Wet Tropic Times, 2024, February 8, Newspaper Edition

Times WET TROPIC

SARI RUSSO

COMING SOON Monthly Newscast

BABINDA, INNISFAIL, MISSION BEACH, TULLY, CARDWELL, INGHAM

Four Hours One Way!

INSIDE

NOMINEES FOR 2024 HINCHINBROOK SHIRE AUSTRALIA DAY AWARDS

PA G E 6 VALENTINES DAY FEATURE

PA G E S 12 - 13 LOCAL HEROES RECOGNISED AT CCRC’S AUSTRALIA DAY AWARDS

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P.A. COMPARISON RATE MAX 36 MONTH TERM

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TAKE ADVANTAGE OF 1% FINANCE* ON TOP OF CURRENT OFFERS *Terms and conditions apply. 1% Comparison rate is available for approved personal applicants of Nissan Financial Services (Australian Credit Licence Number 391464) (NFS). 1% APR. Maximum 36 month term. This comparison rate for the purpose of the National Credit Code is based on a 5 year secured loan of $30,000, although this offer relates to a 36 month term only. WARNING: This comparison rate is true only for the example given and may not include all fees and charges. Different terms, fees or other loan amounts might result in a different comparison rate. Offer available on standard finance product for LEAF models and on Nissan Future Value (NFV) product for JUKE, select 1.3L QASHQAI, 2.5L X-TRAIL and Navara Dual Cab 4x4 Auto Pickup vehicles purchased during the Big1 4-day sale event (14-17 February 2024). 2023 build or prior vehicle models only. Under the Nissan Future Value (NFV) program, you can return the vehicle back to NFS for the pre-agreed future value (adjusted for excess kilometres and the cost of repairs for vehicle damage beyond fair wear and tear), to pay the final balloon payment on your loan. Allowed kilometres and vehicle condition requirements are set out in the NFV agreement. NFV is not available on demonstrators over 5,000km or 6 months from registration.

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Thursday, February 8, 2024

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Local People - Local News

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COMMUNITY

Wet Tropic Times

Thursday, February 8, 2024

WEATHER Spiritual food with Jess Social fundraiser SEEKING Wisdom

Saturday Ingham Scattered thunderstorms 24 - 33 Cardwell Scattered thunderstorms 24 - 32 Tully Scattered thunderstorms 24 - 32 Mission Beach Scattered thunderstorms 24 - 31 Innisfail Scattered thunderstorms 24 - 32 Tomorrow - Sunday Ingham Isolated thunderstorms 23 - 33 Cardwell Isolated thunderstorms 23 - 32 Tully Partly sunny 23 - 32 Mission Beach Scattered thunderstorms 24 - 31 Innisfail Isolated thunderstorms 23 - 32

As you look back at specific situations in life, do you recognise that some of your choices weren't the best, even though they seemed to be the best option at the time? If we think about it, we realise that our choices have consequences; they determine what happens next.

Galatians 6:7-8 NIV [7] Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows.

[8] Whoever sows to please their flesh, from the flesh, will reap destruction; whoever sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit, will reap eternal life.

Our heart attitudes influence our choices, at times obstructing us from seeing what is right.

Scripture tells us to seek Wisdom.

I want you all to think about Wisdom and why we need to ask God for it.

What do Wisdom and our choices

have in common?

James 1:5 NIV [5] If any of you lacks Wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.

Have you seen the consequences of one of your choices? Did you make the best choice at the time? Even though it seemed right, did your choice mean the circumstance turned out how you expected?

We are only human; we will always make mistakes, But we can boldly approach God and ask for Wisdom; we can ask Him what we should do next, not letting our heart attitude dictate our decisions.

The Good news is that we can repent, we can repent of our choices and ask for forgiveness.

In all circumstances, seek first the kingdom of God.

Uni Kick was back in Ingham

UNI was passing back through Ingham as he is now around Australia.

“I am going to drive around Australia with an 87-year-old Australian from today (February 7). I met him at the mission beach and told me about his dream, but he was 87 years old and couldn't do it by himself. That's when you asked me. Can you travel with me? I answered, of course! I would like to thank the people who helped me on this trip. I also want to do charity work for earthquakes in Japan!” Uni Kick Facebook.

Agnes Kim Registered Acupuncturist

Private Health Fund Rebates Traditional & Laser Acupuncture Cupping Therapy Holistic Treatments, Healing & Pain Relief

Tully: Tuesday and Saturday Innisfail: Wednesday and Friday

0474 531 775

OUR TEAM Managing Editor/ Director Sari Russo management@ wettropictimes.com.au

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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 414 Ingham QLD 4850

Phone: 0455 250 502 Email: capeyorktrees@gmail.com

Uni Kick at the Wet Tropic Times office in Ingham

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Regional Rainfall Report Data obtained from https://rainfall.willyweather.com.au/qld/far-north

REGION

INGHAM

CARDWELL

TULLY

INNISFAIL

BABINDA

Last 7 Days mm

73.4mm

42.6mm

220.8mm

66mm

64.3mm

MTD mm

73.4mm

32.6mm

216.8mm

61.2mm

62.8mm

YTD

689.2mm

592.4mm

1011.4mm

684.6mm

655mm

Thursday, February 8, 2024

COMMUNITY

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Four Hours One Way! SARI RUSSO

AFTER Shane Knuth MP invited her to Far North Queensland to meet with cyclone and flood-affected residents and businesses, also to assess damage and progress on the Palmerston Hwy, the Minister for Disaster Recovery Nikki Boyd MP accepted Mr Knuth's invitation and came to meet with him last week.

One question raised by businesses local to the Tablelands area is whether a tunnel Highway will be built from Mareeba to southern Cairns. The tunnel would benefit the business community by ensuring they're not as impacted by weather events that occur regularly in their area. If this happens, the travel time to Cairns will be less than 30 minutes.

Community members who travel from the south would also like better access.

"I now have to drive four hours to get to work!" said Deborah Redfearn, a Kennedy resident who has a parttime job in the Tablelands and needs to make regular commutes. As Ms Redfearn is from a community in a southern direction from the Tableland, a tunnel from Mareeba to Cairns wouldn't improve her commute. Repairs to the Palmerston Highway would be the priority for community members in the same position as Deborah.

Katter's Australian Party MP Bob

Katter supports the Bridle Track Tunnel being built to benefit business owners in the Tablelands. "That's where our producers, both agriculture and minerals, should send their heavy freight. Not down our beautiful rainforest drives, which close every week."

The current expectation is that community members can travel on the Palmerston Highway in mid-February by constructing a temporary single lane.

The construction began on January 10, and it is located between Crawfords Lookout and Junction Road. The primary purpose of this quick fix is to accommodate the heavy vehicles.

"We appreciate the time Minister Boyd took visiting our region while also dealing with flooding in her own electorate," said Knuth Hill MP. I'd also like to acknowledge Bob Katter, the farmers, the trucking industry, small

businesses, and locals who have been pushing to get this opened.

"The latest advice still stands that the Palmerston Highway will be open to general traffic and heavy vehicles from mid-February, weather permitting.

"Businesses, growers and transport operators are facing increasing costs all due to the closure of this major arterial route and the burden of a massive detour. This is impacting residents both on the Coast and Tablelands."

The Palmerston Hwy has been closed since December 17 due to severe rainfall and flooding. This closure shuts down the primary freight link between the Mareeba and Tablelands regions and the coast.

Member for Hill Shane Knuth and Kennedy MP Bob Katter have been advocating to both levels of Government

on the importance of a quick permanent fix for the Palmerston Highway and will continue to do so.

"I have spoken to the new State Minister for Transport and Main Roads Bart Mellish and Federal Minister for Emergency Management Murray Watt about the importance of the Palmerston Highway as it is the major freight route for the food bowl of Far North Queensland," Mr Knuth said.

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Cardwell News 4 Thursday February 8 2024

COMMUNITY

Wet Tropic Times

APPLIANCES

Cardwell, Kennedy, and Murray Upper BUILDER

Cardwell RSL donated $20,000 APPLIANCE SERVICE to theCardwell community in 2023 Servicing to Innisfail ALADDIN

BUILDER OF NEW HOMES / RENOVATIONS / EXCAVATIONS AND TIP TRUCK HIRE

(and all areas in between) QBCC REGISTERED 1240132 group meets every Wednesday at 9 am, popular with local Cardwell residents.

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Samsung Westinghouse Recipients of the generous donations Cardwell by the Sea Quilters meet every andrew@purkonconstructions.com.au THE Cardwell RSL raised an incredible Saturday at 9 am, and the Card Ladies LG Most Brands $20,000 in 2023, donating to various included Cardwell State School, ANDREW PURKISS Kennedy State School, MurrayBUILDER/OPERATOR Upper meet every Tuesday afternoon for cards Prompt &throughout Personalised community groups Cardwell Service State School, Veterans, Gilroy Santa and mahjong from 12 pm onwards. Bingo and the surrounding districts. is played twice a fortnight on alternate Maria College, Our Lady of Lourdes The money was raised through a Tuesdays and Saturdays. The next three Primary School, Tully State High School, combined effort of RSL members. “We’ve bingo meetings are at 2 pm Saturday, had a busy year in 2023, really, with a Cardwell Coast Guard, UFO Festival, February 10, 2 pm Tuesday, February core working group of 10 - 12 people,” Seafest, the local Pump Track, Cardwell 20, and 2 pm Saturday, February 24. “All Lions, the Cardwell Golf club, and more.

Chiropractors said President Rob Lang. Every Sunday, the little clubs that meet here have tea, The RSL also hosts community coffee, and cake. It’s a great outing for the RSL hosts a BBQ lunch open to all, which is just $10 per person and is groups that meet at the building. A craft the ladies, we are delighted to provide that facility for them,” said Lang. ­

CHIROPRACTOR

CHIROPRACTOR

Dr Will Dr Riman

Back in Motion Chiropractic

l o o h c S 5 DAYS

11 Watkins Street, Tully 58 Ernest St, Innisfail

FAMILY CARE PEDIATRICS PRERSL’s & three biggest The Cardwell of theINJURIES year are Anzac Day, POST NATAL CARE days SPORTS

Remembrance Day, and Mother’s Day,

Innisfail 2225 all major4061 functions where the RSL is very BOOK NOW involved in the community, 2024 Preps for Cardwell Monday - Friday remembering the fallen and hosting community events.

Their 2023 Christmas Tully 4068 2225party was also a State Primary School fantastic event.

Rob Lang at the Cardwell Tuesday & Thursday Web: www.cassowarychiropractic.com.au CARDWELL State Primary School They are off to a great start for the Back in Motion Chiropractic

Ph: 4068 2100

Prep students are going strong with a 100% attendance rate.

year.

ELECTRICIAN ELECTRICIAN

Dr. Tina Balomenos

B. App Sci (Human Movement and Health Studies) B. Hlth Sci (Chiropractic) M. Clinical Chiropractic

Family Chiropractor

Rising Sun Shopping Centre Shop 1, 27 Owen St Innisfail, QLD 4860

Phone: (07) 4061 2225 Fax: (07) 4061 1177

Lang said the RSL will continue to raise money in 2024, “We’re very proud of what we’ve achieved in 2023

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TILES

Cenotaph after the Remembrance Day Memorial Service. Lest We Forget.

Cardwell Butchery Li’l Dig keeps Excavations net fishing licence

ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR

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and would love to replicate it in 2024.”

Thanks to a strong-knit community of hard workers behind the scenes, the Cardwell RSL plans to continue building up the community. “It’s wonderful for everybody involved. We’ve got an excellent group of people here, and it shows.”

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Thursday, Thursday, January February25, 8, 2024

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Cardwell Butchery fought to ensure that they maintained their net endorsements as there was limited entry.

The Queensland net fishing industry is significantly diminished in size since the new N15 fishery rollout and it appears based on the current information that what is left is set to wind up by mid-2027.

