Wet Tropic Times, 2023, April 20, Newspaper Edition

WEATHER

Regional Rainfall Report

Spiritual Food with Jess

THE Lion and the Lamb

I have often questioned where God is in the midst of my circumstances. It's not the fact that I don't believe he isn't there. It's the fact that I cannot always see how he is at work in my life. This is where having faith beings to step in, and it's what we should cling to unwavering. Please read the Book of Esther if you haven't already. The book of Esther asks us to trust God's providence even when we can't see it working.

David also told Solomon, his son, "Be strong and courageous, and do the work. Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord God, my God, is with you.

1 Chronicles 28:20 NIV

Recently I found myself facing something Ungodly but amid what was against me. My God was for me. He met me where I was.

CRIME WRAP

Operation Pitcher –Firearms seized, Tully

OUR TEAM

Sari Russo management@ wettropictimes.com.au

OUR DETAILS

Office: 22 Lannercost Street Ingham, QLD 4850

Phone:

(07) 4776 0485

Website: wettropictimes.com.au

Email: info@ wettropictimes.com.au

Mail: PO Box 1100

Tully QLD 4854

POLICE have charged three people with 35 offences following a five month operation targeting a criminal syndicate allegedly responsible for trafficking firearms throughout the Cassowary Coast.

Detectives from the Tully Criminal Investigation Branch, with the assistance of Far North District Major and Organised Crime Squad and Tactical Crime Squad, executed three search warrants at properties in Jarrawong and Tully as part of Operation Pitcher.

He met me in the midst of my circumstances. He quenched the flaming arrows meant to destroy me, and His mighty peace was upon me. It never left me. I didn't have to call upon his name; He was already with me! This was not a situation I was prepared for. It just happened unexpectedly. As I conversed with God later that evening, reflecting on what happened, I was like, wow, God, that was a lot. I would be a complete mess, but you met me there. My heart was filled with Joy, and I began to laugh. Nothing catches God by surprise; he knows the beginning from the end. His word is true. His word is alive and active.

The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged."

It will be alleged the syndicate was responsible for a large number of property offences and farm thefts between October 2022 and March 2023 where they stole firearms, vehicles and machinery which were rebirthed and on sold for profit.

It will be further alleged the group was also responsible for the theft of over 10,000 litres of diesel from farming properties.

As a result of the Operation, three people have been arrested and charged.

A 32-year-old Tully man has been charged with one count each of unlawful trafficking in weapons (firearms), burglary and receiving tainted property.

He has been remanded in custody and is expected to appear in the Cairns Magistrates Court today, April 10.

A 35-year-old Tully man has been charged with eleven counts of stealing, three counts of burglary and receiving tainted property,

Deuteronomy 31:8 NIV

I am not saying you don't pray for situations beforehand. I always have and will continue to do so. But I am saying that when the enemy tries to catch us off guard and bring us down, our God will hold us up.

This is where intimacy and having a relationship with God matters, and walking in obedience to his word. God will never forsake his children: the Lion and the Lamb.

This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us. And if we know that he hears us—whatever we ask— we know that we have what we asked of him.

1 John 5:14-15 NIV

He said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me.

2 Corinthians 12:9 NIV

two counts of supplying dangerous drugs and one count each of unlawful supply of weapons, possession of burglary implements and disqualified driving.

He has been remanded in custody and is expected to appear in the Innisfail Magistrates Court on May 29.

A 45-year-old Tully woman has been issued with a notice to appear in the Innisfail Magistrates Court on June 22 charged with nine counts of stealing and one count of possessing a drug utensil.

Investigations are continuing.

If you have information for police, contact Policelink by providing information using the online suspicious activity form 24hrs per day at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting

Report crime information anonymously via Crime Stoppers. Call 1800 333 000 or report online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au.

IGGULDENS

& IGGsToo

VOLLEYS arrived at long last!!!

NEW FOOTIE BOOTS - Adult & youth, including new WIDE fit...

NEW WINTER GEAR - Get Ready! MENS & WOMENS croc-type footwear SANDALS, THONGS, SCUFFS & CLOGS - big range of colours & designs....

See if you earn a ticket in raffle for Miss WORLD (No, you don’t win Miss WORLD) (7 prizes of over $400 each).

We’re helping our own TULLY ENTRANT, HUNTER, fundraise for the QLD final.

IGGULDENS

17 Butler St, TULLY IGGsToo Banyan Plaza

Dametto demands more doctors

ON BEHALF OF NICK DAMETTO KATTER PARTY DEPUTY LEADER AND MP FOR HINCHINBROOK

STATE Member for Hinchinbrook and Katter’s Australian Party Deputy Leader, Nick Dametto, has sponsored a Queensland Parliament petition calling

for more full-time doctors in rural medical practices including but not limited to Cardwell, Ingham, Tully and Mission Beach.

The Hinchinbrook MP stated that rural medical practices are under resourced and it’s time for the State Labor Government to step up.

“The Hinchinbrook electorate has the highest aging population per capita compared to anywhere else in Queensland,” Mr Dametto said.

“It’s a fact that many health conditions are more common as people age, so you could say that the elderly are the higher users of our health services. Despite

Mission Beach Historical Society exhibition on show at the Mission Beach library

DR VALERIE BOLL PRESIDENT MISSION BEACH HISTORICAL SOCIETY

IF you missed the Mission Beach Historical Society (MBHS) inaugural exhibition ‘Echo of the Past – Historical photographs from Mission Beach, 1890s – 1950s’ at the Art, Print, Frame Gallery in Mission Beach, the photographic part of the show (framed photos and slide

show) is now on display at the Mission Beach library (2018 Tully Mission Beach Rd) from April 17 to May 27 2023, 10 am to 5 pm, Monday; 9 am to 5 pm, Tuesday to Friday; and 9 am to 12 pm, Saturday.

A series of historic photographs (portraits, landscapes, social events and work life scenes) and a slide show of photos provide an insight in the diverse early history of Mission Beach.

With Thanks to FRRR - Tim Fairfax Family Foundation, Art Print Frame Gallery, Cassowary Coast Libraries and Shane Knuth MP for their support.

If you have any photographs, stories or documents that would assist us please let us know.

this, we still have the regional and rural areas with aging populations not getting the adequate health care they deserve.

“Around this time last year, we were hearing the State Labor Government harp on about their 2022-23 record Health Budget. Well, the financial year is drawing to a close and in regional and rural areas we haven’t seen a larger workforce or innovative reforms to our health system, which was what this record Health Budget was set to achieve.

“We are calling on the community to sign this petition and demand more doctors for regional and rural areas.”

Principal Petitioner, Gabi Plumm has experienced first-hand the negative impacts that doctor shortages are having on rural towns such as Cardwell and believes both State and Federal Governments must act now.

“As I live in Cardwell, a town where a large majority of residents are over 60 years of age, I have seen how difficult it is for people get access to a doctor in order to: get a repeat prescription, get a referral to a specialist, or simply consult a medical professional when one’s health is failing,” Ms Plumm said.

“We are sent to Tully Hospital emergency which is fine if one can drive or if one has a friend to drive. This is not the case for many people, and we have no taxis or home visits.

“Our Family Practice in Cardwell has suffered from rapidly rising costs, major difficulties in employing doctors and nurses, with locums, when identified, charging vast sums just to relocate to this area.

“The State Government must expend more money to encourage doctors from overseas to come to this beautiful region, and the Federal Government must address the inadequate Medicare rebates which I understand, have not been increased for many years. It is a dreadful situation that must be addressed in both areas of government.”

photographs

From the moment it made its way onto our shores over 50 years ago, the Hilux quickly established itself as an Australian classic. A workhorse and family mover, no adventure is complete without one. And for good reason. Combining power with on-road presence, the Hilux continues to prove itself from generation to generation. Nothing beats the unbreakable connection between you and your Hilux. Visit

To sign the paper petition, please visit the Hinchinbrook Electorate Office located at 86-92 Herbert Street, Ingham or to sign the e-petition, please visit the Queensland Parliament website https:// www.parliament.qld.gov.au/Workof-the-Assembly/Petitions/PetitionDetails?id=3885

Valerie Boll, MBHS president & Leonard Andy, Djiru Traditional Owner, installing the exhibition (© V.Boll).

Some of the ‘Echo of the Past’ historical

(© V.Boll).

The Poster of the 'Echo of the Past' exhibition.

