Wet Tropic Times, 2023, February 16, Newspaper Edition

WEATHER

Regional Rainfall Report

Spiritual food with Jess

Do you really know Jesus?

THE parable of the ten virgins keeps popping into my head.

The story starts in Mark 25. The parable shows us that in the end times, some Christians will be prepared for the coming of the Messiah, and some are not.

Jesus points out that there are five wise women and five foolish women. While the intention was for all of them to meet him, it appears only five did.

The wise had enough oil and went to meet with the bridegroom,

and the door shut. The foolish did not; they went out seeking more oil, and the door had been closed. So what does this mean?

The oil symbolised intimacy. The five wise had a relationship with Jesus. They had communication and were constantly seeking him, repenting, and asking for forgiveness. Seeking him through every circumstance and situation and going to him first. Yoking with him.

The five foolish had a form of Godliness but a lack of intimacy. While deeds are great, a lack of intimacy will prevent you from

entering the banquet hall.

"Later, the others also came. 'Lord, Lord,' they said, 'open the door for us!' "But he replied, 'Truly I tell you, I don't know you.' "Therefore, keep watch because you do not know the day or the hour.

Matthew 25:11-13 NIV

Being a Christian isn't just about simply doing good, and it isn't just about our works.

It is truly about knowing Jesus and having an intimate and personal relationship with the living Messiah. Reading the Bible and following the scriptures isn't going to give you a golden ticket to enter heaven.

If you don't know Jesus, I encourage you to call out to him and get to know him personally. Be obedient to his Holy Spirit and come with an open heart to listen to what he has to say.

"Not everyone who says to me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. Many will say to me on that day, 'Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name and in your name drive out demons and in your name perform many miracles?' Then I will tell them plainly, 'I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!'

Matthew 7:21-23 NIV

Chinese Lunar New Year celebrations in Innisfail

MARIA GIRGENTI

ON January 28, Senior Police Liaison Officers

Kayko Berry and Hong Ma - Cross Cultural Liaison Unit - Far Northern Region joined in the Lunar New Year celebrations held at Innisfail's Lit Sing Gung Chinese Temple.

They were among 20 people from Innisfail and Tully who attended the Open Day to celebrate the Year of the Rabbit.

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Office: 22 Lannercost Street Ingham, QLD 4850

Phone: (07) 4776 0485

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Mail: PO Box 1100 Tully QLD 4854

The Lit Sing Gung Temple in Innisfail, which means 'A Coming Together of All Gods and Religions,' is a testament to the rich history of the Chinese culture in the region and their contribution to the community.

It is one of the few operating temples left in North Queensland, used to celebrate cultural, language, religious and spiritual traditions.

In Chinese culture, the Rabbit is fourth in the 12-year cycle of the Zodiac, and 2023 is the Year of the Water Rabbit.

According to Chinese astrology, each year is associated with an animal sign and one of the five elements, Gold (Metal), Water,

Wood, Fire, or Earth.

Both the sign and element of your birth year are said to affect one's personality and destiny, so there are five types of Rabbits, each with different characteristics.

People born in the year of the Rabbit are said to be gentle, approachable and possess a decent, noble and elegant manner.

The prominent red and gold coloured Lit Sing Gung temple in Owen Street were completed in January 1941, replacing an earlier temple built by Tom See Poy in 1886 as a place of Confucian-based worship and traditional family culture.

In September 2022, the Chinese community sadly lost Neville Lee, aged 94. Lee was heavily involved with the Innisfail Temple for over 40 continuous years, at various times holding the positions of Custodian of the Temple, President, Vice-President and Director of the Innisfail Chinese Community.

Eileen Lee, aged 91 years old, a retired Director of the Innisfail Temple, has been a Tai Chi instructor at the temple for 25 years,

having received training in Australia and China.

Chinese New Year started on January 22, the first day of the Chinese lunar month, with the festivities running until early February.

It is the biggest and most important annual festival in China, a time of great celebration and for families to reunite.

Senior Police Liaison Officers, Kayko Berry and Hong Ma with Eileen Lee, members of the Lit Sing Gung Temple and local community.

Senior PLOs Kayko Berry and Hong Ma with Eileen Lee during the Lunar New Year celebrations held at Innisfail’s Lit Sing Gung Chinese Temple.

Why are Mission Beach residents making Doctor's appointments in Ingham?

SARI RUSSO

LAST week, my current advertising representative Debra Mc Ateer bumped into friends from Mission Beach in Ingham.

When she asked why they were visiting Ingham, they answered that they found the Doctor's services in Ingham more convenient to access now there is no longer a Doctor in Mission. Despite their attempts, they were unable to get an appointment in Tully or Innisfail.

After returning from living down south in 2022, Debra and her husband, Peter Mc Ateer, have themselves had trouble getting Doctor's appointments locally.

"I currently have to travel to Innisfail to see my Doctor because when we came back home from living down south during 2022, the Doctors in Mission Beach had been closed, and Tully wasn't taking new patients. So, I have to travel to Innisfail if Peter and I want to see a Dr, or we have to wait in emergency to see a Dr, which can take a long time," said Debra Mc Ateer, who currently lives in Mission Beach.

KENNEDY MP Bob Katter said it amazed him that a place such as Mission Beach, twice voted as one of the most beautiful towns in the country, was struggling to attract a doctor.

"That's a sign something is very wrong," Mr Katter said.

He said he had been in constant contact with several local doctors on the issues they were facing, including Dr Rod Catton of Innisfail and Dr Lisa Fraser of Gordonvale.

Mr Katter said increasing Medicare rebates and wages for GPs, while also addressing immigration issues slowing the efforts of attracting overseas doctors, had already been on the agenda in meetings with the health and immigration ministers.

While Mr Katter's office had been advised a new body has now been established to ease the process of certifying overseas doctors, he said he would continue advocating for increased financial incentives to improve the general practitioner sector.

Mr Katter called for introducing HECS debt incentives for medical graduates who worked in remote and rural Australia and also spruiked the need for mandatory practice in regional areas.

"You want to become a doctor in Queensland and get a license for general practice, then you will spend two years in a position designated by the government - likely a rural or remote appointment," Mr Katter said.

"And the Federal Government should pay doctors serving rural and regional areas an extra $80,000 annually to retain them."

Mr Katter also called for revised entry requirements into medical courses at universities, stating more

women needed to be inducted and fewer overseas students.

"Women make great doctors, but where the gap is opening is when they can only work three days a week to be a mother for two days, and that should be encouraged. But that leaves a shortage, so we need more of them studying.

"But we spent more than seven years fighting for a North Queensland medical school, which we got at James Cook University (JCU).

"Our kids previously went to Brisbane, and they never came home.

"Townsville's JCU has been turning out over 200 Doctors a year now for 15 years, and yet our doctor shortages are higher now - so something is going badly wrong here.

"There has to be a stop to the universities being visa shops. The overseas students are taking positions that should be made available for Australians.

"We're putting 200 a year through JCU, I bet there's a significant portion of them who aren't ever going to practice in Australia, and they'll go home."

Tully and Innisfail are also underserviced for GPs. Despite having a GP service in Tully, the service needs to meet the demands required to fully service the Tully and Mission Beach area. Sadly it does not have that capacity.

"If your name is already at the Tully Medical Centre, you will get an appointment, but it will take a couple of weeks to get in," said Ms Barbara Bonaccorso, a resident of Tully, "Today's principal is BOOKAHEAD if you know you need to come back. You can always cancel the appointment if you find that you don't need it."

"I booked to get a referral to get a bone test yesterday. My appointment at Tully Medical centre is on March 16. It will take more than one month to get in," said Ms Sinikka Uski, a resident of Tully, "The Bone test van is in Tully regularly. Still, you can't book yourself in before you get a referral from a GP."