COMMUNITY

Thursday, February 8, 2024

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An Innisfail family has once again dug deep to support their local hospital FAR NORTH QUEENSLAND HOSPITAL FOUNDATION

THE Catalano Family Foundation has now donated almost $140,000 towards improving health outcomes in the region, with a focus on their hometown of Innisfail.

The latest donation of $13,500 to the Innisfail Hospital Friends of the Foundation, has resulted in the purchase of a gynaecological bed and a procedure trolley for the high dependency unit.

Sam Catalano said the family was happy to work with the Innisfail Friends of the Hospital Foundation to provide funding assistance for vital equipment that will help the local community.

“They are truly inspirational, always smiling and actively out in our community fundraising to assist in purchasing much needed equipment for the Innisfail Hospital. We were happy to assist in donating $13,500 this year,” Mr Catalano said.

The Catalano Family Foundation has previously donated to the Far North Queensland Hospital Foundation’s Cancer Care Hub and COVID-19 campaigns, bought a nasal video bronchoscope and motorised patient trolley for Innisfail, a Pentax bronchoscope for Cairns Hospital’s Intensive Care Unit, and an assisted trolley and mattresses to Gordonvale Hospital Friends of the Foundation in memory of Sam’s daughter Rose-Marie Dash.

“The Foundation was set up in memory of my late wife Dorothy and daughter Rose-Marie. We will continue to support and help our local community,” Mr Catalano said.

Innisfail Hospital Friends of the Foundation President Estelle Koppe expressed her gratitude to Mr Catalano and daughter Leanne Sultana for their continuing support to the branch in making it possible to buy vital equipment to our hospital for patient care.

Cairns Hospital (Staff Specialist) Obstetrician Gynaecologist Joanna Arnold said she had had the privilege of visiting Innisfail Hospital as part of the FROGS team (CHHHS Far Reach Obstetrics and Gynaecology Service) for 15 years.

“A team of two gynaecologists visit Innisfail nearly every fortnight. We see women who require gynaecology review at Innisfail Hospital to provide them with the care they need, without travelling to Cairns. We can arrange for minor surgical procedures to be completed at Innisfail Hospital with the support of the Innisfail Hospital GP Anaesthetists and surgical team,” Dr Arnold said.

immediate access to clinical needs for inpatients and staff, containing all the equipment necessary for prompt care at bedside.

“As well, it provides the work platform, sharps container and bin to improve the clinical work environment,” Ms Mertens said.

Far North Queensland Hospital Foundation CEO Gina Hogan said the latest Catalano Family Foundation donation was another example of the strong community support received by the Innisfail Friends of the Foundation.

“These very active volunteers are constantly in their community, selling raffle tickets, holding golf days and it’s great that others in the community see their efforts and reach out to help where they can,” Mrs Hogan said.

“Thank you to Sam Catalano and his daughter Leanne for their ongoing support of health services in the region

and recognising how they can help others in their community,” she said.

The Catalano Family Foundation also has donated to other causes such as Angel Flight, Royal Flying Doctors, Black Dog Institute, Diabetics Australia and the Wesley Hospital.

High Dependency Unit and Oncology Clinical Nurse Simone Jiggens-Anderson, Michelle Slater, Johanne Stitt, Gina Hogan, Estelle Kopp, Sam Catalano, Leanne Sultana.

“Up until now, we have had only one gynaecology examination couch available, which means women waiting for a particular procedure or check-up must wait until the doctor using that procedure room is free. With two rooms fully functional, we can get through the day’s work without delay and not have patients having to wait their ‘turn’. With the support of the Innisfail Hospital Friends of the Foundation and particularly the Catalano Family Foundation, we hope to improve the experience of our clients who really deserve the same level of care as patients in any larger hospital,” she said.

Johanne Stitt, Innisfail Hospital Emergency Department Nurse Unit Manager Romy Clark, Director of Nursing/Facility Manager Michelle High Dependency Unit Nurse Slater, Sam Catalano (Catalano Family Foundation), Leanne Sultana Unit Manager Birgit Mertens said (Catalano Family Foundation), Innisfail Hospital Friends of the the procedure trolley would facilitate Foundation Estelle Kopp and Foundation CEO Gina Hogan.

Shane Knuth MP reaches 20-year milestone OFFICE OF SHANE KNUTH HILL MP THIS week KAP Member for Hill Shane Knuth has reached a milestone serving 20 years as a State MP, an impressive feat considering only one other current MP in Queensland Parliament has achieved longer.

The Tully born MP is a previous railtrack worker and patriotic North Queenslander serving three electorates in his time, representing 19,000 constituents in the beginning to almost 42,000 currently. Knuth has fought through seven elections.

When asked for two words to describe the previous 20 years, Mr Knuth said travel and community come to

2004 Knuth candidate with wife Heather courtesy of Northern Miner

the top of his mind.

“I strongly believe in being in the community - just getting out there, talking to people from all different walks of life and backgrounds, tuning into the real issues,” Mr Knuth said.

“It takes a lot of travel given the size of the electorates I have represented, I think it’s fair to say I have gone through more cars than hats in my 20 years serving!”

Knuth recalls being a candidate in the beginning he would hitch rides to different towns in an electorate bigger than Victoria.

“It was hard yakka, technology has also changed a lot over the last 20 years, in the beginning we used to send out flyers, communication was letters and fax, response times from ministers was up to three months, emails were so new they were seldom used and there was little to no mobile coverage.”

“It hasn’t been an easy journey, they have done their best to get rid of me, including abolishing my previous electorates, but it has been an honour to serve all three Charters Towers, Dalrymple and now the electorate of Hill.”

In his short time representing Hill, some of Knuth’s achievements working along with the community include - new hospitals for Atherton and Dimbulah, Tully Grandstand, Atherton Community Centre, Innisfail Bowls Club, Feluga Intersection – to name a few. Knuth also played a major part seeing the completion of the Mission Beach Boating Infrastructure Project.

He’s also introduced two bills in the fight for the dairy industry, finally seeing an increase in a litre of milk for the farmers. Knuth also introduced the Sugar Marketing Bill which passed, at the time becoming only the eighth Private Members Bill to pass in Queensland history.

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Wet Tropic Times

Times WET TROPIC

Our First Edition Under the New Structure SARI RUSSO I am sure you can see this for yourself as you peruse the newspaper, but it is exciting to have achieved our first edition under the new structure.

There has been a lot of hard work by staff here at the Wet Tropic Times to achieve the restructure so I would like to take this opportunity for a shout out and say Thank You! You are all amazing.

I am sure you will notice that we have feature pages happening for specific areas and we appreciate people who are willing to let us know what is happening in their area so we can cover it.

So, let us know what is happening and if you have any concerns or suggestions also let us know.

The new podcast is still in production and will be coming soon.

HINCHINBROOK SHIRE COUNCIL CONGRATULATIONS to the Hinchinbrook Shire Australia Day Award Nominees for 2024 who have made an outstanding contribution to the community, and for their exceptional achievement in a variety of areas.

Junior Sports Award Liam Fascetti – Nominated for his sporting achievements, particularly in squash. Liam was selected as the number one player in the QLD Under 15 boys team after being crowned State Under 15 champion at Secondary Schools State titles. He was the Under 15 Northern Region Redbacks Champion for club squash as well as being selected as number four to play New Zealand in the Australian TransTasman Team. Liam has represented North QLD and QLD in both school and club squash and received the QLD Sharks Achievement Award for winning seven out of nine of his games at the Australian Championships.

Liam is currently ranked number one in North QLD and QLD, and number nine in Australia.

Jess Furber – Nominated for her sporting achievements in a range of sports. Jess represented Herbert River for gymnastics, netball, rugby league, athletics and touch football in 2023. Jess received a qualifying score and attended the 2023 Gymnastics QLD WAG (Womens Artistic Gymnastics) Senior State Championships where she placed top 10 in vault. She was selected for the 2023 Gilroy Santa Maria QISSN Netball team and the North QLD Netball Association Merit Team. Jess regularly assists with coaching and mentoring younger athletes.

Ally Rhodes – Nominated for her sporting achievements in squash. Ally was number one seeded player for North QLD Schoolgirls Squash Team. She was selected for the QLD schoolgirls open team to play in the Trans-Tasman Series against NSW and NZ. Ally was then selected in the combined NSW and QLD team to play New Zealand. Ally completed a level one coaching certificate and dedicates her time in helping to coach and mentor juniors and beginner players each week.

Brax Roveda – Nominated for his achievements

COMMUNITY

Thursday, February 8, 2024

Nominees for 2024 Hinchinbrook Shire Australia Day Awards

in soccer and futsal. Brax represented Our Lady of Lourdes for both futsal and soccer. Brax participated in Under 11 Northern Team at National School Futsal championships. He plays in the Northern Pulse Under 12 Futsal team and was chosen to represent Australia in the National Under 12 boys futsal team to play in Malaysia. Brax was also selected for Jeremy Brockie high performance squad at the Gold Coast for soccer.

Senior Sports Award Lachlan Erba – Nominated for his achievements in many sports. Lachlan was selected to represent North QLD Schools in squash, rugby league, touch football and rugby union and is a talented all rounder in these sports. He was selected in the QLD schoolboys squash team to compete at the Trans-Tasman Tri series in Sydney. Lachlan was then selected in the combined NSW and QLD team to play against New Zealand. Lachlan is an active member of the Herbert River Rugby League Crushers playing both Under 18 and A Grade teams. He was also selected in the Under 19 Townsville and Districts Blackhawks Rugby League Team.

Junior Cultural Award No nominations were received for this category.

Senior Cultural Award Vera Di Bella – Nominated for her contributions by promoting the arts in our community and fostering a love of music in the young. Vera generously gives her time and talent to various events, such as Maraka concerts, Senior’s morning teas, Ingham Theatre Group and Carols in the Park to name a few. She also trains childrens’ choirs and musicians from Abergowrie College.

Individual Achievement Award Juliene Collins – Nominated for her contributions to the community through her active volunteer fundraising commitments to various charities over many years.

Juliene assists her daughter in coordinating and raising funds for Palliative Care. She also coordinates fundraisers for work charities such as Red Kite. Juliene is selfless and willingly gives her own time towards many fundraising events.

Wesley Davis – Nominated for his contributions to the health and wellbeing of community members.

Wes volunteers his time to assist people in getting and keeping fit. He formed a group called Turnups, which is open to likeminded people wishing to get fit. He also arranges hikes and bike rides and provides motivational messages. Wes takes no payment, provides his time, patience, skills and motivation to help people young and old. He has recently been asked to train the Ingham Female Football Team and “Wheelin’ for Willy” team.

Robyn Fascetti – Nominated for her contributions to the community through her tireless efforts in volunteering in all aspects of the Ingham Football Club to ensure there is a future for the club. Robyn generously volunteers her time to attend committee meetings, canteen duty cleaning amenities, mowing and marking the grounds and coordinating six-a-side soccer. The work that goes on behind the scenes in these small clubs often goes unnoticed. Robyn was awarded Ingham Football Club - Club Person of the Year in recognition of her tireless efforts.

Rita Ferrari – Nominated for her contributions to the community through her volunteer involvement with the Queensland Blue Light Association Hinchinbrook Branch. Rita has taken on the role of fundraiser for the organisation and attends weekly fundraising events so the branch can continue to operate and provide U18 youth events and initiatives to our community. She also provides support to Kung Fu classes providing support on behalf of the Blue Light Branch.

Lauren Kopeshke – Nominated for her contributions to the community through volunteering her time on several committees and many events and fundraisers.

Lauren was Ingham State School P&C Secretary for nine years. She has also served on kindy committees

and volunteered for high school events. Lauren contributes to sporting clubs, including netball for which she regularly umpires and coaches. She has managed teams and organised participation in out of town carnivals. Despite being a busy working mum of three, she always goes above and beyond in her volunteer capacity.

