The Express Newspaper 7th December 2022

Engagement with readers reaches new heights

THE last 12 months have seen significant growth at The Express. The reach across our social network platforms has seen a marked increase in visitor numbers with the intro duction of news video and audio products.

Over the course of a year, our Facebook page has jumped from 16,000 followers to just over 21,400.

A recent post titled “Spooky Pines”, a story about switching pumpkins for pineap ples to give Halloween a more Australian flavour, had a reach of 1.1 million, with over 12,000 comments and 9,000 shares.

The story went above and beyond all ex pectations as people across the world were intrigued by the idea of creating a spooky Halloween decoration out of pineapples instead of pumpkins and shared it to their friends and family, drawing them to our small locally-owned paper.

Since February, 2,000 new readers have hit the like button on our Facebook page and over 80,000 have visited our page to keep up to date with all the latest news across our readership.

From a print perspective, the Express has increased its numbers from 12,000 to 14,000, an increase of 15 per cent.

“While we know newspapers are still favoured by our readers as their preferred way to get their local news and sport, we are also aware of the need to increase our digital presence,” managing director Carl Portella said.

“To that end, The Express has started making video news pieces which provide our readers with a visual and audio experi ence that complements our printed product.”

“An interesting find within our Facebook and Google analytics is 25 per cent of our readers are based in Cairns while the other

75 per cent are from across our greater read ership area and our team is honoured to be their trusted news source ‘up the hill’.

“We want to continue providing qual ity news to our expanding readership so we have invested in some new technology to help deliver news in a variety of ways.

“In February this year, we introduced Ad Auris to our website which is an audio player that narrates our stories back to you through your device.

“In August this year, we aired our first video, which was about the Mt Carbine Bull and Bronc ride, with hopes to show our au dience more of the action firsthand.”

Editor Robyn Holmes said it was impor tant to have new ways of engaging read ers and offering them different mediums through which they can be informed about what’s happening in the region.

“Our journalists spent several weeks learning the ways of Premier Pro and how to capture the best shots to put together in a way that tells the story best through video,” she said.

“All these videos have been uploaded to our Facebook and YouTube page and we are continuing to find new ways to bring our stories to life.

“Our journalists have also learned how

to fly drones, securing their accreditations, learning all the laws, regulations and train ing, and since then we have used footage to capture stories like the raging fires on Chewko Road in Mareeba, and the amazing Savannah in the Round.

“We appreciate the support of all our readers over the years and we look forward to providing quality locally-sourced news for years to come.”

Cadet Journalist Ellie Fink creates another news video which complements

The Express’ printed product.

Sink or swim for Shire pools

BY RHYS THOMAS

MAREEBA Shire Council has made a bold deci sion to take on the management of the Mareeba and Kuranda pools and the Dimbulah pool and caravan park after rejecting the only eligible tenderer fear ing the cost would be too much for ratepayers to bear.

H20 Sport and Leisure Group has been running the three complexes since August 2021 as part of a management lease arrangement for 12 months, dur ing which time the company was to ascertain the true costs of operating the facilities.

Council agreed to the arrangement because it had no data on the actual costs. H20 understood this was a binding agreement and would be revis ited in a year’s time.

On the anniversary of the lease agreement, council put the contract back on the market, but only H20 was the only company that lodged a ten der, offering to take up the contract fo r $760,000.

However, council then informed H2O, it wanted additional tasks undertaken by the company to re move any further council involvement in running the facilities.

Taking these into account, H2O submitted an amended tender at the value of $1,008,053.

Council considered the new tender at a special meeting last week and opted to reject the tender on the basis it could not afford the additional funds, and instead choosing to take on the management itself.

The turn of events has clearly been disappoint ing for H2O company director Jason Salecich, who believes the company acted in good faith.

“Even though we had what appeared to be a binding agreement in August 2021, we were ad vised on the anniversary of the first 12 months the pools would go back to tender,” he said.

“Despite our efforts, we were forced to tender, at which time the council significantly increased the scope of responsibility, stating they lacked re sources for the roles and wanted us to carry out all roles.

“This is reflected in the increase in tender we provided but clearly this seems contradictory to the approach now, with council stating it will take on management.”

Around 18 staff are employed over the three fa cilities, with H20 providing the necessary training and relevant courses to get workers up to industry standards – council has since offered the current workers jobs should they choose to stay.

“We wish council all the best in what is an ex tremely difficult job to manage all venues especial ly due to the tyranny of distance, extremely short availability of staff and a specific skill set required to ensure compliance and safe management of ven ues,” Mr Salecich said.

H2O has been running similar complexes for many years, having just renewed their contract for the Woree Pool with Cairns Regional Council for another 10 years.

Cr Mario Milkota told last week’s meeting he

had no doubt H20 had provided a high quality ser vice, but thought the cost on ratepayers would be too much.

“Looking at the actual submission, I believe we can neither dispute or question the professionalism or the high standard of work put in by H20 Sport and Leisure Group,” he said.

“They certainly have raised the bar when it comes to delivery of service but the question is whether we, as a council, can afford to pay for this very high standard of service delivery.

“Considering the tender submitted, it is evident that council would need to increase rates substan tially across the shire to pay for the operation of these aquatic facilities and caravan park.

“That is the bottom line in my way of thinking.”

Mr Salecich said while he was grateful for Cr Mlikota’s comments, he was disappointed the company was not given an opportunity to negotiate with council.

“We can’t say we are not disappointed and ap preciate the kind words of Cr Mlikota but we wish to state we wanted to work towards a resolution - it appears our offer is clearly significantly above what council believes it should cost to manage all ven ues.

“We are very disappointed about the process considering we took it on when council was in a dire position and made assurances in regard to our long-term tenure at the facilities.”

Council has confirmed it will put out a tender to operate the three complexes in the new year.

Mareeba Shire Council will now take on the task of managing the pool complexes in Mareeba, Dimbulah and Kuranda after they rejected the only eligible tender.

Prior’s Creek precinct moves forward

ATHERTON is on track to get its own very own version of the Cairns Espla nade, with Tablelands Regional Coun cil recently awarding the tender for the design of the Prior’s Creek Precinct development.

Nearly half a million dollars has been awarded to Townsville-based company, Place Design Group, to de sign the “catalyst for a re-imagined Atherton CBD”, according to Mayor Rod Marti.

The Prior’s Creek Precinct runs alongside the Atherton CBD and al

ready contains sections of the rail trail, the trail head for the Atherton Forest Mountain Bike Park and outdoor exer cise equipment.

Place Design Group was chosen to do the design for the precinct for $496,644, beating out two applicants who lodged higher tenders, and one cheaper one at $235,530.

Mayor Marti said the Priors Creek Precinct development would do won ders for Atherton and massively com plement the growing town and its CBD.

“Atherton is growing at an alarming rate however our public spaces are not keeping pace,” he said.

“The expansion of local businesses, regional infrastructure investments and the Atherton Hospital are major eco nomic drivers pumping the town.

“In Priors Creek, we will match that change through spaces that draw peo ple in, that fully realise the amazing asset that’s right beside our CBD – it’s like Cairns and the Esplanade.”

The new space will include an am phitheatre, trail head for mountain bik

Medical research inspires local Lion

MAREEBA Lion Tom Braes OAM has stepped up into a new role after successfully being elect ed to the Board of Directors of the Lions Medi cal Research Foundation and appointed Chair of the Governance Board Committee.

With medical research at its core and hope for a better future for all, the foundation has sup ported 58 medical researchers in a very broad range of disciplines including ovarian cancer, ophthalmology, cord blood, gestational diabetes, neonatal care, pharmacology, urology, and toxi cology since the 1960’s through funding.

At any given time, the foundation supports two research fellows, a high school student re search immersion program and occasional sup port for worthy research initiatives that require top-up funding to accelerate health outcomes.

Mr Braes said he was honoured to be take on the position of chair and can not wait to see it go above and beyond in the research it does.

“It is a really worthwhile foundation and I

think to be involved with it is quite remarkable,” he said.

“I just want to see the foundation continue with the amazing work it has been doing for the last 60 years.

“Without research you don’t get the medi cines and cures for illnesses and diseases, and it is truly remarkable what these research fellows can do.”

Mr Braes is particularly excited to work alongside Associate Professor Carlos Salomon, whose research focus is early detection tests for ovarian cancer, a cause very close to his heart.

The Foundation is funded by Queensland Li ons clubs and donations and bequests from the public.

Anyone wishing to donate or bequest to the Foundation may contact the Mareeba Lions Club on lionsmba@gmail.com or the Founda tion directly at secretary@lmrf.org.au or phone the Foundation on (07) 3832 1688.

ing, market plaza, a significant play park, picnic/BBQ tables and public art.

Cr Marti is seeking to attract inves tors to the town and hopes the new pre cinct will help entice people to invest in Atherton.

“The value-add that we create on these public spaces will act as levers for investors on the freehold land,” he said.

“We would seek to attract investors in, but not excluded to, upmarket ac commodation (hotel and apartment), retail and other outlets.

“It is an ambitious project that must be done if we are to keep up with our community expectations and a grow ing population.

“This council will work towards securing funding from both State and Federal Governments and this would be in addition to council’s own finan cial commitments - it is very exciting and overdue.”

With the design of the precinct now underway, council is hoping to provide a draft design to the community in early 2023.

New strategy for smarter water use

MAKING the best use of the Tableland region’s water supplies will be the focus of a new Water Demand Management Strategy which will cost just over $270,000 to develop.

Aecom Australia has been awarded the con tract to develop the water demand strategy which is aimed at reducing the amount of water being supplied to properties to improve the reliability of water supply schemes, lengthen the life of infra structure, delay the need to upgrade infrastructure, reduce the water being drawn from the environ ment, and delay the time until alternative supplies are operated during drought and costs associated with that.

According to a council report, the strategy will

consider efficiency-based initiatives such as ef ficient fixtures and permanent conservation meas ures, the introduction of smart water metering, sys tem leakage reduction, and an education campaign.

One of the prime objectives of the strategy is the development of a detailed business case for the introduction of smart metering, the assessment of the council’s needs in respect of smart metering technology and the development of tender speci fications to allow TRC to proceed to tender for the supply and installation of smart metering.

Currently, residents living in the Tablelands lo cal government area are on Level 2 water restric tions, with Tinaroo Falls Dam now at 76 per cent capacity.

Mareeba Lion Tom Braes OAM has been appointed chair of the Governance Board Committee for the Board of Directors of the Lions Medical Research Foundation.

Dimbulah photographer captures big wins

BY ELLIE FINK

A LOCAL photographer with a pas sion for capturing lifes special mo ments has been recognised on a na tional level with Denim and Lace Photography from Dimbulah, recently announced as a finalist in the 2022 Australian Wedding Awards.

Owner of Denim and Lace, Kad diesha Leask, has been in the indus try for just over a year, with wedding photography being her main medium.

Ms Leask entered the competition at the beginning of 2022 and was be yond shocked when she won the Far North Queensland round.

“I was completely gobsmacked when they announced my name as the winner. I saw all the other entrants and thought ‘there is no way’,” she said.

Bridges plan reveals big costs for TRC

BY ROBYN HOLMES

FIFTEEN bridges in the Tablelands region will have to be replaced during the next nine years as part of a major new plan to address the mainte nance and renewal of bridges and major culverts throughout the area.

The asset management plan, endorsed by Ta blelands Regional Council at its recent meeting, revealed replacing bridges with load limits would cost council upwards of $16 million over that pe riod, and stressed more emphasis had to be placed on Level 2 inspections of bridges, with $240,000 a year required to undertake a comprehensive in spection program.

The plan reveals council has 38 concrete bridg es, 38 composite (contains different materials) bridges, six timber bridges, 16 pedestrian bridges and 112 major culverts, with a current replacement value of $63.3 million.