Feast of the Three Saints Honoured Their Deceased Committee Members

ON Sunday, April 16, 2023 the Feast of the Three Saints Committee honoured their deceased committee members by celebrating Mass. Committee members and family members of those deceased attended the service. Parish priest, Fr Kerry Crowley celebrated Mass at St John’s Church Silkwood.

At the end of the mass, three of the four new members, Anthony Contarino, David Pennisi, Santo Pagano, were introduced to those gathered. Madelyn Priddle, the fourth new member, was unable to attend. Also at this mass, two member received Life membership for their dedicated 25 years of continuous service to the Three Saints Committee. Congratulations

to Fred Caltabiano and Joe Girraffa.

The Feast of the Three Saints is held every year in Silkwood on the first Sunday of May, bringing people together, in celebration, from all over North Queensland and beyond.

On Sunday, May 7, 2023 the Feast of the Three Saints will celebrate 73 years in Australia. It is a day of celebration starting with an Italian Mass and followed by traditional Italian food, music, rides and amusements throughout the day.

For more details visit the Feast of the three Saints website or Facebook.

Moroccan Couscous Salad

Serves: 8

Prep time: 15 minutes

Cook time: 10 minutes

1 ½ serves per portion

Ingredients

2 cups quick-cooking couscous

2 cups boiling water

1 cup orange juice

½ cup raisins

2 teaspoons cumin seeds

Back Row (L-R): Cosimo Tedesco (President), Vincie Silvestro (Vice-President), David Pennisi, Santo Contarino, Santo Pagano, Vera Zappala (Secretary), Fr Kerry Crowley; Front Row (LR): Joe Vasta (Treasurer), Fed Caltabiano, Joe Giarraffa.

Dametto’s Last Ride

ON BEHALF OF NICK DAMETTO KATTER PARTY DEPUTY LEADER AND MP FOR HINCHINBROOK

HINCHINBROOK MP, Nick Dametto, gears up to ride for charity one last time at Ingham’s Sugar City Rodeo, Charity Bull Ride.

The action-packed, family friendly event showcasing some of the North’s best competitors will be held on Saturday, May 6, 2023 at the Ingham Showgrounds.

The State Member for Hinchinbrook first took on a bucking bull at the 2019 Ingham Sugar City Rodeo, in a bid to raise money for the local cancer support charity, Audrey’s Angels of Hope.

Since the event was established, the concept changed slightly giving would be bull riders an opportunity to get involved and ride along with Mr Dametto to raise funds for deserving charities. However, this year’s event will be Mr Dametto’s last ride and the last time the Charity Bull Ride will be included in the Ingham Sugar City Rodeo program.

The Hinchinbrook MP stated that it only seemed fit to be the sole rider at this year’s Charity Bull Ride to finish the event off the way it started.

“It has been a pleasure to be heavily involved in the annual Charity Bull Ride since 2019, I look forward to the event each calendar year however, it is time to hit the dirt one last time and hang up the spurs,” Mr Dametto said.

“Once again, I will be riding in memory of Judy Reardon and donating all funds raised to Audrey’s Angels of Hope.

“Fundraising events like this wouldn’t be possible if they weren’t backed by our generous and giving community. Thank you to everyone who has supported the event in the past, but I will be passing the hat around and asking you all to dig deep for one last time.

that the Charity Bull Ride has always been an event that brings the community together although all good things must come to an end.

“This one being Dametto’s Last Ride we would love to see bumper crowds to support our local politician and raise funds for Audrey’s Angels of Hope,” Mr Murdoch said.

“Nick is definitely fit enough, so let’s hope with a bit of extra training at the gym he can make a personal best or even better, stay on for eight seconds.

“The Committee would like to thank the community for their donations in the past. Since 2019 the Charity Bull Ride has raised over $14, 000 for charities like Audrey’s Angels of Hope, Hinchinbrook Branch Queensland Blue Light, Ingham Riding for Disabled Association, QCWA Long Pocket, Angel Flight and Black Dog Institute.

State Member for Hinchinbrook Nick Dametto

“Nearly everything in my life, I have improved at each time I’ve given it a go but since 2019 I can say my bull riding times are not getting any better.

“I have finally come to the realisation I’m not going to give up my day job and join the rodeo scene. But I am willing to risk it all one last time to entertain the crowd and raise money for a great cause.”

The Ingham Sugar City Rodeo President, Andy Murdoch, stated

“Unfortunately, all good things must come to an end, and it will be good to see the Charity Bull Ride event come to an end how it started with our State Member for Hinchinbrook taking on a raging bull.”

This year to streamline processes there will be no cash donations at the event, and instead a GoFundMe page has been created.

To support Dametto’s Last Ride and donate to Audrey’s Angels of Hope please visit https://gofund. me/83d09bcd

For more information, please visit the Ingham Sugar City Rodeo Facebook page.

6 tablespoons olive oil

4 tablespoons lemon juice

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon ground cumin

2 teaspoons ground coriander

1 teaspoon ground ginger

2 carrots, grated

1 red onion, finely diced

1 red capsicum, finely diced

2 x 400g can chickpeas, rinsed and drained

4 tablespoons flat leaf parsley, roughly chopped

Method

ADD the couscous and raisins to a medium bowl and pour over boiling water.

STIR through the orange juice and cumin seeds and quickly cover bowl with a plate or lid. Set aside to steam.

PLACE the oil, lemon juice, garlic and spices in a small jar and shake well. Set dressing aside. FLUFF the couscous with a fork to separate the grains then stir through the carrot, capsicum, onion and chickpeas.

POUR the dressing over top and toss to combine. Recipe courtesy of the Country Kitchens team

Empowering women through education and health is a priority for the Queensland Country Women’s Association (QCWA). The QCWA Country Kitchens program, funded by the Queensland Government through Health and Wellbeing Queensland, supports Queenslanders to adopt healthier lifestyles. To find out more about the program visit https://qcwacountrykitchens.com.au/.

Empowering women through education and health is a priority for the Queensland Country Women’s Association (QCWA). The QCWA Country Kitchens program, funded by the Queensland Government through Health and Wellbeing Queensland, supports Queenslanders to adopt healthier lifestyles. To find out more about the program visit https://qcwacountrykitchens.com.au/.

Back Row (L-R): New members: David Pennisi, Santo Contarino, Santo Pagano, and Fr Kerry Crowley; Front Row (L-R): Life Members: Fed Caltabiano, Joe Giarraffa.

The Entertainment Centre of Tully

The Tigers Leagues Club is the entertainment centre of Tully. We invite you to come and see our modern, comfortable interior. Boasting a large bistro, separate kids’ room and pokie room, the large bar in the centre of it all caps it off!

As with all Clubs we are a not-for-profit Club; everything we make through sales and gaming goes back into improving our facilities and services and our local community. The Tigers Leagues Club is the largest donating body in Tully – and proud of it!

TULLY – PHONE: 4068 1180

Our Pensioner Tuesday - 3 meal options for only $12.00 (served 12 - 2pm only)

Thirsty Thursday - Parmageddon night only $18 with a choice of toppings and includes a pot.

Daily - $15 Lunch Special includes a Pot of Drink (except Sunday)

We pride ourselves in offering a venue where you can come to enjoy a quiet drink, play the pokies or Keno in comfortable privacy, enjoy a meal in our bistro, listen to local talent while socialising with friends or participate in weekly Club promotional activates where you can have some fun and win big! We also offer our function area to our members for FREE (and are happy to cater for your social or work function).

Open for Lunch: 12.00pm to 2.00pm (7 days a week)

Open for Dinner: 6.00pm to 8.00pm (Monday to Saturday)

Former staff members pay tribute to local pharmacist, Santo Saffioti

MARIA GIRGENTI

WET TROPIC

Times

Doctors needed

SARI RUSSO NEE HYYTINEN

MISSION Beach is one of the most beautiful places in Australia. Surprisingly, a doctor has yet to want to move there, despite the fact there is already a facility ready and waiting for a doctor.

A petition to increase Doctor’s services in the Wet Tropics area can be signed online https://www. parliament.qld.gov.au/Work-of-the-Assembly/ Petitions/Petition-Details?id=3885 or at various facilities; there are printed versions that can be signed. The petition is focused predominantly on Cardwell, Ingham, Tully and Mission Beach.

When starting a business in a rural area, one significant issue is whether there will be enough customers. Currently, due to the shortage of Doctors, I highly doubt there would be a shortage of clients.

I am aware that when it comes to a doctor’s facility, you would want to think of yourself as something other than a customer; however, just like every other business, a doctor’s facility has staff and overheads that need to be paid for.

This leads to the question of why are we struggling?