Community Event of the Year Award No nominations were received for this category.

Shire Young Citizen Award Jake Goldring – Nominated for his contributions to the community as a local snake catcher and relocator, turtle and wildlife rescuer. He always makes himself available to anyone who needs assistance in his community. Jake was nominated for the North QLD Youth Volunteer Award in 2023 and out of 875 nominations, he was in the final three.

Shire Citizen Award Silvia Brown – Nominated for her contributions to the welfare of the community in providing excellent commitment as Nurse Navagator with Palliative Care at the Ingham Hospital. Silvia regularly drives to Townsville to assist patients in their recovery. She is bubbly, extremely supportive with palliative care and neurology and is brilliant at her job as a Registered Nurse, always going above and beyond in caring for her patients.

Juliene Collins – Nominated for her contributions for her active volunteer fundraising commitments as previously detailed.

Wesley Davis – Nominated for his contributions to the health and wellbeing of community members as previously stated.

Lauren Kopeshke – Nominated for her contributions through volunteering her time on several committees, many events and fundraisers as previously stated.

Felix Reitano – Nominated for his contributions to the community through involvement with various community organisations such as past President, Vice President and member of Hinchinbrook Chamber of Commerce, Tourism and Industry and past President of the Rotary Club of Herbert River. Felix is a past Commanding Officer of Ingham’s 31st Army Reserve Battalion – Captain (retired) and has been Battalion Committee Chair for approximately 25 years. He is a founding member of the Texas Terror Memorial Committee and has been a Justice of the Peace for approximately 47 years.

Weekly Bible Verse Galatians 2:20, NIV: I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.

COMMUNITY

Thursday, February 8, 2024

Wet Tropic2024 Times 8 FEBRUARY

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Australia Day Awards Presentation, Official Opening of the Driver Reviver Site and The Buzz on Mosquito Management Australia Day Awards Presentation Join us as we come together to celebrate residents who were nominated for the Hinchinbrook Shire Australia Day Awards.

Date: Friday 9 February 2024 Time: 6.00pm to 7.00pm Where: Hinchinbrook Shire Hall 25 Lannercost Street Ingham Cost: Free event Official Opening of the Driver Reviver Site The official opening of the Driver Reviver site at the Hinchinbrook Visitor Information Centre took place on Wednesday 24 January 2024 after previously being postponed due to Tropical Cyclone Jasper.

With over 180 sites nationwide, Driver Reviver plays a crucial role in addressing fatigue related road trauma.

The Ingham site, run by a team of dedicated volunteers, will provide

weary travellers with a much-needed break during their journey.

As part of the initiative, visitors can stop and enjoy a complimentary cup of Bushell’s tea or coffee, along with a selection of Arnott’s biscuits.

Driver Reviver site opening hours are Monday to Friday 9.00am – 5.00pm, Saturday and Sunday 9.00am – 4.00pm.

Council wishes to thank Coles Ingham for sponsoring the Driver Reviver program.

The Buzz on Mosquito Management Recent heavy rains have led to a surge in mosquito populations across the district. Council is continuing to execute its systematic mosquito control program on Council land and select Unallocated State Land to help mitigate the annoyance of mosquitoes and prevent the transmission of mosquito borne diseases.

Council uses best practice chemical control methods that have been developed

and approved specifically for mosquito control activities.

These control methods specifically target mosquito larvae in ponded water bodies and retard the larvae from maturing into adult mosquitoes. Through Council’s control program, fresh and saltwater sources are treated, including underground drainage infrastructure in built up areas.

Unfortunately, continuing heavy rains after application reduces the effectiveness of this control method, hence the perception of increased aggravation. Council does not conduct ‘knock down’ aerial fogging of adult mosquitoes within the Shire, as this method of control is relatively ineffective.

Although Council is already doing what it can to reduce mosquito populations in urban areas, residents are reminded that under the Public Health Regulation, householders have a responsibility to prevent mosquitoes from breeding on their property.

Simply cleaning up items that hold water or emptying out containers and disposing of palm fronds in and around your house significantly reduces the opportunity for mosquitoes to breed. Further, it prevents the risk of spreading mosquito borne diseases such as Dengue Fever and various viruses that can affect people’s health.

There are many options for people wanting to protect themselves against mosquitoes, including wearing long, light-coloured clothing, insect repellent, as well as knockdown and residual insecticides that are readily available from suppliers.

Low cost mosquito larvicide pellets (NOMOZ®) are available to purchase for $10 from Council’s Main Office located at 25 Lannercost Street Ingham.

Similar to the commercial products Council employs, NOMOZ® Pellets prevent mosquito larvae from developing into adult mosquitoes for up to six

months and can be used in small natural and artificial water bodies around your property.

For further information, please contact Council’s Biosecurity Team.

February 2024 Mega Movie Weekend Join us at the JL Kelly Theatre for the February 2024 Mega Movie Weekend: • Night Swim (M) - 6.30pm Friday 16 February 2024; • Migration (G) - 10.30am Saturday 17 February 2024; • The Beekeeper (MA15+) - 2.30pm Saturday 17 February 2024; • Mean Girls (PG) - 6.30pm Saturday 17 February 2024; and • The Boys in the Boat (PG) - 10.30am Sunday 18 February 2024.

Pre-purchase your tickets from www.hinchinbrooktickets. com.au or simply buy at the door.

Current Procurement and Tender Opportunities

Half Yearly Rate Notices

Half Yearly Rate Notices will be issued today, Thursday 8 February 2024 and due for payment on or before Keep up to date with opportunities available through Sunday 31 March 2024.

Council by visiting the Current Procurement and Property owners are encouraged to check the details Tender Opportunities page on Council’s website. on their Rate Notices.

Current opportunities include: A Schedule of Rates and Charges will also be included • HSC 23/22 - Forrest Beach Water Treatment with your notice.

Plant and Water Tower Remedial Works.

Interest is charged on overdue rates at 11.64% per annum. Ratepayers may discuss a payment plan Council invites tenders from suitably qualified by contacting Council. Council offers a variety of contractor to undertake remediation works on the payment options including online, via telephone, mail water treatment plant building and the water tower or by visiting Council’s Main Office. both located at Forrest Beach.

Do not forget, if you pay on or before the due date Tender closes 2.00pm Wednesday 28 February and have no rates in arrears, you will go into the Works Notice 2024. draw to win $2,000 to be spent locally at up to five Hinchinbrook Shire businesses of your choice.

Cockrell Street, Skinner Street, Following the close of tenders, to assist in the tender Davidson Street and Dickson Street evaluation process, Council may invite tenderers to The winner will be drawn at Council’s General Meeting to be held on Tuesday 23 April 2024.

Council wishes to advise kerb and channel renewal a meeting to discuss project methodology.

Council encourages ratepayers who may have works have commenced on Cockrell Street, Skinner difficulty with payments to discuss a payment plan Street, Davidson Street and Dickson Street Ingham. An onsite inspection will commence at 9.30am as soon as possible. Ratepayers also have access to Ongoing works will occur between 7.00am and Thursday 15 February 2024 at the Forrest Beach assistance under Council’s Financial Hardship Policy. 6.00pm weekdays and between 7.00am and 4.00pm Water Tower. on Saturday’s, with a number of traffic conditions in RSVP to rshepherd@hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au or place during these times.

Phone 4776 4706 by 5.00pm Tuesday 13 February For further information on current roadworks, please 2024. visit Council’s website, Roadworks page or contact Should you require further information, please Council on 4776 4671. contact Council’s Procurement Services on Council would like to thank you for your cooperation 4776 4665. during this necessary phase of works.

C O N N EC T WITH COUNCIL

4776 4600 council@hinchinbrook.qld.gov.au HinchinbrookShireCouncil HINCHINBROOK.QLD.GOV.AU

8

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Thursday February 8 2024

Ingham News COMMUNITY

Wet Tropic Times

Thursday, Thursday, January February25, 8, 2024

8 Ingham, Halifax, Mt Fox, Lucinda, Trebonne, and Forest Beach RSL Outing for Palm Resident OUR lunch outing continues once a month and again we chose the RSL, some of our Palms Residents which included family enjoyed the air conditioning and great food.

These outings are also a great way for both Palms families and residents to join in with

the community and spend time outside.

Abergowrie State School Preps for 2024

Halifax State School welcome their students to 2024

THE new preps for Abergowrie State School are enjoying becoming part of the Abergowrie family and having fun as they do.

IT was a fantastic first day back for the students.

They were focussed on their learning and welcomed Cameron our new little preppie who is brother to Nevaeh.

Darren, Jason & Beaudie Oakes M: 0478 669 350 E: inghammowingservices@gmail.com We whip, mow & blow your lawns to perfection. Also small tree trimming, dump runs & driveway cleaning.

Ingham Mowing Services

BARBER – INGHAM

Walk Right In, Sit Right Down For OPEN:

Gents Haircuts ............... $15 Monday to Ladies Trims....................$25 Saturday Children Haircuts............ $15 Cynthia, 20 Lannercost St, INGHAM  Ph: 0400 393 089

BAIT ~ FISHING TACKLE ~ HOMEBREW & CAMPING SUPPLIES BOAT & TRAILER ACCESSORIES ~ PORTA LOO CHEMICALS

Felix Reitano Furniture 109 Cartwright Steet, INGHAM PHONE: 4776 5007

REMOVALS

halifaxhomebrewtackle@bigpond.com

32 MACROSSAN STREET HALIFAX QLD 4850

PH 07 477 77234

Large Range In Stock Now

Across Town, Across State or Across Country

COMMUNITY

Thursday, February 8, 2024

COMMUNITY CONNECT

Wet Tropic Times

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9

One Coast - Cassowary Coast

CASSOWARY COAST CELEBRATES Nominees: Kari Cini, Kyanna Wirth, Maeve Lowe, Jason Schramm AUSTRALIA DAY 2024

The Cassowary Coast came alive this Australia Day with a series of celebrations to welcome new citizens, award the region’s most dedicated, and party by the pool with free sausage sizzles throughout the region.

Fourteen new Australians from eight countries pledged their commitment to Australia in a citizenship ceremony hosted by the Mayor.

Twenty-three recipients of Australia Day Awards were announced at an evening ceremony where Richard Graham was named Citizen of the Year, and Rikki-Lee Broccardo Young Citizen of the Year.

Four Youth Sports Bursaries were awarded acknowledging outstanding achievements in sport.

Three SES units and groups were recipients of the Mayor’s Community Spirit Award.

Hundreds turned out across four pool parties that were held across the Cassowary Coast with free entertainment and sausage sizzles.

Australia Day Award recipients were: CITIZEN OF YEAR Richard Graham Nominees: Mahgan Robinson, Dave Pedley, Chrys Tait, Fr. Kerry Crowley, Thea Ormonde, Jane Berge, Brad Grace.

YOUNG CITIZEN OF THE YEAR Rikki-Lee Broccardo

LIFETIME CONTRIBUTION Chrys Tait, Les Moule, Craig Marturia, Ninney Murray Nominees: Ken Gray SPORTS PERSON OF THE YEAR Emily O’Brien Nominees: Kate Walker, Miki Toquero YOUNG SPORTS PERSON OF THE YEAR Kai Greven Nominees: Shaun Riley, Korey Roberts, Keean Greven, Denan Anderson, Elle Gracie, Ruby Torrisi, Mia Wilson, Ethan English, Alex Greenwood, Kadyn McDermid

YOUNG SUSTAINABLE ENVIRONMENT Kyanna Wirth ACHIEVEMENT Blue EDGE Program Michael Sands & Mick Maguire Nominee: Chrys Tait COMMUNITY EVENT / PROJECT Innisfail Bowls Club Centenary Nominees: Innisfail Riverfest 2023, Paradise Run Mission Beach

MAYOR’S COMMUNITY SPIRIT AWARD State Emergency Services (S.E.S) Innisfail, Tully, Cardwell.

