Wet Tropic Times, 2024, March 7, Newspaper Edition

PAGE

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WEATHER

Tomorrow - Saturday

Ingham

Thunderstorms and rain 23 - 30

Cardwell

Thunderstorms and rain 24 - 29

Tully

Thunderstorms and rain 24 - 29

Mission Beach

Thunderstorms and rain 25 - 29

Innisfail

Thunderstorms and rain 24 - 29

Tomorrow - Sunday

Ingham

Cloudy 23 - 31

Cardwell

Light rain 24 - 29

Tully

Thunderstorms and rain 23 - 29

Mission Beach

Light rain 24 - 29

Innisfail

Thunderstorms and rain 24 - 29

OUR TEAM

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Debra Mc Ateer ads @wettropictimes.com.au

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Reception/ Administration

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info@ wettropictimes.com.au

Submit Stories to editor@ wettropictimes.com.au

Spiritual food with Jess

Sin is Sin

IN the book of John, you will read about the woman who was caught in adultery.

These verses should cause you to think; they tell us that sin is sin (read John 8)

If someone sins outwardly and publicly, do not think you are better than them; your sin may be hidden from public view and behind closed doors, but the Lord sees all.

John 8:7 NIV

[7] When they kept on questioning him, he straightened up and said to them, "Let any one of you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her."

Interestingly, we can play down a specific sin.

You can say a lie is a lie and is easily forgiven. Still, someone accused of murder, theft or adultery, for example, is held to a higher level of accountability.

We are explicitly told not to judge. Now, I am not saying not to use discernment & wisdom. But to be wise and withhold judgment for scripture warns us why.

Matthew 7:2 NIV

[2] For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged; with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.

I encourage you to repent, be humble and forgive, Romans 3:23 NIV[23] for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.

Mango Chow

Serves: 4

Prep time: 10 minutes

Cook time: 0 minutes

1 serve per portion

Ingredients

2 large mangoes, sliced ½ cup coriander, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, finely chopped 1 red chilli, thinly sliced 1 lime, juiced Method

COMBINE the mango, coriander, garlic and chilli in a bowl.

ADD the lime juice and stir until well combined.

CHILL in the fridge until ready to serve, to allow the flavours to marinate.

Recipe courtesy of the Country Kitchens 2023 Country of Study Recipe Collection – Trinidad and Tobago

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

Office

Ingham,

Phone:

4776 0485

Website: wettropictimes.com.au

Email: info@ wettropictimes.com.au

Mail:

PO Box 414

Ingham QLD 4850

Regional Rainfall Report

Tully’s turning 100 and everyone is invited to the party

IT’S not every day a town turns 100 but in 100 days from today, February 28, 2024, the north Queensland sugar town of Tully will be spending the weekend of Friday 7 to Sunday 9 June, commemorating and celebrating its Centenary.

At an event held today in Tully’s Dorothy Jones library, locals and guests gathered to launch the event program, with a website that highlights all the planned fun and historical festivities, found at Tully100.online.

Chair of the Tully 100 Community Committee Dr Rob Magarey said that the weekend calendar was shaping up to be action packed; and while everyone is invited, the committee is looking forward to welcoming Tully residents past and present, and their families and friends to these events.

“Tully State School also celebrates its 100th Birthday this year,” Dr Magarey said. “So, we’re starting the

weekend’s commemorations there with tours, which will be a trip down memory lane for many people.

“The dinner dance on the Friday night will then bring everyone together to rekindle old friendships, share stories and create new ones,” he said.

“On the Saturday morning a parade up Butler Street will precede a civic reception to be held at the Cyclone Shelter, with re-enactment of the original auction of town blocks. And on the Sunday morning, a ‘Canecutters Smoko’ at the Tully Showgrounds will give everyone the opportunity to relax and share new memories.”

But this Centenary is about more than one weekend.

Additional Tully 100 events have been added to the 2024 calendar that include an oral history project to be launched in March, historical library displays from May; and a fashion parade, car boot sale and cemetery tours

all held before the big weekend.

And next year Tully Sugar Limited and cane industry partners will celebrate the centenary of the first crush at Tully’s sugar mill; with more events and festivities planned for the community and visitors in ‘Sugar Week’ from May 17-22, 2025, more details for this will be shared on the Tully 100 website as they come to hand.

The Tully 100 program was launched today by the Tully 100 organising committee and can be viewed at tully100.online. Tickets for the Dinner Dance can be booked here.

To be part of the Tully Centenary Street Parade business and community groups, and individuals are encouraged to email: tullystreetparade@gmail.com and register their interest by April 19, 2024.

From the moment it made its way onto our shores over 50 years ago, the HiLux quickly established itself as an Australian classic. A trusted workhorse and family mover, there’s hardly a city, farm or worksite in the country without a HiLux. And for good reason. Steadfast and rugged, the HiLux has proved itself from generation to generation. Nothing beats the unbreakable connection between you and your HiLux.

Dealer

Cardwell, Kennedy, and Murray Upper

Triumphant Return!

ASHLEE CAMERON

EARLY March 2024 marks the triumphant return of the Cardwell Axemen to the Bowen Summer 10's carnival.

The seeds of this revival were sown by Joel and Brett Anderson, sons of the esteemed former Axemen, Brett Anderson. They shared a vision to resurrect the glory of the Axemen; they reached out to myself their sister, Ashlee Cameron, daughter of yet another Axemen legend, Scott Cameron. Entrusting me with the forefront of this Endeavor, we set the wheels in motion to turn our dream into a reality.

With the passion for football pulsating through our veins and a deep understanding of how this sport can unite communities, we were driven by the overwhelming support shown.

Recognising the potential to foster

even greater fellowship, we decided to elevate the Cardwell Axemen's revival beyond a one-time event. Our discussions turned to transforming it into an annual tradition and expanding its reach to involve more carnivals, including Homebase Cardwell.

Realising our dream became possible with the invaluable support of locals and esteemed local businesses. The generous sponsorship from The Cardwell Country Club, Cardwell Ice Works, Marine Hotel, Blue Collar Tackle, and Blue-Collar Sports laid the foundation for the Axemen's resurrection. Empowered by this backing, we embarked on creating jerseys and merchandise complementary to the original Axemen attire to pay respect to the rich history and tradition of the team.

Under the leadership of player/coach Joel Anderson, captain Brett Anderson, and myself the team manager, an

impressive team of 20 men was swiftly assembled to represent Cardwell proudly.

This diverse blend of local talents and skilled players recruited from neighbouring regions embodies the spirit of unity and excellence that defines the Axemen tradition.

With our combined expertise and dedication, we stood ready to uphold the honour of our community.

Following a successful jersey launch at the Cardwell Country Club last weekend, players had the opportunity to mingle with locals and sponsors.

They honoured former Axemen players, fostering a sense of companionship and anticipation for the upcoming carnival weekend. Now, amidst final preparations, the team stands prepared to showcase their renewed spirit and dedication on the field, ready to honour the legacy of the Axemen and forge unforgettable memories in the hearts of all who witness their triumphs.

The Cardwell Axemen reach has already gathered momentum, and social media will be the place to follow this great and proud football team on Facebook. Keep an eye out for the return of the Axemen.

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.

