Wet Tropic Times, 2023, August 31, Newspaper Edition

IGGULDENS

& IGGsToo

FATHER’S DAY THIS SUNDAY. MONGREL WORKBOOTS for COMFORT for DAD - & plenty of other brands.

LED/USB lights etc & Many GIFTS for DADs, from HEAD to TOE.

IGGULDENS

ON BEHALF OF BOB KATTER FEDERAL KENNEDY MP

HON Bob Katter, Federal Member for Kennedy, has applauded the announcement by the Queensland Government today that they will step in to rescue the Cardwell medical clinic.

The GP clinic had intended to shut its doors permanently on September 1 due to extreme doctor shortages and staff burnout, but the Queensland Government has today announced that management

Local fighters victorious as Cardwell GP given lifeline

has been transferred to the Townsville Hospital and Health Service and that Rural Health Management Services have been appointed to operate the practice.

Mr Katter said the courage and fortitude shown by the locals on the ground was outstanding and that this result could only have been achieved by the community’s relentless pursuit of both state and government intervention.

“Julie McKay and Carmen Edmonson are two the most unrelenting, tenacious tigers that I’ve ever had the pleasure of meeting. An enormous congratulations must first go to them for their tireless efforts in fighting for their patients and the community here. We need more Julies and Carmens in the world.

“We also sincerely thank the local champions that never gave up; Qld KAP Hinchinbrook MP, Nick Dametto, Mayor Mark Nolan and the team at Cassowary Coast Regional Council and the Cardwell locals for fighting like tigers to get this result.

“Finally, we thank the Federal Minister for Health, Hon Mark Butler, for forcing the Queensland Government’s hand here.”

Owner and Registered Nurse, Julie McKay together with her counterpart and Practice Manager, Carmen Edmonson said the clouds that had shrouded the community had shifted with the news that the practice

would stay open.

“We are absolutely ecstatic about today’s announcement, and we are exceptionally thankful to everyone who played a role here, Bob Katter, Nick Dametto for driving this this and the Federal Minister for intervening to ensure a positive outcome,” Julie McKay said.

“We want to thank our patients for taking the time to go to their elected representatives and for the pressure they put on the ministers, and we thank the PHN who is working with us as well. Our little town wasn’t going to take this laying down.

“This is a real team effort, and the Rural health Management service to take the practice management side on at such short notice is just a marvellous result.

“We weren’t fighting for my job or Carmen’s job, we were fighting for our patients and we couldn’t have asked for anything better than this sustainable plan moving forward.

“We are just over the moon.”

Mr Katter said that the Federal Minister for Health had committed to working together with the local community in the far north, and with the State Government on a providing a long-term solution that would ensure towns like Cardwell are always equipped with medical services.

Dress to impress on Art Deco Day in Innisfail

ART

Deco Day in Innisfail is on Friday, September 15, which will provide a fantastic opportunity for everyone to dress up in Art Deco style as part of the Historical Society's Tropical Art Deco Festival, held from September 13 - 17.

"We'd love to see businesses in the Innisfail CBD decorate their windows and have their staff dress up in Art Deco style for the day, on the Friday of the festival," said Historical Society President Trish Ernst.

Community members coming into town that day can dress up too, just for fun, to get into the festival's spirit.

You do not need a special event to dress up. However, there will be loads of opportunities at dedicated festival events.

These events include the Historical Cemetery Walk, river cruises, the High Tea and Fashion Parade, Champagne Mystery Movie, Doggy Deco Brunch, Vintage Market, and the fantastic Roaring 20s Basket Cabaret.

Download the online 2023 event program via www. innisfailhistory.com.au/about-6 or the Tropical Art Deco Facebook page.

Tickets for the High Tea and Roaring 20s Basket Cabaret are on sale through the Try Booking website, Facebook and click the direct link to secure your place so you do not miss out.

"We have a real opportunity to grow our festival into a destination tourism event to benefit the whole

community, but we can only do this with community participation and support. Besides that, it will be fun, so come and join us at our events and spread the word," Ms Ernst said.

Event organisers are putting a call out for local businesses and community members to dress up in their best 1920s style outfits for Art Deco Day on September 15.

1920s attire is all the rage for this year’s Tropical Art Deco Festival next month.

Cassowary Coast Regional Council voted on the 'Bring Back Cash' petition

CASSOWARY COAST ACTION NETWORK (CCAN)

FORTY residents attended the Cassowary Coast Regional Council (CCRC)'s Ordinary meeting on August 24 at the Civic Centre in Tully to hear their councillors' vote regarding the Cassowary Coast Bring Back Cash petition.

Cassowary Coast Action Network (CCAN) were pleased to see such community support, considering they had less than two days to get the message out to the public.

The agenda was finalised the week before but only publicly published on Monday, August 21.

Aaron Press, the Principal Petitioner, was disappointed CCRC had failed to contact him since submitting the petition on August 8 or give any notice the petition was set to hit the table at this month's meeting.

"Due to such short notice, I was unable to attend this most important meeting and as Principal Petitioner it was a hard pill to swallow. All the work the team has done, and this was the most crucial point," said Mr Press.

The CCAN team have since questioned the CCRC's policies and procedures regarding a submitted petition and the Council's obligation to inform the Principal Petitioner.

The CCRC has since written an

apology to CCAN for the lack of contact from the CCRC since the submission day.

People gathered to support CCAN, bringing their corflute signs in the hope their elected Councillors would pay attention, especially after the extremely successful event in June.

This event was supported by guest speakers, Federal MP Hon Bob Katter and State MP Shane Knuth. They signed the petition and guaranteed to write recommendation letters to CCRC to listen to their constituents.

"With an election set for March 2024, it would be wise for councillors to pay attention and listen to the people because this petition has so much attention and support," said Tara Garozzo, who appeared last month on Sky Breakfast News with Bob Katter after the local event.

The Bring Back Cash petition gained over 5,500 signatures, and more than 14% of the Cassowary Coast population had put pen to paper and signed. Still, this detail was left untold at Thursday's meeting.

"CCRC has stated cashless began because only 9% of residents used cash as a payment method.

Almost 15% of our region said they wanted cash as a payment option, and many were still unaware of our petition.

We did our best to get the message out there, but it is a real struggle when

we all have busy lives ourselves," said Mr Press.

The public were hopeful this would be enough, considering Cairns Regional Council recently overturned their CEO's decision to go cashless with just 4,980 signatures.

However, Thursday's meeting brought an outcry from attendees when councillors voted 5:2 in favour of the CEO's recent amendments of free photocopying for concession card holders, which was discussed at the previous meeting in July, with some Councillor's absent. It was believed to have solved the residents' concerns. "They seem to be completely out of tune to what we, the undersigned, had requested," Ms Garozzo said.

After the July meeting, CCRC posted a statement on their Facebook page announcing free photocopying and made the statement sound like they had reinstated cash.

Many people contacted CCAN, including the media, to congratulate them on a win for their community, only to be told it was just a cleverly worded statement by CCRC.

The only two councillors who supported the signatures on the petition and could not vote in favour of the CEO's amendments were Cr Millwood and Cr Pervan, and CCAN believes these councillors will be well supported in 2024.

Cr Millwood stated, "The community has told me they want to pay cash at the Council."

Cr Pervan stated his reason for not voting in favour of the CEO's amendments was "I do not believe in cashless societies."

CCRC CEO Andrew Graffen has stated that "this is not about cashless societies, nor is the CCRC promoting that."

Cr Barnes stated, "I think the word cashless has been thrown around, it's not really cashless. It was in the beginning when we started to talk about it, but it has been amended. We are not cashless; we are three quarters cashless."

CCAN believed from the very start this was, in fact, about cashless societies, and Cr Barnes confirmed that.

"CCAN wished to thank all who supported in one way or another to put the CCRC's brakes on turning the Cassowary Coast into a total cashless society."

"If we had done nothing, their agenda would have gone through with no push back, but thanks to the many who supported and signed, we believe it is enough to make them think twice."

"Shall anything change in the meantime, CCAN will be stepping up again and we are currently sourcing further advice to see if we have any further grounds to stand on."

The signs placed by residents at the Council offices in Tully were quite clear.

The Cassowary Coast Bring Back Cash petition which received over 5,000 signatures.

WEATHER

Can we trust the food we’re eating?

UNSW

FROM counterfeit ingredients to misleading labels, food fraud compromises the authenticity and safety of the food we consume.

When you think of fake products, you’d be forgiven for not having food items like honey at the top of your list.

Food fraud is a lucrative industry selling fake or misleading food products to consumers – and it’s on the rise. From meat and seafood to dairy – not even herbs are safe from food fraud.

Food fraud costs the Australian economy $3 billion every year, according to a report from AgriFutures Australia. Veal, wine, fish, and molluscs were identified as high-risk categories, with an estimated combined economic cost of between $700 million and $1.3 billion a year alone.

As the food and beverage supply chain become increasingly globalised, geopolitical and environmental factors put increasing pressure on the availability of raw ingredients – creating more opportunities for fraudsters to get away with it.

