2019 April 4 Community by Wet Tropic Times

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GOOD COUNSEL PRIMARY SCHOOL GO GREEN & RAISE OVER $1,000 PAGE 15 Matt Abbott, Louis Sinton, Takuya Oka, Tate Connolly, June Hyeok Son and Josephine Borsato at the Australian Bananas marquee sold merchandise and served cold banana smoothies.

Crowds flock to Market Day Extravaganza at 17th annual Feast of Senses

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COMMUNITY NEWS CCIN Editor’s Column

AS INDIVIDUALS HOW CAN WE LIVE A LIFE THAT IS VIEWED FAVOURABLY? This would be a question that a lot of people ask of themselves, particularly when trying to make sure that the life we live is one that people in our community respect. The main way to do this is to ensure that we work hard at the things we are good at and never take credit for things that we did not start, that we didn’t have the vision for, and we were not the person

Sari Hyytinen

Socks

committed to making sure the vision came to fruition. I am always proud of people who have a goal and work hard to make sure that they successfully meet their goal. The difficulty that it often imposes is ensuring that we are able to keep ourselves accountable. It is good to see the amazing things other people do and be proud of them, but perhaps instead of trying to accomplish the same things as other people we should ensure that we create a vision for our own lives.

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Hannibal Barca

IS it time for Australians to change their attitude toward voting? It is exhausting to constantly be browbeaten by the media. Our Australian values and beliefs that we were once so proud of as a nation are constantly being usurped, questioned and eroded. Take for example the attitude with which we approach voting and the compulsory preferential electoral system and how it can work against some of its constituents. In the current system, for a person to cast a valid vote, all the boxes must be numbered. In a broad sense preferential voting seems

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to give a more accurate depiction of which political candidate should represent the electorate. However, as an individual voter, if the votes fall the wrong way your preferences could go to a political candidate or party whose policies or values you vehemently oppose. So, what would be a fair and equitable solution for the average voter? The predominant way elections are run across the world is “First Past the Post:” in layman's terms, whomever has the most votes wins. This system works when the field of candidates is two or three, but when you are looking at a “Melbourne Cup” field of candidates, the electorate could be in a position whereby a candidate could win a seat with less than twenty per-

Page 2 Cassowary Coast Independent News, Thursday, April 4, 2019

cent of the vote. Remembering that the community is looking for someone with majority support to represent them in government and not the lowering of the standards of winning a seat in parliament to the same standards as that of a reality TV show. This process certainly doesn't seem fair. A fairer system is the ‘optional’ preferential system, where voters get to say who they do and don't vote for. This system allows the voter to limit his or her preferences to the political candidates and parties of their choosing and eliminate their votes going to parties that they oppose. Many people think that preferences are somehow owned and distributed by parties to other parties. The preference deals we see between parties, (such as Labor and Greens) are essentially agreements on how parties prefer you to vote but are actually limited to those “How To Vote” leaflets that you

To advertise your function please phone 4068 0088.

Statistics 2019 - March - April

Northern Correspondent Maria Girgenti - magirgenti45@hotmail.com.au - 0419 631 226

Political Columnist

Markets 20 - Mission Beach Lioness Club Cent Sale August 11 - Kurrimine Beach Markets 31 - Tully Horticultural and Garden Club Flower Show September 7 - Silkwood High Tea Suicide Prevention 7 - St Clare’s School Fete 8 - Kurrimine Beach Markets October 13 - Kurrimine Beach Markets 26 - Saint Gerard

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Director / Journalist Sari Hyytinen

Gumboots, steel caps and soft toes. Rain jackets Hi-Vis,trousers and shorts Umbrellas TULLY, 17 Butler St; IGGsToo, Banyan Plaza; CARDWELL 83 Victoria Street. PH: 4068 1295

April 6 - Silkwood QCWA High Tea (Silkwood Bowls Club) 10 - Red Shield Appeal Lunch (Innisfail RSL) 20 - Easter Saturday Cardwell Jetty Markets May 5 - Feast of the 3 Saints Silkwood 15 - Cassowary Coast Line Dancers Biggest Morning Tea. 23 - Mission Beach Lioness Club Biggest Morning Tea June 1 - Tully Tennis Hosts Banana Cup 29 - Tully Catholic Ball July 14 - Kurrimine Beach