“Based on current load limits that are being ap plied to TRC bridges and major culverts, there are 18 structures that are not meeting the desired levels of service,” the report stated.

“Based on current information, our present funding levels are insufficient (in particular main tenance funding)….. which will lead to an increase in deterioration resulting in additional load lim its, closures and increased reactive maintenance costs.”

Deputy Mayor Cr Kevin Cardew seized upon the report to propose that a dedicated crew be es tablished to carry out Level 2 inspections of the bridges, saying council “had dropped the ball” when it came to the proper maintenance of its bridges and culverts.

“We’re behind the eight ball - we have got to get going – we can’t adopt this plan unless we have a crew to undertake the works, unless it’s just a waste of time,” he said.

Cr Peter Hodge agreed, saying there was no value in endorsing the plan without the means to be able to implement it.

Infrastructure Services general manager Mark Viz confirmed the council did have the capacity to undertake the inspection program, saying more staff and resources would be required.

The Level 2 inspections would be required to give council a clearer picture of which bridges would need to be replaced.

But councillors did not agree with establishing a dedicated work crew for the inspection program and the motion was lost.

The asset management plan documents the cur rent state of play in relation to the condition of bridges and culverts, noting that on 66 per cent of its bridges were structurally sound and fit for pur pose, and that only 1 per cent of Level 2 inspec tions were carried out in 2021-22.

Nine bridges were considered to be in “poor” condition, three deemed “very poor”, and one is considered to be “unsafe”. Culverts were an even more concerning, with 52 considered to be in “poor” condition, 15 “very poor”, and seven deemed to be “unsafe”.

The plan notes TRC’s current maintenance budget for the infrastructure is well below the Queensland Treasury Corporation (QTC) model, with only around $90,000 allocated in 2020-21 and 2021-22, compared to the QTC model of more than $440,000 a year. That figure mirrors what the new plan recommends going forward.

“I was so happy to be named a fi nalist.”

Like most businesses, Ms Leask started from humble beginnings by borrowing her mother’s camera to photograph her children.

Ms Leask’s goal for every shoot is to make it fun and help the brides, grooms and wedding party feel as nat ural and relaxed as possible.

“I really like making things fun and do silly stuff and make up games for the kids because if they aren’t en joying themselves, it isn’t fun,” she said.

“I like to capture every little mo ment so I will take thousands and thousands of photos of one wedding so that I have the perfect photo for them to remember.”

Due to commitments, Ms Leask

Last days to enter shop local promo

THERE are only a few days left to enter The Ex press Newspaper’s $2000 Christmas Vouchers Give away. Four lucky winners will receive $500 worth of vouchers to spend back in local businesses.

The competition, which is run every year, ends on Monday 12 December and is designed to encour age Tableland residents to shop in local businesses leading up to Christmas.

Shop and enter at participating businesses across the regio for your chance to win.

See pages 20-21 for more info.

will be unable to attend the red carpet event on 11 January in Sydney, but will be looking forward to watching the live stream.

She says she feels honoured be recognised on such a large scale and thanks everyone who has supported Denim and Lace Photography in the last year.

“I am going up against so many amazing wedding photographers from all around Australia and it’s really just a huge honour to even be a finalist,” she said.

“This is something I never would of been able to achieve without the support of all my amazing clients and the friends and family who always en courage me and shout my name to the roof tops when someone is looking for a photographer.”

A photo taken by Kaddiesha for Jacko and Georgie on their wedding day.

AN antique church pew has been repur posed, giving Malanda residents a new comfy place to sit when seeking first aid at the local Ambulance station.

A combined effort by the Malanda Uniting Church, Malanda Men’s Shed and Malanda Ambulance Committee re sulted in a the church pew being refur bished and now repurposed at the station.

After the Malanda Uniting Church closed in 2019, one of its pews was do nated to the local ambulance station to be used as seating.

The Malanda Men’s Shed then got on board to refurbish the pew. They gave it a fresh coat of paint and installed a plaque detailing the groups involved in the pro ject.

Largest native title sea claim

AN area roughly the same size of Tasmania across the Cape York Peninsula and the Torres Strait region has had thousands of generations of shared history formally recognised in a his toric native title consent deter mination.

Last Wednesday, the Federal Court of Australia on Thursday Island recognised the native ti tle rights of the Kemer Kemer Meriam and Kulkalgal Nations and Kaurareg, Ankamuthi and Gudang Yadhaykenu people.

The determination solves seven partially overlapping na tive claims over sea and land and is the largest native sea claim in Australia’s history.

This title determination also marks the first time Tor res Strait Islanders and First Nations people of mainland Australia have worked together to achieve recognition of their native title rights.

Ankamuthi Traditional Owner, Charles Woosup said the determinations will be cel ebrated across the Cape and Torres Strait region.

“It’s good to see that two Indigenous cultures are coming together and fighting for the same thing,” he said.

“Our ancestors have been hunting and gathering on these waters together for a long, long time.”

The area covered by the sev en claims stretches across the Cape York Peninsula and Tor res Strait from Captain Billy Landing on the northeast coast of Cape York, east to the Great

Barrier Reef, north to the sea surrounding Warral (Hawkes bury) Island and Ului (West) Island, and west to Skardon River, just north of Mapoon.

While not all of the claimed areas were determined last week, the determination area will cover 50 islands, islets, sand cays and rocks.

Since 2020, two native ti tle representative bodies, Cape York Land Council (CYLC) and Gur A Baradharaw Kod Torres Strait Sea and Land Council (GBK), have been working towards the historic native title claims.

CYLC Chair Richie Ah Mat said the historic occasion is a testament to the strength that comes from speaking with a united voice.

“This is a momentous oc casion on so many levels,” he said.

“The decision to unite to give one voice to this land and sea claim has ensured that First Nations people of the Torres Strait and Cape York have fi nally been heard.

“This consent determination recognises so many things. Our right to use marine resources, our right to speak up to protect our land and sea country and our unbroken connection with this precious place.

“I want to acknowledge the dedication of all the Traditional Owners and the native title rep resentative bodies and the long, long journey it has taken to get here.”

Malanda Ambulance officer Shane Newton (second from left) with Cill Fry, Ted Rolley, Bob Barkworth and Jock Copeland who all had a hand in donating the refurbished church pew.

Moro to lead Growcom

BY RHYS THOMAS

LOCAL mango grower Joe Moro has be come the first Far North Queensland farm er in 100 years to lead Queensland’s peak horticulture body, Growcom.

Mr Moro held the position of deputy chair at Growcom for the past four years and with the previous chair stepping down at last week’s annual general meeting, his colleagues felt he was the right man for the job.

Mr Moro said he was honoured to be the first chair of Growcom in recent history from outside the south-east corner.

“It’s a great honour to be elected chair and lead the industry at a state level into the future,” he said.

Mr Moro is also the chair of the Queens

land Horticultural Council, a forum for deliberating and determining horticulture policies across the state and the president of FNQ Growers. During his time with Growcom, Mr Moro also gained a posi tion as a board director on the Queensland Farmers Federation.

Advocacy has always been a big part of his repertoire and now as chair, this will re main a major focus.

“Growcom represents Queensland growers on a state and national level,” Mr Moro said.

“The horticulture industry has been a backbone of the economy for a long time but it also faces a lot of challenges, from labour to cost increases across the board and some growers are even facing severe flooding.

“I see this as an opportunity to try and

help my fellow growers across Queensland and the industry to get better outcomes.

“I am looking forward to taking on this new challenge.”

For the past few years Growcom has been focusing on their long-term viability and now Mr Moro is looking to “reposi tion” the company to refocus on being the state’s leading advocacy body for the in dustry.

“I think we have reached a really good point in our viability – the company is in a good position financially,” he said.

“Now we can go back to doing what we should be doing, advocating for our grow ers.”

Growcom’s focus will be on addressing labour shortages across the state and the rising cost of production over the next 12 months.

BIG W here to stay

BIG W will remain operating in Atherton despite the prop erty being sold.

Speculation was rife that the popular department store, which opened in Atherton in 2006, would close after me dia reports that it was for sale emerged in late November.

When the advertisement, with the heading of “High Performing Freestanding Big W Discount Department Store”, hit Facebook, many people began to wonder what was going on.

“CBRE Retail Investment are pleased to exclusively present to the market Big W Atherton – a rare opportunity to acquire a high performing freestanding Big W Discount Department Store,” the ad

vertisement read.

But a spokesperson for Woolworths, which owns the Big W chain, confirmed the sale was just for the building itself and not the business.

According to media re ports, a “consortium of Queensland investors” is said to have purchased the property.

Woolworths currently has a lease that expires in just under four years but the company has options to ex tend it to 2041.

“Since 2006, Big W has been proud to serve the Atherton community and will remain open with no disruption to trade,” a Big W spokesperson said.

Road name survey

ROAD names are the focus of a new survey being con ducted by Tablelands Re gional Council as it reviews its Road Naming Policy.

The policy contains “preapproved” road names which are given preference when naming new or unnamed roads. Any other proposed name is at council’s discre tion and requires individual approval by council resolu tion.

The policy identifies nine districts and each of these districts has a separate list of pre-approved road names.

The preference is for names that acknowledge fallen or soldiers that served from a relevant district; First Nations People place names

and language words; histori cal or significant places; spe cifically adopted themes for particular areas; long-term resident families and indi viduals in the relevant dis trict; and any person who has achieved state, national or in ternational recognition.

People are able to now suggest a name be added or removed for consideration of new road naming by complet ing an online survey, giving as much detail as possible to support the suggestion.

The deadline for com munity feedback is Friday 13 January 2023. Go to the council’s website and look under Community Engage ment.

Product of Australia

Joe Moro was appointed chair of Queensland’s peak horticulture body, Growcom, at its annual general meeting last week.

Tablelands businesses celebrated

NEARLY 80 businesses were nominated in this year’s Tablelands Business Excellence Awards, with the winners of seven categories announced at Saturday’s gala dinner.

Mayor Rod Marti said the awards reflected the importance of the business community to the re gion’s broader economy which was continuing to grow, helped by a rise in the number of families and young professionals choosing to move to the area.

“Overall, an incredible 78 businesses were nom inated by community members — with 122 nomi nations in total,” he said.

“This year has been another one of extraordinary growth for our region. Our expanding economy –valued at $1.4 billion – has grown by 7.3 per cent this year. This is the region’s biggest growth as a percentage.

“It’s especially pleasing to see 14 of the busi nesses nominated tonight are new enterprises — all of which add to the diversity of our local economy.”

Mayor Marti said more than 2,500 registered businesses supporting close to 9,500 jobs were cur rently operating in local government area.

In addition to the seven categories, the People’s Choice award, which attracted a total of 1900 votes, was also announced, with TDP Graphics winning the gong with 121 votes ahead of Evans Earthmov ing Contractors with 101 votes and AA Taylors Treelopping with 89 votes.

Taking out Champion Business of the year was Tableland Veterinary Service.

With a 45 year history servicing the region, the business now has six clinics across North Queens land, with over 90 staff and a turnover in excess of $13 million per annum.

“They have an outstanding workplace cul ture, recognised with certification by Great Places to Work Australia, with 97 per cent of their team claiming TVS is a ‘Great Place to Work’,” award presenter Luke Freeman told the audience.

“They give back to the community by provid ing over $30,000 of pro-bono wildlife care work per year, working closely with the Tolga Bat Hospital, Tableland Wildlife Rescue and Tree Roo Rescue Groups.

“They provide career opportunities for dozens of school-based and other trainees to gain qualifica tions in veterinary nursing. “

The Customer Excellence award went to The Polished Touch – Beauty By Courtney, with cli ents describing “feeling restored, rejuvenated and very special” after using the service.

