Charlie is affectionate and charming.

Notice of Business Closure She’s great with Dualforce Pest Management children, cats and Wayne and Lisa Dorsett would like to other dogs. She thank all our wonderful, loyal customers hasforundergone your support over the past 18 years. thorough It has Vet been a pleasure to serve the Tablelands for soVax, long, De-sexed the years have checks including; & Migone by quickly and now thefee time has cro-chipped. Her adoption is $330.

come for Wayne to retire. likewetowish meet Thank If youyou oncewould again and you all the very best.

Charlie- please call

0487 430 443.

EFTPOS Available

CLASSIFIED DEADLINE AY! ID R F Y R E V E 4pm NOW: Call Beth 64 or Email

on 4092 34 wspaper.com.au expressne admin@the

Notice

Women’s Survivors Group Fortnightly: Wednesdays 9.00am - 11.00am, CWA Hall, Jack Street, Atherton FREE and welcoming (chats, coffee, craft & connection).

Please call TSAS 4091 4036 For further information

READ THE CLASSIES ONLINE

VOCAL LOCAL ORDER YOUR ETheXPRESS PHOTOS TODAY HOW DO I CANCEL AN ADVERTISEMENT?

Should you need to cancel an existing advertisement please call the office on (07) 4092 3464 before the deadline: Display Ads 9am Thursday; Classifieds 4pm Friday Prior to Wednesday’s publication date.

Another method of cancellation is by:

4092 3464

The Express, Wednesday 14 August 2024 PAGE 31

SPORT

Wellby wins in actionpacked bullrides

RESULTS Open – Braydon Wellby Novice – Mac Flood Junior – Josh Snell 11-14 – Nate Lawson and Trevor Gibson 8-11 – Tyson Ford and Lydon Ford

WE’RE YOUR

Emailing: admin@theexpressnewspaper.com.au

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

THE Great Northern Bullriding Series first event for 2025 was a great success as hundreds of locals gathered to watch the action.

The talent of the bulls in the open bullride proved too strong for all but one, as last year’s ANZAC round winner Braydon Wellby once again took home the prize money.

Popular local cowboy Josh Snell also found success, taking out the junior bullride.

Part of the proceeds from the event were donated to the Mareeba RSL sub-branch.

Covering local news, sport and entertainment from across the region

Tablelanders to play iconic carnival ONE of Queensland’s most iconic rugby league carnivals will be held this weekend in Townsville and will see 17 men and women from the Tablelands compete in the Far North Queensland teams.

The Foley Shield is one of the state’s most iconic rugby league events and sees teams from different areas of Queensland all vie for the shield and a spot in the Queensland Country team.

Representing the Far North from this Saturday to Monday at the Townsville Sports Precinct are 17 men and women from the Mareeba Gladiators and Atherton Roosters teams.

Approximately one quarter of the FNQ men’s team is made up of Tablelands players, while about one third of the FNQ women’s team is comprised of Atherton players, showcasing the range of talent that lies within the region.

Men - Mareeba Trezman Banjo Whyatt Barnes Kaleb Eaton Hubert Elu Ash Little Atherton Jhidan Dikes Rhylee Herd Shamish O’Quinn Women - Atherton Briannah Cater Jonah Donovan Layla Geck Aerielle Hobbler Trinity Kent Azariah Mataio Lexeen Mathieson Mayleen Oppermann Paige Schouw

Close loss for Bulls

One of the riders lost a boot after his efforts to stay on the bull failed.

SILO CENTRAL SHOPPING CENTRE Phone 4015 4004 ATHERTON SQUARE SHOPPING CENTRE Phone 4091 7665 FINE JEWELLERY, WATCHES & GIFTWARE ALL JEWELLERY & WATCH REPAIRS PAGE 26 The Express, Wednesday April 30 2025

THE Mareeba Bulls have just missed out on a win at their home ground on the weekend, going down to Innisfail 2-1.

Innisfail scored at the 19th minute mark of the first half through Glenn Kalchiwota, and the Bulls responded quickly, with Corentin Royer putting one in the net.