T 5

9.5mm

W 6

0.1mm

T 7

8.0mm

0.2mm

56.0mm

34.0mm 1.5mm

6.0mm

28.5mm 23.0mm 17.5mm 37.5mm 22.0mm

10.0mm 46.0mm 5.5mm

17.5mm 39.5mm 50.0mm -

20.0mm 8.0mm

162.0mm 65.0mm

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16 -

(March 501.3mm) - April Days: 3 Mean: 78.3mm/day Year to Date: 1925.3mm

get burdened with as you walk through the gauntlet of party volunteers on the way to the ballot box. The truth of it is that YOUR preferences cast on YOUR ballot paper go only to the candidate or party that YOU vote for, and your preferences pass according to your own choice. Lastly the greatest problem in the electorate is the amount of blissful ignorance and political disengagement you see from voters. We are all guilty at some level of sitting back and rolling our eyes in disdain at what seems like a badly written soap opera playing out in continuous melodrama, as the Australian political landscape lurches forward from one scandal to another. All the while we are not seeing the greater picture of damaging policies that are skirting around the fringes... So what does this all mean? Unfortunately electoral system reform rarely happens and when it does

it is even less likely to make the voting system fairer. The only thing we can do as voters is to become more engaged and informed with the policies being proposed from government, opposition and the minor parties. Now, I am not asking the average voter to become an expert in government policy but to simply arm yourself with relevant information before casting your vote. Don't go to the polls with an outraged opinion of, “I'm sick of this government and it’s time for a change.” Instead, walk into that booth with the calm and measured facts from all sides, including that coming from industry and independent groups. Maybe a more mature and informed perspective towards the parties, policies and candidates would result in better representative outcomes for the electorates of this country.

LOCAL AFFAIRS

Crowds flock to Market Day Extravaganza at 17th annual Feast of Senses

Guest musicians James and Briar Blundell and Member for Hill Shane Knuth with 107 Squadron Australian Air Force cadets.

Sandal Hayes and Liz Gallie were volunteers at the Market Day and also promoted the upcoming Mission Beach Community Cassowary Festival on September 21.

Guest chef James Blundell, Jeff Baines and Bob Katter battled it out for culinary glory in the final of the Celebrity Cook-Off competition.

FROM PG1

WEATHER conditions were favourable for supporters, locals and visitors alike as they streamed into the Market Day Extravaganza, the finale event of the Feast of the Senses festival on Sunday in Innisfail CBD for a celebration of food, entertainment, activities and competitions. Cookery demonstrations were held by Ken Love, director of Hawaii Tropical Fruit Growers, Spencer Patrick, chef from Harrison’s in Port Douglas, master BBQ chef Paul Cross with a hibachi grill while Alison Salleras shared her knowledge on cutting and cooking breadfruit and Erica Hughes from Farmer Meets Foodie was on hand to interview chefs and some of the growers. The day provided a relaxing atmosphere for people to browse while listening to a variety of entertainment, sample local produce and food prepared by different nationalities and purchase a wide range of edible produce including tropical fruit, wines, herbs and spices, seafood, meats, jams and condiments, as well as local artists displaying their unique arts, crafts and handiwork. A selection of rare and exotic fruits were on display by local growers under the Cassowary Coast Branch Rare Fruit Australia marquee at Canecutter Court with many people congregating throughout the day to look, talk, taste and buy the many fruits on offer. The traditional fruit auctions were held towards the end of the day on the elevated stage. The heats of the annual Celebrity CookOff, which featured well-known local identities such as reigning champion Michael Sands Police Liaison Officer, Shane Knuth Member for Hill, Bob Katter MP, Brett Ambrum from Mamu Health Service and special guest James Blundell were hotly contested. In the grand final between Jeff Baines, Bob Katter and James Blundell local judge Marcelle McKenna was sold after tasting the Cane Bowl Pomelo Beef Salad created by James Blundell who chose to donate his proceeds to Goondi Scout Group. A huge children’s activity area called Family Fun Zone on the waterfront at Jack Fossey Park was new this year and featured rides, a jumping castle, laser tag, a petting zoo, pony rides, information booths and other family oriented static displays and activities. The Market Day was the culmination of the four day festival which included two food trails, Gala dinner at Innisfail State College Peppertree Restaurant, Feast Street, Innisfail’s Got Talent, Sunset Cocktail Cruise with Snapping Tours, screening of award winning film ‘The Fruit Hunters’ at The Con Theatre and Family Fun Zone.

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Ned Di Salvo and Terry Nucifora prepare refreshing granita from the Feast of The Three Saints Silkwood stall at the Feast of Senses.

MARIA GIRGENTI

Cassowary Coast Independent News, Thursday, April 4, 2019 Page 3

COMMUNITY NEWS

Community Urged To Support Cassowary Coast Salvation Army Red Shield Appeal MARIA GIRGENTI PREPARATIONS are well underway for the third annual Cassowary Coast Salvation Army Red Shield Appeal launch which will be held on Wednesday, April 10 at Innisfail RSL starting at 12 noon. Since last year’s launch committee members have been working hard behind the scenes to make this year’s event more successful and are hoping the local community will dig deep again and give generously. Major Ben Johnson and Robyn Lewis from the Salvation Army have been working closely with Red Shield Appeal business committee members: Mark Nolan (Chairman), Robyn Walker (Secretary), Sheila Leotta, Herb Layt, Dennis Stevenson, Les Sheahan, Sharon O’Reilly, Maria Girgenti, Gwen Hammerton, as