Ms Uski feels caught between a rock and a hard place as the bone van could be fully booked before she gets her referral.

Ms Bonaccorso and Ms Uski reported that the services at the Tully Hospital are a bit easier to access. Still, residents often wait 2, 3, 4 or even up to 5 hours to see a Doctor.

It is only in emergencies that you see a Doctor fast. After you finally get in to see a Doctor and get a referral, it will then take up to five weeks or more to see a specialist or months.

The shortage of GPs in rural areas needs to be addressed quickly. Health care is an essential service that all Australians should be able to access as required.

Mission Beach

Reef Guardians spring into action at Wongaling Beach

ON January 25, a littoral (coastal) forest fit-out took place at Reid Road, Wongaling Beach, with the help of eco-warriors from Mission Beach State School and The Rainforest School, Mission Beach.

Students received a crash course in tree planting and learnt about the importance of these critically endangered littoral forests.

This coastal revegetation activity saw 200 trees and shrubs planted to build more green spaces in the region.

The newly forested land is now reducing sediment and improving water quality and Reef health.

As the forest grows, it will provide cooler, shady areas for passing pedestrians.

Each tree planted by these students makes a cumulative difference to Reef health and creates stewardship for the environment.

The Hinchinbrook Cassowary Coast Local Marine Advisory Committee (HCC LMAC) Chair and Councillor Jeff Baines states, "coastal forests provide a wind and wave buffer for infrastructure and homes, plus the benefit of screening artificial light from foreshore areas, which is especially important for marine life navigation."

Recently, the littoral forest adjacent to

the revegetation site has been victim to illegal tree clearing.

Council's Tree Management Policy is currently under review and used as a tool to pave the way for a greener region and strengthen compliance around residents clearing for views.

Councillor Baines says, "Council recognises the value of trees and are working their way towards their greater protection and increased green spaces along the Cassowary Coast".

This project is a partnership between C4 - Community for Coastal and Cassowary Conservation, Cassowary Coast Regional Council and HCC LMAC.

C4 kindly donated a diverse range of littoral forest seedlings, whilst Council supported with site preparation, seedlings and ongoing assistance with site maintenance.

Community members are encouraged to join in future working bees to assist

with site maintenance.

The revegetation was an initiative of HCC LMAC to empower the community for on-ground action to improve the health of the Great Barrier Reef.

The community's watchful eyes are requested over this space and other regional green spaces.

Anyone who observes damage caused by animals or human activity, please report it to Council on 1300 763 903.

2023 Prep classes - Mourilyan State School and St Rita's School, South Johnstone

Reef Guardian school students from Mission Beach State School pushed through the heat of the day to plant 200 trees and shrubs.

The Rainforest School, Mission Beach students received tree planting instructions from C4 nursery volunteer Cosima Stokeld.

Teacher Lilly Murphy, Principal Peta Bryan, Lisa Grima and Louise Ravenscroft (school officers) with St Rita's School, South Johnstone Prep students.

Teachers Emily Mossman, Leesha Bolton and Denielle Coffey (teacher aide), with Mourilyan State School Prep students. Absent: Sam Cook (teacher aide).

Carmel Cavallaro 0427 966 945

Taits Family Martial Arts Be health smart feature

THETaits Family Martial Arts group have been instructing in Martial Arts since 1996 as a hobby.

In 2004 they started instructing practically every day of the week.

Chrys and Duane Tait are Internationally, and Nationally Accredited instructors in both Taekwondo and Hapkido.

Lately, due to being disposed of our regular dojang, we have children's classes from Mondays through to Thursdays from 4 pm to 4.45 pm. Adult classes for over 13 years are from 5.15 pm to 6.15 pm on those days at East Innisfail State School.

Your first two lessons are free.

Also, this Saturday is a FREE Ladies Self Defence Class starting at 9.30 am to 11 am.

Talk, Eat, Smile & Laugh with Confidence

AFTERworking as a dentist across regional Queensland for many years, Dr Navdeep Singh recognized the growing need to provide more quality services to our regional and rural communities. With this goal in mind, Dr Singh started My Family Dental Qld with a single private practice in the cane farming community of Ingham in 2013.

Along the way, the quality of care of the My Family Dental team proved highly successful, and the response from the community was overwhelming. This encouragement resulted in Dr Singh opening more practices across rural Queensland to now proudly operating

seven dental clinics, including Ingham and Innisfail.

Whether it's a baby's first checkup, customizing mouth guards for sports training or restoring confidence by creating beautiful natural smiles, My Family Dental Qld does it all! We can assist with teeth straightening, whitening, cosmetic treatments, or teeth replacements such as dentures or implants. Our teams provide high-quality results, all in addition to providing gentle preventative care and hygiene treatment. In other words, we help you maintain your healthy, happy smiles for life!

We utilize advanced technology and best practice and pride ourselves in our meticulous attention to patients' needs to achieve the best individual results.

Each of our dental providers are passionate about providing quality care to their local communities, many of which have been born and raised in regional Queensland and are passionate about giving back to their

communities. Our teams are focused on building long-term relationships with our patients and each other, like one big family. Every staff member is an essential part of our group and assumes a vital role in providing a caring and welcoming patient experience.

We look forward to supporting you on your journey to optimal oral health and a confident, beautiful smile!

Providing Community Care Services in Ingham and Surrounding Hinchinbrook communities for over 30 years. We can assist with CHSP and HCP Clients needs:

Clients who require

Innisfail State College 2022 Year 12 Dux and Outstanding Graduate award winners

WET TROPIC

Times

What more will we lose?

SARI RUSSO NEE HYYTINEN

LAST week I discussed the issue of major banks closing down their services in rural areas whilst informing rural residents that all the services they need will be easily accessed online.

I mentioned that there is a failure by these banks to understand that our communication services are only sometimes working at a functional capacity. Therefore the expectation that our services have not significantly diminished due to the removal of a brick-and-mortar facility is false.

This week I have spent some time looking into the diminished capacity of rural medical services, particularly in the Hill electorate.

The issues with GP services not offering a bulk billing service have existed for a significant period across Australia. This results from the rebates for many GPs having yet to be raised since 2014. What was supposedly a temporary freeze introduced by Labor has now existed for eight years.

In that time, all GP facilities have seen rises in what they are required to pay for their practices, their staff, medical products, utilities and all the other requirements needed to run an efficient medical service.

Due to this price freeze, we have witnessed a significant increase in co-payment GP services.

As GPs services are now often co-pay services, it does raise the question of why GP services are not staying in rural areas. There is more to this issue than just the price freeze.

Rural areas appear to have become unappealing places to start your service, and this issue needs to be addressed across a spectrum of services.

STORY AND PHOTOS BY MARIA GIRGENTI

ON February 3, Innisfail State College live-streamed its 2022 Year 12 Subject Awards and Dux ceremony and announced the winners.

Alexia Guglielmi, who achieved an ATAR of 95.85, received the prestigious College Dux award and $500 bursary, sponsored by former ISC student Justice Darryl Rangiah and the Rangiah family.

She has always loved the critical thinking and problem solving that is part and parcel of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) learning and embraced the fact that STEM learnings are vital for living in this modern world, so she chose her subjects accordingly.

In June 2022, Guglielmi was the first representative from ISC to attend the National Youth Science Forum in Brisbane.

For three years, she participated in the annual STEM Girl Power program, which encourages girls to engage in a range of exciting experiences to stimulate their love of STEM.

Last month, Guglielmi returned to the National Youth Science Forum as a student staff volunteer and assisted with the program.

She also represented the College as a Girl Power STEM ambassador to inspire other students to embrace STEM.

This month, Guglielmi started her studies at the Australian National University in Canberra, her first of a four-year dual Bachelors’ degree in Mathematical Sciences and Science.