SPORTS BURSARY MALE 13-18 YEARS Kai Greven Nominees: Jayden Wilson, Denan Anderson, Kaiden Roberts SPORTS BURSARY FEMALE 13-18 YEARS Mia Wilson Arianna Martin, Emily O’Brien, Charlize Gee, Sophie McCallum.

COMMUNITY GROUP St Vincent De Paul Mother of Good Counsel Conference, Etty JUNIOR SPORTS BURSARY MALE Bay SLSC, Mission Beach 8-12 YEARS Shaun Riley Wildcare Inc. Nominees: Bailey Wilson, Reef Nominees: Frog Safe Inc, Define Normal Life Style Supports Innisfail, Dickson.

Mission Beach Historical Society Inc, JUNIOR SPORTS BURSARY Paradise Run Mission Beach.

FEMALE 8-12 YEARS Elle Gracie SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY,

CCRC

SERVICE TO SPORTS AWARD Nadine O’Farrell Nominees: Brayden Huey, Maria Crema, Blaise Cini

ARTS & CULTURE AWARD Mission Beach Historical Society YOUNG ARTS AND CULTURE Emily Muriata Nominees: Leyna Tran, Luke O’Neil.

SUSTAINABLE ENVIRONMENT Constance (Connie) Symons, Judy Ronland Nominees: Anne Foggit, Kenneth Andrew.

CONNECT WITH US

ENGINEERING AND MATHS IN AUSTRALIA DAY PHOTOGRAPHY EDUCATION COMPETITION Alicia Magnanini, St Rita’s School First Place: Cameron Anderson South Johnstone Second Place: Selina Wirth Third Place: Jane Stark 2024 YOUNG ENTREPRENEUR People’s Choice: Jane Stark Satkirat Kaur FIRST NATIONS’ FIRE AWARD Hannah Beeron Nominee: Mia Wilson

READ MORE cassowarycoast.qld.gov.au /cassowarycoastregionalcouncil

EXCELLENCE AND INNOVATION Rebecca Mosk

subscribe for Council news at yoursay.cassowarycoast.qld.gov.au/register

Tully News 10

10

Thursday February 8 2024

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COMMUNITY

Wet Tropic Times

Tully, Euramo,

Thursday, Thursday, January February25, 8, 2024

Lower Tully, Feluga, and El Arish

Australia Day Tully Nursing Home Tully Nursing Home Art and Craft THE residents of the nursing home shared in food and friendship as they celebrated Australia.

THE residents of the nursing home were able to enjoy building friendship whilst creating art and craft that captured beautiful butterflies.

Happy Birthday Dorina

Celebrating Dorina’s Birthday at Tully Nursing Home.

BUILDER OF NEW HOMES / RENOVATIONS / EXCAVATIONS AND TIP TRUCK HIRE QBCC REGISTERED 1240132

www.purkonconstructions.com.au andrew@purkonconstructions.com.au

ANDREW PURKISS BUILDER/OPERATOR

0410 577 944

RELIABLE

RESSURE CLEANING

 Domestic and Industrial  Driveways - Paths - Shed Floors  House (Exterior) and Roofs and Mould Removal  Gutter Cleaning  Machinery

Contact Trevor and Brenton Edwards 0427 665 571 or 0428 842 151

Thursday, February 8, 2024

School

TULLY

Wet Tropic Times

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11

CRIME WRAP Police St Clare's School, Tully WELCOME their new Preps for 2024.

There are lots of smiling faces and eager students ready to start learning!

Check your driver's licence expiry date now!

JANE MORAN | SENIOR CONSTABLE | FAR NORTH COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT UNIT TABLELANDS police want to remind motorists of the importance of ensuring they hold a current licence. This reminder comes after offices detected a number of motorists in recent weeks with expired licenses or have never held a driver's license.

On a daily basis, police hear all sorts of excuses as to why a motorist is not aware of the status of their licence. This can include: "Oh, I didn't realise it had expired."

"But it's only been expired for a month."

Do yourself a favour, grab your driver's licence and check the expiry date on it.

Some of you may be shocked to discover your licence has expired.

Literacy and Numeracy with Tully State School Preps SOME of the Prep students at Tully State school working hard and having fun with their literacy and numeracy rotations.

If it is, you are now driving unlicensed.

Not only are you committing an offence, but should you have a crash, the consequences are far-reaching.

Court, fines, and the insurance you thought you had may now be null and void because you are unlicensed!

What can constitute driving without a licence?

• Your driver licence has expired, and you have not renewed it.

• You do not hold the class of licence for the vehicle you are driving.

• You have never held a driver licence.

• Your driver licence has been suspended because of an accumulation of demerit points or a high-speed offence.

• Your driver licence has been immediately suspended or you have been immediately disqualified following a drink driving or drug driving offence.

• Your driver licence has been suspended by the State Penalties Enforcement Registry because you have not paid fines.

• You have been disqualified from holding or obtaining a driver licence.

• After completing a period of disqualification, you have not applied for a licence.

Make sure your driver licence is current and whilst you at it, check the status of your vehicle registration.

To check the status of your licence and vehicle registration visit www.qld.gov.au/ transport Additional information can be found on the QPS webpage, which includes fact sheets together with a Business Security Assessment that may assist in improving security measures at your business:

TropicTimes Times Thursday, February 8, 2024 Page 16 12 Wet| WetTropic

Friday, March 12, 2021

Spoil your Girl with flowers and Gifts VALENTINE'S DAY ARRANGEMENTS MADE FOR YOUR SPECIAL GIRL!

Set the stage for a romantic Valentine’s Day with beautiful blooms.

Call Naomi & the girls today at Petals & Beanz to order expertly arranged florals, sweet treats, balloons & gifts all in the one place.

Local Delivery available from Tully - Mission Beach

Phone - 40681780

RECEIVE A GIFT when you purchase any Najo or Sybella brands plus receive

20% OFF *

selected items in store! *Tʼs & Cʼs Apply.

Innisfail Food Emporium, 20 Edith St, Innisfail 4860

lorraejewellers.com • 07 4061 1324

Friday, March 12, 2021

Wet Tropic8, Times Wet Tropic Times, Thursday, February 2024| 13 Page 17

FOCUS ON RURAL

Farmers rally to halt Labor’s reckless renewables rollout

Farmers from around Australia will gather outside Parliament House today, (Tuesday, February 6,) alongside small businesses and residents of impacted communities, to warn about the inevitable rising food and energy prices under Labor’s reckless race towards renewables.

The National Rally Against Reckless Renewables is calling for the suspension of Labor’s plans to rip up agricultural land, which will destroy farming communities and reduce the supply of food, therefore driving up food prices.

Leader of The Nationals David Littleproud said regional Australia was being forced to bear the brunt of inner-city ideology and regional communities were being destroyed as a result, with little consultation.

five hundred-watt panels need to be installed every day, or 60 million by 2030. Labor will also require 34 times the current amount of utility-scale variable renewable energy in the national electricity market to meet its hydrogen export ambitions.

Victorian farmer Ben Duxson, who has 8500 merino sheep as well as canola, barley and wheat on his 5500-acre farm in Kanya, southern Wimmera, will attend the Canberra rally.

“No one in our area wants anything to do with windfarms, solar or transmission lines, because we are farmers of food and fibre, not energy,” Mr Duxson said.

“Labor is not thinking about the environment or the social or financial impact and my message to Labor is ‘start again’.

Food and fibre security, sustainability and affordability are all in jeopardy if this plan goes ahead. We will fight against the reckless plan Labor has for Australia’s energy sector.”

“Labor is pursuing a reckless 82 per cent renewables target by 2030, which is driving up costs and threatening agricultural land, regional communities and native flora and fauna,” Mr Littleproud said.

National Rational Energy Group vice-chair and Kilkivan Action Group organiser Katy McCallum is also attending the rally, pleading with Labor to call for a Senate Inquiry, suspend harmful renewable projects and lift the ban on nuclear.

“We need to know how much agricultural land is earmarked, where is it earmarked and when will the projects be forced onto local communities? We also need to know how much these projects will cost taxpayers and what are the protection rights of property owners?

She believes skinks are in danger of becoming extinct if the $14.2 billion Borumba Pumped Hydro and the Forest Wind projects in Wide Bay, Queensland, goes ahead.

“We are in the fight of our lives, things are bad up here,” Mrs McCallum said.

“We have time to pause, to plan and to use common sense.

Sadly, it’s becoming obvious that renewables are losing their social licence because they are destroying the very thing they were designed to protect, including native vegetation and endangered species.”

“They are going to push this through and destroy our state because they can. We need a federal Senate Inquiry, this needs to stop.

For Labor to meet its targets, 40 7-megawatt wind turbines will need to be installed every month until 2030, while 22,000

HCPSL invites growers to attend their respective seed plot meetings. The meetings will be attended by the HCPSL manager and the local seed plot officer for that area.

Topics will include; • •

Forecasting varieties for planting in 2024 (2025 distribution) 2024 distribution plots 2024 approved seed orders

Date

Time

Location/Venue

14th Feb 14th Feb 15th Feb 15th Feb

8am 1pm 8am 1pm

15th Feb

5pm

Stone River CWA Hall (Stone River Abergowrie CWA Hall (Abergowrie) Macknade TFD (Lower Herbert) Bambaroo Rural Fire Service Shed (Ingham Line) HCPSL Meeting Room (Central Herbert)

Phone RSVP Sandra/ Melissa on 47761808 for catering purposes.

“Alarmingly, we have been unable to locate any reference to the Nangur Spiny Skink in the literature we have so far located...

We have serious concerns that this critically endangered species (listed under the EPBC Act and the NC Act) may live in areas where the transmission lines have been proposed. The loss of even one Nangur Skink, let alone a mating pair, would be criminal and attract international condemnation.”

Mrs McCallum said it was a strange coincidence that on December 12, 2023, the Courier Mail then reported the Department of Environment had released 14 of the Nangur spiny skinks into the wild.

Gympie DES releases critically endangered Nangur spiny skinks | The Courier Mail “If the government is so concerned about skinks, they should halt the Borumba Pumped Hydro project,” Mrs McCallum said.

“It is a huge worry and none of it adds up.”

“We need the message out there that the world knows what they are about to do. The skink is living up here and is in danger of becoming extinct but Labor has failed to list the skink in any assessment.”

2024 HCPSL Seed Plot Meetings

•

Mrs McCallum wrote a submission to Labor’s Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek on November 15, 2023, writing in her concerns:

RETIREMENT OF A LOCAL LEGEND

TONY ‘TICK’ MCCLINTOCK

AFTER 47 years of service to the Herbert Cane Productivity Services Ltd (HCPSL), and sugarcane growers across the region, Tony ‘Tick’ McClintock has decided to call it time.

At the tender age of seventeen, Tony commenced work on the 4th of May 1976, which at the time was with the Macknade Pest Destruction Board based at the Macknade Mill. The team of two, including Tony, serviced growers in the Macknade area focusing on pest and disease control.

In 1992, the Macknade Pest Board and Victoria Pest Board amalgamated to form Herbert Cane Protection and Productivity Board (HCPPB). At which time Tony joined a growing team of five in an office at the Herbert River Canegrowers building, before later relocating to the current offices on Fairford road.

When the HCPPB became the Herbert Cane Productivity Services Ltd in 2002, Tony again joined another growing team which by his retirement saw 15 staff working to provide services to growers across the Herbert region.

Whether providing growers with on-farm pest and disease advice, distributing clean seed cane, or providing solutions to drainage issues through the laser level service, Tony ‘Tick’ McClintock gained immense respect from growers, fellow HCPSL staff, and industry stakeholders.

