Wet Tropic Times, 2023, March 23, Newspaper Edition

Good Counsel Primary School Year 6S students went green for St Patrick's

Kathy, Michelle, Joy, Maree and Mike Dinan at the St Patrick's Day dinner at at the Tully Country Club...

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WEATHER

Regional Rainfall Report

Good Counsel Primary School celebrates St Patrick's Day

MARIA GIRGENTI

LAST Tuesday, Good Counsel Primary School students, staff and tuck shop volunteers celebrated St Patrick's Day by wearing all things green.

Celebrating the St Patrick's Day tradition has continued for over 1,000 years and is observed on the anniversary of his death in the 5th century. Patrick was born in Roman Britain in the late 4th century and, at the age of 16, was taken as a slave to Ireland. Patrick escaped to become a missionary and brought Christianity to Ireland. He became a legendary figure and is considered the Patron Saint of Ireland. Today, approximately 30% of Australia's population is believed to have some Irish ancestry.

OUR TEAM

Managing Editor/ Director

Sari Russo management@ wettropictimes.com.au

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Production Clare Watson designs@ wettropictimes.com.au

Reception/ Administration

Katriina Hyytinen info@ wettropictimes.com.au

OUR DETAILS

Office: 22 Lannercost Street

Ingham, QLD 4850

Phone:

(07) 4776 0485

Website: wettropictimes.com.au

Email: info@ wettropictimes.com.au

Mail: PO Box 1100 Tully QLD 4854

Spiritual food with Jess

His word is our weapon

PSALM 91 came into my mind as I sat and asked the Lord what to write about this week. Psalm 91 has a lot of words about God protecting and defending his children.

Then the Holy Spirit spoke to me and said that the words in the Bible aren't just to confront (or comfort?) us in everyday life, but His words are a mighty weapon. While I already know this, I take note that when the Lord brings something to our minds again, it means it's important, and He's wanting to talk about this with us.

Take the helmet of salvation and the Sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.

Ephesians 6:17 NIV

For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged

sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and Spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.

Hebrews 4:12 NIV

One piece of armour we all have is the Sword of the Spirit - the Word of the Lord.

'The Sword is appointed to be polished, to be grasped with the hand; it is sharpened and polished, made ready for the hand of the slayer.

Ezekiel 21:11 NIV

Although many other weapons were in the Roman soldier's arsenal,

MACHINE GUN PREACHER Sam Childers

Where: Cross Culture Church, 28/32 Townsville Rd, Ingham

Date: Friday 24th March 2023

Time: 7pm

the sword Paul mentions in Ephesians 6:17 was unusual. Its blade was only twenty-two inches long, and the sword was lightweight but a formidable weapon in the hands of a skilled warrior. Sharpened on both sides and the tip, the weapon was very effective in the hand of skilled soldiers.

The Sword is classified

as an offensive weapon but can also be used defensively, as is true for the Word of God.

While we have the Sword, we must remember to put on the whole armour of God. There is nothing new under the sun, and God has given us everything we need to take a stand.

IGGULDENS

NEW ARRIVALS:& IGGsToo

JOGGERS; FOOTIE BOOTS; BIKE PANTS; STARFISH THONGS, SLIDES; DAWGS THONGS, CLOGS, Z-SANDALS; CANVAS/ WASHABLE HATS; COMFY STRETCH WORKWEAR.

IGGULDENS 17 Butler St, TULLY IGGsToo Banyan Plaza

Teacher Kiara Ridolfi, Jade Grimaz (school officer) and Good Counsel Primary School Year 4RS students donned green for St Patrick's Day.

St Patrick's Day celebrations in Tully

MARIA GIRGENTI

ON March 18, the Tully Irish Group hosted the third St Patrick's Day dinner at Tully Country Club, which attracted 170 adults and 20 children, with people travelling from Townsville and Cairns. This event provided a fantastic opportunity for Irish people and their descendants in the local region to

gather and celebrate everything great about the Irish heritage.

After receiving loads of glowing feedback, this year's third annual event was a sell-out.

A special thank you to Jane Henley, Moira Cunningham, Sharon Karsikas, and their faithful team of volunteers, who ensured the night went off with a bang.

The night commenced with a St Patrick's Mass at St Clare's Catholic Church, Tully, organised by Sue Chappel, where the younger generation took part in some of the readings.

At Tully Country Club, guests enjoyed live music from the 'Celtic Nights' band, which featured Sharon Karsikas, Rod Collins, Risto Kariskas, Hilkka and Sera

Hughes, who kept the crowd entertained with Irish music, jokes, and games.

Highlights on the night included an Irish sing-along, Irish dancing display, lucky door prize, lagerphone and spoon playing competition, as well as prizes for the best dressed Irish man and woman.

On the menu was authentic Irish fare, including lamb chop Irish stew, braised steak and Guinness pie, braised savoy cabbage, smoked ham hock and green peas, rosemary mash and soda bread, catered by Liam Lowe.

Tully Irish Group Facebook page started in 2021, which sparked interest in getting St Patrick's Day celebrations up and running in Tully again.

Jane Henley contacted Sharon Karsikas (nee Murphy), who used to play at St Patrick's Day gigs for years, and soon plans were underway to hold a special St Patrick's Day event in Tully.

The first event took place in 2021 at Feluga Hotel, and due to its popularity, organisers needed a bigger space, so since 2022, the Tully Country Club has been an ideal venue.

Rohan Murphy, Cole Johnston and Mac Waters at the St Patrick's Day Opening Mass.

Children who took part in the Mass at St Clare's Catholic Church, Tully.

Members of the Tully Irish community entertained the crowd with their unique chair dancing.

Members of the Chappel and Cunningham family enjoyed the traditional Irish meal.

The Celtic Nights band playing at the Tully Country Club

Cardwell Meals on Wheels Horses on beaches

LEE PORTER, SECRETARY, CARDWELL MEALS ON WHEELS

CARDWELL Meals on Wheels recently held a training session for its volunteers at Terry and Mamiko’s restaurant to update requirements during interaction with meal recipients. Although the primary function is to deliver meals to its clients, it is also an opportunity to see if any further needs may be necessary to assist them. It was also an opportunity to farewell and thank Colleen and Rod Tennent, who have been volunteering for the service for 20 years and have decided to retire.

Their valuable contribution and display of community spirit has greatly benefited the organization, recipients, and the town, and the meeting wished them all the best for the future.

If anyone requires Meals on Wheels services or wishes to become a volunteer deliverer, please get in touch with Lisa Cartwright, Convenor, on 0428980104 or email cardwellmow@ hotmail.com. Meals are provided every Monday, Wednesday and Friday at the cost of $11 per meal, and they are sourced from Churches of Christ.

CASSOWARY COAST REGIONAL COUNCIL

RECENTLY, residents have raised concerns regarding interactions between horses and users on beaches and foreshores across the Cassowary Coast region.

Following community consultation, new local laws were adopted by CCRC. These laws, which have been in effect since October 2022, state the riding or taking of horses on all beaches and foreshores across the Cassowary Coast region is prohibited unless signed.

Subordinate Local Law No. 4 (Local Government Controlled Areas & Roads)

2022, Schedule 2 (10)(10) states that in all reserves, it is prohibited to take or bring an animal unless otherwise permitted by official sign.

Whilst horse riding on beaches and foreshores may be considered as part of future planning, at this stage, this activity remains prohibited.

Community consultation will take place as part of future planning.

CCRC has several local laws that apply across the region, and for further details on local laws, please visit www. cassowarycoast.qld.gov.au/local-laws.

CCRC wished to thank community members for their adherence to the Local Laws as applicable.

A lime legacy transfer to Australian Agricultural Minerals

THEWilkins family founded Miriwinni Lime and Gypsum (MLG) during the 1970s after they identified a growing need to optimise the condition of their cane farm soils to improve crop yields. This challenge saw them secure their first limestone deposit at Mount Garnet in Far North Queensland.

Following this, the company expanded to service, first to its neighbours and then established a more sophisticated supply, distribution, and spreading network in North Queensland. During

this time, other mineral deposits like dolomite, calcium silicate and gypsum were secured to supply the growing demand for sweeter soil.

In 2021 Australian Agricultural Minerals (AAM) purchased MLG and were provided with the opportunity to continue the legacy of the Wilkins family. In 2023, MLG, under the guidance of AAM, remain committed to proudly source, supply and spread quality minerals that improve soil and crop performance across a wide variety of

farming operations. With the ownership change, MLG remains 100% Australianowned and operated.

In fact, many of the same staff, including a few of the Wilkins family, will be those you hear from when contacting MLG for your next enquiry or order.

Despite soaring grower input costs, MLG has kept cost increases on all their products to a minimum, thanks to local sourcing in North Queensland. Economically, farmers who understand the fundamentals of nutrient availability

with improved soil pH and nutrient balance often tell the team at MLG its costs them more not to use the MLG products in order to maintain good crop yield.

