The Express Newspaper 11th May 2022

EXPRESS The

Delivering news across our region WEDNESDAY 11 MAY, 2022

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PHOTO BY ELLIE FINK.

MADI DEFIES THE ODDS Mareeba’s Madi Srhoj-Simonato has defied the odds after a mysterious medical illness left her completely paralysed 11 times in five years.

Regardless, she has taken off as a successful personal trainer, pilates and barre instructor, inspired by the physios and specialists who have helped her along the way. FULL STORY PAGE 9.

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MANAGING DIRECTOR Carl Portella

RURAL JOURNALIST Sally Turley

MARKETING Darryl Day

EDITOR Robyn Holmes

JOURNALIST Rhys Thomas

CADET JOURNALIST Ellie Fink

PAPER MANAGER Natasha Srhoj

CIRCULATION 13,000

The Express is published by Portasea Pty Ltd, 141 Constance St, Mareeba QLD 4880. ACN: 141 250 213 Printed by Townsville print centre, 623-645 Flinders St. Townsville QLD 4810

CHILLAGOE, Kuranda and Port Douglas are all finalists in the 2022 Queensland Top Tourism Town Awards and residents are now being urged to cast their vote to determine who takes out the gongs in each category.

Presented by the Queensland Tourism Industry Council, the awards program recognises and celebrates Queensland’s outstanding regional destinations, honouring communities across the State that demonstrate a commitment to visitor excellence.

After an exhaustive judging process by an expert panel, QTIC chief executive officer Brett Fraser says that the Top Tourism Town Award winners will now be decided by the public.

“From a shortlist of 23 exceptional destinations, we’re calling on the public to have their say and to share with us their best-loved Queensland towns,” he said.

“The awards provide the chance to shine the spotlight on our State’s best towns and to honour their resilience and dedication to tourism after the challenges of past three years.”

Chillagoe is one of 10 finalists in the Top Tiny Tourism Town (population below 1500), while Kuranda and Port Douglas are vying to win the Top Small Tourism Town (population 1500-5000) with another four towns competing in that category.

Everyone who casts a vote will have the chance to experience the State’s best destinations when they go in the draw to win a $2,000 Apollo motorhome holiday.

Public voting will close on 23 May, with the winners to be announced on 13 June at an awards ceremony. Go to www.qtic.com.au/top-tourism-award/ top-town-voting/ to vote.

Local kids are being encouraged to get their passports to fishing during an upcoming program at Lake Tinaroo.

Kids passport to fish LOCAL kids for a passion for fishing are encouraged to get their fishing “passports” through a special program run by the Tablelands Fish Stocking Society and International Game Fish Association.

Hosted at Lake Tinaroo on 15 May, kids will learn basic tackle, knot tying, conservation, environmental stewardship, casting, and angling safety during the program.

Once they complete the tasks at each station, they receive a mark on their passports.

After their passports are complete, the young anglers can get a rod and reel to test

their newly acquired skills for the duration of the clinic. Even though the clinic is designed for young anglers, participation by the entire family is highly encouraged and a certificate of recognition will be given to each young fisher at the completion of the clinic.

For further information contact the North Queensland IGFA Representative, Laurie Wright on 4095 2260 or 0427 556 039 or email laurie@australianfishingexpeditions.com More information on passports to fishing is available at igfa.org/passports-tofishing

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$11M pledge on range road issue

Mum’s passion earns national award

A PASSION to raise awareness for moyamoya and strokes has earned Ravenshoe mum and businesswoman Nicola Baker the title of Best Fundraiser of the Year at the National Stroke Foundation Awards.

After her now 18-year-old son Jed was diagnosed with moyamoya at the age of four, Ms Baker set out on a mission to raise awareness and funds for research into the stroke causing disease.

Ms Baker has taken part in many fundraisers, including her Blue Tie Ball which was held over the weekend and has raised thousands of dollars going towards the cause.

She also took part in Stroke Foundation’s physical activity campaign, Stride4Stroke, for the eighth year in a row last year, creating a team which raised almost $5,000.

Ms Baker humbly accepted the award and feels honoured to be recognised.

“I wasn’t able to make it to the actual event as I was doing two fundraisers at the time and I just happened to be at the local cross country when I got the call and they told me I had won,” she said.

“It is super nice to be acknowledged and to help people understand what moyamoya is and how it affects people

Ravenshoe mother Nicola Baker has won the Best Fundraiser of the Year at the National Stroke Foundation Awards, with her son Jed being her inspiration to raise awareness on his diagnosis.

and their lives” Stroke Foundation chief executive officer Sharon McGowan congratulated Ms Baker on her efforts and recognised her inspiration, Jed. “Nicola is demonstrating a lifelong commitment to supporting her son and advocating for research which will help many more people affected by stroke,” Ms McGowan said.

“The indication of just how Nicola’s ongoing efforts have impacted others in the community shone through in the nominations for this award, as so many individuals wrote in to share their admiration and thanks for her work.”

Ms Baker has also been nominated for the “Michelle Commin” Award for Cairns Businesswomen’s Club awards coming up in July.

A $11 million commitment to undertake a preliminary evaluation and business case on upgrading the Kuranda Range Road has been pledged by the LNP in an effort to win over voters in the Kennedy and Leichhardt electorates for the 21 May poll.

The business case will seek to address critical long-term safety and capacity issues as well as an assessment of possible alternative routes including the Reddicliffe Highway proposal which Member for Leichardt Warren Entsch has already indicated is the best alternative on the table.

Progression of the business case is contingent on the Queensland Government matching the funding commitment, announced on Monday.

Deputy Prime Minister Barnaby Joyce said the Kuranda Range Road was a critical link for commuter, commercial and visitor traffic in Tropical North Queensland and it was important to explore options to improve the road.

“This road underpins the commercial viability of primary industries, producers and exporters in the region in providing access to markets through the Cairns air and seaports, and road links to southern markets,” he said.

Mr Entsch said the community was demanding a solution to the issues regarding the Kuranda Range and this was the first step towards identifying viable longterm solutions.

“This can can’t be kicked down the road any longer,” Mr

Entsch said.

“Let’s get the business case done, identify the options and long-term solutions, get them costed and get on with the job of delivering.”

LNP candidate for Kennedy Bryce Macdonald said he was pleased to be part of an LNP team in Far North Queensland that was providing the leadership and resources to find a solution to the long running Kuranda Range Road problem.

“The Palaszczuk Labor Government has failed dismally to demonstrate any leadership when it comes to the Kuranda Range Road, so the Federal Coalition Government now has to step in to progress a solution for Far North Queenslanders,” he said.

“We need this merit-based evaluation and business case process to happen now, because the ‘glossy brochure’ released earlier this year by the Palaszczuk Labor Government, which proposed to do nothing for 30 years, was a disgrace.”

The Coalition Government is contributing $28 million for the Intelligent Transport System (ITS) stations on the Kuranda Range Road.

The ITS stations will complement the existing variable message signs and reduce the number and duration of road closures.

The ITS treatments will also enable Transport and Main Roads to rapidly detect and manage incidents on Kuranda Range Road.

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The Express, Wednesday, May 11, 2022 PAGE 3

Fee waiver rejected QCWA’s 100 A REQUEST by the Mareeba Islamic Society for infrastructure charges worth more than $15,000 to be waived or reduced has been rejected by Mareeba Shire Council.

In January, council approved the establishment of a school at the Islamic education centre which involves building a second storey on the existing building on the corner of Walsh and Lloyd Streets.

The project has incurred $15,680 in infrastructure charges which the society has described as “quite a hefty charge” given the school will only cater to 35 students.

In a letter to council, society treasurer and Imam Benjamin Murat said that as a not-forprofit organisation which “relies on solely on donations from its members to operate” the charges would equate to an additional 10 per cent on the cost of the project.

“The proposed school only envisages having up to 35 and your charge represents $448 per pupil – quite a hefty charge,” he wrote.

“The number of attendants for existing religious classes, pupils and adults amount to approximately 15 to 20. These existing classes are after 3.30pm and in the evenings on 3-4 days per week.

“Having a second floor would allow for these existing religious students to have a permanent place for keeping their materials and aides without having to pack them up to allow for other cultural uses of the hall.”

He explained that the school would operate from the building for up to two years until permanent facilities can be put in place.

However, council officers recommended against changing the charges which are based on its Local Government Infrastructure Plan (LGIP).

“The subject land is within the Priority Infrastructure Area as identified in the Mareeba Shire Council LGIP,” a report to council stated.

“Providing a reduction or waiver of the infrastructure charges for this development would be inequitable to other developers in the shire who have previously paid or are required to pay infrastructure charges once their developments are complete and further, would undermine the ongoing implementation of Council's LGIP. “The charge applied was based on the gross floor area of the school facility and is not considered an onerous charge for what was proposed.”

Council agreed and rejected the request.

Correction to mining story IN last week’s The Express, a headline was incorrect on the article about a $6 million grant for Mt Carbine tungsten mine. The headline stated Mt Garnet but this should have read Mt Carbine.

The Express apologies for any confusion that may have been caused.

years young Lottie Hastie

101-year-old Lottie Hastie OAM is one of the founding members of the Tolga QCWA and is celebrating a century of the organisation and her life.

BY ELLIE FINK FOUNDER and lifelong member of the Tolga Queensland Country Women’s Association, Lottie Hastie OAM, has seen the organisation grow and change as the 101-year-old reflects on the lifelong memories she has made through the group.

QCWA officially celebrates 100 years in operation this year, and Mrs Hastie has also been reflecting on how the group has been a part of her life.

After moving to Tolga when she was just 16 years old, Mrs Hastie soon fell in love with the small town and later settled in an old Queenslander, which she still resides in today.

At the age of 20, she married her late husband and found herself joining a group of women who took time out of their day to feed and socialise with returning soldiers.

For two years, the small group of women - Mrs Ingram, Mrs Bradford, Mrs Cochran, Mrs Daley, Mrs Williams, Mrs Whelan, Mrs Crossman and Mrs Hastie – opened up the hall and cooked for the gentlemen.

“There were some ladies who used the QCWA hall in the main street when it was just a little house to welcome soldiers in at night and sit and read, play cards or do whatever and we started to serve them a cuppa or a sausage roll,” Mrs Hastie said.

“Back then, the ladies hadn’t had a meeting in about five years because no one would take office, so we weren’t actually QCWA members yet until the State office called to have a meeting to close down the branch altogether.

“That’s when Mrs Ingram said to me and Mrs Whelan ‘if I take the role of president, would you join in office?’, so I took on the role of secretary treasurer and before long we managed to get 25 members.”

At the age of 21, Mrs Hastie was learning quickly what it took to be in office and took on many responsibilities to keep the Tolga QCWA going for the next 78 years.

Memberships continued to rise, and Mrs Hastie soon found her rank was rising too, being promoted to president for the division and vice president for all of Queensland.