We need to find answers to these questions:

1. Is it the need for educational opportunities for Doctor’s children in rural areas as the services are now predominantly provided in cities?

2. Have we allowed too many overseas students to enter our universities to obtain a medical qualification and then return overseas to practice and effectively not catered for those who would like to live and work in Australia once they complete their medical degree?

3. Is the main issue the lack of increasing the rebate for GPs in Australia for a significant portion of time?

4. Is it the lack or decrease in services such as bank facilities, telecommunications services, food service options, clothing facilities, health, and beauty options?

There may be more potential causes; however, once we determine the grounds for the significant decrease in GPs and medical services across Australia, we can create the correct strategy to counteract the problem.

I want our government only to pay a fortune analysing the issue if they are willing to utilise the report and develop strategies to improve the lack of service provision in rural areas.

I definitely want to avoid seeing a report that determines the reasons for the lack of medical services across Australia shelved for politically motivated reasons.

When it comes to Australian politics, I, like many other Australians, would like to see bipartisan support on issues that need to be addressed that affect all Australians at a fundamental level, not just arguing for the sake of arguing.

All Australians deserve to be heard. All Australians deserve an influential voice in our parliament.

IN February, past staff members of Saffioti’s Pharmacy gathered for a morning tea at Riverfront Café to pay tribute to Santo Saffiotti, who had the pharmacy in Innisfail for 20 years.

Saffioti, born in Babinda in 1936, completed his primary schooling at Babinda Convent School and secondary education at Marist Brothers College, Cairns.

For four years, Saffioti worked in the Innisfail Hospital dispensary as an apprentice pharmacist.

In the early years, pharmacists were known as chemists. They completed a four-year apprenticeship and one year of studies at the Technical College in Brisbane.

At that time, pharmacy was an apprenticeship only and, in later years, became a university course.

Known as compounding pharmacists, they made everything from ointments, lotions, mixtures, eye/ear drops, with limited availability of commercial tablets/ capsules.

Once qualified, Saffioti worked another year at Innisfail Hospital, then two years in Maureen Jacobs’ Pharmacy in Maroochydore.

After this, he worked for a year in Jack McElhinney’s Mareeba pharmacy.

In 1964, Saffioti purchased the pharmacy in Innisfail, previously started and owned by John Patane.

Saffioti’s started in the See Poy & Sons’ building, on the eastern side of the sewing machine shop, located next to See Poy & Sons’ electrical department.

After the sewing machine shop closed, Saffioti leased the shop next door and extended, which doubled the size of the pharmacy.

Back then, Innisfail had six

pharmacies with Saffioti’s, Hayles (Bob Hayles Snr, then Bob Hayles Jnr), Lagana’s, Terkelsen’s, which became Jacovos, Rothnies (Gordon Rothnie, then George Kotzas) and Torre’s.

Former staff of Saffioti’s included: Margaret Boyd (nee O’Brien) - worked for about six years, followed by temporary periods over many years; Cecilia Westcott (nee O’Brien); Connie De Luca (nee Monti), from 19711981); Lynn Callegari (Christmas school holidays 1967-1969); Yvonne Garrone, two years; Mary Rose Lane (nee Grech); Kareen Kovacich (nee Dalla Vecchia), 1972-1983); Kerry Paterson (nee Allwood), - December 1975 -1978; Marian Pulverenti (nee Guerra); Gloria Keegan (nee Guerra); Marian Eggleton; Lyn Tsakissiris (nee Francis); Irmgard Coffin (nee Schuster); Jeanette Spina (nee Zamarian); Vicky Williams; Louise Chioatto and Lea Celotto.

After 20 years, Santo Gullo purchased Saffioti’s Pharmacy,

and Saffioti then did locum work in Townsville, Ayr and Mount Isa.

In Mount Isa, Saffioti purchased and ran Turanga Pharmacy for 11 years, worked at the Corner Pharmacy, and purchased Menzies Pharmacy (later renamed Country Care Pharmacy), which he owned for five years.

Saffioti returned to Innisfail in late 2018, and in his retirement, he plans to indulge in his hobby of timberwork.

Terry White, Chemist, now owns Saffioti’s Pharmacy.

One of the biggest changes for pharmacists is the ability to consult and charge a fee for their professional services.

Small regional town pharmacies need to secure locum pharmacists to allow them to enjoy time off for holidays, as the job is 7 days a week, 52 weeks per year.

Saffioti stated, “in both Innisfail and Mount Isa, I had the best staff and was mostly respected and appreciated by customers.”

Bible Verse

Former staff members of Saffioti’s Pharmacy, Innisfail with Santo Saffioti at the Riverfront Café.

Santo Saffioti, in the dispensary at Saffiotti’s Pharmacy, Edith Street, Innisfail.

Santo Saffioti, in Saffioti’s Pharmacy dispensary located at Edith Street, Innisfail.

Community Activity Grants Round Four Now Open and Bulk Waste Support Program

Community Activity Grants

Round Four Now Open

Community Activity Grants (CAG) Round Four is now open for applications.

Applications are invited for:

• Community Group Support (Up to $1,000);

• Community Activities (Up to $2,000);

• Moderate Events (Between $2,000 - $5,000);

• Major Events (Up to $15,000);

• Signature Regionally Significant Events (Up to $30,000); and

• Community High Achievers ($250 individuals or $700 for teams of three or more).

If you have an event, activity, training, club operations work, or competitions that occur in or represent the Hinchinbrook Shire, please put forward an application.

To download an application form please visit Council's website, Community Activity Grants page.

Community Activity Grants close Sunday 30 April 2023.

Run Army 2023

Join the Australian Army by participating in the 'Run Army 2023' for Legacy Brisbane.

Run Army allows the community to follow in the footsteps of generations of

diggers, pushing themselves mentally and physically.

Register with team 'Hinchinbrook Park Runners' for the 5km or 10 km walk/ run.

Date: Sunday 23 April 2023

Time: 7.00am start

The starting point is located at the Eleanor Street car park. For further information or to register, please visit www.runarmy.com.au/register.

Customer Experience Survey

Extended

Council would like the community to take part in a Customer Experience Survey. Results from the survey will assist in the development of a Customer Experience Strategy.

This strategy is expected to highlight Council's interactions with the community.

To provide your feedback, please visit Council's website, Public Consultation page.

Survey closes 5.00pm Sunday 14 May 2023.

Bulk Waste Support Program

Did you know that Council in partnership with Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre is offering the Bulk Waste Support Program to eligible residents.

Tea & Trivia

Come

Date: Friday 21 April 2023

Time: 9.30am to 11.30am

Where: TYTO Conference and Events Centre 73-75 McIlwraith Street Ingham QLD 4850

The program is intended to assist infirm households within our Shire who are otherwise unable to remove large items from their home. Please note, the amount of waste to be collected is limited to a standard trailer load per household.

To view a list of eligible items, and to familiarise yourself with the rules of the event, please visit Council’s website, Bulk Waste Support Program page or contact Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre on 4776 1822.

Expression of InterestsIngham Show

Ingham Show is seeking Expressions of Interest for stall holders and volunteers for the annual Ingham Show.

To express your interest in holding a stall, please visit Ingham Show's website, Exhibitor Information page.

To express your interest in becoming a volunteer, please email inghamshow@bigpond.com.

Drawing YOU In Exhibition

Opening Night

Join us for the exhibition opening of Drawing YOU InCarl Lumholtz in the Herbert by Artist Valerie Keenan.

Date: Friday 5 May 2023

Time: 6.00pm to 9.00pm

Where: TYTO Regional Art Gallery 73-75 McIlwraith Street Ingham

This is a free event, cash bar and canapes are provided. Bookings are essential for catering purposes. Book online for this event at www.hinchinbrooktickets.com.au.

Community Response to Eliminating Suicide (CORES) One Day Course

Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre is hosting a one day suicide intervention course to provide residents with the confidence to recoginise and assess a person who may be at risk of self harm or suicide.

Date: Wednesday 21 June 2023 or Tuesday 8 August 2023

Time: 9.00am to 3.00pm

Where: 71 Townsville Road Ingham

Cost: Free Morning tea will be provided, please bring a packed lunch.

To register your interest please contact Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre on 4776 1822 or email communitysupport@hcsc.org.au.

ANZAC DAY COMMEMORATIONS 25 APRIL 2023

INGHAM DAWN PARADE

All Ex-Servicemen and Ex-Servicewomen are invited to attend the Dawn Parade assembling at the Mafeking Tree, opposite the Ingham Police Station at 4.15am Tuesday 25 April 2023. At the conclusion of the service, all those attending are invited to the RSL Clubrooms for coffee.