Tolga-based agribusiness HTM Complete took out the Technology & Innovation Impact catego ry, mainly due to its development of the “Farm In ONE” app which allows farmers to make informed decisions and manage daily farm operations such as irrigation automation, monitoring and spray sched ules.

Given Christmas is only a few weeks away, it was apt that the Atherton Christmas Tree Farm was named the winner of the Visual Stand-out cat egory.

The business was applauded for its brand new Big Red Christmas Barn that made customers “feel like you are stepping into a Christmas Wonderland”.

Employer of Choice went to Carinya Home for the Aged for the way the organisation treats its staff and volunteers, including rewards over and above standard award conditions, and active acknowledg ment for their efforts.

Topaz Sustainable Timbers took out the Sus tainability Contribution award for integrating native revegetation into forestry. The company has planted more than 100,000 trees in 25 years, and salvage most of its timber from tree loppers to give it an extra life rather than being chipped and sent to landfill.

Out of 14 businesses nominated in the New & Emerging Business or Service category, Billycart Brewing Co. came out on top, winning for bringing “something new, innovative and well needed to the Tablelands community”.

“The atmosphere is great. The product is fantas tic. Their business ethics are commendable, engag ing with other businesses within their own to offer a great rounding of services to their customers,” the nomination read.

“For the risk they took, the passion and belief they put into the business they deserve to be rec ognised.”

Winners of each category received a $500 Shop Tablelands voucher, trophy and framed certificate. In addition, the People’s Choice winner received a marketing package with The Express newspaper valued at $2000.

Mick Ruppin and Jason Chuck from Champion Business, Tableland Veterinary Service.

Carinya for the Aged’s hospitality service coordinator Thor Bouttell and activities coordinator Chris Burke (right) were thrilled to accept the organisation’s award for Employer of Choice.

Topaz Sustainable Timbers took out the Sustainability Contribution award for integrating native revegetation into forestry.

No, it's not a horror movie. It's the Atherton Tablelands!

Soon they'll be surrounding us... if we don't have our say!

Sarus Cranes flying near stationary wind turbines at Kaban Spinning turbine blades will be their death knell .

Keep Chalumbin Wild Have

your say now about the Chalumbin industrial wind development!

We've got an amazing lifestyle and incredible vistas we don't want them destroyed for another industrial wind development!

How many real long term jobs created for locals from industrial wind developments?

Not many, if any.

Only a few benefit from an industrial wind development, while the community pays the price with increased heavy vehicle traffic, road blocks, power outs and other hassles.

No social license for Chalumbin wind farm Pty. Ltd. The community doesn't want this.

This is critical. Now is the time for us to stand up and stop the poorly-sited Chalumbin industrial wind development.

Just write a simple email submission explaining why you think the Chalumbin industrial wind development, planned for the Southern Tablelands near Ravenshoe, shouldn't proceed.

Yes, anyone can make a submission

No one else can speak for our community but us. Let's make sure they hear us all the way down in Canberra!

Go to www.rainforestreserves.org.au to make a no-fuss email submission to say No to the Chalumbin wind farm.

www.rainforestreserves.org.au Contact us at info@rainforestreserves.org.au

Windy Hill Chalumbin?

Mount Emerald Kaban

Regional uni centre set for Atherton

ASPIRING students in Atherton and the greater Tablelands region will soon have access to higher education without having to relocate with major universities already backing the new Tablelands University Centre.

Kennedy MP Bob Katter welcomed the an nouncement of Vocational Partnership Groups (VPG) Atherton being awarded funding to expand its offerings under the Australian Government's Regional University Centres program.

The program is set to establish eight new re gional university centres across Australia.

Mr Katter said the opportunity to undertake a tertiary education on the Tablelands would help regional towns grow, especially in the “food bowl” of Queensland.

“Our rural towns are dealing with the pressure of population decline because so often our govern ments fail to realise their potential. This is great news for the Tablelands,” Mr Katter said.

VPG chief executive Maryanne Tranter said the establishment of the Tablelands University Centre would aim to provide local access to uni versity education through the provision of support and facilities.

“Utilising existing infrastructure at our VPG Service Centre in Atherton, the Tablelands Uni versity Centre (TUC) will aim to drive positive change in regional education to ensure our youth and wider community have access to quality postschool opportunities and networks,” Ms Tranter said.

“Our service centre already offers dynamic and flexible learning and study spaces, ideal for individual and group learning.

“By opening our doors to the wider commu nity, locals will be able to pursue the career they want and stay in the communities they know and love.”

The TUC is anticipated to benefit students

New face at hospital

MAREEBA has a new di rector of nursing and mid wifery/facility manager after Jennifer Fitzsimons traded her Sydney lifestyle for a rural backdrop.

After looking for a change in scenery, Ms Fitzsimons swapped the bustling cityscape of Syd ney for the quiet, pictur esque backdrop of Tolga when she secured her job at the Mareeba Hospital.

Part of her move was also motivated by trying to provide a better lifestyle for her two-year-old daughter and to be closer to extended family.

Ms Fitzsimons worked at the Western Sydney Lo

cal Health District where she filled various roles in managing the nursing and midwifery workforce, in cluding a role as the direc tor of nursing for a commu nity and integrated health service.

“This is a beautiful part of the world,” she said.

“Everyone has been very helpful, there’s a re ally good team vibe about the hospital – I noticed how well everyone works to gether.”

Ms Fitzsimons is excited about working with her new staff and the local commu nity to address health needs and grow opportunities for the region.

in rural areas, from Mareeba, Tablelands and Ethridge shires.

In the first year of operation, approximately 100 students are estimated to access the centre, with enrolments continuing to build year on year.

It is understood Central Queensland Univer sity and James Cook University are backing the TUC as it aligns with their shared commitment to create increased education pathways for the region.

“Our university partners will deliver learning online for undergraduate courses, such as educa tion, nursing, social work, psychology and engi neering, and have committed to in-person edu cation support as enrolments grow,” Ms Tranter said.

“Students will also have access to an on-site education coach at VPG to enhance learning ex periences and maximise study success.

“Atherton has strong school completion rates,

and in the past, young adults have needed to leave the community to pursue education, and are of ten not returning, contributing to skill shortages across key industries.

“To understand and respond to local needs of Atherton and surrounding communities, a region al university reference group will be established, made up of key industry, business, and commu nity representatives.”.

Tablelands Mayor Rod Marti labelled the ex pansion as “very big news” and said it was a key in addressing workforce skills shortages.

“The opportunity for local people to partici pate in education opportunities, vocational and tertiary, has significant flow-on effects for our community, especially allowing people to im prove their skills and qualifications while staying right here,” he said.

“I congratulate the VPG team for its commit ment and hard work.”

Reservoir project in final stages

THE final stages of the new Ra venshoe Reservoir project are underway, with Tablelands Re gional Council close to award ing the contract for the design and construction of a new water treatment plant, new water mains and a booster pump station.

Stage 1 of the project includ ed the construction of the new reservoir, upgrades to existing intakes at North Cedar Creek and the Millstream River as well as a booster pump station and multiple new pipelines within the Ravenshoe township.

Currently, five separate runof-river water supply schemes to supply the communities of Ra venshoe, Bellview, Cassowary and Millstream North and South.

“The Ravenshoe WQIP Stage 2 will result in the consolidation of these five schemes into a sin gle scheme with a central water

treatment plant in Ravenshoe and approximately 23km of wa ter supply pipeline to supply the local communities of Bellview, Cassowary, Millstream South and North,” a report to council stated.

Because of the size of the project and its technical nature, council has opted to take on a third party to assist with project management and contract ad ministration, awarding that task to PMCA Services for a cost of $366,456.

The tenders for Stage 2 were set to close on 29 November, with council expected to award the contracts for the works early next year.

Council has allocated $2.4 million in this year’s budget for the works and $6.423 million in the 2023-24 budget.

Mareeba Hospital’s new director of nursing and midwifery/facility manager Jennifer Fitzsimons is excited to begin working in her new community.

“At Oak Tree you’ll be surrounded by people who are all at the same stage of life with common interests.

New Year, New You

As 2022 draws to a close, it’s important to reflect and think about what you’d like your next chapter to look like. A move to an Oak Tree Retirement village in 2023 can provide you with a relaxed, carefree retirement lifestyle that puts you first.

With less to worry about, you can spend your time focused on enjoying the good things in life and fi lling your days with whatever it is that brings you happiness – make the most of travelling and seeing the world again, spending precious quality time with family, and connecting with friends. Your retirement is your chance to do the things you want to do, not the things you have to do.

If you’re still living in a large family home, you may have found that maintaining the house and yard was costly and time consuming this year, and you might be considering beginning the process of downsizing. With our simple weekly fee, you’ll have budget certainty over

your everyday living expenses. While we take care of your home and village maintenance, there’s no need to worry about unexpected costs or relying on family to help with the upkeep.

Stay connected

At Oak Tree you’ll be surrounded by people who are all at the same stage of life with common interests. The boutique size of our villages fosters a tight-knit community where everyone is familiar and looks out for one another.

Our facilities and activities encourage you to foster companionships with both new and old friends. All the while, you’ll have an active village manager who supports

the community atmosphere through a calendar of regular social activities.

If simplicity and certainty are part of your resolution for 2023, then take the opportunity this holiday season to visit our village and experience the Oak Tree di erence for yourself. We understand the importance of including family in these decisions, so feel free to bring them too – we’d love to see you all.

Make your next chapter one fi lled with more fun and less worry.

Visit our Village Manager Glen, to learn more about making Oak Tree Retirement Village White Rock Cairns your home.

Coles slammed over grower comments

BY RHYS THOMAS

FNQ Growers is calling on supermarket giant Coles to retract comments made asking growers to “cut their costs” instead of asking to be paid more for their produce.

Several suppliers in New South Wales received letters from Coles asking them to turn their minds to cutting costs instead of relying on a price rise.

New South Wales Farmers hit back, slamming the company and now FNQ Growers has joined the call, asking Coles to retract the comments it made.

Farmers have dealt with pandemic disruptions, extreme floods, skyrocketing fertiliser, fuel and la bour costs, making the current cost of production outweigh the prices being fetched on the market for nearly all commodities, mangos, bananas, avo cados and more.

In comparison, the supermarket giant made $1.048 billion net profit in the 2021-22 financial year.

FNQ Growers chair Joe Moro said he had nev er seen so much hostility directed to Coles from farmers.

“This issue got raised at one of our executive meetings by two of the growers who were very up set and agitated by the news,” he said.

“The comments have really upset growers - I have never seen this much hostility towards Coles.”

Mr Moro is unsure if any growers in the region received a letter from Coles as many do not work with the supermarket directly.

“I am not aware of any grower up here receiv ing a letter but our members wanted FNQ Growers to make it very clear that we were not happy and we are not – Coles should retract those comments.”

Growers’ margins have been slimming over

the past few years as they constantly fight a los ing battle with rising costs, but those have not been passed onto consumers.

However, Mr Moro said farmers could not keep this up forever and eventually costs must be passed on, pushing up the weekly grocery bill for fami lies.

To help combat this, Member for Kennedy Bob Katter is calling on the Federal Government to introduce several laws that will provide food se curity for customers and ensure farmers get a fair price for their produce.

Mr Katter’s legislation recommendations in clude a labelling system that shows the farm-gate price and the supermarket mark up; investment in infrastructure and supply industries to reduce production and transportation costs; and divesti ture legislation that reduces the market power of the major supermarkets to level the playing field among others.

Mr Katter said Australia once had 16,000 dairy farmers, but that number was now only 6000 –similarly, the number of farmers had dropped from 240,000 to just 83,000 currently.

He said that in the past two years, the price of food had gone up 230 per cent but average weekly earnings had only increased 150 per cent while pensioners’ allowances had only risen 110 per cent.