Brianna Stepanoff received the Most Outstanding Graduate for Applied/VET Subjects and a

$400 bursary sponsored by N & K Services.

At last year’s Business Liaison Association Aspire awards, Stepanoff received the Far North Queensland Hospitality and Tourism Student of the Year.

Stepanoff currently works parttime at a local business and intends to study for a Diploma in Interior Design online through TAFE before considering a Bachelor of Business through James Cook University.

A special mention to Kirrily Csukardy, who received top academic subject awards for every subject she studied in 2022.

Applied/VET awards:

Julian Sujana (Sport and Recreation), Frunz Dariano (Certificate III in Fitness); Monique Boswell (Social and Community Studies), Alannah Borg and Tara Larsen (Visual Arts in Practice); Tulua Weare (Music in Practice); Kaitlyn-Rose Marks (Dance in Practice); Evee Toombs (Essential English); Reece Doyle (Essential Mathematics); Brianna Stepanoff

Acts of Vandalism to MultimillionDollar Community Facility

HINCHINBROOK SHIRE COUNCIL

VANDALISM continues to impact our community, with damage again inflicted on the gates surrounding Rotary Park playground located in the Ingham CBD.

“At approximately 2.00 am Sunday, February 5 and 1.30 am Thursday, February 9, 2023, an individual can be seen intentionally damaging the gate. Not only are they damaging the gate, but it also poses a high safety risk for children who use this playground,” said Mayor Ramon Jayo.

Mayor Jayo said, “It is extremely disappointing to see that there are people in our community who have little regard for community assets, wilfully damaging and defacing property and assets resulting in cost and added expense to ratepayers.”

“This behaviour does not only cost the community in repairs, but also impacts our families and children through the temporary loss of use and enjoyment of the facilities, and also damages our reputation in the

eyes of tourists to our wonderful venues.” said Mayor Jayo.

Council has lodged formal complaints with Queensland Police and have provided evidence of the perpetrator through CCTV footage. Council will seek an order for restitution in some manner or form as compensation for the cost of repairs.

Because vandalism is an ongoing problem Council is committed to rolling out more CCTV cameras for the purposes of securing evidence and pursuing the culprits on behalf of the community.

Mayor Jayo said, “Council has released footage of this most recent incident (see link provided below), and anyone who may be able to assist with identification of the culprit is requested to please come forward. Someone always knows something when it comes to vandalism, so we are requesting residents to be aware and to report such incidents.”

If you have any information concerning this incident,

(Aquatic Practices); Anastasia Kovacich (Agricultural Practices); Jake Wieland (Furnishing); Alannah Borg (Engineering); Jorja Clowes (Early Childhood Studies); Jorja Adams (Certificate II in Kitchen Operations); Michaela McInerney (Certificate III in Health Services Assistance) and Ananwin Mahaniyom (Certificate II in Skills for Work and Vocational Pathways).

Subject awards:

Tiarna McKay (Biology, Chemistry); Kirrily Csukardy (Design, Accounting, English, General Mathematics); Adria Cunningham (Drama); Kyran Dineen (Physical Education, Geography) and Brenda Moua (Literature).

General subject awards:

Marine Science (Milla Hayes); Year 12 - Alexander Turco (Mathematical Methods); Year 11 - Arshbir Dhother (Mathematical Methods); Kai Darveniza (Digital Solutions, Physics); Kirrily Csukardy and Abigail Rigano (Psychology) and Tiarna McKay (Specialist Mathematics).

please report it to Queensland Police and quote reference number QP2300233987. We need your assistance to apprehend the perpetrators of these malicious acts so we can hopefully end any further acts.

https://www.dropbox.com/s/myfjo7qq3akj7ji/ Rotary%20Park%20Playground%20Gate%20 Damage%20Combined.mp4?dl=0

Alexia Guglielmi won the 2022 Innisfail State College Year 12 Dux Award - General Subjects.

Brianna Stepanoff received the 2022 Year 12 Most Outstanding Graduate Award -Applied/VET Subjects.

Defence Welcome and Information Expo Wrap Up, NBN Announcement and Forrest Beach Function Centre Grand Opening

2023 Defence Welcome and Information Expo Wrap Up Council, in partnership with Hinchinbrook Chamber of Commerce Industry and Tourism attended the 2023 Defence Welcome and Information Expo in Townsville on Saturday 11 February 2023.

Council had the opportunity to showcase all things Hinchinbrook and reveal some of our best kept secrets.

238 people engaged at the Hinchinbrook region exhibit, with the Thorsborne Trail and Hinchinbrook Island generating the greatest interest, however a lack of availability of Permits is still a major barrier to more island visitation. Let us all promote the Hinchinbrook region and encourage visitors to please stop and discover our products, characters and experiences.

DrumMuster Operations

DrumMuster Operations are still accessible at Halifax Resource Recovery Centre.

Despite temporarily ceasing

DrumMuster collection at Warrens Hill Landfill and Resource Recovery Centre, eligible containers can still be dropped off at Halifax Resource Recovery Centre.

Please note that operating hours at Halifax are:

• Monday and Tuesday - Closed;

• Wednesday - 8.30am to 1.30pm;

• Thursday - 8.30am to 1.30pm;

• Friday - 12.30pm to 5.30pm;

• Saturday - 7.30am to 5.30pm (closed between 12.00pm and 1.00pm); and

• Sunday - 12.30pm to 5.30pm

Please be advised that the Halifax Resource Recovery Centre is closed on all Public Holidays.

Council regrets any inconvenience that these changes will cause the community, however the safety of the public must always be paramount and the community's understanding would be appreciated.

For more information about the Halifax Resource Recovery Centre, visit Council's website, Waste Facilities and Fees page.

NBN Announcement

NBN and the Australian Government have released the latest suburbs and towns where additional premises will become eligible to get fibre connected to their house or business by ordering an eligible wholesale speed tier1 - with up to 58 per cent located in regional areas and the rest in metro areas such as Ingham.

Full fibre connection to the NBN network offers customers access to the higher speed tiers, which delivers a better, more reliable internet experience for homes and businesses.

The enhancements to the NBN network to deliver faster speeds and more data reflect and support business and societal changes over the last two years.

To find out if you are eligible for an upgrade, register at nbn.com.au/FTTPupgrade.

Tribute to Elvis presents

Throughout the Years

Australia’s “King of the 50’s”

Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist, Brody Finlay is one of Australia's premier 50's Elvis Tribute acts.

Finlay will take you back in time to the roaring 50's with this not to be missed performance singing all your favourites including Hound Dog, Jailhouse Rock, Can’t Help Falling In Love and Love Me Tender.

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 23/02 - Vince Corbett Park Amenities UpgradeConstruction.

Should you require further information, please contact Council’s Procurement Services on 4776 4665.

Half Yearly Rate Notices

Half Yearly Rate Notices will be issued on Thursday 23 February 2023 with payment due by Friday 31 March 2023.

Have you moved house recently?

Have any of your contact details changed?

If so, please update your details with Council as soon as possible to ensure you receive your Rate Notice in a timely manner. It is not too late to make the switch to Electronic Rate Notices.

If you would like to receive future Rate Notices electronically, please visit Council’s website Rates Fees and Charges page or scan the QR Code to complete the online registration form.

Council encourages ratepayers who may have difficulty with payments to discuss a payment plan as soon as possible.

Ratepayers also have access to assistance under Council’s Financial Hardship Policy.

Date: Saturday 18 February 2023

Time: 7.30pm

Where: JL Kelly Theatre

76 Townsville Road Ingham

Cost: $39.95 - $44.95

Ingham Raintree Community Market

Come and enjoy the beautiful items for sale at the stalls under the raintrees!

Date: Sunday 19 February 2023

Time: 8.00am to 12.00pm

Where: Rotary Park Ingham

Cost: Free event

In the event of Rotary Park being too wet, the Ingham Raintree Community Market will be held in the carpark at the rear of Council's main office.