RSL REMEMBRANCE CEREMONY AT INGHAM

This ceremony, conducted by the Herbert River Sub-Branch of the RSL, will take place at the Ingham War Cemetery commencing at 6.00am.

HALIFAX PARADE AND COMMEMORATION CEREMONY

Schools and local organisations are invited to participate in the Halifax Parade and Commemoration Ceremony. All marchers taking part in the parade are requested to assemble at 8.10am near the gun on Victoria Terrace, under the direction of the Parade Marshall, Gordon Schmierer. The parade will move at 8.15am, march along the main street of Halifax to the Lion’s Clock and return to the Cenotaph where a wreath laying ceremony will take place.

FORREST BEACH PARADE AND COMMEMORATION

CEREMONY

Individuals, schools and local organisations are invited to participate in the Forrest Beach Progress Association Parade and Commemoration Ceremony. All marchers taking part in the parade are requested to assemble, under the direction of the Parade Marshall, Mr Richard Scobie, in Corbett Park near the Forrest Beach Surf Life Saving Club, at 6.50am. The parade will move at 7.00am, march along Palm Street to the Memorial Site in Progress Park where a wreath laying ceremony will take place. Light refreshments will be provided after the ceremony.

INGHAM PARADE AND COMMEMORATION CEREMONY

Schools and local organisations are invited to participate in the Anzac Day Parade and are requested to assemble, under the direction of the Parade Marshall, Captain Felix Reitano Retd, in Rotary Park adjacent old Barra Motors building, at 9.20am to march on the northern lane of Herbert Street into Palm Terrace to the Cenotaph where the commemoration ceremony will follow, wreaths will be placed on the Cenotaph and the Last Post and Reveille sounded. The parade will then be dismissed at the completion of the service.

FLAGS

Business people in the Shire are encouraged to display flags which are to be flown at half-mast from 8.00am until noon, and at the masthead for the remainder of the day.

WREATHS

The Committee respectfully suggests that persons considering the laying of Wreaths give consideration to the substitution of an Inscribed Book either instead of, or as well as, a Wreath. These books will then be presented to local Schools for inclusion in their Libraries as a lasting memento of the Ceremony.

ORDER OF MARCH

The Council invites artists from local, regional and national arenas to enter the 8th Hinchinbrook Birdlife Art Awards.

For further information or to download an Entry Form and Terms and Conditions, please visit the TYTO Regional Art Gallery Website, Art Awards page or phone 4776 4725.

Airforce Cadets; Returned and Service Persons; National Servicemen’s Association – Ingham Branch; Band; Military contingent; Scouts; Our Lady of Lourdes Primary School; Ingham State Primary School; Country Schools; Ingham State High School; St Teresa’s College and Gilroy Santa Maria College

“LEST WE FORGET”

DOG REGISTRATIONS

Is your dog microchipped? Have you recently moved to the Shire with your dog?

Have you recently acquired a dog?

All dogs (excluding working dogs) over the age of three months must be microchipped and registered with Council.

For more information on animal fees and charges, or to download a Dog Registration Form, please visit Council's website, Registration and Fees page.

Good Counsel College’s 2023 student leadership team

MARIA GIRGENTI

THE Good Counsel College community started the year with 394 students enrolled and had a busy and productive Term 1.

Principal Rosa Lanzo started at GCC in Semester 2, 2021, before her permanent appointment as Principal in October 2021.

College captains for 2023 are Aidan Herbert and Rylee Jones, with Olivia Laksa and Noah Maguire as vicecaptains.

Sports house captains: Ashleigh

Binello and Brendan Verri (Clancy); Dakota Brighton and Logan Lizzio (Mackillop); Bianca Brant and Baylee Worth (Marcellin) and Emily O’Brien and Harper Wiles (Polding).

The Year 7 and 8 cohorts are at full capacity. This year’s main priority is to improve students’ writing and work with Year 9 students sitting on Cs at the end of 2022, aiming to move them to Bs.

GCC provides access to multiple pathways, so students can make meaningful life choices by continuing with tertiary studies or entering the workforce. They are engaged in learning

that is relevant, collaborative, and futurefocused.

GCC welcomed new teachers Alexandra Fry, Emma Haren, Jessica Brunetto, Olivia Luxford and Liam Crossland (former student), as well as Seth Christopher (school counsellor/ teacher), and school officers Hannah Tindale and Hannah Spinella and Shannon Bruschi (former students).

GCC’s newly refurbished auditorium, which is airconditioned, provides an excellent venue for students to highlight their musical/drama talents.

GCC’s Student Representative Council (SRC) continues to strongly support and promote social justice programs/initiatives throughout the college and community, including Cancer Council, St Vincent de Paul Society Winter/Christmas Appeals and School Savy.

Tuckshop operates Monday to Friday, and GCC offers students a secure online ordering and cashless payment method.

Throughout the year, GCC provides students with extensive sporting opportunities.

Students continue to participate in friendly games against local and visiting schools and school-based netball, volleyball, soccer, touch football, League-Tag, rugby league and rugby union competitions.

P & F Association meetings are held on the second Wednesday of each month at 6.00 pm in the administration office boardroom.

Year 7 enrolments in 2024 are now open, and places are filling fast, so parents are recommended to submit their applications as soon as possible,

with round one interviews for Year 7 conducted at the College on May 6.

Every day, students and staff strive to live by the College motto of ‘One Spirit in Christ,’ as well as the core values of faith, compassion, integrity, inclusivity, perseverance and courage.

As well as learning, GCC packed a lot of events in Term 1, which included their swimming carnival, Year 7 camp, Caritas Lenten Appeal, cross country, Harmony Day, NAPLAN, Innisfail Catholic Debutante Ball and Feast of the Senses.

College captains: Olivia Laksa, Rylee Jones and vice-captains, Aidan Herbert and Noah Maguire.

Sports house and GCC captainsBack: Bianca Brant, Baylee Worth, Noah Maguire, Aidan Herbert, Brendan Verri and Harper Wiles.

Front: Ashleigh Binello, Logan Lizzio, Olivia Laksa, Rylee Jones, Dakota Brighton and Emily O’Brien.

GCC’s new staff - Back: Liam Crossland, Seth Christopher, Emma Haren, Hannah Spinella and Hannah Tindale. Front: Alexandra Fry, Shannon Bruschi, Olivia Luxford and Jessica Brunetto.

Innisfail social enterprise joins Virtual Reality revolution thanks to a new high-tech training hub

ENDEAVOUR FOUNDATION

KEY Points:

• 19 Innisfail social enterprise employees can now access state-of-the-art Virtual Reality training.

• Endeavour Foundation received an $8,744 grant for the training hub under the Stronger Communities Programme (Round 7)

• VR training programs include warehouse and forklift safety, traffic management, and driving.

• 25 interactive VR training programs and 200+ Thrive Learning programs are now available to employees.

Talent and Vision:

Social enterprise employees will demonstrate the VR in action and be available for interviews about the experience.

Endeavour Foundation’s EGM of Work will be available for interviews.

The Virtual Reality (VR) revolution is coming to Endeavour Foundation’s Innisfail social enterprise and employees are keen to accept the exciting new technology.

The disability service provider has unveiled a brand new VR learning hub, including a fast gaming computer, VR

headset, driving wheel, and a 75-inch e-board.

The high-tech hardware comes with a suite of interactive virtual training programs aimed at helping people with disability gain confidence by practising skills in the safety of the virtual world before taking them out into the real world.

Ben Exon is employed to construct wheelbarrows and recycle mattresses at the social enterprise and said he was keen to get behind the virtual wheel to practice driving.

“I play Nintendo at home, but I’ve never used VR before,” said Mr Exon, “It will be a lot more exciting than our usual training, and the forklift program will be good for safety.

“I’m excited to see how good my driving skills are because I’m on my Learner’s and I hope the VR can help me gain confidence.”

Eric Teed, Executive General Manager of Work for Endeavour Foundation, said the new technology would open doors to training experiences that employees had never had access to before.

“The Virtual Reality revolution has well and truly arrived at our Innisfail social enterprise,” Mr Teed said.

“Our social enterprises are businesses

that focus on skills development in the workplace, and the new VR hub will complement this perfectly thanks to the immersive forklift and warehouse safety, traffic management, and driving programs.

“Our employees will now be able to access 25 interactive VR training programs, and they’ll also gain access to more than 200 of Endeavour

Foundation’s Thrive Learning programs all in the one place.