well as Innisfail team leaders Auxiliary Lieutenants David and Belinda Dobbie who are in the process of finalising details for the upcoming launch. This year sees Innisfail Lioness Club come onboard to assist with static collection and doorknock of local businesses. Mayor John Kremastos who is the ambassador for this year’s Red Shield Appeal and Chairman Mark Nolan are hoping the local community will support this major fundraising event. Local businesses and members of the community are invited to a light lunch to kickstart the 2019 Appeal. Salvation Army State leader Lieutenant-Colonel David Godkin will be a special guest at the launch while local Sharon O’Reilly will speak about her personal experiences and there will also be a video/slideshow pres-

entation and live music. The Red Shield Appeal, which began in 1965, is The Salvation Army’s signature fundraising drive which helps fund their vast network of social and community services. Each year, The Salvation Army appeals to the local community for donations to ensure hope can be given where it is needed most through its social welfare and community service programs. Services provided by the Salvation Army include shelter for the homeless, assisting families in crisis through practical support and financial counselling, crisis accommodation, bereavement by suicide support, to emergency and disaster relief, as well as guiding and rehabilitating people with drug and alcohol addictions to a clean, healthy lifestyle.

The Cassowary Coast official launch will be one of many events held around the country to kick off the appeal where corporate and community leaders are invited to be partners in the Salvation Army mission. The Red Shield Appeal is run over the months of April, May and June each year with this year’s Red Shield Doorknock taking place for the month of May and will see volunteer collectors at static stations in Innisfail, Tully and Cardwell. Funds raised help support people in the Cassowary Coast region that have been identified to have a requirement. Those attending the launch are kindly requested to RSVP by Saturday, April 6 for catering purposes by contacting 4051 2454 (between 9:00am to 3:00pm) or via email: cairns.corps@ aue.salvationarmy.org.

Community urged to support launch of 2019 Cassowary Coast Salvation Army Red Shield Appeal

A Night in Italy Tigers Leagues Club

Harmony Day for 2019 at the Tully Support Centre

Caroline Lloyd Doolan and Rick Romeo the performers from Attori. AROUND 80 people attended the Tigers Leagues Club in Tully when Entertainment business Attori has held its eight annual show, “A Night in Italy” on Saturday, March 30 in a celebration of cultural heritage. Business owner Rick Romeo said they perform all around Australia, with talented performers from Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne, Townsville as well as Tully. Regional artist Caroline Lloyd Doolan plays violin, with John Hutton on sound. Caroline has

played all over Australia in Philharmonic orchestras. Mr Romeo said, “I am a wog boy… I just talk about my family. Basically that’s the show: being a Sicilian/Australian boy.” “Every family is the same: the more you think you’re different, the more we are all the same. We just celebrate our heritage here today and Tully has come out in droves to see it which is great.” “I would like to say a big thankyou to Jo and the Tully Tigers for having me,” said Mr Romeo. “Rosie and Pete, the food here is

ridiculously good. It’s beautiful. We do shows around Australia and the food here is first class.” Their next performance will be ‘The Ultimate Jukebox Show’ at the Tigers Leagues Club on Saturday June 22. “What happens there, is you know how when you put menus on your table for your food? We put menus on your table for your entertainment. You get to choose what songs you want!” To book call Tigers Leagues club on 4068 1180

Page 4 Cassowary Coast Independent News, Thursday, April 4, 2019

THE Harmony Day activities were held in March from the 18th to the 22nd. We invited the Tully Kindy to join with us in making a everyone belongs activity, in which the children made some very amazing projects to show that it does not matter what culture we belong to, or where we live, we all belong and live together in harmony. We at the Tully Support Centre invited Paisley Rylance from 3alanced Dance to come and show us how in a unique, and supported dance experience

you can take the time to just be who you are and join in harmony with one another by relating to one another through music. We invited the wider community to come join us on the Monday March 18 and then we invited Paisley to come and dance with us at Explore, Develop, Grow (EDG) on Tuesday March 19. The EDG group meets every Tuesday at 9.30am at the Tully Support Centre.

COMMUNITY NEWS Innisfail Catholic community farewell Father Nathan McKay after three and a half years MARIA GIRGENTI PARISHIONERS of Innisfail Catholic community gathered recently to farewell Assistant Parish Priest Fr Nathan McKay with a special shared morning tea after his final Sunday morning Mass at Mother of Good Counsel Church. Fr McKay has moved to Melbourne to undertake a two year Masters in Spiritual Direction at a Jesuit College and will be based at St Brendan’s Catholic Parish in Flemington. He said training as a Spiritual Director was something he began as a teacher but never completed due to work commitments. “I’ve always had a desire to undertake study in this area and I feel the opportunity has been created. My studies can only benefit our Diocese upon my return.” Chairman of the Parish Council Wayne Gattera said he had a long association with Fr Nathan as they both attended university together. “Fr Nathan has always been kind, generous and a friendship person and we’ll always be thankful for all he has done for the people of this Parish.”