Tony’s familiar face and wisdom around the office and kitchen table will be sadly missed by all. As one grower jokingly put it, “Tick will be missed at smoko time all round the district”.

From everyone who had the pleasure of working alongside and with Tick, we wish him and his family all the very best in his well-deserved retirement.

14

Thursday February 8 2024

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Innisfail News COMMUNITY

Wet Tropic Times

Thursday, February 8, 2024

14 Innisfail, Mourilyan, Mirriwinni, and Babinda Local heroes recognised at Cassowary Coast Regional Council’s Australia Day Awards

Cassowary Coast Regional Council Australia Day 2024 award winners.

MARIA GIRGENTI A BUDDING young entrepreneur, environmental warriors and a dedicated STEM teacher were among those acknowledged at the Cassowary Coast Australia Day awards presentation held for the first time on January 25 at the Johnstone Shire Hall.

Young Citizen of the Year: Rikki-Lee Broccardo Lifetime Contribution: Chrys Tait, Craig Marturia, Ninney Murray and Les Moule Community Event/Project of the Year: Innisfail Bowls Club Centenary Young Sports Person of the Year: Kai Greven

Tully State High School Principal, Richard Graham, named as Citizen of the Year, has been a long-term volunteer of various community groups in the Cassowary Coast region, including Innisfail Community Band, Innisfail Young Performers Competition, Far North Queensland Instrumental Music Working Party and Combined Sports Association.

Sports Person of the Year: Emily O’Brien

Young Citizen of the Year, Rikki-Lee Broccardo, 2023 Miss Riverfest Queen, received recognition for her contributions to the community, as a Youth Advisory Committee member, and dedication to the Innisfail-Fitzgerald Rotary Club.

Arts and Cultural Award: ‘Echo of the Past’ Exhibition - photographs from Mission Beach 1890s - 1950s - Mission Beach Historical Society

2024 Australia Day Award recipients: Citizen of the Year: Richard Graham

Service to O’Farrell

Sports

Award:

Nadine

Young Sustainable Environment Award: Kyanna Wirth Sustainable Environment Award: Connie Symons and Judy Ronland

Achievement Award: PCYC Blue EDGE program - Michael Sands and Michael Maguire Community Group Award: St Vincent de Paul Good Counsel Conference, Etty Bay Surf Lifesaving Club and Mission Beach Wildcare Inc Young Entrepreneur Award: Satkirat Kaur Inaugural First Nations’ Fire Award: Hannah Beeron Mayor’s Community Spirit Award: Innisfail, Tully and Cardwell SES Units and Groups (tireless work during exTropical Cyclone Jasper and subsequent flooding events) Excellence and Innovation Award: Rebecca Mosk (Mission Beach State School) 2024 Youth Sports Bursaries included for the first time with the Australia Day Awards ceremony Junior Sports Male (8 - 12 years): Shaun Riley Junior Sports Female (8 - 12 years): Elle Gracie Junior Sports Male (13 - 18 years): Kai Greven Junior Sports Female (13 - 18 years): Mia Wilson ‘Home’ Australia Day photography competition winners: 1st: Cameron Anderson 2nd: Selina Wirth 3rd: Jane Stark People’s Choice Award: Jane Stark

Young Arts and Cultural Award: Emily Muriata

Colin Wilkie (right) from Tully Tigers Rugby League Football Club, congratulated Shaun Riley, recipient of the Junior Sports Male (8 - 12 years) CCRC Youth Sports Bursary. Photo: CCRC Vince Sofia.

This year’s CCRC Citizen of the Year, Richard Graham and Young Citizen of the Year, Rikki-Lee Broccardo had the honour of cutting the Australia Day cake.

Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) in Education Award: Alicia Magnanini (St Rita’s School, South Johnstone)

Rebecca Mosk received the Excellence & Innovation Award.

Photo: CCRC - Vince Sofia.

Constance (Connie) Symons received a Sustainable Environment Award. Photo: CCRC – Vince Sofia.

Thursday, February 8, 2024

INNISFAIL

Wet Tropic Times

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15

Rural Microplastics monitoring in Mamu country

TERRAIN INDIGENOUS rangers lead water monitoring project Microplastics are now being monitored on beaches and in rivers and creeks in the Innisfail region as part of a larger project focused on improving the health of waterways.

Mamu Indigenous Rangers will be testing for microplastics at a number of sites, sharing their results with a national program and, where they can,

looking for solutions to reduce plastic pollution.

Microplastics are plastics that have broken up into very small particles in the environment, as well as plastic products like microbeads which are used in a range of cleaning, cosmetic and personal care items, or microfibres shed from clothing and other textiles like fishing nets.

Mamu Senior Ranger Francis Joyce said plastic pollution was one of the issues listed by traditional owners at community meetings last year when planning began for the waterway health project, which is being delivered in partnership with Terrain NRM. Rangers have recently received training from AUSMAP, the Australian Microplastic Assessment Project team which records data collected by a network of researchers and citizen scientists to create a map of microplastic pollution hotspots around Australia.

The information is helping to regulate industries and enabling communities and governments to develop better waste management systems.

“We’ll be setting up sampling areas, sieving sand, counting and categorising plastics,’’ Francis said.

“Hopefully, further down the track, this data can tell a story. There’s also potential to track plastics to their source if a lot of the same kind of microplastics are detected.”

The Mamu Healthy Waterways Project includes monthly water sampling across the Johnstone River catchment, testing for nutrients, pesticides and suspended solids. The project, which is funded by the partnership between the Australian Government’s Reef Trust and the Great Barrier Reef Foundation, is building on existing water quality monitoring in the region and combining science with cultural knowledge and values.

Rangers have also received training in eDNA sampling.

“This kind of sampling will help us to determine whether our culturally significant species are present or absent in waterways and from there we can develop management plans,’’ Francis said.

“All this information will give everyone a snapshot of waterway health and a better understanding to move towards solutions. By working together and building partnerships with organisations we can create a more sustainable future.”

School

A new playground extension at C&K Mourilyan and District Kindergarten STORY AND PHOTO BY MARIA GIRGENTI C&K MOURILYAN District Kindergarten

is sporting a brand-new playground extension, thanks to a successful Queensland Government Gambling Community Benefit Fund of $78,325 and $10,000 from GEMCO - South 32, a mining company in Groote Eylandt.

The kindergarten also contributed $50,000 from their savings and fundraising efforts over the past three years, which included bake sales and raffles.

This project, built by LEAP Innovations from Townsville reached completion late in 2023.

A landscaped garden, with gardenias and local plants which grow in the shade, cowbells, wind chimes, xylophone and slide complete the new playground, which the children have already made full use of.

Made of local natural timbers, the playground includes monkey bars, fireman’s pole, and rock climb designed to increase children’s gross motor muscles.

"Educators also follow a child focused program, but we also work on specific skills such as problem solving, risk taking, gross and fine motor skills, along with well-being, social and emotional development," said Ms Charlwood.

Early childhood educators, Jo Charlwood,Tanya and Jewelz and the children at C&K Mourilyan District Kindergarten celebrated completion of their playground extension.

Classifieds

Call 4776 0485

to place your advertisement or email: ads@wettropictimes.com.au

POSITIONS VACANT

PUBLIC NOTICES Proposed Development

Tully, Queensland

Make a submission from 09 February to 01 March 2024

NEW & USED CAR SALESPERSON Bartrac Toyota, a Toyota Dealership established in 1974, is a locally owned and operated business. With a 45year history of serving our region, we emphasize customer focus and team spirit. Our commitment to superior service and customer care has been consistently upheld from one generation to the next.

Tully, situated on the picturesque Cassowary Coast in Far North Queensland, is an agricultural township.

Positioned midway between Townsville and Cairns, it offers proximity to essential amenities and is just a 20-minute drive from Mission Beach, providing an ideal opportunity for a refreshing sea or tree change.

A permanent full-time position has become available in our Sales Department. Whilst not essential, previous Dealership (Toyota) experience is preferred.

To be successful in this role you will need to be a great team player, working together with all our departments to ensure the best possible results for our customers.

Reporting directly to the Dealer Principal, you will need: • Prior experience – minimum of 2 years • Strong communication and negotiation skills • Excellent sales and service skills, with a high regard for our customers’ needs • Thorough knowledge of vehicles, features, and products (training will be provided for Toyota vehicles) • Proactive in generating new sales leads as well as maintaining existing sales contacts • Attention to detail throughout the sales process, as well as after-sales service • Good computer literacy (training will be provided in our company’s software) • Current open driver's license in good standing

Telecommunications Facility (Monopole, Antennas and Equipment Shelter/Cabinets – Max Height: 40m) Where: Silvio Road, MOURILYAN QLD 4858 On: Lot 7 on SP273331 Approval sought: Development Permit for Material Change of Use Application ref: MCU23/0045 You may obtain a copy of the application and make a submission to: Cassowary Coast Regional Council PO Box 887, Innisfail QLD 4860 enquiries@cassowarycoast.qld.gov.au 1300 763 903 www.cassowarycoast.qld.gov.au

Public notification requirements are in accordance with the Planning Act 2016 www.developmentsigns.com.au

Tully Darts AGM 18th February at Euramo Hotel - 10am start for nominations of teams.

New members welcome.

Enquires contact: Charlie - 0427480372

Full training will be provided.

Saturday overtime required on a rotational basis

Call 4776

Call 4776

!

0485 NOW

!

0485 NOW

To apply - Send resume to sales@qldsteel.net.au or in person to 8 Anderson Street, Tully.

Supervising contact person - Chris Stoter.

PUBLIC NOTICES CONROY MARKETS Date: Feb 10th 7.30-11.30am Book a spot 0417792602

Call 4776

!

0485 NOW

Etty Bay SLSC AGM held 3rd March @4pm All members welcome

OW!

485 N 0 6 7 7 4 l Cal

Call 4776

!

0485 NOW

SATURDAY DATES EYES DOWN 2PM February 10TH & 24TH MARCH 9TH & 23RD APRIL 6TH & 20TH MAY 4th & 18th JUNE 1ST, 15TH & 29TH

Call 4776

!

0485 NOW

Need a discrete cuddle with all the love & friendship you need?

So do I, give me a ring on 0408377759 and let’s catch up for a chat and some Lunch.

Seniors Most Welcome.

PUBLIC NOTICE

POSITION VACANT TRUCK DRIVER/YARDPERSON - FULL TIME Qld Steel & Equipment is seeking a full time Truck Driver/Yardperson to join our team.

QUALIFICATIONS & ATTRIBUTES Need to be physically fit Must be able to work unsupervised Enjoy being part of a team Need a forklift licence or be willing to get one Some understanding of Workplace Health & Safety Need to be Punctual, Reliable and Motivated MR Truck licence required, HC would be awesome but not essential

TUESDAY DATES EYES DOWN 9AM FEBRUARY 6th & 20th MARCH 5th and 19th APRIL 2nd, 16th & 30th MAY 14th & 28th JUNE 11th & 25th

Looking for female friend

Remuneration will be according to the relevant award and commensurate with the successful candidate’s demonstrated abilities and experience, as well as commission on sales.

For more information please call 4068 1566

Cardwell RSL, 36 Roma St

EVERYONE IS WELCOME, WITH MORNING TEA/ AFTERNOON TEA AVAILABLE

Applications must address the criteria listed above. Bartrac considers this position key in their ongoing commitment to customer service and satisfaction. For this reason, only suitably qualified persons should apply.

Applications, including your current resume and covering letter should be emailed to: michell@bartractoyota. com.au

NEW CARDWELL BINGO

Classifieds

Call 4776 0485

to place your advertisement or email: ads@wettropictimes.com.au

PUBLIC NOTICES PROPOSAL TO UPGRADE A TELSTRA MOBILE PHONE BASE STATION AT LOT 3 ON RP723282 DUNK QLD 4852, SITE ID: DUNK ISLAND RT, WWW.RFNSA.COM.AU/4816011

PAYMENT OF RATES Rates for the period 1 January 2024 to 30 June 2024 were issued on Wednesday, 24 January 2024.