Some of her favourite memories from those responsibilities was travelling to conferences across the globe and the exposure to different cultures.

In particularly, Mrs Hastie fell in love with the Māori culture in New Zealand and says she will never forget the day she went to a conference where they all broke out into song.

“I just loved the first conference I went to in New Zealand and the island women sat down and burst into song,” she said.

“It was so beautiful. I used to just stand there and listen to them because it

was so lovely.

“I’ve been back seven times since then.”

Mrs Hastie also recalled some of her favourite travels with the QCWA, visiting Tasmania, Darwin and Toowoomba as well as travelling to Fiji.

She also visited Toowoomba, the birthplace of the QCWA, a decade ago for the 90th anniversary of the organisation and says she is “playing it by ear” as to whether she goes down for the 100th.

Through her achievements in the QCWA and other charitable organisations, Mrs Hastie was awarded the Order of Australia Medal, one of the biggest highlights of her life to date.

She described the feeling as surreal and thrilling and a huge honour.

With 101 years of experience behind her, Mrs Hastie’s advice to the younger generation is to give people a little bit more brightness and friendship – especially to the less fortunate.

“To give each other a little bit of friendship and kindness is kind of lacking at the moment with everything going on,” she said.

“That’s my opinion, you know, to give friendship to people who may not be as fortunate as us.”

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Flower thieves anger Yungaburra community

BY ROBYN HOLMES

THIEVES have made off with more of Yungaburra’s beautiful hanging flower baskets, leaving the community angry and saddened by the blatant thefts.

This is the fourth time in the past few months thieves have targeted the flower baskets which are paid for through fundraising activities organised by the small Yungaburra Beautification group and supported by some of the businesses.

In the latest incident, three baskets were stolen from the front of the toilet block and one from outside the Kookaburra Lodge Motel, while three others were damaged by a garbage truck.

Footage taken by cameras outside one of the town’s businesses captured the alleged thieves pull up late one night in a Toyota Prado near the toilet block and blatantly remove the baskets and put them inside the vehicle. In all cases, the thieves cut the chains connected to the baskets.

Police have been notified of the theft but have yet to find the culprits, leaving the town wondering what they can do to avoid a similar situation happening again.

“The community is feeling very sad and frustrated – this is the fourth time in a few months that baskets have been stolen in front of the toilet block,” Beautification president Sue Fairley said.

“We work hard to raise the money to supply and maintain them and it is disheartening that this is happening more frequently.”

She said even though the theft had been devastating, it had sparked a morale-boosting response from the community.

“The community has responded with support and generosity – we have even had lady who wants to donate $20 a fortnight to help pay for the baskets,” Mrs Fairley said.

Kookaburra Lodge Motel owners Cindi and Mark Twomey said they were shocked to find one of the baskets had been cut from its chains, adding how much tourists valued the effort put in by the town to make it pretty.

“We were so disappointed once we discovered it missing,” Mrs Twomey said.

“We had some taken just before Mother’s Day in 2020 and it has now happened again.

“Many visitors comment that the town looks so nice and we tell them of the effort that the beautification committee and many of the businesses put in to provide them.

“We appreciate all the hard work that the committee does and the (Lakeside) nursery for helping to provide them.”

Mrs Twomey said they had

Have your say on bridge LOCALS frustrated with the disruption caused by constant state of repairs to the Barron River bridge in Kuranda have the chance to voice their opinion on the bridge’s future with the release of a new survey.

The ageing bridge has been in the spotlight since November 2020 when the Department of Transport and Main Roads closed the crucial freight link to one lane to carry out inspection works.

Since then, the bridge has undergone repairing welds to help strengthen the weakening beams but calls have been made for an alternative route to link Mareeba and Cairns including Bob Katter’s Bridle Track and the Reddicliffe Highway proposal.

Now as a part of the $2.1 million planning project investigating replacement options for the bridge, the department has released to the public a six-part survey asking people their thoughts on the future of the bridge.

Head to www.yoursay-projects.tmr.qld.gov.au to sign up and have your say, with residents able to have their say until 31 May.

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Yungaburra Beautification Inc president Sue Fairley with some of the beautiful flower baskets that line the town’s streets.

now installed motion sensor lights in the hope that would deter the thieves.

Ms Fairley said the committee and quite a few of the businesses in town had put a lot of effort into fundraising activities such as weekly bingo events, goose raffles, and sausage sizzles to raise the money to provide the baskets.

“We change them every six months so there’s quite a bit of work and cost involved,” she said.

It was Mrs Fairley who originally came up with the idea in 2013 to decorate Yungaburra with the flower baskets to add to its village character and from those humble beginnings, the town now features 214 baskets dotted around the streets and parks.

“I had been impressed when I saw them while travelling overseas and as Yungaburra is a village with 18 Heritagelisted buildings, I thought that the baskets would enhance the village atmosphere,” she said.

A small committee of five was formed, three of whom were still involved, and Mrs Fairley got to work to figure out how they could make the project sustainable from a financial perspective.

She sourced second-hand equipment and started to host the bingo events, with support

from the Yungaburra Hotel which provided the morning teas.

“Successful community projects are accomplished when you have valued partnerships and the key to this project is the partnerships we have formed with local businesses like the Lakeside Nursery who put the baskets together for a discounted price, and the Yungaburra Butchery which provides all the fixings for the sausage sizzles on market days,” Mrs Fairley explained.

She also thanked Tablelands Regional Council’s garden and parks crews who assisted in installing the first five pole prototypes back in 2014, and in the years since, installed 90 others.

“Council then asked us whether we could install some in Kehoe Park and we ended up with 23 poles there and 46 baskets on the condition that council installed an automatic watering system which they did,” Mrs Fairley said.

“So there’s been a lot of work and commitment from everyone to make this project a success and now with these thefts, we want everyone to keep an eye out for odd behaviour near the flower baskets and report what they witness to the police immediately.”

New Telstra tower approved for Atherton A NEW Telstra tower will be constructed in Atherton after the telecommunications giant lodged an appeal against a decision by Tablelands Regional Council to reject its application earlier this year.

The application was for a 27m tower in Vernon Street, aimed at improving 4G and 5G services within the town’s CBD and surrounding

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areas. But council rejected it, citing concerns about the emissions from the tower and that the height of the facility would contravene the planning scheme.

However, at its recent meeting, council voted not to defend the appeal and advise Telstra and the court that council “has changed its position and will compile conditions for approval”.

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The Express, Wednesday, May 11, 2022 PAGE 5

Officers busy investigating unapproved structures COMPLIANCE officers from Mareeba Shire Council are being kept busy, investigating 50 issues involving unapproved structures across the shire in the past three months.

A report to council highlighted that enforcement action related to unapproved structures had increased by 50 per cent in the past quarter.

A spokesperson said council had attributed the rise to increased customer complaints by the community.

“Council has not identified any demographic or specific reasons for the increase in the customer request or enforcement,” she said.

The unapproved structures vary and can include houses, sheds, shipping containers and swimming pools that have not been approved by a Building Certifier.

Candles shine light on DV victims

Seven-year-old Anika Wirth at last week’s candle light ceremony in Atherton.

RECOGNISING the victims of family and domestic violence was the focus of a candle lighting event at Atherton on Wednesday. The event was part of Remembrance Day which is marked throughout the State on 4 May to drive awareness about the problem.

In Atherton, members of the State Emergency Service and the Atherton Roosters rugby league club joined members of the public to participate in the event which involved lighting the candles at 6pm, the same time as others around the State.

User agreement saves Men’s Shed

BY ROBYN HOLMES

AN application by Yungaburra Men’s Shed for a five-year lease over the town’s ageing hall has been rejected

by Tablelands Regional Council but the group will be able to use the facility for 18 months under a user arrangement instead.

A report by chief executive officer Gary Rinehart outlined a number of reasons why the group could not be given a lease, including that the pro-

posed use of the facility did not fit with what the land was intended for, and was in conflict with the “recreation and open space” zone the hall is located within.

According to the report, the Men’s Shed, which currently has around 23 members, has less than $20,000 in revenue and assets and is therefore not considered to be financially sustainable to be issued a lease over the hall.

But the key sticking point was the use of the land the hall is built on. It

PAGE 6 The Express, Wednesday, May 11, 2022

is held by council as a reserve dedicated under the Land Act 1994, for the primary purpose of “Park and Recreation”, and the sub-purpose of “War Memorial”.

Under the Act, council can only grant a lease of the land for uses outside those purposes if Ministerial approval is given, and according to the report, this is unlikely to be granted.

But Councillor Peter Hodge rejected this was an issue.

“We know that the intent of the

council’s decision was to provide tenure to the group (for the hall) – if we need ministerial approval, then go and get it,” he told the council meeting.

All councillors except for Cr Annette Haydon supported the men’s shed proposal to use the hall, with Cr Bernie Wilce saying the value of the group to its members “can’t be underestimated” and noted that similar groups had been given tenure in sport and recreation areas by other local governments such as Cairns.

Deputy Mayor Kevin Cardew put forward a new recommendation that would give the men’s shed a user agreement for 18 months to enable the group to find a more suitable long-term location for their activities.

“I want to see a realistic rent though because it puts the men’s shed on an equal playing field with other community organisations so they will be aware of the sort of rent they would be paying in the future,” he said.

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Hotel project finally gets approval

BY ROBYN HOLMES

EXTENSIONS to the Tolga Hotel and its car park have been given the green light despite more than 50 public submissions against the development.

The vast majority of the submissions were related to 1479 square metres of land which was part of the popular rail trail and surrendered by Tablelands Regional Council last month to allow for the extension of the hotel car park.

Owned by hotelier Tom Hedley, the popular pub will be transformed by the redevelopment which includes extensions to the existing kitchen fa-

cilities and the bistro with a deck area and enclosed dining area, a children’s playground, additional toilet amenities, a designated outdoor smoking area, building improvements to enclose the existing drive-thru bottle shop, and a detached staff-room and storage building.

The application for the project was originally made in May 2021 but was unable to be accepted because the developer did not have the consent to utilise the rail trail land. Because the application was not properly received by September and officers had observed building works underway without the necessary permits, a Show Cause no-

tice was issued in November last year.

Despite the development application being lodged that same month, officers then issued an Enforcement Notice, citing concerns about “a considerable amount of unsecured building material strewn about the site” at the beginning of the annual cyclone season.

“It was conveyed to the applicant that the trigger for further enforcement action would be commencement of the use within the unapproved structures,” the report stated.

“In mid-March 2022, officers observed that the use of bistro area had commenced and, consequently, an

Enforcement Notice was issued on 23 March, instructing the applicant to immediately refrain from committing a development offence pursuant section 163 of the Planning Act 2016.”