Knock at the Cabin (M) While vacationing at a remote cabin in the woods, a young girl and her parents are taken hostage by four armed strangers who demand they make an unthinkable choice to avert the apocalypse.

Date: Friday 24 February 2023

Time: 6.30pm

Where: JL Kelly Theatre

Cost: $10 - $15

Blueback (PG)

Follows Abby, a child who befriends a magnificent wild blue groper while diving. When Abby realises that the fish is under threat, she takes inspiration from her activist Mum, Dora, and takes on poachers to save her friend.

Date: Saturday 25 February 2023

Time: 10.30am

Where: JL Kelly Theatre

Cost: $10 - $15

Operations Fortune: Ruse de guerre (M)

Special agent Orson Fortune and his team of operatives recruit one of Hollywood's biggest movie stars to help them on an undercover mission when the sale of a deadly new weapons technology threatens to disrupt the world order.

Date: Saturday 25 February 2023

Time: 2.30pm

Where: JL Kelly Theatre

Cost: $10 - $15

Good Luck to You, Leo Grande (MA)

In Good Luck to You, Leo Grande, twotime Academy Award winner Emma Thompson (Love, Actually) embodies the candor and apprehension of retired teacher Nancy Stokes, and newcomer Daryl McCormack (Peaky Blinders) personifies the charisma and compassion of sex worker Leo Grande.

As Nancy embarks on a post-marital sexual awakening and Leo draws on his skills and charm, together they find a surprising human connection.

Date: Saturday 25 February 2023

Time: 6.30pm

Where: JL Kelly Theatre

Cost: $15

This event is a licenced event.

A Man Called Otto (PG)

Otto is a grump who's given up on life following the loss of his wife and wants to end it all. When a young family moves in nearby, he meets his match in quick-witted Marisol, leading to a friendship that will turn his world around.

Date: Sunday 26 February 2023

Regional Arts Development Fund Public Applications

Round Two 2022-2023

Do you or someone you know have a project idea that could contribute to Arts and Culture in the Hinchinbrook Shire?

Applications for funding through Council's Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF) Program are open for Round Two from Monday 30 January 2023 until 5.00pm Friday 24 February 2023.

RADF provides funding to successful applicants for up to 70% of the total project cost.

To download an application form and to find out more visit Council's website, Grants and Funding page or contact the TYTO Regional Art Gallery.

The Regional Arts Development Fund is a partnership between the Queensland Government and Council to support local arts and culture in regional Queensland.

Time: 10.30am

Where: JL Kelly Theatre

Cost: $10 - $15

Young Carers Connect

Young Carers Connect (YCC) is about having a laugh, playing games and meeting other young people from across Australia who care for others.

Relationships Australia in partnership with the Young Carers Team at Carers Australia are facilitating a connect session.

The connect session is scheduled as follows:

• 5.00pm - 6.00pm Wednesday 27 February 2023.

To register, send an email to youngcarers@racr.org.au with the following:

• Name;

• Date of Birth;

• Contact number;

• Email; and

• Postcode.

For further information please email youngcarers@racr.org.au.

4776 4600 council@hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au HinchinbrookShireCouncil

Image: Lucinda Progress Association - Borello Park Mural (Previous RADF recipient).

Image: Council's Economy and Events Coordinator Julie Mac Pherson at the 2023 2023 Defence Welcome and Information Expo.

Innisfail paramedic Michael Faulks, recipient of a prestigious QAS award

MARIA GIRGENTI

IN late 2022, Advanced Care paramedic Michael Faulks from Innisfail received the prestigious Michael Dillon Award, which honours Michael Dillon, who

worked as a Regional Ambulance Education Officer in the Far Northern region.

Although terminally ill with a rare cancer, Mr Dillon's continued determination and commitment to the

IGGULDENS

professionalism of the QAS inspired those around him. He passed away in November 1998.

The recipient of the Michael Dillon Award consistently displays these attributes.

Faulks, along with a Cairns ambulance officer, received the award in 2022 for outstanding determination, dedication and commitment to the service's professionalism.

The award has been running since the early 2000s. Faulks, the longestserving paramedic in Innisfail, is one of only two in the FNQ southern sector to receive this award.

"I feel extremely humbled and proud to be recognised as I knew Mick Dillon personally, and there is no better commendation than an award voted on by one's peers/management."

QAS Assistant Commissioner Far Northern Region Rita Kelly presented Faulks with the award at the QAS Award presentation during Ambulance Week in Cairns.

Faulks, born in Duchess, Queensland and lived in Innisfail for 42 years, has been in the QAS for 28 years.

Whilst employed for ten years at the meatworks as the Workplace Health and Safety Officer, Faulks completed a First Aid course. They're one of the paramedics who encouraged him to become an Honorary volunteer, and Faulks completed 3,000 hours in five years.

In 1991, Faulks became a full-time student and completed a three-year TAFE Associate Diploma of Paramedic Science.

After spending five years as a volunteer, he has worked full-time for QAS for 24 years.

Having completed Year 10, his biggest challenge was getting into the QAS, but evidence of prior learning as a butcher and assistance of mentors Richard Oliveri (practical) and Neville Temple (assignments).

The role involves ongoing mandatory training, online learning packages, faceto-face training twice a year, practical scenarios and in-class education.

For the past four years, QAS is now a registered organisation, meaning paramedics are professionally registered, must complete active learning commitments, and are accountable to the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA).

Paramedics can administer the lifesaving blood clot-dissolving drug to patients, canulate/administer IV drugs/ fluids to people with diabetes suffering seizures, and can pronounce a patient deceased.

Those wanting to join QAS must complete a three-year Bachelor of Paramedic Science.

Faulks previously received a National Service Medal for 25 years of Meritorious Service, 20 years Long Service Award and a Meritorious Award as a responder to the Ravenshoe Café blast.

"I find the role extremely rewarding, especially the ability to take patient's pain away and the camaraderie of fellow paramedics."

"You need to have patience, be an excellent listener, love your job, take pride in the service and be able to talk about traumatic events with colleagues."

Innisfail paramedic, Michael Faulks, recipient of the prestigious QAS Michael Dillon Award.

Innisfail paramedic Michael Faulks and his wife Mary-Ann.

CCRC’s Community Grant Program has awarded

CASSOWARY COAST REGIONAL COUNCIL

SIXTEEN local community groups throughout the region are winners with the Cassowary Coast Regional Council successfully awarding $49,228.80 of funding through Round One of the Community Grants Program.

This funding will enable groups to facilitate their initiatives, projects, activities and events which all contribute to the vibrancy of the and enhance the lives of residents through the development of social cohesion and connection.

The grants contribute to injecting funds back into the region with initiatives supporting cultural arts, community wellbeing, economic activation and environment sustainability initiatives driven by community groups.

Innisfail and District Historical Society

President Trish Ernst stated these funds will assist boosting the visibility of the Museum to new visitors.

Currently, the museum is not easily located or recognised as there is inadequate signage on the exterior of the building.

This grant will assist the group in highlighting their location and contact

information with branded signage and attract more visitors to the group’s unique displays.

Local community groups and suitable individuals are encouraged to explore what opportunities are available, in preparation for Round Two Community Grants, with submissions opening on February 24.

Round One recipients:

Community Well-being and Lifestyle

Junior bowls coaching program - Tully Bowls Club

Pickleball development - Cardwell Pickleball Club

Touch football holiday clinics - Tully Touch Association

Cardwell aqua exercise - Cardwell Chamber of Commerce

Volunteer safety - St Vincent de Paul Society Innisfail

Tully Community Christmas TreeTully Chamber of Commerce

El Arish ANZAC Day - El Arish Sport and Recreation Group

Regional Arts Development Fund

Taking on True Friends’ tour - Aaron Lee

How to build a forest - Ken Allen

River Feast Entertainment Stage -

Feast of the Senses Inc.