Cassowary Coast Regional Council Elections

MAYOR

CANDIDATE PARTY/GROUP

Cassowary Coast Regional NOLAN, Mark Independent

Cassowary Coast Regional MILLWOOD, Teresa Independent

COUNCILLOR CANDIDATE PARTY/GROUP

Cassowary Coast Regional Division 1 LITTLEMORE, Chris Independent

Cassowary Coast Regional Division 1 REED, Peter John Independent

Cassowary Coast Regional Division 2 BARNES, Barry Independent

Cassowary Coast Regional Division 2 THOMAS, Marcus Independent

Cassowary Coast Regional Division 2 JESSOP, Ellen Independent

Cassowary Coast Regional Division 3 KIMBERLEY, Wayne Independent

Cassowary Coast Regional Division 3 TSCHUI, Trudy Independent

Cassowary Coast Regional Division 4 PERVAN, Nicholas Independent

Cassowary Coast Regional Division 5 BAINES, Jeffery Independent

Cassowary Coast Regional Division 6 MCLEOD, Renee Independent

Current Incumbent

Portfolio: Planning & Regional Development

Current Incumbent Councillor

in Division 2

Portfolio: Waste Management & Innovation

Current Incumbent

Division 1

Portfolio: Asset Sustainability

Current Incumbent

Division 3

Portfolio: Community and Culture

Current Incumbent

Running Uncontested

Current Incumbent

Running Uncontested

Current Incumbent

Running Uncontested

Local Girl with Local Knowledge

Why run for council you ask?

Our great community has supported our family through good times and tragic times and I'm not through giving back!

Like all my siblings, Innisfail was my place of birth, along with my mother. My Father was born and bred in Tully, and My Grandparents pioneered this now-called Great Green Way.

I grew up and schooled in this community. I started school at Flying Fish Point Primary while living at the Coconuts. I remember spending every waking hour on the beach or swimming in many freshwater swimming holes; it is so rare to find one not infested with Crocs these days.

I went through ISHS and started working at See Poy's Emporium. When I first met my husband, Percy, we left Innisfail and travelled to Tully, where we began our business. Tully Hot Bread was born in 1987, and we nurtured our business whilst raising our 3 Beautiful children.

Tully then became our home, and we were involved in helping with schools, sporting clubs, and the community as a whole—fundraising for schools from Babinda to Cardwell including Flying Fish Point and Mena Creek.

In 2014, My husband suffered a medical episode, which rendered him legally blind and unable to work further in our small business. I took over the reins solely at this point and continued to run our business successfully until we sold our business in 2022.

I have learnt that living with someone with a disability is nothing that can hold you back but brings out the inner strength in yourself. While this is not true for everyone, it shows my commitment to getting the job done at hand, and I can certainly find the inner strength to tackle what is presented before me.

I am honest, reliable, Compassionate, and creative in thinking, and I consider myself heightened with intuition. I call a Spade a Spade unless it's a Shovel and I also have a great sense of humour.

In my spare time, I love to sketch and paint and spend time with my Children and Grandchildren, who are simply the light of my eyes.

Times WET TROPIC

Local Elections Coming Soon

SARI RUSSO – BA SOCIAL WORK

THE social media posts are ramping up for different interest groups regarding the local elections.

The main issues I am hearing / reading about are from groups that would like their local council to go back to focusing on what they consider the main priorities of a local government - Roads, rates, and rubbish.

Many Australians do not believe it to be appropriate to expect local councils to act on what are considered ‘bigger issues’ such as climate change. The main reason being that local councillors are not being voted in as members of particular parties with specific areas of interest such as climate change but are generally independent candidates who are there to ensure that the infrastructure of communities are maintained.

Of particular concern to community members are local amenities they perceive as not being prioritised, whilst continuing to see increases in their rates.

Of note in Cardwell it has been reported that the money spent on Brasenose Street in front of the Cardwell Post Office, on the footpath, was a waste of money and there is still the unresolved Port Hinchinbrook Issues.

Concerns that have been reported in Mission Beach are the lack of cleaning maintenance for the waterways in residential areas that caused significant damage to homes during the most recent flood.

A lack of prioritising maintenance appears to be a concern across multiple divisions in the Cassowary Coast.

In this late stage of campaigning letting the community know about your stance on looking after local amenities should be a priority.

Hinchinbrook Shire Elections

MAYOR CANDIDATE PARTY/GROUP

Hinchinbrook Shire

Division JAYO, Ramon Independent Current Incumbent running uncontested

COUNCILLORS CANDIDATES PARTY/GROUP

Hinchinbrook Shire

Division 1 VARDANEGA, Ann Independent

Hinchinbrook Shire

Division 1 LYNCH, Patrick Independent

Hinchinbrook Shire

Division 1 CHRISTOPHER, Aaron Independent

Hinchinbrook Shire

Division 1 COCO, Rachael Independent

Hinchinbrook Shire

Division 1 SPINA, Mark Independent

Hinchinbrook Shire

Division 1 ANDERSEN, Brendon Independent

Hinchinbrook Shire

Division 1 MARBELLI, Donna Independent

Hinchinbrook Shire

Division 1 EXELBY, Jesslyn Independent

Hinchinbrook Shire

Division 1 BROWN, Mary Independent

Hinchinbrook Shire

Division 1 CARR, Andrew Independent

Hinchinbrook Shire

Division 1 MILTON, Kate Independent

Current Councillors who have chosen not to run again.

DEPUTY Mayor Andrew Peter Cripps – Portfolio: Corporate and Financial Services Advisory Portfolio

Current Incumbent

Portfolio:

Community Development Advisory Portfolio

Current Incumbent

Portfolio:

Economic Development Advisory Portfolio

Current Incumbent

Portfolio:

Bio-Security and Open Spaces Advisory Portfolio

Councillor Andrew John Lancini - Portfolio: Utility Services Advisory Portfolio

Councillor Wallis (Wally) George Skinner - Portfolio: Infrastructure Services Advisory Portfolio

New federal biosecurity funding advisory panel welcomed

INVASIVE SPECIES COUNCIL

A senate inquiry will hear evidence that changes are needed in Australia’s fire ant response - including the creation of an independent eradication authority.

The Invasive Species Council is set to give evidence to the Senate fire ants in Australia's inquiry on Monday March 4.

Key recommendations include:

1. a new independent fire ant eradication authority

2. a rapid internal funding review

3. increased funding over the next decade to achieve full eradication

4. increased transparency, stakeholder inclusion and document publication

5. a public awareness campaign to mobilise community eradication activity

6. greater investment in fire ant population suppression in Queensland

An independent fire ant program would have a greater capacity to rapidly adapt to changing circumstances in Australia’s fire ant response - including changes in resource and funding needs. The Australian Plague Locusts Commission provides a model of how a fire ant authority could work in practice.

The Senate Committee will hear evidence on Monday 4 March in Brisbane, Tuesday 5 March in Newcastle and Monday 18 March in Canberra. The committee will report in mid-2024.

Reece Pianta, Advocacy Manager, Invasive Species Council made the following comments,

‘Despite government announcements late last year, more funds and key changes are needed if Australia is to be fire ant free.’ Invasive Species Council Advocacy Manager Reece Pianta said.

‘A new independent authority should be established with a free hand to pursue eradication openly and transparently.’

‘The eradication program has done a great job so far containing fire ants - we need to unleash its full potential for fire ant eradication.’

‘Recent progress in fire ant suppression and response reassures

me we can turn the tide on fire ants in Australia, it will be a long-term effort.’

‘The cost of fire ants to Australia will run to billions of dollars per year from livestock and crop losses and health system impacts. Fire ants will cause devastation to iconic wildlife populations like echidnas, platypus, koalas and turtles.’

‘Fire ants are funded out of agriculture department budgets, but the health system and environmental impacts will far exceed agriculture impacts.’

‘The cost of fire ant failure is so great that fire ant eradication must succeed.’

Radical Reflections Exhibition Opening Night Wrap-up

Radical Reflections exhibition by Artist Sue Hollamby is now open at TYTO Regional Art Gallery!

The opening night was held on Friday 1 March 2024.

Thanks to Rotary Club of Hinchinbrook for bar service and Halifax Hotel for catering at the event.

The exhibition will now be on display until 4.00pm Thursday 28 March 2024.

“A little dash of this quirky, a little splash of that unique” by Artist Chiara Samperi is also on display in the TYTO Regional Art Gallery niche until Thursday 28 March 2024.

TYTO RV Park Seasonal Opening Delayed

The opening of the TYTO RV Park, originally set for Friday 1 March 2024, has been postponed due to inclement weather.