At its recent meeting, councillors were asked to approve the development permit to allow the works to proceed, but Crs Kevin Cardew and Peter Hodge wanted changes made to the conditions in relation to the location of a boundary fence and spent some time asking questions of the planning officers before Mayor Rod Marti “called time” and pushed the matter to a vote.

As part of the conditions on the development, shade trees must be

planted to replace the mature poinciana tree that was removed near the rail trail, and written evidence provided to council that the Department of Transport and Main Roads (DTMR) has agreed to giving some type of tenure to the hotel over the former rail trail land.

Council officers indicated that negotiations with DTMR had substantially progressed.

Concerns about headlight glare and noise were also considered, with live music only allowed to be played indoors and a 2m high fence to be constructed on the eastern side of the hotel.

Concreter trades trowel for chainsaw

BY RHYS THOMAS INDULGING in his passion for art, an ex-concreter and Speewah resident spends his days at his reclusive address, exploring his craft and sculpting unique wooden creations from his surroundings.

John Peck has spent most of his working life as a concreter and since moving to Speewah from Mackay earlier this year, has been driving concrete trucks for a local company in Mareeba.

When not in the driver’s seat John keeps busy clearing his new property and making wooden sculptures using a chainsaw.

Some of John’s projects include a homage to infamous Australian outlaw Ned Kelly, a wizard holding a functional letterbox, an explorer from beyond the stars and an elephant with room on its head for a plant.

John and his partner decided to make the move to Speewah in hopes of living off the grid and with their kids grown up,

now was the perfect time.

John initially believed that he and his sculptures would be entering into a saturated market however, upon moving he realised that was not the case.

“I thought up here there would be more of it, so I would just be one among many but once I looked around no one really does anything similar,” he said.

“A lot of shops have offered me consignment and stallholders at the Kuranda markets as well, there are a few stalls there that are happy to feature my sculptures.”

While many talented woodworkers reside in the far north, not many tackle projects on the same scale as John with some of his work measuring over a metre tall.

Since moving, John has been overwhelmed by the local support and enthusiasm for his niche craft.

He has been approached by multiple people asking for custom projects and even been asked to teach at the local

Kuranda Men’s Shed.

John attributes his passion for and skill in crafting, to his uncle who taught him everything he knew at a young age using nothing more than a knife and carrot.

“My uncle used to carve so he showed me his style that he used to do, I took that and done my own sort of thing,” he said.

“I was always working flat out so I didn’t have a lot of time for carving, I did a lot of drawing and painting and that sort of thing.

“I love it, if I could do this for a living it would be great – I’m keen to see where it can go.”

Due to the surprising success and uptake of his sculptures, John has launched a small business called Down to Earth Creations and has created a Facebook page to share his work.

John is now planning to build a workshop at his residence for his crafting and expand into home and houseware products such as tables and basins.

Speewah resident John Peck uses his spare time away from his job in the driving seat to develop his niche hobby business, Down to Earth Creations.

Product of Australia

Product of Australia

Product of Australia

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The Express, Wednesday, May 11, 2022 PAGE 7

FEDERAL ELECTION 2022 Katter puts his back into election campaign A CHEEKY social media and TV advertising campaign by Member for Kennedy Bob Katter highlighting flaws in the major parties that are regularly raised by North Queensland voters have hit TV screens and social media feeds.

One of the 30 second ads, ‘The Great Comparison’, has Bob Katter ripping a ukulele out of the Prime Minister’s hands and getting him to sign a contract to build the Bradfield Scheme.

The same ad also compares Labor Leader Anthony Albanese doing a Women’s Weekly photoshoot, with Bob Katter carrying a 40kg bunch of bananas at a farm near Innisfail, North Queensland.

The advertisement goes on to focus on the differences between Katter’s Austral-

C A R R I N G T O N H O T E L

ian Party and the major parties including, prioritising Australian farmers over imported products, a push for Australianmade ethanol fuel, freedom of choice for Covid vaccines, and a tenacious opposition to the sell-off of government assets like the Port of Darwin and the electricity industry.

The final scene of the ad is Mr Katter shaping up in a boxing ring taking off his gloves.

Mr Katter said while the advertisement had a lighter side, Australians were enraged by State and Federal Governments who had continuously sold off assets and land to the highest bidder, most of the time to a foreign company or individual.

“Of all the things that set me off into a

rage and fury, ultimately it is the sale of Australia,” Mr Katter said.

“The biggest mining companies were Australian owned, now they are foreign owned. The biggest owners of farmland in Australia are foreigners.

“What is wrong with us as a people?

We should rise up in rage against the Liberal National Party and the Labor Party.

It is not your asset to sell off. It was the people’s asset. There should have at least been a vote as to whether you sold off assets like the Commonwealth Bank, Qantas or Telstra.”

The second ad features a final scene of Mr Katter planting an Australian flag into the ground and the words “not for sale” flash onto the screen.

Bob Katter’s latest election advert shows him carrying bananas.

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PAGE 8 The Express, Wednesday, May 11, 2022

OVER 19,000 temporary jobs are on offer in Queensland as the Australian Electoral Commission searches for election workers across both the Kennedy and Leichhardt electorates ahead of the 21 May federal poll.

Temporary election work is paid and no prior experience is required, with the commission providing all the training and support needed.

There are currently 819 temporary jobs available in the Kennedy electorate and 748 jobs in Leichhardt.

Australian Electoral Commission state manager for Queensland Stephanie Attard said working in an election was a great way to earn extra money and contribute to your local community.

“We have got over 19,100 temporary election jobs in Queensland and there are over 100,000 temporary positions throughout Australia,” she said.

“We want to have people working at polling places who reflect our diverse population, so we welcome registrations of interest from everyone.

“While most of the jobs are on election day itself, some are in the few weeks before and after election day.”

To register your interest head to aec.gov.au/electionjobs

Housing priority for Greens Party TACKLING the housing crisis is a key priority for the Greens candidate for Kennedy, Jennifer Cox, who believes selling off public housing has exacerbated the issue.

“There is a housing crisis in all of Australia because consecutive governments have not built public housing in many years. In fact, the Labor State Government has sold off over 1400 public houses and properties in Queensland,” she said.

“And, almost 100 of these houses, sold to private developers, are in the Federal seat of Kennedy under Katter's watch.”

Ms Cox claims selling off public housing and implementing “so-called” solutions like first homeowners grants have only inflated the market and increased housing prices.

“This is locking a generation out of home ownership. Decreasing deposit requirements or taking super to use as a deposit only puts people further into dangerous levels of debt,” she said.

The Greens have pledged to build one million new homes over 20 years so everyone has an affordable place to live without driving market prices up further.

“We will also be providing

free TAFE to ensure we have more builders and tradies to continue to develop our growing country,” Ms Cox said.

“By making billionaires and big corporations pay their fair share of tax, we can house everyone on the social housing wait list, and permanently bring down housing costs so no one’s left homeless or facing overwhelming debt.”

The Greens are also pushing to immediately cap rent increases and ban rent bidding, so that rents are tied to inflation and people get a fair chance to apply for a home.

“Unfortunately, both major parties take big donations from the property industry, which means they put big developers and speculators first. Their governments have made it harder to buy your first home than your sixth,” Ms Cox said.

“The Greens would stand up for ordinary people just looking for a secure, affordable home for them and their family.

“Our investment in public housing and reforms to make renting more secure and affordable will mean everyone has a safe, stable home - whether you rent or own.”

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

Madi defies medical odds

BY ELLIE FINK

ALWAYS centre stage, Mareeba’s Madi Srhoj-Simonato was the perfect prima ballerina, with high hopes of a career in dance until in one morning she woke up completely paralysed from the neck down.

The then 15-year-old didn’t know what or how it had happened as she laid in bed terrified, being rushed to the hospital with a mysterious illness that took away her ability to move for weeks.

Now five years later, Madi still has no real answer to what happened that night and the 11 relapses after that but is now using her recovery journey in physiotherapy to educate, move and recover.

“I had lots of MRI scans on my brain and spine – I was only 15 at the time and was so lost and confused. I went from being so strong and at the highest peak of my dancing career to becoming a fragile little girl learning to walk again,” she said.

“I was strapped onto a bed that could stand up so I could start to put pressure on my legs and over the next few days I then had to try and start walking.

“I felt like an idiot not being able to walk and having to re-learn it and you really start to question life and how you just don’t even think of walking and then one day you’re dragging your feet on the ground holding crutches to walk again.”

Madi then found herself in a wheelchair for a period of time until she managed to regain her strength through rehabilitation and physiotherapy.

Although a perfect diagnosis could not be ruled out by any specialist doctors, Madi was told her condition was very similar to structural functioning neurological disorder.

The only real way to find out what it is, is to have her in an MRI whilst she is relapsing – something that is nearly impossible to accomplish.

After recovering from the first relapse, Madi continued to dance in Brisbane until it happened again and this time, she was alone without family.

Specialists in Brisbane had no clue why she was paralysed, which left her heartbroken but determined to get better again.

“I thought it may have been a once-off thing but by the time you get to the 11th relapse it just

becomes a normal thing, it just gets kind of frustrating now,” she said.

“Once I left the hospital the second time after going through the same physio again, I went to a beach down on the Gold Coast and that was where I decided I had to give up dancing. It was a hard decision, but my illness really helped me decide that dancing wasn’t the career path I wanted to take anymore.

“Dancing was all I had known as it was my passion, so I found it extremely hard to come to terms with giving it up. I gave up dancing and went to a boarding school in Brisbane and I loved it down there.”

Through physio, she met many people who she looked up to in their job, helping people like her regain their strength and confidence when taking baby steps again.

Madi explained that it was those people who inspired her to begin working as a personal trainer and fitness instructor.

“When I was down in Brisbane, I met my physio James Grimm and I used to spend quite a bit of time with him as you can imagine as every day I was in there,” she said.

“I was just straight into it, from all his rehab side of things as I loved learning about the body so that interest really helped me through rehab.

“And then I was trying to come up with my own little exercises to help improve and then after that, I stayed in Brisbane for a couple more years and I met a strength and conditioning coach. She was a dancer as well.”

Madi and her strength and conditioning coach Rebecca Hall connected quickly, with many common interests including personal fitness.

Rebecca kept Madi going, constantly reminding her “you've just got to persist and you'll get there”.

It’s been nearly two years since her last relapse and Madi now runs classes across Mareeba and Atherton, teaching Pilates, barre and bootcamps whilst studying to become a primary school teacher.

“I want to be able to build a business where everyone feels comfortable no matter what shape or size they are,” she said.

“They do say ‘once a dancer always a dancer’ and I now use my old passion for dancing and turn it into fitness and training.

“I use the technique components to help others. When I teach my barre classes I teach them to improve strength, tone muscles, core, flexibility, posture and alignment.”

Whilst she learned to love the physical side to recovery and how to become a personal trainer, her passion has always been with teaching like her mother but she says she hopes to continue running boot camps on the side.