Food microbiologist, Associate Professor Julian Cox from UNSW School of Chemical Engineering, says the practice not only

tarnishes consumer trust but it can pose as a food safety risk too like when harmful chemicals were found in baby formula.

“Consumers are left in the dark when producers substitute ingredients that could potentially cause adverse health reactions,” he says.

“Whether it’s buying honey or olive oil at the supermarket or going to a high-end

restaurant and ordering expensive wagyu steak, as consumers, we expect to get what we pay for. It’s hard, or even impossible, for the consumer to know what is real and what is fake.

“And typically, we don’t question the product we’re buying because we put trust in something as fundamental as the food supply chain.”

Psalm 25:4-5

Spiritual food with Jess

Worthy of the Name

A Christian is someone whose behaviour and heart reflects Jesus Christ.

Everything about us in everyday should shout Jesus.

From our physical presence to our character, our thoughts, our emotions and even the words we speak.

Whoever claims to live in him must live as Jesus did.

1 John 2:6 NIV

When you read the scriptures about being Christ like, do you put into action what it says?

Yes sure,

Many can read the scriptures and quote verses. Simply quoting and reading scripture and attending church does not make you Christ like - A Christian.

Galatians 5 shows us how we ought to be as Christians living by the Spirit. Can we really call ourselves Christians if we are proclaiming the gospel publicly and behind closed doors we give into our flesh and feed our selfish desires, you cannot serve two masters.

“No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money.

Matthew 6:24 NIV

Then Jesus said to his disciples, “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me. For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will find it.

Matthew 16:24-25 NIV

You cannot hide from GodDo you deny yourself and take up your cross? Do you crucify your flesh?

Or do you feed it; do you satisfy its desires? Does your uncrucified flesh speak ungodly words? Does it display itself as uncontrolled emotions?

Are you worthy of the name Christian?

Regional Rainfall Report

Outrage as fishing industry cops another blow

ON BEHALF OF SHANE KNUTH, HILL STATE MP

MEMBER for Hill Shane Knuth said he was not surprised at the anger directed towards the Queensland Government's "gutless" action after announcing the latest ban on Gillnet Fishing along Queensland's East Coast.

Attending a Seafood Rally at Parliament House yesterday with fellow KAP MPs Robbie Katter and Nick Dametto, Knuth agreed the government needed to show some guts and stand up to international agencies such as UNESCO and the WWF.

"What's the point in having a Minister oversee the fishery portfolio, if they will always meekly surrender to overseas organisations who fly in for a few days and demand the closure of gillnet fishing without understanding or consulting those in the industry," Mr Knuth said.

He said Queensland already had one of the most tightly regulated fisheries in the world, going through more than 30 years of complex reform to ensure sustainable practices within the industry.

"They have never ever gillnetted the Great Barrier Reef and are not even close to it," Mr Knuth said.

Mr Knuth said the decision to phase out gillnet fishing along Queensland's east-coast by mid-2027 needs to be better informed and will devastate

many generational, family-owned fishing businesses and those along the food chain who rely on freshly caught seafood.

"Forget going to a fish 'n' chip shop or restaurant expecting to eat fresh, wild caught Queensland seafood in the near future," he said.

"We will be eating imported seafood instead."

Mr Knuth said this was another severe blow to the industry, hot on the heels of the majority closure of the Spanish

Mackerel fishery by Queensland Fisheries, devastating the industry.

"There is no doubt that Queensland Fisheries are responsible for this debacle. Either they have mis-managed the Spanish Mackerel industry since 2004 or the recent changes to the way fish stocks are measured is flawed. There is no other explanation," he said.

Mr Knuth said the latest announcement of the formation of the Future Fisheries Taskforce is another slap in the face to Queensland fishermen.

"There is not one single representative from the seafood industry on this

taskforce. It is stacked with a former WWF official, Queensland Fisheries, Treasury, DES and departments of the Premier and Cabinet.

"This taskforce is making decisions that affect the long-term future of the fishery industry and people's livelihoods across the state, without any representation from those in the industry.

"How on earth can the seafood industry get a balanced and unbiased plan for the sustainable future of the fishery?

"It's an absolute stitch up."

Cassowary Coast Regional Council is excited to announce the release of the Draft Economic Development Strategy 2023-2033 – Growing Stronger Together

The Strategy acknowledges the value of our established industries and seeks to support their growth, while also promoting sustainable diversification both within and beyond these industries

The Strategy outlines goals and initiatives that help guide the future economic development efforts of the region

Sustainable

&

Council is inviting community members, business owners and other stakeholders in the region to share feedback on the Draft Economic Development Strategy 2023-2033 All feedback provided will support the Council to refine and finalise the Economic Development Strategy 2023-2033

For more information, please visit Council’s Yoursay site cutt ly/EconomicDevelopment or scan the QR Code

Member of Hill Shane Knuth speaking to protesters at the Seafood Rally out the front of Parliament House.

Protestors at the Seafood Rally out the front of Parliament House.

WET TROPIC

Times

No time to fight?

SARI RUSSO

HAWAII was an agricultural farming area. In the early 1800s, the Sandalwood trade rose, causing famine due to the focus on resourcing the Sandalwood trade instead of agriculture. Sandalwood trade then declined, and the Whaling trade came to the fore. Then, it declined due to the civil war in America and the rise in the petroleum industry. After these industries declined, in the early 1900s, the area went into sugar production and the farming areas then got taken over by companies that came to be nicknamed the Big Five.

“Five firms Castle & Cooke, Alexander & Baldwin, C. Brewer & Co., Theo. Davies & Co., and American Factors came to dominate the sugar industry. Originally established to provide financial, labor recruiting, transportation, and marketing services to plantations, they gradually acquired the plantations and also gained control over other vital industries such as banking, insurance, retailing, and shipping. By 1933, their plantations produced 96 percent of the sugar crop. The Big Fives dominance would continue until the rise of the tourism industry and statehood induced U.S. and foreign firms to enter Hawaiis markets.” The Economic History of Hawai’i: A Short Introduction, Sumner J. La Croix, Department of Economics, University of Hawai I, East-West Center, January 9, 2002.

When I learnt that Hawaii became a tourist destination to counter the dominance of the Big Five, I considered the current push to have tourism become a dominant market in our farming area, particularly as I see our independent commercial farming and fishery industries on the decline.

I was recently informed that I was making a bold statement when I stated that I thought every decision made to regulate rural areas for the last forty-odd years has systematically destroyed the independent business owners in place of larger enterprises.

When reading about Hawaii and the takeover of the farming areas by big corporations who then seeped into all other commercial areas in the region, causing hardship to the original inhabitants, it showcased that too much power in too few hands does nothing but cause damage to the community.

Is the same thing happening in our area? If we are heading down a different path and have learnt from history, then why are there fewer independent farmers now than previously? Why are there fewer independent commercial fishers?

Why is there now more focus on bringing tourism to our areas than conducting a cost-benefit analysis for independent commercial fishers and farmers? Who in the Australian government is ensuring protection for rural industries? Who is ensuring they can make a profit after covering their costs? Who is ensuring that big corporations can’t make offers that undervalue the labour of our farmers or fishers?

How can we fight back if decisions that don’t support the ‘little guy’ are made?

Where do we get our power if the Australian Government isn’t making decisions that fight for the benefit of all members of an industry?

We need to stand together and fight for our local industries regardless of whether we have time or not, as it matters.

August 2023 Flying Fox Update for the Hinchinbrook Shire

HINCHINBROOK SHIRE COUNCIL

BREEDING season for both Black and Grey-Headed Flying Foxes is imminent and may extend up until Christmas.

Despite the lack of greater flying fox influxes Ingham has received this year, other local government areas have not been so fortunate.

Council is committed to the sustained daily inspections undertaken by staff and where necessary, the ongoing dispersal of flying foxes from the urban footprint to deter these animals from roosting in undesirable locations.

This is a reminder to the community that operations will remain ongoing between 4.30 am and 7.30 am each morning as part of Council’s Flying Fox Management Program. It is recommended that all pets are secured during operation times.

Residents are urged to contact Council to report any flying foxes seen ‘roosting’ in undesirable locations, particularly during the day, to allow staff to keep abreast of any new potential locations that are not currently part of the program. Council officers will provide advice and assistance to residents within roosting zones as resources and relevant guidelines allow.

Although current requirements for dispersals at this time are limited, this can change quickly.

Private landowners are reminded that if flying foxes land in your trees, you are permitted to dissuade them from staying by use of non-destructive disturbance techniques including sprinklers, visual deterrents such as imitation predators, bright lights, and noise from various commercial and improvised products.

Please do not attempt to touch flying foxes with bare hands.

For further information, please contact Council’s Natural Assets Team on 4776 4740.