Council will advise the new opening date in due course via Council's Facebook page, WikiCamps and CamperMate.

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

Rates Notices Due for Payment

Rate Notices were issued on Thursday 8 February 2024, with payment due by Sunday 31 March 2024.

Pay your rates in full by the due date and go into the draw to win $2,000 to be spent locally at up to five Hinchinbrook Shire businesses of your choice.

Mulch March

Free mulch will be made available at Warrens Hill Landfill and Resource Recovery Centre for the month of March.

Staff will be available to load mulch from Monday to Thursday, at the below times:

• 10.00am to 12.00pm; and

• 1.00pm to 3.00pm.

Mulch will be available at any time, within operating hours, for locals happy to load themselves.

Please note that only vehicles with sufficient coverage for transport will be allowed to collect mulch.

For further information please contact Council’s Waste Team.

Never Bin Your Batteries

Batteries are incredibly useful, but most used batteries go to landfill, or worse, are dumped. This creates a fire and health hazard, leaks materials into the environment, and wastes finite valuable resources.

Demand for battery materials is estimated to jump 500% by 2050, yet 63% of Australians are inappropriately throwing used batteries into household rubbish or recycling bins.

Throughout March, Council, in partnership with B-cycle, Australia's official battery recycling scheme, will be doing our best to help Hinchinbrook recycle right and keep used batteries out of the bin. Remember these three simple steps to help protect the planet and your loved ones.

1. Don’t toss them – keep them out of general waste and recycling bins;

2. Tape them - tape terminals with clear sticky tape; and

3. Take them – head to bcycle.com.au and enter your postcode to find your nearest B-cycle drop-off point in Hinchinbrook.

March 2024 Mega Movie Weekend

Join us at the JL Kelly Theatre for the March 2024 Mega Movie Weekend:

• Madame Web (M)6.30pm Friday 15 March 2024;

• Combat Wombat: Back 2 Back (PG) - 10.30am Saturday 16 March 2024;

• Drive Away Dolls (MA15+) - 2.30pm Saturday 16 March 2024;

• Argylle (M) - 6.30pm Saturday 16 March 2024; and

• Force of Nature: The Dry 2 (M) - 10.30am Sunday 17 March 2024.

March Tea and Trivia

Tickets are available for purchase for our March Tea and Trivia event!

Do not miss your chance to attend an amazing event. Bring along your family and friends for a morning filled with delicious locally baked delights, endless amounts of tea and coffee, and great trivia questions to keep your mind nimble.

Date: Friday 22 March 2024

Time: 9.30am to 11.30am

Where:TYTO Conference and Events Centre

Cost: $10 per person

Bookings for this event are essential!

Tickets can be purchased from Council's Main Office.

Ticket sales close three days prior to the event.

The Alphabet of Awesome Science

The JL Kelly Theatre presents The Alphabet of Awesome Science.

A scientific race through the alphabet — where awesome words inspire awesome science.

Join professors Lexi Con and Noel Edge (the word nerd and the science freak) for a thrilling voyage through the alphabet — where sesquipedalian words inspire mind-blowing scientific surprises!

It's a tongue-twisting race from A to Z that's equal parts explosive, messy, hilarious, fascinating and gross. Brace yourself for an hour of carefully crafted alphabetical, scientifical (award-winning!) chaos — that floats, flies, squirts, sprays, ignites and erupts!

Date: Friday 5 April 2024

Time: 10.00am and 1.00pm

Where: JL Kelly Theatre

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

4776

Radical Reflections Exhibition Opening Night Wrap-up, TYTO RV Park Seasonal Opening

• A VOTE FOR ME IS A VOTE FOR:

• A STRONGER VOICE FOR ALL OF DIVISION 1

• SUPORT EXISTING AGRICULTURE INDUSTRIES AND ENSURE THEIR LONG TERM CONTRIBUTION TO OUR COMMUNITY AS MAJOR EMPLOYERS - 44 YEARS SERVING AG INDUSTRY

• GIVE EVERYDAY PEOPLE IN OUR COMMUNITY A GREATER VOICE TO COUNCIL TO LISTEN TO RATE PAYERS AND ADDRESS THEIR CONCERNS

• REVIEW THE COUNCIL’S FINANCIALS AND FIND BETTER, MORE EFFECTIVE, WAYS TO SPEND THE FUNDS COLLECTED THROUGH RATES AND KEEP RATE RISES TO A MINIMUM

• ELECT A MORE FUNCTIONAL COHERENT, RESPECTFUL AND TRANSPARENT COUNCIL

• I’VE SPENT MY WHOLE LIFE IN THIS AREA AND I’M PASSIONATE ABOUT ITS SUCCESS. I THINK IT’S TIME FOR FRESH THINKING ON THE COUNCIL TO ADDRESS THE CHALLENGES WE FACE AS A COMMUNITY

Authorized by Peter Reed,13 Brannigan Street Tully, Qld, 4854

PeterReed 4CCRC

A strong local voice for local issues

I have lived and worked in the Cassowary Coast region for 60 years.

Voting 1 for Peter Reed is a vote for:

A hard working and effective voice for residents and rate payers to Council

A councilor who will listen to the issues and concern of ratepayers and residents first and then raise and address this with the council

Take a good hard look at the council’s financials find ways to more effectively use the income from rates . I want to keep rates as low as possible too

I want to be part of a more functional, coherent and transparent council.

A person who having lived ,worked, raised a family, runs his own business, has served the sugar industry continuously for 44 years and has been actively involved in the community I want to serve the community as a councilor.

Reduce duplication and overlap within Council departments with the aim of reducing expenditure.

What skills do I bring to the role?

During my 44 years consulting in the agriculture industry

I have worked with farmers, local businesses, government departments, agricultur e associations, community organisations, conservation groups and indigenous representatives to find solutions to local issues that balance the needs of farmers, community and environment.

This experience includes:

Industry recovery post Yasi, water quality and horticulture improvement projects, five years on the Cassowary Coast Local Marine Advisory Committee,25 years active membership of Tully Lions Club.

(including time as President and Secretary)

What are the issues that residents and ratepayers from Feluga to Cardwell have raised with me:

Rural roads

Drianage maintenance to reduce effective of flooding events

Waste disposal station operating hours

Household bin collection services in all locations

Rates increases

Lack of communication and response to concerns or issued raised by the community

Boat ramp and pontoon at Hull River

The esplanade at Tully Heads

Penning Park at Tully

Dredging of 1 Mile Creek at Port Hinchinbrook to have a all tide accessible boat ramp for locals, visitors and emergency services

Bowen street drainage in Cardwell

Staffing and services at the Bob Worknock Medical Centre in Cardwell.

One Coast - Cassowary Coast

HELP SHAPE A NEW CASSOWARY COAST EVENTS STRATEGY

As a destination designed by nature and rich with unique culture and adventures, the Cassowary Coast’s future as an event location of choice is under the spotlight as a new Events Strategy is developed.

Cassowary Coast Regional Council Chief Executive Officer, Andrew Graffen said the healthy number of established events held across the region provides a good base from which to grow and attract events that will contribute to a vibrant and evolving calendar of events.

“The Strategy will support ongoing development of sustainable events including existing events that reflect the rich attributes of our destination and our lifestyle, attract visitors, and enhance our regional profile through wide exposure beyond our region,” Mr Graffen said.

“It will be guided by the character and aspirations of the community in shaping the vision and goals for the future direction of the region.”

From sports, arts, culture, food, music festivals, and business events, Council is seeking community input on a range of issues that are relevant to supporting existing events and attracting new events in the future.

Community feedback will assist Council to provide a clear framework to attract new events and facilitate and support existing events that support our region’s economy.”

COMMUNITY GRANTS NOW OPEN INCLUDING NEW STREAM FOR SPORTS AND RECREATION CLUBS

Cassowary Coast community and sporting organisations are invited to apply for up to $5,000 in funding support with Council opening a new round of grants.