Professional development - Sundance

Studio

Economic

Tech touch up - Great Green Way

Tourism

Museum signage - Innisfail and District Historical Society

2023 Cardwell UFO Festival -

Cardwell UFO Festival Inc

Environmental Sustainability

Mission Beach arboretum revitalisation - Community for Coastal and Cassowary Conservation (C4)

Education local sugar industry - Tully Canegrowers Ltd

Further information regarding Round Two of Community Grants is available via the CCRC website.

LIVE ONLINE AUCTION

Pallet Racking Bays, Bubble Wrap Dispenser, Industrial Pedestal Fans, Bench Grinder,Aaron Vacuum Table, Galvanised Pipe Clamps, Finger Storage Racks- Single & Double Sided, Laminate Library of Offcut Sheets, Laminate Panel Cut Offs, Routers & Router Bits, Heavy Duty Hand Held Sanders, Makita Cordless Tools, Male & Female Aluminium Jigs, Mobile Panel Trolleys. Office: Eaton Powerware 5110 Uninterruptable Power

Intel NUC Computer, Printers, Kyocera ECOSYS Multifunction

Bartle Frere QLD 4861

Total Land Area: 31.94 Ha = 78.92 acres*

Usable Land Area: 30.28 Ha = 74.82 acres*

Sale is on a W.I.W.O. basis which includes the 2023 sugarcane crop, already fertilised. Sales includes: Two combined lockable sheds – Total floor area 471.96 sqm*

Auction: Saturday 11th March 2023 – 11am Onsite.

Inspections available by appointment.

Inspections available by appointment.

All offers will be presented to the Owners, an offer may be accepted prior to Auction. *all areas approximate List #1597 https://aarealty.net/rural/1597/

SHOP LOCAL

PUBLIC NOTICES

TROPIC

FUNERAL NOTICES

FUNERAL NOTICES

LOWE, Catherine (Cathy)

Aged 50 years. Late of Townsville.

Beloved daughter of Barry and Judy. Sister of Stephen and Suzanne. Sister-in-law and aunty of their families.

All relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend a Celebration of Life for Cathy commencing at 1.00pm FRIDAY 17th February 2023 in the Chapel of Blacks Funerals Crematorium, 18 Scullen Avenue, Innisfail.

LEVER, Alan Edwin Perry

Aged 85 years. Late of ‘Leverdale’ Murry Upper.

Beloved husband of Elaine. Loved father ‘Pa’ of Susan, Christine, Ellen-May, Paul, Katie-Ann and Saxon.

Much loved father-in-law, grandfather and great grandfather. Adored brother of Patricia (dec)

SALE OF LAND

All relatives and friends are respectfully invited o attend a Funeral Service for Alan commencing at 10.00am TUESDAY 21st February 2023 at St John’s Anglican Church, Tully. Followed by internment in the Tully Cemetery.

The Service will be Live Streamed via our website www.blacksfunerals.com.au/tribute-centre

Members of the Australian Funeral Directors Assoc.

Servicing the Cassowary Coast for Three Generations

PUBLIC NOTICE

Cassady Street level crossing works

Wilmar Sugar will undertake works in February to upgrade the cane railway level crossing on Cassady Street, Ingham.

Cassady Street will be closed to all vehicular traffic at the level crossing from Tuesday, 21 February to Thursday, 23 February 2023.

A detour and traffic control will be in place throughout this period.

Please obey all signs and speed limits through the construction zone.

All enquiries in relation to the works can be emailed to info@au.wilmar-intl.com.

CLASSIFIEDS Times

Church times across the region

AOG / ACC /

Tully Family Church, 9am, Sun, 2 Watkins St, Tully Cardwell AOG, 9:30am Sun, Shire Hall, Cardwell Mission Beach Family Church, 6pm, Sun, Unit 3, 2-4 Stephens Street, Mission Beach Life Church, 10am, Sun, 28-32 Townsville Road, Ingham

Baptist Churches

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

6:30pm, Sun, Ladies Church

Churches of Christ Care Rockingham Home Aged Care Service, 9am Fri, 3rd Fri of month, 40 Jamieson St, Cardwell

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

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

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.

8:30am, Sunday. 37 McIlwraith Street, Ingham All Souls, 7am, Sun, 10 Four Mile Road, Victoria Estate

New Chairman of the Australian Sugar Milling Council

SUGAR MILLING COUNCIL

MR Jannik Olejas has been elected to the position of Chairman of the Australian Sugar Milling Council (ASMC) following the retirement of Mr John Pratt, who had led the organisation since September 2015. Mr Olejas is the Chief Executive Officer of Mackay Sugar, Australia’s second-largest raw sugar producer.

Mr Olejas’s election to Chairmanship of the Milling Council comes at an interesting time for the sugar industry as it emerges from the challenges of two La Nina-influenced growing, harvesting and processing seasons that made conditions difficult. In some districts, this was combined with mill-related operational challenges that have brought about a longer-thandesired season in 2021 and 2022.

Despite these challenges, raw sugar exports will be worth an estimated $2.2 billion to the Queensland economy in 2022. With the world price for sugar continuing to provide a profitable return for Australian producers, Mr Olejas remains optimistic that the Australian industry has a strong foundation on which to build.

He said that his optimism for the future of the Australian sugar sector brought with it a range of challenges and opportunities, with the Milling Council concentrating policy and advocacy efforts around four key issues.

Major focus areas for ASMC are stabilising land under cane and cane supply; energy and carbon policy and the interaction with renewable energy; continuing efforts around trade and market access; and decreasing the regulatory burden that inhibits our industry.

The sector is energised by the opportunity to contribute to the dual goals of increasing Queensland’s renewable energy supply while reducing emissions following the release of the Queensland Energy & Jobs Plan”, Mr Olejas said.

“In addition, ASMC will continue to offer a range

of direct value add benefits to members, such as advocating for a regulatory and policy environment that can unlock future investment and a focus on regional communities where we can attract the skills and labour needed to maintain and grow our industry.

Mr Olejas said he was looking forward to working with his fellow ASMC Directors and the broader sugar industry to ensure a continuation of the common advocacy and policy response to matters that impact the whole sugar industry.

The background of Jannik Olejas:

Jannik was appointed Chief Executive Officer of Mackay Sugar in April 2020, having previously held the role of General Manager from September 2019, following the completion of the subscription to Mackay Sugar by Nordzucker AG.

Danisco Sugar A/S had previously employed Jannik since 1992. Following the acquisition of Danisco Sugar A/S by Nordzucker AG in 2009, he held various positions with Nordzucker, initially within Sales & Marketing and subsequently in Agriculture. He has worked internationally with clients, suppliers and stakeholders across Europe.

Jannik holds a degree in Sales & Marketing from Copenhagen Business School and has undertaken various general management training courses at International Business Schools.

Grower commitment to reef recognised

CANEGROWERS

CANEGROWERS welcomes the Queensland Government’s continuing support of the industry’s best management practice program, Smartcane BMP.

Earlier today, Minister for the Environment and the Great Barrier Reef Meaghan Scanlon announced $4.47 million in funding for the industry-led program over the next three years.

The funding is part of a broader $21.71 million package to assist programs that continue to protect the Great Barrier Reef.

“Today’s announcement of continued funding for Smartcane BMP is a validation of the fantastic results that growers in this program have achieved over the past four years,” CANEGROWERS Chairman Owen Menkens said.

“Growers right across the industry have embraced the program which validates changes that are providing positive environmental outcomes, while also improving their business’ bottom line.”

40% of Queensland’s cane-growing area is now independently accredited as operating at best practice. And interest continues to grow, with more growers signing up for the program each month.