Delivering high-value minerals and services to enhance grower success drives the MLG team—a reputation of more than just suppliers but as trusted farming partners.

For more information, visit miriwinnilime.com.au or call us on 0740432200.

Debbie Clancy (Treasurer), Colleen & Rod Tennent, Lee Porter (Secretary) in front.

Hidden Gem in Mena Creek

The Mena Creek Hotel is a hidden gem in the heart of Mena Creek, that has been looking after locals for nearly 100 years. This historic establishment serves up delicious meals and refreshing drinks for both lunch and dinner, 7 days a week.

The pub’s charming, laid-back atmosphere transports you back in time with good old-fashioned country hospitality, and features an expansive wooden deck for outdoor dining in the breeze. But it’s the food that really steals the show. The menu boasts a wide range of chef-made options, from succulent steaks and chicken parmis to vegetarian and gluten-free dishes. And let’s not forget about the bar - they’ve got a great selection of beers, wines, and spirits to choose from.

What’s even better is that the Mena Creek Hotel is just a stone’s throw away from Paronella Park. After a day of exploring the beautiful Park, stop by the hotel for a meal and a drink.

Check out their Facebook page as well to find out about their regular Jag the Joker jackpots, and semi-regular Sunday sessions with live music out on the deck.

Overall, dining at the Mena Creek Hotel is an experience you won’t forget. The delicious food, friendly staff, and historic ambiance make it a must-visit destination in the area. So don’t miss out on this amazing country pub - it’s well worth a visit!

The sky's the limit for local author/illustrator Matilda Bishop

"Unfortunately, bats do get a bad rap due to rumours and misconceptions.

WET TROPIC

Times

"Before I started doing the writing for this book, I was under the impression they were quite dangerous to touch or be close to.

"Realistically, the chances of them carrying diseases are not very common, but unfortunately, they get that reputation."

Bishop has a profound understanding of creatures that humans perceive as dangerous that are just doing the job the ecosystem requires of them.

Bishop especially wished to thank Lotsa Print and Signage and Batsoc for the incredible opportunity.

Last November, Bishop secured a position as a Content Curator at AdaptAd Marketing and Communication, which involves managing their clients and social media accounts, as well as working in print production on billboards and signage.

Her latest book is available at The Green House Environment Shop, the Cairns Botanic Gardens Visitor Centre, and Tolga Bat Hospital.

The Bats and Trees Society of Cairns hopes to organise an online store for future book sales, with one book priced at $12.50 or two books for $20.

MARIA GIRGENTI

AT the age of 23, local author/illustrator Matilda Bishop has launched her seventh book.

Bishop's new educational workbook, The Big Book of Bat-tivities, in collaboration with the Bats and Trees Society of Cairns (Batsoc), is focused on the conservation of the endangered Spectacled Flying-fox.

This book launch occurred last December during the Bat and Trees Society of Cairns (Batsoc's) Annual General Meeting held at Comino's House, Edge Hill.

The workbook aims to influence audiences to change their minds about the misunderstood specimen and learn to love and protect them as they are essential for the survival of our ecosystem.

Bishop stated she hoped this book creates awareness of the conservation of the vulnerable spectacled flying foxes and why we need to protect them at all costs.

Bishop, born and raised in Mena Creek, did her primary schooling at Mena Creek State School, Good Counsel Primary and secondary education at Good Counsel College.

Her career as an author/illustrator started at the age of 14 when she published her first novel 'The Parrot Party at Paronella Park' for the award-winning tourist destination at Mena Creek.

Recently, Bishop's lifelong dream came true as she is now an artwork contributor for Australia Geographic, and her West Australian land snail illustrations and 'From the Field' are featured in the current March-April issue.

Her designs will be available for purchase at the Habitat Sanctuaries and 1 Billion Trees campaign stall at the Sydney Royal Easter Show from April 6 - 17 and at the brand new store opening at Circular Quay.

All purchases of products with her designs will go towards planting a tree in habitat sanctuaries for animals across Australia and throughout the world.

¼ red cabbage, shredded finely

¼ lettuce, shredded finely

½ medium carrot, julienned or grated

½ apple, julienned

1 tablespoon seed mix (pepita and sunflower)

Dressing:

2 tablespoons natural yoghurt

1 garlic clove, crushed or grated

1 red chilli, deseeded and finely chopped (optional)

2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

2 tablespoons honey

2 teaspoons extra virgin light olive oil

Light and Crunchy Coleslaw

Serves: 8

Prep time: 15 minutes

Cook time: 0 minutes

1 serve per portion

Ingredients

2 small red radishes OR half a small red onion, sliced thinly

1 tablespoon lemon juice

Method

MARINATE radish or onion in lemon juice for 5-10 minutes to lightly pickle.

COMBINE prepared vegetables and apple in large bowl by tossing lightly

PREPARE the dressing by combining the yoghurt, garlic, chilli, lemon juice and honey in a bowl.

Gradually whisk in the oil.

DRIZZLE the salad with the lemon yogurt dressing just before serving.

GARNISH salad by sprinkling seed mix over the top.

Recipe courtesy of Bella Maugeri, Brisbane City Night Branch

Bishop especially wanted to thank Chrissie Goldrick, Editor-in-Chief of Australian Geographic, for this incredible opportunity and Paronella Park's Mark and Judy Evans.

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/.

At the time of production, Sari was in Townsville giving birth to her first child. We wish her a speedy recovery and you will hear from her in next week’s edition!

Matilda Bishop from Mena Creek has released her seventh novel 'The Big Book of Battivities.'

Hinchinbrook Agriculture Workforce Forum, A Roadmap For Soft Plastics and 2023 Youth Week - Outer Limits Adventure Program

Hinchinbrook Agriculture Workforce Forum

As a response to industry labour and skills workforce challenges, the Agricultural Workforce Forum will provide a platform to educate producers and agribusinesses across the food supply chain to understand workforce options and opportunities.

Working Holiday Makers, PALM Scheme and Skilled Migrant workforces will be discussed, along with providing information packages, highlighting current initiatives, and providing contact personnel to access workforce streams. This forum will enhance your strategic workforce planning capabilities by providing options to future proof your workforce.

Date: Friday 14 April 2023

Time: 12.30pm

Where: JL Kelly Theatre

76 Townsville Road Ingham

Cost: Free

RSVP: Tuesday 11 April 2023

For further information or to RSVP, please phone Council or email events@hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au.

A Roadmap For Soft Plastics

Did you know that Australians lead the world in plastic use, discarding an average of 60kg per person per year?

Much of this is in the form of soft plastics used in packaging, clear plastic film and plastic bags. How do you tell the difference between soft and hard plastics? The rule of thumb is, if you can ‘scrunch’ it, then it is soft plastic.

Unlike hard plastic items such as containers and meat trays, soft plastics should never be placed in the yellow lidded kerbside bin.

Hard plastics are not easily recycled and cause issues with equipment at recycling centres and contaminate the recycling stream.

Up until recently, the Redcycle program through Coles and Woolworths has given Hinchinbrook residents an outlet to recycle their soft plastics.

This program unfortunately discontinued in late 2022, and the question for many residents now is where do we put this hard to manage product?

The answer is in your red lidded kerbside bin only.

A soft plastics taskforce made up of the major supermarkets has been engaged to find an interim solution to restore soft plastic recycling across the country, with trials planned for late 2023 and a full recycling program to be gradually rolled out in 2024.

In the meantime, remember to refuse, reduce and re-use soft plastics where possible.

TYTO RV Park Now Open Council would like to advise that the TYTO RV Park reopened on Thursday 16 March 2023.

For further information, please phone the Hinchinbrook Visitor Information Centre on 4776 4792.

Country Music, You and Beer Tour

- Brooke McClymont and Adam Eckersley

It was always going to be special when two of Australia's finest singersongwriters announced they were

teaming up to release their first album in 2018. Country artists, and husband and wife duo, Brooke McClymont and Adam Eckersley released their debut album Adam and Brooke in 2018, charting at number one on the ARIA Country Album chart and gained the duo four Golden Guitar nominations and an ARIA nomination.

Date: Friday 24 March 2023

Time: 7.30pm

Where: JL Kelly Theatre

Cost: $59.90

To book tickets, please visit Council's website, Events Calendar page.

Sing Along: Encanto (Celebrating 100 Years of Disney Animation)

Sing along to all the songs in Walt Disney Animation Studios' "Encanto."

The Sing-Along version of the film features on-screen lyrics as you watch your favourite musical numbers, including "The Family Madrigal," "Surface Pressure," "We Don't Talk About Bruno, " "Dos Oruquitas" and more.

Date: Tuesday 4 April 2023

Time: 10.30am

Where: JL Kelly Theatre

Cost: $10

For further information, please visit Council's website, Events Calendar page.