Council’s newest support stream, 'The Sports Club and Active Recreation Insurance Support Program,' has been introduced to support eligible clubs with public liability insurance costs. The program is designed to accept ongoing applications of $250.00, offering responsive support throughout the year. Applicants under this program are also eligible to explore additional funding streams within the comprehensive Community Grants and Support Program.

Up to $5000 is available to successful applicants of the Community and Economy grant program stream to support both minor and major community and economic projects. The flexible structure allows for projects ranging from sporting events and physical activity classes to economic development initiatives like workshops and strategic plan development.

The Environmental Sustainability program stream has up to $5000 available to support projects that

enhance sustainability practices, biodiversity, and community engagement in environmental or conservation activities.

And the second round of this financial year’s Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF) is also offering up to $5,000 for initiatives that build local cultural capacity, cultural innovation and community pride.

COUNCIL GRANTS $40K TO ANZAC DAY AND COMMUNITY ARTS INITIATIVES

Cassowary Coast RSL Clubs and community organisations will share in almost $40,000 to support commemoration and arts initiatives following Council’s endorsement of grant recipients.

Six arts initiatives will be supported through Round 1 of the 2023-24 Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF) with $22,940 in grants. And five ANZAC Day and Battle of the Coral Sea events will be supported with $16,000 in grants.

Murray Upper State School Teacher and P&C representative, Rebecca McLean was one of six RADF recipients for Traditional Girramay Stories sharing through Artwork.

"We are so lucky to work with and learn from the First Nations people of this land,” Ms McLean said. “The Girramay people have always been so willing to share their culture with our students, and we look

forward to this opportunity to see their stories represented in Augustina's amazing artwork."

Grant recipients included:

RADF ROUND 1

Feast of the Senses ($5,000)

Tully State School P&C Assoc. ($5,000)

Innisfail Community Band Inc. ($2,935)

Tully Nursing Home ($4,300)

Murray Upper State School P&C ($4,875)

Dr Valerie Keenan - One Life Two Choices ($830)

ANZAC DAY & BATTLE OF THE CORAL SEA COMMEMORATIONS

RSL Cardwell ($2,000)

El Arish Community Sports and Recreational Assoc Inc ($2,000)

Cardwell and District Historical Society Inc. ($2,000)

RSL Tully ($5,000)

RSL Innisfail ($5,000)

Learn more about grant recipients and how to apply for Council’s current open grants round by going to cassowarycoast.qld.gov.au/fundinggrants or call 1300 763 903.

cassowarycoast.qld.gov.au

10 Tully, Euramo, Lower Tully, Feluga, and El Arish

World Day of Prayer at the Tully Anglican Church

ON Friday, March 1, approximately thirty people met in the Anglican Church in Tully for prayer and fellowship. The Tully Anglican Church’s speaker for the occasion was Ps Michael, and the leader was Diana Russell.

Prayers were made for the Palestinian Christians. The World Day of Prayer calls on the Christian community to bear with each other in love despite all

difficulties and oppression.

A group of ecumenical Christian Palestinian women asked the Christian community to respond to the passage from Ephesians 4:1-4, 6-7 (NASB1995)

“Therefore I, the prisoner of the Lord, implore you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling with which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, showing tolerance for

one another in love, being diligent to preserve the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit, just as also you were called in one hope of your calling; one God and Father of all who is over all and through all and in all. But to each one of us grace was given according to the measure of Christ’s gift.”

The ecumenical Christian Palestinian women reflected collectively on the passage from Ephesians from the context of their current suffering as

Palestinian Christian women. They hope to inspire other women worldwide to bear with one another in love during troubled times.

After their prayers and fellowship, those in attendance enjoyed a cuppa with delicious sweets and savoury items.

“It is just a lovely time to meet with Christians from different local congregations,” said attendee Katriina Hyytinen, “Blessings to all and thank you Anglican ladies for serving.”

SOLDIERS from 1st Battalion,

The Royal Australian Regiment were lead through a week of Jungle Warfare Training at Tully, Queensland. Activities commenced with basic jungle skills, developing into live fire jungle shakeouts at a platoon level, with progression to an individual and section level.

The training provides an understanding of the operating environment, so soldiers are better informed in the lead up to Mentor Training Team Alpha delivering training activities in support of PNGDF.

Australian Army officer Major Thomas Folley from 1st Battalion, The Royal Australian Regiment, prepares to conduct a live-fire activity on 14 February 2024 at Tully Training Area, Queensland.

School

IN 2024, the Tully State High School community welcomed the new Acting Principal, Helen Carne, who brings over 34 years of education experience to the role.

After Carne moved to Tully, she completed her primary education at St Clare’s School and is a proud former Tully State High School student.

Carne completed her first diploma at the Brisbane College of Advanced Education (now QUT) and achieved a Diploma of Teaching (Secondary), Bachelor of Education and Diploma of International Education.

Before becoming a teacher, Carne worked as an Occupational Therapist at the Townsville General Hospital. However, her real

Jungle Warfare Training in Tully

Australian Army soldier from 1st Battalion, The Royal Australian Regiment, prepares to conduct a live-fire activity on 14 February 2024 at Tully Training Area, Queensland.

Australian Army soldier Private Annaliese Luckman from 1st Battalion, The Royal Australian Regiment, prepares to conduct a live-fire activity on 14 February 2024 at Tully Training Area, Queensland.

Australian Army soldier Private James Button from 1st Battalion, The Royal Australian Regiment, prepares to conduct a live-fire activity on 14 February 2024 at Tully Training Area, Queensland.

Australian Army soldier Private Benjamin Pascoe from 1st Battalion, The Royal Australian Regiment, prepares to conduct a live-fire activity on 14 February 2024 at Tully Training Area, Queensland.

The Tully State High School community welcomed new Acting Principal, Helen Carne

love was working with children/ teenagers.

“I have always had a passion for education and learning. As a lifelong learner, I love working with students and young adults to support their chosen career path.”

Her teaching career started at Roma Middle School, where she taught Home Economics and Humanities to students from Years 4 - 10.

Previously, Carne held teaching roles at Bauhina Downs State School, Mount Isa State High School, Kilkivan and Herberton State Schools Prep - Year 10, Atherton State High School, Acting Principal at Mossman State High School, and currently, is the permanent Principal at Ravenshoe State School Prep - Year 12.

In 2023, Carne worked in the Department of Education’s Regional office as the Principal Advisor for School Improvement, supporting new Principals.

Carne is a certified Highly Accomplished and Lead Teacher Assessor with the Department of Education, where she works closely with the Queensland College of Teachers to assess teachers who have applied to become a certified Highly Accomplished or Lead teacher, and this work can take her all over the state.

“TSHS is an outstanding state school with a uniqueness of cultural diversity, which receives amazing support from the school community.”

“My top academic priorities at TSHS are to create calm,

engaging, rigorous learning environments, where students develop a love for learning and achieve outstanding academic results.”

“I will fully support staff to develop students as lifelong learners, who take responsibility for their education.”

“As a teacher/Principal, the most rewarding aspect is supporting teachers to create the optimum learning environment for all students.”

Carne believes a good principal should value people, students, staff, and community, have the ability to develop outstanding relationships across the whole school community, and fully understand the craft of teaching.

“During my time at TSHS, I am looking forward to forming solid connections with many industries/businesses across the community to support students with future employment opportunities.”

Australian Army soldier from 1st Battalion, The Royal Australian Regiment, prepares to conduct a live-fire activity on 14 February 2024 at Tully Training Area, Queensland.

MARIA GIRGENTI

In 2024, Tully State High School staff and students welcomed new Acting Principal, Helen Carne to the school community.