She also hopes to spread awareness of her illness and help the very small number of people struggling with it.

“I want my story to get out there so if there is anyone out there who was just as lost as I was when I was younger, I want them to know that they will always find a way to get through it,” she said.

“Sometimes you just have to meet the right people!”

Madison Srhoj-Simonato has defied the odds, recovering from a mysterious illness leaving her paralysed 11 times in the last five years. BELOW: In rehab in Brisbane.

Join Blue Care’s team of Mareeba Aged Care Facility & Tablelands Community Care are looking for Personal Carers | Registered Nurses | Enrolled Nurses | Hospitality Staff Apply now at bluecare.org.au/careers for jobs in your area or apply within at 7 Macrae Street, Mareeba

Volunteering opportunities available too! www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

The Express, Wednesday, May 11, 2022 PAGE 9

New Lifeline For Tableland Tradies!

Relief For Overworked Tradies

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PAGE 10 The Express, Wednesday, May 11, 2022

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

Pet fair huge success PET lovers of Mareeba came together to show off their loveable pooches and precious felines at the Mareeba Animal Refuge’s annual pet fair.

Families bought their pets out to enjoy a day of socialising and displaying their incredible tricks, tips and wagging tails.

While the refuge did not have any adoptions of homeless animals on the day, there have been several inquiries since the event.

The winners of the com-

Input wanted into age friendly push

petition were: Best Costume: Buddy and owner Sera; Judge's Choice Dog: Bo with owner Cheyenne; Junior Handler: Bear with Nate; 1st place for large dog: Thomas with owner Julia; 1st place for medium dog: Minx with owner Roel; 1st place for small dog: Emi and owner Lisa; 1st female cat: Alice and owner Kirsten; 1st male cat: Savannah with owner Vivienne; and Judges Choice Cat: Curly Sue and owner Vivienne.

Best costume.

Nate and Bear.

Kristen and Marvin.

Anita and Billy.

Connie and Curly Sue

Thomas with owner Julia and Cr Lenore Wyatt.

MILLAA MILLAA MIRACLE MEETINGS

FEEDBACK from the community is being sought as part of a push

by Tablelands Regional Council to shape an agefriendly region.

Councillor Peter Hodge said the organisation wanted to ensure that the region valued, respected older people and actively supported them to participate in their community.

“We’ve been working with the community for some time to develop our Age-Friendly Strategy 2022-27, action plan and evaluation framework, which are all based on the World Health Organisation’s Age-Friendly Cities model,” he said.

“These documents have been informed by surveys, workshops and consultation with volunteers, community groups, industry and residents.

“We’re now at the point where the vision, message from the community and key principles are available for feedback and comment.”

Anyone who wishes to comment should do so quickly via www.trc.qld. gov.au/engagement-portal, with feedback closing on Thursday 12 May.

Have you been thinking about volunteering at Carinya Home?

It’s time to act!

RSL HALL Corner of Oak and Wattle Streets, Millaa Millaa

For registrations or further information Email: mmcf.4886@gmail.com ALL ARE WELCOME! Enquiries: Lyndon Hockey 0428 772 902

Friday 27th May, 2022: 6.00pm Saturday 28th May, 2022: 5.00pm

Meetings are filmed for public use.

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

Of course, all current regulations apply. You will need to show proof of triple vaccination and have a rapid antigen test before entry (which we supply).

Plus wear a mask once inside, keeping our residents safe.

We hope to see you there!

The Express, Wednesday, May 11, 2022 PAGE 11

PIONEER WEEKEND Historic Village Herberton 7-8 May

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PAGE 12 The Express, Wednesday, May 11, 2022

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

Students embrace radio training

BY ELLIE FINK

A GROUP of high-flying students from Kairi State School have almost completed their amateur radio licence course, making them a step ahead when it comes to the art of radio communication.

Amateur radio is a technical hobby that requires a qualification to work and connect the devices being used by emergency services, SES, crisis workers and disaster communication officers to communicate effectively between each other.

Enrichment teacher for Kairi State School, Jean McMaster, is working alongside Tablelands Radio and Electronic Club secretary Stewart Dunk and Tablelands Regional Council’s Emergency Management senior advisor Sarah Dean to get the kids the appropriate licensing that will last a lifetime.

“It is a six-week course for the kids that are in our enrichment program at school and

kids take time out of their learning time to participate in these activities,” Ms McMaster said.

“It goes under the category of STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math), and it helps kids expand their knowledge and opportunities.”

Ms Dean has helped take students through the course and explained how important it was for young people to have a source of emergency communication if disaster strikes their area.

She explained that as well as the benefits of possessing such knowledge in the case of an emergency, students could use their licence to pursue career paths such as emergency services and disaster management.

“I think it will help not only Kairi but the broader community when it comes to a crisis – look at Cyclone Tracey, where people were able to hook up radios and communicate when there was no other way,”

Ms Dean said.

“It will help them to listen out for others in emergencies as well as allowing them to make the calls, especially when they are young and going out all the time.

“Opening up their opportunities with this licence could also lead to them being encouraged to volunteer for emergency services in the future.”

Mr Dunk has had his licence for 40 years now and explained he has used his knowledge in amateur radio in the case of two emergencies already.

He is now passing that knowledge down to the younger generation.

“As well as being good in emergencies, it’s an opportunity for kids to tinker around and talk to other amateur radio licence holders,” he said.

“You can use this knowledge in telecommunications and even in music – there are so many career paths for these young people.”

Ashlee Sculthorpe from Kairi State School learning how to use amateur radio.

Grazier wins reprieve on water bill

BY ROBYN HOLMES

A PERSONAL appeal by a property owner who was hit with a $5293 water bill has paid off, with Tablelands Regional Council voting to cut the amount owing in half.

Upper Barron landowner Jeff Strazzeri put his case to the council after officers refused his request to have the bill halved despite his protests that he had not used the water and was unaware the tap had been turned on until it was too late.

The issue came to Mr Strazzeri’s attention when he received a $5,293.95 water account for 5,402 kilolitres of water used from July 2021 to January 2022.

Despite officers recognising that the water use was markedly different to previous bills which had ranged from $0 to $57 over the past three years, they were not prepared to give Mr Strazzeri a discount.

He told council the water provided was

gravity fed and untreated, and had flowed from a tap he did not use unless his pumping system to cattle troughs failed. He did not check the tap regularly, assuming it was always off.

“If I’m going to pay $5000 for water, I would want it to be at least drinkable,” he told council.

“There’s been a lot of council resources wasted on this issue – the time it’s taken to look into this issue and the costs incurred by the council would surpass the $5000 owed.”

Mr Strazzeri claimed it could have been left on after council officers repaired an upstream leak last year. But a report stated that the repairs had occurred in February 2021 and were not in the period when the water use had been recorded.

“Based on the information provided by the customer in their application and subsequent verbal communications, TRC Water and Waste has assessed the application and

deemed a concession does not apply in this instance,” the report stated.

“On that basis the customer was informed in writing that their application was declined. The customer was dissatisfied with the decision and proposed to escalate the matter with council.”

Water and Waste manager Jon Turner said officers had thought it prudent to put the matter before council given officers did not have the delegated authority to determine the bill could be reduced because the reasons given were not supported by the policy.

Deputy Mayor Kevin Cardew put forward an alternate recommendation to reduce the bill by 50 per cent – a position supported

by Cr Bernie Wilce who put forward that given there had been “some sort of benefit” to the property owner because the water had been used, he believed halving the account was fair. The recommendation was passed unanimously.

• Core values of love, hope, service and respect • Care for the individual • A safe, friendly and welcoming environment • High expectations • Affordable fees • Life long relationships that are built through our love of learning

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We look forward to meeting you!

PREP 2023 ENROLMENTS ARE NOW BEING TAKEN Children born 1 July, 2017 to 30 June, 2018 To find out more about St Thomas’ visit: www.stthomasmareeba.qld.edu.au

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The Express, Wednesday, May 11, 2022 PAGE 13

a b e e r Ma

Mareeba

HEALTH & WELLBEING FORUM

f the Mareeba Community o g n i e b l l e W & al t h e H e h t ing ov r p Im

WEDNESDAY 18TH MAY, 2022

Doors Open: 5.30PM Light Dinner: 6.00PM Forum Starts: 6.30pm

What’s on...

OPEN SESSION A panel of local and national experts in the fields of alcohol and other drugs will form a panel • Ms Rebecca Lang – Queensland Network of Alcohol and Other Drug Agencies • Ms Gail Wason – Mulungu Aboriginal Corporation • Professor Nicole Lee – 360 Edge, Australia’s leading Alcohol and Other Drug Consultancy • Dr Robert Ali – University of Adelaide • Dr Tahnee Bridson – Young Qld of the Year and Founder of Peer-to-Peer Support • Ms Julie Theakston – Mareeba Community Centre Inc

LAUNCH BLACK COCKATOO FOUNDATION • Mr Ivan Frkovic – Queensland Mental Health Commissioner • Ms Margie Bestmann – Mental Health Advocate for the Mareeba Community • Mr Ross Cardillo – Chairperson Mareeba and Communities Family Healthcare

MAREEBA INTERNATIONAL CLUB

Mareeba Rotary in partnership with Mareeba Communities & Family Healthcare invite you to this

FREE NIGHT FOR THE WHOLE COMMUNITY This is an open Community Forum with an ex pert panel and questions from the audience will be welcome

N O I T A D N U O F O O T A K C O C K C A L B W E N E H T F O H C N U LA Mark in honour of Dr

Bestmann

Mareeba and Communities Family Healthcare has established a foundation with the key aim of improving the health and wellbeing of the Mareeba Community.

The foundation is called the Black Cockatoo Foundation and has been establish in honour of Dr Mark Bestmann

RSVP ispartnership not essential, but welcome for catering purposes Mareeba Rotary in with Mareeba Communities & www.eventbrite.com.au/o/mareeba-communities-amp-family-healthcare-45315089623 Family Healthcare are arrangFunding support provided by Northern Queensland Primary Health Network ing a Community Forum at PAGE 14 The Express, Wednesday, May 11, 2022 www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au Mareeba International Club

Everypne welcome

Going above and beyond to save lives

BY ELLIE FINK

FROM transporting patients to their specialist appointments, reuniting family and donating goods and services during times of crisis, CEO and director of Angel Flights Marjorie Pangani has done it all from the good of her heart.

Since being founded in 2003, Angel Flights is a charity chartering non-emergency medical flights across the country from rural towns to the big smokes.

After volunteering as an aviation barrister and as a pilot, she took on the role of CEO in 2005 after founder and former CEO Bill Bristow AM convinced her to take the next step up.

“After a few years he fell ill and asked me to take over,” Marjorie said.

“I was reluctant to, but I agreed to do it for a year – that was in 2005 and I am still here working with a great group of volunteers both in the air and on the ground.”

