The Express Newspaper 1st February 2023

AFTER decades of selfless service to their communities, two Tablelands residents have been recognised with highly prestigious Order of Australia Medals.

Mareeba’s John Harvey OAM spent decades as a member of Mareeba Rotary, holding several positions during his time including president, secretary and treasurer.

Mr Harvey has also been a member of the St Thomas of Villanova Church for over half a century and was a member and chairman of the parish finance committee.

A desire to help his community is what pushed Mr Harvey to become a member of Rotary which at the time, was quite an honour as you had to be offered membership by the club.

“I was happy to do something for the community and I knew Rotary was involved in all sorts of things,” he said.

Mr Harvey was deeply honoured to be awarded an OAM and felt incredibly humbled.

“It is an honour there is no doubt about that but this medal was not what I had in mind when I was involved with all these things,” he said.

“I thank my wife and family as they were always involved in whatever I did too.”

Upper Barron’s Margit Cianelli OAM was the second Tablelander honoured with an OAM for her work with Lumholtz Tree Kangaroos, a species of tree kangaroo only native to the Far North rainforests.

Ms Cianelli has been caring for tree kangaroos ever since she moved to Upper Barron in 1972, drawing on her previous experience as a zoo keeper and her knowledge from studying in Stuttgart Germany.

“To be awarded an OAM is very humbling and I am still overwhelmed as I did not expect recognition for the work that I love doing so much,” she said.

“Thank you to the Tablelands Wildlife Rescue group, it is great to be part of your team.”

Correctional officer awarded medal honour

FOR the past 22 years, Assistant Commissioner Eloise Hamlett has gone above and beyond in her field and those efforts were recognised with an Australian Corrections Medal.

Commissioner Hamlett is one of three officers to receive the medal at last week’s ceremony for her dedication, passion and commitment during one of the largest crime epidemics on the Tablelands and in the Far North.

Born and raised in Mareeba, she said she always had a strong sense of community and has been drawn to regional areas across the state.

Starting her career as a psychologist at Borallon Correctional Centre, her interest in how the mind works and improving responses to First Nations people, who are overrepresented in the criminal justice system was a driving factor in working in corrective services.

“I have been involved in delivering a cultural response to First Nation’s people in corrective facilities and that includes elders visiting and NAIDOC celebrations as well as making sure all staff are cross-culturally trained,” Commissioner Hamlett said.

Commissioner Hamlett has also actively contributed to strategies that increase the percentage of First Nations staffing, particularly for the northern and far northern regions.

Feeling a mix of pride and excitement, Commissioner Hamlett could not believe she received the medal alongside two other Queensland officers.

“I got that winning feeling! It is such an overwhelming and humbling feeling to be receiving this award,” she said.

“It feels amazing to be recognised for what I do – you do the work because you have the passion for it and see the best in the community.”

Acting Corrective Services Minister, Mark Furner, congratulated Commissioner Hamlett and officers Superintendent Rhiannon Porter and Custodial Supervisor Shane Allwood and thanked them for their longterm commitment to public safety.

“I’d like to recognise these three worthy recipients of the Australian Corrections Medals,” Minister Furner said.

“Your dedication, passion and commitment has led to great change and positive outcomes for QCS.

“Today we recognise you for going above and beyond the call of duty and congratulate you on this remarkable achievement.”

Local police recognised for service

TWO Far North policemen have been recognised for their selfless years of dedication to the force, recently being awarded highly prestigious Australian Police Medals.

Senior Sergeant John McArthur, current officer in charge of the Cooktown Police Station and Superintendent Rhys Newton, District Officer of the Far North District hail from and

still work in the Far North and were two of 12 recipients of the medal this year.

The Australian Police Medal is presented just twice a year, on Australia Day and the King’s Birthday and recipients are nominated by commissioners of each policing jurisdiction.

This year, 12 of Queensland’s finest were given the incredible honour of being named recipients of the medal, they will be presented with their medals at a later date with a ceremony.

Police Commissioner Katarina Carroll congratulated 12 officers from the QPS who were awarded the medals.

“We don’t join the service for any accolades, but each of these officers is deserving of this recognition for the work they’ve done across the span of their careers,” she said.

“The recipients are dedicated officers of the QPS who are committed to keeping Queenslanders safe. I congratulate and thank each and every one of them.”

This year’s recipients come from a range of backgrounds with diverse experience, having served throughout Queensland in several roles and areas.

Commissioner Carroll said the officers had been recognised for the leadership, innovation and the initiative they displayed during their duty.

“Each officer has their own story – often comprised of the challenges they’ve faced and overcome through their career, but also the rewarding memories about the role they’ve played in their communities and the lives of everyday Queenslanders,” she said.

“I am incredibly proud to know and understand the impact these officers have in shaping a positive future for individuals they interact with, the communities they serve and our organisation.

“I congratulate them for receiving this significant honour today.”

Former Mareeba local Eloise Hamlett was recognised in the Australia Day Honours, receiving the Australian Corrections Medal.

Officer in Charge of the Cooktown Police Station John McArthur (above) was presented an Australian Police Medal alongside District Officer of the Far North District Superintendent Rhys Newton (below).

Council pushes ahead for strong economic growth

BY RHYS THOMAS

MAREEBA Shire Council has big plans to foster the shire’s economic development as sales from the Mareeba Industrial park bring in hundreds of thousands of dollars and private businesses are being sought for the management and development of the Mareeba Airport.

Only expressions of interest are being sought at this time, not official tenders, so council can see what ideas interested parties have for the management and development of the airport.

While council is asking for proprietors to run the airport, it has stressed that the airport will remain in council’s hands and not be sold.

Mayor Angela Toppin said managing airports was not council’s core business and having a private developer take on the task would be more beneficial to the shire.

“Council may have employees but they don’t necessarily have the expertise to drive something like the airport,” she said.

“We learned that with the Mareeba Industrial Park, we are not very good at marketing because that is not our core business.

“A real estate agent has taken that on and they are driving that and making it happen for Mareeba and bringing prosperity to the area.”

The formula of delegating council assets has already proved effective after Mareeba Property Office took

over the promotion and selling of Mareeba Industrial Park land in the in October last year.

In this financial year to date, council has recorded close to $1 million in sales for seven parcels of land at the park with 15 lots still available for purchase.

CEO Peter Franks said as council did not even have the funds to properly develop the airport on its own, the expressions of interest would hope-

fully attract experienced and knowledgeable applicants.

“If you want something to grow you have to invest money into it and council and the community doesn’t have that kind of money,” he said.

“So is there a private player out there who wants to invest more money into the airport to help it grow and develop?.

“All we are doing at this stage is putting it out there to ask ‘is there an-

Parking fines set to increase

PARKING officers will be able to fine more motorists who linger too long in Byrnes Street or in the Kuranda CBD, with Mareeba Shire planning to implement a much quicker and more efficient way of issuing parking infringements.

ybody interested and provide us with what your ideas are’.”

If council’s interest is piqued by any of the offers they will then be asked to provide a formal offer.

“It is now an opportune time to explore opportunities to maximise the economic potential of the Mareeba Airport to assist in the economic development of the shire,” Mayor Toppin said.

“The potential for economic growth in the airport was the driving force behind the $23 million upgrade completed in 2019.

“We are now at the point where council can facilitate the next stage of development.”

While council is open to offers from the private sector, Mayor Toppin said under no circumstances would council sell the airport.

“This is only stage one of the process and no decision with regard to the future of the airport has been made,” she said.

“If there are any interesting proposals, then council move to the next stage which is calling for formal tenders and this is when the details will become apparent.

“All proposals will be carefully scrutinised by council and those that are found to meet council's objectives and offer significant community and economic benefits, would then be invited to move to Stage 2 and submit formal tenders for council's consideration.”

Officers have issued 81 parking infringements over the past quarter, up on the 64 issued for the same period last year, but that is likely to increase again once officers begin to use a new electronic machine and process for issuing parking fines. The change is expected to start this month.

Currently overstaying in parking bays incurs a $43 fine, with loading zones infringements costing $71. Parking is a disabled bay without a permit incurs a $287 fine. A council report noted that parking patrols in both Mareeba and Kuranda had been reinstated.

Woman dies in highway crash

A WOMAN died following a fatal two-vehicle crash in Mareeba late on Friday afternoon.

Initial investigations indicate the accident occurred shortly before 5pm and involved a ute and motorcycle which collided near the drive-in turnoff on the Kennedy Highway.

The motorcycle rider, a woman in her 60s, sustained critical injuries and died at the scene. The driver and passenger of the ute were not physically injured. Any witnesses or anyone with dashcam vision are urged to contact police.

The Forensic Crash Unit is investigating.

The Mareeba Industrial Park has provided close to $1 million in sales this financial year.

AUSTRALIA DAY awards 2023

MAREEBA Shire’s most outstanding community leaders, volunteers and sportspeople were all recognised at Mareeba Shire Council’s Australia Day Awards last week with a young entrepreneur with dreams of being a high performance coach and an indigenous women who opens her home and heart to those doing it tough being recognised as the Young Citizen and Citizen of the Year.

The Mareeba International Club played host to this year’s ceremony as nominees and their families attended to celebrate the amazing things they do each year.

There were 11 awards given out to shire residents this year including junior and senior sportsperson of the year, excellence awards and community service awards.

The highest accolades however went to Coco Gambino and Marcia Nguyen who both were completely surprised they were named Young Citizen and Citizen of the Year.

Ms Gambino was not only nominated for her stellar academic and sporting success but also for her work ethic as she worked two jobs whilst studying in grade 12 and has plans to start her own after-school athletics program.

She has further aspirations to combine her love for sport and her academic prowess by becoming a high-performance sporting coach for a nationally or internationally acclaimed team.

“I am actually really surprised and was not expecting it at all, I was hoping to get Junior Sportsperson so to be named Junior Citizen is quite a shock,” she said.

“I do want to work with elite athletes and be a high-performance coach after my university course.

“Words cannot describe how I am feeling, all I can say is thank you – I have worked so hard for it and it is good to see all my hard work has paid off.”

Ms Nguyen decided on the day of the awards that she would attend as she did not expect to even be nominated in the first place, let along be named as Citizen of the Year.

“I did not expect to be nominated let alone win, I wasn’t even going to go until the last minute,” Ms Nguyen said.

“I feel very honoured to be nominated and would like to thank whoever nominated me.

“I am still in shock really.”

While working to support herself, the Dimbulah resident also takes in troubled indigenous kids and struggling families, helping them to find their feet and give them direction without any kind of monetary support – she has done this for the past two decades.

“I take in foster children and anyone really who needs help and I just do it out of the goodness of my heart,” Ms Nguyen said.

“It is probably due to how I was raised by my parents who did the same, they taught us not to turn away anyone in need, there is always someone out there who needs help, treat people how you would like to be treated and respect everyone no matter who.”

Alannah Falvo was awarded an Excellence Award for her dedication and achievements in academic pursuits, sports, cultural and community activities.

The Senior Community Service Award went to Michael Dwyer for his work as a Justice of the Peace at the Mareeba Courthouse and another was given to Bill McKerlie who his advocacy work for the Mareeba Shire and time on the Mt Molloy Rural Fire Brigade.

The Junior Community Service Award was awarded to Joshua Snell for his academic and sporting achievements.

Mareeba Bulls coach Christian Mukadi was named as the Senior Sportsperson of the Year for his work with the club’s juniors, his executive po-

sition and multiple coaching duties while gymnast Frank Tulloch was named as the Junior Sportsperson of the Year, he is a current gold medal holder for floor.

Rugby League star Aerielle (May May) Hobbler received a Highly Commended in the Sports Category Award for her drive, dedication and achievements in Rugby League.

Delwyn Richards received an Environment and Community Service Award for his expertise in Australian birdlife and constant clean-up of litter of the Rex Range.

The Mareeba Gymnastics Club was named as

the Community Organisation of the Year for their service to the community over the past 100 years. Mayor Angela Toppin took time to thank each and every person who nominated for an award during her speech prior to the awards.

“I am very proud of the overwhelming sense of community spirit, resilience, compassion and generosity that continues to shine through across the Shire and will take this as one of the greatest positives from the last few years,” she said. Visit www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au for more photos and info on the awards.

Councillor Update

Mareeba Shire Council Deputy Mayor Kevin Davies

I am pleased to provide an update to residents and ratepayers on some of the latest news from Council.

Australia Day Award Recipients

It was a great privilege to be the Master of Ceremonies at Council’s Annual Australia Day Awards, on Thursday, 26 January 2023, where Council presented awards to worthy residents that make a significant contribution to our Shire.

I would like to congratulate our Citizen of the Year, Marcia Nguyen, who does a tremendous job supporting children and families in Dimbulah, and Coco Gambino, our Young Citizen of the Year, who is recognised for her sporting and academic achievements and her commitment to volunteering.

I would also like to thank all our nominees for the work they have done, and will continue to do, to make this community a better place.