“This wouldn’t have been possible without a government grant and we’re incredibly grateful to Bob Katter MP for supporting our application,” Mr Teed said.

The VR training hub was funded by a Stronger Communities Programme (Round 7) grant of $8,744.

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Church times across the region

AOG / ACC / Churches of Christ Baptist Family Centre Innisfail, 9:30am, Sun, 12 Tierney St, Innisfail Estate

6:30pm, Sun, Ladies Church Tully Baptist Church, 10am, Sun, 6 Plumb Street, Tully Cardwell Baptist Church, 11am, Sun, Bruce Highway, Cardwell Sugar Reef Baptist Church, 9:30am, S, “The Knightclub” 38 Herbert St, Ingham Baptist Independent, 11am, Sun, 77 Halifax Rd, Ingham

Uniting

Catholic Churches

St Rita’s Babinda, 7am, Sun, 15 Church St, Babinda

Mother of Good Counsel, 6:30pm Sat Vigil, 9am, Sun, 90 Rankin St, Innisfail

Our Lady of Fatima, 10am, Sun, 32 Glasgow Street, El Arish, St John the Evangelist, 6pm, Sat, 4 Harold Street, Silkwood, St Rita’s South Johnstone, 7am, 1st, 3rd & 5th/month, 5 Green Street, South Johnstone

Christ the King, 7am, 2nd & 4th/month, 10 Harbour Road, Mourilyan Holy Spirit, Mission Beach 7am Sun, 12 Webb Rd, Wongaling Beach

St Clare of Montefalco

Church, 6pm Vigil Mass, Sat 9am, Sun, 13 Mars St, Tully

Our Lady Star of the Sea, 5pm Sun (except 1st Sunday), 121 Victoria St, Cardwell Ingham Region Catholic

Parishes:

St Patrick’s, 8:30am, Sunday, 18 Abbott Street, Ingham

St Peter’s, 7am, Sunday, 10 Scott Street, Halifax, Canossa Chapel, 10am, Sunday, St Teresa’s College / 3819 Abergowrie Rd

St Teresa’s, Trebonne, 10am

Seventh Day Adventist

Seventh Day Adventist Innisfail, 10:30am, Sat ,Bible Study, 11am, Sat, 114 Lawrence Road, Bamboo Creek Tully Seventh Day Adventist Church, Sat 9:30am Sabbath School, Sat 11am, 1 Edward St, Tully

Cassowary Coast Uniting Churchs: Innisfail, 10.30am, Sun, 8 Scullen Ave, Mighell, Innisfail Mission Beach, 8am, Sun, 2224 Tully-Mission Beach Rd, Mission Beach, Tully Tongan Uniting, 9am, Sun, 16 Mcquillan st,Tully, Ingham District Uniting Churches: Ingham, 10am, Sun 16 Herbert St, Ingham Halifax, 8am, Sun 12 Anderssen St, Halifax Blue Haven Lodge, Ingham, 11am (2nd & 4th Tues)

Lutheran

St Marks Lutheran Church, 9am, Sun, 34 Townsville Road, Ingham Non-denominational

Empower Church Innisfail, 10am, Sun, 191-193 Mourilyan Rd, South Innisfail

Anglican Churches

St Albans Anglican Church, 9am, Sun, 83 Rankin Street, Innisfail St John Anglican Church, 5pm, Sat, 2 Black Street, Tully John Oliver Feetham Pioneer Memorial 11am, Sun, 45 Bruce Highway, Cardwell St John Anglican Church, 3pm, 3rd Sun of month, Motel Chapel, Kurrimine Beach Holy Trinity (Ingham) 6pm Saturday Service. 9am, Sunday. 37 McIlwraith Street, Ingham All Souls, 7.30am, Sun, 10 Four Mile Road, Victoria Estate

Once in a generation sugar price sets stage for bumper year

CANEGROWERS CHAIRMAN, OWEN MENKENS

THE 2023 sugarcane crush is just weeks away and once again growers are heading into harvest with a sense of trepidation and optimism.

While Queensland’s sugar mills are yet to release their official crop estimates, we expect an above average crop in most regions.

This is excellent news for growers, especially given the incredible rise of the world sugar price in recent months.

Just two years ago the sugar price languished below $400 per tonne, not even covering the cost of production for many growers. It was a pretty grim time.

Fast-forward to today and that figure has doubled, with the prompt price hitting highs of $804 per tonne in mid-April.

The last time we saw the prompt price at $800 was in 1980, more than 40 years ago, so growers are understandably excited.

While most growers have already priced their sugar from the 2022 season, and therefore won’t be able to take advantage of this high, prices for the coming seasons are equally impressive and continue to rise.

Queensland’s cane growers are unique amongst their international peers as the only sugarcane growers in the world who can forward price for seasons to come.

As of mid-April growers could forward price their 2023 sugar at $756 per tonne and their 2024 sugar at $651 per tonne.

Adding to growers’ excitement is a fall in global fertiliser prices, which had skyrocketed in recent years due to the war in Ukraine, all but negating any positive impact of rising sugar prices.

However, thanks to a recent decline in demand and a drop in natural gas prices, fertiliser prices are falling on the global market.

These falls haven’t filtered through to the local market yet, as resellers offtake old, highly priced stocks. But if fertiliser prices continue to drop, sugarcane growers should find their input costs significantly reduced when it comes time to fertilise ratoons around August/ September.

With rising sugar prices and falling input costs, we need just two more pieces of the puzzle to fall into place to make 2023 a bumper year for Queensland’s sugar industry – weather and mill performance.

Of course, we can’t control the weather, but so far Mother Nature hasn’t been too harsh, with plenty of rain and no cyclones.

Mill performance is a thornier issue, however, and one that is particularly worrisome for growers.

A combination of wet weather and poor mill performance in 2022 saw the crushing season blow out by four to six weeks in some districts, with harvesters cutting right through Christmas and well into January.

An extended season isn’t good for anyone. Growers lose out as sugar content in their cane declines, making harvesting uneconomical. Unharvested cane also has a negative knock-on effect on future seasons.

Mills also lose out, as they produce less sugar but must keep up staffing and maintenance levels. They also have a shorter off-season to carry out vital maintenance and capital works.

Growers have put in the time, effort, and money over recent months to ensure a good crop is ready for harvest.

We know that mill staff across our districts are working feverishly with local contractors and suppliers to try to meet their maintenance schedules.

It is in everybody’s interest to pull together and work towards getting this next crop off in a timely and efficient manner.

This industry sees our greatest prosperity when we pull together and, from what I’ve seen from our growers, harvesting crews, and mill staff, I know that is what everyone is striving towards.

The success of the coming season hinges on the efforts we put into now. If we can all rise to meet this challenge, and Mother Nature is kind, 2023 can be a fantastic year for Queensland’s sugarcane industry.

Solving air travel's emissions dilemma

CANEGROWERS

CANEGROWERS has welcomed Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk's recent public vote of confidence in the sugarcane industry's ability to supply the feedstock for a biofuels revolution in Queensland.

Announcing a second Sustainable Aviation Fuel project in as many weeks, Premier Palaszczuk declared Queensland "perfectly positioned to be a clean energy superpower because we have … the largest sugar industry in the nation."

CANEGROWERS Chairman Owen Menkens said the Government's desire to make Queensland a Sustainable Aviation Fuel hub fits perfectly within the industry's diversification plan.

"One of the main strategic objectives under the recently released Sugar Plus roadmap is to make Queensland's sugar industry an integral player in the state's emerging bioeconomy," Mr Menkens said.

"While the export of high-quality, sustainably produced raw sugar will remain the cornerstone of our industry, with the proper Government and commercial support, we also have huge potential to expand and diversify into other areas.

"It is very pleasing to see the Government taking seriously the prospect of building a sustainable biofuel industry in the state. Queensland's sugarcane growers stand ready and willing to help make that dream a reality."

With the Australian Government committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions to 43% below 2005 levels by 2030, all sectors of the economy have been plotting a pathway to a low-emissions future.

Sustainable Aviation Fuels have the potential to reduce the aviation industry's carbon emissions by up to 80%, significantly boosting the nation's effort towards that 2030 target.

Mr Menkens said Queensland sugarcane growers were in a position to help the aviation industry achieve its emissions reduction target, having spent a decade reducing their own carbon footprint.

"With more than 1500 domestic flights in Australia every day, the aviation industry burns through an awful lot of highly polluting jet fuel," Mr Menkens said.