White Bean and Garlic Soup

Serves: 6

Prep time: 15 minutes

Cook time: 40 minutes

2 serves per portion

Ingredients

3 x 400g cans cannellini or lima beans, drained and rinsed

300mL water

10 sage leaves or 3 teaspoons dried sage

6 cloves garlic, peeled

1 tablespoon olive oil

6 shallots, chopped

1L vegetable stock, salt reduced

1 bunch silverbeet or 200g spinach leaves, chopped into 2cm strips

½ teaspoon black pepper

Lemon wedges, to serve

Parmesan cheese, shaved, to serve

Method

PLACE beans in a large pot.

ADD water, sage and garlic cloves and bring to the boil.

REDUCE heat to very low and simmer for 10 minutes to allow flavours to develop. Set aside half of the beans in a bowl.

HEAT oil in frypan over medium heat. Add shallots, stirring until golden brown and tender, about 10-15 minutes.

BLEND together half the beans, caramelised shallots and 500mL of vegetable stock using a stick blender until smooth and creamy.

ADD the puree to the remaining beans in the pot. ADD remaining stock and greens. Simmer soup until the greens are tender, about 5 minutes. SERVE with black pepper, lemon and shaved parmesan.

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/.

August 2023 General Meeting Update, August 2023 Flying Fox Update and Last Minute Calls for Entries for 45th Hinchinbrook Art Awards

August 2023 General Meeting

Update

At Council's General Meeting held on Tuesday 29 August 2023, Council:

• Adopted the Privacy and Confidential Information Policy; and

• Endorsed the Privacy and Confidential Information Procedure and Privacy Statement.

The Privacy and Confidential Information Procedure and Privacy Statement set out Council’s position and principles in relation to the management of personal information as required by the Information Privacy Act 2009 and the management of confidential information as required by the Local Government Act 2009. Other updates from the General Meeting include:

• The approval to become a Party to the Native Title Claim in relation to the Manbarra People Determination.

The Native Title Determination Application Claim covers an area of 5,498km2 within our Shire.

Areas within this claim area currently within the Hinchinbrook Shire are Pelorus Island, Orpheus Island, Bramble Reef, Trunk Reef, Rib Reef, Pith Reef and Kelso Reef. These locations are used by locals and tourists for fishing,

camping and recreational boating activities. It is also recognised that Orpheus Island is a main branding site for the Hinchinbrook Shire as a tourist destination.

To read the full agenda and minutes, please visit Council’s Website, Meeting and Minutes page.

Pricey's Thank You Tour

Pricey and the Triple M Roadies broadcasted live from Rotary Park on Friday 25 August 2023 as part of Pricey's Thank You Tour.

Residents who attended signed his virtual thank you card and went in the draw to win $10,000 AND a $500 Harvey Norman gift card, all thanks to Optus! Plus there were giveaways galore from JK's Deli and Coppin A Coffee.

Thank you Pricey for your service and dedication.

Have Your Say - September School Holiday Movies Results

Thank you to the 39 residents that assisted with providing ideas on possible movies to bring back to the JL Kelly Theatre over the 2023 September school holidays in addition to Council's September Mega Movie Weekend.

Residents were asked to submit their feedback via a survey which closed on Wednesday 23 August 2023.

Current Procurement and Tender Opportunities

Keep up to date with opportunities available through Council by visiting the Current Procurement and Tender Opportunities page on Council’s website.

Current opportunities include:

• HSC 23/14 - Kerb and Channel Renewal WorksCockrell Street Ingham

Tender closes 2.00pm Monday 18 September 2023. Should you require further information, please contact Council’s Procurement Services on 4776 4665.

E A R E H I R I N G Works Team Leader

An announcement regarding the movies that will be available at the theatre during September will be made in the near future.

Follow the JL Kelly Theatre Ingham Facebook page for the latest updates.

August 2023 Flying Fox Update

Breeding season for both Black and Grey-Headed Flying Foxes is imminent and may extend up until Christmas.

Despite the lack of greater flying fox influxes Ingham has received this year, other local government areas have not been so fortunate.

Council is committed to the sustained daily inspections undertaken by staff and where necessary, the ongoing dispersal of flying foxes from the urban footprint to deter these animals from roosting in undesirable locations.

This is a reminder to the community that operations will remain ongoing between 4.30am and 7.30am each morning as part of Council’s Flying Fox Management Program. It is recommended that all pets are secured during operation times.

Residents are urged to contact Council to report any flying foxes seen ‘roosting’ in undesirable locations, particularly during the day, to allow staff to keep abreast of any new potential

locations that are not currently part of the program.

Council officers will provide advice and assistance to residents within roosting zones as resources and relevant guidelines allow.

Although current requirements for dispersals at this time are limited, this can change quickly.

Private landowners are reminded that if flying foxes land in your trees, you are permitted to dissuade them from staying by use of non-destructive disturbance techniques including sprinklers, visual deterrents such as imitation predators, bright lights, and noise from various commercial and improvised products.

Please do not attempt to touch flying foxes with bare hands. For further information, please contact Council’s Natural Assets Team on 4776 4740.

Last Minute Calls for Entries for 45th Hinchinbrook Art Awards

Hinchinbrook Shire Council invites artists from local, regional, and national arenas to enter the 45th Hinchinbrook Art Awards to be hosted at the TYTO Regional Art Gallery. This signature event attracts a broad selection of submissions from artists nationwide, celebrating the best in current practices across several media.

The Awards are an excellent platform for both emerging and established artists to showcase their work.

Artworks can be entered into the following sections:

• Painting (2D);

• Water Colour;

• Mixed Media;

• Digital Media;

• Works on Paper;

• Photography;

• Ceramics; and

• Sculptural Form. All entries will be automatically entered into the following categories:

• Open Award Acquisitive;

• Local Artist Award (Hinchinbrook Shire residents only);

• People’s Choice Award;

• Indigenous Artist Award; and

• Youth Award (For artists 18 years and under at the date of opening night).

Entries close 4.00pm Thursday 31 August 2023.

All entrants are required to attend the Exhibition Opening Night on Friday 8 December 2023, or send a representative on their behalf.

For further information or to download an Entry Form and Terms and Conditions, please visit the TYTO Regional Art Gallery website, Art Awards page

Electronic Rate Notices

Electronic Rate Notices have now been issued. If your notice does not appear in your inbox, please check your junk folder.

If you have opted to receive your Rate Notice electronically and it is not in your inbox or junk folder, please contact Council’s Revenue Team.

Half Yearly Rate Notices

Half Yearly Rate Notices have now been issued with payment due by Saturday 30 September 2023.

Property owners are encouraged to check the details on their Rate Notices. A Schedule of Rates and Charges is also included with your notice.

Council encourages ratepayers who may have difficulty with making payment to discuss a payment plan with staff as soon as possible. Ratepayers also have access to assistance under Council’s Financial Hardship Policy. Council offers a variety of payment options including online, via telephone, mail or by visiting Council’s Main Office at 25 Lannercost Street Ingham.

Interest is charged on overdue rates at 11.64% per annum. Ratepayers may discuss a payment plan by contacting Council.

Do not forget if you pay on or before the due date and have no rates in arrears, you will go into the draw to win $2,000 to be spent locally at up to five Hinchinbrook Shire businesses of your choice. The winner will be drawn at Council’s General Meeting to be held on Tuesday 24 October 2023.

W

JCU medical students delivered the ‘Happy, Healthy Teddies’ program at C&K Innisfail Community Kindergarten and Preschool

BY TRACY DARVENIZA (JCU COLLEGE OF MEDICINE AND DENTISTRY)

A GROUP of dedicated James Cook University (JCU) medical students recently brought smiles, laughter, and important health lessons to the youngsters at C&K Innisfail Community Kindergarten and Preschool through the Happy Healthy Teddies program.

Year 6 medical students, Elne Bezuidenhout, Shannon Wong, and Jasmin Banwait, along with Year 4 students Ravi-Pascal Balasingam and Anthony Goweid, joined with Tracy Darveniza, JCU Clinical Support Training Officer, to create an engaging and educational experience for these young learners.

The Happy Healthy Teddies Program is a childfriendly initiative that aims to instil vital primary healthcare lessons from an early age.

JCU medical students visit childcare centres and primary schools in rural Queensland communities, offering a free and interactive health program designed to raise awareness and educate children about essential health practices.

This program was conceptualized by JCU medical student Mitee Parekh, who drew inspiration from the Teddy Bear Hospital program developed by the Ashintosh Foundation and University of Queensland.

As part of the program, JCU medical students volunteer their time during their placements at healthcare facilities in rural communities to run the Happy Healthy Teddies sessions.

The primary goal of the program is to foster positive relationships between healthcare professionals and young children.

By making health education interactive, engaging, and entertaining, the Happy Healthy Teddies program encourages children to embrace key health messages.

JCU medical students teach the importance of good nutrition, dental hygiene, regular exercise, and sun safety.

Tracy Darveniza, JCU Clinical Support Training Officer stated. "The Happy Healthy Teddies program not only imparts crucial health knowledge, but also helps JCU medical students engage with the local community.”

“It is heartening to witness the positive impact they have on the children, fostering a lifelong appreciation for health and well-being."