Emergency Repair Work Continuing

Mareeba Shire Council is responding to several roads requiring emergency repairs following heavy rainfall throughout January 2023.

I would like to thank residents for their patience and understanding while Council responds to customer requests relating to damage to multiple roads across our vast road network. Our staff will respond to the request when it is safe and practical to do so. Please report any new damage to Mareeba Shire Council on 1300 308 461.

Upcoming Free Domestic Green Waste Days

Mareeba Shire Council offers free domestic green waste disposal every quarter and the next scheduled days will occur this coming

weekend. Visit Council’s website and search ‘Free Green Waste’ for additional information.

Have Your SayMareeba Heavy Vehicle Bypass

I would like to encourage Mareeba residents and road users to complete the Department of Transport and Main Roads’ (TMR) survey into the development of the Mareeba Heavy Vehicle Bypass. Feedback on the proposed bypass will be used to inform the project planning outcomes.

In the survey, TMR is also inviting comment on Byrnes Street and the road network generally, as it is relevant to the bypass planning.

Visit Council’s website and search ‘Mareeba Bypass’ for a link to the online survey or an electronic fillable version of the survey. A hard copy of the survey is also available at the Mareeba Customer Service Centre. The due date for the survey is Thursday, 23 February 2023.

Deputy Mayor Cr. Kevin Davies

Phone: 0400 490 493

Mail: PO Box 154 Mareeba QLD 4880

MAREEBA SHIRE COUNCIL Award winners

Mareeba Shire’s Citizen and Young Citizen of the Year Marcia Nguyen and Coco Gambino.

The Senior Community Service Award went to Michael Dwyer.

Christian Mukadi was awarded the Seniors Sporsperson award.

The Junior Community Service Award went to Joshua Snell. Frank Tulloch was named Junior Sportsperson of the Year,

AUSTRALIA DAY awards 2023

AWOMAN who devotes her time to making Malanda a great place to live and a teenager who has already achieved much for her age were honoured to have been selected as the Tablelands Citizen of the Year and Young Citizen of the Year at a ceremony last week.

As the volunteer secretary of the Malanda Chamber of Commerce, Gail Barton has been described as “the epitome of selflessness and determination”.

She has been pivotal in the redevelopment of Jack May Park and pump track, and a key organiser of the town’s Queensland Day Family Fun Day, Christmas in July trivia night and the annual Malanda Shop Local Christmas Street Festival.

Gail also participated in the TV program “Adventure All Stars” to raise funds for the Moyamoya Australia, and is currently fundraising for local charity “This Strong Mum”.

Humbled by the accolade, Gail said she was so sure she wouldn’t win the prestigious award, she had not even considered writing an acceptance speech.

“There are so many people involved in what we do, it’s a real team effort and we collaborate with the local schools and other groups – you can really achieve something when you all work together,” she said.

“I do a lot of work in our community because that’s my passion, my purpose, that’s what gets me up in the morning, and I love giving back.

“I couldn’t do what I do with-

out the support of my family, my friends and organisations like the Malanda Chamber of Commerce. We have 73 members and when we put on events, it’s not just me – it’s a team of people. I thank those people who come and put their hand up because, honestly, nothing happens without volunteers.”

As the 2023 Young Citizen of the Year, Marni Dennis was also humbled at being chosen for such an honour.

“Thank you to everyone for supporting me through this journey and thanks to my school (Atherton High School) for the opportunities they presented to me, and thanks to the community for supporting me – I am grateful for the opportunity to give back,” she told the gathering.

The 2022 Atherton State High School captain is described as “an inspiration and role model” by contributing to the community through the Tablelands Regional Council Youth Advisory Committee, Tablelands 2030+ forums, ANZAC Day ceremonies, and other community events.

She has represented the Tablelands in the State Honours Ensemble Program, and at various science and technology forums and competitions. Marni also constantly develops her leadership skills to benefit her peers.

In his address, Mayor Rod Marti spoke of the importance of Australia Day as a time for reflection.

“It’s a day to reflect on our history – its highs and its lows. And to write the new chapters.

It’s a day to respect the stories of others. Today, we celebrate our nation, its achievements and most of all, our people,” he told the audience.

A passionate advocate for women’s self-defence and described as an amazing coach and mentor, Annette Schep took out the Sport Supporter Award for her commitment to Taekwondo and dedication to the community, while national and state champion in sailing, Breanne Wadley won the Junior Sports Award in recognition of her outstanding achievements in her chosen sport.

Rebel Warren won the Cultural Award for her 30-year involvement in music on the Tablelands, having mentored many young people as well as being involved in with many community events and theatre productions.

The Atherton Performing Arts Youth Theatre, a group of 30 actors aged between nine and 17 years, won the Junior Cultural Award for their excellent two full-length quality classic plays –“A Midsummer Night’s Dream” and “Lord of the Flies” – staged in 2022.

The Atherton Tableland Agricultural Society was named the winner of the Inclusion Award, in part for the introduction of a companion card for free entry for carers/support workers, and all abilities art and craft classes. Show goers can also visit a sensory room, which lowers music, has no flashing lights and makes the show available and enjoyable for people with sensory overload.

Peter Tuck & Tableland Trees, Trails & Tracks picked up the Community Service Award for the work the group has done over the past three years planting and maintaining the trees along the Atherton Tablelands Rail Trail. More than 2600 trees have been planted during 2500 volunteers hours. Peter collects seeds and propagated approximately 1000 seedlings.

The Malanda Chamber of Commerce’s annual Christmas Street Festival was a popular winner of the Community Event Award. The event attracts more than 2000 people and kicks off the town’s Shop Local Campaign, showcasing up to 80 local market stalls and businesses.

Visit www.theexpress newspaper.com.au for more photos and info on the awards.

Young Citizen of the Year Marni Dennis.

Community Service Award winner Peter Tuck and the Tableland Trees, Trails & Tracks

The Junior Sports Award went to Breanne Wadley Sports Supporter Award winner Annette Schep.

The Junior Cultural Award was won by Atherton Performing Arts and accepted by Kye Ghelfi (left) and Kshama Moon.

Cultural Award winner Rebel Warren with Deputy Mayor Cr Kevin Cardew.

The Inclusion Award went to the Atherton Show Society, accepted by secretary Vicki Baylis and president Alan Dowling, pictured with Cr Peter Hodge.

RESIDENTS in Kuranda and the surrounding area will have more area to bury and honour their loved ones after Mareeba Shire Council approved their own development application for a new Kuranda Cemetery.

The existing cemetery has been used by the community since the early 1900s and only had a few more months of use left.

Council was able to purchase a suitable plot of land at 70 Kuranda Heights Road which will now serve as the location for the new

cemetery. A council officer indicated to council last year that the new site would be able to service the community for the next 100 years.

A motion was passed at the recent meeting to reconfigure the lot from one into two to allow the construction of the first stage of the new cemetery.

The cemetery will be built in stages with the first stage providing the community with over 30 years of service at the current rate of use.

Concerns continue over state of roads

BY ROBYN HOLMES

SECTIONS of the Kennedy Highway at Rocky Creek were given a new bitumen seal last week as Main Roads moved to repair the road after weeks of heavy rain took its toll on the surface of the road, causing clusters of potholes.

there are further issues that need to be addressed between Atherton and Mareeba including potholes, flooding and water pooling the wheel tracks in places along the highway,” he said.

“It’s disappointing that parts of this recently upgraded highway are continuing to deteriorate and create hazards and concerns for drivers.”

BLINDS:

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Email: admin@mareebafcc.com.au

But while that part of the highway has now been repaired, motorists remain unimpressed by the upgrade to the highway between Atherton and Mareeba, with water pooling on many parts of the road during heavy rainfall, causing vehicles to aquaplane, no overtaking lanes heading north, and rough, bumpy sections where the base of the road was not smoothed out before the new bitumen was applied.

On 18 January, intense rainfall caused side roads to turn into creeks of red soil and water, flowing fast across several areas of the highway between Rocky Creek and Tolga.

Member for Hill Shane Knuth, who seven years ago got ministerial intervention to the Rocky Creek intersection after a man lost his life there, has once again raised concerns about the condition of the highway on behalf of all road users.

“While we welcome the quick response from Main Roads for the repairs and further maintenance at Rocky Creek,

Mr Knuth also raised the need for more overtaking lanes between the two big urban centres.

“While a case study is to be done and passing lanes are definitely a priority, there is no funding in the budget but I will continue to raise the need for upgrades to the Kennedy Highway to the Minister for Transport,” he said.

Meanwhile Tablelands Regional Council officers and Cr Bernie Wilce inspected areas of Griffin Road last week after residents were forced to drive through floodwaters after the 18 January deluge that hit the area.

Residents have also complained about deep ruts at the side of the road, making it dangerous for two cars to pass each other, made worse by the high number of cyclists and walkers on the road.

“They listened to our concerns and were going to look at the road where we pointed out need addressing, but, as usual, there are no funds for the proper

infrastructure to be carried out,” one of the residents said.

“We have been informed people walking up the road and cyclists do at their own risk, nothing can be done to address this. Also adding the training the Red Earth do on the lower end of Griffin Road to the butchery is also at their own risk.

“But no one takes into account the dangers of the residents either harming them or damaging their vehicles getting out of their way.

“So, we will wait and see if anything gets done. But it seems

we will end up with stop and go lights on our road as they have previously done.”

TRC Infrastructure and Environment general manager Mark Vis said Griffin Road drains and road edges would be assessed and, if “intervention levels” were met, maintenance would be conducted.

“The community can lodge requests for service for roads, drains and other TRC-maintained infrastructure via our website, email, phone and customer service centres,” he added.

RAVENSHOE will have a new grocery store in Grigg Street after Tablelands Regional Council approved a development permit for the project.

The site currently accommodates a grocery store and a storage shed which will both be demolished to make way for a new structure that will host a grocery store and two small shops that will all front Grigg Street.

Cr Dave Bilney welcomed the project.

“It's pleasing to see that the applicant has the confidence in the community and the

broader Tablelands region to invest in the way that he has - it's a great outcome,” he said.

The existing gravel on-site car park area will be sealed to create 43 on-site spaces, including two disabled spaces, and the access will also be sealed, pleasing Cr Annette Haydon.

“The developer has to seal the entirety of the parking and access easement area which will mean dirt and mud cease being driven out on Grigg Street,” she said, adding that the additional parking would be also be beneficial.

One of the sections of Griffin Road with rutting at the edges.

“Just give us one full night of sleep”

Mareeba resident’s desperate plea for peace and quiet as parties rage at local park

BY RHYS THOMAS

AFTER being kept up all hours of the night for weeks on end due to parties in the park across the street, one concerned Mareeba resident is just asking for a decent night’s sleep so she can properly care for her elderly mother and have her grandchildren feel safe when visiting.

For the past 18 months, the resident claims disturbances including loud music, arguing and fighting have increased in Mareeba’s Rotary Park as parties raging all through the day and into the night.

The park is on the northern side of town just before the Granite Bridge and is often used by travellers with campers, tourists and even serves as a stop for events such as the Cardiac Challenge.

“It was really good, they would party during the day and keep the noise down at night but then all of a sudden, more turned up and they would go all night,” the resident said.

“They started bringing their own speakers and we had a whole weekend of country and western which was very unusual.

“You can cope with the music but then they start arguing and the more they drink the louder they get, the louder they get the more they start arguing and then it goes on all night.”

The resident claims once the police are called and attend the scene, they dispose of any alcohol they can see and leave, at which point the partygoers “go to where they’ve got it stashed” refill and continue.

“You ring the Policelink number and because it isn’t an emergency the police will get there as soon as they can – they turn up, empty out the alcohol and they leave,” she said.

“They go to where they’ve got it stashed and get some more – they never have it all at the tables.”

At one point the resident claims she helped direct an officer to two stashed casks of wine in the medium strip of the main road however Mareeba Police could not confirm if this incident occurred.

On several other occasions, the resident reported visitors who were travelling through town with caravans and four-wheel drives have stopped at the park only to be abused and chased off.

Not only does the resident care for her elderly mother and administer crucial medicine, she is also a grandmother whose grandkids do not feel safe spending the night at her home due to the party just a few metres over the road.

“We have my granddaughter a few days during the week and she just wanted to stay a night so we’ve let her stay, she has gone home exhausted because she hasn’t slept,” she said.

“Now she doesn’t want to stay the night because she is spooked by the noise.

“A four-year-old shouldn’t be like that, she should be able to come to grandma’s place and feel safe but she can’t, which is wrong.

“Just give us one full night of sleep, I’ve got a son who is a boss on a banana farm who stays with us and he goes over to his mates place a couple nights a week just to get some uninterrupted sleep.

“It is just getting worse.”

Mareeba Police have confirmed there has been an increase in calls to address disturbances at the

park since December last year which is due to an influx of people from other communities – they have recorded 76 calls pertaining to disturbances at the park since 1 July last year.