“In 1990, the average household in Australia spent $92 a week on food, they are now having to spend $279 a week on food,” he said.

“That is a 2020 figure and there has been a huge escalation in food prices in the last two years.

“I find that the CEO at Woolworths is strug gling along at $8 million a year and the CEO at Coles is struggling along at $7.5 million a year.”

New trade bill takes workers out of region

travelling across the pond from the United Kingdom will no longer need to spend 88 days working in regional areas after the Federal Government passed the AustraliaUnited Kingdom Free Trade Agreement Im plementation Bill recently and removed an important labour requirement.

The bill was virtually signed in September 2021 and was passed by the Australian Parlia ment on Monday 21 November but is yet to be signed the UK Parliament and implemented.

Kennedy MP Bob Katter is worried with out the “backpacker clause” included, crucial workers will be drawn out of regional areas.

If passed, the bill would allow people from the UK and Australia to freely work in each other’s countries without needing a working holiday visa, which requires them to spend time working in regional Australian towns.

Mr Katter said without this requirement there would be little to no incentive for back packers to work in regional communities.

“What you've done here is effectively take out the United Kingdom workers completely,” he said.

“They vanish because there's no way they're going to go to a place they've never heard of before in their life, when they can go

to Sydney and hang around on Bondi Beach.”

This is another blow to regional workforces after changes were made to the working holi day maker visa in 2021 that allowed work ers do the required 88 days in hospitality and tourism industries in cities like Cairns which negatively affected areas like Mareeba and Atherton.

With UK workers no longer needing a working holiday visa, FNQ Growers president Joe Moro is concerned even more workers will be taken from rural farms.

“UK workers will no longer have an obliga tion to work in a rural area to get an extension of their visas which means we are going to get a lot less UK backpackers coming through to work in rural areas,” he said.

“We are losing a valuable work resource, the seasonal workers have taken up a lot of the slack but at the same time there still a need for a large number of backpackers to be working in regional Australia.

“Currently they don’t have to come to Mareeba to do their 88 days, they can go to Cairns.”

The bill is yet to be passed by the UK Par liament and will not come into effect until then.

Coles is under fire for recent comments made about growers costs.

KE P W LDCHALUMBIN

Pups need your help

The Association of Australian As sistance Dogs Inc. North Queensland (ASDOGS) is searching for dedicated dog-lovers to help train up their young pups before they are given to people with disabilities to help them undertake some daily tasks and other specific needs.

“Puppy raiser” volunteers are required to house the dog for two years and help with its weekly training before it is given to its recipient.

“We are looking for people who are prepared to care for a dog in their home for about two years,” head trainer Carly Starr said.

“This means (raisers) have to have a gated area for the dog over the two-year period and attend our classes twice a week.

“After the training, the dog is given to a recipient that we have matched with them. Most of the people at ASDOGS are volunteers and we need other volunteers to help us because it is such a big job to raise a dog for two years and then place it with a recipient.”

This job has great importance in a dis abled person’s life, with many struggling

to do day-to-day tasks.

ASDOGS treasurer Rob Fuller says he understands what a difficult job it is but encourages people to consider the ben efits it will have on someone’s life.

“Some people can’t do that job for two years because they get attached,” he said.

“That dog will help (a disabled per son) improve their lifestyle and will help

them do the things that you and I take for granted.

“It can be difficult for them to give the dog up but what we say to them is, that dog is going to change a person’s life for the next 10 years.”

To volunteer at ASDOGS, call Mr Fuller on 07 4092 3344 or visit their web site www.asdogsnq.com.au

Year of development for Douglas Shire

IT was the year for development in the Douglas Shire with coun cil’s recent annual report revealing 265 development applications were made over the past year.

At a recent meeting councillors approved the 2021-22 annual report which looked at key aspects of council’s operations over the past year including key road upgrades and the completion of 71 capital works projects.

Some of the most important capital works’ projects completed were the $1.8 million Killaloe Resource Recovery Centre, the $10 million northern roads package, the Mossman to Cooya Beach Cy cleway and stage one of the Smart Water Meter Program.

Council has also made strides in rectifying their previous $2.9 million operating deficit with the report detailing the deficit now only sits at $601,800.

Douglas Mayor Michael Kerr said the annual report provided an overview of Council’s performance and achievement.

“Douglas has stood tall and emerged in a desirable financial position compared to other similar-sized regions,” he said.

“We have experienced a tourism season like no other, with do

mestic tourists re-discovering our unique pocket of paradise, and council has continued to provide the high level of service expected by locals and travellers.

“The annual report details council’s ability to be prudent finan cial managers and keep delivering for the community.”

The Port Douglas Carnival returned and continued to be a roar ing success, generating about $5.3 million worth of economic ac tivity and contributing to more than 20,000 visitor nights across 10 days in May.

Council also redoubled its efforts in attracting investing in the region and supporting local businesses though the revamped Do It In Douglas campaign.

Mayor Kerr said council’s focus going forward was to continue to deliver critical services and support the community.

“The tourism bounce back has been tremendous and we have seen more domestic visitors here than before the pandemic,” he said.

“Though challenges lay ahead, our strong team is dedicated to serving the community and improving how we do business.”

AN open invitation to attend a non-denominational Christmas Service of Reflection is being made by the Anglican Parish of the Atherton Tablelands.

“The service to be held at St Mary’s Anglican Church, Ver non St, Atherton at 7.30pm on Thursday 15 December is to help those who have lost loved ones and find the Christmas pe

riod confronting, irrespective of their religious beliefs,” Rever end Christine Grimwade said.

“We welcome all who are ex periencing grief and loss to join us for the service.

“This is a chance to take time from the bustle of Christ mas preparations and spare a moment in quiet contemplation honouring that hardship.”

New Yungaburra lots approved

ANOTHER 46 lots will be re leased at Yungaburra’s Water front Estate after Tablelands Regional Council approved the development application for re configuring a lot.

The new lots form Stages 9-12 of the estate, with Stages 1-3 completed, Stages 4-6 cur rently underway, and Stages 7-8 approved but not yet under con struction.

Because the new release has

come on much sooner than ex pected, the developer will have to pay nearly $300,000 to bring forward sewer and water supply works to service the additional lots.

The total cost of infrastruc ture charges for the new stages total $1.127 million.

The lots range in size from 695 sq m to 1321 sq m and fea ture waterfront access to Lake Tinaroo.

Frogs hope to hop to ARIA top spot

THE LOCAL Northern Tinker Frog, Kuranda Tree Frog and many of their musical friends are hoping to hit number one on the ARIA charts for their new 50 track album “Australian Frog Calls: Songs of Disappearance”.

The Bowerbird Collective and the Australian Museum have teamed up to create the unique collection of native frog calls and want help leapfrogging Taylor Swift into the number one position on the Christmas ARIA chart.

The project hopes to bring attention to the endangered spe cies and encourage people to download the FrogID app and record the croaking melodies for research.

“Songs of Disappearance” also highlights that one in six Australian native frog species are currently threatened, with four already sadly extinct.

Kuranda EnviroCare citizen science coordinator Edward Bell has been monitoring the Kuranda Tree frog for over three years through the FrogID app and hopes the album becomes a huge hit.

“I’d love it to replicate the success that the bird themed al bum had last year in the charts,” he said.

“Albums like this are a great way to broaden people's under standing of the rapid loss of bio diversity and extinction of spe cies that is happening every day.

“Aside from the doom as pect though I hope it highlights to people the diversity and complexity of life we have all around us and maybe gets some people who wouldn’t have oth erwise listened out their window at night to listen again and start to appreciate the beauty and complexity of the world we are intricately a part of.”

Songs of Disappearance: Australian Frog Calls is avail able as a digital download or physical CD, which features a 16-page booklet full of wonder ful photography and liner notes.

Proceeds from the album's sales will go towards the Aus tralian Museum’s national FrogID project, helping it con tinue to make giant leaps in frog research and conservation through public recordings.

ASDOG’s head trainer Carly Starr, volunteer Claire Marson, president Helen Fuller and treasurer Rob Fuller with a pup currently being trained to help someone with a physical disability.

New home for Mossman firefighters

FIREFIGHTERS in Mossman have a new place to call home after the $2 million Moss man Fire and Rescue Station was officially opened recently.

The former station was built in 1948 and was no longer fit to purpose and was cited for an upgrade.

Since the upgrades began in 2017, a tem porary station has been operating out of a building provided by Kevin and Danielle Bel lero, who both received an Assistant Commis sioner’s Certificate of Appreciation for their assistance.

The new state-of-the-art facility includes two appliance bays, equipment and breathing apparatus rooms and a practical training area.

Queensland Fire and Emergency Services Deputy Commissioner Mike Wassing said the updated facility would better enable firefight ers to work hand-in-hand with the Mossman

community to prevent and respond to disas ters.

“This is an exciting and important develop ment for the area and the new station will help us continue to meet the growing needs of the community,” he said.

“The range of incidents Mossman firefight ers respond to is vast and this new station is equipped with the latest tools and technology to ensure we continue to meet the needs of the community.”

Member for Cook Cynthia Lui was on hand during the opening and said the project had provided a boost to the local community with six jobs created and local contractors engaged for the construction.

“It is crucial that not only are we getting better services but we also are getting more jobs while ensuring the community is protect ed,” she said.

New healthcare workers for Cape

A QUEENSLAND-FIRST pro gram to attract more healthcare professionals to rural and re mote areas of the state has seen four new registered nurses join the Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service, ready to provide care to people across the Cape.

The nurses are part of the Rural Generalist Registered Nurse Program workforce initi ative which creates a supported learning pathway for registered nurses to practice competently in rural and remote settings.

Participating nurses will complete a four–month place ment in various sites in remote health care facilities in the area while completing theory modules developed by Central Queensland University, Clinical Excellence Queensland and the Cunningham Centre in Toow oomba.

Torres and Cape HHS execu tive director of nursing and mid wifery services Kim Veiwasena vanua said the initiative aimed to encourage more nurses to transition into rural and remote practice.

“It is about building capacity

for nurses working in the rural and remote space and address ing workforce challenges in re cruitment and retention for rural and remote communities,” she said.

“We are very excited to par ticipate in the Rural Generalist program, which complements a

number of initiatives we already have within our health service to attract and retain nursing and midwifery staff.”

Rural Generalist nurse pro gram participant Tahlia Runge is keen to continue working in a rural and remote area after com pleting the program.

Originally from Brisbane, Ms Runge completed her nurs ing degree with the Queensland University of Technology be fore moving to Cairns.

She is currently working at the Napranum Primary Health care Centre near Weipa but will be heading to another facility in January for another rotation.

“I've always wanted to work in rural and remote areas and jumped at the opportunity to be able to gain employment in such areas whilst being supported and given the opportunity to study relevant courses at the same time,” she said.

“I would love to continue working in a rural and remote area on completion of this pro gram and I’m definitely inter ested in staying with the Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service.”

Small town distillers win big

KURANDA gin distillery, Distil on the Hill, is hit ting all the right taste buds this year, taking home silver and bronze medals in the Tasting Australia awards, Australian Gin awards and the Melbourne Royal Distilled Spirits awards.

Since winning a double gold at the San Fran cisco Gin awards, Neddy and Christian Bedwell have been bringing in more and more accolades.

Both their Jindilli and Mandarin gins scored a silver in the 2022 Tasting Australia spirit awards in the contemporary category where they went up against 328 other entries from across the country.

At the Australian Gin Awards, the Bedwell’s Mandarin gin took home a silver whilst the Jindilli took home a bronze.

At their most recent awards, the Melbourne Royal Distilled awards, the Mandarin once again bought home silver whilst the Jinidilli received bronze.

The small distillery has also made appearanc es at popular Cairns night clubs including Dirty Laundry and XS.