Fr Kerry Crowley said the parish was very blessed to have Fr Nathan for the past three and a half years and to appreciate he has responded to a religious vocation by being called to the priesthood which is deep in his heart. “Whilst Fr Nathan loved his teaching, at a mature age he was called by God and this is what we’ve witnessed in his practice and ministry during his time here.” Fr Crowley thanked Fr Nathan for his contribution to the parish and said he always put in 100% which flowed out to everyone. Fr Nathan said he had mixed feelings of sadness as he had formed many friendships and connections in different ways which he will miss but will take away many good memories and thanked everyone for what they had given him. “I look forward to the exciting new chapter of my studies which will be challenging but I know by keeping focused on my faith in the Lord, he will continue to provide me with guidance and direction.” Nathan’s first notion of a vocation to the priesthood began in 1983 which grew over time and he said his mother

Tully Nursing Home

(Jenny), late father (Bernard) and late versity of our universal church. Innisfail. grandmother Winnie McKay played a Nathan McKay was ordained with During his time he was also Chapsignificant role in his faith formation. Holy Orders on September 18, 2015 lain for the Innisfail, Tully and Babinda He completed four years of semi- at St Monica’s Cathedral in Cairns by branch of the National Servicemen’s narian training at Pontifical Beda Col- Bishop James Foley before taking up Association. lege in Rome which provided invalu- his posting as an Assistant Priest in able learning experiences and one of his most cherished moments from the seminary was meeting Pope Francis. He was ordained a Deacon on June 18, 2014 and during his Diaconal year he was Deacon at some important Masses at the College, and also enjoyed his pastoral placements in England which gave him a sense of the di- Innisfail Catholic community farewell Father Nathan McKay after three and a half years

The residents of the Nursing Home had a difficult but enjoyable job of judging a colouring competition for children aged 5 to 9 at both Tully State and St Clare’s schools. The residents enjoy the interaction with the school children with the Cherish Your Elders programme where the school children have been writing letters and the residents of the Nursing Home have made Easter cards for them in return.

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TULLY AND TULLY RURAL WATER SUPPLY SCHEMES MARCH 2  Brushing teeth  Washing or preparing food that is not going to be cooked  Preparing baby formula  Making ice. A program of flushing and testing has been initiated but the alert cannot be lifted without approval from Queensland Health. Cassowary Coast Regional Council apologises for the inconvenience and will provide updates as they become available. Council asks that this advice be shared with neighbours and friends in the affected area. For further information, please contact Council on 1 300 763 903 or refer advice on Council's web page or Facebook page

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HEAVY rainfall in the Boulder and Bulgun Creek catchments has led to elevated turbidity in the Tully and Tully rural water supply and, as Council’s disinfection system for those schemes may not be effective, residents should boil all water for consumption. Residents in Tully town, Feluga, East Feluga, Bulgun, Silky Oak, Euramo, Merryburn, South Mission Beach, Wongaling Beach, Carmoo, Hull Heads, Tully Heads, Jarra Creek area (Syndicate Road and Mullins Road) are advised to boil drinking water until further notice. Residents and businesses in the affected areas are advised to boil water for use in the following activities:  Drinking

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COMMUNITY NEWS

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR THE IMPORTANCE OF COAL AN ANSWER TO JOHN O’CONNOR’S LETTER IN CASSOWARY COAST INDEPENDENT NEWS. MARCH 28.2019. I was shocked to read John O’Connor’s letter on the importance of Coal. Alexander Pope wrote, “Know then thyself, presume not God to scan...” In this time when we are beginning to look at ourselves, our white supremacist past, and the sins that have been committed in the name of King/ Queen and The British Empire, John O’Connor’s opinions and assertions are outdated and wrong. God did not ‘give’ us, the Australians of 2019, the land or the coal beneath it. The British Navy, in the name of King and Empire plundered this land from The Peoples who had nurtured their land for countless generations, who were never negotiated with in good faith, and who never ceded sovereignty to it. To violate the land and the coal beneath it in the name of ‘God’ and ‘Jobs’ Is like selling a living human person for the iron or the water their body contains.