Rotary Park has been identified as a direction patrol location for police to check during their shifts as well as other areas of Mareeba’s CBD where they address any anti-social behaviour and liquor/good order related offences.

Mareeba Police Station officer in charge Acting Senior Sergeant Shane Mattes said while the park was a public space, police were able to issue move on directions to people from certain places as long as certain criteria is met.

“Police are currently engaging with the appropriate support services to assist in addressing public space issues,” he said.

“Police are able to issue ‘move on directions’ to people from certain places as long as certain criteria is met.

“Anyone who fails to comply with a move on direction is committing an offence and will be charged with failing to comply with a requirement or direction.”

While Mareeba Shire Council is aware of the noise and disturbance complaints surrounding Rotary Park, they are unable to do anything to rectify the issue as the park is a public space and open to everyone.

“Council will continue to maintain Rotary Park and other parks across the shire,” Mayor Angela Toppin said.

“Parks enhance our shire’s visual appeal and livability and open spaces encourages active communities and economic development.”

Council is encouraging residents to report noise and disturbance complaints to the Mareeba Police.

Town to commemorate leader

DIMBULAH locals will come together to celebrate the life of one of the town’s most influential figures, hosting a special Fred Cattarossi commemoration day on 18 February.

As the son of a pioneering tobacco farming family in Dimbulah, Mr Cattarossi spent many of his years in and around tobacco farms, eventually sitting on the Tobacco Marketing Board.

Mr Cattarossi was also influential in the establishment of both the Dimbulah Bowls Club and the soccer club as well as being a life member of the Dimbulah Lions Club.

Much of his life was dedicated to the Dimbulah community and upon becoming a Mareeba Shire Councillor in 1973, Mr Cattarossi continued to advocate for his community for the next 34 years.

Mr Cattarossi passed away late last year in Brisbane and members of the Dimbulah Community have banded together to host a special commemoration day in his honour.

Dimbulah Lions Club member Eddie Tof-

fanello said it was important to celebrate Mr Cattarossi’s life as he was an integral part of the community.

“As soon as we heard of his passing the Lions Club organised a wreath to be sent down to the family, they then got in touch with us,” he said.

“If he had of died in Dimbulah, I am sure there would have been a massive service but it wasn’t meant to be.”

The one-off commemoration day will be held on 18 February from 12pm at the Dimbulah Bowls Club with a few games of social bowls to be played as well as a BBQ done by the Lions later in the evening.

Mr Cattarossi’s family have already confirmed their attendance for the event and the Lions Club is inviting all friends and family along for the day.

Members of the Mareeba Shire Council and other organisations Mr Cattarossi has been affiliated with over the year will also be attending.

Day to recognise First Peoples

FEDERAL Member for Ken-

nedy Bob Katter has weighed in on the Australia Day debate and has proposed two days of celebration, respect and remembrance.

Mr Katter, who “celebrates Australia Day every day”, spent the day touring festivities around Far North Queensland while assessing the national debate and said the media coverage of the day suggested “it was not working”.

“Yet it mostly certainly was at Cardwell where the Cassowary Coast Regional Council held its ceremonies, and at the Kurrimine Beach and Garradunga pubs,” Mr Katter said.

He said 26 January should continue to be celebrated as the nation’s annual day, and there should be a second day to celebrate First Australians, possibly on what is now celebrated as the Queen’s Birthday holiday (set to become the King’s Birthday this year).

“I have respect for England, and I revere the constitution of our nation, but I believe infinitely more, that all men and women are equal. I’m sorry but having kings and queens is not compatible with all people being equal,” he said.

See Vocal Local on page 20 for views on keeping the Australia Day date.

Fred Cattarossi with his wife Marg. LEFT: Fred picking tobacco on his farm.

New facility to help families

FAMILIES navigating the challenges of separation and divorce on the Tablelands now have access to a safe space and comfortable space for children to maintain contact with parents they no longer live with and other family members in a safe environment.

Community social services group, Better Together, officially opened their Children’s Contact Centre recently at their Mabel Street centre.

The centre will provide a neutral and secure environment for children to have contact with family members, while ensuring the safety and well-being of the children.

Children’s Contact Centre coordinator Claire Niyokwizera said she was excited to announce the opening of the facility and hoped it would benefit the many young people and their families currently facing hardship.

"We are excited to launch this new service the first on the Atherton Tablelands, which is a vital resource for families in our community," she said.

"The Children's Contact Centre will provide a safe and secure environment for children to maintain relationships with non-custodial parents and other family members, which is essen-

tial for their emotional and psychological wellbeing."

The facility also offers supervised “changeover” services, where parents can exchange their children in a safe and neutral environment without contact with the other parent.

Up until now solutions for parents in these situations was to go to Relationships Australia in Cairns or meet at a parking lot or another public meeting place to exchange kids.

Ms Niyokwizera said this could be daunting for some parents facing domestic violence, but also very anxiety provoking for children.

The other function of the centre is to provide a friendly environment for parents to have supervised visits that include rooms with toys and a small garden with a sand pit.

The Children's Contact Centre is now open and accepting clients, a “changeover” costs about $5 and a supervised visit is $20.

The fees are kept low and no one will be turned away if they are facing financial hardship and cannot pay.

For more information contact Better Together on 4091 3850 or visit the website at bettertogether.com.au

Strategy to inform TRC budget process

A BUDGET strategy has been developed to assist Tableland Regional Councillors as they begin deliberations for the 2023-24 financial year in a bid to keep rates as low as possible while coping with rising costs.

Council is under pressure to keep rate rises to a minimum given new land valuations will emerge in March which are likely to reflect a rise in the value of land in parts of the local government area.

The budget strategy includes a number of considerations such as the current cost of living, operating requirements of council, asset requirements, decreasing grant funding, and increasing expenses such as electricity and construction materials.

Officers are already flagging that the new budget will have a deficit operating position if general

rate increases “are limited”, taking into account that grant funds are likely to be reduced and costs will continue to climb.

“Grant funds to support operational activities are expected to continually decrease over the coming years placing additional pressure on revenue recovery activities such as rates, utilities, fees and charges,” a report to council stated.

“It is understood that due to largely to inflation (CPI to the September 2022 quarter being 7.3 per cent), council costs to deliver the same services / service levels are expected to increase by a similar percentage.”

But at last week's meeting, Cr Dave Bilney took exception to officers assumptions, saying that until the process had been worked through, there

was no firm position that the operating budget would be at a deficit.

Currently, the organisation is undertaking a service review that will feed into the operational budget and future budget planning.

The Capital Works budget is also expected to be bigger than previous years due to the need to deliver essential water and sewerage infrastructure. As part of the budget deliberation process, preliminary capital workshops have already been conducted, with a focus on essential infrastructure.

“Capital project wish lists will be deferred to allow focus on strategic initiatives and major projects,” the report stated.

“Prioritised capital deliverables will be smoothed over the next four years instead of three

Stephen knows banking

years, to ensure deliverability. An amount in the order of $15 million will be preserved in the capital budget each year for asset renewal.”

But financial officers have already flagged the council may need to borrow to deliver what is required.

“Depending on the adopted capital budget additional loans are likely required,” the report stated.

Currently, the council has loans of $5.1 million which equates to approximately $393 per rateable property.

Final capital and operational budget development workshops will take place in the last week of March, with the 2023/24 Budget and Operational Plan expected to be adopted by 30 June.

Better Together Children’s Contact Centre coordinator Claire Niyokwizera welcomes families navigating separation and divorce to their new centre.

Honouring Missy one race at a time

BY ELLIE FINK

AT only 15 years old, Flynn Hyde is rally car racing for a cause, taking his best friend Missy Clarkson’s memory and legacy with him in the passenger seat.

When Flynn met Missy, they instantly became best friends, so much so that Missy’s mother Anj Mittelstadt considers Flynn a part of their family.

When Missy was diagnosed with her first bout of cancer, acute lymphoblastic leukemia, their whole world turned upside down.

“Missy was my best mate in school, and she would always bring me food – a truly good friend,” he said.

“When she was diagnosed and was stuck in hospital, it was the worse, especially at school.”

Throughout Missy’s treatments she received nearly 200 blood transfusions and with blood becoming harder and harder to access, Anj started her organisation “Missy’s Donors” which encourages people to donate blood and plasma to people like her daughter.

Unfortunately, after being diagnosed with two more aggressive cancers – Myelodysplastic, which effects the bone marrow, and pure erythroid leukemia, a very rare cancer that effects 0.077 per cent of 100,000 people – Missy passed away in 2020 at age 13.

The news was a shock to the community, especially Flynn, who was also 13 at the time, but almost three years on, he is honouring her incredible journey and strength.

Not long after losing Missy, Flynn’s mother Bec Schaffer introduced rally car racing to him with hopes to teach him how to cope behind the wheel before getting his licence and fulfil his love of cars.

“My thinking behind getting him behind the wheel was for him to get lots of experience in a car before he actually got his licence,” Bec said.

“So that you know, if he came across a cropper somewhere while he had his licence, he knew how to get out of a spin or a drift or something like that.

“Him and his uncle Jeffery went and found a little Hyundai that had been laying in a paddock for who knows how long and they managed to start it up first try and then in September last year, Flynn decided to spray paint it and get it in the right condition to showcase Missy’s Donors.”

From the moment he got on the track, he fell in love and attended several khanacross events (a short dirt rally) in Mareeba and Tepon with FNQ Motorsports.

Starting the conversation on the track, Flynn was determined to encourage anyone and everyone he could to donate in hopes it could save someone’s life.

“Seeing the big ‘Missy’s Donors’ banner across the top of the car, I definitely get lots of questions about what it is and whether they sponsor me,” Flynn said.

“The fact is, I am not ‘sponsored’ by them. I am just spreading awareness for the organisation and my best mate and I always make sure they check out the website and encourage them to donate blood.”

Watching Flynn honour her daughter’s legacy every day, Anj is beyond proud of his effort to put the Missy’s Donors name out there.

“We are so happy to support Flynn – we just think he absolutely amazing,” she said.

“We are so happy to be able to support him in his journey and to see Missy’s Donors on the top of the car is just so cool.

Free green waste days for Shire

MAREEBA Shire residents will be able to capitalise on a selection of free domestic green waste disposal days at council transfer facilities this week.

Every quarter, Mareeba Shire Council hosts free domestic green waste days with the next scheduled days occurring in early February.

Flynn Hyde is honouring his best friend’s legacy as rally car racer alongside Missy’s mother and founder of Missy’s Donors Anj Mittelstadt.

BELOW: Missy, Kobi, Chloe, Kelly and Flynn were the best of friends throughout Missy’s life.

“Missy would be so proud of him and even though she wasn’t a sporty person at all – more of a science geek actually –she would have sat on the sidelines and cheered him on.

“We just wish him all the success in the universe with this next year and what he wants to do and whatever he does here and reflects on the man he'll be in the future.”

Flynn will also be shaving his long ginger locks off in Missy’s honour before taking part in the 20th Great Wheelbarrow Race this year alongside many of Missy’s friends.

“Council has mulched the green waste at the Mareeba and Kuranda Transfer Station In preparation for the upcoming days,” Mayor Angela Toppin said.

The upcoming dates are:

• Mutchilba Transfer Station

Wednesday, 1 February and Saturday, 4 February

• Chillagoe Transfer Station

Thursday, 2 February and Saturday, 4 February

• Mt Carbine Transfer Station

Thursday, 2 February and Sunday, 5 February

• Dimbulah, Julatten, Kuranda and Mareeba Transfer Stations

Saturday, 4 February and Sunday, 5 February

• Almaden, lrvinebank and Mt Molloy Transfer Stations

Saturday, 4 February and Sunday, 5 February

REWARDS

AUSTRALIA DAY AT MALANDA’S BIG PUB

Remembering Aunty Mary

EX-MAREEBA resident Mary Ethel (Wilson) Hugg sadly passed on January 17, 2023 at Gracewell - Eventide Lutheran Home in Denison at the age of 100 years.

Mary was born on August 30, 1922 to George Alfred and Mary Anna (Howe) Wilson in Innisfail, Australia. She was raised in the Anglican Church of Australia and also received her education in Australia.

The family moved to Mareeba around 1938 due to her father's health issues but regardless of his condition, George bought a dairy business in Atherton and supplied milk to the local townspeople. Mary started helping her father by assisting with the delivery drives to Mareeba and soon enough she was doing the route to Mareeba on her own.

Later in her life in Mareeba, she became a seamstress for her sister's business and throughout World War II she would help her mother sew insignia patches for the American GIs in town.

Without consulting their parents, Mary and her cousin, Myra joined Voluntary Aid Detachment (VAD).

VAD was a program started in 1909 to provide nursing care for military personnel throughout the British Empire.

Mary married Curtis A. Hugg on October 30, 1943 in Mareeba, Queensland, Australia.