“While 40% might be the official number, when you take into account the number of growers who are implementing best practice on their farms but have not sought accreditation, the actual figure would be much higher,” Mr Menkens said.

“The Smartcane BMP program is 100% voluntary and I encourage growers to seek accreditation. While we in the industry know we are operating at the highest of environmental standards, accreditation provides a validation that opens the doors to policy and marketbased recognition.”

In just the past few years, more than 500 growers have used Smartcane BMP to document changes to their farming practices. These changes have addressed disease management, weed control, nutrient management, soil health, tillage, fallow cropping, and/or irrigation scheduling.

“This funding support from the government goes directly to underpin the regionally based Smartcane BMP team, with representatives in each district. The BMP team now has security to build on past successes and continue to assist growers who want to document their farming achievements and become accredited.”

Jannik Olejas

Stolen bicycles returned to owner, Innisfail

SENIOR CONSTABLE JANE MORAN

CONSTABLE Cormie with owner of stolen mountain bikes

On Tuesday, December 13, 2022, two Norco Storm touring bikes, one blue the other red, were stolen from a Turner Street address in South Innisfail.

Officers located the red bike in a drain in East Innisfail the following Monday, on December 19.

On February 2, officers attended a Clancy Street address in relation to another matter and whilst at the address, they located the second bike.

Both bikes are now back in possession of their rightful owner.

Investigations are ongoing, if you have any information in relation to the theft of these bikes you are encouraged to contact police and quote QP2202135552.

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.

Quote this reference number: QP2202135552

Junior cricketers selected in District Boys' teams

MARIA GIRGENTI

ON February 10, Good Counsel Primary School Principal and cricket coach Liam Kenny travelled with junior cricketers Ben Franks, Ben Sinton, Sam Costello and Brady Devaney, who competed in the Cassowary Coast Northern vs Southern Zone match at Kurrimine Beach.

These four GCPS students represented the Cassowary Coast North team.

Sam Costello gained selection in the Cassowary Coast team, whilst Ben Sinton and Brady Devaney made the Presidential XI team.

Good Counsel College's Year 7 cohort started the year strong and proved to be a force on the sporting field.

Quinn Devaney, Cooper Healey, Chaise Di Carlo and Travis Sinton competed in the Cassowary Coast Cricket North versus South match held at Kurrimine Beach last Friday and earned selection in the Cassowary Coast 10-12

Years Boys' cricket team.

A special thank you to GCPS Principal Liam Kenny for his time and efforts in coaching the boys and fostering their love of cricket.

Mission Beach cricketers Shaun Riley and Chase Frumento earned selection in the Cassowary Coast team, with Nollie Uitenweerde in the President's XI team.

Goondi State School students Lawson and Kyuss competed in the Cassowary Coast North team, with Kyuss selected to participate in the Peninsula trials.

Match results: Cassowary Coast North 9/163 def Cassowary Coast South all out for 62.

These cricketers will travel to Tolga to compete in the Peninsula Championship trials on February 19 - 20.

Beach cricketer, Nollie Uitenweerde was selected in the President’s XI team.

GCPS Principal Liam Kenny with Ben Franks, Ben Sinton, Sam Costello and Brady Devaney who competed in the Cassowary Coast Southern Zone cricket match.

Good Counsel College Year 7 students, Quinn Devaney, Chaise Di Carlo, Cooper Healey and Travis Sinton.

Lawson and Kyuss competed in the Cassowary Coast North Zone team against Cassowary Coast South.

Mission Beach cricketers, Shaun Riley and Chase Frumento gained selection in the Cassowary Coast team.

Mission

Bowls News

Ingham Bowls

INGHAM Bowls Club News.

Three club members were presented with special badges on Sunday, February 12.

Peter Herman was presented with a Veteran badge by NQMBA President Will Johnson.

John Hamlyn was presented with his Super Veteran's badge by Will Johnson.

Ren Cantatore was presented with his Patriarch badge.

Congratulations to these three bowlers.

Bowls Results:

Barefoot Bowls played on February 9.

The prize-winning team with the highest winning score was Danny Chappell & Stan Cotton, 23 defeating Mark Girgenti & Bob Bell 4

Dianne Tomba, Angie Foti & John Potto drew with Jan Johnson, John Lone & Alf Di Bella 10 - 10

Men's Pairs results for February 10.

Prize Winning team was J Eddleston, K Walker & T Koop 19 defeated B Bell, J Hamlyn & T Koop 12

S Scott 7 I Muldowney defeated G Brierley & P Herman 21 - 15

J Dickerson 7 T George defeated P Reyland 7 R Peterson 19-18

Social Bowls results for February 12.

A Foti, M Thompson, M May & A Cole def G Bison, B Bell, G Wegert & B Haupt 30 -9 (23 points to 5)

Lidia Marbelli, B Smallbom, G Rose 7 P Herman def

J Dickerson, K Haupt, C Johnson & T Garate 32 - 12 (21-7)

C Cavallo, A Fudriga, K Walker & T Koop def H Magennis, R Peterson, S Cotton & J Thompson 28 - 7 (21-6)

M Bube, P Ryan, R Cantatore & F Pallanza def R Mitchell, W Johnson, M Hawkins & G Hatfield 26 15 (21-8)

M Moore, T Thompson, J Hamlyn & G Accernero def J Leonardi, D Mc Grath, L Mahon & B Wilson 2613 (21-6)

T Arkink, J Fenoglio, L Molochino & P Kite def J Lone, S Scott, S Ryan & M Blake 23 - 22 (18 - 10) B Eddleston, L Barbi, A Torielli & M Marbelli def J Holmes, J Vezzoli, D Horsley & E Piotto 23-21 (17 - 11)

D Piotto, S Gough, N Beccarria & R Basaglia drew with M Cole, J Eddleston, K Wegert 7 L Marbelli 15-15 (13 - 14)

Happening at our club this week:

Call 47762117 or 0487240397 to have your name put on the board, Barefoot bowls played every Thursday between 6-8 pm

Names must be in by 5:30 pm

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

Names in by 1:45 pm

S Richards is on duty for February 17.

Mixed Social Bowls played every Sunday at 1:30 pm

Names into the club by 12:30 pm

On the roster for February 19.

Bar: T Koop

Social Selector: J Hamlyn

Innisfail Ladies Bowls

DESPITE threatening weather, Innisfail ladies had a fantastic afternoon of bowls last Wednesday.

Lyn Stevenson, Bev Anderson and Helen Paterson proved too strong for Eileen Hamann, Diana O’Brien and Jan Dunn: 17 - 10.

Sue Morrison, Dell Steve and Catarina Cook defeated Maisie Smith, Ann Rule and Margaret Johnson 24 - 9.

Innisfail Ladies are looking forward to South Johnstone Bowls Club’s season-opening day on Tuesday, February 28.

Innisfail will have a team playing in the TFNQ Graded Fours at Edmonton on Tuesday, March 7.

TFNQDBATropical Far North Queensland District Bowls Association

THE District Championship Singles were played over the weekend of February 11 - 12 at West Cairns and Marlin Coast Bowls Clubs.

Last Saturday’s games produced 16 players who progressed to compete in the knockout games at Marlin Coast on Sunday morning.

These eight players went head-to-head in the second round to move to the third round.

Jason Walford def Wayne Petroholis 25 - 19.

Ben Moore def Craig Riddell 25 - 20.

Kim Mitchell def Steve Henson 25 - 17.

Michael de Vries def Michael Frese 25 - 20.

In the afternoon, Ben Moore, def Jason Walford 25 - 9.

Due to Michael de Vries’s ill health, the semi-final game between de Vries and Kim Mitchell game had to be suspended at 13 - 11. It will continue this Saturday, February 18, at 10.00 am at Marlin Coast.

The winner of this game will then play Ben Moore in the final match.