That land has sustained men, women and children for thousands of generations. It could do so again if it were not mined and poisoned and shamelessly destroyed. We are no longer instruments of The British Empire, but we are the trustees of stolen land and plundered wealth. Our duty Is NOT to leave a war for our children to fight and NOT to leave an empty poisoned country for our grandchildren to starve in. Our school children who are taking to the streets worldwide are feeling the emptiness of our culture. They sense the danger of our short-term goals and policies. The promise of “Wealth” and “jobs” is no longer enough to excuse greed, dishonesty, and destruction. It is true that in our modem civilization mined materials are everywhere. It is also true that we can change. There are other ways to grow and prosper while also caring for the Earth. In fact, these new ways

of prospering have already been discovered. We need courage, faith, honesty, and compassion to abandon the old ways and move forward. The Bible is, as John O’Connor writes “a very important book”, but nothing in it will think for us, or protect us from the consequences of our relentless pursuit of money and power. However, The New Testament of The Bible asks for “Humility” and “Repentance”. An indigenous American chief lamented: “Only when the last river is poisoned and the last fish is dead will the white man learn that he cannot eat money.” Was he right? Will we, the white people who have long considered ourselves, our Cultures and our Religion so superior, will we go arrogantly to our extinction? Rotha E Jago South Mission Beach

MONEY MAKES THE WORLD GO ‘ROUND? WELL no? The world was going ‘round before money was invented, and quite well! That phrase seems to have something to do with sheep. It seems to pull the wool over our eyes in order to allow us to be fleeced! Patrick Murphy East Feluga

ABC SNUBS MISSION BEACH AS a regular visitor to Mission Beach who hopes to one day move to this magical part of the world, you can imagine my disappointment when the ABC in its infinite wisdom decided not to air the “Escape from the City” – Mission Beach episode in favour of a politically motivated expose. At the time of writing, I have not been able to get a response for the ABC as to when this episode will air on free to air TV. It must also have been disappointing for businesses within the area who would have seen this as a wonderful way to showcase the region to the rest of Australia in prime viewing time. I guess I will just have to come for another visit real soon to get my ‘Mission Beach’ fix. Karen Schafer Abergowrie, QLD

MORE OF AN EVENT THAN A MEMORIAL I saw recently, that Cardwell was to have a memorial for a croc somebody shot in Meunga. I thought like everyone that this was madness and what was the world coming too, but I still went. The event wasn’t a memorial, more like an event for kids. My grandkids got to pet a baby croc and they got free stuff from Australia Zoo, so that’s never a bad thing. I know we live in a world where ignorance is bliss, where your opinion (especially on a subject you know nothing about) is needed! – No – Required. I’ve heard and seen much in abusive texts and tweets aimed at the organisers of the event – much along lines of their mental health – you are not a shrink! If you disagree with somebody don’t just shout at them, debate them with reason and facts. I stated at the beginning of this letter I thought thing of a croc memorial was ridiculous, but the fact is our town Cardwell is dying, this year is only 3 months old and already 6 business have closed down. We need these events to bring more people to our town. So I send a final congratulations to the organisers. And sign off Sal Agostino Cardwell

The views and comments made in letters to the editor are not necessarily the views and opinions of this paper. The Cassowary Coast Independent News reserves the right to cut content deemed as inappropriate, or not publish letters. Send your letters to: editor@ccin.com.au or text: 0473 350 465

CCRC March Thursday 28 DOMINIC MOBBS AT the Cassowary Coast Regional Council meeting in Tully on March 28 2019 an interesting presentation was held at the morning tea break by Tom and Cathy Long from Kurrimine Beach who were off to attend the Fish 2.0 Regional Innovators Forum to showcase their state of the art recyclable KoolPak container for perishable products, particularly seafood. They have applied for patents for their invention which is designed to replace the current widely used and environmentally unfriendly Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) seafood transport container. Not only is the KoolPak

Rates

sustainable, with better thermal performance than EPS, but can be flat packed to reduce transport costs. In due course radio frequency identification (RFID) will be incorporated within the KoolPak to facilitate tracking the containers. This Fish 2.0 Forum brings potential investors together with innovators such as the Longs who are seeking capital and partners. Their project, which CCIN will follow, is supported not only by the World Wide Fund for Nature, but also by the Australian Government Department of Industry, Innovation and Science through a commercialisation grant as part of the Entrepreneurs’ Programme.

In other CCRC news, in the Planning section approval was given to facilitate a new Auxiliary Fire & Rescue Station at El Arish, a Roadside Fruit and Vegetable Stall at 50 Moresby Rd., Moresby plus a new Tea House (including Shop, Food & Drink Outlet, Tourist Attraction and Rural Worker’s Accommodation) near the Mamu Tropical Skywalk on the Palmerston Highway, East Palmerston. There was also an update on progress of the construction of the new Wheatley’s Hill Reservoir plus approval was given to employ two new full time Local Law Officers.