Curtis was one of the American GI's who caught her eye as he played the piano alongside her during his time off.

It was Curtis meeting her father, George, and bonding over dairy farming that eventually brought the two together.

Following their marriage, she left the only home and family she had known, boarded a ship and moved to Iowa at the age of 22. The couple were blessed with three children: John, James and Mary.

Mary was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Denison and enjoyed quilting with others for church activities. She was also a member of Crazy Quilters Club.

Decorating the church altar with flowers was something she looked forward to every season. In her younger years, she was a girl scout and cub scout leader for her children.

She spent time working at Two Minys and also at the Sheltered Workshop at WESCO teaching sewing classes.

Over the years, many people brought their clothes to her home for alterations.

Along with her precise and steady handwork, she tended a large vegetable and flower garden for many years. She enjoyed reading and completing crossword puzzles.

Above all, she cherished spending time with her family and she was a proud grandma.

Mary will be dearly missed by her family that remains in Mareeba – The Braes, Hasties and Wilsons.

Grabyourtruelocalnewspaper atthefollowinglocations:

MAREEBA:

Mareeba News, Piagno’s News, Mareeba Discount Drug Store, Shell Mareeba Service Station, BP Mareeba, Mareeba IGA, Curcio’s Bakery, Mobil Service Station Mareeba, Termite, Portsmith Fuels, Biboohra Cash Store, Post Offi ce Centre Mareeba, Mareeba Leagues Club and all good business outlets.

ATHERTON:

Summers News, Phillips News, Mobile Atherton, Fresh St. Market IGA, Puma Service Station Atherton, Atherton International Club, Atherton Bakehouse, Café on Louise, Atherton Feed & Saddle Shed, Tableland Fertilizers Atherton, Community Services Tablelands, Atherton Visitor Centre, Carrington Hotel Atherton, Woolworths Atherton, Woolworths Servo Atherton and Cottage Cafe.

SOUTHERN TABLELANDS:

Tolga News, Mobil Service Station Tolga, Cash Store Walkamin, Malanda Spar, Caltex Malanda, Marano’s Malanda, Tobin’s Millaa Millaa, Yungaburra Foodworks, Yungaburra Pit Stop, Kairi Store, Herberton News, Herberton 5 Star, Wondecla Roadhouse, Ravenshoe News, Ravenshoe Hiland Bakery, Foodworks Ravenshoe, Ravenshoe Information Centre, Marano’s Ravenshoe, Tall Timbers Roadhouse, Mt Garnet Post Offi ce, Cornett’s Ravenshoe, Ravenshoe Information Centre, Malanda Real Estate, Millaa Millaa Real Estate, Malanda Visitor Centre, Eacham Fuels Malanda and Yungaburra Information Centre.

KURANDA:

Kuranda News, Kuranda Foodmart, Koah Service Station, Speewah Store, Kowrowa Cash Store and Kuranda BP Roadhouse.

DIMBULAH:

TGT Home Hardware, Dimbulah Post Offi ce, Bendigo Bank, Dimbulah One Stop and De Lai Fuel Distribution.

And numerous small businesses across the Tablelands, Gulf and Peninsula!

CHILLAGOE:

Almaden Hotel, Chillagoe Post Offi ce, Chillagoe General Store, Chillagoe Hotel and Post Offi ce Hotel.

COOKTOWN:

Cooktown IGA, Cooktown News, Sovereign Hotel, Caltex Cooktown, Palmer River Roadhouse, Cooktown Hotel, Lakeland Downs Hotel, Lakeland Roadhouse and Lakeland Coffee House.

MT MOLLOY: Mt Molloy Post Offi ce and Mt Molloy Store.

KARUMBA:

Post Offi ce Karumba, Karumba Pharmacy and Carpentaria Fuels.

GEORGETOWN:

Ampol Roadhouse, Midway Caravan Park and Georgetown Hospital.

NORMANTON: One Stop Shop, Normanton Trader and Garden Café.

MT SURPRISE:

Post Offi ce and Mt Surprise Service Station.

CROYDON: Gulf Gate Roadhouse and Croydon General Store.

EINASLEIGH: Post Offi ce and Einasleigh Council.

FORSAYTH: Store and Post Offi ce and Goldfield Tavern.

MOSSMAN: Port Douglas IGA and Mossman News.

CAIRNS: Smithfield News (Shopping Centre), Cairns Central Nextra News, Clifton Beach Newsagency and Trinity Beach News.

INNISFAIL: Larsen’s Newsagency and The Book Centre.

Mary Hugg passed away on January 17, 2023 at Gracewell - Eventide Lutheran Home in Denison at the age of 100 years.

The annual celebration at the Big Pub Malanda featured “Aussie” events like toad racing and thongthrowing, and the crowning of “Miss Aussie” and “Best Bogan” as well as music and face painting.

Dakota Ball with an aussie Icon, a 1974 HQ Holden.

Malanda Bogans Darren Ball, Trevor Ball, Anthony Ball.

Thong Throwing champ Cameron Avis. Khy Allen got into the spirit and dressed to impress.

Friends Julie, Lydia, Leonie, Donna got into the fun on Australia Day.

Will you be my Valentine?

LOOKING for the paw-fect valentines date this year? The Mareeba Animal Refuge is inviting pets and their owners to get their photos taken for a donation to the organisation.

The fundraiser will take place at Pets Domain in Mareeba with any pets welcomed to get pictures taken at their photobooth.

Staff member Felicity Pollard said events such as these helped the refuge to fund activities that rehabilitate and rehome pets and maintain the facility.

“Valentine’s day is a great time for fundraising

Talk to shine light on digging animals

MOST of us have seen various holes in the ground and wondered what animal might have produced the disturbance, but a free talk to be held on Thursday night at the Big Pub at Malanda will provide the answers.

Dr Leonie Valentine is a conservation scientist who loves wildlife and the complex interactions between species and ecosystems.

She manages the Species Conservation team for WWF-Australia and will be presenting the first Tree Kangaroo and Mammal Group talk for 2023 on Thursday night.

Dr Valentine says we commonly encounter bandicoot diggings but there are also many other species who create soil surface disturbance.

“The list of digging mammals is quite long and the results from their work may be quite surprising,” she said.

“From tiny subterranean marsupial moles to the robust hairy-nosed wombats, digging mammals once occurred right across the Australian mainland, and on many islands, too.

“In the last 200 years, most of Australia’s unique digging mammals, including many bandicoots, bettongs and potoroos, have undergone drastic population reductions and range declines due to habitat loss, predation by cats and foxes and altered fire regimes.”

But recent conservation efforts have been directed at returning some of the Australia’s threatened mammal species to fenced reserves and offshore islands.

Anyone interested in attending are welcome to come along to the Big Pub at Malanda at 7.30pm.

as people are always looking for things to do and we have had great success with our photobooth before,” she said.

“People can bring their pets in and get a photo either on their device or one of ours for a donation. They can donate however much they want to us.”

All animals must be on a lead or safely hand held to get their photos taken.

The photo booth will be open on Saturday 11 February from 10am to 2pm and Sunday 12 February from 10am to 12pm at Pets Domain on Rankin Street in Mareeba.

PICTURED: Felicity Pollard and a resident puppy Una are ready for Valentine’s Day.

Non-Executive Member Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Board

Contribute to the Torres and Cape community to deliver exceptional healthcare

• Member opportunity for the Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Board

• Part-time statutory appointment commencing approx. July 2023

• Diverse skills and experience required

The Opportunity

The Queensland Government delivers free universal healthcare to five million Queenslanders through Queensland Health. The Queensland Government is investing a record $23.6 billion into healthcare.

The Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Board (HHB) is one of 16 statewide boards and provides governance to the Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service (HHS). The Torres and Cape HHS delivers hospital and healthcare services across Cape York and the Northern Peninsula Area, including 18 islands in the Torres Straits. All 16 HHBs, including the Torres and Cape HHB, are accountable to the Minister for Health and Ambulance Services and must perform their functions in accordance with the Hospital and Health Boards Act 2011

Board members are community leaders and have the ability to contribute to shaping the future of health care in the region for which they are responsible, whilst enhancing the efficient, effective and sustainable delivery of health services.

Applications

The Queensland Government is seeking applications from appropriately experienced community members to fill a vacancy on the Torres and Cape HHB. Community members are being sought from the Torres and Cape region and from throughout the state to be on the board. To be successful in this role, you:

• are ready and able to add value to the Board through your skills, knowledge and experience, including but not limited to any of the following areas of expertise: health management; business management; financial management; human resource management; clinical expertise; legal expertise; primary healthcare; health consumer and community engagement; and persons with skills, knowledge and experience in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health and community issues

• are able to analyse, critically assess and drive performance

• have the confidence and connections to strengthen community engagement and collaborative partnerships

• are a leader who thinks strategically, embodies personal integrity, has political astuteness, commercial acumen, resilience and are a team player

• are available to travel to Torres and Cape HHS communities if you are located outside the region. Applications are to be submitted online. For an information pack and instructions on how to submit your application please visit https://edenritchie.com.au/hhb-appointment/

These opportunities are remunerated in accordance with Queensland Government guidelines. We strongly encourage First Nations people, women, people with expertise in multiculturalism, young people, and people with disabilities to apply. A range of probity checks will be undertaken for persons being considered for appointment.

Applications close midnight, Friday 10 February 2023.

Should you wish to receive assistance on submitting your expression of interest, please contact Eden Ritchie Recruitment via Justine Eden on 0412 156 930 or Kim Ritchie on 0412 156 920.

Burrowing Bettong, once widespread across the continent. Photo Bryony Palmer.

Queensland’s islands and reefs

Cairns to Brisbane

8 nights

Departs 5 November 2023

Aboard Le Lapérouse

Wilderness from Greenland to the East Coast of Canada

Kangerlussuaq to Saint Pierre Island

14 nights

Departs 25 August 2024

Aboard Le Lyrial

Includes flight Paris to Kangerlussuaq plus Transfers & Flight Saint Pierre And Miquelon to Montreal

10 nights

Why travel with

Award-winning Small-Ship Luxury Expeditions & Cruises

Maximum of only 132 staterooms

Front Row Seat 95% of staterooms featuring their own balcony

Expert Guides

Zodiac® & shore excursions with expedition team included*

Onboard Entertainment

Spa, fitness centre, theatre, lounges, pool, outdoor bar*

French luxury brands on board Hermès, Ladurée, Lenôtre, Charles Heidsieck, Sothys & more

All-Inclusive

All meals & Open Bar* included on board

World Class Dining

Two world-class restaurants to choose from 24-hour Room Service

Complimentary in all staterooms & suites

Stay Connected Complimentary Unlimited Wi-Fi

Let the Travel Experience Dream Team take you there

THE world is moving again and nobody is more excited about that than the holiday professionals at Mareeba and Atherton's Travel Experience.

Business owner and managing director, Uli Lenitschek said both her offices were now open for business with an enthusiastic new team of focused consultants, just waiting to help design and deliver your dream holiday.

"Our new 'dream team,' Mannuela Arcidiacono, Antonella Stabile, Mike Dolby and Kimba Daley are enjoying bringing their individual strengths and personalities to their roles" Uli said.

"We have a new style of operation, involving one on one appointments, promising our clients next level personalised care. By booking with us, we can dedicate ourselves to ensuring you achieve your best possible holiday experience. We will be here supporting you until you arrive safely home."

When asked to share the travel goals that light them up, the team described everything from gazing into Mona Lisa's famous eyes in the Louvre, riding Icelandic horses out from Reykjavik and roughing it in the wild like a Viking, to hanging with the majestic elephants and big cats in Africa's magical Maasai Mara and finishing a Covid-interrupted attempt at walking the Camino de Santiago in Spain. Australians love overseas

travel and nearly 70% of us have visited up to 10 countries, but there are 185 more to be seen and experienced. Uli believes living life without travel is like existing without chocolate and after the last few years, that first bite promises to be euphoric and seriously addictive.

Whether you travel to escape the day to day, to explore, relax, be transformed or just to eat fabulous international cuisine, travel offers freedoms and opportunities for spontaneity and personal growth we rarely encounter at home.

With decades of experience and a bundle of industry awards under her belt, there is not much Uli doesn't know about travel. "Our team has enjoyed every corner of the globe, we specialise in 'off-the-beaten track' experiences and have personal contacts all around the world.

Amazing upcoming holiday experiences include a potentially life-changing small group African tour, staying in private lodges, a stunning 17 day Antarctica experience and a fun and festival packed celebration of Uli's home town, Bavaria in July.

Growing demand means more passionate and ideally, experienced staff are required. As the team grows, so will the Mareeba opening hours, currently operating Monday, Wednesday and Thursday from 9am to 4pm.

Two new movies

WITH two great movies coming to the Majestic Theatre in Malanda this week, it gives patrons a wonderful opportunity to see some fine cinema entertainment.

First up is the new mystery thriller “Knock At The Cabin” for those who enjoy suspense.