Sing Along: Moana (Celebrating 100 Years of Disney Animation) Moana Waialiki is a sea voyaging enthusiast and the only daughter of a chief in a long line of navigators. When her island's fishermen can't catch any fish and the crops fail, she learns that the demigod Maui

caused the blight by stealing the heart of the goddess, Te Fiti. The only way to heal the island is to persuade Maui to return Te Fiti's heart, so Moana sets off on an epic journey across the Pacific.

Date: Thursday 6 April 2023

Time: 10.30am

Where: JL Kelly Theatre

Cost: $10

For further information, please visit Council's website, Events Calendar page.

Sing Along: The Lion King (Celebrating 100 Years of Disney Animation)

Sing along to all the songs in Walt Disney Animation Studios' "The Lion King."

A young lion prince is cast out of his pride by his cruel uncle, who claims he killed his father. While the uncle rules with an iron paw, the prince grows up beyond the Savannah, living by a philosophy: No worries for the rest of your days. But when his past comes to haunt him, the young prince must decide his fate: Will he remain an outcast or face his demons and become what he needs to be?

Date: Tuesday 11 April 2023

Time: 10.30am

Where: JL Kelly Theatre

Cost: $10

For further information, please visit Council's website, Events Calendar page.

2023 Youth Week - Outer Limits

Adventure Program

Local youths are invited to team up to play in the 2023 Youth Week

Half Yearly Rate Notices have been issued and are due for payment on or before Friday 31 March 2023.

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.

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 of the Rate Incentive Scheme will be drawn at Council’s General Meeting held on Wednesday 26 April 2023.

If you have not received your rate notice, please contact Council.

Outer Limits Adventure Program to be held at the Ingham Showgrounds. Youth can expect to engage in catapulting, archery tag and many more activities throughout the day.

Teams will be put together in age groups of 8 to 12 years and 12 to 16 and up.

Entry is free!

Date: Wednesday 12 April 2023

Time: 9.30am to 3.00pm

Where: Ingham Showgrounds

17 Cooper Street Ingham

Pre-event registrations is essential as numbers are limited.

To register, please visit Council's website, Events Calendar page.

Sing Along: Frozen (Celebrating 100 Years of Disney Animation)

Sing along to all the songs in Walt Disney Animation Studios' "Frozen." Haunted by the moment her magic nearly killed her younger sister Anna, Elsa has isolated herself, spending every waking minute trying to suppress her growing powers. Her mounting emotions trigger the magic, accidentally setting off an eternal winter that she can't stop. She fears she's becoming a monster and that no one, not even her sister, can help her.

Date: Thursday 13 April 2023

Time: 10.30am

Where: JL Kelly Theatre

Cost: $10

For further information, please visit Council's website, Events Calendar page.

With Lisa and Michael Godfrey Tropical Gardening

Let's talk colour foliage and flowers

Calatheas

CALATHEAS are commonly called prayer, rattlesnakes and peacock plants. There are over 200 species, and they are a flowering plant from areas like Africa, famous for their broad, green and colourful leaves. They can be a herbaceous perennial (a plant whose growth dies down annually but whose roots or other underground parts survive).

Calatheas can be quite temperamental if not positioned in the right area.

It's a bit confusing; they like low light but bright indirect light, but definitely not full sun. If they get too much sun, the leaves will burn, and they will lose their colour. Calatheas like a

Moist but not soggy soil; they like to be watered but not over-watered or sitting in a saucer of water.

In our cooler weather (haha) than usual, you may notice that the leaves are curling. They do not like cold weather either – very fussy.

One great thing about calatheas is there is no maintenance, only pulling off the old leaves - no pruning – slow growing and Great for terrariums.

Unlike most other indoor plants, calatheas are non-toxic to people and animals, so they are an excellent choice for the home.

Calatheas don't need a specific fertilizer. We at 'as green as garden centre' love organic link, which now has changed from a powdered form to a slow-release pellet. Always fertilize in the warmer growing months to create more plants, as calatheas can be divided by root division. If you can separate them with some roots, the plants will grow and always use a quality potting mix such as Searles premium.

If you choose a cheaper quality potting mix, make sure you add some more fertilizer to the mix to give the plant

some nutrients. Let's look at potting mix this way; if I were to eat a dry bit of toast with nothing on it, it wouldn't give me much zest. Dividing and repotting is best done in spring and summer. If you have a great selection of calathea's, then you can make up your own potting mix.

Potting mix recipe:

50% potting mix – good quality

20% orchid bark

20% charcoal

10% perlite – could add some worm casings or use coconut coir fibre as well.

This mixture helps with sufficient moisture while draining excess water to avoid overwatering and waterlogging.

Calathea's and pests, well, they have a few. Sometimes it depends on the environment the plants are in. If they are packed in a garden with no airflow,

this can attract aphids – mealybugs and spider mites. To help control these, use trifend (contact bug spray), soapy water or white oil, which will suffocate the bugs. They can also get fungus gnats; this usually happens if they are planted in pots. To help prevent this problem, treat them with neem oil or white oil. Also, an organic solution is to cover the top of the soil with organic diatomaceous earth (de) or stones so they will not be able to multiply.

While we are on the subject of de, what is it? Diatomaceous earth (de) is a natural and organic product suitable for use in certified organic enterprises. Quoting from their pamphlet – when used as an insecticide, the sharp edge of the diatom cuts the exoskeleton of the insect and draws moisture from within

the insect. This is known as desiccation. De can be applied as a dry powder or mixed with water and used as a spray; however, it works best when dry. De is a great product and has many benefits, from gardening to worming animals, but we won't get into that story for another week. (Google it, or we have pamphlets in at as green as garden centre).

Calathea's can be sensitive to minerals and chlorine in tap water, which makes the leaves go yellow. They do prefer rainwater (plenty of it in our area) or filtered water or let tap water stand for a few days.

But overall, they are a beautiful and colourful plant, although their flowers are not much to talk about. There are a few different varieties that can tolerate more sun, such as the Cigar Calathea.

Well, easter is nearly upon us, and hopefully, everyone is getting their vegetable gardens prepared. Fingers crossed for a cracker of a season to grow your own fruit and vegetables. We have a great selection of vines – shrubs, and trees ready for planting.

'As green as garden centre' doesn't just stock plants; we have all the accessories to go with them. Fertilizers (liquid, slow release and pellet) –mulches (cypress, pine bark, red and black mulch, sugar cane, tea tree) –potting mixes (Searles and rocky point premiums and selected varieties) –stakes (bamboo, hardwood, recycled), plant trainer (bamboo, metal) just to name a few. So come for a wander and don't forget pancakes and coffee available this Sunday at 'as green as garden centre'. 'Jam and butters co' will be at the village in the valley markets this Saturday, so come down and enjoy the beautiful markets in the Lions' Park.

Tempt your tastebuds at this year's Innisfail Feast of the Senses

MARIA GIRGENTI

TODAY, this year's Feast of the Senses kicked off in fine fashion with a visit to the award-winning Paronella Park at Mena Creek and a fun 'Gone Troppo Trivia' at the Innisfail RSL.

The Northern Food Trail, sponsored by Trans North, departs tomorrow from ANZAC Park, Innisfail, visiting a host of farms and venues, and includes a gourmet lunch at Mungalli Creek Dairy.

Tomorrow night, guests will indulge in a three-course fine dining experience at the elegant Taste of the Tropics Dinner in the Crown Hotel function room.

It is not too late to join the Southern Food Trail this Saturday, March 25, which includes a delicious lunch, sampling local delicacies from the region at The Pocket, as well as a variety of interesting venues to learn about the fruit industry.

On Saturday afternoon, jump onboard Snapping Tours for a scenic Johnstone River boat cruise whilst relaxing with tropical cocktails, or enjoy the sunset at 5.00 pm.

A three-hour cooking workshop provides a hands-on experience on how to make pro-biotic sodas and no-bake

cakes using local tropical and exotic fruits, along with plenty of taste-testing opportunities.

The biggest of all the festival events is this Sunday's Australian Bananas River Feast.

"We are thrilled the River Feast is almost here," said committee President Ros Jensen.

"Our volunteer committee has worked incredibly hard to deliver this community event, and we are extremely grateful to Australian Bananas and numerous other supporters for their financial support."

With gates open at 9.00 am on Sunday morning, entry is free.

On offer is an amazing array of food and produce stalls, cooking demonstrations and tastings on the Brothers' Leagues Club Canecutter Court stage, and a fantastic lineup of local performers on the RADF River Stage.

This stage is supported by a combined CCRC and State Government Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF) Grant and starts at 9.00 am.

The Rare and Tropical Fruit display by the Cassowary Coast Rare Fruits

Association, sponsored by Soils First is always a highlight.

Patrons can sample everything in the marquee before bidding in the abundant fruit auction at the end of the day.

and will be a hot spot for children of all ages.

Rides cost $5.00 each or $20.00 for an all-day, unlimited-rides wristband. Do not miss this fantastic 'top 10' Queensland event, and for further information, please visit www. feastofthesenses.com.au/events/.