"But while the aviation industry's emissions continue to increase, cane growers, by comparison, have spent a decade reducing their carbon footprint as part of ongoing efforts to improve water quality – efforts which have the knock-on effect of slashing emissions.

"Through the use of sugarcane and its derivatives to produce sustainable, low-emission biofuels and bioenergy, Queensland's sugar industry has a huge role to play in helping Australia reach its emission reduction targets."

CANEGROWERS recently commissioned an indepth analysis of the industry's emissions as part of developing a new climate change policy. The findings came as a surprise, albeit a very pleasant one.

"The bulk of the industry's emissions come from the volatilisation of nitrogen, which in layman's terms is when nitrogen fertiliser spread in the paddock is not used by the crop and converts to nitrous oxide which is a greenhouse gas," Mr Menkens said.

"By adhering to strict nutrient management strategies that ensure growers are only applying fertiliser required by the crop and positioning this fertiliser below the surface, growers have significantly decreased the amount of nitrous oxide lost to the environment.

"Meanwhile, the implementation of minimum till and controlled traffic systems on farms has greatly reduced the operating time of large agricultural machinery, slashing diesel usage across the industry.

"Add to that the fact that many farmers have installed large solar systems to power irrigation units, and the scale of emissions reductions in the industry becomes impressive.

"We will continue to adapt and innovate to ensure growers are operating as efficiently, cost-effectively, and profitably as possible. Profitability being the ultimate goal," Mr Menkens said.

"But we will look to achieve this with an eye to the future and the changing role that our great industry can have in Queensland and Australia's growing bioeconomy – a role that will benefit the whole community."

SPORT

Sean Princloo/Avis/Toni Buick

61.

Bowls News

Innisfail Ladies Bowls

LAST Wednesday, a round of the Innisfail Ladies B-Grade Singles competition took place with another exciting game.

After 12 ends, scores were 14 - 13, however Marilyn Allen went on to defeat Margaret Johnston 25 - 17.

Both ladies played some

Shane

IF there was a day to attend the most excellent game of all that is Rugby League on the weekend, then last Saturday night at the Tully Showgrounds was the place to be.

Unbelievable, crazy and downright incredible were the only words I could use to describe the day, and that was just Peter Lucy's shirt at the admission gate.

Our women's team hosted their first Rugby League game of the year when the Atherton Roosters came to town to play in all four grades, and boy, didn't they turn it on. Apart from the obvious talent on the show, both teams put on a spectacle.

The home side, led by their Lightning quick dummy half and niece Tamzin Muriata, these girls showed that this wasn't just going to be a circus show.

amazing bowls.

Two games of social bowls were played, where Ann Rule and Dian Catelan/Joan Atkinson defeated Dell Steve and Vera Rowe 14 - 12.

Eileen Hamann and Joan

Atkinson/Diana O’Brien defeated Lyn Stevenson and Helen Paterson 15 - 12.

Both games were extremely close all afternoon.

Tully Bowls

WEDNESDAY, April 12:

Eight players played Scroungers for a nice change, Gavin Buick/Joan Mercer/ Rita Hudson 74 v Robyn

Brunello/Avis Ray/Toni Buick

71

Gavin Buick/Pauline Edwards/Rita Hudson 51 v

Sunday, April 16:

Team 1 Rod Bradley/Pauline

Edwards/ValBradley (5) v Team

2 Peter Smith/Joan Mercer/ Joey (8)

Team 3 Lino Cercato/Des

Roberts/Avis Ray (11) v Team

4Steve Szabo/Lou Brunello/ Rita Hudson (7)

Team 5 Joanne Townsend/ Ray Wicks (9) v Team 6 Robyn

Brunello/Jason Harrop (13)

After Smoko

Team 1 (4) v Team 3 (10).

Team 2 (1) v Team 4 (14). Team 5 (6) v Team 8 (12).

Winning Team Lino/Des Roberts/Avis Ray

Mens Pennants Draw is on the board, Ladies Pennants Teams to be drawn up this week.

Ingham Bowls Club News

BAREFOOT bowls results for April 13:

Prize winning team was Donna Gosney, Malynda Cole, Angie Foti & Elsa Piotto defeating Eric Fung, Mark Girgenti, John Lone & John Piotto 12 - 9

Results of the Men's pairs played on April 14:

L Molochino & P Herman def

J Hamlyn & K Walker 19 - 8

P Ryan & K Turvey def T Pallanza & T George 21 - 16K Lawlor 7 T Koop drew with G Brierley & R Peterson 18 -18

Results of the Mixed social bowls played on Sunday, April 16:

Prize winning team was:

J Dickerson, J Hamlyn & S Richards defeating P Reyland, N Evans & R Basaglia 30 - 7 (21 points to 6)

J Craven, J Eddleston & A Torielli def J Holmes, D Horsley & E Piotto 24 - 15 (20 points to 7)

J Fenoglio, K Walker & T Koop def B Eddleston, R Cantatore & P Herman 21 - 18 (17 points to 10)

Happening at our club this week: Call 47762117 or 0487240397 to nominate for any of the following games.

Barefoot bowls played every Thursday between 6 pm – 8 pm

Names into the club by 5:30 pm

Men's Pairs played every Friday at 2:15 pm

Names on the board by 1:45 pm

5.

Muriata

Although the tigresses didn't get the chocolates on the day, they more than earned respect from coach KD and the rest of the massive crowd that turned up early to watch.

The player that impressed yours truly was Alexandra Ambrum; I mean, what a star. If she was in the current Cowboys team, they wouldn't be running second last on the NRL ladder; such was her display.

The 18s game proved to be one of the games of the day; such was both team's energy and talent.

Atherton, bolstered by a few State League players, came to Tully looking for the win, but our boys took the game and made it theirs. My player of the match for the day went to Xavier Carlaw, with Jayden Mothe not far behind. Our Reserve Grade Tigers showed and flexed their

muscles (ok, that was probably Fitzy flexing) with a dominant display of footy to take the points.

I know the score indicated a close game, but this Jordon Ketchell-coached team is one of the best Reggie's sides around, and it borders on an A-grade side already. Hopefully, the boys will stick together and keep the top spot.

My MVP was none other than Pauly Ketchell, the evergreen Duracell Battery Bunny. This guy has more hits than a jukebox, more style than Harry Styles and more shakes than

S Richards on duty for April 21:

a milkshake. He only just beat Jeremy Dickman, or Goldfish was the name someone once gave him many moons ago.

By the time A grade rolled around, it was a finals match in mid-April, such was the game's intensity. Captain Coach Colin Wilkie was full of praise in the dressing shed after the game. "We only completed 37 percent, we just didn't do enough with the ball to win. Our two debutants in Cameron Nelson and Cohen Emmi went brilliant, and it goes to show we are developing good talent. Hopefully we build on this". It was a great game,

Mixed Social Bowls played every Sunday at 1:30 pm.

Names into the club by 12:30 pm

On Roster for April 23: Bar- P Ryan

Social Selector- T Koop

Congratulations to Phil Kite on winning A Grade singles for 2023 in a tight game against Brad Wilson and

Congratulations to Russell Peterson on winning B Grade in another close game against Trevor Pallanza.

and it went down to the wire, and the man who kept us in it and my MVP was 5/8 Batiste. His kicking game alone, I felt, kept us in the game, As well as his game awareness. Former North Queensland Cowboys Front Rower and now Atherton Roosters coach Scott Bolton said it best after I caught up with him after the game "Your Tigers could be there abouts come the end, if they stick together". Hopefully, we can.

Phil Kite A Grade Winner

R Peterson B Grade winner

Players who participated in the Innisfail Ladies Bowls Easter Day on April

Helen Paterson, winner of the spider at Innisfail Ladies Bowls Easter Day.

Cohen Emmi- Making his Tully Tigers A grade debut was a special moment on Saturday night.

Tully Tigers and Atherton Roosters Women's Teams come together for a photo after their hard fought match.

Tully and Innisfail rugby league players selected in the Cairns Foley Shield Men's team

STORY AND PHOTOS BY MARIA GIRGENTI

TWO Innisfail Leprechauns

A-grade rugby league players have earned selection in the Foley Shield Men's A-Grade Men's squad.

Tully Tigers recruit Baptiste Fabre, along with Innisfail's Aaron Jolley, Jason Hallie and Lata Fakalelu, feature in the Cairns Foley Shield men's team who will go up against Townsville and Mackay teams to contest the coveted shield.

Seven Cairns Brothers players feature in this year's Foley shield squad and their head sports trainer/FAO Craig McKell, whilst Mossman-Port Douglas has six players and Ivanhoe Knights five players.