Next is the new historical comedy drama “Babylon” starring top Australian actor Margot Robbie and Brad Pitt. This movie is all about the exciting, pulsating Los Angeles and Hollywood movie go round of the 20’s and 30’s, with all its opulence and high living.

From Oscar winning director Damien Chazelle, it promises to be an interesting and entertaining story.

The comedy drama “A Man Called Otto” with Tom Hanks, shows one last time on Saturday.

For more information and session times, go to www.majestictheatre.com.au

Art on Barron is back

SPOTS are now available for this year’s Art on the Barron workshop which is set to kick off on Monday 8 May.

The five day workshop is hosted every year in Mareeba and welcomes artist from all areas and all levels of expertise to come along and learn from the experts.

This year, participants can learn how create portraits with oil paint with Andrew Bonneae, draw portraits from a costumed model with Manuela Pilz, mixed media techniques on canvas with Tricia Reust, coloured pencil techniques and surfaces with Jan Lawnikanis, painting with fresh perspectives with Don Milne and watercolour Australian natural beauty with Bruce Griffiths.

To register for this year’s event, visit www.artonthebarron.com

It’s time to celebrate ladies

This year, The Express Newspaper will be hosting our inaugural International Women's Day breakfast to celebrate the amazing things women do every day.

This year’s theme is embracing equity and we are welcoming people from across the region to come together and celebrate women's achievements, raise awareness about discrimination and take action to drive gender parity.

The breakfast will be held at the Mareeba Leagues Club on 8 March (International Women's Day) from 7am to 9am.

Included in the $40 ticket price will be a full buffet breakfast, inspirational guest speakers Jo Whitton (CEO of Quirky Cooking) and Briana Enoch (Designer of Jarawee) and local musician Aurelle Brunjes will provide the entertainment.

Jo Whitton is a Malanda mum who helped her son's mental health and OCD

with gut healing and has shared her journey through her several books.

Briana Enoch is a local First Nations woman who has incorporated culture into fashion, with her label Jarawee catching the eyes of many - including Jimmy Choo and Australian Fashion Week.

The Express managing director Carl Portella is pleased to be hosting this event in the region and welcomes every one to join in.

“International Women’s Day is a day to recognised and celebrate the amazing

New sunset dining opens

ONE of the best views on the Tablelands, great Italian cuisine and wonderful live local entertainment will be on offer at the Atherton International Club this Sunday.

This will be the first event held in the club’s new Sunset Deck which was part of the facility’s major upgrade completed late last year.

The view from the room is amazing and worth a trip to the newly re-

furbished club.

Starting at 5pm, the event will feature local musician Ben Wilson who is well known to locals and entertains with a variety of songs, accompanied by acoustic guitar or banjo.

Patrons can order dinner from the new menu by Paesano which includes a variety of pizzas, pastas, parmies, antipasto and salads. Entry is free. To book, call 4091 4970.

work of women within our community,” he said.

“This year's event will be held in Mareeba, but we hope to bring it to other areas of our readership in the future.”

All proceeds from this event will go to Tablelands Sexual Assault Service (TSAS) to help fund the incredible work they do in the community.

TSAS provides sexual assault counselling for all children and young people, and non-offending women and men, as well as community education and is a very worthy cause for this year’s event.

We are extending our invite to the amazing women and men of our region to join us for a morning of inspiration and networking.

Book your ticket today at www.trybooking.com/CFLCC

AN EVENT COMING

Briana

PHOTO: Brisbane Fashion Week.

Held at the Millaa Millaa Lions Park and hosted by the local Lions Club, the fun day out included food and drinks, live music, a best dressed bogan comp and lots of aussie fun for all.

Des Pascoe dressed for the occasion and enjoyed a coldie at the event.

Brian Scott flies the flag.

Millaa Millaa “Bogans” Jayden and Cat Venz took part in the “Best Bogan” competition.

Thong Thrower Carl Bird was up for the challenge.

Stella Juhas was dressed to suit the Australia Day event at Millaa Millaa.

ON LANDthe

Mabi projects complete at Wongabel

COMMUNITY tree plantings

Biosecurity funding for early detection

FEDERAL funding of $1 million over the next two years will be used to boost the capacity for the early detection of biosecurity threats such as lumpy skin disease and foot-and-mouth disease.

adjacent to Wongabel State

Forest over two Saturdays in January have helped Barron Catchment Care finalise the delivery of three projects increasing the vegetation extend of the unique but critically endangered Mabi community with approximately two hectares.

Two of the projects were funded through the Queensland Government’s Community Sustainability Action Grant Program (Conservation and Community Climate Action Program), while one of the plantings was part of a project that received funding from the Australian Government’s Planting Trees for The Queen’s Jubilee Program, with a commemorative plaque placed at the site.

A community event was held in October to commemorate the Queen’s Jubilee and raise community awareness around Mabi forest.

Barron Catchment Care engaged a contractor to do work on site preparation, sourcing, transporting and allocating the trees

and doing maintenance for the plantings.

QPWS and Treat (Trees for Evelyn and Atherton Tablelands) provided further support with their contributions to initial site preparation, supply of trees and organising the community plantings.

“Whilst Barron Catchment Care might be mostly known for its projects in weed, pest, land and water management, it also has been working on many projects over the years aiming to restore and revegetate native vegetation on cleared and degraded land,” Barron Catchment Care chair Brian Down said.

“These projects contribute to our vision of maintaining and enhancing the economic, ecological, and cultural values of the Barron River Catchment.”

Community members interested in participating in future revegetation events can get in touch with Barron Catchment Care on info@barronrivercatchment.org.au or on TREAT’s website and Facebook page.

Queensland, in partnership with the Northern Territory and Western Australia, will have even stronger surveillance and preparedness for emergency animal diseases with a total of $4.33 million in federal funding.

Northern Australia is at the forefront of biosecurity threats, and on alert following the detection of foot-and-mouth disease and lumpy skin disease in Indonesia last year.

The north also requires a unique approach to stakeholder engagement given the complex range of livestock industry stakeholders operating in isolated and remote regions.

Minister for Agricultural Industry Development and Fisheries and Minister for Rural Communities Mark Furner said Queensland’s share would be $1 million over two years, which would help to maximise resources and enhance the State’s capability.

“We’ll be investing the money to boost early detection capacity with an initial focus on foot-and-mouth disease and lumpy skin disease,” he said.

“The funding supports the newlyestablished Northern Australian Coordination Network, which brings together Queensland, Northern Territory and Western Australian governments in partnership

with key industries and local communities.

“Queensland’s contribution will be a partnership with the Queensland Government, AgForce, James Cook University and the Federal Government.”

Federal Agriculture Minister Murray Watt said while Australia remained free from lumpy skin disease and foot-andmouth disease, the country must continue to stay alert to the risks.

“Our proximity to Southeast Asia, where these diseases are present, poses an increased risk of an outbreak occurring here, particularly in Northern Australia,” he said.

“The network will support preparedness activities by partnering with industry groups on the ground to maximise available resources, enhance communication and training, and boost our foot-andmouth disease and lumpy skin disease surveillance efforts.”

AgForce CEO Michael Guerin said the continuation of strong and collaborative work with government and the broader community was critical in providing best protections and outcomes for industry amidst the ongoing biosecurity challenges. “AgForce welcomes the chance to be a strong ongoing contributor to this work,” he said.

Wolfram mine set for new lease on life

AN abandoned Far North Queensland mining area is one step closer to coming back to life – creating more good jobs for regional Queenslanders in the burgeoning critical minerals industry.

Resources Minister Scott Stewart said tenders have been called for resource exploration activities across a 480 square kilometre area, which includes the former Wolfram Camp mine

“Queensland’s long history of resources activity has left a legacy of abandoned mines across the state but, thanks to advancing technology and changing market demands, some of these mines have the potential to once again become commercial operations,” Mr Stewart said.

“After consulting with industry groups, miners, explorers and local representatives last

year, it was clear there was great interest in restarting resource activities at the abandoned Wolfram Camp mine.

“This project is a pilot that could potentially see more of our abandoned mine sites around the state transformed from a liability to an asset – once more generating good jobs and royalties for all Queenslanders.

“Those royalties can also help offset the cost of managing existing, abandoned mines, while the government has also acted to prevent future issues with tighter requirements for progressive mine rehabilitation.”

Wolfram Camp is named for wolframite – an important primary ore of tungsten which miners have been extracting from the site since the 19th century.

ON LANDthe

Bountiful harvest at Brazzale’s

FRUIT hangs heavy on the mango trees of Brazzale’s Premium Mangoes as the local family prepares to send out hundreds of thousands of mangoes to the southern markets despite the current wet weather.

The mango season on the Brazzale Farms typically runs from September to March with the farm growing five different varieties of

mangoes including the Palmer.

While mangoes are not typically known for their outlandish colours or hue, Palmer’s are renowned for the beautiful purple hue they exude.

“They’re very pretty and nice eating mangoes because the flavour is very good,” Noalene Brazzale said.

KP and Keitt are the most boun-

$54,500 + GST

tiful varieties with roughly 60,000 trays being harvested each season, Calipso and Brooke are the other two varieties which are grown.

“The current weather is affecting our spray program and we haven’t been able to get in and spray like we usually do,” Mrs Brazzale said.

“So far the fruit is holding up okay but if the rain continues there

will be a lot of rain spot damage to the fruit but overall what we have been packing is quite good.”

This year the farm is on track to hit a record high with roughly 150,000 trays of mangoes being packed and shipped off to the Sydney and Melbourne markets, some branded Brazzale’s Premium Mangoes and others Outback Mangoes.

High

rates hot talk for Ag Committee

THE impact high rates are having on farmers has been the main topic of conversation at the first two meetings of Tablelands Regional Council’s new Agricultural Advisory Committee.

Chair Cr David Clifton said the committee had made a good start and he was buoyed by what had happened so far.

“The Agricultural Advisory Committee has now had two meetings and is making an attempted, but so far successful, start in creating a relationship and beginning to understand some of the problems facing agriculture,” he said.

Deputy Mayor Cr Kevin Cardew agreed the committee was working to date and had the potential to be an effective way to communicate with the industry and get direct feedback.

“The committee is coming along pretty good and I have had some positive feedback from some of the committee members,” he said.

“If we can make it work, it will be a great asset for us and a real conduit to the agricultural community.”

Last year, around 80 farmers gathered to protest constant increases in their rates, but council cited significantly higher land valuations for the rate rises. Mayor Rod Marti then gave an assurance that council would look at changing the rating categories of F and G to try to lessen the impact of the valuations.

That exercise is underway and members of the Agricultural Advisory Committee had the opportunity at its second meeting to engage with consultants, The AEC Group, about the report they are preparing on the differential rating categories.

Noalene Brazzale from Brazzale Premium Mangoes with some of the beautifully coloured Palmer variety mangoes which are grown on their Mutchilba farm.

Tragedy if the Voice to Parliament fails

I WOULD like to thank Ms Prescott and Messrs Jones and English for their recent letters regarding the referendum on a proposed “Voice to Parliament” for Indigenous Australians.

Mr Jones quotes the constitutional changes from 1967, 50 years ago. Constitutional change provides a framework from which the parliament of the day develops legislation. This is where the detail of policy will be essential for better outcomes for Indigenous Australians. Not in the Constitution.

Ms Prescott is concerned about money being “wasted” by Indigenous departments and organisations and calls for them to be “cleaned out”. This “white fellas know best” attitude is grossly patronising and provides the precise reason why Indigenous people need a say in matters that affect them via a representative body to Federal Parliament but does not have a veto over the decisions of parliament

Given the level of misrepresentation and misinformation of Australian history since colonisation, I agree that education is fundamental to moving all people forward. Perhaps Mr English could educate himself on the adverse effects of colonisation on First Nations people and ways to resolve these issues.

Mr English in reference to the US mentions, “they now occupy a fair share of all positions available to them” and “they have provided one President”. Who are “they” and who is the one president “they” have provided?

Further, there is no proposal to establish another level of government, “a third chamber”. This is a nonsense argument put forward by the National Party. The Voice will offer advice and that advice may be accepted or rejected by the parliament of the day.

The real travesty would be for the Voice

proposal to fail. For the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander population to continue to have significantly lower life expectancy, higher rates of poverty and incarceration and lower educational and health outcomes than the majority of Australians.

These are not lifestyle choices. By choosing to promote these same old lies, the status quo will be maintained and all Australians will be poor for it.

D. Heers BARRINE

He’s not my Member

ONCE again, our local Federal member has expressed views (Letters to the Editor 18/01/2023 – Pell’s death reinforces Christian persecution) that demonstrate poor taste, are divisive in the extreme and display no empathy for survivors of child sexual abuse, including many constituents in the electorate he purports to represent.