The Kid Zone, situated at the skatepark end of the riverbank, has inflatable rides/ art and craft activities

A wide variety of the region's rare and exotic fruits will be available at this Sunday's Feast of the Senses River Feast.

Hundreds of people are expected to attend this Sunday's River Feast in Innisfail.

The Cassowary Coast Banana Growers' Association marquee at the River Feast is always popular.

Good Counsel Primary School's NAPLAN success

MARIA GIRGENTI

STAFF and students at Good Counsel Primary School in Innisfail, a rural Catholic school with 325 students, are celebrating their outstanding results in NAPLAN.

Between 2019 - 2022, ACARA identified GCPS as the number one Catholic school in Queensland, regarding the highest scoring students. Furthermore, GCPS ranked eleventh in Queensland across all educational

sectors and placed in the top 20 Catholic schools Australia-wide in the same category.

NAPLAN - National Assessment Program - Literacy and Numeracy is an annual assessment for students in Years 3, 5, 7 and 9.

NAPLAN consists of tests in the four areas of reading, writing, conventions of language (spelling, grammar and punctuation) and numeracy.

This nationwide measure enables

parents/carers, teachers, schools, education authorities, governments, and the broader community to determine whether students are developing the crucial literacy and numeracy skills that provide the foundation for other learning.

Principal Liam Kenny attributes this success in part to the introduction of the 'Morning Routine' across the school, an educational approach that provides students with opportunities to practise literacy and numeracy skills daily.

"These positive results are also a combination of early intervention and extension programs, the staff's

commitment to the use of high impact teaching strategies and partnering with parents and carers to allow each student to achieve to their potential."

"Moreover, the school has worked closely with literacy consultants to hone its approach to the teaching of writing. This has positively impacted the NAPLAN results in the areas of writing and conventions of language."

The dedicated staff at Good Counsel Primary School provide a world-class education and achieves the best possible outcomes for the students in their care.

Teacher Teagan Forster with Good Counsel Primary School Year 4F class.

Teacher Kiara Ridolfi and Jade Grimaz (school officer) with Good Counsel Primary School Year 4RS class. Absent: Daniella Stephenson (co-teacher).

Good Counsel Primary School Year 6D class.

Good Counsel Primary School Year 6S class.

Major works completed in Murray Street, Tully

CASSOWARY COAST REGIONAL COUNCIL

THE major $1.87 million Murray Street Upgrade project to upgrade this key road in Tully is now completed.

Murray Street is a key connector road in Tully, and during previous wet seasons, the road experienced potholes, required frequent maintenance and had flooding issues.

These works have renewed vital infrastructure, improved flood immunity by upgrading drainage and improved safety and access by undertaking intersection changes.

The township of Tully and the Cassowary Coast is growing, so the region needs infrastructure and services to accommodate current residents, as well as provide for future population growth.

Another key focus of the project was the creation of jobs and supporting the Cassowary Coast construction industry, with several local contractors and CCRC collaborating for the delivery of the project.

The Works undertaken include replacement/upgrade culverts, installation of kerb and channel upgrades to the Intersection, renewal of

pavement, including the installation of asphalt and replacement of the existing water main.

This project was made possible through joint funding provided by the Australian Government and Cassowary Coast Regional Council.

Australian Government funding of nearly $1.14 million was provided through the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure (LRCI) and Roads to Recovery (R2R) programs,

with Cassowary Coast Regional Council providing the remaining funding of $730,714.

The LRCI program supports councils throughout Australia to deliver priority local road and community infrastructure projects, whilst the R2R program improves safety, accessibility, and economic and social outcomes by supporting the construction and maintenance of local roads.

ONLINE AUCTION

On

WEDNESDAY 29 MARCH

LIVE ONLINE AUCTION - 9AM START

GENERAL GOODS & CHATTELS

HINO TIPPER, JOHN DEERE 3720 2WD TRACTOR, WALKER ZERO TURN MOWER, TRAILER SIGN BOARD, VEHICLES, MINI DIRT BIKE, SCOOTER, BOATS, CAMPER TRAILER, STUDIO SOUND MIXERS, MOBILE SCAFFOLD, SMART PHONES, CAMERAS, TELEVISIONS, FURNITURE, CAFE TABLES, JEWELLERY, BRANDED HANDBAGS, 5 PCE DINING SETTINGS, TOOLS & HARDWARE, OVERLOCKER

VIEWING

Note:

REAL ESTATE

• Queenslander 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom home

• Front timber deck

• Newly painted exterior

• Established gardens on 6,264sqm yard

• Workshop and greenhouse

• Dog/chook pen

AUCTIONEERS

This lovely three bedroom and two bathroom home is a great opportunity for anyone looking for a great place to invested or to live.

• 3 bedrooms/2bathroom/1 carport

• Neat and Tidy Kitchen

• A cyclone shelter/workshop room

• Fully fenced/ on big block of land on 1052 sqm

$269,000 - List #1613 https://aarealty.net/property/1613/

Perfect Home for The Growing Family

* Four good sized bedrooms.

$265,000 - List #1581 https://aarealty.net/property/1581/

Total Land Area: 31.94 Ha = 78.92 ac

Usable Land Area: 30.28 Ha = 74.82 ac

* Large kitchen and a very spacious living area.

* Easy clean polished timber floors throughout.

* Downstairs has a massive high clearance area with great potential. Inspect today to make this your new home!

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

Don’t miss viewing this large light and airy highset home, only 750 mts from Innisfail CBD. The location and size make it an excellent investment property, and one that is priced well to sell.

Auction: Saturday 11th March 2023 – 11am Onsite

$269,000 - List #1598 https://aarealty.net/property/1598/

4

Inspections available by appointment.

$265,000 - List #1576 https://aarealty.net/rural/1576/

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

4 1 2

Area 1,012 sqm

Either as an investment or to make your own, this classic Old Queenslander sitting on a gently sloping 1,009 sqm block, with many original design features should be viewed to appreciate its size and potential. Call today to arrange an inspection. Call

An ariel view of Tully from Mount Tyson

Thank you

The family of the late Frances Lizzio would like to thank you all for your support and thoughtful words shown following Frances’s passing. For all who attended her funeral, far and near, sent owers, cards and made meals, it was greatly appreciated. We would like to thank Geo , Diana, Garry and the sta at Blacks Funerals, Fr Joby Jose, Fr Kerry Crowley and Fr Hilary Flynn for our assistance and presiding at Frances’s funeral.

We wish to acknowledge Dr Jamie Crowe, Dr Kim Favier and sta of the Tully Medical Centre, Raymond Evans and Sta of the Tully Raycare Pharmacy and Gail Mears and Sta of the Tully Nursing Home for all your care during Frances’s illness.

Thank you also to the Members of the Three Saints Committee for their guard of honour.

Land for Lease Bilyana Area

FUNERAL NOTICE

MCROBBIE, Cecil Alexander

Aged 92 years. Late of Innisfail.

Husband of Carol.

Father of Lyn, Neil, Wendy and Alex. Grandfather of their families.

Brother of Marjorie and Jim (both dec).

All Relatives and Friends are respectfully invited to attend a Funeral Service for Cecil commencing at 10.00am THURSDAY 23rd March 2023 at the Chapel of Blacks Funerals, 18 Scullen Avenue, Innisfail. Followed by interment in the Innisfail Cemetery. The Service wil be Live Streamed via our website www.blacksfunnerals.com.au

Funeral Home – Chapel & Crematorium

Bronze Plaques – Funeral Bonds 18 Scullen Avenue Innisfail

4061 6806

CROSSWORD Across 3 Anaesthetic 8 Lay hold of (coll) 10 Detest 11 A female sheep 12 Game 14 Liquid part of blood 16 Lively intelligence 19 Declined in power 20 Uncommon 21 Prance 23 Large yellow turnip 25 Kind 26 Beer 28 Hot Mexican sauce 30 Rubber 31 Assistant 32 Man’s upper body garment 33 Oil-rich sultanate 35 In rows 38 Stereotypically masculine 39 Metal bearing rock 40 All instruments together (mus) 41 Inaccuracies 42 Rips

Down 1 Mountaineer’s aid 2 Small leaping insect 3 Sets aside for a specific purpose 4 Pupil absent without permission 5 Narrow beams of light 6 Guessing game 7 Packing case 9 Bird of prey 13 Items of furniture for sleeping on 15 Grown bigger 17 Church dignitary

18 Anger 22 They carry roads over valleys 24 Experienced fighters 27 Most parched 28 Knight’s title 29 Continent 30 One or the other of two 31 Encourages in an offence 34 Send out 36 Crucifix 37 Be mistaken

Church times across the region

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

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

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

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

ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS BOOK NOW !!! PHONE: WET TROPIC TIMES 07 4776 0485 imes WET TROPIC T 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 R G A T E A U S A U S E D R P L A T E S S N A I R O B I R A T S E E P O E S T A T E E T H R E A T E N R T H E S I S T E N D O N E B N A C R E D I T C E D A R S Y D I S S U A D E A P R I N C E M M I L L R U B U T T E R E D L U N L E S S R A L S O S E E L A I N E W

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 Churches

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

Anglican Churches

Time to resolve sugar terminals issue

CANEGROWERS

CANEGROWERS is calling on the owners and operators of Queensland's bulk sugar terminals to put aside their differences and come together to find a longterm solution to the operation of these strategically significant industry assets.