The closing date for ALL ratepayers paying rates is FRIDAY, 23 February 2024.

A discount of 5% will apply to the General Rates only and will be allowed if payment of all rates and charges are received on or before close of business on the last day of the discount period as set out on the rates notice.

Rates outstanding after the closing date will accrue interest at the rate of 11.64% p.a. compounded daily and charged monthly. Should you not be able to make payment in full by the due date, please contact the Rates Section to discuss your payment arrangement options.

Council will allow property owners who are unable to pay their rates by the due date to enter into an agreed payment arrangement. Please contact Council’s Rates Section to discuss. Should rates not be paid in full by the due date, the discount will not be applied. Please note: A direct debit facility is not a payment arrangement.

Reminder: Council no longer accepts cash or cheque payments. Australian banknotes and coins or cheque payments can be used for payment at Australia Post outlets.

Payment of rates may be made using any one of the following options:Payment by Bpay By internet or by phone, contact your participating Bank, Credit Union or Building Society to make a payment from your cheque, savings or credit card account. Please quote the Biller Code 243386 and Reference Number as shown on the front of the rate notice. Also refer to your financial institution for cut off times for processing of payments.

Payment by Australia Post Present your notice to any Australia Post outlet, call 13 18 16 or go to www.postbillpay.com.au Please note, Australia Post accepts cash and cheque.

Payment by Bpoint Call Cassowary Coast Regional Council on 1300 276 468 any time or visit www.cassowarycoast.qld.gov.au and follow the links to make this payment from your Mastercard or Visa.

Paying in Person Council Offices - Payments can be made by eftpos & credit card (Mastercard, Visa & Amex) at one of the following locations: Innisfail Office

Tully Office

Cardwell Library

70 Rankin Street, Innisfail Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday 8:30am – 4:30pm Wednesday – 9:30am – 4:30pm Ph: 1300 763 903

38-40 Bryant Street, Tully Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday 8:30am – 4:30pm Wednesday – 9:30am – 4:30pm Ph: 1300 763 903

4 Balliol Street, Cardwell Mon – 10:00am – 5:00pm Tues – 9:00am – 1:00pm / 2:00pm to 5:00pm.

Wed & Thurs – 9:00am – 5:00pm Friday – Closed Ph: 1300 763 903

1. The proposed facility comprises the swap out of; two redundant Omni antennas (2 x 3300mm L) with four new Omni antennas (4 x 3414mm L); one (1) redundant parabolic dish with a new parabolic dish (1 x 600mm diameter) and a new GPS antenna; ancillary equipment to be upgraded including remote radio units, tower mounted amplifiers, mounts, cabling and feeders; and internal works within the equipment shelter, to improve Telstra’s mobile phone network (including 4G / 5G).

2. The proposed works are considered exempt development under the Cassowary Coast Regional Planning Scheme 2015 and development approval is not required. The proposed infrastructure will comply with the ACMA EME regulatory arrangements.

3. In accordance with Section 7 of C564:2020 Mobile Phone Base Station Deployment Code, we invite you to provide feedback about the proposal. Further information and/or comments should be directed to: Planning Consultant on behalf of Telstra, via email to telstra.submissions@servicestream.com.au, phone: 0487 949 301, via post to Planning Consultant, Servicestream, 129 Pilbara Street, Welshpool, WA 6106 by 5pm 23rd February 2024.

Service Stream Ltd ABN 46 072 369 870 Telstra Ltd ACN 086 174 781

Church times across the region

Sorry for only fitting Sudoku and not the Cross word

For any further information, please contact Council on 1300 763 903.

Signed:

AOG / ACC / Churches of Christ Tully Family Church,

Innisfail,

9am, Sun, 2 Watkins St, Tully

9:30am, Sun, 12 Tierney St,

Cardwell AOG, 9:30am Sun, Shire Hall, Cardwell Mission Beach Family

0 7 47 76 0 48 5 HARD

Cross Culture Church, 10am, Sun, 28-32 Townsville Road, Ingham Churches of Christ Care Rockingham Home Aged Care Service,

Cardwell Sugar Reef Baptist Church, 9:30am, S, “The Knightclub” 38 Herbert St, Ingham Baptist Independent, 11am, Sun, 77 Halifax Rd, Ingham

9am Fri, 3rd Fri of month,

Uniting Churches

40 Jamieson St, Cardwell

Cassowary Coast

Catholic Churches

Uniting Churchs:

St Rita’s Babinda,

Innisfail,

7am, Sun, 15 Church St,

10.30am, Sun, 8 Scullen Ave,

Babinda

Mighell, Innisfail

Mother of Good Counsel,

Mission Beach,

6:30pm Sat Vigil, 9am, Sun, 90 Rankin St, Innisfail

8am, Sun, 2224 Tully-Mission Beach Rd, Mission Beach, Ingham District Uniting Churches:

St John the Evangelist,

Ingham,

6pm, Sat, 4 Harold Street,

10am, Sun 16 Herbert St,

St Rita’s South Johnstone, 7am, 1st, 3rd & 5th/month, 5 Green Street, South Johnstone Christ the King,

Ingham Halifax, 8am, Sun 12 Anderssen St, Halifax Blue Haven Lodge,

7am, 2nd & 4th/month, 10

Ingham, 11am

Harbour Road, Mourilyan

(2nd & 4th Tues)

Holy Spirit, Mission Beach

SUDOKU SOLUTION NO. 328

Street, Tully 11am, Sun, Bruce Highway,

7am Sun,

SUDOKU NO. 329

10am, Sun, 6 Plumb

6pm, Sun, Unit 3, 2-4 Stephens Street, Mission Beach

Silkwood,

WET TROPIC TIMES

Tully Baptist Church,

Cardwell Baptist Church,

10am, Sun, 32 Glasgow Street, El Arish,

PHONE:

Innisfail Estate 6:30pm, Sun, Ladies Church

Church,

Our Lady of Fatima,

ANDREW GRAFFEN CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

Baptist Churches Baptist Family Centre

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

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

Parishes:

Church,

St Patrick’s, 8:30am,

9am, Sun, 83 Rankin Street,

Sunday, 18 Abbott Street, Ingham St Peter’s, 7am, Sunday,

Innisfail St John Anglican Church,

10 Scott Street, Halifax,

5pm, Sat, 2 Black Street, Tully

Canossa Chapel, 10am,

John Oliver Feetham

Sunday, St Teresa’s College / 3819 Abergowrie Rd St Teresa’s, Trebonne, 10am

Seventh Day Adventist Seventh Day Adventist

Pioneer Memorial 5pm, Sat, 45 Bruce Highway, Cardwell St John Anglican Church, 3pm, 3rd Sun of month, Motel

Innisfail,

Chapel, Kurrimine Beach

10:30am, Sat ,Bible Study,

Holy Trinity (Ingham)

11am, Sat, 114 Lawrence Road, Bamboo Creek Tully Seventh Day Adventist Church,

9am, Sunday.

37 McIlwraith Street, Ingham All Souls,

Sat 9:30am Sabbath School,

7.30am, Sun, 10 Four Mile

Sat 11am, 1 Edward St, Tully

Road, Victoria Estate

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Thursday February 8 2024

18

Mission Beach News Wet Tropic Times

Thursday, Thursday, January February25, 8, 2024

North and South Mission Beach, Silkwood, Kurrimine Beach and Wongoling

ON A MISSION School TO ENTERTAIN Mission Beach State MISSION ARTS

MISSION Arts Theatre Ensemble (MATEs) has attracted a large cast of locals aged from 10 to 80 for its next production of How Bard Can it Get? scheduled for three performances in April.

‘We’re delighted to welcome many new members, especially young people, to be part of what promises to be a highly entertaining show’, said Director Don Sanderson.

‘How Bard Can It Get? is about a small community theatre group struggling to put on Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream. By opening night, they

have no lead actor, no lighting, no costume, no makeup, no idea really.’

The script is a collaborative effort by the Director and cast. ‘There’s a lot of action and colourful characters and local references such as an actor losing transport to rehearsal due to an accident avoiding a cassowary.’

School Prep A & B Classes for 2024

‘The show will be put on over the Easter break at a Mission Beach venue with final details to be advised. Please follow us on Facebook at MATEs -Mission Arts Theatre Ensemble to find out more. We’re also still looking out for backstage crew so if you’re interested, get in touch,’ said Mr Sanderson.

Recent MATES rehearsal for AUTHORISED How Bard Can It Get? Leah Wildoset, DISTRIBUTOR Patrick Liddle,Tyita Dawson and director Don Sanderson.

Cassowary KIT ONLY Coast Sheds OR AUTHORISED DISTRIBUTOR

KIT ONLY OR COMPLETE Cassowary Coast Sheds BUILDS COMPLETE BUILDS WeONLY are LOCAL KIT OR and we put back into our LOCAL COMMUNITY! COMPLETE BUILDS

Weather conditions are BRUTAL! Cassowary Coast Weather conditions are Sheds BRUTAL! Cassowary Coast understand that.

We are LOCAL and we put back into our LOCAL COMMUNITY!

Sheds understand that.

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Mobile: 0419Mobile: 026 069 - Phone: 4068 069 8004 - Phone: 4068 8004 0419 026 26 REID ROAD, BEACH 4852 - Phone: Mobile: 0419 026QMISSION 069 8004 26 MISSION REID ROAD, BEACH4068 Q 4852

26 REID ROAD, MISSION BEACH Q 4852

TRADES & SERVICES

INSTALLING AND CLEANING

• Electrical Contractor Licence: 82279 • Arctick Licence: L045699 • RTA Number: AU45324 Michael Dean 0400 029 488

Michael Dean 0400 029 488 mickodean@hotmail.com mickodean@hotmail.com

| 19 Etty Bay Surf Lifesaving Club’s 2023 awards SPORT

Thursday, February 8, 2024

MARIA GIRGENTI LAST month, Etty Bay Surf Lifesaving Club held its awards presentation and recognised the efforts, dedication and service their EB members contributed to making it a fun and, educational 2023 season.

The club awarded Life Membership to Brigid Darveniza, who joined the club in 2006 and gained her Bronze Medallion.

Since then, Darveniza has volunteered 990 patrol and water safety hours.

In 2011, Darveniza received Etty Bay’s Lifesaver of the Year award, then gained her Bronze Medallion Trainer and Assessor Award in 2012.

Darveniza received a SLSQ 10-year Assessing Service Certificate and a 15year National Patrol Service Award.

Craig Marturia also bestowed Life Membership has long family ties with the club, which date back to when it first started.

Marturia first became involved with surf lifesaving in 2003.

In 2010, he joined Etty Bay, received Volunteer of the Year and NQB Volunteer of the Year awards in 2011 and has amassed 1,045+ patrol and water safety hours.

He received the 10-year National

Patrol Service Award, 5-year Training Service Award and 15-years National Patrol Service Award in 2022.

Junior Award winners U6 Male: Jax Stepanoff; Runner Up: Harry Kleve and William Abbott U/7 Female: Lily Worth; Runner Up: Keira Greven Male: Jack Matthews; Runner Up: Nash Di Palma U/8 Male: Noah DiPalma; Runner Up: Jake Mackereth U/9 Male: Mason Borsato Female: Sophie Molenaar; Runner Up: Ava McElhinney U/10 Male: Brandon Borsato; Runner Up: Lucas Blair Female: Aria Di Palma; Runner Up: Penny Blair U/11 Male: Ned Power; Runner Up: Cody McElhinney

Wet Tropic Times

Female: Isadora Nucifora U/13 Male: Keean Greven Female: Ariana Nucifora; Runner Up: Ella Power U/14 Female: Isabelle Peake Junior Iron Man: Keean Greven Junior Iron Maiden: Adriana Nucifora Participation awards: Max Molenaar, Nico Azzopardi, Jonah Leis, Noah Sharrock, Jacob Matthews Emma Leis, Teo Nucifora, Gabriella Nucifora and Olivia Ah Shay.