The squad comprises the following players in the Far North Rugby League competition.

Aaron Jolley (Innisfail), Adam

Hepworth (Cairns Brothers), Aiden Day (Kangaroos), Ammiel Harris (Yarrabah), Baptiste Fabre (Tully Tigers), Ben Barba (Mossman-Port Douglas), Bradley Stephen, (Kangaroos), Brandon Tatipata (Kangaroos), Budughi Gibuma (MossmanPort Douglas), Dallas Skardon (Ivanhoe Knights), Davin Crampton (Mossman-Port Douglas), Eddie Daniels (Kangaroos), Ernest Suavai (Cairns Brothers), Falcon Peni (Cairns Brothers), Isiah

Wigness (Cairns Brothers), Jason Hallie (Innisfail), Joey Ratuvakacerereivu (Cairns Brothers), Joey Wigness (Cairns Brothers), Justin Timu (Ivanhoe Knights), Lachlan Braun (Ivanhoe Knights), Lewis Mene (Mossman-Port Douglas), Noel Underwood (Mossman-Port Douglas), Rhylee Herd (Ivanhoe Knights), Ryan Magua (Mossman-Port Douglas),(Taniela Ta'ufo'ou (Cairns Brothers), Taulata Fakalelu (Innisfail), Trezman

Banjo (Mareeba), William Messa (Ivanhoe Knights), and Zachery Mossman (Yarrabah).

Coach: Jono Zangrande.

Assistant coaches: Joel Riethmuller and Jason Roos.

Manager: Brendan Styles.

FAO: Craig McKell.

The XXXX Foley Shield is a carnival running in North Queensland since 1948 and administered by Queensland Rugby League.

After 2012, the Foley

Shield competition went into hibernation and then reborn and revised in 2017, with the three regions of Northern Pride and CDRL, Townsville Blackhawks and Townsville District Rugby League and Mackay Cutters and Mackay District Rugby League involved.

This year's Foley Shield competition will occur at Barlow Park, Cairns, from April 29 to May 1. (May Day long weekend).

The three-day competition will feature two daily games, including men's and women's representative teams from Cairns, Mackay and Townsville.

Tully athletes shone at the LAQ McDonald’s State Championships

MARIA GIRGENTI

TULLY Little Athletics had fantastic representation with twenty-five members in action at the LAQ McDonald’s State Championships held at Townsville Sports Precinct from March 24 - 26.

Bree Dickman, Marshall Roissetter, Jackson Solien, Glenn Roissetter, Lachlan McKiernan-Newman, Layla Morris, Warrick Grimaz, Rhys Vipiana, Rajveer Singh, Phoebe Hansen-Polzin, Chase Frumento, Indiana Grimaz, Vanora Noonan, Nina Trickey, Casper Roissetter, Kace Hodgson, Jake Ball, Dean Giardina, Cooper Sichter, Zoe Ball, Heath Driemel, Blake Riley, Saxon Solien, Lincoln Calleja and Shaun Riley.

This event, which is held in Townsville every four years, attracted athletes from across Queensland which included Cairns, Tablelands, Townsville, Brisbane, Mackay,

Noosa, Ipswich, Bundaberg, Rockhampton, Nambour, Gold Coast, Toowoomba, Maryborough, Gympie, Gladstone, Mossman/Port Douglas, and Chinchilla.

The Tully club did incredibly well, with most athletes achieving multiple personal bests, stacks of broken records and returned home with six medals.

Rajveer Singh - Under 15 Boys

Silver medal: 100m (11.60)

Chase Frumento - Under 11 Boys

Silver medal: 1,100m race/walk (7:07.40)

Bronze medal: Shot put 2kg (10.05m)

Bronze medal: Discus 500g (33.83m)

Shaun Riley - Under 11 Boys

Silver medal: Shot put 2kg (10.75m)

Blake Riley - Under 9 Boys

Bronze medal: Discus 500g (20.02m)

Club records broken at the LAQ McDonalds State Championships, Townsville: Blake Riley: Under 9 - Discus

Nina Trickey: Under 9 - 700m Race/Walk

Layla Morris: Under 10 - 200m and 800m

Vanora Noonan: Under 1180m Hurdles

Saxon Solien: Under 11 - 400m

and 800m

Shaun Riley: Under 11 - Shot Put

Chase Frumento: Under 11Race/Walk, Javelin

Jackson Solien: Under 14Javelin, Discus Lachlan McKiernan-Newman: Under 15 - High Jump

Rajveer Singh: Under 15200m and 100m

Dean Giardina: Under 16 - Long Jump and 100m

Tully’s newest recruit Baptiste Fabre gained selection in the Foley Shield Men’s team.

Innisfail Leprechauns’ Jason Hallie.

Innisfail Leprechauns’ Aaron Jolley.

Innisfail Leprechauns’ Taulata Fakalelu (with ball).

TLA members, Marshall and Glenn Roissetter, Vanora Noonan, Rhys Vipiana, Layla Morris, and Chase Frumento at the LAQ State Championships in Townsville.

Rajveer Singh won silver in the 100m.

Shaun Riley won silver in Shot Put, whilst Chase Frumento collected one silver and two bronze medals.

Blake Riley won a bronze medal in the Discus.

Lincoln Calleja launched a throw in the Discus. Photo: LAQ - Danielle Sibenaler.

Nina Trickey broke a club record in the 700m Run/Walk. Photo: LAQDanielle Sibenaler.

Layla Morris in the High Jump event. Photo: LAQDanielle Sibenaler.

SPORT

Innisfail Sports Spectacular

STORY AND PHOTOS BY MARIA GIRGENTI

LAST month, four hundred primary students in Years 4 - 6 from across the Cassowary Coast district converged on Callendar Park, Innisfail, for the Innisfail Sports Spectacular run by Peninsula School Sport.

This is the second year of the event,

and in 2022 it took place at Castor Park, Mourilyan.

On the days, 16 school groups participated in eight rotational sporting activities for 15 minutes.

Students from Good Counsel Primary, Goondi, Mundoo, Mourilyan, St Rita’s South Johnstone, Silkwood, St Rita’s Babinda, Kennedy, Bartle Frere,

Babinda and Innisfail State Schools.

NRL/QRL, rugby union, tennis, Queensland Cricket, Queensland Touch Football, league tag, Etty Bay Surf Lifesaving Club.

Secondary students from Innisfail State College, Good Counsel College and Tully State High School who are part of Innisfail Academy of Sport and

studying Certificate II in Coaching observed and assisted development officers with activities.

The establishment of Sports Spectacular came about from feedback and recommendations from the 2021 FNQ School Sport Survey; Principals, sports coordinators, students and P&C Association Presidents indicated that sport is an essential driver to improving students’ attendance and engagement.

Recommendations from the survey were to provide more grassroots sporting opportunities for students in the FNQ region.

The event’s key objectives are to provide sporting opportunities for students to engage with sporting development officers across various sports and establish networks between school staff, local junior development officers and other schools throughout the region.

It also strengthens staff capability and professional knowledge about sporting programs/skills with sports/rotations run by industry professionals, junior development officers and community partners.

Develop and link-local professional networks between schools, families and local sporting organisations/groups to improve access to school and club sport. Provide primary school students with access to grassroots sports as a way of upskilling students to enter the representative school sport pathway.

These key objectives align with the Department of Education’s State Schooling Strategy 2022 - 2026.

Goondi State School students and staff at the Etty Bay Surf Lifesaving Club station.

St John’s School, Silkwood students at the Queensland Touch Football activity station.

Good Counsel Primary School students gave rugby league a go at the NRL/QRL station.

Mourilyan State School students tried rugby union.

Students and staff from Mundoo and Kennedy State Schools at Queensland Cricket.

Coconuts' paddler Matthew Abbott powered his way to success at the National V1 Championships

MARIA GIRGENTI

IN February, Coconuts Outrigger Canoe Club head coach and current Australian OC1 champion Matthew Abbott enjoyed recent success at the National V1 Championships held in Brisbane.

The race occurred at Suttons Beach, Redcliffe and covered 12km in a triangle format along the coast. Conditions were light, and Abbott placed second over the line in a time of 1hr 8 mins qualifying to represent Australia at the IVF World Distance Championships in Samoa in August.

Abbott stated, "The V1 is a challenging craft to race as it has no rudder. I am constantly learning and look forward to representing Australia in Samoa."

In late February, Abbott and other club members competed in the annual Sydney Harbour Challenge.