The Bulls went into the second half with hope, but that was dashed by Kalchiwota who scored again for Innisfail just one minute into playing time.

The Bulls have a week off this weekend, playing next on Saturday 10 May at home against the Marlin Coast Rangers.

Meanwhile, the Bulls Women’s side battled out a 2-2 draw against the Stratford Dolphins on Friday night.

Daley Collis put two into the net for the Dolphins in the first half, but Mareeba’s Shaquille Chong and Sam Madrid evened up the scoreboard for the Bulls with two goals in the second half.

The next game for the Bulls is at home on 9 May when they take on the Southside Comets.

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

SPORT ANZAC round a try frenzy

Roosters centre Brad Hammond scored a double in their dominant win over Yarrabah on ANZAC day.

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

THE ANZAC spirit flowed through the local rugby league clubs last week after they put up huge scores against their opponents on the special day.

The local clubs both played on ANZAC day and the Mareeba Gladiators had a massive win, scoring 14 tries and claiming a 74-0 win while the Atherton Roosters dominated their game for a 48-12 victory.

MAREEBA GLADIATORS The crowd at Davies Park enjoyed a try scoring frenzy on ANZAC day last week after a combined total of 24 tries were scored from the Mareeba Gladiators’ Reserve and A Grade teams when they hosted the Edmonton Storm.

The games were well-attended by local fans who thoroughly enjoyed watching the senior teams score over 120 points throughout the two games.

At the end of the main game, the club donated $3,640 to the local RSL sub-branch through money raised from a silent jersey auction.

Mareeba’s five-eighth Hubert Elu opened the scoring with a try in the fourth minute and from then on out the home team dominated the visitors.

Winger Aiden Morgan earned himself a hat trick while both centres Bronson Ryan and Aparama Vulavou scored doubles.

Both props also claimed a try with Ash Little claiming a double and Caleb Dally scoring one.

Lock Whyatt Barnes also went over for a fourpointer.

Other tries went to winger Joe Shadrick and fullback Tommy Waianga.

There were also three sin bins during the game, one being Mareeba halfback Kaleb Eaton and the other two from the Edmonton team.

Mareeba kicked nine from 14 conversions with hooker Trezman Banjo kicking three and halfback Kaleb Eaton kicking six.

The final score was a whopping 74-0, bumping

Gladiators captains Whyatt Barnes (middle-left) and Caleb Dally (middle-right) presented members of the Mareeba RSL sub-branch with a $3,640 cheque from funds raised through the club’s ANZAC jersey silent auction.

Mareeba up to fifth on the ladder.

Mareeba’s Reserve Grade also put up a big score for their first win of the season, thrashing Edmonton 52-6.

Second-rower Jason Hastie earned himself four tries during the big win.

There will be no games played in the FNQRL competition this weekend. Mareeba are set to take on the Innisfail Leprechauns next weekend in Innisfail.

ATHERTON ROOSTERS The Atherton Roosters also had a convincing win after defeating Yarrabah 48-12.

They shared the scoring around with centre Brad Hammond, winger Shamish O’Quinn, and fullback Rhy Young all scoring a double.

Other tries went to winger Regan Herd, prop James Coyle, and second-rower Graham Clark.

Their latest win has moved them up to third place on the ladder.

The Roosters Reserve Grade fell just short of a win, going down 22-28 to the Yarrabah Seahawks.

However, the Under 19s had a solid win, defeating the Seahawks 32-6.

The Roosters will take on Cairns Brothers next weekend in Atherton.

The Express, Wednesday April 30 2025 PAGE 27

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*If the price does not contain the notation that it is “Drive Away,” the price may not include additional costs such as stamp duty and other government charges. Please confirm the price and features with the seller of the vehicle. [F6] Approved applicants only. Terms and conditions apply. Vehicles are available as of the date of printing (28/04/25). We cannot guarantee the vehicle will be available after this date.

PAGE 28 The Express, Wednesday April 30 2025

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au