12 Innisfail, Mourilyan, Mirriwinni, and Babinda

A Quarter of a Century for Babinda Taskforce

ALEX KNOTT, BABINDA TASKFORCE COMMUNICATIONS & GRANTS OFFICER

BABINDA District Community Association celebrated 25 years of serving the Babinda district community last month, by bringing together current and former volunteers and staff as well as key partners and supporters of the organisation.

Since the association’s incorporation in January 1999 the ‘Babinda Taskforce’ team has been making a difference in the community, filling a gap by creating a central hub for the district and weaving social fabric.

“Communities that are geographically isolated [like Babinda] have got to have their own internal networks; so that internal concerns can be raised and so that there is a ‘voice’ to speak to levels of government and other relevant stakeholders,” said Paul Gregory, former Cairns Regional Council Division 1 Councillor.

Mr Gregory worked closely with the community organisation during his 12 years as local councillor (from 20002012) and said that he was “very proud to be a part of it [the association’s operations]” as the Taskforce “absolutely catered to the needs of the community,

in response to varying challenges the community faced.”

Originally forged by Arthur and Carol Stroud who, according to Paul, ‘picked it up and weaved it together’, in 2004 under the leadership of Debra Quabba, Babinda Taskforce received funding through the federal government’s Rural Transaction Centre (RTC) program.

The RTC scheme (launched in 1999), was a Commonwealth Government initiative to restore services to rural and regional Australia by filling the gaps in banking, postal, phone and fax, and more, in small towns that were no longer able to attract some or all of these services.

Babinda Taskforce however did more than become a Centrelink Agent, it became the community glue that kept the district functioning.

“In addition to offering much needed services like printing, faxing and computer access, we also responded to what was going on in the community and did our best to provide easy access

services (for example, the closure of various bank branches), the loss of the town’s main employer (the Babinda Sugar Mill in 2011) as well as several significant natural disaster events (Cyclone Larry in 2006, Cyclone Yasi in 2011 and more).

Paul Gregory recalls how during the reconstruction period after Cyclone Larry, community needs could be met very quickly because Babinda already had a communications network and framework in place, thanks to the Taskforce.

“It was not necessarily unique to Babinda but in the instance of the response to Cyclone Larry it was very special; we were ahead of the game,” he said.

Current Babinda Taskforce manager Tanya Tuttle said the Taskforce continues to be a ‘one-stop-shop’,

in recent years it has served the community by: working with a volunteer steering committee to establish the Babinda Museum, offering training programs, providing employment and digital literacy assistance, coordinating community events, delivering natural disaster preparedness and response activities, and working with partners to enhance the district's tourism potential.

“I joined the Taskforce as a volunteer back in 2017, and unfortunately, things have gotten harder for the organisation in that time, what with the increasing costs - insurance, electricity and maintenance.”

“It is a very difficult environment for a not-for-profit organisation but hopefully some of those struggles will ease and the Taskforce will be able to continue serving our community for another 25 years,” said Mrs Tuttle.

Current Babinda Taskforce Manager Tanya Tuttle, former Taskforce President Debra Quabba, former Cairns Regional Council Division 1 Councillor Paul Gregory and current Taskforce President Sandy TaylorCrane cutting the 25th birthday cake.

AUTO ELECTRICIANS

DENTISTS

CABINET MAKERS

Innisfail State College

Individual Success Community Pride

Congratulations to the Innisfail State College Class of 2023. This page shows only a small selection of our amazing students’ pathways. We know that each one of you has an exciting future ahead of you, and that what you have learnt at Innisfail State College has positioned you to sustain a nd contribute positively to our strong community.

Innisfail State College thanks and pays tribute to the tremendous work of our dedicated teachers and support staff, and to all the mums, dads, grandparents, aunties, uncles, brothers, sisters and friends of our wonderful students, without whose support, love and encouragement their ach ievements would not have been possible.

Charlie Alcock

Keiran Caltabiano

Dylan Cunningham

Coby De Brincat Riley De Brincat Distribution Linesperson Apprenticeship Marine Technician Apprenticeship Fitter & Turner Apprenticeship Electrical Apprenticeship Bachelor of Economics with Ergon Energy with Coastal Marine with Bradken Engineering with BAPS Electrics University of Queensland

Arshbir Dhother Brooke Gorlick Mahlix Grundlingh Harrison Grambower Rhiannon Harrison Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery Bachelor of Education (Primary) Bachelor of Advanced Science Bachelor of Education (Secondary) Bachelor of Paramedic Science/ James Cook University James Cook University James Cook University James Cook University Graduate Cert in Emergency & Disaster Management Central Queensland University

Caitlin Hegarty

Indy-Anna Nunan Bonnie Hyland Travis Liddle Michael Spataro Bachelor of Advanced Science Bachelor of Nursing Science Bachelor of Environmental Science Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) Bachelor of Laws James Cook University James Cook University Central Queensland University Queensland University of Technology James Cook University (Deferred)

Jordann Lyons

Mercedes Micale

Luke Magnanini Olivia Mizzi Adelle Page Bachelor of Veterinary Science (Honours) Bachelor of Business/ Bachelor of Built Environment (Honours) Bachelor of Nursing Science Bachelor of Nursing/ James Cook University Bachelor of Laws (Honours) (Construction Management & Quality Surveying) James Cook University Bachelor of Midwifery Queensland University of Technology Queensland University of Technology Deakin University

Dylan Ryder Brooke Santarossa

Eden Whitehead Tess Wilson Sahra Zanoletti Bachelor of Information Technology Bachelor of Psychological Science Bachelor of Physiotherapy (Honours) Bachelor of Fine Arts (Drama) Bachelor of Psychological Science

James Cook University Central Queensland University Central Queensland University Queensland University of Technology James Cook University

POSITIONS VACANT

Qld Steel & Equipment is seeking Customer Service/Spare Parts Interpreters to join our team.

The ideal candidates will be passionate about customer service, learning and gaining experience in our products to meet our customers’ needs.

Preferred qualities:

▀ Self-motivated and Punctual

▀ Hard working

▀ Enthusiastic and willing to learn Full on the job training is provided.

To apply – email resume to sales@qldsteel.net.au or into the store at 8 Anderson Street, Tully. Enquiries relating to the position can made to Susan, PH: 4068 0061

FEBRUARY 6th & 20th

MARCH 5th and 19th

APRIL 2nd, 16th & 30th

MAY 14th & 28th JUNE 11th & 25th

Club Members & their families. YOUR HELP IS MUCH APPRECIATED

We are looking for a full-time dental assistant.

The successful applicant will possess the following:

• Excellent communication skills

• Be well organised and show initiative

• Work well in a team environment and individually

• Willingness to learn new skills

• Ability to provide high quality service and patient care

Comprehensive on-the-job training will be provided.

Please deliver in person your handwritten cover letter to the address below.

32 Glady Street, Innisfail QLD 4860 Ph: 4061 1134

We are

Please ring 07 40681268

your

and details if you are interested.

News

DR BIANKA VIDONJA BALANZATEGUI

THE exhibition ‘Radical Reflections’ showcases the artwork of artist Sue Hollamby, which opened at the Tyto

Regional Gallery on Friday, March 1, and is an exuberant display of Sue herself.

The entire unpartitioned floor space of the gallery allows her large, striking artworks to be displayed to their best advantage.

Sue is a well-known North Queensland artist whose work predominantly features animals, portraits and landscapes. However, as the viewer will note, works depicting what Sue calls her “unhinged side”, which she is just discovering, have crept into this exhibition!

When Sue contemplates, “What is an artist? What makes an artist? Why be an artist?” she knows that she simply

does not exist if not for art. When she was ten years old, she painted a green tree frog. She recalls how people loved it; her friends loved it. She recalls feeling 10 feet tall. She knew from that moment that she was an artist.

Occasionally skipping school as a teenager, she would immerse herself in Melbourne galleries, dreaming of creations she would paint and her own exhibitions. That dream has become a reality many times over now with not only well-received exhibitions but awards, one of the most recent being the Overall Winner of the Seventh Hinchinbrook Birdlife Art Awards with her painting ‘Sweeter than Sugar’.