The Happy Healthy Teddies program is made possible through the Rural Doctors Foundation Grants for Good Health stream, which provided funding for program materials.

This generous support ensures children in rural Queensland communities have access to educational and preventative health programs, empowering them with the knowledge to make informed decisions about their well-being.

The C&K Innisfail Community Kindergarten and Preschool staff and parents were thrilled with the Happy Healthy Teddies session.

"The program was informative, entertaining, and well-received by our children.”

“It is wonderful to see the dedication of the JCU medical students and the positive impact they have on our community," said Alison Whatling, C& K Teacher/ Director.

With initiatives, like the Happy Healthy Teddies program, JCU medical students are demonstrating their dedication to making a real difference in the communities they serve.

Their efforts inspire hope and promote a brighter future for the children of rural Queensland.

A Year 6 JCU medical student used a stethoscope on one of the children.

Tracy Darveniza, JCU Clinical Support Training Officer (far right) with JCU Year 6 medical students at the C&K Innisfail Community Kindergarten and Preschool.

Tracy Darveniza and Year 6 JCU medical students with children at the C&K Innisfail Community Kindergarten and Preschool.

Local students explored job opportunities at the fourth Cassowary Coast Careers Day

STORY AND PHOTOS BY MARIA GIRGENTI

IN Term 2, the fourth annual Cassowary Coast Careers Day occurred at Innisfail State College’s D Block.

This event, a collaboration between Department of Education Transition Pathways Officer Lisa Sue San and Cassowary Coast Regional Council, saw over 500 Year 9 - 12 students from Innisfail State College, Good Counsel College, Tully State High School, Babinda State School, in attendance as well as job seekers.

This year’s event grew in popularity with close to 50 stall holders featuring local businesses/organisations, with many others on a waiting list to come on board.

Bradken and Queensland Health, actively looking to recruit locals in engineering, nursing and midwifery, approached the College to participate.

Stalls offered study and recruitment information, career pathways, and employment opportunities in a broad and diverse range of industries, which included mining, local government, agricultural, disability employment and NDIS providers, health/medical, traineeships/apprenticeships, and childcare.

Cassowary Coast Regional Council

staff provided information on employment in many facets of local government, such as People and Culture, Building and Planning, Water, Mechanical Maintenance, Parks and Gardens and the Youth Advisory Committee.

Representatives from Queensland Health had practical displays information. They discussed employment opportunities with students interested in nursing, midwifery, and mental health/ ATODS.

Students could discuss potential career paths with representatives from the Defence Force, Queensland Fire and Rescue Service, Queensland Police Service, Surf Lifesaving North Queensland, Innisfail Hospital, Endeavour Foundation, PCYC Innisfail,

Canegrowers Innisfail, Wilmar Sugar, MSF Sugar, Tropical Vets, Bunnings, Bradken, Seafarms, Goodstart Early Learning Charles Street and Mourilyan Road, Department of Children, Youth Justice and Multicultural Affairs, Department of Employment and Small Business, TAFE Queensland, as well as James Cook and Central Queensland Universities.

Students who visited the Bradken stall could enter their names to win a prize on the day.

Congratulations to the lucky winners Gian, Jamie, Neekhia and Emily, who

were presented with their prizes during assembly by Bradken Regional Sales Manager, Mr Adriano Favero.

Skye Barba won the Yeti water bottle, courtesy of Cassowary Coast Regional Council.

ISC wishes to thank all vendors, businesses and the Careers Day team of Serene, Kira and Tylah (Cassowary Coast Regional Council), Lisa (Cassowary Coast Transition Pathways Officer) and Connie (DP Senior Schooling ISC) who were involved in the coordination of this successful and educational event.

Innisfail State College students at the Queensland Police Service and PCYC Innisfail stall, manned by Senior PLO, Stacey Kneubuhler and Sergeant Michael Maguire.

Innisfail State College students get involved in a practical midwifery demonstration.

Tully State High School students, Brianna, Mikayla, and Lillie explore employment options in the health industry.

A Babinda High School student discussed defence force employment.

Around 50 vendors had information stalls at the Cassowary Coast Careers Day. Photo: ISC.

Greg Shannon

LAST week’s TVMG farm walk on the TSL Jenkins farm was a great success, thanks to all involved.

We will be running a similar event soon for anyone unable to attend because of off-farm work, so stay tuned.

One of the issues discussed on the day was rat management, with some interest around whether rats will attack the newer varieties as they do some of our commercial crops.

Rats are really starting to be a problem again, especially after the recent very wet July and early August, coming into warmer weather.

The two main types of rats that damage sugarcane are grass rats and climbing rats.

Both live in and around grassy areas like creek banks and edges of drains, around power poles and roadsides. They prefer these areas where they can be protected from predators like owls. Sugarcane, of course, is a giant grass, so managing rats is always a challenge.

After decades of research, it is well known that the female rat will start to breed after good wet weather coming into a warmer spring because there are a lot of weeds and grass-producing seeds that provide protein.

To manage rats, we use a range of strategies, including baiting.

The first natural step in any rat management is to

try to manage the harborage areas where they live where possible, like the edge of drains and tree lines, by keeping the grass low.

Then we also try to keep headlands clean and well slashed. The grass rat, in particular, doesn’t like being out in the open.

Another primary strategy is to keep grass and weeds out of the crop. Once weeds and grass start to flower and seed inside the crop, the rats will come in looking for the protein. Of course, once in the cane, they also prefer eating sweet sugar cane, so don’t leave.

Another major part of any rat management strategy is to bait to keep the numbers down.

We put bait stations on the edge of the crop so that rats crossing the headland will take the bait and go away to die.

We have two types of baits registered for sugar cane:

1. Racumin is a small block-type bait that must be eaten at least three times before the rat gets a lethal dose.

2. The other type of bait is called Ratoff, and it is a plastic bag full of grain seeds that have been coated with poison. A rat only needs to eat a few grains to go away and die.

When the research was done for Ratoff around twenty years ago with the old BSES, one of the things that had to be checked was if rats actually get to the grain seed because often the plastic bag looks unbroken.

We found back then that even though the bag looked intact, it wasn’t. The rats had, in fact, got to the grain and gone away to die.

Rats, like RSD, and Pachymetra, are always with us. There is no one way to manage them totally, but

by keeping headlands clean, keeping weeds out of the crop and baiting, we try to minimize the damage they do.

This all works for ground rats, in particular. Climbing rats, though, are becoming a real issue because they don’t take baits as easily. In the future, we still need more research into managing climbing rats.

For more information on rat management, please call 0400586968 or Peter Sutherland from TCPSL on 0429022702.

Mill sales show confidence in our industry

OWEN MENKEN CANEGROWERS CHAIRMAN

THE news that Bundaberg Sugar is up for sale surprised many within and outside the industry when it was revealed this month.

Not only is Bundaberg Sugar one of Australia’s best-known brand names, the company is also Queensland’s largest cane grower, in addition to being a miller and refiner of sugar.

After more than two decades at the helm, Belgianbased sugar company Finasucre has decided the time is right to put its major Australian asset on the market.

Finasucre’s decision should be seen as a sign of the strength and vitality of Queensland’s sugarcane industry and the international sugar market more generally.

And, if media reports are correct, it may also be a sign that outside investors are starting to sit up and take serious interest in the emerging opportunities within our industry.

According to the Australian Financial Review,

Tully Sugar Crushing Statistics

For week 13 ended 25/08/23

Finasucre received “inbound interest in the assets, understood to have come from those eyeing it as a source of green energy.”

Of course, these are only third-hand reports at present. With such a large market share of Australia’s domestic sugar sales, it’s hard to see Bundaberg Sugar moving away from sugar production any time soon, but options exist for complimentary processing investments.

However, the fact that investors are considering the purchase of an asset worth more than half a billion dollars to produce green energy shows how rapidly the industry is progressing towards becoming a powerhouse of the emerging bioeconomy.

News of the sale comes just weeks after the Queensland Government announced it would earmark more than 1000 hectares in Mackay to develop a biomanufacturing zone adjacent to Mackay Sugar’s Racecourse Mill.

The industry, led by CANEGROWERS, Sugar Research Australia, and the Australian Sugar Milling

South Johnstone Crushing Statistics

For week ended 27/08/2023

Council, launched the Sugar Plus roadmap in 2021, outlining the industry’s goal of diversifying into sustainable, value-adding products such as biofuels and green energy.

Since then, CANEGROWERS has been working with government and other industry stakeholders to make the road map a reality.

The interest in Bundaberg Sugar and the state government’s biomanufacturing announcement, among other developments, are signs that we are progressing.

With next year’s State Election coming into focus, CANEGROWERS will seek commitments from both sides of politics that they will partner with industry in a truly meaningful way, ensuring we have the resources and leadership necessary to build on these opportunities. In this way, we can see the industry grow and thrive for the benefit of everyone in the existing sugarcane supply chain and the broader Queensland community.