Lest we forget, a whiff of the odious dogged Pell to the end. Pell’s Royal Commission testimony contained an admission that he did little to stop child sexual abuse; Pell chose to attend Court supporting a known paedophile in Gerald Ridsdale; and Pell manufactured the Melbourne Response to silence victims and protect the church.

If these are the actions of (in our member’s words) a “good and powerful” man “chosen to overcome the dreadful renaissance-type problems” (whatever that means), little wonder Christianity is in decline across the western world.

Colours are pinned to the member’s mast as he goes on to defend, (i) Peter Hollingsworth, another senior Christian churchman who chose to support a predatory priest but not his young victim, (ii) Israel Folau, whose “evangelical” words of intolerance and hate belong strictly in the privacy of his own home, and (iii) his “Manly Heroes” who similarly prefer persecution over acceptance, staunchly holding to the credo that might is right.

But, as Seneca the Younger observed over 2000 years ago, “religion is regarded by the common people as true, by the wise as false, and by the rulers as useful”.

Not content with defending the indefensible, the member then takes aim at the “fascist state of Victoria” and “pygmy” Dan Andrews because “there are very few people in Australian history that have banned people for demonstrating”.

Our local member obviously needs reminding that he was a member of BjelkePetersen’s government that on 4 September 1977 proclaimed, “the day of the political street march is over ... Don’t bother to apply for a permit. You won’t get one. That’s government policy now”. And it was; such is the inconvenient truth – pot, kettle, black?

Our local member has never been one to let truth get in the way of a good story. His lame half-truths and mangled English might tickle some and embolden others.

But, many will simply shake their heads in despair, wondering how any person in his position can display such duplicity, divisiveness and blind stupidity. He’s not my member.

N.I.J Tucker MALANDA

Here we go again!

THE Mareeba Bypass was proposed around 50 years ago around the time the high level bridge over the Barron River was built and the bypass to Atherton constructed.

Since then. there have been studies, consultations, reviews, surveys and surveyings and multiple promises made, all to no avail.

This will be no different. Millions have been and are being spent and wasted pretending to be doing something.

TMR knows that this bypass will not be built. We know that TMR knows that it will not be built.

I dare you to prove me wrong.

Roger Piagno MAREEBA

Protect your private information

BY KRISTYN LENNON

QUEENSLANDERS are among the millions of Australians who have been affected by recent high-profile data breaches, such as those involving Medibank and Optus.

These data breaches have left many customers worried about the potential for their personal information to end up in the hands of hackers.

The breaches have also raised important questions about Australia’s national Privacy Act, which is in the process of being reformed.

Across Australia, the Privacy Act is the main piece of law protecting the handling of personal information in the federal public sector and in the private sector.

The rules say entities can only use personal information for the purpose for which they are collected, and they must protect personal information that they hold from misuse.

States and territories also have their own privacy rules for their public sectors.

Here in Queensland, a law called the In-

formation Privacy Act contains the privacy rules that apply to Queensland government agencies.

Like the national Privacy Act, these Queensland laws regulate how agencies in our state collect, store, use and disclose personal information.

Agencies must only collect personal information for a legitimate purpose, and should tell you why they are collecting it, what it will be used for and whether it will be given to anyone outside the agency.

These privacy laws apply to all Queensland government agencies including departments, public authorities and local government, but there are some exceptions, for example some law enforcement functions.

To help protect your privacy, you should read the privacy policy or collection notice from the organisation that is handling your personal information. If you don’t understand it, ask them to explain.

Similarly, you should also ask questions if you don’t think an organisation needs to collect the personal information they are seeking from you.

If you think your privacy rights have been breached, your first complaint should be with the agency that you believe has breached your privacy. The agency’s privacy policy should explain what you need to do to make a complaint.

If you don’t receive a response within a reasonable amount of time, or aren’t satisfied with the agency’s response, you can make a formal written complaint to either the Australian or Queensland Office of the Information Commissioner (whichever is the relevant overseeing body).

If these offices decide to investigate your complaint, possible outcomes could include taking steps to address the matter, a fine, compensation or an apology.

Kristyn Lennon is a Cairns-based lawyer who heads Maurice Blackburn’s Tablelands office. This legal information is general in nature and should not be regarded as specific legal advice. If you have a legal question you would like Kristyn to answer you can contact her at klennon@mauriceblackburn.com.au

The debate of whether we should celebrate our national day on 26 January emerged again last week. The Express asked its readers their views on whether Australia Day should remain on that date...

Read a book the history of it and you'll see why that date was chosen and yes I am aboriginal I hate to think what would've happened to our ancestors if the Japanese would've invaded Australia – Sharon Bowyang

Yes and teach in school the true meaning of the 26 January 1949. Aussie Aussie Aussie – Doreen Mortimore

I don't care what day it's on! I celebrate the coming together of all Australians and new Australians making a pledge to our great country – Gayle Samuel

As an immigrant to this amazing country, I celebrate Australia Day. Yes, celebrate! I acknowledge the good and bad but this country has a spirit and acceptance that rewards loyalty to the flag, My service in the RAN was but a small part in repaying the debt I owe for allowing me to be a citizen. I am Australian in body, mind and soul – Ken Carey

Yes it should. Nothing we do will ever be enough. We don't change Christmas or Easter or anything else for the other beliefs. Like everything you don't want to celebrate or join in don't – Veronica Beckham

Yes we are celebrating this wonderful country we live in. We are ALL Australians regardless of race, gender or ethnic background – Marcel C Gueho

26th January 1949 was when the Nationality and Citizenship Act 1948 was passed, that broke us away from being British Citizens. That sounds like a good date to celebrate being Australian – Wendy Sheldrake Luscombe No! We should not celebrate at all. It should be a day of sorrow. Keep it a public holiday and call it 'Injustice Day'. Educate yourselves on the uncomfortable truth. Uncover your eyes, ears and start speaking about the correct narrative for the terrible atrocities committed. Educate yourselves because many are not taught this truth at school. You could watch the free documentary on SBS on Demand, The Australian Wars. Rachel Perkins journeys across the country to explore the bloody battles fought on Australian soil and the war that established the Australian nation, seeking to change the narrative of the nation –Amanda Torrisi

Most definitely, it's the day that we became a nation in our own right – Janet Backhouse

I celebrate it every morning with thankfulness that I live here. I have never in 70 Years celebrated on 26th Jan and probably never – Jenny Murphy

Anyone who lives in Australia and accepts what Australia provides for them should be proud to celebrate Australia day 26th January as it has been this way for many many moons. Aussie Aussie Aussie – Julie Thomas Definitely on the 26th why change it whats it going to achieve just split the nation further its like independence day the day we broke from British law. One people one nation – Patrick Dayes

The Express posts news stories on our Facebook page every week. We appreciate your comments which may be used in this column.

PROPERTY

houses l land l units l investments l acreage l farms l rentals

Queenslander styling in a brand new build

YOU can’t beat the warmth & charm of a timber home and this 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom residence offers a traditional Queenslander feel encompassed in a stunning new build.

The quality of construction is evident throughout with the home presenting as new with the following attributes:

• Stunning polished timber floors throughout

• Split system air-

conditioning & LED lighting throughout

• Sizeable open plan living area

• 3 generous bedrooms with built-in robes, master with ensuite, WIR & deck access

• Striking central kitchen with breakfast bar, corner pantry & stainless steel appliances including dishwasher

• Generous main

22 Main Street, Atherton

Phone: 4091 7111

bathroom, fully tiled to the ceiling with freestanding plunge bath

• Stylish his & hers ensuite, fully tiled to the ceiling

• Laundry with built-in cabinetry

• Laundry Linen & hallway storage cupboards

• Sizeable rear timber entertaining deck that wraps around the right hand side

• Quality fixtures & fittings

+ tinted windows & security screens throughout

• 1,000m2 allotment with colourbond fencing completed to the lefthand side & rear fencing partly completed + shed concrete slab in place

• Located in Kenneally Estate, only 5 minutes to Mareeba town centre

It’s the perfect opportunity to secure a beautiful near new home that’s almost

completed.

Don’t delay – Inspection is highly recommended.

Open for inspection this Saturday from 10am to 11am.

For further information or to arrange a private inspection of this Mareeba home, please call exclusive agent Joe Torrisi on 0417 700 468.

Address: 15 Summer Street, MAREEBA

Price: Offers Over $480,000

Agent: EXCLUSIVE to Joe Torrisi Joe Torrisi Real Estate

Contact: 0417 700 468

Atherton

PRIVATE RURAL LIVING

Lake Eacham

• Set on 1.18 hectares

• 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom home

• Deck on 3 sides of home

• Large 4 bay shed

• Paddocks

• Bore water + water tank

$733,000 L21659892

Suzey Whitby 0438 090 306

WATER, VIEWS & LOCATION

East Palmerston

• Set on 87.88 hectares

• Fertile pastures

• Fenced into 2 paddocks

• Good carrying capacity

• Natural water from 3 springs

• Picturesque area

$1,700,000 L13944965

Morgan Brennan 0407 730 450

ROOM TO MOVE

Malanda

• Set on 6.35 hectares

• 3 bedroom updated block home

• Open plan with timber floors

• Deck + patio area

• Fenced into paddocks

• Stables + yards

Offers Over $850,000 L21424371

Suzey Whitby 0438 090 306

WHAT MORE COULD YOU ASK FOR?

Upper Barron

• 4.26 hectares of lush pastures

• Modern 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms

• Large living and dining areas

• 3 paddocks and good fencing

• Rainwater storage and solar

• Sheds: 18m x 10m and 12m x 10m

Offers Invited L18447858

Morgan Brennan 0407 730 450

Margaret Black: Principal www.raywhiteruralatherton.com.au

houses l land l units l investments l acreage l farms l rentals

Property gold – Atherton

SOLID masonry block homes from the 1980's have stood the test of time.

They provide an excellent base for adding modern updates and colours to achieve your home base or enrichen your investment portfolio.

This home is within walking distance to Atherton CBD, the Primary School

and the High School and has a lovely open aspect onto a council park.

The internal layout offers a practical design, large kitchen and the added bonus of an extra room which could provide a 4th bedroom or 2nd living area.

FEATURES INCLUDE;

• Open plan living and

dining

• Large kitchen with generous storage and bench space

• 3 bedrooms

• Bathroom has separate shower and bathtub

• Separate toilet

• Internal laundry

• Open carport

• Security screens

throughout • W.I.W.O with all furnishings included

• Garden Sheds

• 809m2 low maintenance block.

To arrange a suitable inspection time or for more information on this home, please contact Exclusive

Marketing Agent Collette Rowston from Raine & Horne Atherton on 0419 733 712.

Address: 19 Pink Street, ATHERTON

Price: $349,000

Agent: EXCLUSIVE to Collette Rowston Raine & Horne Atherton

Contact: 0419 733 712

Lakeside elegance

rooms with an ensuite in the main bedroom.

elevation allows for lovely lake breezes captured from the front patio and into the spacious living room. E ntertaining is easy with the kitchen serving straight onto the rear patio.

There are 3 sizable bed-

Tiled double lock up garage and a 4 x 6m (approx.) shed located on the rear of the property for all the extras. Situated in a cul-de-sac of quality homes just a 200 metre walk to Lake Tinaroo.

For more information on this Yungaburra home, call Trisha Jackson at Professionals Atherton. Phone 4091 3955 or 0419 1833 145 anytime. To view more photos of this property, visit athertonrealestate.com.au

If it’s an elegant home at Lakeside you’re after then look no further

PROPERTY

l farms l rentals

ONLY five years young is this spacious and immaculately presented as new home sitting on an established 800sqm allotment and is complete with a 7.5x5m Colourbond shed with easy vehicle access through side gates making parking your caravan, boat or trailer a breeze.

The Property Features

• 4 Good Sized Carpeted Bedrooms – 3 With Built-In

Cupboards While The Master Suite Is Complete With A Walk-In Wardrobe & Private Ensuite.

• Reverse Cycle A/C Units In All Bedrooms & Liv-

Value for money in Atherton

TAKE a drive and discover the lovely neighbourhood surrounding this modern family home.

This property boasts Mazlin Creek frontage on the rear boundary creating a tranquil escape in your own backyard and the peace of mind knowing you will never have rear neighbours. Features of the family home include:

• Open plan kitchen, dining & living rooms with direct access to the patio from both the dining and living

room.

• Modern kitchen with new electric cooktop & oven, large pantry, dishwasher and breakfast bar.

• Four bedrooms, all with built-in's; master including an ensuite.

• Main bathroom with a bathtub, shower & vanity; separate toilet

• Internal laundry is conveniently located near the kitchen with built in cabinetry & direct access to the patio.

• Double garage with

remote panel lift door, the garage also provides vehicle access to the back yard through a rear roller door.

• The outdoor living area is generous in size and the spacious backyard is fully fenced with the convenience of a garden shed.

• Security screens and fully tiled throughout with a sealed driveway.