Representatives from Sugar Terminals Limited (STL) and Queensland Sugar Limited (QSL) fronted grower-leaders at the CANEGROWERS Policy Council meeting in Brisbane this week to explain why terminal operations has suddenly become one of the most contentious issues facing the industry.

Queensland's sugarcane farmers funded two-thirds of the construction costs of six purpose-built bulk sugar terminals between Cairns and Bundaberg in the 1950s and 60s.

For decades these terminals have been operated safely and successfully by QSL as a not-for-profit enterprise, handling around 4 million tonnes of sugar exports annually.

However, despite having no hands-on experience in the operation of sugar terminals, in January, STL, the

owner of the assets, announced its intention to wind up the commercial agreement with QSL and insource terminal operations.

CANEGROWERS Chairman Owen Menkens said growers are concerned the decision poses unnecessary risks to Australia's international reputation as a reliable supplier of high-quality, sustainably produced sugar.

"These terminals are a huge asset to the industry," Mr Menkens said. "They give us a significant competitive advantage in the world market, and their efficient, effective and safe operation as a service to the industry is paramount.

"Growers were the major investors in these facilities, so, we're not about to sit quietly back and see that legacy risked in any way because these organisations are unable to agree what's actually in the best interests of the industry," Mr Menkens said.

Both parties need to come together and resolve their operational issues in an orderly way. The growerled CANEGROWERS Policy Council affirmed that growers want to be assured that: terminals will be operated without increased costs while ensuring efficiency and reliability

Crocodile removed in Coorumba

DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENT AND SCIENCE

WILDLIFE Officers from the Department of Environment and Science (DES) have removed an estuarine crocodile from a creek near Innisfail after it displayed bold behaviour towards the officers.

The 1.7-metre crocodile was removed from Fishers Creek in a section of water above a series of rapids near the Palmerston Highway at Coorumba.

On the evening of 16 March 2023, DES Wildlife Officers carried out a site inspection following a recent crocodile sighting report from a resident in the area. While wildlife officers were undertaking a boat survey of the creek, the crocodile rapidly approached the vessel. The crocodile's bold behaviour made it easy for wildlife officers to secure the reptile and bring it to shore.

Under the Queensland Crocodile Management Plan, Coorumba is located in Zone E (General Management

Zone), which means all crocodiles displaying dangerous behaviour are targeted for removal. Senior Wildlife Officer Dinouk Perera said Wildlife Officers also took the opportunity to share important Crocwise messaging with residents living close to the creek to reiterate the need to be mindful of crocodiles in Croc Country. "Fishers Creek is an unusual spot to find a saltwater crocodile, but it's not impossible for crocs to be found in the area," Mr Perera said.

"This is a timely reminder to expect crocodiles in all Croc Country waterways, even if there are no warning signs around." The crocodile was taken to a secure DES facility, where she will remain until a suitable home is found in a licensed crocodile farm or zoo.

Members of the public are encouraged to report all crocodile sightings as soon as possible by using the QWildlife App on their smartphones or by calling 1300 130 372. DES investigates all reports it receives.

The Innisfail region is well known Croc Country,

there is a forward operating strategy and business plan in place for the terminals

terminal operations will always prioritise sugar access pricing and access arrangements will continue to be on an equitable basis for all customers

"The bottom line is these terminals have operated very well under QSL," Mr Menkens said.

"And the fact that QSL is an industry-owned, not-forprofit organisation has given growers confidence that these assets are being managed in the best interests of the industry.

"It is now up to STL to demonstrate to growers that they can do a similar or better job, possibly at a lower cost. But we have yet to be convinced of that.

"If there is a better operating model, then surely STL and QSL as two organisations that should be thinking in the best interests of the industry should resolve the situation in a professional manner.

"CANEGROWERS will continue to fight to ensure this issue resolved in an acceptable way as soon as possible."

and people are reminded to always be Crocwise. In particular:

• Expect crocodiles in ALL Cassowary Coast waterways even if there is no warning sign

• Obey all warning signs – they are there to keep you safe

• Be aware crocs also swim in the ocean and be extra cautious around water at night

• Stay well away from croc traps – that includes fishing and boating

• The smaller the vessel, the greater the risk, so avoid using canoes and kayaks

• Stand back from the water's edge when fishing, and don't wade in to retrieve a lure

• Camp at least 50 metres from the edge of the water

• Never leave food, fish scraps or bait near water, campsite or boat ramp

• Never provoke, harass or feed crocs.

• Always supervise children near the water and keep pets on a lead

Cane haulout operations course set to roll

HINCHINBROOK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE, INDUSTRY & TOURISM INC.

WITH critical skilled worker shortages having been identified within cane harvesting operations, progressive industry stakeholders within Hinchinbrook's farming and training sectors have collaborated to design a course to combat very real and recognised gaps in one of our region's largest industries.

Hinchinbrook Chamber of Commerce Industry and Tourism President Mrs Mary Brown said that the development of a new Cane Haulout Operator's Course is the first step in addressing skill shortages and, indeed, staffing shortages for the upcoming harvesting

season.

"Chamber recognised that skills shortages in the harvesting sector had the potential to impact the broader local economy, and our role as a business representative organisation, is to find real solutions to issues affecting our membership and the broader community," said Mrs Brown.

"Stakeholders have come together to consider the skills beneficial to the harvesting sector and have packaged those competencies into a five-day course to help those looking to enter the harvesting sector to do so with confidence.

"Equally important to this, is that employers are able to obtain operators who have been inducted into the

industry's required skill-sets, before putting them behind the wheel or in a paddock."

The Cane Haulout Operator Course will run from 17th – 21st April 2023 in Ingham and will deliver outcomes relating to the operation and maintenance of a cane haulout and basic harvester maintenance; and have participants complete a generic siding induction and safe work within a powerline environment training.

Mrs Brown has congratulated the stakeholders who have come together to devise this industry-specific course, which will deliver real outcomes for our district and the cane growing and harvesting sectors.

"Industry representatives have come

Innisfail Entrepreneur's Chance to Harvest Business Potential

LUKE LUM

A digital compliance management solution developed by an Innisfail local has been given an opportunity to scale thanks to the Tropical North Queensland Drought Resilience Adoption and Innovation Hub (TNQ Drought Hub).

Jennifer McKee, the founder of Spades, a centralised platform for Australian growers and producers to manage their compliance needs, is one of two North Queensland entrepreneurs currently taking part in the Farmers2Founders Harvest program, a three-month accelerator program designed to equip high-potential AgTech businesses with the capability to scale and expand the scope of their business.

Her participation has been sponsored by the TNQ Drought Hub, which is supported by the Federal Government's Future Drought Fund.

"I saw how overwhelmed and frustrated farmers were with paper-based compliance management systems," Ms McKee said.

"I became determined to provide them with a simple digital solution."

With a background in government policy, resource management and compliance, Ms McKee developed Spades to help farmers cut down on lost time keeping their compliance records up to date, provide a centralised platform for those records and reduce the stress this causes.

"Growers and producers already must comply with an increasing number of regulations and standards. Here in Tropical North Queensland, there is the added biosecurity and reef regulation requirements," she continued.

"There are already a lot of individual digital tools to support the ag industry in their compliance however there is a lack of adoption as people are reluctant to use multiple apps or platforms. Spades solves this problem by having all their compliance needs in one place."

Nicole Lucas, Program Lead for the Agricultural Innovation program at TNQ Drought Hub said that Ms McKee was an ideal candidate for the Harvest program.

"Jennifer's solution was already proven with a solid customer base. She simply needs some guidance to take it to the next level. The Harvest program provides not only a pathway to help her to consolidate her ideas, but also connections and mentors to open doors to help Jennifer scale the business into national and international markets," Ms Lucas said.

"Our goal with The Harvest program is to drive the growth of businesses that will benefit the entire industry, particularly producers in the Tropical North Queensland region.

We couldn't be more thrilled to be supporting Jennifer on her journey through the program."

together and worked incredibly hard to get this concept off the ground, and Chamber has auspiced a grant – which if successful, should enable more eligible participants to enrol," said Mrs Brown.

"This is the first step in our bigger picture strategy to introduce comprehensive training which provides established career pathways for interested candidates to join the cane and other agricultural industries.

"There are so many opportunities available for employment and professional growth within Hinchinbrook's agricultural sector, and Chamber is excited to play a part for the benefit of our region's industries, employment, and skilled worker count." Mrs Brown said.

Jennifer McKee

Exciting time to consider cane

BY OWEN MENKENS, CANEGROWERS CHAIRMAN

EMPLOYMENT in the regions is always a hot topic, with many people unemployed or forced to move away to find work. But there are opportunities available for those willing and able to take them.