Wilmar Sugar Herbert region mills

For week 10 ended 26/08/23

Typical rat damage in sugar cane

RURAL

SIMON HOOD WILMAR MANAGER GROWER MARKETING

AFTER a period of relative calm, the sugar market has come to life with the focus on where the sugar is going to come from in the New Year.

Unofficial reports that India will be banning any sugar exports and the Thai crop continuing to suffer under a poor monsoon leaves Australia in the box seat.

The dream Brazilian harvest continues with weather, ATR and sugar mix combining to keep analysts revising up the final sugar tonnage. However, even with the record Brazilian

Sugar Prices Starting to

production, upwards of 39M tonnes factored in, our forecasts remain for a significant deficit for next year.

This will be the fourth year out of five that global supply and demand numbers indicate a reduction in world sugar stocks. Our pools are well positioned to take advantage of any further price rises in the #11 contract, while already having some favourable hedging in place to protect against the downside.

For users of the popular GMPRS pricing mechanism the Mar/May 24 futures pricing structure will benefit from any first quarter tightness. Hopefully this will provide some attractive pricing

Get Interesting

for the production risk proportion of this year’s crop.

The other contributor to the AUD sugar price rise has been the slide in the currency to a recent low of 63.65. This has seen the AUD break out of the wellestablished 66 – 68c trading range that has characterised much of this year’s trading.

Concern about Chinese economic growth, a turnaround in the interest rate differential – whereby US longer-term rates are higher than Aussie rates – and a weakening of our core commodity

export prices have conspired to turn sentiment against the AUD. The low last year was around 61.70 in October and many analysts are talking the AUD down.

Nevertheless, as is shown by the table below, in recent history, the AUD does not spend a lot of time below 65c. So even if #11 is to rise, the shine might be taken off prices if the AUD was to rally at the same time.

For any queries, please contact Herbert Grower Marketing Consultant Franco Zaini on 0419 476 770.

HERBERT district grower Michael Penna understands the importance of soil health.

Before he purchased his 50-hectare property at Helen's Hill, south of Ingham, he already had long-term experience growing potatoes and other crops. This came from previously owning an irrigated property north of Charters Towers, where he had developed a well-honed focus on improving soil conditions.

"With potatoes, all the value in your crop is under the ground, and they can be susceptible to disease," Michael said. "You can easily lose 50 percent of your yield to a disease issue, so maintaining soil health is critical."

So when he sold the Charters Towers property and moved to the Herbert district to start growing cane about three years ago, his top priority was getting advice on soil health and farming practices.

It was an entirely new crop for Michael, so he contacted the Herbert Cane Productivity Services Ltd (HCPSL) to seek advice on everything from weed control to varieties and nutrient management.

The assistance he received from HCPSL rapidly led him to get involved in a major on-the-ground project called Project CaNE.

The project is led by HCPSL and is funded through the partnership between the Australian Government's Reef Trust and the Great Barrier Reef Foundation and supported by TropWATER and DAF Queensland.

Michael said that he was keen to ensure his nutrient management was efficient and sustainable, which Project CaNE has helped him achieve as it provides tailored agronomic support and nutrient management solutions for individual growers.

"For me, it hasn't been about changing practices as I am a new grower," he said. "It has been about getting things right from the start and getting advice on additional things like mill mud and rotational crops.

"Fertiliser is expensive, so no one is over-

fertilising, but Project CaNE has helped me understand the right rates to apply and also the importance of placement with stool splitting."

"The other part of it is that the farm needed some attention to build its production."

He has already had a go with mill mud and used lime to improve pH. Michael also hit the ground running with legumes, having planted Sunn hemp at the end of his first year on the farm and then cowpea in 2022.

He plans to combine these legumes into a mixed species legume fallow in the future, putting them in around Christmas time and then knocking them back in before planting. He said using legumes appeared to impact the cane positively, and yields had been improving since he bought the farm. The legumes have also helped with weed control and allowed the use of selective herbicides to control grasses.

Michael added that his experience with other crops helped him approach growing sugarcane in a way where he wanted to learn as quickly as possible.

"Cane is like every other crop in that it is easy to grow but hard to grow well," he said. "HCPSL have been extremely helpful with that, giving practical and relevant information, assisting with a double-row planter for my seed plot, and running helpful information sessions.

"I've learnt a lot from them and speak highly of their support."

Even before moving to the Herbert, Michael had some incidental experience with sugarcane, having grown a small area of the crop on his Charters Towers property as part of a research trial with CSIRO in the mid-2000s. That trial wasn't a commercial crop and was primarily managed by the researchers involved. Nonetheless, Michael said it was a good entry into growing cane and something he still remembers today.

As the trial involved tissue culture, he remembered it as an efficient planting method and is now keen to use this method to source new varieties.

improved soil health a top priority

For example, he will be looking to source SRA40 as tissue culture next year, which he says will give him planting material for his farm for 2025. "Without tissue culture, I could be waiting until 2026 or 2027, so I like to have my options open," he said. "Every journey starts with a step, and tissue culture lets me start that journey a year or so sooner."

As for the future, Michael says the 2023 crop is looking very solid, and with the sugar price also positive, he is going to focus on making the farm more productive.

"The aim is to improve the farm rather than expanding," he said.

HCPSL's Graeme Holzberger, who is working with Michael on Project CaNE, said it was great to see both experienced growers and relatively new growers like Michael getting involved. "Project CaNE is striking a great mix with helping growers improve practices and productivity, while also lifting their overall sustainability," Graeme said.

*To view a video of Project CaNE, visit the HCPSL YouTube channel –https://www.youtube.com/@hcpsl

HCPSL GROWER SHED MEETINGS

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PUBLIC NOTICES

Tully Nursing Home Inc. Annual General Meeting

The Annual General Meeting of the Tully Nursing Home Inc. will be held in the Leisure Lounge of Tully Nursing Home on Wednesday 27th September 2023 at 7.00pm.

Management Committee Nomination forms are available from Tully Nursing Home and will need to be returned by 20th September.

Acquisition of Land Act 1967 TAKING OF LAND NOTICE BY THE MINISTER (No 07) 2023

Short title

1.This notice may be cited as the Taking of Land Notice by the Minister (No 07) 2023. Land taken [s.9(7) of the Act]

2. The land described in the Schedule is taken by Cassowary Coast Regional Council for sewerage purposes and purposes incidental thereto and vests in Cassowary Coast Regional Council for an estate in fee simple on and from 18 August 2023.

SCHEDULE

lnnifail Office Land Taken

Lot 1 on SP339056 (to be registered in the Titles Registry), area 180 m2, part of Title Reference 50685743.

Lot 2 on SP339056 (to be registered in the Titles Registry), area 42 m2, part of Title Reference 50685743.

Lot 3 on SP339057 (to be registered in the Titles Registry), area 14m2, part of Title Reference 50656535.

ENDNOTES

1. Made by the delegate of the Minister under Acquisition of Land (Ministerial) Delegation (No 1) 2021 on 11 August 2023.

2. Published in the Gazette on 18 August 2023.

3. Not required to be laid before the Legislative Assembly.

4. The administering agency is the Department of Resources.

5. File Reference 079/0038885.

In Memory of

GABRIEL SALVU DEBONO

I thank whatever gods may be For my unconquerable soul.

Antoni Arg os (Tu y)

BELOVED HUSBAND OF CHRISSIE (61 ½ YEARS ) FATHER OF EFFIE, HERCULES, MICHELE & GEORGE GRAND POP OF MORGAN & KRISTA

THANKS TO DOCTORS & NURSING STAFF OF THE TULLY HOSPITAL, AMBULANCE LADIES OF TULLY FATHER D TSAKAS, THE PARISH COMMUNITY OF THE DOMATION OF THEOTOKISOF INNISFAIL, THE NASHO’S, LADIES OF TULLY BOWLING CLUB, BLACK’S FUNERALS AND ALSO TO EVRYONE WHO SENT CONDOLENSES & SYMPATHY CARDS & FLOWERS. Thank you from e Arg os Family

DICKSON, Vivian (nee McMurray)

Late of Malanda, formerly of Tully. Passed away peacefully at Ozcare Malanda after a short illness, aged 77 years.

Wife of Bruce Dickson (dec). Cherished mother and mother-in-law of Eva, Richard, Stacey, Ben and Brett. Loved grammy of Isabella and Ava. Sister, aunty and cousin to many. As per Vivian’s wishes, a private cremation has been held.

Cards to: P.O. Box 1819, Atherton 4883.

August 31, 2023

No. 13049

Church times across the region

AOG / ACC /

Tully Family Church, 9am, Sun, 2 Watkins St, Tully Cardwell AOG, 9:30am Sun, Shire

Baptist Churches

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 Churches

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, 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

Bowls News

Innisfail Ladies Bowls

LAST Wednesday, two rounds of the Ladies Championship Triples were played.

Maisie Smith, Dell Steve and Dian Catelan had a clear-cut victory over Eileen Hamann, Ann Rule and Margaret Johnston 22 - 9.

Bev Anderson, Diana O’Brien and Jan Dunn played a cliff-hanger of a game, finally defeating Sue Morrison, Marilyn Allen and Joan Atkinson 19 - 16.