Since being in her position, Marjorie has flown across the country to all parts of the bush and city to help almost 20 people a day, free of charge.

She recalls some incredible charters in recent events, as the impacts of Covid and flooding affected families across the country.

One of her biggest calls yet being asked to reunite a three-year-old boy and his mother during strict border closures.

“In this Covid world we have been doing a lot of compassionate flying, we had young Memphis who was stuck in New South Wales come up to the coast and to get in, we had pilots being sterilised and waiting in small border towns,” she said.

“We bought Mum down to Archerfield, police were present and the little three-year-old got out of the plane, spotted mum and ran straight into her arms.

“Then we took Memphis and his mum back up to the north coast.”

More recently, Marjorie has found

CEO of Angel Flights Marjorie Pangani has helped many rural people struggling to fly easily to appointments and loved ones all through the power of volunteering and compassion.

herself in the midst of the floodwaters in Lismore, with a weekend long operation taking place to deliver 12 tonnes worth of donated food and other basics to victims and their families.

After hearing of the tragedy of the floods, she quickly picked up the phone and dialled any volunteer pilot she could find to help.

“On Friday night I was on the phone talking to pilots and by Monday morning I had twelve aircraft at Bankstown and Archerfield and 12 tonnes of donated supplies ready for take-off,” “On Tuesday morning, we flew a convey into Bellara and had arranged to send off a convoy of Utes to unload the donated supplies from the helicopters and aircrafts and distribute them.

“We had an RSL donate a caravan

which we drove up for a family who needed it desperately, they donated $6000 worth of groceries which a pilot went out and bought and distributed.

“That all took me from Friday night to Monday morning to pull together and that was all thanks to the volunteers on sight.”

Reuniting families is something Marjorie finds most impacting in her role, with patients at the end of life requesting their place of death or family wishing to farewell their loved ones.

She expressed how compassionate those moments were to her patients and recalls the story of a woman who was flown by Angel Flights to see her mother who was almost at her last breath.

“She said to me that her mother was told she was coming to see her and wait-

ed until she was there,” she said.

“That lady was able to see her mother in her final two minutes because Angel Flights was able to get her out there.”

Families are who Marjorie finds herself working with, transporting not only the patient but their loved one’s miles across the country in order to keep family life as simple as possible in difficult times.

Those who have travelled with Angel Flights have come back to her thanking her for the kindness and compassion for the work she has done, and Marjorie believes her role helps her thrive as a person.

If you would like to utilise Angel Flights, contact your GP and ask them to register via https://www.angelflight. org.au

Dangerous driving charge for motorist A 35-year old Mareeba man has been charged after he allegedly was driving on the wrong side of the road on two occasions last week.

Police will allege that the man was driving north along Anzac Avenue on the wrong side of the road, when he forced another vehicle off the road at around 12.30pm on Saturday 30 April.

It will be further alleged that at about 2.30pm the same vehicle and driver were observed on the wrong side of the road again on Byrnes Street, where two vehicles had to take evasive action.

Police will also allege that the man then pulled into a service station and reversed into an electrical controller for all the fuel pumps, causing the duty manager to hit the emergency stop button.

Upon arrival, police conducted a roadside breath test and the man allegedly returned a positive result, however he was unable to provide a further specimen of breath at the police station.

The man is expected to appear in the Mareeba Magistrates Court on 16 May, charged with two counts of dangerous operation of a motor vehicle and one count of driving under the influence.

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The Express, Wednesday, May 11, 2022 PAGE 15

New digs for Eacham Historical Society MEMBERS of the Eacham Historical Society have completed the mammoth task of moving hundreds of years’ of history to the group’s new premises at 33 James Street, Malanda.

As the society’s history collection continues to grow, it was forced to vacate its old home in Millaa Millaa.

With the move now complete, volunteers are eager to begin sorting and recording the history of the Atherton Tablelands.

Society president Daniel Donoghue said the organisation had become an invaluable source of information for anyone searching for documents, photos or even first-hand accounts of Tablelands history.

“We are happy to assist people searching for history links - the society has a searchable archive of records pertaining to many aspects of the early Tablelands,” he said.

“We have many family history documents and first-hand writings of interesting

Eacham Historical Society president Daniel Donoghue outside the society’s new residence in Malanda.

events from the past and our school student registers also assist greatly with family research.

“Family history research seeking information and photographs relating to past residents have become a popular past-time which our volunteers are happy to assist with.”

The society is open Monday afternoons, Tuesday nights and Thursday mornings along with separate appointment times to suit.

Email or phone the society at eachamhistorical@live.com.au or on 4096 6239 if you require any assistance or would like to become a member.

Free community events set for Malanda in May A SERIES of free events will be offered by ECHO Empowering Services in Malanda this month to help educate and give support to those in the community who need it most.

After the group’s recent move to 11-15 Eacham Place, its facilities have undergone renovations to create a safe and inclusive space for everyone.

Their first event for May is a morning tea for Volunteers Week on Monday 16 May to celebrate the efforts of volunteers and the value they provide to the community.

Community worker Bel Moore said the morning tea would help volunteers connect with each other as well as opening up new opportunities in different volunteering roles.

“We are celebrating volunteer week because without volunteers, Neighbourhood Houses would struggle to operate,” she said.

“Our volunteers have so much input into the management of the house and organisa-

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tion (committee), and the daily running of the house with the garden, admin and event help, repairing and building things, helping others learn new skills, and so much more.

“Our events don't require booking or RSVP, just informally turn up at the allotted time on the flyers and notices and we'll be there with a cuppa and something to eat, and lots of welcoming smiles!”

On Friday 20 May, ECHO will open up to celebrate National Families Week with celebrations beginning at 3.15pm.

The organisation will be celebrating with the families and children they have helped support and welcome families struggling to come and have a chat.

“Anyone can attend, and we will have resources available through the week for those who can't make the event but want to drop by and talk about how the Neighbourhood House supports families via visiting services, youth

space and groups, transport options, emergency relief, support for new parents, referrals for other services and more,” Ms Moore said.

The group also offer support groups such as their “Queer Youth Group”, where members of the LGBTQI+ community can come together informally and speak on topics concerning them, make friendships and fins support.

The “Queer Youth Group” meets every Monday afternoon at the Eacham Place facility from 3pm until 5pm.

A JP service is also available every second Friday from 9am until 12pm to assist in special responsibilities, such as witnessing and certifying routine legal documents including wills, affidavits, statutory declarations and passport applications.

For more information on events and support groups and to learn more about ECHO, visit www.echoes.org.au

HOW TO VOTE JASON BRANDON LABOR FOR KENNEDY SMALL GREEN BALLOT PAPER

3 5 2

MACDONALD, B

4

COX, J

KATTER, B

SACKLEY, J

Jason 1 BRANDON, AUSTRALIAN LABOR PARTY

6

CAMPION, P

Remember to Number EVERY Square

Find Labor’s How to Vote card here

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Authorised by Julie-Ann Campbell, Australian Labor Party (State of Queensland), Level 1, 16 Peel Street, South Brisbane QLD 4101.

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

The Express, Wednesday, May 11, 2022 PAGE 16

Remote communities stay well stocked

Executive Director of Allied Health Vivienne Sander, Executive Director of Asset Management Dean Davidson and Torres and Cape HHS Chief Executive Beverley Hamerton during the recent forum for the Cooktown Hospital redevelopment.

Cooktown hospital set for redevelopment A FORUM held in Cooktown recently has outlined the proposed redevelopment of the town’s hospital and heard community feedback on the proposed works.

The current hospital is more than 30 years old and services a growing region that includes nearby communities including Laura, Wujal Wujal and Hope Vale.

The redevelopment has been marked as a priority project and is set to increase the hospital’s capacity and deliver improved services.

The project involves increasing bed space from 16 beds to 24 plus two resuscitation bays and two short-stay beds in the emergency department, building space for a future CT scanner, two chairs recommended for oral health,

one operating theatre and one procedure room. Cape HHS chief executive Beverley Hamerton said she was pleased with the community turnout to the recent forum.

“Approximately 40 people attended to ask questions and share their views on the redevelopment. We received valuable feedback that will be used to inform our plans as the project progresses,” she said.

This forum was not the only opportunity for the community to have their say. Anyone who has views on the redevelopment can email tchhs-projects-infrastructure@health. qld.gov.au to provide their feedback or receive more information on the project.

The redevelopment is still in planning as the project awaits funding.

Licence No. 88972

NEARLY 90,000 kilograms of produce has been flown to remote Cape York communities during the recent wet season, keeping the cut off areas well stocked and well fed.

Community Enterprise Queensland (CEQ) spent almost half a million dollars on 26 separate air charters to Kowanyama, Pormpuraaw, and Doomadgee, successfully delivering 87,000 kilograms of goods over the wet season.

The organisation continued to deliver supplies to supermarkets in these communities via truck until the roads became too dangerous and the company switched to air charters.

“We see it as our job during the wet season to go the extra mile to ensure essential goods are supplied to the remote Cape York communities we serve,” CEQ chief executive officer Ian Copeland said.

“Our warehouses were filled to capacity prior to the wet season arriving, and we delivered goods by truck as per normal until the wet weather stopped them getting through.

“Since then, we have been utilising planes in Kowanyama, Pormpuraaw and Doomadgee to get

Community Enterprise Queensland provided remote Cape York communities with thousands of kilograms of produce during the recent wet season via air charters.

the necessary food supplies through to residents in these communities via air freight.”

Most stores had received at least one delivery of produce per week, with up to four tonnes supplied in one delivery.

New RV park at Mossman Golf Club TRAVELLERS to Mossman will soon be able to enjoy a unique RV park experience as the Mossman Golf Club prepares to open its new RV park at the end of May. The club has been trying to get an RV park approved for the last six years, aiming to bring in additional revenue and help keep the club afloat.

Just 12 months ago, Douglas Shire Council approved the club’s second development application, allowing the organisation to immediately start on the new project.

Now the park is nearing completion and awaits some final touches before the official opening.

Club captain John Carney said the decision to build the RV park was made to help alleviate financial strain on the club and keep it operational.

“It gets back to dollars and cents and there are so many golf clubs down the coast going broke,” he said. “We found the RV park was going to be a great way to make sure the club continues for many years.”

The new 18-site park is expected to bring an estimated $70,000-80,000 annually, with residents of the park able to enjoy the golf cub amenities when open.

This includes a new three-net driving bay where locals, club members and RV park patrons can practice their swings.

An $8000 net has also been installed to ensure residents of the RV park and their vehicles are kept safe from straying golf balls.

The park is in the final stages of completion with hopes to open at the end of the month and begin operating by 1 June.

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The Express, Wednesday, May 11, 2022 PAGE 17

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Bryce MACDONALD LNP Candidate for Kennedy

VOTE 1

A message from

BRYCE

I will be a strong voice for the people, communities and industries of the Kennedy electorate to deliver the infrastructure and services we need to take Kennedy forward.