Sue has been described as “An exceptionally technically accomplished artist, … featured in numerous international galleries, won many first prize awards and has been accepted

for a wide assortment of prestigious displays including the Archibald and Percival Portrait Prize.” Her paintings are to be seen on the walls of not only local establishments but also national and international ones. She is also generous in donating works for charitable purposes.

Radical Reflections, in its deviation from her usual subjects, wildlife and its environs, is a collection of work which turns her “typical mainstream art into a collection of Imaginative off the wall pieces.”

“This is an exciting time in my career,” Sue says, “as I’m allowing the true Sue to shine through these pieces.”

‘Radical Reflections’ will be displayed until 4.00 pm Thursday, March 28 2024.

The Rotary Club of Hinchinbrook outstanding achievements

School

THE Rotary Club of Hinchinbrook had Charlotte Whittington address the club in January after she attended the 2023 National Youth Science Forum in Brisbane which the club sponsored. You could tell from her speech that Charlotte had a really great experience at the Forum!

Also, congratulations must go to club member Felix Reitano for being recognised as the 2024 Hinchinbrook Citizen of the Year. Felix was recognised for all the work he does around the district (including work with Rotary).

Abergowrie State School prioritise play

CHILDREN need to attend schools that ensure they have the freedom and time to play.

Playtime is fun at Abergowrie State School!

Charlotte Whittington.

Felix Reitano and Hinchinbrook Member of Parliament Nick Dametto.

18

Mission Beach News

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

STORY AND PHOTO BY MARIA GIRGENTI

LAST week, community members had an opportunity to Meet the Mayoral and Division 3 Candidates running in the Cassowary Coast Regional Council Local Government elections at Mission Beach Resort and the Kurrimine

Cardwell Country Club, with a Meet the Mayoral Candidates and Division 2 Candidates at Hotel Tully on Wednesday, March 13.

Pre-polling commenced this week:

Teresa Millwood and Mark Nolan are the current Mayoral candidates, and the Division 3 candidates are Wayne Kimberley and Trudy Tschui.

The Mission Beach Community Association and Kurrimine Beach Progress, Recreation and Sporting Association hosted these

The candidates standing for the upcoming Local Government election were given ten and five minutes, respectively, to introduce themselves and their passion for Mission Beach and the Cassowary Coast.

Over 120 residents attended the Mission Beach event, and the issues raised during question time included a lack of maintenance services and increasing rates.

At Kurrimine Beach, the community topics raised included the Kurrimine Beach town entry signage, lack of opening hours at Bell’s Creek transfer station and lack of town-upkeep services such as tree cutting, mowing, roadworks and drainage, etc.

On Tuesday, the Cardwell Chamber of Commerce also hosted a Mayoral and Division 1 Meet the Candidates at

As no candidates contest Divisions 4, 5 and 6, incumbent Councillors Nicholas Pervan, Jeff Baines and Renee McLeod are elected unopposed in their respective Divisions.

Cardwell Library, Shop B/33 Butler Street, Tully and Innisfail Tigers Soccer Club, Goondi, which runs from March 4 - 15 between 9.00 am - 5.00 pm, excluding weekends and on Friday, March 15 between 9.00 am - 6.00 pm.

Local Government elections are on Saturday, March 16, with polling booth locations operating from 8.00 am to 6.00 pm, at the following locations Cardwell, Kennedy, Lower Tully, Murray River Upper, Mission Beach, El Arish, Mena Creek, Silkwood, South Johnstone, Innisfail East, Mourilyan State Schools, along with Tully QCWA, Kurrimine

Beach Community Hall, East Palmerston and Nerada Progress Association Hall, QCWA Hall Flying Fish Point, Garradunga Community Hall, Innisfail Tigers Soccer Club, Goondi Hill, and the Innisfail Disaster Management Public Education and Training Centre, Flying Fish Point Road.

Worker shortage threatens season success

OWEN MENKENS, CANEGROWERS CHAIRMAN

IT’S hard to believe we’re almost into March. It seems like only yesterday we finished the 2023 sugarcane harvest, yet here we are, just 13 weeks out from the 2024 crush.

While officially a quiet period in the industry, plenty of work is still underway.

Maintenance is the primary activity, with machinery being stripped down and tuned up in farm sheds and sugar mills across the industry.

Meanwhile, out in the paddocks, the cane is looking excellent. In fact, if the sunny, humid conditions continue, we may be looking at a bumper crop.

Add to that the high world sugar price, and there is reason to be optimistic about the year ahead.

However, as is often the case, it’s not all good news. As the clock rapidly winds down to harvest, many districts are again experiencing workforce shortages.

Truck drivers, haul-out drivers, harvester drivers, farmhands, and even mill workers are all in short supply.

Some districts are more severely affected than others, with the problem ranging from a minor inconvenience in some regions to a severe risk to the season in others.

It’s a real problem for the sugarcane industry and agriculture more generally, but it’s also an opportunity.

Australia has just recorded its highest unemployment rate in two years. Still, in sugarcane regions, we’re crying out for workers, both skilled and unskilled.

Harvester and haul-out drivers require no specific

qualifications. If you can drive a car with an open licence, you can learn to drive a haul-out or harvester.

If you’re handy and like to work outdoors, a farm hand might be the perfect job for you—no qualifications required.

Truck drivers require an MR licence, but there is a wealth of training courses out there, and with qualified drivers in such short supply, the rates of pay are usually attractive.

In short, if you are unemployed and from a canegrowing region, or you would like to travel to one, there is no reason you shouldn’t be able to take on a role in the sugarcane industry.

I would encourage anyone looking for employment, or who knows someone who needs a job, to consider a career in sugarcane this season.

Endangered mahogany glider cam: Recovery team’s new work to save species

TERRAIN

MAHOGANY gliders have been captured on camera at three sites between Tully and Townsville as recovery team members start a new phase in their work to save this endangered species.

The elusive little gliders have been spotted in bushland on the Cardwell Range and further south at Bambaroo as part of a five-year monitoring program to learn more about mahogany glider populations and how many remain in the wild.

Terrain NRM’s Jacqui Diggins said 60 cameras were attached to trees for a five-week period by teams from Girringun Aboriginal Corporation, the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service, James Cook University, NQ Dry Tropics NRM and Terrain NRM.

“These cameras take photos every three seconds. We set up 20 cameras in a quadrant at three different locations where mahogany gliders have been recorded

during research over the last 15 to 20 years.

“The aim is to do this for five years at the same locations, with the same methods and at the same time of year so we can detect trends in the glider population.”

Mahogany gliders are only known to be between Tully and Ollera Creek, north of Townsville. The last population estimate for this endangered species was based on survey data collected from 1994 to 1996. It was estimated that between 1500 and 2000 mahogany gliders remained. Then their habitat was battered by a severe tropical cyclone in 2011.

Mrs Diggins said cameras had been used over the past two years, along with catch and release trapping to take tiny tissue samples, in a bid to better understand the boundaries of mahogany glider habitat, populations and genetic health. The work was part of a Terrain NRM project funded by the Australian Government, and was also James Cook University research led by PhD

student Eryn Chang and Professor Conrad Hoskins.

The results have laid the foundations for the current population monitoring program.

“Looking for populations of mahogany gliders within the known distribution areas, and also beyond them, was the first step. Now we have selected some key populations to monitor through time,’’ Mrs Diggins said.

“We’ve chosen three locations with the highest recordings of mahogany gliders. We hope to have more sites in the future. We’ll need five consecutive years of records to begin to know population trends, which can inform us for long-term management of this endangered species.

“We’re also hoping this research can become a citizen science project in years to come.”