In a social game: Louise Hoskins, Vera Rowe and Catrina Cook defeated Helen Paterson, Kathy Hitchings and Carol Cash 26 - 8.

Next week, the semi-final of the Triples will be between Daphne Kirkman, Helen Paterson, Catrina Cook and Bev Anderson, Diana O’Brien, Jan Dunn.

Innisfail Ladies were pleased to receive great appreciation from all who attended the Bowls Club Centenary celebrations.

Ingham Ladies Bowls

SEMI finals of Ladies Consistency:

E. Piotto 155 v J. Craven 145, N. Evans 151 v A. Rutherford 151.

Social play:

Rd 1 - J. Johnson, R. Doherty, J. Fenoglio, A. Rutherford 10 v D. Gosney, B. Eddleston, K. Rotondo, E. Piotto 6.

D. Toomba, M. Spano, J. Casanovas, L. Melvin 20 v

I. Byrnes, A. Foti, M. Moore, S. Ryan 2. Rd 2 - skips only L. Melvin v E. Piotto 13/9 S. Ryan v A. Rutherford 14/1.

Ingham Bowls Club News

BAREFOOT bowls results for August 24:

Prize winning team with the lowest winning score and a spin of the wheel was H Hobbs, D Breo & J Dickerson 12 defeating T Cottell, L Perhouse, M Girgenti & P Dickerson 10

T Camenzuli, C Johnson, M Cole & A Di Bella def A Chitty, D Tomba, A Foti & J Piotto 12-8

J Johnson, A Johnson, D Gosney & S Richards def R Sutherland, D Chappell, J Lone & S Cotton 14-13

Men’s pairs results for August 25:

G Brierley & R Cantatore def R Sutherland & R Peterson 26-13

A Johnson & J Eddleston def P Reyland & G Byrnes 18 - 15

G Durcey & T George def M Girgenti & S Cotton 25-12

J Harrop 7 P Herman drew with T Manson & T Koop 15-15

Prize winning team of social bowls played on the 27th of Aug was: A Foti, K Walker & P Herman defeating D Gosney, J Eddleston & J Piotto 27-7 (21 points to 6)

G Durcey, R Basaglia & E Piotto def T Arkink, J Craven & R Cantatore 29-10 (19 points to 7)

D Tomba, M Bube & A Torielli def M Cole, J Holmes & A Di Bella 23-14 (16 points to 10)

A Johnson, B Eddleston & T Koop def J Johnson, D Horsley & L Mahon 21-16 (16 points to 10)

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

Barefoot bowls played between 6 pm – 8 pm

Names into the club by 5:30 pm

Men’s Pairs played on Friday at 2:15 pm

Names on the board by 1:45 pm

P Herman on Duty for September 1.

Mixed social bowls played every Sunday at 1:30 pm.

Names on the board by 12:30 pm

On roster for September 3.

Bar: C Johnson

Social Selector: A Torielli

Tully Bowls

SUNDAY, August 27:

Lovely to see 28 Bowlers enjoy 2 Games of 10 Ends on a beautiful day.

Team 1 Ray Downing/Lou Brunello (7) v Team 2 Des Roberts/Jason Harrop (11)

Team 3 Rita Pezzutto/Gabbie Stumbles/Mary Bacic (3) v Team 4 Robyn Brunello/Joy Pears/Ian Revie (14)

Team 5 Rod Tennant/Bev Harrop/ Donte (14) v Team 6 Darryl Stumbles/Pauline Edwards/Andrew Greig (17)

Team 7 Peter Smith/Joan Mercer/Rita Hudson (6) v Team 8 Rod Bradley/Toni Buick/Jacob Stumbles (11)

Team 9 Joanne Townsend/Val Bradley/Colleen Tennant (17) v Team 10 Angus Greig/Lyn Newland/ Kobi Schwartz (8)

After Smoko

Team 1 (7) v Team 2 (7).

Team 3 (15) v Team 5 (7).

Team 4 (10) v Team 6 (4).

Team 7 (11) v Team 9 (10).

Team 8 (15) v Team10 (5).

Winning Team Robyn Brunello /Joy Pears/Ian Revie. Club Championship Mixed Pairs

John Taylor/Rita Pezzutto defeated Jason Harrop/ Judy Hood

Ray Downing/Joanne Townsend defeated Rod Bradley/Val Bradley

Ray Downing/Joanne Townsend defeated Robyn Brunello/Lou Brunello

Ray Downing and JoanneTownsend to play John Taylor and Rita Pezzutto in the finals.

We were privileged to have Jan Baumann (Coach from TFNQ) and Dareyle Hester (Umpire) come to our club on Tuesday, August 22.

Jan showed us exercises to practice our skills and Dareyle refreshed us on the etiquette and rules of bowls. Several Members and some visitors really enjoyed the morning.

Thanks Jan and Dareyle for your time and patience.

Jack attack is going really well on Thursday nights and our Trivia Night was a hit with all who attended. Many thanks to the organisers!

Innisfail Men’s Bowls

THE winning team at Thursday’s social bowls on August 17 was Gordon Goes, Greg McDonald, Clem Kinbacher and Kevin Bliss.

New members and visitors are most welcome with names to be in by 12.30 pm for a 1.00 pm start.

Congratulations to the Innisfail Bowls Club Centenary celebration committee for an outstandingly successful weekend of functions.

As part of the celebrations, Innisfail Bowls Club hosted the Club-selected Mixed Triples, where 30 bowlers played one game of 14 ends with prize money awarded to the winners and runners up.

Winners on the day was the team of Gordon Goes, Marilyn Allen and David Cook, with Bev Anderson, David Irwin and Sam Micale as runners up.

Innisfail Ladies who played in the Championship Triples last Wednesday.

Innisfail Ladies who played social bowls last Wednesday.

Innisfail Ladies who played in last Wednesday’s Championship Triples competition.

Bowlers who played in the men’s social bowls on August 17.

Bowlers who played in Innisfail’s Bowls Club’s Centenary Mixed Triples on August 20.

IBC Ladies’ President, Helen Paterson (far right) presented prize money to the winning team of David Cook, Marilyn Allen and Gordon Goes in IBC’s Centenary Mixed Triples.

Helen Paterson (far right) with Sam Micale, Bev Anderson and David Irwin who finished as runners up.

Shane Muriata

WITH the 2023 National Rugby League season finally coming closer to the big shiny trophy, we start to look at what teams will be contenders and which ones will be pretenders.

So far, every Tom, Dick and Harry has had an opinion on who will be the main attraction in the post-season games, with names such as Cleary, Reynolds, Johnson and Munster headlining every topic of discussion.

I am here to tell you straight: Those pretty boys won't determine their team's destiny. The power and hopes will lie with four of the best number ones of the modern era.

None of them will ever surpass the great Billy Slater, but these dudes are bonafide superstars and will have a say in who wins and who loses.

First off the rank is the defending premiers, the Penrith

Panthers fullback and reigning Clive Churchill Medal winner Dylan Edwards: For the last two years, he has been the best and most underrated player in a star-studded team. If he fires in this finals series, the Mountain Men will go a long way to making it a three-peat.

Kalyn Ponga: With the Newcastle Knights winning eight straight games and riding a massive wave of form heading into the playoffs. The man leading from the front is KP. When he missed the Origin series this year due to numerous head knocks, we all thought this could be his end. Fast forward two months, Ponga has dodged an Origin hangover and taken himself to another level. If the Nocastrians are to go deep into the September games, KP will take them.

James Tedesco: After being the Green and Gold Fullback for several years, this season

Golf News

Innisfail Golf Club

IGC GROUNDS crew have the course looking mint, whilst the greens team have been busy ensuring the greens surfaces are in top shape for upcoming events.

Last week’s Quiz Craig hits his tee shot off the first tee towards OOB. Craig hits another ball but fails to call it a provisional.

What is the ruling?

A. Craig can choose whichever ball he wants.

B. Craig must continue with the original ball.

C. Craig must abandon the original ball and continue play with the second ball.

Answer: C. If a player does not announce they are playing a provisional ball and plays a ball from where the previous stroke was made, that ball is the player’s ball in play under penalty of stroke and distance. Rule 18.3b.

This week’s Quiz

Norm is ready to putt on the 4th green. Norm takes a

will likely be his last ride into the sunset. His form in Origin was crap, and his Roosters are not as good, but write him off at your peril. I believe Teddy has one more trick as the old dog in this company of stars. Prove me wrong, Teddy.

Reece Walsh: If there was ever a breakout season for a player in 2023, then Walsh has had it. Before the Origin series, he was virtually unknown. Now, just six months into the season, Reece 'Lightning' has looked more likely to be the one to replace Teddy for the green and gold Kangaroos jersey as the new number one, and taking over as the best custodian in the NRL. He has more try assists, running metres and tries scored than any other number ones in the game, and he isn't finished yet. This year, his State Of Origin series announced his arrival, with coach Slater stating

that he could be a Maroon for at least ten years if he wanted to. In his last test, we will see his true form. It will separate the professionals from the amateurs, and if he is to rise, then the 2023 NRL Finals will be his time to shine.