In 2022, Queensland’s sugar industry suffered significant workforce shortages right across the sector.

Mill workers, farm hands, haul-out drivers, harvester operators, and truck drivers were all in short supply.

While some areas were more badly affected than others, the overall shortage of workers contributed to the longer season length and around one million tonnes of cane being left in the paddock, unharvested.

In an effort to prevent a repeat of this in 2023, CANEGROWERS has launched a campaign to attract more workers to the sugar industry ahead of this year’s crush, which is now a little over two months away.

The (mainly) social media campaign will target interstate workers, young travellers, grey nomads, and even qualified international job seekers.

But ideally, we would love to get more regional Queenslanders working in the industry, as these are the people most likely to stay long-term and be most passionate about the vitality of their region.

As part of our long-term strategy to encourage more young people into the

industry, we have created curriculumaligned lessons that will teach primary and secondary-aged students about the opportunities that exist within Queensland’s sugar industry. But the fact remains, we need workers now!

So, if you or someone you know is unemployed or just looking for a new

opportunity, or has a general interest in working in the sugar industry, please get in touch with your local CANEGROWERS office or visit the Work in the Industry page on the CANEGROWERS website to see what opportunities are available for you.

The sugar industry is one of Queensland’s oldest surviving industries

and has been the backbone of regional communities along the Queensland coast for well over a century.

But our best days are still ahead of us.

In fact, this is possibly the most exciting time to join the sugarcane industry, as we are on the cusp of an evolution that, over the next decade, will see our industry become one of the major players in Queensland’s bioeconomy.

Consider carrying an EPIRB or a PLB as a part of your outdoor safety equipment

SENIOR CONSTABLE JANE MORAN

WHAT does an EPIRB or a PLB do?

An Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB) or a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) is an electronic device that, when activated, assists rescue authorities to locate those in distress.

Once you activate the device, it transmits a distress frequency alarm signal.

This signal is received by satellite, which is part of an international search and rescue satellite system.

Once this system receives your signal, it notifies your nearest ground station.

Far North police would like to remind anyone bush walking or planning a trip where phone reception will be scarce to consider carrying an EPIRB or a PLB as a part of their safety equipment.

We know the more remote we are, phone reception and the passing of motorists or anyone, is less likely if we happen to find ourselves lost, injured, or ill.

Having an EPIRB or a PLB gives us the best chance of reaching the outside world should you require it, and keeping a PLB securely on your person allows easy access for any emergency.

Around 6.30 pm on Monday night (March 20), a 30-year-old Melbourne

man activated his EPIRB after he slipped on rocks whilst fishing at Tully Gorge Camping Grounds, sustaining a suspected broken left forearm.

He was riding his bicycle solo from Melbourne to Cairns when the accident occurred.

Expecting limited reception in certain areas and the bicycle being his mode of transport, he was prepared for all events.

Carrying an EPIRB allowed emergency services to be notified of his location allowing officers to locate him and arrange an ambulance to transport him to Tully Hospital for treatment.

Anyone who enjoys bush walking, fishing or spending time in our great outdoors would find many of the mountains and tracks around the Far North to be on your 'to do list'.

Before you leave for your trek, there are a few safety things you need to consider:

Let someone who is not going know where you are going, your departure time, destination and approximate arrival time.

Cary suitable food and plenty of water for the duration of the trip.

Carry a charged mobile phone or satellite phone.

A Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) is a good alternative when phone reception is poor.

Carry a first aid kit.

Pack suitable clothing for the planned trip.

Tully Gorge

Shane Muriata

THE Tully Tigers wrapped up their pre-season trials last weekend when they travelled to Ingham to play the annual clash against one of North Queensland's top Rugby League teams, the Herbert River Crushers. Both Reserve and A grades had mixed results, with Reggie's claiming the win, whereas the Crushers took the chocolates in the main game. Tigers stalwart and former WWE Champion Fabian Tauli hinted that the team isn't far off, and trusting the process with belief will get their confidence up "We have the team, we just need some belief. If we spend a little more time together understanding our roles,then we won't be to far". And that test will begin this weekend when Tully hosts two-time premiers of the last five years, the mighty Yarrabah Sea Hawkes. With all three grades raring to run onto the Showgrounds come Saturday to start the competition, it will be the test they need to see if we're contenders or just pretenders — all the best Tigers.

In the next few weeks, we will be going over Tully's young up-and-coming roster giving the reader an idea of what our next crop looks like. This week, we analyse Jamie Muriata, Logan Deloryn, Riley Congoo and Xavier Carlaw. These four players represent the future of the Tigers and, in my opinion, will make higher honours in a few years. They work harder than most players, do heaps of extras and are always, and I mean always, ready to play footy at any time of the day.

Jamie Muriata is more at home in the forwards but can run faster than most wingers. He's tough and can hit almost as hard as his famous footy father, who also played for the black and gold back in the day.

Xavier Carlaw is one of those rare players who has the speed to burn off the mark but can ball play from

Bowls News

Ingham Men’s Bowls Club News

RESULTS of the barefoot bowls played on the 16th of March

Mark Girgenti, Danny Chappell & Stan Cotton def Dianne Tomba, Malynda Cole & Jim Dickerson 14 - 6

Mark Tack, Angie Foti & Bob Bell def Sue Tack, Donna Gosney & John Lone 13 - 7

Men’s Pairs results for the 17th of March:

J Dickerson & B Wilson def G Brierley & T George 21 - 12

C Johnson & T Koop def K Lawlor & P Herman 2016

B Bell, K Turvey & A Torielli def S Scott, T Pallanza & P Ryan 23-12

The prize-winning team of the mixed social bowls played on the 19th of March was M Moore, J Hamlyn & A Torielli, defeating K Lawlor, J Eddleston & P Herman 27-11 (20 points to 11)

P Reyland, J Holmes & E Piotto def B Bell, J Fenoglio & K Walker 19-10 (17 points to 9)

B Eddleston, D Horsley & N Evans def T Arkink, M Thompson & R Cantatore 26-18 (19 points to 9)

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

Barefoot Bowls are played every Thursday night between 6-8 pm.

If you want to try your hand at playing lawn Bowls, ‘barefoot bowls’ is your opportunity to come along and have a go. The bowls are supplied by the club.

anywhere. A footy brain with speed, how good is that?

Then you have Logan Deloryn, son of a gun Lou, who happens to be in love with the game and the Bronx. Logan comes across as quiet, but don't let that fool you, as he is as tough as they come. He has a great reliable defence and game awareness when the players need him. A player you need when the game is on the line.

Then, my main man, Mr Riley Congoo. What machine, and what a player. After first seeing him play Junior League, I knew he was a special talent. Hardhitting, no-nonsense, brutal forward that no team can do without. Speed and strength are his qualities for a player of his size, and when you go to war, you'd want him in the trenches. He's a great bloke too.

All these players are the perfect mix of what our club needs. Hopefully, higher honours await them.

The weekend games in the NRL served up more than my barra spots did, so it was with little wonder I felt

good about it. If you heard someone screaming like an elephant cutting his toenails during the Bronx Dragons game, that was none other than me yahooing. It twas a good victory, but like my height in recent years, I've got a long way to go to catch Larry Bird or the Celtics. The Cows weren't that bad, and you would be a crazy man writing them off yet, cause last time I checked, there were 20-something games to go, so to all the Doomsday preppers, calm the fridge down. Same with the Storms, these guys will be back before you can say WrestleMania 39, which happens to be next weekend. The Rabbitohs will need some fresh air, the Sharkies will be circling again soon, and the Tigers, well, let's hope they're on the cusp. I really like the Gold Coast, not just for the parking metre reps, but their NRL club is looking better than ok.

This week's highlight will obviously be the Dolphins Bronx game which will be the first-ever cross-town rival game between two of Brisbane's new NRL neighbours. This should be a classic, my prediction, golden point.

Names into the club by 5:30 pm

Men’s Pairs played every Friday afternoon at 2:15 pm

Names into the club by 1:45 pm

J Hamlyn is on duty for the 24th of March.

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

Names on the board by 12:30 pm

On the roster for the 26th of March:

Bar - C Johnson

Selector - P Herman

Innisfail Men's Bowls

LAST Thursday afternoon's social bowls winners were the team of Mal Bright, Greg McDonald and Les Cali. Visitors and new members are most welcome, with names to be in by 12.30 pm for a 1.00 pm start.

This week, there will be four draws of the $500.00 jackpot.

In the B-Grade Club Singles, Joe Van Tienen defeated Peter Smith, whilst Warren Sinclair defeated Steve Stoter in the C-Grade Singles.

If you have games to be played, please organise to play them as soon as possible.

This Saturday, Innisfail will play in the final of the Barry Wallis Memorial Shield at South Johnstone Bowls Club.

Innisfail Ladies Bowls

CATARINA Cook played Diana O’Brien in the first round of the B-Grade Ladies’ Singles.