Sale of Land for Overdue Rates

In accordance with chapter 4, part 12, Section 142 of the Local Government Regulation 2012, Cassowary Coast Regional Council hereby gives notice that unless payment of all overdue rates together with any expenses incurred on the following land is paid, the said land will be sold by public auction on: 6 April 2019 commencing

10.00am, Shire Hall Office, 70 Rankin Street, Innisfail Property Address: Tenure: Land Area: Legal Description: Title Reference:

7 Cook Street TULLY QLD 4854 Freehold 0.07 Ha L1 RP726276 20875155

Property Address: Tenure: Land Area: Legal Description: Title Reference:

34 Cahill Street EAST INNISFAIL QLD 4860 Freehold 0.1012 Ha L33 RP711791 20408126

All lands will be sold subject to any Mortgage, Lien, Bill of Sale, Caveat, Judgement, Writ or other Charge, Agreement or Process registered against or in any way affecting the property in favour of the Crown or any Crown instrumentality or any persons representing the Crown. All enquiries should be directed to the Coordinator Rates on 07 4030 2218

James Gott Chief Executive Officer

Page 6 Cassowary Coast Independent News, Thursday, April 4, 2019

PO Box 887, Innisfail Q 4860

Council AD

Does your community group need funding? Community Assistance Scheme – FY 2018-2019 Annual Grants Round Open NOW Council provides limited financial assistance to support community organisations and individuals making a positive contribution to the development of the Cassowary Coast region’s environmental, social and cultural values, economic, sport, recreation and lifestyle. Further information can be accessed on Council’s website: www.cassowarycoast.qld.gov.au/web/guest/community-assistance-scheme Annual Grant Round out now CLOSING: Friday May 3, 2019 for projects not commencing before Monday May 27, 2019. All projects must be completed in the 2019 calendar year. For the best opportunity to secure funding please contact Kath Hansen (Community Development Officer) on 40302255 prior to submitting your application.

Ph: 1300 763 903

Better Together

COMMUNITY NEWS

New Mission Beach distillery boosts region’s hot spot on FNQ’s food and wine trail KAP Leader and Federal Member for Kennedy Bob Katter is proud to welcome a new business backing the Mission Beach region’s successful push to become a “must-visit” on the Far North’s food and wine trail. He said the Mission Beach Distillery, run by nationally-renowned innovator and producer Paul Williams, would add another string to the small beach town’s bow. “The Mission Beach chocolate factory has won two of the world prizes, which was very well-deserved; a small beach town is now producing the best chocolates in the world,” Mr Katter said. “We already have winery in Murdering Point, but we are rapidly

becoming a centre for very sophisticated production of some of the more sophisticated and finer foods and beverages available in the world.” Paul Williams’ post space-age distillery is exciting just to look at and will become a tourist attraction in its own right, Mr Katter predicted. “A great vision of people like Robbie Sing; the embryonic days of food processing in NQ – in this case, bananas – is becoming like a runaway train now, with some of the best dried mango in the world, from wines to confectionery,” he said. The distillery’s Paul Williams and Lynda Hannah are recog-

MISSION BEACH DISTILLERY PHONE CREDIT TO ANNE PLEASH.

4854

The Tully Support Centre had a meeting on March 20 to discuss the purpose and goals of the the group 4854 with the aim of summarising objectives and identifying future projects. The TSC is a group that encompasses the 4854 region and view themselves as a positive community group that love our region, promote and support change and living positively. We all know the TSC as a centre that supports people of all ages, background and abilities, running community programs and engaging our youth. However, the 4854 group goes far beyond this and among its purposes, lists the following objectives: * Build a positive working relationship with the CCRC, schools, traditional owners, and other areas * Identify and support community champions who may not be a part of the group but have value to add. * Advocate for built environment, infrastructure, maintenance, economic development, and human social needs * Put Tully on the agenda for local, state and federal parliaments * Raise awareness of community issues and opportunities * Acknowledge the value and contributions of tourists and residents in developing and enhancing the region * Share the joy and positivity of our community with others * Help make the community a must-visit region for people from all over the country and the world, advocate and support tourism initiatives

and development including bananas/sugar/mill as tourist attractions * Encourage and embrace change and innovation to prosper as a region * Support the development of the village in the valley * Represent the whole of the community, ages, genders, cultural backgrounds and beliefs The TSC has developed a list of potential projects to focus on in the future, including: * Improving access by grey nomads and promote the need for the caravan park to be redeveloped * Support the improvement of the Tully markets * Improve signage to built and natural attractions, including the entrance to Tully and the main street * Improve the appearance of the Railway station * Improve lighting and safety in Tully town and on the highway turnoff * Work with owners, landlords and real-estates to improve the appearance and find alternative uses for vacant shops * Designated walks, better signage and promotion, better up-to-date brochures * Better info in the Gumboot * Museum and historical society to preserve our history including lost trades and skills * Native tree planting on vacant land, attract tourists and wildlife * Improve Lion’s park * Walking track to alligators * Mountain bike tracks, Tully gorge and Cardstone * Promoting the area as a lovely place to live, retire or raise a family.

nised for their great community spirit, achievements and small environmental footprint. “Not only have they been great citizens of NQ and lovely people – well-liked and extremely popular – but this gentle couple are super achievers,” Mr Katter said. “Their home is one of the very few homes in the world where nothing comes in and nothing goes out; their footprint upon the planet is negligible, except to produce truly wonderful things for their fellow Australians and God’s people who live upon the earth.”

PAUL WILLIAMS, PHOTO CREDIT TO ANNE PLEASH.