Neddy was beyond excited to see her small vil lage distillery in the Kuranda hills bring in several awards and make a name for itself.

With the gin’s popularity continuing to rise, the distillery will be moving into a new home hope fully in the next 12 months to keep up with de mand.

“We are really happy to see people loving our gins and it has been really exciting (winning awards),” Neddy said.

“Now that Christian has finished up full-time work at the mines, we can both focus on our gins and expand into our new space.

“We are working on a new savoury gin now which has pipi shells, apples and thyme.”

Neddy and Christian Bedwell have had a successful few months as a distillery. PHOTO: HEATHER MILLER PHOTOGRAPHY

Rural Generalist nurse program participant Tahlia Runge takes part in first responder training with the Queensland Ambulance Service as part of the new program.

Majestic in Malanda.

First up is the highly an ticipated action adventure drama from Marvel Studios and is the second in the se ries BLACK PANTHER: WA KANDA FOREVER.

Also starting on Friday is the annimated family ac tion adventure STRANGE

WORLD, which is perfect for all ages.

On Sunday we have a special advance screening of PUSS IN BOOTS: THE LAST WISH. There is also a very special screening of the new Avatar Movie AVATAR: THE WAY OF WATER, the day be fore its international release.

You can find all the ses sion times at www.majes tictheatre.com.au

CHRISTMAS is just around the corner and for those looking for something dif ferent to give to family and finds this year, local markets could be just the ticket.

Herberton’s Twilight Christmas Mar ket is first cab off the rank this Satur day, from 3pm to 8pm.

The event will feature craft, plants, unique Christmas gifts, handmade jewellery, and much more.

Santa will be on site at the local hall and nativity display can be viewed out side the library, while Sabine and Tay lor will be making music in the street.

The Atherton Indoor Markets at Merrilands Hall will be held this Sun day from 7am to 12 noon and features a variety of handcrafted goods as well as woodwork, jewellery, local fruit and vegetables and the Lions Book Sale,

with proceeds to go to Ovarian Cancer Research.

The popular Yungaburra Market will be a target for gift buyers this Christ mas, with the last market to be held on 18 December, along with the Malanda Markets from 7.30am at the town’s showgrounds, and the Wondecla Mar kets which will be held at the town’s sports ground from 7am.

On the northern Tablelands, shop pers can find a great Christmas pre sent at one of three Mareeba markets to be held this month.

The Mareeba Markets, held at the town’s Turf Club, is on this Saturday (10 December), as well as the new Make, Bake and Grow Markets at the 100 Park.

The 100 Park Markets will also be held on Saturday 17 December.

AS every business and organisation on the Tablelands gathers for their an nual Christmas party, Tablelands Music Lovers has extended an invitation to lo cals to attend their special Christmas party fundraiser this Saturday at Hal lorans Hill Centre.

There will be raffle prizes, party nibbles, a food van available and of course plenty of music from many of the group’s members.

Music Lovers president Colin Trig

well said is inviting any music loving locals to come along on the night.

“Tablelands Music Lovers invites everyone for a great end of year Christ mas celebration,” he said.

“There will be a special treat with the Tablelands Music Lovers Xmas Choir due to perform followed by The A Street band getting back together for a night of music and fun.

“There will be great food, great mu sic and a bar available so we hope to

see you there.”

Music Lovers’ Bruce Thompson will also host a preview performance of his upcoming rock concert play due to pre miere next year.

There will be $10 entrance fee which will be going towards production costs for the “Blood On The Frets” concert.

Music Lovers is also asking those planning to attend to come dressed “christmasy” to get into the festive spirit.

Mrs Claus and Santa at last years Herberton’s Twilight Christmas Market.

Tradition alive with Yungaburra carols

AS Christmas draws closer, local Yungaburra resi dents will gather at the town’s rotunda for an annual traditional Christmas Carols event held by the Lake side Community Church this Saturday.

Locals are invited to come along from 6pm and enjoy a sausage sizzle, with the entertainment to start from 7pm.

The event will provide locals with an opportunity to sing their favourite carols alongside musicians and singers, with the Yungaburra Primary School stu dents performing a song for the community as well.

Pastor Jeff Lawson said traditional Christmas Carols would be sung to celebrate the real reason for Christmas.

“This is a family friendly event and if you are considering coming, bring a chair or rug,” he said.

“Anyone is welcome to attend, from the young, to the elderly.

“Whether you are a resident of the Atherton Ta blelands, or just visiting, you are welcome to come along and share a special time with our community.”

Updated information will be available on the Lakeside Community Church Yungaburra Facebook page.

Atherton Christmas carols to light up hall

GET into the Christmas spirit this Saturday when Carols by Candlelight will be staged at Atherton’s Merriland Hall.

Hosted by the Atherton Agricultural Society, the annual event kicks off at 6.30pm, with attendees en couraged to bring a chair or blanket and enjoy the entertainment.

Families can get a photo with Santa and Tony the Pony for $5, with $1 from every photo sold going to the Mayor's Christmas Appeal.

Food, drink and candles will be on sale, as well as Christmas raffles, lucky door prizes and more.

There will also a traditional Bavarian Dance by Carol and Albert who have been dancing for over 25 years.

Bring a chair or blanket and enjoy a 'dry' night singing Carols along with Dani Riding, Joe and Wendy Paronella.

Mareeba Rotary Carols by Candlelight

AgForce opposes flawed reef report

nant vegetation, according to State Government SLATS data from 2019.

The UNESCO report urges “ambitious, rapid and sustained” action on climate change to pro tect the Reef, and recommends a review of native vegetation clearing of non-remnant areas with in creased regulations across Reef areas.

It has paved the way for activists to again blame agriculture runoff for coral deaths.

Saddened by this latest attack, AgForce CEO Michael Guerin said the organisation strongly opposed the report’s recommendation and said the only way forward was to establish an inde pendent office to ensure the science that under pins Reef regulations is up to date.

“It’s disappointing to see that reef manage ment has been hijacked yet again by climate change activists seeking to vilify farmers,” he said.

“No one understands the importance of pro tecting the reef better than farmers in reef catch ments.

“However, the reality of the situation is that the reef is in good condition and showing resil ience.

“According to the Australian Institute of Ma rine Science’s long term monitoring program, hard coral cover is at a 36-year high across twothirds of the Reef.

“What’s more, land clearing in reef catch ments is not a risk either, with three of the six catchments showing more than 70 per cent rem

“It’s high time the anti-agriculture brigade stopped cherry picking the science and jumping on every flawed report in order to spread lies about farmers.”

The latest research from the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority (GBRMPA) con firms the biggest impacts to Reef health are ris ing ocean temperatures due to climate change, damaging tropical cyclones, and crown-of-thorns starfish outbreaks - not agriculture runoff.

Water quality science conducted by TropWater at James Cook University has proven suspended sediment settles out in river deltas and along in ner shore reefs within 60km of the coastline - it doesn’t even reach mid and outer coral reefs.

Emerging Reef science has also shown there are multiple natural sources of nitrogen in water courses, and fertiliser use is a very small compo nent of nutrient sources.

In addition, the UNESCO report has totally ignored the influence of tidal currents moving warm ocean water around. Ocean currents are not human-induced, they are part of international weather systems.

The 2022 independent review of the State Government's Reef Scientific Consensus State ment is now underway, with the final report due for release in April 2023.

AgForce believes The World Heritage Com mittee should consider this evidence-based scien tific report while deliberating about the condition of the Reef World Heritage area.

Fixing gullies, gaining skills

MORE than $1.3 million has been awarded to Cape York Natural Resource Management to coordinate gully erosion remediation on sta tions near Cooktown and provide skills devel opment and job opportunities for First Nations people.

The funding comes under the Reef Assist 2.0 program which focuses on creating job opportunities and improving water quality by reducing sediment and nutrient loads in runoff to the Great Barrier Reef.

Both Normanby and Melsonby Station have been marked as the two stations to have gully erosion remediation work done through the new program, The Cape York Gully Reme diation and Creation of Indigenous Employ ment Pathways Project.

Cape York NRM’s Sustainable Industries and Water Quality Manager Michael Goddard said the funding will allow an extension of the work already done at Normanby Station.

“This is a fantastic opportunity to extend the work we have been doing with the Nor manby Station crew,” he said.

“Gully erosion remediation has proved to be a great success in terms of reducing the

amount of sediment that runs into the reef.

“We also have a proven track record in as sisting Indigenous trainees obtain their heavy machinery tickets and increase land manage ment knowledge.”

The project will run over two years with delivery of training carried out on–country in partnership with the Normanby Aboriginal Corporation, MAC Training Solutions, Neilly Group Engineering and R N L Contracting.

“Erosion sites on Normanby and Melson by Station will be remediated during training events and project participants can gain valu able Level 1 Machine Operator accreditation,” Mr Goddard said.

“As well as machinery training on site, we will also be providing support for participants to create resumes and cover letters for job ap plications, and incorporating cultural heritage development through Indigenous mentoring and cultural land management practices, such as cultural burning.”

The gully work will involve headcut stabi lisation, through construction of rock chutes and diversion banks. This will be followed by revegetation of the sites' native grasses.

Over $1.3 million awarded to Cape York Natural Resource Management will allow the group to coordinate gully erosion remediation on stations near Cooktown.

Winning butcher keeps it local

BY SALLY TURLEY

GLENN Plath, who bought the Yungaburra Butchery just over eight and a half years ago, said he “wasn't fussed” about entering the recently run 'Best Beef Awards,' but finally got around to it after three gentle reminders from competition organiser, Cailan Byrnes.

“It was the first meat industry contest I have ever been in and the results certainly weren't what I was expecting. I knew the British White cattle I was buying off Peter and Jacki Reeves were good, but there was a lot of competition,” he said.

“My engraved winner's plaque should arrive next week, in time for me to start selling the aged, prime cuts from the winning carcase. I don't think they will take too long to go,” he grinned.

“I have known Peter since I was a kid and have bought quite a few cattle off him over the years. He just calls me when he has some ready. I go out and have a look at them in the yards, and draft up what I need.

“I have had a bit to do with the British White cattle too, I ran into a few of them when I had my mobile butchering business and I noticed the car casses always had the right amount of everything – they were always plump, had good marbling and fat coverage, with minimal waste,” Glenn said.

Glenn has been around cattle all his life, grow ing up on Springmount Station near Mutchilba, before working on cattle properties like “Dutton River,” outside Hughenden and “Olivevale Sta

tion” near Laura.

“This award was great because it gives butch ers a bit of recognition for what they do and it highlights the quality of meat we have here on the Tablelands,” he said.

“I always try to source good, soft Tableland, grass-fed beef to put through my shop.

“I figure if I am going to be in this business, I should offer customers something different from what they can get in a supermarket. A lot of butch er shops just buy carton beef, but I believe cus tomers are now looking for something else.

“A lot of customers ask us if the meat is sourced and processed here. The grey nomads want to localise their eating experience as they travel through our region and the locals want to support their farming community.

“We always get a lot of good comments from our customers about the meat. I have a lady who comes up from Cairns every few months, she brings her esky and fills it up each time. Covid has changed the way people shop, they have no limits, they just stock up so they aren't caught out in an emergency.

“Grass fed beef tastes completely different to grain fed, so I don’t chase smaller or grain fed animals. That meat just doesn’t have the flavour I want. I look for 2 tooth, grass fed, 30 to 36 month old animals that will dress out to 330kg.

“I buy a lot of Droughtmaster cattle. They are an honest breed, but I don't think it is so much about the breed, I judge them more on their qual

ity. They have to be by good bulls and they have to be still going forward,” he said.

“A pure Brahman animal in the right condition, with the right combination of genetics, that is still putting on weight will still eat very well. I believe a three-year-old bullock deserves three weeks ag ing, then once its cryovaced for a while, it will just melt in your mouth.