Nipper of the Year: Isadora Nucifora Iron Man (Club Championships – Fibreglass Board): Keean Greven Most Carnival Points (All Carnivals): Aria Di Palma Best and Fairest Branch Carnival: Aria Di Palma Most Improved Boy and Girl: Lucas Blair and Penny Blair Encouragement Award Boy and Girl: Cody McElhinney and Ella Power

Alana Witt and Shayne Cini with Mark Nucifora (middle), winner of Alana Witt and Shayne Cini with the All-Round Lifesaver of the Year Adrian Conroy (middle), Club award.

Person of the Year Award winner.

Alana Witt (left) and Jemimah Conroy, winner of Cadet Lifesaver with Most Potential Award.

Golf News Innisfail Golf Club WITH limited numbers last week, the grounds crew have done a fantastic job on course.

Currently, the course currently takes around 30 - 40 hours per week to mow which includes greens, tee boxes, fairways and roughs.

This does not include whipper snipping, tree trimming, removal of fallen tree limbs, refilling sand boxes and removing rubbish from on-course bins.

Please do not forget to say thank you to the grounds crew, who always put in huge efforts for the club.

Mark Nucifora and Peter Greven with Under 10 Team of the Year trophy winners.

Anyone with a spare hour or two to do some mowing or whipper snipping, please contact Jake or Andrew Rose who will point you in the right direction.

Wednesday All Sporters - January 24 Results 1st: Ian McDonald 28pts 2nd: Jake Cockle 25pts c/b 3rd: Ryan Thwaite 25pts c/b Friday Sporters competition - January 26 Results 1st: Darryl Gould 21pts 2nd: James Scullen 19pts 3rd: Ian Saunderson 17pts A solid field of 39 players braved the heat to compete in the 18-hole Stableford on Saturday, January 27.

There were two withdrawals due to heat exposure, so players, please ensure you have enough water and Powerade’s to keep you hydrated throughout the rounds.

Andrew Rose put together another great round of two under par (the first round under par this year), with an eagle on six to hold the clubhouse lead for a while.

Ian McDonald, winner of Wednesday’s All Sporter competition on January 24.

Alana Witt and Shayne Cini with Natalie Cook, Senior Lifesaver of the Year award winner.

Chris Calleja played well and just pipped Rose on a countback, with both tied on 38 points.

With rain predicted, the afternoon groups were not sure if they would finish but toughed it out anyway.

Most players struggled, but Norm Stewart put together a fine round of 37 points and Craig Alman, fresh from a break, equalled the leaders on 38 points, but

Darryl Gould, winner of Friday Sporters competition on January 26.

Team Trophy: Under 10 team: Aria Di Palma, Olivia Ah Shay, Nico Azzopardi, Lucas Blair, Penny Blair and Brandon Borsato Major awards Best Cadet Lifesaver: Sasha Darveniza Cadet Lifesaver with the Most Potential: Jemimah Conroy Under 18 All Round Lifesaver of the Year: Kari Cini Senior Lifesaver of the Year: Natalie Cook All Round Lifesaver of the Year: Mark Nucifora Official of the Year: Jesse Witt Most Patrol Hours: Jesse Witt (110) Club Person of the Year: Adrian Conroy

Craig Marturia and Brigid Darveniza, Etty Bay Surf Lifesaving Club’s newest Life Members.

Alana Witt (right) and Sasha Darveniza, Best Cadet Lifesaver award winner.

narrowly missed the win on countback.

Results 1st: Chris Calleja 38pts c/b 2nd: Andrew Rose 38pts c/b 3rd: Craig Alman 38pts NTPs 1/10 - Trent Baptiste 4/13 - Andrew Rose 7/16 John Lombardi

3/12 - Paul Tattam 6/15 - Andrew Rose (Eagle) 9/18 - Allan Gould 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

2/11 - Andrew Rose 5/14 - Joel Saunders/Addi Butorac 8/17 - E Nest

March 2 - 3 - Survivor Golf - online bookings via https://survivorgolf.com. au/calendar/

Chris Calleja, winner of the 18-hole Stableford on January 27.

Andrew Rose finished second in the 18-hole Stableford on January 27.

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SPORT

Wet Tropic Times

Bowls News

STORY AND PHOTOS BY MARIA GIRGENTI

THE fourth Peter Longford Australia Day Cup, hosted by South Johnstone Bowls Club, played out on January 28, as forty-two bowlers braved hot and humid conditions and vied for a share of the prize money on offer.

Thursday, February 8, 2024

Lawn bowlers contested the Peter Longford Australia Day Cup

Team members from Innisfail, South Johnstone, Silkwood, Tully, and Yungaburra played two games of 10 ends or until the bell (1hr:30mins time limit), using a self-selected mixed threebowl triples format.

Scoring on the day saw teams with a win collected two points plus margin, a draw for one point, and in the event of

a tie, the team who scored the greatest number of shots claimed the win. All dead ends resulted in a spot the jack.

SJBC President Shane McInerney presented the Cup to the winning team of Jeff Hammond, Kevin Villalba, Wally Kriesel, and Joanne Townsend (4 + 22).

A family affair of Cole, Anna and Anna Rowbotham from Yungaburra claimed second place with a score of 4 + 14.

The Tully trio of Joan Mercer, Darryl Stumbles, and Sean Prinsloo came in third place with a score of 4 + 2.

Each year, South Johnstone Bowls Club hosts the Peter Longford Australia Day Cup in Longford’s honour as a

SJBC President Shane McInerney (far right) congratulated winners of the Peter Longford Australia Day Cup, Kevin Villalba, Joanne Townsend, Jeff Hammond and Wally Kriesel.

respected club member.

‘Pumpkin’ Peter Longford leaves behind his legacy as a real gentleman and great bowler and for his contribution to the South Johnstone Bowls Club as a player and promoter of the game throughout the district on local radio and in print media.

Longford passed away on January 12, 2020; however, his memory lives on through his wife Margaret, daughter Leanne Bolger, grandson James, and extended family members.

Those who knew Longford will remember his larger-than-life personality, passion for bowls and love of the South Johnstone Bowls Club.

Sean Prinsloo, Darryl Stumbles and Joan Mercer from Tully Bowls Club finished in third place.

Innisfail Men’s Bowls

RAIN again cancelled Thursday’s social bowls on January 25.

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

In the Sam Rinaudo Memorial Shield played at Babinda Bowls Club on January 26, Innisfail emerged as winners of their section against South

Johnstone and Babinda, with a higher marginal score.

On January 27, Innisfail travelled to West Cairns and made it as far as the semi-finals, but went down to eventual winners, Edge Hill.

Congratulations to Innisfail Bowls Club’s Centenary celebrations committee who claimed the Cassowary Coast Regional Council Australia Day award for Community Event/Project of the Year presented at the awards evening on January 25.

Innisfail and Silkwood bowlers who played in the Peter Longford Australia Day Cup at South Johnstone Bowls Club.

The team of Cole, Emma and Anna Rowbotham finished second in the Peter Longford Australia Day Cup.

Innisfail Bowls Club members accepted the Community Event/ Project of the Year for their Centenary celebrations in 2023, at the Cassowary Coast Regional Council Australia Day Awards ceremony.

SPORT

Thursday, February 8, 2024

Shane Muriata AS the 2024 Rugby League season gets underway in this North Queensland heat, it takes me back to my time hunting alligators in the swamps of the Florida Everglades in 200-degree weather.

Anyway, enough about my time on TV; the Tully Rugby League Football Club is well underway for another run at the flag in all grades, including the evertalented juniors. Whether it was doing sprints, laps or my favourite pre-season endurance training, it set up a very long road to the championship trophy.

Tully Tiger Operational Manager Colin Wilkie, who has recently celebrated the birth of his son (hey Tex), was excited and keen to get the ball rolling for another big year for the golden gumboot town. "We are already in full swing; the kids have been turning up ready to go.

wonders ". Special shout out to Noah, Lane Frost, Mr Ryley and champion bloke Jesse for their time for a photo. (Absolute legends) As chance would have it, while I was at training, not doing any of the running, which was pretty identical to when I was actually playing, I came across the evertalented NRLW player Kimmy Hunt. She is plying her trade with the Mackay Cutters this season while training in Tully for her long-awaited return.

With the NRL season set to open with the everpopular NRL All Stars in Townsville, I was stoked to hear first-hand from Kimmy that she would indeed be playing in the annual fixture for the Indigenous Team against the proud Māori All-Stars. As a proud Torres Strait woman, this game will take on extra meaning as she gets set to showcase her heritage and footy talent for the whole league world. If you follow footy like we do religiously, you will know first-hand Kimmy's fantastic talent, and her break-out season with the Parramatta Eels took her to great heights. The All-

Wet Tropic Times

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21

Stars concept has been almost as popular as any rep games in recent seasons with the coming together of both the Māori and Australian Indigenous cultures, with its importance being felt at the community level. We are so lucky to have our Kimmy playing in the NRL AllStars match, and on behalf of the crew in the Banyan town, good luck, Kimmy Hunt.

We are already looking at under 6s, 7s, 8s, and 9s for the little ones this season. We have already been taking players in the 13s age group all the way up to the 17s."

Club President and long-time National Aerobics Champion from 1993, Anthony Emmi, has been working hard to get the club going for another tilt at the flags. "All senior league has started training, where we will announce our club signing in the next few months.

We still need a few more coaches to cover some muchneeded spaces in the juniors, so if you're interested, make sure you get down to the Tully Showgrounds every Tuesday. Already, we have some Hall of Famers down there lending a hand; a few more would do us

Future Hall of Famers, legendary Jesse and those ever-talented Muriata's.

NRLW player Kimmy Hunt training in Tully preparing to take her place in the NRL All Stars match in Townsville.

- 1st: Brian Harrison (Silkwood) 25/25; 2nd: Silkwood Clay Target Club February AA Christopher Santarossa (Silkwood) 35/36 A - 1st: Joe Zappala (Silkwood) 24/25; 2nd: Mark Stella (Silkwood) 29/31 shoot results - February 4 EVENT 1 - 25 Target Double Barrel Cash Divide AA - 1st: Duncan Sutherland (Silkwood) 25/25; Jar Smaniotto (Silkwood); Brian Harrison (Silkwood) 25/25 A - 1st: Frank Scamnello (Silkwood) 25/25; 2nd: Peter Threlfall (Silkwood); Mark Stella (Silkwood); Ned Di Salvo 24/25 B - 1st: John Stella (Silkwood) 25/25; 2nd: Barry Lansdown (Silkwood) 24/25 C - 1st: Rowena Draper (Atherton Tableland) 25/25; 2nd: Peter Neubecker (Silkwood); Kyle Heidenreich (Silkwood); Peter Neilsen (Silkwood); Peter Collins (Atherton Tableland) 24/25 Event 2 - 50 Target Point Score AA - 1st: Brian Harrison (Silkwood) 183/189; 2nd: Jar Smaniotto (Silkwood) 180/189; 3rd: Christopher Santarossa (Silkwood) 158/165

A - 1st: Ned Di Salvo (Silkwood) 146/150; 2nd: Peter Threlfall (Silkwood) 144/150; 3rd: Frank Scamnello (Silkwood) 145/153 B - 1st: Alf Strano (Silkwood) 141/150; 2nd: Barry Lansdown (Silkwood) 140/150; 3rd: Santo Greco (Silkwood) 138/150 C - 1st: Joe Collins (Atherton Tableland) 140/159; 2nd: Peter Neubecker (Silkwood) 137/159; 3rd: Rowena Draper (Atherton Tableland) 118/150 Event 3 - 25 Target Handicap Open 1st: Barry Lansdown (Silkwood) 25/25; 2nd: Brian Harrison (Silkwood) 37/38; 3rd: Christopher Santarossa (Silkwood) 36/38 Event 4 - 25 Target Continental

B - 1st: Barry Lansdown (Silkwood) 24/25; 2nd: Santo Greco (Silkwood) 24/28

C - 1st: Peter Collins (Atherton Tableland) 23/25; 2nd: Peter Neubecker (Silkwood) 23/26

Shooters who braved sweltering weather conditions to compete in the February shoot last Sunday.