In a long game on a hot afternoon, Cook led all the way and defeated O’Brien 25 - 18.

In a social game of fours, Lyn Stevenson, Maisie Smith, Vera Rowe and Marilyn Allen defeated Sue Morrison, Daphne Kirkman, Ann Rule and Margaret Johnston 13 - 11.

Afternoon tea made the difference, as Sue Morrison’s team was well in the lead before the break.

Lyn Stevenson’s team claimed victory on the last end, which was the first time they had been in the lead.

Tully bowls

THURSDAY 16th March

Team 1 Robyn Brunello/Avis Ray (18) v Team 2 Rod Bradley/Pam Staier (11)

Team 3 Pauline Edwards/Jason Harop/Rhys Milini (18) v Team 4 Val Bradley/Joan Mercer/Reece Milni (11)

Winning team out of the hat Pauline Edwards/Jason Harrop/Rhys Milini.

Sunday 19th March.

Team 1 John Taylor/Sean Prinsloo (3) v Team 2 Ray Downing/Judy Hood (16)

Team 3 Rod Tennant/Joanne Townsend (6) v Team 4 Lino Ceccato/Lou Brunello (5)

Team 5 Peter Smith/Avis Ray/Donte (10) v Team 6 Robyn Brunello/Michael Knight/Ian Revie (2)

Team7 Rita Pezzutto/Joan Mercer/Rita Hudson (5) v Team 8 Steve Szabo/Pauline Edwards/Jason Harrop (13)

After Smoko

Team 1 (5) v Team 3 (6). Team 2 (3) v Team 4 (13)

Team 5 (11) v Team 7 (6). Team 6 (10) v Team 8 (7)

Winning team out of the hat Ray Downing/Judy Hood.

Members are reminded that the monthly club meeting is on Sunday 26th at 11.30 am.

Please use East West Rinks for practice. The competition draw is on the board, so please play when you can.

Our Easter Triples are on Easter Saturday. We are still looking for a couple of teams, please.

Let’s hope the weather is kind to us. Cheers!

St. Clare's Cross Country 2023

ST.

CLARE'S SCHOOL

ST. Clare's Cross Country was held on Friday, March 10. We had amazing weather for the event and would like to congratulate every student who competed. We were so impressed with the level of participation at this carnival and the effort and perseverance displayed by every child. Congratulations to our age

champions for 2023. This is an exceptional achievement. A massive congratulations to Cooby for being the overall House winners for 2023.

We thank our very generous sponsors, the Milone family and Adam and Fran Fraser from Livelife Pharmacy in Tully. We appreciate your support.

St. Clare's Tully – Cross Country Age Champions – 2023

and NOW Then

QRL History Committee

GREG SHANNON

THIS week we got the sad news of Rugby league great John Sattler's passing.

A true gentleman and a great ambassador for rugby league, John is always remembered for playing in the 1970 Sydney grand final for South Sydney against Manly with a broken jaw.

However, there is much more to his career both on and off the field, than this one game.

Originally from Kurri Kurri, he played for the Combined Newcastle side against Great Britain in 1962 as a 19-yearold and then joined the South Sydney club, where he carved out an illustrious decadelong career. He played 197 first-grade games for Souths and captained the club to 4 Sydney premierships in 1967, 1968, 1970 and 1971 and also represented NSW and Australia.

In fact, he Captained Australia in 1971.

What makes John's career even more unique is that for the 1973 season, at 30 years of age, he took on a new challenge by signing with the QRL and moving to Brisbane to play in the old Brisbane rugby league competition for Brisbane Wests and was named Captain of the Qld side that year against NSW and NZ. This was still the era when interstate sides were selected on a residential basis, not origin and NSW that year was captained by Sydneybased Arthur Beetson!

NSW won the 1973 interstate, but Qld did defeat NZ, and some of the players from the Qld squad went on to have great careers both on and off the field.

The fullback (No 1), for instance, was a policeman

called Wayne Bennett, who went on to have an enormous coaching career that continues to this day with the Dolphins.

The hooker (No 12) was John Lang, who played many times for Qld through the 1970s and in the first origin match in 1980. Later turning to coaching, he coached Penrith to an NRL premiership in 2003 and was the Australian Superleague

coach in 1997. His son Martin played eight origin matches for Qld from 1998-2000.

One of the Qld wingers was No 2 Warren Orr, who was back playing in Brisbane after playing for Atherton and North Queensland in 1972. Both he and John Lang made the Kangaroo touring squad at the end of the 1973 season.

No 3 centre John Grant was a Brisbane Souths player who

later became a businessman and, in 2011, was named the inaugural chair of the Australian Rugby League commission.

Closer to home, No 4 Dave Applebee was selected for Qld from the Innisfail competition after transferring from Penrith.

The Qld Captain John Sattler (No 11) was obviously already famous by the time he wore the maroon in 1973. After retiring as a player in 1976, he became

a successful businessman. In 1988 he was part of a consortium of former players to start the new Gold Coast Chargers club in the expanded national league (now known as the Gold Coast Titans). He was also a guest on many media outlets for decades, and his son Scott played origin for Qld in 2003.

John Sattler has left a long legacy in Rugby league.

Front: Tarique, Evie, Lucas, Jhett, Darius, Ahrelow, Willow, Julian, Torah. Back: Blake, Emily, Saxon, Maisy, Heath, Layla, Billy, Maddison. (Also pictured) Sponsors: Adam Fraser from Live life Pharmacy Tully & Antoinette Jesse on behalf of the Milone Family

Innisfail United Football teams faced Southside in their first home games

STORY AND PHOTOS BY MARIA GIRGENTI

LAST Saturday, Innisfail United Football Club teams were in action at Steve Corica Oval, Mourilyan, against Southside Comets for their first home fixtures in this season's Football Queensland's Far North and Gulf competition.

Innisfail United Under 23 Women's team lost to Edge Hill Tigers at home last Friday, whilst, in the 2022 grand final replay, Innisfail's Division 2 Men's team went down to Southside.

Football Queensland Premier League - Far North and Gulf results:

March 17 - Steve Corica Oval, Mourilyan

Innisfail United Under 23 Women's vs Edge Hill Tigers

Full time: 5 - 1 loss to Innisfail

Goal:

Malorie Haworth

Innisfail United Division 2 Men's vs Southside Comets

Full time: 3 - 1 loss to Innisfail

Goal:

Damien Musumeci

Innisfail United Division 1 vs Atherton Eagles - Atherton

International Club

Full time: 1 - 1 draw

March 18 - Marlin Coast

Innisfail United Under 12 Red vs Leichhardt

Full time: 4 - 0 win to Innisfail

Innisfail United Under 12 White vs Marlin Coast

Full time: 5 - 0 loss to Innisfail

Innisfail United Under 13 Team 2 - Endeavour Park, Manunda

Full time: 5 - 1 win to Innisfail

March 18 - Steve Corical Oval

Innisfail United Under 13 Team 1 vs Southside

Full time: 6 - 0 loss to Innisfail

Innisfail United Under 14 vs Southside

Full-time: 6 - 1 loss to Innisfail

Innisfail United Under 16 vs Southside

Full time: 6 - 1 win to Innisfail

Goals:

Aidan Van Bael 3

Reed Bonassi 2

Blake Musumeci 1

Innisfail United Under 18 vs Southside

Full time: 5 - 0 loss to Innisfail

Innisfail United Under 23 Men's vs Southside

Full time: 3 - 2 loss to Innisfail

Innisfail United Premier Men's vs Southside

Full time: 2 - 2 draw

Soccer action in the Under 14 game between Innisfail and Southside Comets.

Innisfail United and Southside Under 16 teams battled it out at Steve Corica Oval.

Reed Bonassi (right) netted two goals for Innisfail against Southside in the Under 16s match.

Innisfail's Under 16 player, Aidan Van Bael, scored a hat-trick of goals in their win over Southside.

Innisfail and Southside players contested the ball in the Under 18 clash.

SPORT

Etty Bay Surf Lifesaving Club members impress at the State Championships

MARIA GIRGENTI

ARIANA Nucifora, Etty Bay Surf Lifesaving Club's Nipper of the Year, was the only Etty Bay Nipper part of the North Queensland Branch Youth State Team who competed at the Surf Lifesaving Queensland Youth State Championships held last month at Mooloolaba Surf Lifesaving Club, Sunshine Coast.

This was an incredible commitment from Ariana and her dad Mark, who travelled to Cairns every Sunday morning to train at the cable ski park, as well as Mission Beach during the week to train in the pool and with the Mission Beach Nippers, who were also on the team.

Nucifora, who competed in individual and team events, developed great skills, made lifelong friends, learned to deal with challenging conditions and competed against the best in the state.

These championships are the largest and most prestigious for Under 11 -

Under 15 age categories, where the finest talent from Queensland go headto-head.

This event showcases individual events from 1km and 2km beach runs, beach flags and sprints, Iron Person, and surf race and surfboard events.