• Air-conditioned in the Master bedroom and living area

The property has recently had the following additions:

• 6.6kW solar system and 5kW inverter

• New Electric hot water system

• New shower screens in both bathrooms

• New vanities in both bathrooms

• Security screen on front door

• Triple locks and new screens on all sliding screen doors

• Plantation shutters to front bedrooms

• Roller blinds on the other 2 bedrooms

• Awnings to back patio and western window

• Internal & external paint including walls, gutters, front fence, gates & garden shed.

• New electric cooktop and oven

• Garden beds with irrigation

• LED lights internally

• New ceiling fan in main bedroom

Contact Elders Real Estate Tablelands agents Michelle Raso and Shellie Nightingale for more information.

Address: 55 Danzer Drive, ATHERTON

Price: Contact Agent

Agent: Michelle Raso or Shellie Nightingale Elders Real Estate Malanda

Contact: 0428 116 136 or 0429 966 038

Did someone say duplex?

IF you are looking for a solid, multi-unit investment that will really boost your portfolio, then look no further and welcome to number 2 Fenwick Street, Mareeba!

Situated on a super low maintenance 716m2 allotment, this duplex (2 units) has been built with convenience and low maintenance in mind. Constructed of masonry block internal and external walls it will be a solid investment for your future.

Located only a few minutes from the Mareeba CBD, with Mareeba State High School just around the corner and the Mareeba Tennis Club and Borzi Park just across the road, your tenants will have the convenience of being close to everything.

The two units are almost identical, with a few defining features that set them apart from each other.

Each Unit Features:

• 3 Bedrooms, 1 Bathroom, separate toilet, internal laundry

• Good kitchen with plenty of cupboard space

• Open plan living, dining & kitchen serviced by split system air-conditioner

• Front patio & 1 single carport

• Dividing privacy fence between units at the rear

• Garden shed, concrete path around the unit

• Low maintenance, concrete block construction, security screens on all windows & doors

• Currently tenanted at $320 (unit 1) and $300 (unit 2) per week

The only differences between them are:

• Unit 2 has a fully fenced back yard.

• Unit 1 has a single garden shed and unit 2 has a double-size garden shed

• Unit 1 has an additional air-conditioner in the master bedroom

• Unit 1 has built-in wardrobes in all rooms, unit 2 has built-in wardrobes in two rooms

• Unit 1 has carpet to

bedrooms, Unit 2 has vinyl flooring to bedrooms

This Duplex will not last long in this market, so don't miss out of this great opportunity to own a great invest-

ment. Give exclusive Agent Remo Esposito a call on 0401 969 473 for more information.

Address: 2 Fenwick Street, MAREEBA

Price: $550,000

Agent: EXCLUSIVE to Remo Esposito Central Realty Mareeba

Contact: 0401 969 473 or 4092 2232

Position plus potential

WHY I ASKED KAREN FROM AREA REAL

Make it yours

Set in a quiet neighbourhood of Atherton sits this gem waiting for its next owner.

Making your way through a newly constructed fence, the home showcases nice street appeal with added privacy & security.

The tiled, open plan living greets you upon enter-

ing, which then leads you to a lovely kitchen with a galley style layout & walk-in pantry.

Four bedrooms in total with two housing built-ins & the master showcasing a walk-in robe as well as a good sized ensuite.

There is a covered patio leading from the living & din-

ing area, great for entertaining.

A large 2 bay shed with a mezzanine and tandem carport offers great space to store all the toys, plus drive through access means you can park the boat or caravan.

An array of fruit trees, 2

to the undercover area

ARE you looking for your first home or looking for a change, or maybe your just wanting to expand your investment portfolio?

This 2-bedroom home situated only moments from the township of Normanton is well worth your inspection.

Tiles flow through the home, air-conditioning to keep you cool through those warmer months and ceiling fans throughout. The Kitchen is well appointed and has plenty of storage.

There is a massive entertainment area off the house that connects to a rumpus room that is perfect for

someone who works from home, playroom or can be converted into a granny flat. The property is fully fenced and is just waiting for the new owners.

Special Features:

• Security Screens on Doors and Windows

• 3 Phase power outlet

• Under cover entertainment area

• Massive room attached

SOLD MORE LISTINGS WANTED!

• Established gardens

• Veranda

• Water tank that is plumbed into the Kitchen

• Garden Shed

• Currently tenanted

Why not give Michael from Town to Country Realty a call to organise your inspection on 0417 118 618 or (07) 4097 6900.

Address: 4 Greenaway Street, NORMANTON

Price: $285,000

Agent: Michael English Town to Country Realty

Contact: 0417 118 618

MAREEBA

For local knowledge, dedicated service and exceptional results give Joe a call!

water tanks & 6.6kw solar system means you are on your way to self-sufficiency.

For more information on this Atherton property, contact Exclusive agent, Morgan Brennan, at Ray White Atherton on 0407 730 450 or (07) 4091 7111.

Address: ATHERTON

Price: Offers in the Low $600,000’s

Agent: EXCLUSIVE to Morgan Brennan Ray White Atherton

Contact: 0407 730 450 or 4091 7111

TAKE A BREAK

BIG WORD SEARCH CROSSWORD

Divine Office of the Western Christian Church (7)

19 to leave out or exclude, either intentionally or forgetfully (4)

20 an official edict or announcement (8)

22 a person who works or is employed in place of others who are on strike, thereby making the strike ineffectual (13)

Down

1 a member of a priestly caste of ancient Persia (4)

2 used as a form of address to a man whose name is not known (6)

3 a large, flightless swift-running African bird (7)

4 in a matter-of-fact or ironically humorous way (5)

Across

2. The state of being known or talked about 7 affected with panic; very frightened (5-8)

8 relating to or situated on the shore of the sea or a lake (8)

9 a long upholstered seat with a back and arms, for two or more people (4)

10 a level paved area next to a building; a patio (7)

12 additional to what is required for ordinary use (5)

14 noisy and disorderly (5)

16 a service of evening prayer in the

5 behaves badly (4,2)

6 a person who regularly travels by sea (8)

11 the great or extreme scale, seriousness, or extent of something perceived as bad or morally wrong (8)

13 the sweet course eaten at the end of a meal (7)

15 to keep someone in official custody (6)

17 an outcast (6)

18 a preface or preamble to a book or speech (5)

21 the end of a hammer head opposite the face, typically wedge-shaped, curved, or spherical (4)

Mar 21 - Apr 19

This week, you’re actively chosing something better. There is excellent energy for gathering with friends and having a mini adventure. Get out into the great outdoors together and have some fun. Your intuition is on point so if you’re drawn to something, trust it.

JUN 21 - JUL 22

This week, you get what you need. There’s a direct line between you and what you need. The resources will be at your disposal. Later in the week you might feel inclined to get away, even a short break could be just what you need to refresh and rejuvenate.

sep 23 - oct 22

Puzzle Solutions

This week, seek and you will find. You might come across someone on your travels that will open your eyes to something you hadn’t thought of. This could be a vital clue for a health concern. You’re lucky right now with connections and information.

Dec 22 - Jan 19

This week, you’re moving forward no matter what. There is money to be made today if you apply yourself to the task. Later in the week you might have the opportunity to move, use your dexterity and have fun, dancing maybe or riding a bike?

apr 20 - may 20

This week, you could hit the jackpot. Money, career change, resume updates there’s plenty of positive energy and movement in your finances and career. A chance meeting with friends of friends might just open a whole new avenue of adventure & good times.

WEEKLY HOROSCOPES SUDOKU

JUL 23 - AUG 22

This week, you’re winning the race. You’ll make lasting memories early in the week, there will be plenty of laughter, sharing stories and spending time with friends and family. You and your love might not be able to get the timing right, try again on Saturday.

oct 23 - nov 21

This week, big changes come once you commit. Secrets have a way of getting found out, it might be better to be honest from the outset. There is good energy around your home and finances, maybe you’re thinking of renting a room out to help the budget.

Jan 20 - Feb 18

This week, you could go boldly in a new direction. You’ll be brimming with confidence. You won’t feel the need for anyones permission to make a bold statement. You could use this energy to gain the additional resources you need for a project.

May 21 - Jun 20

This week, things seem to be lining up in your favour. You could be chosen out of a group for an opportunity. This might feel like a mixed blessing. It’s great to have achieved this goal or won this award but the spotlight it’s put you in might not feel so comfortable.

Aug 23 -Sep 22

This week, the fog lifts, there is clarity ahead. Your responsibilities and obligations at home could be your focus, you might even receive a few compliments about how organised and efficient you are. Later in the week, you could jump into something fun.

nov 22 - dec 21

This week, you know the magic words. Early in the week you could find yourself spending time with family you haven’t seen in a while. Later in the week you could be giving your home an update, redecorating or even just having a big clean out and fresh start.

Feb 19 - Mar 20

This week, your intuition is on point. Your spriritual antenna is aligned, the guidance you need has always been right there. Tune in, ask the questions. Pay attention to the signs and synchronicities. Maybe take some time to meditate or journal to help tune in.

Raffaela Raso

Passed away 1st February, 2000

It’s been 23 years but the treasured memories of you remain in our hearts forever.

Lots of love: Always missed by Lino, Gina, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

IN LOVING MEMORY

Nellie Elizabeth Cooper (nee Jones) 02/08/1941 ~ 30/01/2020

Your presence we miss, Your memories we treasure.

Loving you always, Even though 3 years have passed we have forgotten you never. Kevin Cooper and Family.

Raffaela Raso

19311.2.2000

A beautiful memory, dearer than gold, Of a mother whose worth can never be told. There’s a place in my heart no one can fill, I miss you, mum, and always will.

Voerman, Harold John

It is with saddened hearts the Voerman family announce that Harold John Voerman passed on Friday 20th January, 2023. Loving Father of Belinda & Michael. Brother to Marcia, Shirley & Paul. Partner to Joyce. Opa to Skyla, Kaylee, Davin & Eliza. R.I.P. Harold you will be missed.

Allan Beacham (27.01.2016)

Rahna Beacham (27.06.2011)

In loving memory of our Dad and Mum.

“We keep you both close within our hearts and memories. Walk with us throughout our lives until we meet again. Eternally in our hearts.”

Love Allan, Bronwyn, Robyn (deceased), Sandra, Gail and their families.

Funeral notIce

LANE, Bevan Neal

Late of Atherton. Passed away on the 28th of December, 2022. Aged 71 years.

Beloved Brother of Desley Doran (Townsville) & Robert Lane (Dec.) and was a Friend to many.

All family and friends are warmly invited to attend a memorial service celebrating Bevan’s life commencing at 10:00am on Friday the 3rd of February at the Atherton International Club function room.

Guilfoyle Funeral Services

Chapels, Crematorium & Memorial Gardens

Atherton: 4091 2147 Mareeba: 4092 1013 Local Family Owned & “Entrusted for over 70 years” www.guilfoylefunerals.com.au

MAHONY, Violet Rose

Late of Speedy Close, Bentley Park. Aged 88 years.

Most dearly loved Mother of Richard (dec’d), Maxwell (dec’d), Patricia, Leslie, Colin, Janet, Rhonda, Beverley & Jane. Loved Mother-inLaw, Grandmother and Great Grandmother of their families.

All family and friends of VIOLET MAHONY are respectfully invited to attend her funeral service, which will be held THIS THURSDAY MORNING 2nd February 2023, commencing at 10.00am in the Chapel of Heritage Brady Funeral Directors Crematorium, 76 Maher Road, Gordonvale. www.heritagebradyfunerals.com.au to Live Stream.

For Sale

ONO SPRAY ‘N’ BAKE BOOTH 11.3m x 3.6m x 2.75m high, internal walls & ceiling lighting & exhaust fan. Removal & deconstruction to be organised by purchaser.

$12,000 ONO

Enquiries: Tolly 4031 5533 or 0419 733 358

LG IPECS LIP-8012E IP/VOIP PHONE SYSTEM

• 7 handsets

• LCD Display

• 12 Programmable Keys

• Double LAN port Selling due to system upgrade. $250 Ph: 4092

Filippo (Phillip) Antonio William ROCCA 14/09/1967 - 31/12/2022

Phillip passed away in his home at Mudjimba on the 31st of December, 2022. Aged 55 years. Son to Filippo (dec) and Ann. Brother to Melody and Lynda. Brother-in-Law to Billy. Uncle to Len, Dakoda and Ziggy. Forever loved and remembered by the Rocca, Boerner and Cleaver families, and his many friends.

We welcome all to honour Phillip’s life at a ceremony at the Atherton Lawn Cemetery at 10:30am on Saturday the 4th of February. In keeping with the family, please wear something colourful as we celebrate Phillip’s life. Directly after the service we will continue Phillip’s celebration of life at Tinaroo. In lieu of cards or flowers please donate to: brokenrites.org.au or blackdoginstitute.org.au.

Rest In Peace.