The LNP has a plan to build the water, transport and communications infrastructure to drive economic growth and create jobs.

We need more affordable, reliable power and to fight against the red and green tape holding back our agriculture and mining sectors. With a strong economy, we can afford to invest in our local communities, grow local industries and support seniors, veterans, families and young people.

Working hard to get things done locally More recently, Bryce was a Councillor and Deputy Mayor of the Cassowary Coast Regional Council and was a member of the Cairns and Hinterland Hospital and Health Service Advisory Committee, working with the banana industry through the Panama State Task Force and Regional Working Group.

Currently, Bryce maintains a connection to the road transport industry working in temporary management roles at several North Queensland depots, works as an agronomic sales representative and is a Director and Chair of Tully Canegrowers. This is in addition to Bryce continuing to operate his own cane and paw-paw farm near Tully. As well as being a qualified Justice of the Peace, Bryce has a strong work ethic and demonstrated a commitment to community leadership and service.

Bryce will back local farmers and fishers, mine workers and tourism operators, small business owners, retirees and local families.

We need a fresh approach, with proven leadership ability and experience to secure our future, and that’s what Bryce will provide.

Authorised by L. Folo, LNP, 281 Sandgate Road, Albion QLD 4010.

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

I'm focused on what matters for

KENNEDY

•

A fresh approach to representing Kennedy in Canberra to make it more relevant and connected to the 21st Century.

•

Support for our tourism, agriculture, fisheries and mining industries to grow our regional towns and create more and better paid jobs.

•

Deliver water infrastructure to create new local jobs and add-value to the production of our traditional industries.

•

Continue to improve the safety of our roads and bridges between Cairns and Townsville, the Atherton Tablelands, from Townsville to Mount Isa and the Gulf.

•

Improve access to regional health professionals, education and community services for our families, seniors and young people.

The Express, Wednesday, May 11, 2022 PAGE 18

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Bryce MACDONALD LNP Candidate for Kennedy

VOTE 1

(Small green ballot pap

er)

You must number ever y

Electoral Division of Ke

box.

nnedy

Step 1.

Start here and number every box.

VOTE 1 LNP ON BOTH YOUR BALLOT PAPERS

4

KATTER, B

1

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SACKLEY, J

6

COX, J

5

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3

CAMPION, P

OF QUEENSLAND

STRONG ECONOMY. STRONGER FUTURE.

DON’T RISK LABOR AND THE GREENS

BY VOTING KATTER.

24 MARCH 2021

When asked whether he would withhold support from the Morrison Government, Mr Katter said

“I am considering my position”.

25 March 2022 Mr Katter said he Labor if there was would consider supporting a hung parliamen next election. t after the

Authorised by Lincoln Folo, Liberal National Party of Queensland, 281 Sandgate Road, Albion QLD 4010

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

The Express, Wednesday, May 11, 2022 PAGE 19

LOAN OR GIFT? Contributions from your parents and property division

It is common for parents to continue to support their children financially, even when they become adults with partners and children of their own. Parents may help their children by providing money to assist with the purchase of a house, payment of a loan or for many other reasons. This money may sometimes be a gift, and in other cases it may be a loan which is expected to be repaid.

The question of whether money contributed by a parent was a loan or a gift plays a particularly important role in family law proceedings. If the adult child is going through a relationship separation, they or their parents may wish to argue that the money was a loan which will need to be repaid while the former spouse may wish to say it was a gift. If the money is a gift rather than a loan, it may be included in the assets available for division and the spouse may be able to claim some entitlement to that money.

The following questions can provide some guidance as to whether a parent’s contribution would be viewed as a gift or a loan: 1. Is the agreement in writing? If there is no written agreement it is less likely that the contribution would be considered a loan.

2. Are there any repayment terms (i.e. set amounts to be repaid within certain timeframes)? If there are no repayment terms, the arrangement is unlikely to be considered a loan.

3. Are the repayment arrangements similar to those of a traditional loan? If they are, this would indicate that the contribution was a loan.

4. Have the repayments been made? If so, this would indicate a loan arrangement.

5. Has there been any demand for repayments?

Requests for repayments would suggest the money was loaned and there was an expectation that it be repaid. The timing of the requests is important. If made during the relationship, this would indicate the money was a loan, however if demands were only made leading up to separation this is not conclusive, as there could be other motives behind such requests.

6. Capacity to repay? Without real prospects of repayment it is harder to argue the contribution was a loan. An ordinary lender would consider the person’s ability to repay before loaning any monies.

7. Do the facts and evidence provided suggest there was an intention to create legal relations?

This can be determined on a case-by-case basis.

Cooking up a storm for the hungry bike riders were (left) Atherton Lions president Neil Clarke and Ray Sutton from Malanda Lions Club.

Lions fuel hungry riders AROUND 100 hungry bike riders participating in the Mater Hospital Foundation’s “Smiling for Smiddy” event on the May day long weekend were treated to a barbecue at Atherton’s Big 4 van park, courtesy of the town’s Lions Club, assisted by the Malanda Lions.

Every year, hundreds of cyclists and triathletes and their support networks use their passion for sport to help fight cancer through the Smiling for Smiddy cycle challenge, with more than $10 million raised since the first event in 2006.

Held in memory of Adam Smiddy, who passed away from an aggressive melanoma aged 26, Mater’s Smiling for Smiddy delivers inspiring challenge events where individuals and communities can band together to raise funds for cancer research “the Smiddy way”.

The bike riders were all pretty tired after day four of the tropical challenge which had taken them on a seven-hour round trip which included Millaa Millaa Falls and Ravenshoe.

In spite of the aches and pains – and a

few grazes – there were plenty of smiles as they lined up for a barbecue meal followed by a good night’s sleep, in preparation for the next day when they were scheduled to head down the winding Gillies Highway back to Cairns.

Funds raised through Mater Smiling for Smiddy support dedicated teams of researchers at Mater Research, who are working on potentially life-saving research into the causes, prevention and treatment of various types of cancer.

Disaster communication expanded TO ENSURE the region stays connected in times of disaster, Tablelands Regional Council has expanded its communications network, installing three new UHFCB repeaters at various locations across the shire.

Local disaster management chair and councillor Bernie Wilce said the new repeaters would help regions keep connected during and after natural disasters.

“We needed an alternative backup communication system in case the more traditional systems like mobiles, landlines and internet fail during and after a disaster,” he said.

“These three repeaters will greatly enhance our communication capability.

“Normally UHF-CB communication is line of sight but these repeaters will enable communication across much greater distances.”

Mr Wilce said while the repeaters had been installed for disaster response, they were available to the community for everyday use.

“All you need is any UHF-CB equipment, commonly available in vehicles and handheld radios,” he said.

“While the repeaters are available to the community, if other communication systems fail during a significant disaster, we will take control of the network to ensure communications are managed and we can all stay in touch.

“Communication during and after a disaster is key, and these repeaters are an important part of our community’s connectivity.”

The repeater for Atherton is repeater channel 1, repeater channel 2 for Mount Garnet and repeater channel 3.for Millaa Millaa.

One of the new UHF-CB repeaters being installed at Millaa Millaa.

Where parents and children want to ensure that money loaned gets repaid in the event of the adult child’s relationship breakdown, they may take a number of steps prior to separation including: 1. Ensure the loan is documented in writing and there are provisions such as, repayment on sale of the property, or other repayment terms.

2. Take partial ownership of the property or asset in question.

3. The child and their partner enter into a binding financial agreement that upon separation any monies loaned would be repaid to the parents.

If you require assistance with the division of your property post-separation you can contact our family law team on 07 4092 3555.

222 Byrnes St, Mareeba | 4092 3555

LOCAL LAWYERS SERVICING www.millerharris.com.au ATHERTON TABLELANDS

PAGE 20 The Express, Wednesday, May 11, 2022 SPECIALISING IN

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

‘The Rainmaker’s Eden’

BY TIMOTHY NEVARD AND STANLEY BREEDEN

THE natural history of the Atherton Tablelands and their magnificent mountain is one of Australia’s most dramatic and important.

Pivotal to the Tablelands’ unique climate is The Rainmaker - Mount Bartle Frere, Choorichillum in the language of First Nations Ngadjon people.

At 1611 metres, The Rainmaker is the highest mountain in Queensland and the summit point of the range separating the Tablelands from the intensely humid coastal lowlands and Coral Sea. The Rainmaker created and now manages the unique highland tropical climate of the Tablelands, nurturing its immense natural and cultural diversity.

Collaborating with the southeast trade winds and monsoon, The Rainmaker delivers the rain that has kept rainforests growing uninterrupted here for millions of years.

Since time immemorial Australia’s climate has fluctuated.

During warm, humid times rainforests radiated from the mountain and its Tablelands.

When times were dry or cold they retreated, and when the continent became hotter and drier, eucalypts and wattles, in the main, took over – except in the embrace of The Rainmaker, where its ancient rainforests still thrive.

On their arrival 50,00060,000 years ago, First Nations people encountered an immensely rich natural history, with many now lost giant mammals, reptiles, and birds living alongside today’s multitude of remaining species.

This immensely rich fauna exerted a profound influence on peoples’ lives, helping to mould unique enduring regional cultures and leaving their mark on the landscape.

Millennia later, European settlers made use of the Tablelands’ timber and fertile soils to establish farms, which although they have impacted on native species of plants and animals have somehow managed to retain a significant level of natural diversity – avoiding the levels of local extinctions experienced in most other Australian regions.

Much of what remains is unique - rainforest so dense and complex that forests grow within forests and plants upon plants.

EVERY LANDSCAPE HAS A STORY TO TELL

The heart of the Atherton Tablelands at dawn, with Mt Bartle Frere (The Rainmaker, Choorichillum in Ngadjon-jii, Queensland’s highest mountain), Mt Quincan (Australia’s most recently active volcano) and one of the Seven Sisters. Photographer: Jürgen Freund.

At 60 million years old, the rainforests of The Rainmaker and Tablelands are the most ancient broadleaved rainforests on earth, where earliest flowering plants live beside some of the most highly evolved.

The direct ancestors of eucalypts, she-oaks and banksias, now dominating much of the Australian landscape, still thrive here.

It’s a place where possums are green and kangaroos climb

trees; where golden birds build huge structures out of twigs and decorate them with orchid flowers; where birds of paradise in iridescent plumage dance and posture on their stages; and modern-day feathered dinosaurs, nearly two metres tall, stride through the undergrowth.

A place of wonder and significance.

All this flourishes in a rugged landscape where you can watch the mountain make rain

Millstream Falls, Australia’s widest waterfall when in full flood and one of the most iconic places around Ravenshoe.

Photographer: Luke Harvey

THE TIME HAS COME

and wild water cascade down rocky gorges, plunging over a thousand waterfalls.