Innisfail Probus Club's visit to Hartley's Crocodile Adventures MARIA GIRGENTI EARLIER this month 53 members of the Innisfail Probus Club travelled by coach to Cairns for a day trip where they enjoyed a welcoming morning tea at Cazaly’s Social Club then onto Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures at Wangetti just in time for the salt and freshwater crocodile feeding. This was followed by an enjoyable lunch in Lilies Restaurant overlooking the lagoon and boat rides in the lagoon where several crocodiles appeared for the pole feeding. Members also took part in self-guided walks with informative signage to view a wide variety of birds and wildlife including koalas, a komodo dragon, a giant reticulated python, tamarins and a snake show. This adventure park is a gem in Far North Queensland and should be on everyone’s ‘must do’ list. Everyone agreed the day was fantastic and well

organised with a special thanks to Judi and Richard Rees for their attention to detail, as well as our coach driver Jason for a safe day of travels. Innisfail Probus Club promotes friendship, fellowship and fun for retired and semi-retired active members of the community. It’s a great way to meet new friends and participate in social activities with transport able to be arranged for those who need it.

Meetings are held in the Russ Hinze building at the Innisfail Showgrounds at 9:00am on the fourth Thursday of each month where morning tea and guest speakers are highlights. Dineouts, trips, movie matinees and other social events are always being organised. For all enquiries please contact the club secretary on 4064 4171.

Cassowary Coast Independent News, Thursday, April 4, 2019 Page 7

COMMUNITY NEWS

Celeste preview a box-office hit on Cassowary Coast

What’s on at the Tully Support Centre? Explore, Develop, Grow Where: Tully Support Centre When: Tuesdays 9:30am – 11:00am See the value of positive engagement with young people in your care, access parental supports and connect socially with others in caring roles. For parents and carers in our community. All children must be fully supervised, morning tea provided. School Holidays at the Tully Youth Centre Where: Mullins Building Tully Showgrounds When: Open Tuesday to Thursday from 3:30pm – 6:00pm. This school holidays the TYC will be running free lasertag and a BBQ on Thursday the 11th of April. Get your friends together and get on down to the TYC. The TYC has organised some great school holiday activities. TUESDAY 9th of April: A r t and craft WEDNESDAY 10th of April: Pool Comp THURSDAY 11th of April: Free Laser Tag & BBQ TUESDAY 16th of April: Games afternoon WEDNESDAY 17th of April: Pool Comp THURSDAY 18th of April: Movie afternoon

TICKETS have sold out for the exclusive preview screening of the locally filmed movie Celeste in the Innisfail Shire Hall this Thursday. More than 400 Cassowary Coast residents will walk the red carpet and have the opportunity to meet writer/director Ben Hackworth and leading man Thomas Cocquerel. Celeste is being screened courtesy of the Cassowary Coast Regional Council in association with Innisfail Chamber of Commerce, the Innisfail Advocate and Radio 4KZ, Unicorn Films, distributor Curious Films and Screen Queensland. The Innisfail Christmas Crew is organising refreshments, including savoury nibble packs ($5) and popcorn and chocolate. A cash bar (no cards) will be operating before and after the screening. The volunteer community group will receive $5 from each ticket sold for this year’s Innisfail Christmas

Carnivale street event. Paronella Park, where the film was shot, is offering 250 ticket holders a two-year free pass to the beautiful castle and grounds for a gold coin donation on Thursday night. All money donated will be passed on to the ‘Buy A Cow’ appeal for western graziers affected by first drought and then floods. Judy Evans from Paronella Park said ticket holders making a gold coin donation would be given a card, which they needed to activate within three months to receive a two-year entry ticket to Paronella Park. “If you love Paronella Park on the big screen, come and see it for real,” Ms Evans said. “Card holders can call into the front office at Mena Creek to activate the card and then return at their leisure to visit the castle and grounds as often as they wish over the next 24 months. We are hoping that people who haven’t been

Hello, It’s been raining and there is only today and tomorrow before the school holidays start. I am wondering what you are planning to do on the school holidays? I went to pet shop last week and saw these beautiful birds. The birds should be able to fly free. I am hoping you all have an awesome week! Blessings to you all! Don’t forget to STOP, LOOK AND LISTEN. Katriina

Cassowary Coast Domestic and Family Violence Service Where: Tully, Innisfail, Mission Beach and Cardwell Adult and Child counselling, court support and assistance. If you or someone you know is experiencing DFV please call 4068 1004 to make an appointment or call DVconnect on 1800 811 811. Remember if you are in danger dial 000.

Evening Crochet Group Where: Tully Support Centre When: Tuesdays, from 6pm Would you like to learn how to crochet in a casual/relaxed atmosphere? Then come join us! Free Tea and Coffee available The TSC is funded by the Queensland Government and services communities throughout the Cassowary Coast. The TSC is located at 54 Bryant Street in Tully, opening hours Monday, Tuesday and Thursday from 9am to 1pm & 2pm to 4pm; Wednesday 9am to 1pm & 2pm to 6pm. To register your interest or for more info about groups and other services please call 40 681 004, check the Tully Support Centre online at www.tullysupportcentre.com.au or follow us on facebook “Tully Support Centre Inc.”