It hosted qualifying teams from the Branch Championships for beach relay, surf teams, board relay and Cameron relay events.

The NQ Branch won two silver medals in the Under 11 Male and Female 500m Run and one bronze in the Under 12 Male Swim.

The North Queensland branch, made up of 35 members from Etty Bay, Mission Beach, Cairns, Port Douglas and Ellis Beach, finished 18 out of 50, which is their best result in over a decade.

Etty Bay had two Surf Boat crews travel to the Sunshine Coast to compete in the Queensland Surf lifesaving Senior State Championships from February 24 - 26.

The Under 19 Ladies crew of Rylee Jones, Ella Cook, Kari Cini, Kate Walker and Shayne Cini, as their sweep competed well in three rows, gained plenty of experience and learned areas to improve on for next season.

The Reserve Grade Men's crew of Martin Cook, Paul Rinaudo, Adrian Conroy, Jesse Witt and David Jones as their sweep had four rows and made the quarter-finals.

These crews trained over the holidays and off-season to compete at the State Titles.

These team members committed to training on the river and at the beach, and juggled work commitments, shift work, and university studies. When all else failed, they trained on ERGO rowers at one of the rower's residences.

They even attended a State carnival in Tugun before Christmas and gained practice with the surf conditions, as well as competed against other teams and other state teams.

Ariana Nucifora from Etty Bay Surf Lifesaving Club ready to swim at the Queensland Lifesaving Youth State Championships at Mooloolaba.

Etty Bay's Ariana Nucifora, who competed at the Queensland Lifesaving Youth State Championships on the Sunshine Coast.

Etty Bay Surf Lifesaving Club teams who competed at the Queensland Lifesaving State Youth and Senior Championships.

Etty Bay Surf Lifesaving Club's Under 19 Ladies crew prepared to row.

Fishing News

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

EASTER CAMPING CATALOGUE – OUT NOW

UNFORTUNATELY, the week of light winds ended last Friday night, making any chance to get out wide to the main reefs over last weekend impossible for the average-sized reef boat.

The days leading up to last weekend were kinder, with plenty of opportunity to head out wide. The main reefs fished well on the building tides with good numbers of Coral Trout and mixed reef fish. There were also reasonable numbers of out-of-season Spanish Mackerel caught mostly by floating baits out the back of the boat while bottom fishing.

There have also been good numbers of both Large and Small Mouth Nannygai caught from the deep water rubble patches and Wrecks. Some boats have had the added bonus of some nice Spangled Emperor and Cobia.

As the water cleared and the tides began to build, the pelagic activity increased, with large schools of mostly Mack Tuna feeding on the numerous bait schools.

The fishing around the islands also began to improve with some very nice island Trout, Grassy Sweet Lip, and Fingermark caught. These fish have been tempted by both jigging soft plastics and bottom fishing. The ideal bait for Fingermark is live herring or fresh squid, and there has been plenty of both around over the last week.

The coastal rivers had finally returned to a nice colour, and anglers managed some nice Barra and Mangrove Jacks last weekend. The mud crabs have also started to pot well, with the best crabbing for the

year experienced by many anglers over the last week. I still feel the overall number of Mud crabs has been down, and perhaps we need to look at reducing bag limits if things don't improve. I am sure the overall health of the system depends on a good wet season. It makes you wonder how the systems are down around Ayre and Mackay crab so well. I recently spent a weekend at a friend's place in Cleveland, Brisbane. We put out four crab pots four hundred metres from shore in front of his house. We managed twenty-two blue swimmer sand crabs in three checks over two days. That's right in the middle of the busiest waterway in Qld. It makes you think about what's going wrong up this way, doesn't it?

The freshwater reaches of the coastal creeks have been fishing well as river heights drop, and the water quality improves. There has been some monster Barra caught at the mouth of the feeder creeks and drains over the last few days. Many of the larger Barra have taken live mud cod; however, there still has been some nice fish caught by using lures. Permission to enter farms is a privilege that will quickly be taken away if a farmer's headlands are being destroyed by vehicles entering during wet conditions. Please walk; in most cases, it only takes a few minutes.

The upper freshwater limits of the rivers have also been fishing well for both sooty Grunter and Jungle Perch.

I am writing this report on Sunday. I expect the predicted rain we will receive this week will affect the water conditions in the rivers again.

On the morning of March 14, Belinda Santarossa from Innisfail caught this Coral Trout at Hall Thompson Reef on a rod using pilchards and squid as bait.

LUCINDA MARCH

Strong winds are also predicted for this week, and it looks likely that the wind will continue into this coming weekend, so I expect that the fishing will be confined to the estuaries and freshwater.

There is only a small run in the tide which means that anglers will have to look for tidal flow to find the

JOHNSTONE RIVER MARCH

HULL HEADS MARCH

fish. I have found that this can actually be a benefit and concentrate the Jacks and Barra into smaller sections of the river or creek. I like both the early morning run in tide and either side of the late afternoon low. Saturdays tide is definitely the best.

Don't forget the crab pots, and if the coastal creeks are running dirty from too much fresh, try the Hinchinbrook Channel.

Good Fishing, Roly Newton, Tackle World Tully

RoLy Newton

Joe Vitale caught this impressive Spanish Mackerel on a rod using a floater out the back of the boat at Hall Thompson Reef last Tuesday morning, (March 14).

Pro Staffer Ryan Sanger with a beautiful Jungle Perch from an overnight trip up into the gorge.

SPORT

Etty Bay Surf Lifesaving Club members impress at the State Championships -

Page 22

Queensland Indigenous Women's cricket team crowned national champions

MARIA GIRGENTI

LAST month, former Innisfail junior cricketer Keiryn Lenoy starred in the Queensland Indigenous Women's cricket team who claimed their inaugural title at the National Indigenous Cricket Championships played in Alice Springs.

After a two-year hiatus due to COVID-19, the sixth championships returned to Alice Springs and featured seven men's and five women's teams.

Queensland created history as they finished the round games undefeated and brought home the trophy.

Lenoy, the only cricketer from Far North Queensland, played five out of the six T20 games and batted in three of those games.

The squad included captain Christina Coulson (Valley, Brisbane), vicecaptain Clodagh Ryall (Wynnum-Manly, Brisbane), Keiryn Lenoy (Norths, Cairns), Courtney Hagen (Valley, Brisbane), Grace Abdy (Wanderers, Townsville), Lucy Neumann (Ipswich), Taylor Fitzgerald (Sunshine Coast), Kameryn Bray (Wynnum-Manly, Brisbane), Grace Warcon (Caboolture), Tracee Williamson (Pioneer Valley, Mackay), Emily Wilson and Carys Underwood (Sunshine Coast). Coach: Ash Renouf, Manager: Tamika Hansen and Zoe Eisenmonger (Queensland Cricket staff).

In round one, Queensland batted first against Western Australia and set a total of 138 runs, with Ryall's knock of 38 runs.

In her sixth NICC outing, Queensland skipper Coulson led by example with the new ball and finished with figures of 5/12, which saw their opposition bundled out for 88 runs.

Coulson backed this up in the next game against New South Wales with outstanding bowling figures of 4/7, which saw Queensland achieve victory in the 14th over.

Northern Territory posted a firstinnings score of 94 runs in their third game, but Queensland cruised to a comfortable win in the 12th over.

Queensland produced one of their most dominant games against Victoria, with the captain claiming 3/11; then, Lenoy smashed 47 runs off 31 balls and finished not out to claim victory in 10 overs.

Lenoy, who played her first Imparja Cup in 2007, stated the carnival was a fantastic way to meet different people from all over the country who are passionate about cricket.

"Through this mutual love of cricket, I formed a lot of new friendships, and was overwhelmed by the amazing level of cricketing talent coming out of Queensland."

The undefeated Queensland team registered an eight-wicket victory in the final against New South Wales.

QLD NICC results

Women's

Division

Game 1: QLD (8/136) def WA (88)

Game 2: QLD (5/59) def NSW (58)

Game 3: QLD (3/96) def NT (2/94)

Game 4: VIC (6/71) def by QLD (2/72)

Former young gun Innisfail cricketer and soccer goalkeeper Kael Newcombe, now playing for Rovers, gained selection in the Men's team, who made the preliminary finals at the Championships.

The NICC not only provides an excellent talent pathway for indigenous cricketers, but it also enables players to connect with their culture.

Queensland Indigenous Women's cricket team members Emily Wilson, Kameryn Bray, Carys Underwood and Keiryn Lenoy. Photo: Chris Hyde/ Cricket Australia.

(Back): Kameryn Bray, Keiryn Lenoy, Carys Underwood and Emily Wilson, (front): Clodagh Ryall and Grace Abdy, members of the victorious Queensland's Indigenous Women's team in Alice Springs. Photo: Chris Hyde/Cricket Australia.

Keiryn Lenoy, Clodagh Ryall and Carys Underwood with the trophy.

Photo: Chris Hyde/Cricket Australia.