Granite of great age lies next to volcanic cones and deep crater lakes, some of which were blasted out of the earth as geologically recently as 10,000 years ago and recorded in First Nations’ oral history.

It's clear that the Tablelands is not just any place, it is a true tropical Gondwanan relict, what remains of the tropical rainfor-

ests that once covered Australia.

Some of the plants that flourished then are still here and only here. Even older fossil Kauris, almost indistinguishable from those growing 60 million years ago, can be found growing on the banks of Lake Barrine today.

There is no other place like it.

Because of its geography – a tableland of volcanic soils with moisture-bearing windward trades, located at a key latitude between tall mountains and the

Australian Sarus Cranes – The Atherton Tablelands is their most important wintering site in the Southern Hemisphere.

Photographer: Jürgen Freund.

Great Dividing Range – the Tablelands have been and will remain significantly less subject to the excesses of climate change.

Once we have managed to moderate human-induced climate change, as we must, it is essential that the biodiversity of The Rainmaker and its Tablelands remains in waiting to recolonise a blasted continent.

Over the past few years, the realisation has come to many that these forests could hold the master key to Australia’s natural heritage.

Despite their ancient lineage and restricted distribution, our regional rainforests and monsoon woodlands are not stagnating remnants. They’re vigorous and varied, one of the world’s greatest natural treasures and untold stories.

Through their celebration in art and literature, their inestimable value must be brought to the attention of as wide an audience as possible. The Atherton Tablelands Foundation was established to celebrate this.

But it’s not just about ecology, there is a special quality of light on the Tablelands, which cannot fail to have influenced all those who were born, have worked, visited or come to live in its truly magnificent and important landscapes.

More than anyone though, younger people realise that recognition of Australia’s landscape legacy relies on equal respect for all its natural and cultural elements. They know this is vital to their future and all generations to come.

People have been associated with the natural history of The Rainmaker and its Tablelands for 50,000-60,000 years.

Telling the story of the immensely diverse fauna from before First Nations people arrived up until the present day, will engage audiences across society and help the wider community to realise how deeply this amazing natural treasure can enrich the daily lives of each and every one of us.

The Foundation is developing keystone projects to bring into focus this amazing and little recognised significance, diversity, and ecological importance – especially important in this time of unprecedented climate change.

As the founding initiative of the Atherton Tablelands Foundation, the “Lost Giants of the Atherton Tablelands” project is designed to bring this story to life.

ADVERTISEMENT

BUILD THE BRIDLE TRACK TUNNEL

19 minutes from Cairns to Mareeba Access to a port from the Cape, Gulf and Tablelands, opening up Chillagoe Mineral Province and more farming.

60,000 people are trapped without a safe route to the region’s major city.

We can get the money. $2B was spent on the Cairns to Gordonvale highway in the Kennedy electorate.

Contact my office for more info: p: (07) 4092 1632 e: bob.katter.mp@aph.gov.au or visit www.bobkatter.com.au AUTHORISED BY BOB KATTER, CORNER OF OWEN AND EDITH STREETS INNISFAIL

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

The Express, Wednesday, May 11, 2022 PAGE 21

Our Council Our Community OUR ROADS

Project Updates

Road Upgrades We’ve nearly completed around $14M of road upgrades across the region.

One kilometere of Gunnawarra Road near Mount Garnet was sealed in December ($357k) and 985m of Mehmet Road in Tolga was also recently sealed ($340k). Nearly 396m of Lawson Street in Tolga was widened and sealed, and kerb and channel constructed on the eastern side ($290k)*.

Earlier in the year we upgraded 1km of Seamark Road in Jaggan ($42k).

We’ve just commenced $728k of roadworks and sealing of 260m of Hemmings Lane at Upper Barron, 100m of Hough Road in Kairi, 464m of Mapee Road near Tolga, 670m of Pinnacle Pocket Road at East Barron and 386m of Shead Road in Tolga.

We also recently commenced a $993k project to widen and seal various sections of Brooks Road in Mungalli*.

Before the end of the financial year we will seal the remainder of Daly Street ($100k) and a further 80m of Tostevin Street ($45k) in Tolga.

English Street Upgrade English Street in Malanda received a $455 major upgrade that included new asphalt, pedestrian and safety improvements, parking and landscaping.

The project was completed in early November.

Bitumen Reseal & Gravel Resheet Programs This year’s $2.2M bitumen reseal program improved skid resistance and waterproofing, and extended the life of the underlying road surface of roads in Walkamin, Tinaroo, Kairi, Tolga, Yungaburra, Barrine, Danbulla, Millaa Millaa, Maalan, Middlebrook and Malanda.

Our $2.66M gravel resheeting program is 80% complete and has improved nearly 60km of gravel roads across our region.

Beantree Road Intersection Upgrades Work has commenced on the widening and resurfacing of two intersections on Beantree Road to improve heavy vehicle safety. The Albrecht Street and Barson Road intersections will remain open during construction, which is expected to take until the end of June**.

Follow these and other projects, and find out where we are slashing and grading each month at trc.qld.gov.au/projects.

Take Care We want everyone to get home safely. Take care around roadworks and ensure you heed speed limits, safety signs and instructions from traffic controllers. Thank you for your patience as we work to maintain and improve our road network.

External Funding

*Proudly funded by the Queensland Government through the Transport Infrastructure Development Scheme (TIDS) and TRC. **These projects are jointly funded by the Australian Government through the Heavy Vehicle Safety and Productivity Program, and TRC.

Asphalt Work

Asphalt will be replaced on a 65m section of Marks Lane, near the Atherton-Malanda Road ($75k), and a 1.9km section of Northey Road near Tolga ($180k).

The final section (1.2km) of Curtain Fig Tree Road, through the national park, will also have the asphalt replaced ($300k).

We acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the Tablelands Region and pay respect to Elders past, present and emerging.

PAGE 22 The Express, Wednesday, May 11, 2022

Project Updates

Customer service centres in Atherton, Herberton, Malanda and Ravenshoe www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

Please be my voice. Save my home and my life!

Rethinking Renewables

" n e e r g " t o n " not "clean

and their ecological impacts:

how will they affect you?

THIS IS SERIOUS. Did you know that vast swathes of the NQ Great Dividing Range, home to countless species of wildlife, are slated to be cleared for windfarms? In the midst of an extinction crisis, inappropriately sited renewable developments will destroy habitat, kill and maim wildlife and potentially spell doom for entire species. Once inaccessible NQ high altitude landscapes offered wildlife a refuge from the hell of habitat destruction and a warming climate. This is set to change if we don't stand up to say No. WE SAY NO. The cumulative impacts of so many renewable developments in NQ have not been considered in Government policy. Red Goshawks, Greater Gliders, Koalas, Sharman's Rock-Wallabies and countless other species live in these mountains. This is their only home. Let's protect what's left for the wildlife and for our future generations.

WE NEED YOU TO STAND WITH US. Please come to this educational meeting. Bring family and friends. Become informed about the ecological impacts and what we can do to STOP these unethical renewable developments. *complimentary refreshments served

WHEN: Sunday 15th May, 1pm - 3pm WHERE: Cairns Colonial Club Conference Centre, Lockhart Room. 18-26 Cannon Street, Cairns, Queensland 4870.

Parking on Behan st. RSVP info@rainforestreserves.org.au www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

The Express, Wednesday, May 11, 2022 PAGE 23

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MOTHER’S DAY ATHERTON RSL – 8 May

What Kennedy's got $2,000m Gordonvale to Cairns Hwy, divided, four-lane. $100m Hann Hwy sealed (fruit and veg route) cuts 1500km off round trip to Vic from Tablelands/Tully. $6m Mission Beach breakwater - only safe harbour between Cairns and Townsville.

Feluga intersection rebuild (one death a year).

Cyclone Niran banana farmer support payments. $10,000m Cyclone Reinsurance Pool for Nth Aust. $180m for the Hughenden HIPCo Dam Project (to create 200 owner-operator farms).

Announced closure of Mount Isa's copper and fertiliser reversed.

Funding for Copperstring Transmission line. $1,500m to 2019 North Qld flood recovery. $3m Tully rugby league/sports grandstand built. $28m Ch. Towers weir for irrigation, town supply and hopefully a meatworks.

Mornington, Doomadgee and Yarrabah Market Gardens to combat diabetes and malnutrition.

HECS alleviation to attract doctors to our towns. $7.5m for dredging and sewerage at Cardwell (more to come).

Jon and Peta Nott.

Geoff and Honor Reddington.

Shanel Wyatt, Leigh Woltmann and Glenda Smith.

What we're fighting for North Johnstone Transfer (Atherton Tablelands/Mareeba water).

Make money projects', not 'absorb money projects'.

Sovereign Fuel and Electricity Security (1. ethanol and algae, 2. waste-to-diesel plants, 3. ban oil exports (refine in Aust.) and 4. Aust.-made electric cars and buses (n.b. metro and govt. use only).

Missile Fortress wall for Australia.

A rifle for every boy in the high school armoury.

(Cadets/Guerrilla Army/girls too) Cairns-built patrol boats equipped with missiles.

An army battalion in Mount Isa (1,000 men).

Bridle Track Tunnel, Mareeba to Cairns in 19 mins.

Populate 12 Gulf and Mid-West towns through owneroperator, ballot scheme irrigation.

Towns will grow to 25,000.

Acreage housing blocks, so miners can live in the communities they work in, not Brisbane fly-ins.

Ingham's Stone River Weirs (crop diversification).

To every North Qld family, acreage. That acreage = their kingdom.

A restoration of the free society we once had.

Joy Cooper and Marian Lynch

Murray and Annette Baxter

CRUISE IN Atherton’s Men’s Shed – 6 May

RIGHT: Chris Batch with the Royal Enfield Bullet 500.

BELOW: Ron Schilling with the 1964 EH Holden Sedan Ex Group Race Car.

LIVE IN THE ELECTORATE? Contact my office. Local call, 1300 301 942 P (07) 4092 1632 | F (07) 4092 6114 141 Byrnes Street, Mareeba PO Box 2206, Mareeba - Advertisement Authorised by Bob Katter, Corner of Owen and Edith Streets Innisfail

PAGE 24 The Express, Wednesday, May 11, 2022

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

ENTERTAINMENT High Tea helps kids in Kenya

IN order to raise much needed funds to support kids in Kenya, local charity REGAINED hosted a high tea in Atherton on Saturday, with participants dressing up and enjoying an afternoon of cakes, tea and entertainment.

Organiser of the high tea and president of REGAINED Robyn Lindsay said she was excited to be hosting a full house of people and thanks everyone for their generous donations to help children in Kenya regain opportunities lost through disability, poverty or being orphaned.

Margaret Dickenson (left) enjoyed the delights of the high tea with Philomena Joseph and Danuta Tanko.