“The animal itself is important, but what hap pens before and after I buy it matters a lot. Its treatment from weaning on wards affects its eating quality, as well as the techniques we use during processing.

“Butchering has changed a lot over the last few years. I sell mainly fresh briskets for pulled beef these days, hardly anyone

Grants to boost invasive pest management

LOCAL councils across Far North Queensland will receive grants totalling more than $400,000 to support collabora tion and build capability in invasive pest management.

Minister for Agricultural Industry Development and Fisheries and Minister for Rural Communities Mark Furner said four projects had been successful in get ting funding through the Enhancing Local Government Biosecurity Capacity (EL GBC) program.

“Far North Queensland is particularly

vulnerable to biosecurity threats, due to its proximity to international borders and high levels of tourism,” Mr Furner said.

“Grants awarded under the ELGBC program will encourage local level partic ipation and a coordinated group approach to build stronger working relationships and enhance biosecurity capacity.”

Member for Cook Cynthia Lui said the funding would see Far North Queens land councils work together to plan and manage invasive pests across broad land scapes and multiple boundaries.

“Each of the successful projects will improve collaboration in regional pest management, and work towards provid ing a legacy of co-operation and partner ship,” Ms Lui said.

The successful applicants are: Far West Queensland Regional Organisa tion of Councils Inc., Kowanyama Abo riginal Shire Council, Far North Queens land Regional Organisation of Councils (representing 12 member councils from Hinchinbrook to Cooktown), and Torres Strait Island Regional Council.

wants corned meat any more. A lot of minor cuts like beef cheeks, pork belly and collar butts have become big ticket items for slow cooking and glu ten free, crumbed products are in big demand.

“I have changed occupations a few times over the years since finishing my apprenticeship, but I always came back to my trade. I think I am about ready to take another one of those breaks right now, just sell up and go fishing for six months,” he said.

The Yungaburra “purveyor of fine meats” who started as the “clean up boy” at Bones Knob Butchery 35 years ago, has just been identified by the Meat and Livestock Australia grading system as the butcher supplying the best beef produced in Far North Queensland...

Yungaburra master butcher, Glenn Plath serves regular customers, Layla and Matthew Kreis, at his award winning shop.

Rotary in business

IN 1905, Paul Harris organized the first Rotary Club meeting ‘in fellowship and friendship’ with three clients and local businessmen, Silvester Schele, Gustavus Loehr, and Hiram Shorey.

They gathered in downtown Chicago at Loehr’s office in Room 711 of the Unity Building. Harris envisioned a place where diverse professionals could exchange ideas and form meaningful, lifelong friendships.

That commitment to bringing young men longing for fellowship together en dures today through an organization that has well and truly expanded beyond Chi cago. Only 16 years after being founded, Rotary had clubs on six continents. Our members now span the globe, working to solve some of our world’s most challenging problems.

Rotary International has seven areas of focus — promoting peace, fighting disease, providing clean water, saving mothers and children, supporting education, growing lo cal economies and protecting the environ ment.

Paul Harris’ name continues to evoke the passion and support of Rotarians and friends of Rotary. We’re not afraid to dream big and set bold goals. We began our fight against polio in 1979 with a pro

ject to immunize 6 million children in the Philippines. Today, polio remains endemic in only two countries – down from 125 in 1988.

Rotary Mareeba hosts regular business luncheons to facilitate networking and at tract young professionals, business owners and newcomers to town to meet likemind ed people and be part of the community. Lunch meetings give members the flexibil

ity to meet monthly for lunch and partici pate in activities like raising money for the Mayor’s Christmas appeal, presentations by Mayoral candidates and the opportunity to win lucky door prizes .

Come along to the Mareeba Rotary in Business Christmas Luncheon at The Gate way tomorrow, Thursday 8 December at 12noon or email stacey@idaportella.com.

au

PHOTO OF THE WEEK

VOCAL LOCAL

With rumours swirling in the community that Atherton’s big department store Big W was moving, which was confirmed to be false, we asked locals what store, if any, would they like to see on the Tablelands.

Locals took to our Facebook post and the community noticeboards and discuss what they though the Tablelands was lacking and what could fill that hole.

Aldi would be amazing – Magi Giger

More clothing stores that cater to a diverse age group would be great. Best and less would be great or even Target again – Tammryn Petersen

Not retail but a timezone or a jump mania type place would be great - give my kid and friends something to do when weather not great – Kristy Sherwell

No franchises that duplicate what our local small businesses already sell. Bunnings in Atherton is good, however we lost the local Mitre 10 store. We need to keep our small-medium family run businesses alive. They simply cannot complete with the buying power of the large franchises – Jill Cowie-Taylor

Report online

HAVE you reported a crime to Policelink recently, and do you have CCTV, dashcam footage or photos of the in cident?

Has a Policelink opera tor or Police Officer asked you to send them the footage through either Axon Citizen or Evidence.com?

Not sure what it is all about?

In March 2022, the Queensland Police Service became the largest user of Axon Citizen by implement ing a technology product that allows the community to eas ily upload digital evidence such as photos and videos to a secure location.

Axon Citizen has made it easier than ever for the Queensland Police Service to collect and manage evi dence from the community.

If you have reported a matter via Policelink either online or via phone, then you will receive an invitation ei ther to your email or mobile

phone, asking you to submit that media evidence.

Using Axon Citizen has made policing more efficient than ever as it results in evi dence being made available to investigating officers al most immediately.

The process is quick, safe and secure.

The Queensland Police Service will never send un solicited emails or text mes sages to you. You should only be receiving an email or text if you have reported something or had an interac tion with a police officer.

With Policelink sending out over 2,700 requests per week, the introduction of the invite function means less time is spent during evidence collection, speeding up the process of having offenders charged.

If you capture an offence, Pause. Think. Search Po licelink and make a report online.

BY POLLY FENTON

This shot was captured recently in the amazing Redwood Forest near Warburton in Victoria.

It was a dawn shoot, so that I could get the best of the suns rays thru the forest, as once it is overhead it becomes quite dark.

Shot with a Fuji XT4, ISO 1600, @ 18mm, F5.6, 1/50 sec.

Not a store as such, but I miss a good restaurant with freshly cooked food and good variety, not deep fried bistro meals – Carol Carleton

There are so many things that would be great in Mareeba, but we definitely need more things for kids. Bowling, roller skating, games arcade, movies, sports centre etc… – Vi Petersen

Hungry jacks, Coles, kmart, a cinema, indoor skate park – Jemma Blochowiak

Something for the teens. Jay jays or something of the sort – Samantha Best

Kmart for sure – Zoe Maree

Arcades and more bowling alleys, something for the kids – Karlie Ann Ginn

We need big W in Mareeba so we don’t have to go to atown – Wendy Clarry Hudson

Definitely BCF, lots of fisherman on the tablelands – Laura De Lai

A couple, of stylish women’s wear shops, a proper toy shop, another shoe shop – Julie Power

Clothing for larger people – Maria Do Carmo Rayment

Event cinema – Trish Schmid Moodie

We need ally or valley girl – Jane Payne

A skate rink for the kids. A bigger Kmart. And target again maybe Aldi – Nykita Turchet

More bowling alleys and Arcades for the kids

– Karlie Ann Ginn

Atherton Tablelands & Mareeba 96.7FM Amrun 94.1FM • Aurukun 107.7FM

Coen102.7FM • Cooktown 96.9FM Doomadgee 105.3FM Kowanyama 107.7FM Lakeland 100.5FM

Lockhart River 107.7FM

Mapoon 101.3FM Mornington Island 107.7FM Pormpuraaw 106.1FM

Napranum/Weipa 94.5FM

Normanton 98.5FM • NPA 91.9FM Woorabinda 99.7FM

Wujal Wujal 107.7FM Yarrabah 92.9FM

Rotary members, friends of Rotary and the business community came together for a recent luncheon to network and explore opportunities to support the community.

• Average rainfall of 2,200mm, 1 main dam, 3 main tanks, several troughs + several seasonal creeks and springs

• Fenced, covered cattle yards with 3-way draft, spray race, feedlot troughing and loading ramp

• Substantial 4 bedroom homestead, second 2 bed room residence, machinery

Unique 5 acres in Tolga

IF you are tired of your neigh bours and want space for your children to run and explore or want to enjoy sustainable liv ing for better health for your family, then this 2ha property is for you.

Being a 5 acre block you also have the potential to subdivide into two lots sub ject to council approval.

This huge solid 2 storey home has 4 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms on the upper level, the internal stairs lead to the living area of lounge, dining and updated kitchen.

The full wrap around ve randa along with multiple rooms capture the northerly views which are just a few of the standout features on of fer.

This property is perfect for the lifestyle buyer with room to have ponies, cattle and more.

This is an excellent prop erty to raise a family and is the first time offered for sale in decades and is ready for new owners to enjoy.

The property also lends itself to a supplemented in

come with two self-contained studios / guest rooms that can be tenanted with both having individual separate access.

Property features include:

• Massive two storey home perched on 5 acres

• Open plan living upstairs with high ceilings, 4 bed rooms, ensuite and second bathroom

• Full wrap around veran da taking in northern valley views

• Two separate self-con tained studios downstairs,

both with kitchenette and bathroom

• Double lockup garage

• Separate office or sew ing room downstairs

• 4kw solar system

• Solar hot water

• 3 x rainwater tanks

• Established in-ground and raised veggie garden beds

• 12m x 7m fully enclosed Colorbond shed with power

• 9m x 6m fully enclosed Colorbond shed

• 2 x garden sheds

• All weather concrete

driveway

• Fenced into 5 sepa rate paddocks all with water troughs connected 5 acre property such as this is simply waiting for the next owner to add their own style and touches; coupled with an excellent and unique

block this property is well worth a look.

To arrange your private inspection or for further details Contact exclusive marketing agent Rino Gava on 0427 779 086.

THIS stylish 3 bedroom plus office, 250m2 home pre sents as new and offers an effortless, elegant lifestyle just minutes from all town facilities. Located at The Rise Country Estate and positioned on a substantial 3,725m2 allotment you’ll en joy views of the surrounding area as well as cool breezes and stunning sunsets.

The home features a spa cious, open plan layout plus the benefit of a 3 car garage as well as the following fea tures:

• Stylish vinyl plank floor ing in the living areas & car peted bedrooms for warmth

• Fully reverse cycle split system air-conditioned

• Master bedroom with generous ensuite, WIR & patio access plus a private courtyard off the ensuite

• Mirrored built-in robes in bedrooms 2 & 3

• Air-conditioned

office/2nd living area

• Modern kitchen with 900mm cooktop & oven, stainless steel canopy rangehood, pantry & glass feature cabinets

• Main bathroom with shower & separate plunge bath

• Laundry with built-in cabinetry & 2 door linen stor age

• Tinted lockable windows & security screens through out

• Large rear patio with TV point

• Security cameras, ex ternal LED spotlights, Foxtel dish & NBN connection

• Bore + partial auto irriga

tion & drippers on the bound ary trees

• Gabion cage & color bond feature front fence

• Fully fenced 3,725m2 al lotment with 2nd fenced area at the rear for dogs

If you’ve been wanting to enjoy a tranquil country lifestyle without sacrificing all the modern convenienc es.….. your wait is over.

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

For further information or to arrange a private in spection please contact exclusive agent Joe Torrisi on 0417 700 468.

Address: 11 Catherine Atherton Drive, MAREEBA

Price: Offers over $640,000

Agent: EXCLUSIVE to Joe Torrisi

Joe Torrisi Real Estate Contact: 0417 700 468

• Security screens, tinted windows & custom-made window furnishings through out

• Substantial, tiled patio di rectly off the living area with slide down blinds plus an ex tra 5.5m x 8m extension with exposed aggregate flooring

• Split system solar hot water & 3kw solar power sys tem

• Double garage with 5m x 2.4m tiled storeroom

trees & the added privacy of having no rear neighbours

The extensive list of qual ity features and stylish floor plan will impress. Inspection is highly recommended.