1300 781 084

Excellent condition, matching accessories available, event and casual wear. Size 8 shoes. ALL FROM $20 Tolga P: 4095 5739

WE ARE LOOKING FOR LOCAL FRUIT AND VEGETABLE GROWERS

Tablelands and Innisfail areas, to supply Fruit, Veg and Herbs to our store at DFO in Cairns. People that supply Rustys Market are more than welcome.

Please contact Toddies Local Choice Fruit & Veg and let us know what you supply.

Email: salick57@bigpond.com

SUPPORTERS OF 65 ROSES INC. FOR CYSTIC FIBROSIS

GARAGE SALE

1 FRASER STREET MAREEBA

FRIDAY 3RD FEBRUARY

8:00AM TO 5:00PM

SATURDAY 4TH FEBRUARY

8:00AM TO 3:00PM

Helping support sufferers of Cystic Fibrosis and their Families.

SAT 4th, SUN 5th FEB 8AM-4PM

Phone: Dick 0406 075 819 Husqvarna 246

TOOLS, LINEN, BOOKS & TOYS. 20 NATALIE CLOSE, MAREEBA

Mareeba, Dimbulah, Kuranda, Walkamin, Tolga, Atherton, Kairi, Malanda, Yungaburra, Ravenshoe, Herberton, Koah, Speewah, Mutchilba, Almaden, Chillagoe, Biboohra, Mt Molloy, Julatten, Mt Carbine, Cooktown, Lakeland, Laura, Normonton, Mt Surprise, Mt Garnet, Croydon, Forsayth, Einasleigh, Karumba, Georgetown, Cairns, Mossman, Port Douglas and many more in between! For more

MAREEBA AVOCADO & BANANA FARM REQUIRES

• Truck Driver

• Forklift Operator

We have a long-term position for a Truck Driver & Forklift Operator. Must have HR licence, forklift ticket and experience.

Packing shed is located in Walkamin and farms are located in the Mareeba area. You will need to have your own transport and accommodation on the Tablelands.

If interested, please email your details to: obiefresh@bigpond.com

Please include full name, address and availability.

MAREEBA BANANA FARM REQUIRES

• Banana Bagging Machine Operators

• Banana Bell Injectors

• Banana Cutters

We have long term positions for anyone interested. All Employees are employed on a Casual basis and are paid the award rate of $26.73/hour. Hours are 38 hours per week Monday to Friday.

You will need to have your own transport and accommodation on the tablelands.

All farms are located in Mareeba and Walkamin area.

If interested, please email your details to: obiefresh@bigpond.com

Please include full name, address and availability.

FINANCE & INSURANCE

John Cole Toyota Atherton has an exciting opportunity available for a motivated Finance & Insurance Consultant to join our team for a fixed term (with possibility of extension).

About the Role

Working directly with our Finance and Sales Team you will utilise your finance & insurance knowledge, as well as your excellent customer service & sales skills, to provide our guests with the right vehicle finance and insurance products for their needs.

Skills and Experience

• Experience delivering excellent customer service & sales of finance and insurance products

• Communicating & complying with finance and insurance policies

• Preparing & completing finance documents, leasing, insurance contracts and policies

• Monitoring and maximizing all sales leads

• Coaching staff and team leadership

• Maintaining accurate & timely administrative processes & reports

• Being self-motivated while having excellent communication, organisation and interpersonal skills

For a confidential interview please contact Kelly Walker, Group Business Manager on 07 4030 5561 or email: kelly.walker@johncolefinance.com.au

Applications Close: 28 Febuary 2023

Only short-listed applicants will be contacted.

Full time position available for an experienced, trade qualified person in a small independently owned workshop, located in Cairns. Attractive remuneration package including bonuses for the right person.

or email: edgehillservo@hotmail.com

High Impact Industry - Mobile Concrete Batching Plant

Atherton Tableland Mineral & Lapidary Club A.G.M.

Proposed Development

Make a submission from:

1st February to 27th February, 2023

Material Change of Use –Undefined Use (Workforce Accommodation)

Where: 8 Vicary Road, Mareeba

On: Lot 1 on RP741791

Approval Sought: Development Permit

Application Ref: MCU/23/0002

You may obtain a copy of the application and make a submission to: Mareeba Shire Council PO Box 154, MAREEBA, QLD, 4880 info@msc.qld.gov.au

EOI-MSC2023-01

MAREEBA AIRPORT FUTURE OPTIONS

Mareeba Shire Council invites expressions of interest from suitably qualified Respondents for the commercial operation and development of its airport aviation industrial park infrastructure assets and to operate and maintain Mareeba aerodrome under long-term lease arrangements. EOI documents are available on Council’s online e-procurement system, VendorPanel- https://www. vendorpanel.com.au/PublicTenders.aspx

All enquiries or clarifications must be via the online forum which will close 7 days prior to closing time. Council officers are unable to respond to verbal or emailed enquiries. The closing time for electronic lodgement of EOIs is 2:00pm Wednesday, 15 March 2023. Regulation 228(7) of the Local Government Regulation 2012 may be applied. Tender will not be opened publicly. The lowest or any tender not necessarily accepted.

Peter Franks

Chief Executive Officer PO Box 154, MAREEBA QLD 4880

1300 308 461 www.msc.qld.gov.au

Public notification requirements are in accordance with the Planning Act 2016.

FREE GREEN WASTE DISPOSAL DAYS

Mareeba Shire Council Free Green Waste Disposal Days (domestic only) – February, 2023.

Mareeba, Kuranda, Dimbulah and Julatten Transfer Stations:

• Saturday 4 February & Sunday 5 February 2023

Almaden, Irvinebank and Mt Molloy Transfer Stations:

• Saturday 4 February & Sunday 5 February 2023

Mt Carbine Transfer Station:

• Thursday 2 February & Sunday 5 February 2023

Mutchilba Transfer Station:

•Wednesday 1 February & Saturday 4 February 2023

Chillagoe Transfer Station:

• Thursday 2 February & Saturday 4 February 2023

For more information, please phone 1300 308 461 or visit: www.msc.qld.gov.au.

Peter Franks Chief Executive Officer PO Box 154, MAREEBA QLD 4880

has notice and that in such event the executor will not as respect the property so transferred or distributed be liable to any such person of whose claim he had no notice at the time of such transfer or distribution.

Women’s Sexual Assault Survivors Group Fortnightly: Wednesdays 9.00am - 11.00am, CWA Hall, Jack Street, Atherton FREE and welcoming (chats, coffee, craft & connection).

Please call TSAS 4091 4036 For further information

SPORT

Interest sought to manage pools

INTERESTED parties are again being asked to put their names forward to lease or manage Mareeba Shire Council’s pools in Kuranda, Mareeba and Dimbulah as well as the Dimbulah Caravan Park.

The management of the pools and caravan park fell back into council’s hands after previous lessee H20 Sport and Leisure put forward a longterm tender to manage the facilities for just over $1 million a year.

Despite H20 being the only company to put forward a tender, council decided not to award it to them and instead take on management of the facilities itself in the interim.

Council then approached two businesses to run the pool, one of which was happy to sign on for a short-term lease.

Marlin Coast Swimming and Fitness has been managing the facilities in a six-month short-term lease since December last year, charging council $360,000.

Council hopes more interested parties for the leasing or management of the pools and caravan

park will come forward and submit tenders.

“Council is open to suggestions and creative ideas on how the facilities can be managed to drive usage and capture new opportunities,” Mayor Angela Toppin said.

“The facilities are currently being operated under a short-term arrangement, until 30 June 2023.”

“As Mayor, I would like to reassure residents that council will do all that is necessary to continue to operate the pools while the new arrangement is finalised.”

Current operating hours for all three facilities are available on council’s website and advertised at the sites.

“The Shire's swimming pools provide important social and recreational opportunities and deliver significant community benefits. Many residents are also employed as lifeguards or staff at the pools,” Cr Toppin said.

“Council thanks residents and visitors for their understanding and patience during this transition period.”

Snell rides with the best in Tamworth

MAREEBA’S Josh Snell made his name known in Tamworth after competing in the ABCRA Nationals Final Rodeo.

The National Finals welcomed the top 15 riders across the country for each category including Josh to compete for the top spot.

Competing in the 11 to 14 years steer and 11 to 14 years mini bull, Josh put in his all coming home sixth in mini bulls and 10th in the steers.

During the event, Josh gave it his all but his highlight was competing alongside some of the greatest in the industry.

“A special moment for me in Tamworth this year was getting to compete alongside my best friend Caleb Sheahan who lives in Cairns,” he said.

“I’m happy with my rides, I gave it 100 per cent.”

Josh has been tackling bull since he was six years old and has travelled the ABCRA circuit from Hopevale to Townsville.

Following him and supporting him every

Rhee TaeKwonDo aims at achieving fitness and self defence which helps build confidence, discipline and coordination.

TRAINING NIGHTS:

Mondays & Wednesdays 6.15pm to 7.15pm

Sports Hall, Walsh Street, Mareeba (next to skatepark) Phone: 4093 2593 • Mobile: 0409 055 450

step of the way through his bull riding career is his mother, Teegan.

From taking him to practice to the rodeo he competes at, Teegan is beyond proud of her son’s efforts.

Supporting him comes in all different levels, anywhere from taking him to local practise days at friends, the riding schools, to al the rodeos he competes at.

“Seeing Josh compete in a sport he has passion and love for is a very proud moment for me,” she said.

“Supporting him comes in all different levels, anywhere from taking him to local practise days at friends, the riding schools, to al the rodeos he competes at.

“In the future I hope to see josh follow his dreams to one day compete in the Australian PBR, and to one day represent Australia in the Canadian/American circuit.

“(Competing in Tamworth) was a wonderful experience to be involved in, and it was great to see a lot of Queenslanders competing.”

Chance for clubs to be part of NQ Games

SPORTING clubs will have the chance to host a selection of events with the NQ Games set to be hosted in Cairns next year.

Mareeba Shire Council was a member of the North Queensland Sports Foundation previously but cancelled their membership as there were no perceived benefits at the time.

However with the NQ games set for Cairns in

2024, sporting clubs in the shire will have the opportunity to capitalise on the games and apply to host a sporting event.

Councillor Mario Mlikota was appointed as council’s delegate and will be attending a meeting at a later date to discuss opportunities for local clubs and how they can best be involved in the games.

Josh Snell competed at the ABCRA Nationals Final Rodeo. PHOTO SUPPLIED.

SPORT

Atherton retains top spot Mareeba fall in close match

BARRON River travelled up the hill to take on Atherton in Saturday’s first grade 40 over match at Loder Park.

Atherton won the toss and decided to bowl with youngsters

Matt Nielsen and Ben Vikionkorpi delivering the best opening spell of Atherton's season to date, sending four Barron batsmen back with just 20 runs on the board.

Wickets fell steadily and only Andrew Phelps made any significant contribution as Barron were dismissed for just 93 runs.

Veteran Dan Parnell found appreciable turn and took three wickets, with Nielsen and father and son duo of Ben and Angus Vikionkorpi taking two each.

Atherton started steadily in pursuit and the chase never really looked in any doubt.

Skipper Tom Boorman, who is in rare touch this year, along with Caleb Constant, another batsman in fine form, upped the tempo and brought the side home with 6 wickets and plenty of overs to spare.

The win means that Atherton has regained second spot on the Cricket Far North ladder and has all but wrapped up a semi-final spot with two games remaining.

Atherton will travel to Griffiths Park this week to take on the current ladder leaders, Norths.

MAREEBA second grade has lost a close game against town rivals Atherton on Sunday at Loder Park in a hard-fought match that went right down to the wire.

After winning the toss, Mareeba decided to take the new pill and sent Atherton in to bat looking to strike early and put the visitors on the back foot.

Atherton opener Greg Misener looked solid at the crease as the first three wickets for Atherton fell cheaply under the opening bowling attack of Brendan Payne and Tyson Brown.

Mareeba’s relentless attack quickly saw Misener dispatched and fresh middle-order batsmen at the crease.

However, Atherton’s middle order continued to knock the ball around with Angus Goetze, Ken Webb, Locky Hollitt and Amy Hunter all made good runs into the double digits.

The side managed to push through and post a defendable total of 167 after

their allotted 40 overs.

Kicking things off for Mareeba was openers Will Hanlon and Brendan Falvo who took their time getting settled before Hanlon was on his way back to the sheds after a handy bit of fielding from Matthew Coleman.

Mareeba danger man and captain Brendan Payne soon followed, making only one run after facing eight balls.

The rest of Mareeba’s order fell cheaply without too much trouble besides Brendan Green and Jared Dent who both knuckled down and posted totals well into the 30s.

Despite the tail wagging from the bottom order it was too little too late as Atherton managed to soak up the rest of the overs and leave Mareeba just 15 runs short of a victory.

Mareeba will now have a bottom of the table clash against last placed Cassowary Coast at Borzi Park this Sunday starting from 12:30pm.

Atherton bowler Ben Vikionkorp.