The final of the District pairs between Nicholas Twining/Lyle Braggins and Don Lawton/David Goode will be played this Saturday, February 18, at Marlin Coast.

Tully Bowls

SUNDAY, February 12, 2023:

After our well attended AGM we played bowls for the afternoon.

26 players braved humid conditions to play 2 rinks of 2-4-2 and 3 Rinks of triples.

Team 1Peter Smith/Pam Staier (15) v Team 2 Rod Bradley/Jason Harrop (6)

Team 3 Rod Tennant/Val Zamora (6) v Team 4 Sean Prinisloo (11)

Team 5 Ray Downing/Val Bradley/Donte (15) v Team 6 Joanne Townsend/Toni Buick/Carmen Milini (15)

Team 7 Lou Brunello/Rita Hudson/Colleen Tennant/ (21) v Team 8 Gavin Buick/Pauline Edwards/Joy Pears (4)

Team 9 Rita Pezzutto/Avis Ray/ Kobie (7) v Team 10 Robyn Brunello/Anthony Fitzsimmons/Bev Harrop,Betty Cochrane (17)

After smoko

Team 1 (8) v Team 3 (10). Team 2 (11) v Team 4 (13). Team 5 (14) v Team 8 (6). Team 9 (8) v Team 6 (11).

Team 10 (15) v Team 7 (6).

Winning Team out of the hat was Team 4 Sean Prinisloo and Joan Mercer.

Sunday Bowls start at 1.30 pm to 5 pm. Thursday afternoon start 4.30 pm to 6.30 pm. Names in 30min before game please.

New Bowlers are always welcome. Drop in to see us or ring the club on 40681230. Cheers!

Innisfail Men’s Bowls

LAST Thursday afternoon’s social bowls winning team was Gordon Goes, Doug Juhas, David Irwin and newcomer Robert Croatto.

Visitors and new members most welcome with names in by 12.30 pm for a 1.00 pm start.

The master, Sergio Dalla Pozza continued his winning ways by defeating Warren Sinclair in the second round of the A-Grade singles competition. Please check the notice board for any club games to be played and organise to play them.

This Saturday, the next round of the Barry Wallis Shield will be played at Innisfail so come down and support our club teams.

Patron Ren Cantatore, who turned 90, received his Patriarch badge on Sunday, February 12.

Last Friday, Sergio Dalla Pozza (left) and Warren Sinclair battled it out in the second round of the Innisfail Bowls Club A-Grade Men’s Singles with Dalla Pozza, the convincing winner.

Golf News

Innisfail Golf Club

LAST week the rain continued last week, and golfers prayed Cyclone Gabbi did not affect play in last Saturday’s Custom Build Constructions Greens Keeper Revenge.

A huge thank you to the grounds crew for getting the course mowed in preparation for last weekend’s golf.

IGC Rules & Etiquette

Last week’s Quiz

Darren’s ball comes to rest in a greenside bunker. When making his back swing for the stroke, he touches a leaf in the bunker with his club.

What is the ruling?

A: No penalty

B: Darren receives a one penalty stroke

C: Darren receives a two penalty strokes

Answer: A. Before playing a ball in a bunker, a player may remove loose impediments and movable obstructions. Rule 12.2a.

This week’s Quiz

When Ryan’s ball is on the putting green, there is no penalty for his caddie marking and lifting the ball without Ryan’s authorisation?

True or False?

Vaughan Smith shot out of the gates with 26 points and just nudged out Jake Cockle by one shot at Wednesday’s All Sporters on February 1.

Results

1st: Vaughan Smith 26pts

2nd: Jake Cockle 25pts

3rd: Ned Jacobson 22pts

NTP - Kevin Walsh

Aided by an eagle on eight, Jake Cockle just got home over Darryl Gould and Luke Peters in Friday Sporters competition on February 3.

Results

1st: Jake Cockle 20pts

2nd: Darryl Gould 19pts c/b

3rd: Luke Peters 19pts

NTP - John Slater

On February 4, a good field braved hot and humid conditions to play in the Innisfail Skip Bin Monthly Medal.

By the look of the prize run down, one needed to

play in the morning to get a good shot at the tittle, with nine out of the top 10 winners in the morning tee times.

Early on, Paul Tattam was in the running with another solid round of 67 nett, after winning January’s Monthly Medal, however it was short lived.

Jack Johnston played a great back nine to be three under his handicap to get through on a countback and Andrew Ghietti shooting another solid round for 68 nett.

Johnston is in the running for the Medal of Medals in June.

Results

1st: Jack Johnston 67 Nett c/b

2nd: Paul Tattam 67 Nett

3rd: Andrew Ghietti 68 Nett c/b

NTPs

1/10 - Colin Lyons 4/13 - Andrew Rose 7/16 - Darryl Gould

2/11 - Trent Mann 5/14 - Ian McDonald 8/17 -

3/12 - Peter Stenzel 6/15 - Andrew Rose 9/18Troy Jones

Upcoming Events

Wednesday All Sporters competition - from 12.00 pm and 3.00 pm

Friday Sporters competition - from 12.00 pm and 2.00 pm - online bookings

Vaughan Smith won Wednesday’s Sporters on February 1.

Jake Cockle, winner of Friday’s Sporters on February 3.

Paul Tattam finished second in the Monthly Medal on February 4.

Local fighter, Quinton Smith ready to rumble in Townsville and Cairns

MARIA GIRGENTI

LOCAL fighter Quinton Smith from Athlete Muay Thai, Innisfail, started 2023 in cracking style with his second professional boxing fight in Townsville this Saturday, February 18.

Smith steps into the ring at the inaugural Battle at the Port professional/amateur event hosted by Knuckles Boxing Gym is at Quayside Terminal, Townsville.

An accomplished kickboxer, Smith has stacks of titles and belts to his name as a professional and amateur fighter with an impressive Muay Thai record of 38 fights and 33 wins.

Last July, Smith made his professional boxing debut against Toowoomba's Stoneleigh Jackson in Brisbane.

Smith, who is extremely tough, trains hard, possesses all the skills, and will come forward and apply constant pressure.

In the Co-main professional bout, Quinton' da Hitman' Smith from Innisfail/Redlynch Boxing is up against Brayden' Tank' Rawlins from Knuckles Boxing Gym Townsville over four three-minute rounds in the Welterweight division.

After only a short amateur career, Rawlins will make his professional debut.

On short notice, Rawlins entered last year's Knuckleman event, gave away weight and lost his bout

by a split decision in a very close encounter against a seasoned fighter.

Rawlins, who has been in full training and is super pumped for his debut, has excellent movement, is super slick and can load up when needed.

The undercard bout features an epic Townsville versus Ingham battle with a match-up between George 'Lion' Lacey and Josh 'Super' Shannon.

Townsville's Lacey Clan, a local A-Grade football player who returns after a long layoff, is strong, nuggety in stature, knows how to throw his hands, and will come forward and apply pressure.

Shannon, an up-and-coming, incredibly talented fighter from Ingham, will use his height and reach to his advantage. He is constantly moving well and knows how to throw all the shots.

Smith's last fight in December 2022 ended in a loss against Joshua West for the WMO Australian Middleweight title belt at the Powerhouse Fight Series IX in Mackay.

On March 25, Smith will then feature in the soldout Elite Fight Series King of the North Super 4 68kg Eliminator hosted by Explosive Fight Promotions in Cairns.

Fighters are in the running for a $5,000 purse and King of the North title bragging rights.

Cassowary Coast Junior Rugby Union Club awards presentation

Quinton Smith is up against Brayden Rawlins from Townsville in his second professional boxing bout this Saturday in Townsville.

Cassowary Coast Under 15 Girls’ premiership team members and award winners.