Open for inspection this

Saturday from 10am to 11am.

For further information or to arrange a private inspection please call exclusive agent Joe Torrisi PH: 0417 700 468.

WELCOME to your styl ish, near new home. Set in Amaroo Park Estate and surrounded by other qual ity homes it's not just an ad dress…..it's a lifestyle! This 4 bedroom residence presents as new & encompasses crisp, neutral colour schemes & quality fixtures & fittings as well as a practical, stylish floor plan incorporating every conceivable extra.

Features include:

• Approx 386m2 floorplan including a 44m2 extended patio area

• Fully tiled throughout with large open plan living area

• Closed media/lounge off the living area

• Master bedroom with stylish his & hers ensuite & sizeable walk-in robe

• Gourmet central kitchen with substantial walk-in pan try, glass splashback, stone bench tops incorporating waterfall ends, breakfast bar, plumbed in fridge space & superior appliances includ ing a 900mm Ilve freestand ing oven with gas cooktop & Bosch stainless steel dish washer

• Separate formal dining room with custom built cabi netry

• Elegant main bathroom with shower & separate plunge bath plus external vanity

• Generous laundry with built-in cabinetry & multiple hallway storage cupboards

• 3rd toilet with easy ac cess from the entertainment area

• Exposed aggregate driveway & 800mm wide ce ment pathways all round

• Roll down sun protection blinds on the western win dows

• Fully fenced and immac ulately landscaped 1284m2 allotment with double gated side access, automatic popup irrigation, rear garden area with an assortment of fruit

Address: 18 Amaroo Drive, MAREEBA

Price: Offers over $665,000 Agent: EXCLUSIVE to Joe Torrisi Joe Torrisi Real Estate Contact: 0417 700 468

STAGE 3 and 4 of Sunset Ridge is now complete and ready to build.

With 15 lots purchased off the plan there are only 5 more lots in this stage ready to purchase.

All blocks are serviced with underground power, wa ter and sewerage and the siz es and prices of the remain ing lots are as follows: • Lot 69 884m2 $155,000

• Lot 92 965m2 $158,000

• Lot 96 884m2 $155,000

Take a drive and see for yourself, with beautiful new homes already completed, Sunset Ridge is a wonderful place to call home for fami lies, first home buyers and retirees.

Nestled around the Mazlin Creek and boasting mountain views this is town living at its best.

The estate maintains its country town feel with over

3 acres preserved for park lands and meandering path ways along the forest/creek backdrop. We invite you to contact us for more information, Cov enants and Contour Plans

Very solid duplex

ARE you a keen inves tor looking for a property to value-add to your portfolio?

Look no further as we have found it for you. Welcome to 30 Vaughan Street, Mareeba.

With rental prices on the rise and vacancy rates at an all-time low, it is no surprise that investors are looking to property to build their wealth for the future. And when it comes to residential property investments, there's nothing better than multi-unit dwell ings.

This Duplex is constructed of masonry block, and fea tures masonry block internal walls as well, making it a very solid investment, ensuring that it will require very mini mal work internally apart from cosmetics.

Recently repainted in

side, both units have been vacated prior to sale and both have been given some TLC in preparation to go on the market. However, with the current conditions in the rental market, they will not be vacant for long!

Each unit has 2 great bed rooms and one bathroom with a separate toilet. They each have an open plan kitchen and dining area and spacious living areas. Both have separately fenced back yards, rear and front patios, and a carport as well.

Each Unit Features:

• Masonry block construc tion

• Recently repainted in side

• New lights and fans in stalled

• Two good sized bed

rooms

• One bathroom with shower and separate toilet

• Storage/linen cupboards in the bathroom

• Open plan kitchen and dining room

• Spacious lounge room

• Front and rear covered patios

• Single carports and sep arately fenced back yards

• An independent rental appraisal is available

With the current rental market, demand for multi-unit dwellings is on the rise.

You know this one won't last long, so for more in

formation, or to book your own private inspection, call Exclusive Agent Remo Es

posito on 0401 969 473 or drop into the Central Realty office today.

Address: 30 Vaughan Street, MAREEBA

Price: $360,000

Agent: EXCLUSIVE to Remo Esposito Central Realty Mareeba

Contact: 0401 969 473

Prime acreage

Considered a once in a

Perfect

THIS classic five-bedroom home is perfectly positioned on a large 1,012m2 allotment and conveniently located within walking distance to Atherton Town Centre. This home has loads of potential and options including an ex cellent investment opportu nity or a fantastic home for a family to enjoy.

Features Include;

• 5 bedroom timber home

• Bedroom (5) with a kitch enette and Bedroom (3) with a built-in desk

• 2 bathrooms, 1 bathroom recently renovated

• One section of the home can be shut off (has its own entry point plus access from the main house). Perfect space for an Airbnb, rent out to a tenant, teenage retreat, or for the extended family.

• Open plan living

• Central kitchen with tim ber bench tops, breakfast bar, dishwasher & a freestanding oven

• Formal dining room with built-in cupboards

• Internal laundry

• Polished timber floors, high ceilings & ceiling fans throughout home

• Entertainment deck with a bathtub overlooking rear gardens – Entertain in pri vacy!

• 2 bay enclosed carport

• Lockable workshop/stor age shed with cement floor ing

• Chook pen

• Fenced backyard with vehicle side access

• Large 1,012m2 allotment

This home is truly position perfect! Walking distance to Atherton Town Centre.

For further information or to arrange an inspection, call exclusive marketing agent Raquel at Sommer set Realty on 0408 983 879.

BIG

SEARCH CROSSWORD

24 a repeated or additional performance of an item at the end of a concert, as called for by an audience.

Down

1 a legislator.

2 wealthy and fashionable people who travel widely and frequently for pleasure. (3,3)

3 an Italian dessert consisting of layers of sponge cake soaked in coffee and brandy or liqueur with powdered chocolate and mascarpone cheese.

4 ill-treat. (3,3)

6 pretentious or snobbish in manner or speech. (3,2,3)

7 a piece of information given in a discreet or confidential way. (3.3)

Across 5 the later part of a normal life. (3,3)

a million, million, million.

an indication of satisfaction or approval. (6,2)

the ability to make good judgements and quick decision making. 11 an office or kiosk where tickets are sold. (6,6)

soft fatty substance in the cavity of bones.

final or eventual outcome of a discussion, action or series of events.

determined to do as one wants even if other people advise against it.(6,6) 21 a prefabricated building 22 (in Spanish speaking regions) a large estate or plantation with a dwelling house. 23 a parasitic flatworm, the adult of which lives in the intestines.

8 submit to the authority of (someone) or comply with (a law).

12 a bullfighter, especially one on horseback.

14 a single file containing several different types of related information as separate worksheets.

16 the possession of assets in excess of liabilities; ability to pay one’s debts.

17 a rousing or uplifting song identified with a particular group, body, or cause.

18 make or become less severe.

19 pliable twigs, typically of willow, plaited or woven to make items such as furniture and baskets.

20 a colourless crystalline compound which is the main nitrogenous breakdown product in mammals and is excreted in urine.

Mar 21 - Apr 19

This week, it’s clear when you need to hold & when you need to pivot. You’ll get the right information at the right time to make those long term plans. You’ll make quick heart decisions this week & no obstacle will be insurmountable.

JUN 21 - JUL 22

This week, you could remake your personal space as well as yourself. You’ll make great headway in reorgansing, tidying and creating a beautiful & efficient space. Light will be shed in the workplace on someone that has been playing games.

sep 23 - oct 22

This week, you’re getting things done. You’re firing on all cylinders, just don’t leave things to the last minute. Your optimism might not quite match the time frame. Later in the week watch out for contentious people who want to argue for the sake of it.

Dec 22 - Jan 19

This week, creativity reigns supreme. Your imagination is running wild. Any creative endeavour you put your hand to this week will flow out of you so naturally. At work someone could want to have a closer relationship with you.

apr 20 - may 20

This week, opportunities will come from every direction. You might be feeling optimistic about a piece of news you receive, but be sure to not only look at the upside. Even if you can’t change much, stand your ground.

JUL 23 - AUG 22

This week, romance is a possibility. It might be time to step outside & join the social world again. There could be a relationship change with a younger relative. This is a very special time in this relationship. Nurture it.

oct 23 - nov 21

This week, an increase in finances is possible. Watch out for confirmation biad when researching a big ticket item. You might want to check out the negative reviews as well to ensure you’re taking a balanced approach.

Jan 20 - Feb 18

This week, a friend makes things easier for you. This is an excellent time to nurture this friendship, they are really going to come through for you. You could also come across someone that is so attentive that you feel taken aback, take it easy.

May 21 - Jun 20

This week, messages are coming in many forms. You have so many ideas, you need a structure to build them on. This week you could connect with someone who can provide that. Later in the week someone close might need a hug, not a lecture.

Aug 23 -Sep 22

This week, the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree. You might be feeling a connection to your ancestors which could end up in you delving into the family tree and discovering something fascinating. You could even stumble across a long lost relative.

nov 22 - dec 21

This week, you’re making great headway. Personally with releasing grudges & insecurities. At work with knowing which direction to take & with some difficult choices finally paying off. Now you’re ready to lean in & move forward with gusto.

Feb 19 - Mar 20

This week, a new possibility is opening up for you. A supervisor might let you know that they have big plans for you. A new position could be opening up or a shift in arrangements. Regardless of how it looks, there’s change in the air.

Mareeba Anglican Church Sunday 19 December, 2022 @ 7.00pm Lessons and Carols The Story of Christmas Sunday 25 December, 2022 @ 8:30am Christmas Day Service

ALL WELCOME! 51 Constance Street, Mareeba

Presbyterians

meet in Mareeba for Worship

Each Sunday 10am, QCWA Hall, Wilkes Street (behind Meals on Wheels). All welcome!

Christmas Season Continues

On Sunday 11 December 2022

Why Jesus Came #2

Wednesday 14 December at 7.00pm:

CHRISTMAS CAROLS

Outdoors at Mooraridgi Park, Cummings Street, Mareeba. All welcome! This is a COVID safe event

“Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David.” (Luke 2:4)

THANKS

MARY

DEATH NOTICE

ROOTS, Janice Joyce

Passed away peacefully at Herberton Hospital on the 29th of November, 2022.

Aged 81 years.

Beloved Wife of William (Dec.) Much loved Sister of Lenore (Sue). Loving Aunt of Jennifer Smith, Janette & Jim Hamilton and their family. Privately cremated.

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

WITH LOVE AND GRATITUDE

I wish to express my gratitude to all the first responders, ambulance, public and the doc tors and staff of Atherton hospital. You all assisted me after my car accident near Gallos on 28th March. Thank you! Without your im mediate help and the grace of God I would not be writing this. Please know I bless you all.

To local people, The Lions Club of Yung aburra and Malanda for your assistance and advice, the Lake Eacham Swimmers for your uplifting hugs and encouragement, thank you. Especially Margaret and Peter Wilson who transported me to the lake to swim back to health for 6 months until I now have a new car. You were my savours. Thank you. And most of all, my beloved daughter Fiona who flew immediately from Brisbane and was by my side. With her expert medical train ing she took care of me at home for the next 2 months until I was “solo” again and strong and independent. My love is deeper than I can express, thank you darling.

So to ALL YOU BEAUTIFUL HUMAN BEINGS, may you be eternally blessed with light, love, peace and harmony always.

THE FAMILY OF Helen Cozens

Passed 12th November, 2022.

Would like to extend their sincere thanks for the kindness, condolences and support received.