This year's event was moved from Manly to Rose Bay, and the 22km course included an open ocean portion outside of South Head and a run up the Harbour past Fort Denison, Shark Island and Sydney Opera House.

The race attracted world-class paddlers from Hawaii, Tahiti, New Zealand and Australia, with 135 OC6 (6man) crews competing.

Abbott paddled with a group of top Open Men paddlers from North Queensland.

"Out of the two North Queensland teams that raced in Sydney, five men have qualified to represent Australia in the Open Men's division in the OC6 team long distance race. This is a fantastic result for NQ zone," said Abbott.

The club also fielded an Open mixed team of Adrian Darveniza, Miles Darveniza, Bernie Reitano, Vicki Mackereth, Ute Holzrichter and Brodie Alder.

This team crossed the line eighth out of a field of 30 canoes and fourth in the Open Division in 2 hrs 6 mins.

Steerer and Coconuts President Adrian Darveniza said, "The race had beautiful views of the Sydney Harbour and paddling out through the mountainous waves crashing against the towering cliffs of South Head added to the challenge."

The day after the Sydney Harbour Challenge, Abbott and Adrian Darveniza backed up to race in the AOCRA Ozone R1: Kurnell Run Downwinder 20 kms.

Some of the world's best paddlers included Kevin C Jerusalemy, Tupuria King, and Kevin Kouider led the men's race and challenged a talented field of paddlers from Hawaii, New Zealand and Australia.

Abbott crossed the line fourth in a time of 1hr 34mins, the first Australian competitor to finish.

Adrian Darveniza finished tenth in the Master Men Division in a time of 1 hr 47mins.

In other exciting club news, Abbott recently announced the Australian Elite Open Men's V6 and Men's V1 World Distance coach.

"I am honoured to be selected for this role and am looking forward to working with Australia's best paddlers to gain the most out of the team for the World Championships.'

The Coconuts Club always welcomes new social and competitive members. Now is a great time to try paddling, so for further details, please visit their Facebook page.

Coconuts paddler, Matthew Abbott after finishing fourth in the Kurnell Run Downwinder 20kms in Sydney.

Coconuts Open mixed team: Miles Darveniza, Vicki Mackereth, Brodie Alder, Adrian Darveniza, Bernie Reitano and Ute Holzrichter.

Coconuts Open mixed team in action on the water during the Sydney Harbour Challenge. Photo: Australian Outriggers.

Coconuts’ paddlers and supporters on their way to Sydney.

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Fishing

News

CROC FOOTWEAR MASSIVE RESTOCK!

RoLy Newton

THE incredible run of excellent boating conditions we enjoyed through the Easter break continued through last weekend. The boats that managed to travel out and fish the main reefs enjoyed reasonable fishing with the average boat with two anglers managing 5 or 6 Coral Trout and a bag of mixed reef species. Not spectacular fishing but certainly enough for most anglers to take home a feed.

Boats that trolled the pressure points on the reefs or put out floating baits while bottom fishing also managed a nice Spanish Mackerel or two.

I am still waiting to hear a lot of reports of boats fishing the wrecks and various shoals and wonky holes between the shipping channel and the main reefs; however, there are good numbers of Nannygai around. You have to beat the Bull sharks.

Closer in around the islands and coastal reefs, the fishing has been slower. The sizeable tidal run made it difficult to fish the deeper holes. Anglers were forced to fish the shallower grounds, where I feel the high water temperatures caused problems. Jigging and casting lures have caught some excellent Queen fish and Golden Trevally; however, anglers are losing lures to minor Spanish and School Mackerel, so adding a short wire trace makes sense.

TIDE TIMES

APRIL

JOHNSTONE RIVER APRIL

HULL HEADS

Although absent in large numbers last weekend, some quality Grunter and Fingermark were caught from the islands and inshore reefs. Those bait fishing caught mainly Grass Sweet Lip, Gold Spot Cod and the occasional Trout.

Well, the estuaries are definitely starting to fish better with switched-on lure fishermen landing Mangrove Jacks, Barra, Gold Spot and Estuary Cod. The Whiting and Bream have also begun entering the estuaries, with anglers reporting catching some great whiting up to 40cm. The larger tides over the weekend were ideal for pumping some yabbies or casting a net for some fresh prawns for bait for these great-eating fish.

The mud crabs have been around in reasonable numbers over the last month. It will be interesting to see if the rain we are forecast to receive before this report is released gives them another boost.

The freshwater reaches of the coastal rivers have been fishing incredibly well. There have been vast numbers of Sooty Grunter and Barra being caught, along with some nice Jacks and Jungle Perch. Every creek and river gets to that perfect water height and clarity at slightly different times. Still, if you can manage to get the timing right, you can enjoy some champagne fishing. Small to medium-sized diving lures such as the Jackson Joker were standouts over the weekend, large enough to handle the Barra and Jacks and small enough to attract the Sooty Grunter and Jungle Perch. If you crush down the barbs on the trebles, you can release your unwanted catch without removing the fish from the water. Surprisingly, the size of some of the

Barra that will move right up high into the freshwater reaches of our rivers.

Unfortunately, this coming weekend's forecast is unsuitable for offshore boating, so anglers will be confined to the estuaries. I like the early morning incoming tide to fish for Barra or Mangrove Jacks. The alternative is to fish on either side of the afternoon low. The more extensive evening incoming tide will suit those that wish to fish for Grunter in the estuaries or, even better, the sheltered waters of the Hinchinbrook channel. The mud crabs should be on the move, so remember the crab pots. There have also been good numbers of prawns along the esplanades.

Of course, depending on how much rain we receive before the weekend, you could always head up into the freshwater for a fish.

Good Fishing

Roly Newton

Tackle World Tully

Dexter Barelds with a big JP from the weekends adventures.

Pro Staffer Ryan Sanger with a big Jungle Perch taken on a Jester Minnow.

SPORT

Coconuts’ paddler Matthew Abbott powered his way to success at the National V1 Championships... Page 18

Tully Touch's Maria Crema, recipient of Queensland Touch Football's Sue Salter Service Award

MARIA GIRGENTI

TULLY Touch's Maria Crema received Queensland Touch Football's Sue Salter Service Award for 40 years of contribution to the game.

She received the award at the NQ Cyclones awards night at the National Touch Football Titles, Coffs Harbour.

Since the age of 13, Crema has played touch football with regional and state-level representation.

When her four children started to play, Crema became involved with refereeing, then as Junior coordinator.

She ran skills and drills for two years before starting a small junior competition.

Since then, this competition has grown to over 100 players aged 7 - 13.

Crema is now the President of the Tully junior and senior clubs.

Crema has taken teams to the Junior State Cup North in Townsville for over ten years, growing from two to 10 teams in 2023.

This award was initiated by NQ Touch in 2021 to recognise a person who has worked constantly over time as a volunteer to further touch football for players, coaches and their local/regional associations.

Given her touch football background, NQ Touch sought Salter's approval to have the award named in her honour, and she was the first recipient of the prize.

Sue Salter has lived in Townsville for 40 years and recently retired as a high school PE teacher.

Salter has had extensive coaching experience at club, regional, state, national and international levels, and in the school system at local, regional and state levels, winning numerous competitions at every level.

Salter currently coaches in the Townsville local club competition, emphasising developing junior female players.

Tully Touch kicked off their season in February and, after a two-week break for the Easter holidays, has resumed, which will finish in June.

This season the association has over 150 children playing on a Wednesday from 4.30 pm - 5.30 pm fielding ten mixed teams ranging from eight- to 12-year-old, as well as senior competition, which has four lady's teams and 12 men's teams competing.

All juniors and seniors are now full; however, if there is anyone wanting to make up a team for next season (A-mixed, family and juniors), please contact Tully Touch Association early to secure a spot.

Tully Touch will start a new round in August, which runs until November, for those who want to be involved in the game.

Last month, Tully Touch held a successful Gala Day at Tully Showgrounds and invited Innisfail, Cairns and Gordonvale teams to participate.

This day provided excellent practice and team preparation before competing in the Junior State Cup North from April 14 - 16. Tully fielded ten boys' and girls' teams from the Under 10 - Under 18 age groups.

Teitzel's IGA and Cassowary Coast Regional Council proudly sponsored the Gala Day in Tully.

It’s

SO

Maria Crema from Tully Touch, received Queensland Touch Football’s Sue Salter Service Award for 40 years contribution to the game.

Tully and Innisfail junior touch players in action at the Gala Day in Tully.

Tully and Innisfail junior touch players at the Gala Day held in March.

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