Fishing News

RoLy Newton

FISHING PHOTOS

MONTHLY $50 TACKLE WORLD VOUCHER TO BE WON

Please email, post or drop your photos into our office, along with your name, phone number and details of your catch for your chance to win the monthly voucher. Your photo will appear in the following issue of the Wet Tropic Times, and the winner will be drawn on the last Thursday of each month.

info@wettropictimes.com.au PO Box 1100, TULLY, 4854 70 Butler Street, TULLY

nice Grass Sweet Lip. There has also been Queen Fish, Golden Trevally, and a few Doggy and Small Spanish Mackerel caught.

NEW NOMAD SQUIDTREX VIBE HAS ARRIVED

ALTHOUGH last weekend the sea conditions looked perfect from the beach, the westerly wind resulted in sloppy conditions out wide, especially in the morning. The larger boats would have had no problem, but the smaller vessels found the sea conditions quite sloppy once you got wide of the islands.

Most boats reported good catches, although the fishing was challenging at times. Yields of 5 or 6 Coral Trout and a few mixed reef fish were typical.

The spear fishers fared better, with good numbers of Coral Trout, Tuskers, and some nice Crayfish speared.

The deep water rubble patches and wrecks did fish well with Small and Large Mouth Nannygai, Cobia and even the occasional School and Spanish Mackerel.

Large schools of bait were present in the shipping channel, with both Blue Fin and Mack Tuna feeding on them.

Closer around the islands, I found the fishing challenging, struggling with undersized Nannygai and Grass Sweet Lip. The few positive reports were made by boats fishing very early in the morning, with the bite shutting down once the sun came out. There were also schools of Mack and Blue Fin Tuna feeding around the coastal and island headlands. I struggled big-time, going to the smallest metal slug I could cast. I then proceeded to pull out the two fish I managed to hook. I was starting to think that I am losing my touch and, at times touching on depression. This, of course, is part of the game of chasing Tuna; they can sometimes be very frustrating.

Those that were successful around the islands managed to find some just legal Nannygai and some

Most coastal river estuaries are still recovering from the rain, with the water being too dirty for good fishing. With the smaller tides we are experiencing this week, the water will clear; however, this will only give some estuaries a brief window as we expect more rain and larger tides by this coming weekend. There has been some nice Barra caught along with Tarpon and Flathead.

The Hinchinbrook region fishes better in these conditions and is worth the drive. The fishing was still slow due to the small run in the tide; however, those that put in the effort have been rewarded with some nice Barra, Grunter and Fingermark over the last week.

At this early stage of the week, the forecast for this weekend is around 15 to 20 knots of wind and rain. They are forecasting the worst of the rain should have passed by Saturday, so hopefully, there will still be some fishing opportunities. The early morning high tide will suit those that would like to fish for Grunter around the edge of the sandbars and rubble in the Hinchinbrook area. These tides are also ideal for landbased fish for Barra, Grunter and Salmon along the sheltered foreshores in areas between the Tully river and Lucinda.

The middle and upper regions of rivers, such as the Johnstone, Tully, Murray and Herbert rivers, are fishing very well at present for both Barra and Sooty Grunter. Fish around the entrances of the feeder creeks into the main river or around the various backwaters. If the rivers are flooded, anglers then go on to fish the feeder creeks and drains. This can be very rewarding; however, be extremely careful of crocodiles and ask for permission before entering private property. Wrecking a farmer's headland in muddy conditions will result in closures.

Good Fishing, Roly Newton, Tackle World Tully

TIDE TIMES

LUCINDA FE B RUARY

JOHNSTONE RIVER FEBRUARY

HULL HEADS FEBRUARY

Tony Harker with a very nice queenfish from the Islands.

Pro Staffer Ryan Sanger with a nice channel barra caught on a Lucky Craft Pointer

SPORT

Local fighter, Quinton Smith ready

to rumble

in Townsville and Cairns... Page 18

Etty Bay Surf Lifesaving Club awards

MARIA GIRGENTI

LAST December, Etty Bay Surf

Lifesaving Club held its presentation night and celebrated the achievements of its competitors and members in 2022. It also recognised the hard work, dedication and service their EB members contribute to making the season fun, educational and memorable for the club and the local community.

Junior Club Championship winners:

Under 6 Male: Nash Di Palma

U6 Female: Keira Greven

U7 Male: Teo Nucifora and Noah Di

Palma

U7 Female: Breanna Brown

U8 Female: Ava McElhinney; R/U: Sophie Molenaar and Gabby Nucifora

U9 Male: Lucas Blair; R/Up: Nico

Azzopardi

U9 Female: Penelope Blair; R/U: Aria Di

Palma

U10 Male: Ned Power; R/U: Cody

McElhinney

U10 Female: Isadora Nucifora

U12 Male: Keean Greven; R/U: Noah

Cook

U12 Female: Ariana Nucifora; R/U: Ella

Power

U13 Female: Isabelle Peake; R/U: Trinity Vallis

U14 Female: Sasha Darveniza

Participation medals: Mason Borsato, Brandon Borsato and Noah Sharrock

Junior Award winners

Nipper of the Year: Ariana Nucifora

Iron Man (Club Championships -

Fibreglass Board): Keean Greven

Iron Maiden (Club Championships -

Fibreglass Board): Isabelle Peake

Most Aggregate Carnival Points (All Carnivals): Isadora Nucifora

Best and Fairest Boy or Girl (Branch): Isadora Nucifora and Isabelle Peake

(drawn on points)

Most Improved Boy and Girl: Edward Power and Penelope Blair

Encouragement Award Boy and Girl: Keean Greven and Aria Di Palma

Team Trophy: Under 10: Cody McElhinney, Isadora Nucifora, Edward Power and Noah Sharrock

Senior Club Championship Awards

U15 Female: Charlotte Cook; Runner

Up: Eden Cini

U17 Female: Daisy Conroy; Runner Up: Kari Cini

U17 Male: Kodi Worth; Runner Up: Kai Greven

U19 Male: Baylee Worth

Open Female: Natalie Cook

Open Male: Baylee Worth

Master Male: Peter Greven

Open Ironman: Baylee Worth

Open Iron Maiden: Natalie Cook

Best Cadet: Charlotte Cookcompeted in all beach carnivals, two pool rescue carnivals, 44 patrol hours, 14 water safety hours, + 14 water safety hours with Ironman and GBR swims.

Promising Cadet: Eden Cini - 32 patrol hours, 14 water safety hours, attended the ANZAC Day parade and assisted at the Innisfail Show stall.

Under 18 Lifesaver of the Year: Natalie Cook - 32 patrol hours, 14 water safety hours, including Ironman, Green Island swim and triathlons, competed in all surf carnivals, including North Aussies and Branch Championship lifesaving, winning her age group.

Senior Lifesaver of the Year: Baylee Worth - 32 patrol hours, gained his Crewies award, attended carnivals/ branch carnival and assisted with training/water safety.

All Round Lifesaver of the Year: Peter Greven - Patrol captain, 75 patrol hours, 35 water safety hours, JAC

President, Age manager and Masters age champion.

Rookie Official of the Year: Blaise Cini

An official of the Year: Stuart Turrell

Most Patrol Hours: Jesse Witt, Club captain - 119 hours

Club Person of the Year: Francesca Rosa - JAC Secretary, photographer, media and social media guru.

Anyone keen to take on a role, be part of the committee or obtain their bronze medallion, please contact the club.

Ariana Nucifora - Nipper of the Year.

Penelope Blair and Edward Power - Most Improved Nipper Boy and Girl.

Charlotte Cook - Best Cadet.

Baylee Worth (Senior Lifesaver of the Year) and Natalie Cook (Under 18 Lifesaver of the Year).

Peter Greven - All Round Lifesaver of the Year.

Blaise Cini - Rookie Official of the Year.

Francesca Rosa (Club Person of the Year) and Nico Azzopardi (U9 Male runner up).