Joe Collins (left) aged 96 is still going strong with a win in C-Grade - 50 Target Point Score event, whilst Barry Lansdown finished with two Santo Greco shot his way to a second and firsts and two seconds in the February shoot. third place in two events.

Jar Smaniotto kept a close eye on the targets during the monthly shoot.

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SPORT

Wet Tropic Times

Thursday, February 8, 2024

Rugby league action returned to Tully, with four pre-season trial games STORY AND PHOTOS BY MARIA GIRGENTI

LAST Saturday, fans had their first taste of rugby league action at Tully Showgrounds with Northern Pride’s Under 17s and Under 19s Men’s and Women’s teams in action against southern rivals Townsville & District Blackhawks.

The Blackhawks and Northern Pride four junior teams went head-to-head in trial games, prior to the start of the 2024 season.

In their first pre-season hit out, Northern Pride academy squads featured a stack of upcoming rugby league talent from Tully and Innisfail.

Local players included, Jordana Woods SummerRose Phair, Brydee Spry, Kayden Plumb, Nylese Meredith, Arianna Martin, Shiloh Babsek, Wasada Lui, Lakeisha Ulutui, Lisa Waireg, Kimberley Bryant, Braith Clubb, Floyd Sakail, D’Artanyan Connolly, Ben Walker, Sipi Sipi, Riley Wells, Cody Weldon, Chris Brown, Ryan Millard, Blake Morice and Kenneth Banu.

These scratch matches proved beneficial to all teams, as players looked to build on cohesion, and put their skills on display.

This season the Northern Pride’s Under 19 Mal Meninga Cup coach is Innisfail’s Bevan Walker who won Club Person of the Year Award in 2023.

New South Wales competitions.

Trial game results Townsville Blackhawks Harvey Norman Under 17 Girls 28 def Northern Pride 4 Townsville Blackhawks Harvey Norman Under 19 Women’s 36 def Northern Pride 4 Cyril Connell Cup Townsville Blackhawks Under 17 Boys 16 def Northern Pride 6 Mal Meninga Cup Northern Pride Under 19 Boys 18 def Townsville Blackhawks 8 Former Tully Tigers product, Benn Campagnolo has returned home, and he and Ryan Flegler will suit up for the Northern Pride HostPlus team in the Queensland Cup competition this season.

Campagnolo made his Queensland Cup debut for the Townsville & Districts Blackhawks and spent a season playing for South Sydney Rabbitohs in the

Kenneth Banu (with ball) met the Townsville defence in the Mal Meninga Cup trial game.

Ben Walker offloaded the ball for Northern Pride in the Cyril Connell Cup Under 17 Boys trial game against Townsville.

Blake Morice (with ball) had his first hit-out with the Northern Pride Mal Meninga Cup Under 19 Men’s team against Townsville.

A Townsville player wrapped up Northern Pride player, Brydee Spry (with ball) in the Under 17 Girls trial match.

Innisfail’s Kayden Plumb (left blue/white/orange) represented Northern Pride in the Under 17 Girls academy team helped effect a tackle in the trial match against Townsville.

Thursday, February 8, 2024

FISHING

FISHING

FISHING PHOTOS

NEWS with Tony Mossop

MONTHLY $50 TACKLE WORLD VOUCHER TO BE WON

EXPERIENCED reef fishermen are enjoying a good run of weather at the moment, with sweltering, humid conditions and calm seas continuing along our area.

Storms remain the main problem for most fishermen; however, having a good, reliable outboard and some local knowledge should allow you to stay out of harm's way.

The fishing on our main reef systems has been excellent this past week, with coral trout and redthroat emperor caught in good numbers.

Spanish mackerel continue to be caught on the reef edges as well. With the smaller tides last weekend, lots of red emperors and nannygai were caught out in the deeper water, both jigging and bait fishing; however, fishermen reported getting their fish past the sharks proved very difficult.

Last week, reasonable coral trout and some good grassi sweetlip were caught around the Islands.

Reports of Spanish mackerel catches have come through; however, sharks and big barracuda have been causing their fair share of problems.

Last week, night fishing around the Islands resulted in some great fingermark and good-sized grunter being caught. Smaller tides enable fishermen to maneuver themselves right on top of the structure they want to fish on, generally with better fish being caught.

Fishing on our headlands and rivers has been all about the mighty barramundi. With the season open and the wet weather we are experiencing, plenty of good fish have been caught.

Bait fishermen have been using live mud cod and mullet. With all the extra rain we have been getting, the mud cod are being washed out of the lagoons and drains, creating the perfect opportunity for an ambush predator.

Lure fishermen have also been catching their fair share – throwing hardbodies and plastics into drains.

Bigger fish were also caught in the deeper holes with the new pre-rigged Irukandji Sicario DTF 6" paddle tail soft plastic.

Big angry mangrove jacks are also being caught, and some quality catches are being reported. Soft plastic prawn imitations like the Clone Prawn are racking up the numbers!

This weekend's tides look suitable for a morning's fishing on the beach or in a sheltered bay. With the new moon come the big tides, and on the big tides, the fish love to forage right up close to the beach. Try to

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.

Wet Tropic Times

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NEW IRUKANDJI SICARIO DTF PRE RIGGED PLASTICS NOW IN STOCK

info@wettropictimes.com.au PO Box 1100, TULLY, 4854 70 Butler Street, TULLY get some live bait, and with some luck, you will catch some nice fish!

Always keep a safe distance from the water's edge when fishing from the beach; at this time of the year, Crocs can be anywhere.

This week's weather looks like it will be hot and humid, with calm seas, storms, and rain. Always get an up-to-date weather forecast before planning your next fishing trip, and stay safe on the water.

Tony Mossop, Tackleworld Tully

TIDE TIMES LUCINDA FEBRUARY THU 8

FRI 9

SAT 10

SUN 11

1:35 am 0.49m 8:17 am 3.74m 2:43 pm 1.12m 8:01 pm 2.94m 2:14 am 0.31m 8:55 am 3.92m 3:17 pm 1.01m 8:43 pm 3.08m 2:53 am 0.23m 9:32 am 40m 3:54 pm 0.96m 9:26 pm 3.13m 3:32 am 0.29m 10:12 am 3.93m

MON 12

TUE 13

WED 14

4:33 pm 0.98m 10:12 pm 3.08m 4:13 am 0.51m 10:51 am 3.73m 5:15 pm 1.07m 11:01 pm 2.94m 4:56 am 0.87m 11:31 am 3.39m 6:03 pm 1.21m 12:00 am 2.74m 5:46 am 1.33m 12:16 pm 2.98m 7:10 pm 1.36m

JOHNSTONE RIVER FEBRUARY

THU 8

Mark Abela with an opening day barra caught on a FUZE DOCTOR plastic.

FRI 9

SAT 10

SUN 11

2:20 am 0.50m 8:41 am 3.25m 3:25 pm 1.12m 8:26 pm 2.54m 2:59 am 0.34m 9:19 am 3.41m 4:02 pm 1.02m 9:08 pm 2.66m 3:40 am 0.27m 9:56 am 3.47m 4:40 pm 0.96m 9:51 pm 2.70m 4:21 am 0.32m 10:35 am 3.42m

MON 12

TUE 13

WED 14

HULL HEADS FEBRUARY

THU 8

FRI 9

SAT 10

Its been a great start to the season with many anglers getting out and catching barra – Derek Maynard with a chromed up river fish.

SUN 11

1:44 am 0.42m 8:27 am 3.78m 2:35 pm 1.01m 8:18 pm 2.99m 2:22 am 0.23m 9:05 am 3.96m 3:12 pm 0.89m 9:00 pm 3.12m 2:59 am 0.15m 9:44 am 4.03m 3:50 pm 0.84m 9:43 pm 3.18m 3:37 am 0.21m 10:22 am 3.96m

MON 12

TUE 13

WED 14

5:21 pm 0.97m 10:35 pm 2.68m 5:03 am 0.51m 11:13 am 3.25m 6:03 pm 1.03m 11:23 pm 2.57m 5:48 am 0.82m 11:53 am 2.99m 6:50 pm 1.13m 12:18 am 2.41m 6:40 am 1.23m 12:36 pm 2.65m 7:49 pm 1.24m

4:30 pm 0.88m 10:27 pm 3.13m 4:16 am 0.44m 11:02 am 3.74m 5:12 pm 0.99m 11:15 pm 3.00m 4:57 am 0.81m 11:42 am 3.40m 6:01 pm 1.15m 12:10 am 2.80m 5:46 am 1.27m 12:26 pm 2.98m 7:03 pm 1.32m

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SPORT

SPORT

Wet Tropic Times

Thursday, February 8, 2024

Rugby league action returned to Tully, with four pre-season trial games... Page 22

Welcome to 2024!

Then

and

NOW

QRL History Committee

GREG SHANNON AS January 2024 draws to a close, mentioning an event on December 5, 2023, is timely.

That day, former 1963 Tully captain Coach Bob Banks was guest of honour at a special function to honour his career in the game.

Bob is now the oldest living Australian player at 94, and the function highlighted that his last full season of rugby league involved leading Tully to a Foley shield victory in 1963.

Bob's career as a rugby league player was unique.

Although he came from NSW, he played most of his adult career in Queensland, making Queensland and Australian sides for over a decade from the bush.

Bob was recently a guest of honour at the WaratahMayfield club in Newcastle. The club has a very active old boys' association, of whom Bob is proudly one. The writer of this column was fortunate enough to be invited to speak on behalf of the QRL History Committee and the Tully Tigers.

His rugby league career

started in Newcastle as a teenager before he joined Sydney Easts in 1950. Wanting to see more of the world, he took on a contract as playercoach for Charters Towers in 1951.

Still only 21 years old, Bob's impact on the game in Charters Towers and North Qld was immediate. That year, he made the NQ play the touring French side.

He was then lured south to Toowoomba, which was an absolute powerhouse centre of the game at that time.

Legendary Toowoomba coach Duncan Thompson had a powerful influence on the game.

While playing in Toowoomba, Bob made his Qld debut in 1952 and was selected for Australia for the first time in 1953.

Over the next decade, Bob played for Queensland 26 times and for Australia 15 times, as well as touring NZ and the UK with Australian teams.

In 1955, he returned home to Newcastle to play for Waratah– Mayfield but was back in Qld again for the 1956 season, this time playing for Rockhampton Norths. While playing in

Rockhampton, he made the 1956 Kanagaroo tour to the UK and France.

He then decided to go west to be the Captain Coach of Cunnamulla, and from Cunnamulla, he continued to represent Qld. The lure of NQ was still evident, though, when Bob

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His final year in Qld was 1963 when he led Tully to Foley Shield victory.

Like many of his generation, Bob is incredibly humble about

his achievements in the game.

In 2008, he was named to the NQ team of the century, the Toowoomba team of the century, and one of the 100 great players of Qld. As part of the event in Newcastle, Bob was presented with a special Tully Tigers shirt highlighting the 1963 Foley Shield win.

Former Qld, and Australian player and the 1963 Tully Foley shield side Captain Bob Banks with his Tully Tigers shirt

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moved back north in 1961, this time to Cairns. From there, he made the Queensland side and was recalled to the Australian side for one test in 1962.

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