All four Fullbacks have reminded us how rich and flourishing our game is at the moment of producing such talent, and this is across the board in all areas of the game— Well done to all the officials across our great region for your contribution.

Thank you to the Herbert River Rugby League Clubs, Tully Tigers Football Club, Innisfil Rugby League Club and

the Babinda Rugby League Club for making 2023 an incredible season for all the Junior League players, parents, supporters, sponsors, Officials and fans of footy.

North Queensland is truly the home of Rugby League. Thank you for making it the greatest game of all.

A special message to my awesome, talented niece Tamzin Muriata: Good luck at the awards night in Cairns and congratulations on your nominee as Player of the Year in the Women's League. I wish you nothing but the best.

practise swing close to the ball and causes his ball to move closer to the hole.

What is the ruling?

A. No penalty and the ball must be replaced on its original spot.

B. The movement of the ball counts as a stroke and the ball must be played from its new position.

C. Norm receives a one stroke penalty and must replace the ball on its original spot.

Caine Cockle got the putter working and snuck into the lead on the last hole in Wednesday’s All Sporters competition on August 16.

Results

1st: Caine Cockle 24pts

2nd: Allan Gould 23pts c/b

3rd: Ian Street 23pts

NTP - Allan Gould

The Over 55s put on a good show in Friday’s Sporters

competition on August 18 to claim all three places and Ian Saunderson just got the win on countback.

Results

1st: Ian Saunderson 17pts c/b

2nd: John Lombardi 17pts c/b

3rd: Craig Alman 17pts c/b

NTP - Marc Di Carlo

On August 19, the Drummond Golf Cairns Monthly Medal Under 55s and Over 55s went head-to-head again to earn entry into the Medal of Medal Finals.

This was the first Saturday competition in six months that was not lift clean and place.

The morning groups got underway in glorious sunshine, but slightly chilly conditions.

Darren Ritchie warmed up quickly posting a great round of

72, 69 nett, leading the Unders and Overs.

Peter Stenzel and John Slater tied for the Over 55s on 74 nett.

With a smaller afternoon field, it was a battle on the course. John Lombardi seems to enjoy playing for the extra prizes on offer during the Monthly Medal.

After missing the win in Friday’s competition, Lombardi shot to the Over 55s lead with an impressive 71 nett. Darren Ritchie has now qualified for the Medal of Medals next year.

Results

Under 55s

1st: Darren Ritchie 68 nett

2nd: Allan Gould 71 nett

3rd: Marc Di Carlo 73 nett c/b

Over 55s

Results

1st: John Lombardi 71 nett

2nd: Peter Stenzel 74 nett c/b

3rd: John Slater 74 nett c/b

NTPs

1/10 - Des Hensler, 4/13Vaughan Smith, 7/16 - Barry Scott

2/11 - Paul Tattam, 5/14 - Colin Bidgood 8/17 - E Nest

3/12 - Des Hensler, 6/15 - Paul Tattam, 9/18 - L King/John Slater

Upcoming events

Wednesday All Sporters competition - from 12.00 pm and 3.00 pm

Friday Sporters competition - from 12.00 pm and 2.00 pmonline bookings

Caine Cockle, winner of Wednesday’s All Sporters competition on August 16.

Ian Saunderson, winner of Friday’s Sporters competition on August 18.

Darren Ritchie, Under 55s winner in the Monthly Medal on August 19.

John Lombardi, Over 55s winner in the Monthly Medal on August 19.

Dylan Edwards Kalyn Ponga

Reece Walsh

Tully Tigers’ Under 18 team season has ended after a loss to Atherton

STORY AND PHOTOS BY MARIA GIRGENTI

LAST Saturday, the Tully Tigers Under 18 team had their finals dreams dashed after a 28 - 12 loss to Atherton in the major semi-final at Barlow Park, Cairns. A strong contingent of vocal Tully supporters made the trip north to cheer on their home team in the major semifinal.

As Tully has bowed out, Atherton face Kangaroos in the preliminary final, with the winner set for a grand final showdown with Mareeba next Saturday.

Tully’s try scorers: Ben Roebuck and Jayvee Field. Goals: Cohen Emmi 2.

All finals hopes now rest with Innisfail, whose Reserve and A-Grade senior men’s teams registered wins and, after earning this week off, progress to the FNQRL grand final on September 9.

Innisfail’s A-Grade team silenced Ivanhoe Knights with a 33 - 14 win and now play the winner of this Saturday’s preliminary final between defending champions, Cairns Brothers and Ivanhoe Knights in the grand-final on September 9.

Innisfail’s try scorers: Jason Hallie, Devante Heron, Tyreyce Chambers, James Clark and Abraham Waireg-Ingui.

Goals: Michael Morton 5, 1 penalty goal and 1 one-point field goal. In the Reserve-Grade major semifinal, Innisfail had a thrilling two-point victory over Kangaroos and will face the winner of Cairns Brothers and Kangaroos in this Saturday’s preliminary final.

Innisfail’s try scorers: Colby Aldridge,

Jayden Rudken, Starrison Whaleboat and Simon Asela. Goals: Jarred Laza 2.

Results - Major semi-finals - August 26, Barlow Park, Cairns

A-Grade

Innisfail 33 def Ivanhoe Knights 14

Cairns Brothers 22 def Kangaroos 18

Reserve Grade

Innisfail 20 def Kangaroos 18

Cairns Brothers 30 def Mossman-Port Douglas 20

Under 18

Atherton 28 def Tully 12

Mareeba 26 def Kangaroos 24

Ben Roebuck, a try scorer for Tully in the Under 18s major semi-final against Atherton.

Tully’s Jayvee Field scored a try against Atherton in the Under 18s major semi-final.

Cohen Emmi, slotted two conversions for Tully in the Under 18s major semi-final.

Tully Tigers’ Under 18 rugby league team bowed out of finals, after last Saturday’s loss to Atherton.

SPORT

Innisfail and Tully, junior rugby league teams, march into FNQRL finals

MARIA GIRGENTI

LAST Saturday, one Tully Tigers team and three Innisfail junior rugby league teams started their finals campaign at Jones Park, Cairns.

In the Under 13 semi-final, Innisfail suffered a narrow loss to Cairns Brothers and played Edmonton this Saturday in the semi-final.

Innisfail Under 13 try scorers: Zaeden Kitching-Ely and Benjamin de Paauw. Goals: Cohen Daniel 3.

Tully’s Under 14 team notched up a comfortable win against Cairns Brothers, and this Saturday, they play Kangaroos in semi-final 2.

Tully Under 14 try scorers: Case Durighello, Alexander Greenwood, Kade Corby and Denan Anderson 2. Goals: Riley Berge 2.

Innisfail’s Under 15 team went down to Cairns Kangaroos Gold by 32 - 12.

Innisfail Under 15 try scorers: Jack

Croatto 2. Goal: Mitchell Martin 1 and 1 penalty goal.

In the first Under 16s semi-final, Innisfail had a dominant 46 - 10 victory over Redlynch and play Cairns Brothers this Saturday for a grand final berth at Barlow Park, Cairns, on September 9.

Innisfail Under 16 try scorers: Riley Wells 2, Braith Clubb, Floyd Sakail 2, Archie Averkoff, Ben Walker and D’Artanyan Connolly. Goals: Kyson Sue San 6 and D’Artanyan Connolly 1.

Ben Walker from Innisfail Brothers is one of three nominees in contention for the FNQRL (Coast) Under 16 Player of the Year, to be announced at this Friday evening’s Gold Medal dinner at Brothers Leagues Club, Cairns.

FNQ Rugby League Junior Coastal competition results:

Semi-finals 1 - August 26 - Jones Park, Cairns

Under 13

Cairns Brothers 22 def Innisfail 18

Edmonton Storm 22 def Cairns Kangaroos Blue 10

Under 14

Tully 24 def Cairns Brothers 6

Edmonton Storm 24 vs Cairns Kangaroos 8

Under 15

Cairns Kangaroos Gold 32 def Innisfail 12

Cairns Brothers 30 def Southern Suburbs 6

Under 16

Innisfail 46 def Redlynch 10

Mareeba 22 def Cairns Brothers 16

On August 18, Innisfail’s Under 15 Girls’ team defeated Tully in the grand final and claimed the FNQRL Coastal premiership.

Tully Tigers’ Under 14 Boys’ team kept their finals hopes alive with a convincing win over Cairns Brothers.

Innisfail’s Under 15 Boys’ team was defeated by Cairns Kangaroos Gold in last Saturday’s knockout semi-final.

Innisfail’s Under 16 Boys’ team had a strong semi-final win against Redlynch.

Three local soccer players starred in the victorious Under 12 Peninsula Girls’ team

MARIA GIRGENTI

THREE Cassowary Coast soccer players featured in the 10 - 12 years Peninsula Girls team, who won the title for the second consecutive year at the Football State Championships held at Marlin Coast Rangers Football Club, Trinity Beah, from August 3 - 6.