CCRC Tourism Coordinator Richard Blanchette, who has been liaising with Melbourne-based Unicorn Films, said the doors will open at 6pm and the film will start at 7pm. A question and answer session will be held immediately following the film. Celeste is an intoxicating tale of love, betrayal and Schubert, set amidst the bohemian world of opera and a remote rainforest in Tropical North Queensland. It stars Radha Mitchell, Thomas Cocquerel, Nadine Garner and Odessa Young with supporting actors and extras cast from the Far North. It was co-written by the late Australian theatre star Bille Brown, after whom Queensland Theatre named its refurbished theatre alongside the Diane Cilento Studio in South Brisbane. Celeste opens in select Australian cinemas from April 25.

with Katriina Hyytinen

For all Young People aged 10 – 17 years. Food and Drinks provided, come down and check it out.

Tully District Knitting, Craft and Crochet Group Where: Tully Support Centre When: Mondays from 1:00 to 2:30pm Great people, fun, social afternoon.

to Paronella Park in years will take this opportunity to visit once again, as well as first-time visitors coming to see what is so special.” Cassowary Coast Mayor John Kremastos said he hoped the community would dress up for the occasion and enter into the spirit of a special night here on the Cassowary Coast. “We have organised a fantastic light show on the façade of the Shire Hall and are rolling out the red carpet. It will be fun to see people we know on the big screen alongside notable Australian actors,” Cr Kremastos said. “We live in a special part of the world and it will be good to see it showcased in Celeste. This event has been a terrific collaboration between Council, the Innisfail Chamber of Commerce, the Innisfail Advocate. Radio 4KZ and the producers, Unicorn Films. It’s all happening here on the Cassowary Coast!”

Finches and other varieties

Cardwell suffers at hands of Labor’s inaction A REFUSAL by the State Labor Government to dredge One Mile Creek means Cardwell will once again miss out on another economically lucrative tourism season. Almost nine months after Hinchinbrook MP Nick Dametto brought representatives from Port Hinchinbrook mortgagee Sino, Cassowary Coast Regional Council and maintenance firm Norship Marine to Cardwell for a discussion on how to restore Port Hinchinbrook to its former glory, the government refuses to give the town much-needed all-tidal access. “I believe the government has a responsibility to all Queenslanders to properly maintain its state-owned waterways,” Mr Dametto said. “They need to stop hiding behind an antiquated conformed deed which states dredging is the responsibility of Port Hinchinbrook’s developer. Cardwell is suffering because of this inaction by the gov-

Page 8 Cassowary Coast Independent News, Thursday, April 4, 2019

ernment.” Under the conformed deed which was signed by the State, Commonwealth, local council and original Port Hinchinbrook developer Williams Corporation in 1994, it was agreed that the developer assumed responsibility for the maintenance of the grand canal access channel, marina basin, roads and sewage treatment plant. However, Port Hinchinbrook’s current developer, Passage Holdings, was placed into liquidation in 2017. Last year, the Cairns Supreme Court determined Sino-Resource Import and Export Co Ltd was the legitimate mortgagee of Port Hinchinbrook. Mr Dametto said the sticking point for all parties involved in progressing Port Hinchinbrook had been the confirmed deed, which the Department of State Development “needed to rework in order to give the State Government more respon-

sibility for this breadwinning asset of the Cardwell community”. “This is a clear case of the State Government shirking their responsibility to the people of Cardwell and Port Hinchinbrook, who have long been hamstrung by the lack of access to One Mile Creek,” he said. “Dredging does not simply benefit the developer. It ensures all-tidal access for Cardwell Coast Guard and boat users in area, boosting both tourism and the local economy.” Mr Dametto said a lack of all-tidal access was hindering visitation to the area, which meant local businesses continued to struggle. “Cardwell residents are sick and tired of being in the doldrums. The town survives on tourism such as grey nomads and international visitors, both of which are being stifled,” he said. “On top of that, you have a serious safety issue where Cardwell’s Coast Guard vessel has been left

unable to respond to any potential vessels in distress on multiple occasions during low tide. “It’s time Labor realised that and stopped holding the people of Cardwell to ransom.” In a January media statement, Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey boasted about a $5 million dredging project to deliver all-tidal access to Molongle Creek boat ramp in the Whitsunday region. “This is hypocrisy of the highest order,” Mr Dametto said. “The government has no issues in contributing to the costs of dredging Molongle Creek but can’t do the same for One Mile Creek. What’s the hold up?” At present, boaties need about a 1.7m tide to leave Port Hinchinbrook and One Mile Creek safely, a full metre more than outside the creek entrance.