Terrain NRM’s ‘Biodiversity Bright Spots - Building Resilience in Wet Tropics Woodlands’ project was funded by the Australian Government through its National Landcare Program. The project also included working with landholders and conservationists on native trees plantings to bridge gaps in glider habitat and working with Girringun Aboriginal Rangers and the Queensland Department of Resources on controlled burns in pockets of remaining woodland to stop rainforest from thickening and preventing gliders from moving between trees.

Spotted during population surveys: The endangered mahogany glider. PHOTO CREDIT: Kieran Palmer

Monitoring work: Kieran Palmer with a mahogany glider at Porter's Ck near Ingham.

@furrygliders

CEC ANDERSON - PRESIDENT ICSA INC

TIGERS Soccer club benefited this week with a $400 grant from the Innisfail Combined Sporting Association for locally purchased training equipment to kick off the 2024 season.

President of the ICSA Inc, Mr Cec Anderson said that it is pleasing to see a very good attendance at the recent Tigers Annual General Meeting held at the pavilion on the Herb Collins Oval.

Mr Anderson said that with the recent success of the Matildas, an influx of girls to the sport of Soccer might be on the cards.

The ICSA is pleased to be able to be able to assist Tigers and look forward to the Club having a successful 2024 season.

Innisfail Tiger’s Soccer Club receive grant Bowls News

Tully Bowls

UNFORTUNATELY, Tully Bowls have no results to share as their newly repaired green was once again destroyed by the deluge of rain that Tully received over February 23 & 24.

Sadly, the Tully bowls green has now been damaged twice over the last few months.

30 members attended a special meeting held on February 25 to discuss the issue. Shane Knuth attended the meeting as a guest and outlined where the club may apply to receive help.

A committee meeting was then held on March 3 and it was decided that the club would keep running.

The club approached South Johnston Bowls Club and they have agreed for Tully to use their Green as Tully’s home green and our Easter Saturday triples will be held at South Johnston.

Sunday February 25 a special afternoon tea was held with 90th birthday cake for Lino Ceccato and our president Joan Mercer presented him with special badge.

Innisfail Men’s Bowls

LAST Thursday, sixteen bowlers braved the over-cast conditions for an afternoon of social bowls.

The winning team was Alf Strano, Wayne O’Neill, George Edgerton and Dennis Ryan.

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

Nomination forms are on the notice board for all club

competitions.

This Sunday, March 10, Innisfail Bowls Club is having an open morning of two bowls Triples starting at 9.00 am.

The format will be one game of 18 ends, with a cost of $15.00 for green fees which includes smoko and prize money for the winners.

Please put your name on the notice board if you wish to participate.

Golf News

Innisfail Golf Club

OVER the past fortnight it certainly has been wet, with approximately 217mms of rain in 72 hours recorded on the BOM app.

On February 25, a working bee took place to prepare the course for last weekend’s Survivor Golf Series.

Members focused on whipper snipping around tree bases, walkways, bunkers, tee beds and used motorised carts for transport, due to the course being too wet for heavier vehicles.

Noone could catch Geoff Johnston in Wednesday’s All Sporters competition on February 21 after an impressive 28 points at lunchtime.

Results

1st: Geoff Johnston 28pts

2nd: Jake Cockle 26pts

3rd: Caine Cockle Jnr 25pts c/b

NTP - Rob Mills

Jake Cockle put together a solid three under par round in Friday’s Sporters competition on February 23 and finished with 22 points.

Results

1st: Jake Cockle 22pts

2nd: Rob Mills 20pts

3rd: Darren Ritchie 19pts c/b

NTP - Norm Stewart

On February 24, twelve mad hatters started the 18hole Stroke round in wet conditions.

After six holes, four players called it quits, whilst the rest tried to battle through the rain, but finished on the 14th and 15th holes with the competition subsequently abandoned due to inclement weather.

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

Geoff Johnston, winner of Wednesday All Sporters competition on February 21.

Cockle,

of Friday’s Sporters on February 23 and finished second in Wednesday’s All Sporters on February 21.

Innisfail Tigers Soccer Club executive and junior players. Cec Anderson president of ICSA. (centre)

Jake

winner

Caine Cockle, finished third in Wednesday’s All Sporters on February 21.

Rob Mills, finished second in Friday’s Sporters competition on February 23.

Innisfail United Football Club teams kicked off their 2024 campaign

MARIA GIRGENTI

LAST Saturday, the Innisfail United Football Club teams kicked off their FQPL Far North & campaign, against Mareeba Bulls in Round 1 of the FQPL Far North and Gulf competition.

In February, Innisfail United Premier Men’s team faced the Marlin Coast Rangers in the Kappa Queensland Cup at Pennell Field, Trinity Beach and went down 2 - 0 in the first knockout round.

Football Queensland Premier League - Far North and Gulf results:

March 2 - Borzi Park, Mareeba

Innisfail United Premier Men’s vs Mareeba Bulls

Full time: 2 - 1 loss to Mareeba

Goal:

Patrick Pat

Innisfail United Premier Women’s vs Mareeba Bulls

Full time: 9 - 1 loss to Mareeba

Goal:

Mia Di Carlo

Innisfail United Under 23 vs Mareeba Bulls

Full time: 4 - 0 win to Innisfail

Innisfail United Under 18s vs Mareeba Bulls

Full time: 3 - 0 win to Innisfail

Goals:

John Cunningham 2

Aidan Van Bael 1

Far North Community Juniors QPL

Innisfail United Under 13 vs Mareeba

Full time: 7 - 1 win to Innisfail

Goals:

Unknown player 1

Harrison Searle 2

Jack Christopher 2

Keean Greven 1

Sachin Carter 1

South Johnstone Bowls Club Ladies’ season opening day

MARIA GIRGENTI

ON February 27, a full green of 48 lady bowlers from across the TFNQ region participated in South Johnstone Bowls Club’s Ladies’ season opening day.

Players from South Johnstone, Innisfail, Silkwood, Tully, Marlin Coast, Edge Hill, Brothers Edmonton, and Yungaburra braved humid conditions and played three bowl triples with two games of 12 ends.

After the second game, ladies enjoyed a scrumptious afternoon tea, as well as the drawn of the lucky door, raffle and money cards.

Bev Harrop from Tully won the spider, Innisfail’s Jan Dunn (Lead), Tully’s Pauline Edwards (Third) and Edmonton’s Sue Rowe (Skip) won the touchers, whilst Lee-ann Mayell, won

the lucky door.

South Johnstone Ladies President Anna Rowbotham presented prizes to the winning trio of Denise Charman (skip), Helen Paterson (third) and Vera Rowe (lead), with a score of two wins +24.

Runners up were Dareyle Hester (Skip), Dell Steve (third) from Innisfail and Maureen Girardi from Edmonton (lead), with a score of two wins +18.

South Johnstone Ladies donated a random card draw, with the Lead won by Mirella Berryman (Silkwood), Third by Lee-ann Mayell (Silkwood) and Skip, Anna Rowbotham (South Johnstone).

The lucky raffle winners included Ann Rule (Innisfail) who took home the embroidered cassowary towel by Di Deegan, Glennis Buttigieg (Edmonton)

Runners up: Maureen Girardi, Dell Steve and Dareyle Hester with South Johnstone Ladies President, Anna Rowbotham. Photo: Robyn Williams.

won $20 donated by South Johnstone Ladies, whilst a bottle of wine donated by South Johnstone Club was won by Mary Santangelo, who kindly re-donated it

Random card draw winners: Mirella Berryman, Lee-ann Mayell and Anna Rowbotham.

back to the club which was redrawn and won by Margaret Mitchell (Yungaburra).

The winning team of Vera Rowe, Helen Paterson and Denise Charman. Photo: Robyn Williams.

Ladies season opening day on February 27.

Lady bowlers from across the TFNQ region took to the green at South Johnstone Bowls Club’s

Last Saturday, Innisfail United Football Club’s Under 18 team had a dream start to the 2024 season with a 3 - 0 over Mareeba Bulls in Mareeba.