Also thank you to the Louise and Alice Street Doctors, Cairns and Atherton Hospitals and Oncology Departments. We also send our appreciation to the caring staff at Carinya.

Thanks to Rev. Mrs Christine Grimwade and the team at Guilfoyle’s Funerals for a beautiful memorial service.

Stanley Fisher

12th March, 193710th December, 2021 Dad, Your life was a blessing, Your memory a treasure. You are loved beyond words, And missed beyond measure.

Gino Michelino Quintieri

AHLERS, Michael Stanley Vincent

31.12.1984 ~ 08.12.1992

“The wind of love blows softly, In a quiet & peaceful place.

Where they laid out precious Michael, 30 years ago today.

Time may hide the darkness, Like smiles hide the tears.

But all our beautiful memories, Of you will last throughout the years.” Forever loved & missed by your loving family Mum, Alan, Pamela & Ryan.

CUB CADET RIDE ON MOWER

Li-ion battery, rechargeable, mows an acre on a single charge. P: 0427 703 141

Hazel Howard, Malanda

QUALIFIED HEAVY DIESEL MECHANIC

An excellent opportunity has become available for a fulltime:

Storeperson/Administration Assistant

Open to consider new trainee and/or experienced candidates.

Key duties will include, but are not limited to:

• Receival and dispatch of chemical and fertilisers

• Forklift duties

• Maintaining a clean and organised store

• Recording and sending soil and tissue samples

• Maintaining safety registers

• Completion of paperwork relevant to duties

• Answering phones and serving customers Working as part of a dynamic team, candidates will need the following:

• Manual Drivers License

• Sound computer skills (microsoft office suite)

• To be punctual and reliable

• A good level of fitness

• Forklift ticket (not essential training will be provided)

Immediate start. Training to be provided for all role requirements. Further study and training options offered to the right candidate. Please send resumes to: bindi@gtag.com.au

Or drop them in to 8 Albrecht St, Tolga.

LOCAL

FARM HAND POSITIONS

Tableland Hydroponics in Tolga is seeking selfmotivated individuals who are willing to learn and keen to get the job done. The role would offer on-going work Monday to Friday 6am Starts. Multiple positions are available. The positions are not suited to Seasonal workers and would suit locals seeking on-going employment.

Phone 0418 260 037 for an interview

For immediate start, MR licence and construction industry white card minimum requirement. Contact Sharon on 0429 775 656

For interview or email your resume to: onlineco@bigpond.net.au

Proposed Development

Make a submission from: 8th December, 2022 to 16th January, 2023 Reconfiguration of a Lot (Boundary Realignment) Where: 841, 963, 965 Bilwon Road, Biboohra Q.4880

On: Lots 2SP297295, 15SP180665 & 18SP297295

Approval Sought: Development Permit Application Ref: RAL/22/0018 You may obtain a copy of the application and make a submission to: Mareeba Shire Council 65 Rankin St. Mareeba Qld. 4880 info@msc.qld.gov.au 07 4086 4657 www.msc.qld.gov.au

Proposed Development

Make a submission from: 7th December, 2022 to 18th January, 2023

Material Change of Use –Nature-Based Tourism

Where: 702 Speewah Road, Speewah On: Lot 622 on SP176565

Approval Sought: Development Permit Application Ref: MCU/22/0023 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 1300 308 461 www.msc.qld.gov.au

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

The Express Christmas Vouchers Giveaway will commence on Monday, 21 November, 2022 and ends at 12 noon on Monday, 12 December, 2022.

The competition is open to all shoppers who purchase products and services from participating outlets. Shoppers are asked to provide their name, address and phone number on the entry forms provided. Only official entry forms provided by the The Express will be accepted as entries.

By entering the competition you are agreeing to allow The Express to publish your name and use any photos which will be taken upon notification of being a winner. The official draw will take place at The Express office at 186 Byrnes Street, Mareeba at 12 Noon on Tuesday, 13 December, 2022

The four winners will each receive 10 fifty dollar ($50) vouchers which are to be spent with the participating businesses only. Vouchers are not redeemable for cash and are not transferable. All vouchers must be used by the date stated on the individual voucher. Any vouchers not redeemed by this time will expire and will not be honoured.

Winners will be notified by phone and published in The Express on Wednesday, 21 December, 2022. Judge’s decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into.

Further details can be obtained by calling The Express office on 4092 3464 during office hours.

‘right first time’ attitude, be reliable, honest, and punctual.

If this sounds like you send your resume to: nik@fnqhub.com.au

Or call direct on 4091 8710 to organise a confidential interview.

for more information.

Players ready to represent

FOUR players, four coaches, two scorers and a manager from Mareeba Cricket will be making their names known at Cricket Far North competi tions across the North in the coming weeks.

The group of cricket club members were se lected amongst some of the best in the region to represent not only Mareeba, but the entirety of the North.

Player Will Hanlon will be part of the U18 side in Mackay, whilst Ryan Jaszczyszyn will take on the U14s in Townsville.

Jake Bombarderi will travel down the hill to Cairns to compete in the U16’s game and young est player, Aston Rosenfeldt will follow Will to Mackay to play for the U12s.

This year’s coaches Angus Campman, Leon

ard Hodges, Brendan Falvo and Grant Hanlon will be following their players across the north.

Campman will be coaching the under 13s, Hodges following Rosenfeldt to the under 12s, Falvo heading to the under 15s and Hanlon coaching the under 12s.

Michelle Bombarderi will be heading to the under 16’s with John Pearce as scorers whilst Ben Jones manages the under 15s.

Mareeba Cricket president Irene Roy said she was proud to have so many members of the club making their names known in the CFN scene.

“I am very proud of all of them and we have done really well this season and I wish I could come with them all,” she said.

Sailing club signs off on year

IT was smiles all around at Tinaroo Sailing Club’s recent Christmas party and presentation day as the club took time to reflect and celebrate on its mem bers’ achievements over the past year.

Santa made his arrival by water and greeted all the young and not so young sailors with some lol lies before the club honoured its club champions.

The Great Feva Race was also hosted on the day as Travis Wadley and Luca and Kamryn Raisin emerged the novelty race’s victors.

If you are interested in being part of the fun next year, keep an eye on the club’s website tinaroosail ingclub.com.au or their Facebook page.

Next year’s season will start with a free discover sailing day at the end of January.

The club also wishes best of luck to all its sail ors competing in the upcoming Sail Brisbane, Sail Sydney, Australian Laser Nationals in Sydney and O’pen Skiff Nationals in Perth.

Laser Full: Scott Ivory

Mono A: Roger Wadley

O’pen Skiff: Amelia Tracey

Bob Wadley Memorial Trophy: Darryl Beattie

SeaGals Trophy: Breanne Wadley Mike Formosa Memorial Trophy: David Mills

Queensland Country Bank Cup: Scott Ivory

Will named youth cup mascot

AFTER barely just one season rolling the arm over for the Atherton Cricket Club, junior Will Watson has been named as the mascot of the U16s Bulls Masters Youth Cup as they play in Cairns this weekend.

The eight-year-old had only just started playing cricket before he had an accident in volving a ride-on lawn mower last year and damaged his legs – he just had a major opera tion on them a few weeks ago.

“The operation was successful but there is nothing saying when he will be back or if he will be back playing cricket,” Atherton Crick et Club president Tony Potts said.

“He went and tried at master blasters but

this season he stepped up to tier one with the hard ball.”

Cricket Far North and Queensland Coun try Cricket both agreed to make Will the mas cot for the U16 Bulls Masters Youth Cup team after Potts’ suggestion.

The team will play other representative teams from across the North over the week end and Will is going to be staying down with and supporting the team during their games.

Atherton already have a healthy number of juniors selected for the U16 side and will now have one of their youngest players as team mascot.

Will Hanlon, Jake Bombardieri, Ashton Rosenfeldt and Ryan Jaszczyszyn will be playing in a variety of CFN competitions in Mackay, Townsville and Cairns.

Tinaroo Sailing Club members Mike Tolley, Roger Wadley, Amelia Tracey, Benjamin and Tristan Rankine, Darryl Beattie, Breanne Wadley and Scott Ivory all received awards at the club’s recent presentation.

Atherton Cricket Club president Tony Potts with young Atherton cricketer Will Watson who has been chosen as the team mascot for the U16s Bulls Masters Youth Cup side due to play in Cairns this weekend.

Harley sets sights on aquathlon success

AQUATHLON champion Har ley Sweeper will be making a splash in Harvey Bay after dom inating peninsula trials and set ting a new record by 28 seconds.

The 11-year-old has been competing in aquathlon for the last 12 months, after discover ing his equal passion for running and swimming and has already made a name for himself in the sporting community.

When competing in peninsu la trials recently, he smashed the record for his age group, setting a new one at 11 minutes and 22 seconds, 37 seconds faster than Ben Bissett from Cairns who took out second place.

“It feels really good and now I hope I can make it to nation als,” Harley said.

“That means doing a lot more training, train harder and faster and do more open water swims.”

Training for Harley consists of swimming with the Mareeba Wildcats and cross country training in Cairns with coach Wal Plath.

His main focus in training at this moment is transitions – the split second he has to put his shoes and running gear on be fore starting the 1km run and vice versa.

Mum Melinda Sweeper has

been by Harley’s side since the beginning and is beyond proud of his efforts.

“He has been working really hard and we are looking forward to training over the school holi days so we can do well at state championships,” she said.

“When he tried out for aquathlon, he had already been successful in cross country, and

he has been swimming for the last couple of years.

“I am really proud of him and how much confidence he has, and I love how much he loves his sport.”

Harley will be heading to Harvey Bay next year to com pete against some of the best on 4 February.

Another victory for Atherton

ATHERTON first grade trav elled to Griffiths Park on Sat urday to face Rovers and took home the win against the fifth seeded team.

After winning the toss and electing to bat, Atherton openers Chris Adams (12) and Mick Raso got off to a steady start until Adams was dismissed in the seventh over with a score of 20.

Mason Blaney fell cheaply for 8 and Tom Boorman for 16 before Pete Sceresini (30) joined Raso at the crease and built a partnership of 93 runs.

Raso’s wicket fell in the 34th over but not before he had scored an entertaining 89 from 91 deliveries including eight 4s and two 6s.

Caleb Constant played a great cameo scoring a run a ball 23 and at the end of their 40 overs, Atherton had posted

Atherton spin bowler and batsman Mason Blaney.

prized scalp of Brenton Ed wards in his 3rd over.

Rovers struggled to build a partnership and wickets continued to fall regularly, with the father son combina tion of Ben (4/20) and Angus Vikionkorpi (1/17) bowling brilliantly to keep the pres sure on.

Blaney finished his 8 overs with figures of 1/10 and Rov ers were only able to reach 109 in their allotted 40 overs.

Atherton will play host to Barron at Loder Park this Sat urday from 12:30pm in their last home game before the Christmas break.

a respectable score of 6/200.

Atherton’s opening bowler Matt Coleman (2/31) set the tone of the Rovers innings picking up a wicket in his 1st over and then claiming the

Barron sit just below Atherton on the table with a three-point difference while only a one point difference keeps Atherton out of second place.

Rainy days for Mareeba

MAREEBA second grade were unable to secure any more points before the Christmas break with their game against Norths Spicy Bite on Sunday being washed out.

Currently out of the nine teams playing in the second grade competition, Mareeba is tied for last place with Cassowary Coast on six points with their nearest team, Rovers, sitting above them on 12 points.

In the top of the ladder race it is a tight com petition between the second, third and fourth placed Mulgrave, Barron and Atherton with just one point separating each of the teams while Mulgrave Punjabi sits atop the table on a com fortable 38 points.

Both Norths teams are sitting in fifth and sixth ahead of Rovers, Mareeba and Cassowary Coast.