The Under 12 Peninsula team, which had 11 girls from Cairns and three from Innisfail, finished undefeated and top of Pool A.

Peninsula faced Pool B leader, Met East, in the final and, after a 2 - 0 victory, claimed the State title for the second consecutive year.

Elle Gracie, Addison Tanti and Bridie McLeod were part of the team that claimed the 2023 State Championships Soccer premiership title.

A special mention to Layla Bensi and Kit Moloney, who were selected as shadow players, with Moloney stepping in to play for North West in the championships.

Results:

Peninsula vs Darling Downs 5 - 0

Peninsula vs Sunshine Coast

1 - 0

Peninsula vs Met North 0 - 0

Peninsula vs South West 5 - 0

Peninsula vs Northern 5 - 0

Final: Peninsula vs Met East 2 - 0

The team won five games and one draw, with no goals scored against them for the entire tournament.

Tanti was recognised with the Coaches’ Award for attending every Sunday training session in Cairns, her efforts in all games played over the four days, being a quiet achiever and fulfilling her role in every game.

All three girls made the Cassowary Coast team after participating in trials in Cairns and gaining selection in the Peninsula team.

The team listened and thrived under the direction and constant encouragement of their coach, Dean Ashton.

Bridie McLeod, aged 11, started playing soccer at the age of three and always played for Boogan Stars Club.

In her Peninsula debut, McLeod played in the position of right fullback/right midfield and currently plays in the Boogan Under 10/11 team.

Both in their second championships, Tanti played in the position of centre fullback, whilst Gracie also played striker and shared in the goal-keeping duties.

Tanti has been playing soccer since the age of four, first starting with the Innisfail Tigers Squirts and currently playing in the Innisfail United Under 12 team.

Gracie has been playing soccer since age three, starting with the Boogan Stars Squirts

program.

Gracie was born to play soccer as 12 years ago next month she arrived unexpectedly at Castor Park during her brother’s soccer break-up when Charles Manitto was the Boogan Stars President.

Innisfail’s Gian and Karina Guglielmi were selected in the officials’ team and refereed at the 10-12 Years Girls Football State Championships. They also had the opportunity to be coached and mentored by top referees from Brisbane, whilst Gian Guglielmi also had the honour of saying the referee’s oath.

Lessons in Taekwondo, Hapkido, Tai Chi, and Arnis De Mano

Lessons in Taekwondo, Hapkido, and Arnis De Mano

by:

Suitable for all ages and levels

S O much to learn when you train at Tait’s Family Martial defence skills builds more

All parents are able to train for free with their child each a ernoon, 4pm to 4.45pm, Monday through to Thursday.

Addison Tanti was recognised for her efforts and received the Coaches’ Award. Gian and Karina Guglielmi officiated at the Football State Championships in Cairns.

Bridie McLeod, Elle Gracie and Addison Tanti were part of the victorious Under 12 Peninsula Girls’ team at the Football Championships in Cairns.

FISHING NEWS with Tony Mossop

WEATHER conditions continued to hamper reef fishermen last week, with strong southeasterly winds pushing up along the coastline, making reaching our main reef systems impossible.

Some fishermen managed to fish around the islands earlier in the week before the weather deteriorated towards the weekend. Plenty of doggie mackerel were found schooled up along with big queenfish and trevally. Spanish mackerel were also in their usual haunts; however, the rough weather and clear water made fishing conditions difficult.

Fishing in the sheltered bays and river mouths resulted in good flathead, trevally and grunter being caught. Larger yellowtail winter bream remain very active this time of year as well. Casting curl tail plastics or shallow diving rigid bodies over the flats have resulted in good catches.

as well. Generally, on the day one of these options will catch the fish.

Around the islands this week, the bigger tides will suit the grunter fishermen. Grunter loves to forage over the rubbly bottom that has been swept clean by the extra current. Lots of good island trout and grassy sweet lips will make their way up onto the shallow broken reef patches, chasing the warmer water this time of year. Doggie mackerel, queen fish and trevally should also be in good numbers chasing the large bait school.

River fishermen will have to contend with the big tides this week. The big morning high will flood areas that don't usually see a lot of water. This will encourage school fish to push up into these areas, chasing fresh pickings. As the tide starts to pull out, try fishing the gutter, the flats, that run back into the main flow. Any fish that has gone up with the big tide will, at some stage, have to come back out.

LUCINDA AUG - SEPT

Bait fishermen have been using a variety of baits to their advantage, from yabbies, prawns, strips of squid, and even small mangrove crabs, to catch a variety of fish.

Fishermen have reported barras and jacks being smaller in size and difficult to catch; small paddle tail plastics and prawn imitation lures are working in these cooler conditions, along with some persistence.

This weather forecast is looking good for the weekend. This should create a good opportunity for smaller boats to reach our main reefs and mackerel grounds.

Many methods will work when chasing mackerel; trolling wolf herring, garfish, or hard-body lures are all excellent options. Floating a gang-hooked pilchard is another option. Casting stick baits or metal slugs works

Remember to take your crab pots with you; bigger tides generally result in plenty of crabs being caught. Always get an up-to-date weather report before planning your next fishing trip, and stay safe.

Good Luck

Tony Mossop Tackleworld Tully

Kyle Milini with a sooty grunter caught on the Jackson Jester minnow.

Pro Staffer Ryan Sanga with a XOS flathead that ate a swimbait after dark.

“This weather forecast is looking good for the weekend.”

SPORT

Three local soccer players starred in the victorious

Under 12 Peninsula Girls’ team... Page 22

Tully’s Sasha-May Flegler, part of the historic gold-medal-winning Australian netball team

MARIA GIRGENTI

EARLIER this month, former Tully netballer SashaMay Flegler created history, starring in the Australian Youth Fast5 netball team, who claimed gold in the Commonwealth Youth Games FAST5 netball final.

Australia defeated South Africa by 39-29 and cemented themselves as the inaugural Commonwealth Youth Games FAST5 champions.

They went undefeated throughout the Games, led by captain Monika ‘Otai and head coach Elissa Kent.

Australia had challenging matches throughout the Games against Scotland, Canada, England, Trinidad & Tobago and South Africa.

On the first day, the Aussies registered a convincing 29-8 win over Scotland, then a dominant 54-6 win over Canada, with Nicola Barge, a standout.

Australia then defeated host nation Trinidad & Tobago by 62 goals with solid defence, providing 17 intercepts.

Gemma Hutchings, Sasha-May Flegler and Tabitha Packer, who each had three intercepts, starred in the match.

In the semi-final, Australia finished with a 19-goal win over a competitive England to secure their place in the gold medal match.

The gold medal clash was tight against South Africa after a slow start by the Aussies before taking a onegoal lead at the end of the first break.

Mia Lavis shone with her pinpoint accuracy and confidence to shoot from a distance, which enabled the Aussies to assert their dominance.

Applying defensive pressure across the court, the Australians kept the scoreboard ticking over with a range of shots to keep the South Africans at bay.

In the final quarter, the Australian team took a 17goal lead before a late surge by their opponents.

At the start of the final powerplay, South Africa slotted a six-point shot to apply pressure and reduce the deficit to six goals; however, the Aussies remained calm.

Australia responded to South Africa’s pressure with a four-point shot and denied South Africa the chance to net another goal worth six points, which secured Australia’s 10-point victory.

Nicola Barge (Sutherland Stingrays and Swifts Academy), Georgie Cleaver (Western Roar), Jada Delaney (Sunshine Coast Thunder), Sasha-May Flegler (Saints Netball), Gemma Hutchings (Brisbane North Cougars), Mia Lavis (Wodonga Raiders), Monika ‘Otai (UTS Randwick Sparks), Tabitha Packer (Contax Netball Club), Lucy Voyvodic (Matrics Netball Club), Clara Wigley (Curtin Hamersley Comets) made up the winning team.

FAST5 netball is different from the traditional netball format and quicker, as games have shorter six-minute quarters, with five instead of seven players on-court, power plays, and one-point, two-point and three-point shots scoring zones.

The goal shooter (GS) and goal attack (GA) can shoot goals from anywhere in the goal third.

Goals slotted from the inner and outer goal circles are worth two points, while goals shot from the outer goal circle are worth three points.

Australia, who competed in athletics, beach

volleyball, cycling, FAST5 netball, rugby 7s, swimming and triathlon, had 51 female and 24 male athletes, including five of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander descent.

Australia topped the medal tally with 64 medals (26 gold, 17 silver and 21 bronze).

Sasha-May Flegler, Gemma Hutchings and Jada Delaney, the only Queenslanders in the Australian team who were also part of the winning Queensland Under 17 team at the Australian Netball Championships.

Australian teammates, Sasha-May Flegler and Gemma Hutchings, who were also part of the winning Queensland Under 17 team.

The Australian FAST5 netball team who created history after winning the inaugural gold medal at the Commonwealth Youth Games in Tobago. Photo: Commonwealth Games Australia website.