The Tully Tigers' and Herbert River Crushers went headto-head in the annual Martha Wilkie Memorial clash

STORY AND PHOTOS BY MARIA GIRGENTI

LAST Saturday, the Tully Tigers Reserve and A-Grade teams kicked off their 2024 campaign in the annual Martha Wilkie Memorial pre-season rugby league clash against the Herbert River Crushers at Tully Showgrounds.

This annual event, which has been running since 2014, holds special significance to both teams and supporters as it honours the memory and legacy of Martha Wilkie, with the game alternating between the Tully and Ingham clubs.

Last year, the match occurred at Artie

Tully’s Xzavier Carlaw (with ball) set his sights firmly on the tryline in the Reserve grade trial match against Herbert River.

Gofton Oval, Ingham, where Herbert River claimed a comprehensive 36 - 10 victory over the Tully Tigers A-Grade side.

In this year's A-Grade trial game, Herbert River again prevailed over the Tigers with a 22 - 8 win at full-time.

Tully's try scorers: Morgan Black, Phil Nona

Herbert River's try scorers included Matthew Spina and Shamish O'Quinn.

Goals: Dylan Gaggiano 3.

A special mention goes to Tully's Louis Carlaw, who played alongside

his son Xzavier in the Reserve Grade game, a proud moment for the family and the club.

Tully's Reserve Grade team secured a 26 - 14 win over Herbert River with a double to Tully's Emmanuel Mukindi.

Tully's try scorers: Viliami Lelenoa, Emmanuel Mukindi 2, Xzavier Carlaw and Martin Van der Walt. Goals: Luke Fitzgerald 3.

Herbert River's try scorers: Ethan Finlay, Jerramaine Nean and Matthew Chiesa. Goals: Ethan Finlay 1.

After the match, Tully's own rugby league talent, Kimberley Hunt, presented

In the Reserve grade game, Tully’s Louis Carlaw (with ball) took to the field with his son Xzavier for the first time.

the Martha Wilkie Player of the Match trophies to Charlie Abraham from Tully and Will Clapham from Herbert River.

In the hearts of passionate rugby league fans, Martha Wilkie's name represents dedication, passion, and community spirit and her influence resonated during this special pre-season match between the two sides.

The FNQRL season officially kicks off on March 16 - 17, and in Round 1, the Tully Tigers face off against reigning premiers Cairns Brothers on Sunday afternoon.

“Start now....don’t put

until tomorrow. You too

need

same time.”

A Herbert River player (with ball) ran into a three-man Tully Tigers tackle in the A-Grade clash.

Colin Wilkie (second from right) played in the annual Martha Wilkie Memorial game held in honour of his mother, who passed away in 2013.

Kimberley Hunt presented the Martha Wilkie Memorial Man of the Match trophies to Will Clapham (Herbert River) and Charlie Abraham (Tully).

Tully Tigers and Herbert River Crushers players after the A-Grade match.

WEATHER conditions allowed experienced fisherman to venture out to our main reef systems last week, with tides suiting the deeper water fisherman chasing nannies and red emperor.

Good catches of both species were reported on fresh baits. Jigging soft plastics, such as the squidgy reef wriggler, has also been catching good quality fish; when combined with a correctly weighted jig head, soft plastics out in deep can be a great option.

Finding any run on the reef in the shallower water was difficult; most trout were caught on or around the tide change, and pushing out a little deeper once the run eased was vital to catching more fish.

Spearfisherman reported good numbers of trout being speared, and excellent visibility was experienced over the weekend, even with all the rain we have had lately.

Back around the islands, big Queenfish were seen chasing bait fish. This time of the year, big Queenfish come right in close to the mainland chasing, I suspect, small whitebait. Throwing small metal slugs is an excellent way to catch these great fighting fish.

With the smaller tides, Finger-mark fishermen were out in force; Squid was few and far between. Nevertheless, some nice fish were caught. With all the extra freshwater in our rivers, some Fishermen prefer to fish out around the headlands, both live baiting and throwing lures. Slow-rolling the 7-inch pre-rigged sicario has been a great option, catching some big barras.

Further up the rivers, it's nearly all been drains producing most of the fish, especially if there is also a colour change in the water. Soft plastics rigged with a weed-less hook are perfect for drain fishing. The hook sits down in the plastic, making it nearly impossible to get caught in hidden timber or grass.

This weekend's tides fall on the new moon. These big tides will hold back the freshwater, giving fishermen the opportunity for a morning fish in the open bays and river mouths. River fishermen will not be happy with the forecast of more rain. Our already saturated rivers do not need to cope with more water.

A good wet season can sometimes be challenging to work with, but in the long run, once it settles down, the year ahead should see some great fishing.

FISHING PHOTOS

MONTHLY $50 TACKLE WORLD VOUCHER TO BE WON

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Good Luck

Tony Mossop

Tackleworld

LUCINDA MARCH

SPORT

The

Tully

Tigers’ and Herbert River Crushers went headto-head in the annual Martha Wilkie Memorial clash...

Page 22

Rugby league action lit up Babinda again, with two exhibition games

STORY AND PHOTOS BY MARIA GIRGENTI

ON Saturday, February 24, a huge crowd of supporters converged on Bill Wakeham Park, Babinda as the Babinda Colts All Stars Reserve-Grade and Invitational A-Grade rugby league teams went head-to-head against Atherton Roosters in the Battle for Bartle Frere.

The Babinda Colts senior teams featured former and current rugby league talent from Babinda, Southern Suburbs and Innisfail.

Babinda Colts Invitational A-Grade team: Ashton Galea, Shane Thomas, Shaun Henrich, Jesse Collins, Liam Day, Gene Kubula, Callum Galea, Paul Destro, Patrick Gallen, Chris Zanoletti, Robert Haren, Jarred Tatipata, Chris Galea, Mikey Alley, BJ Ambrum, Dale Kingwell, Aiden Day, Leonard Snowball, Jahmal Deen and Tyrece Chambers.

Babinda Colts All Stars Reserve-Grade team: Damien Galea, Darren Massey, Joshua Ryan, Ethan Grambower, Liam Henrich, Terry Massey, Brayden Huey, Ryan Nugent, Mitchell Forrest, Jesse

Di Maggio, Cameron Wilkins, Geoffrey Snowball, Todd Ridolfi, Matt Paron, Connor Wilkins, Wesley Lloyd, Peter O’Dwyer, Matthew Cheetham, Damien Keily, Michael Skeene, Bram Toohey and Henry Snowball.

Trial game results

A-Grade - Babinda Colts Invitational 16 def Atherton Roosters 6

Reserve Grade - Atherton Roosters 30 def Babinda Colts All Stars 14

Babinda Colts which formed in 1932 won the Wilson Cup in 1933 and 1934 and became the first club to secure the Foley Shield in 1948 when they defeated Ayr 7 - 2.

Babinda played in the Cairns District Rugby League, as well as in a former four-team junior competition based around Innisfail against Innisfail Brothers Leprechauns, Tully Tigers and Innisfail Cowboys.

In 2018, Babinda Colts celebrated the town’s 100th anniversary of rugby league which started in 1918 when two

teams formed to participate in a threeteam competition against Mirriwinni which expanded south in 1920s and 1930s.

Action in the Reserve-Grade rugby league exhibition match between Babinda Colts All Stars and Atherton Roosters at Babinda on February 24.

The Babinda Colts All Stars and Atherton Roosters went head-to-head in the Reserve- Grade clash.

The Babinda Colts All Stars and Atherton Roosters Reserve-Grade rugby league teams braved wet conditions in the Battle for Bartle Frere.

The Babinda Colts Invitational A-Grade team claimed victory over the Atherton Roosters.

The Babinda Colts All Stars Reserve-Grade team. Photo: Southern Suburbs Rugby League Club.

The Babinda Colts Invitational A-Grade team after their win against Atherton. Photo: Southern Suburbs Rugby League Club.