Debbie Scrivens enjoyed the event with her children, Debbie and Zachery.

Prapree Mazlin (left), Mirella Brown, Sandra Freeman and Denise Peterson at the high tea on Saturday.

Sandy Bunce attended the tea with her mother-in-law Margaret Bunce.

A T H E R T O N P E R F O R M I N G A R T S Y O U T H T H E A T R E P R E S E N T S

William Shakespeare's

A Midsummer Night's Dream

DAIRY FARMERS

2022

Animals at the show: horses, dairy and beef cattle, poultry, goats, sheep and an animal nursery

Farmer’s Challenge

DIRECTED BY SARAH RIBER

Animal Nursery Street Parade Milking Challenge Schedules available from our website www.malandashow.com.au

Silo Road Theatre, Atherton Sat May 14th 7.30pm Sun May 15th 2.30pm Fri May 20th 7.30pm Sat May 21st 5.30pm

Tickets $15 & $10 from Tableland Books, Vernon St, & Athertonperformingarts. com.au

First weekend of school holidays

Purchase tickets online on Trybooking: Malanda Show

Live Music Friday and Saturday Night Saturday Night Fireworks MAJOR

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

3 Day Family Pass

$65!

SPONSOR

The Express, Wednesday, May 11, 2022 PAGE 25

ENTERTAINMENT across the region

Former bodyguard releases his life in new tell all book

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A TABLELANDS local has released a recollection of his life in his autobiography, from the battlefronts of Vietnam to the steps of revered spiritual sites across the world.

Darrell McDowall has written and released Gurus’ Bodyguard, an autobiography of his experiences in Vietnam and his consequential journey for new beliefs after witnessing its horrors.

Mr McDowall lived on the Tablelands for much of his life, growing up Tolga where his family owned a hotel and in Mareeba where his father owned a butcher shop.

“The Vietnam War pushed me to write this book as I lost all old beliefs during that combat and went searching for replacements to those beliefs,” Mr McDowall said.

“I learnt many wonderful things about life and wished to pass them on.

“This book is about my time in Vietnam as an infantryman and then a special services soldier.”

Mr McDowall includes many of his experiences and learnings in his book that he gathered from his travels across the world.

“The main part of the book is about all the famous people I served as a bodyguard, especially the spiritual leaders and what they taught and my interviews of them about life, love, marriage, etc,” he said.

“The book seemed to have a will of its own and now was the perfect timing for its release as the world is ready for change and this information heralds that.”

The book can be bought on Amazon as an E-book for $9.90 or a hard cover for just over $20.

Darrell McDowall has released his autobiography Gurus’ Bodyguard, a book about his experiences and learnings.

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The Express, Wednesday, May 11, 2022 PAGE 27

ON LAND the

Mareeba to put agriculture under the spotlight RESEARCH and development of Far North Queensland’s major agricultural commodities will come under the spotlight at a field day in Mareeba in July.

The region’s leading horticultural advocacy group, FNQ Growers, is bringing together the peak bodies from the major crops, along with industry stakeholders, for a one-day event on 29 July.

FNQ Growers president Joe Moro said the purpose of the event was to offer current and potential growers an opportunity to learn the latest from the key commodities.

“The region is one of Queensland’s four significant fruit bowls, and home to more than 80 crops grown in an area from Lakeland in the north, south to Tully and west to Dimbulah,” Mr Moro said.

“Notwithstanding the success of our industries, our growers, like others across Australia, face enormous challenges to remain profitable and viable.

“By bringing the key players under one roof we hope growers and other interested parties will be able to receive first-hand information that may help shape their future farming decisions.”

The field day will consist of a series of exhibits from the various commodities, industry stakeholders and commercial operators.

To complement the displays, an information forum will be delivered on key topics relevant to industry in Far North Queensland.

Opportunities are available for commercial exhibits. For more information contact Lea Coghlan, 0447 874 394 or email communications@fnqgrowers.com.au TGT is the major partner for the event.

PAGE 28 The Express, Wednesday, May 11, 2022

LINKING NATIONAL PARKS: 2500 trees have been planted on Michael McAuliffe’s Tablelands property with the help of TREAT volunteers and a grant from Terrain NRM.

Massive tree planting to create wildlife corridors NATIONAL park areas at Crater Lakes and Wooroonooran are being connected following a community revegetation blitz on private land.

Tablelands residents Elaine and Michael McAuliffe have joined a growing number of private landholders working to conserve key forest habitats in the Wet Tropics. Located in a priority wildlife corridor used by endangered rainforest species including the southern cassowary, the couple received a grant through Terrain NRM to revegetate their property.

The grants are part of Terrain’s Building Rainforest Resilience project, which supports willing landholders and threatened species recovery groups to improve or protect important habitat. Activities include revegetation, weed management and habitat protection. This project is supported by Terrain through funding from the Australian Government’s National Landcare Program.

Terrain’s rainforest leader Tony O’Malley said the program aimed to reconnect and buffer large and fragmented areas of habitat.

“We are working closely with threatened species recovery teams, whose members advise us on the grants process,” he said.

“The Cassowary Recovery Team, for example, has identified six priority corridors

in the Wet Tropics and much of the land is outside protected national park or world heritage area. We offer landholders in those corridors resources for conserving and improving their patches of rainforest.”

The McAuliffes had already planted more than 6000 trees on their former dairy farming block since buying it in the 1980s.

They used Terrain’s grant money to engage local contractor Mark McCaffrey for more revegetation work with support from landcare group Trees for the Evelyn and Atherton Tablelands (TREAT).

“Lots of the revegetated parts of the property now look like natural forest,’’ Mr McAuliffe said.

“Unfortunately I got some bad advice back in the ’80s and there was a section where I planted 1000 Caribbean pines, which aren’t the right thing at all, and they all blew over in a cyclone.

“For years I’d been thinking about filling in the area where the pines fell in, so when I found out I could apply for a Rainforest Resilience Grant I grabbed the opportunity with both hands.

“I’m 80 years old now and reveg is hard work on the knees and back so I’m glad to have the support. I was inspired by the work being done on the western side of Lake Ea-

cham, connecting the Crater Lakes and Wooroonoonan.”

TREAT volunteers recently planted 2500 trees on the McAuliffe’s property.

“For decades TREAT has been working with landholders to revegetate degraded lands and create corridors for wildlife on the Tablelands,’’ Mr O’Malley said.

“Much of the work done through the Rainforest Resilience grants builds on work by community organisations like TREAT.” Terrain’s Indigenous Partnerships Officer Michael Morta said it was good to be involved in the tree planting event as both a Nadjon-Jii person and a Terrain staff member.

“Traditional owners are keen to be involved in projects like this in their traditional country and that also contribute to their local communities,” he said.

Mr McAuliffe said it was amazing to see what a community of people could do in a short period of time.

“I just like nature. I’m no mad greenie, but I think the world’s gone mad with land clearing and I believe that every little contribution – including mine – helps. It’s a beautiful part of the world up here and it deserves to be looked after.”

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

ON LAND the

Massive valuations rise angers local landholders

BY SALLY TURLEY

A HUGE increase in the Etheridge Shire's unimproved property valuations released by the Valuer-General in March has created an uproar amongst landowners in the district, prompting local grazier Lou Keough to form an action group against the rises.

The Keough family have experienced rises of between 107-250 per cent across their six properties, “Lyndhurst”, “Welcome Downs”, “Mywin”, “Lynwater”, “The Lynd” and the 13,835-ha “Maitland Downs”, which the family purchased for $9.8 million in December 2018.”

“There is great concern and anger amongst landholders who don't see the increases as fair and equitable, for although urban land values have generally reduced by 26.7 per cent, the shire's 132 primary production blocks have risen by an average of 191.7 per cent across the board,” Mrs Keough said.

While the Boulia, Burke, Carpentaria and Croydon shires have all had massive leaps of 222-350 per cent, Cairns and Townsville cities only increased by 46 and 47 per cent respectively, the Cassowary Coast by only 10 per cent and the

Douglas shire by just 2 per cent.

“In their justification of the rises, council has tagged the high beef prices, the historically low interest rates and generally favourable exchange rates (USD) as drivers, but we all know that beef prices have been falling rapidly on the back of the failed wet season, interest rates are on the way back up and a favourable American dollar does not always translate into better cattle prices,” Mrs Keough said.

Grazier and former Etheridge councillor, George Ryan of “Ballynure” Station, said the increases presented a real problem for the shire.

“Mayors from every affected shire, in a united front with Agforce, should have been straight on a plane to Brisbane, protesting violently to the Valuer-General to get these valuations down,” he said.

Landowners who disagree with their valuation and are able to provide supporting information can lodge their objection online or at the address shown at the top of their valuation notice. If landholders do not have internet access, they can call 1300 664 217 to request an objection kit.

But it must be done by 30 May.

“There is no more time to lose to make government understand the industry has just come out of a debt crisis situation and there is just not enough juice in the chop for huge rate rises,” Mr Ryan said.

“Council must focus on pushing back valuation increases, because while they have the power to alter the rate calculation formula, if they drop the cents in the dollar rate too far, they will jeopardise major annual financial assistance grants such as the state government's water drainage grant.

“The rural industry has been struggling for the last 30 years and it feels like the minute there is a bit of sunshine, everyone has their hand out. My wife Miranda and I have been trying to expand our business in small bites, and just have to hope the council doesn't rate our smaller blocks out of existence.”

Etheridge shire mayor and cattle producer Barry Hughes said recent property sales in the Georgetown and Croydon area meant some rises were not totally unexpected, but the scale of the leap in valuations had taken people by surprise.

“We are holding a series of rate workshops over the next few weeks in prepa-

ration for our annual budget meeting and will be using all the tools in our financial kit to work around classification and rate of cents in the dollar,” he said.

“We will be going through everything with a fine-tooth comb – we kept rates static in 2020 and only increased them at the CPI rate last year, so to some extent 2022 will be the year of reckoning.

“We support people’s right to challenge valuations and urge them to do so as a group for the most productive result, but council can only soften the impact so much, while still taking care of council business.

“The rate base represents just under seven per cent of council's annual operating costs, so are a fairly small part of the funding pie. They are important to the budget, but will never be enough.

“It is important to remember that the increases are for unimproved values.

Rates sit separately to that and we have to be careful not to build that bridge. At the end of the day, we may see incremental increases over a period of time.”

Deputy mayor and aspiring grazier Laurel Prior said imminent rate rises presented another challenge for young families trying to get a start in the industry.

“Aaron and I have spent the last 10 years building our cattle numbers with the sole aim of getting ourselves in a position to buy a property,” she said.

“We have 2000 head agisted across the State and believed the current high cattle prices and low interest rates might have provided the ideal environment for us to take that leap of faith.

“But the goal posts keep shifting and these huge valuation increases have us thinking we may have already missed the boat, especially as we now have to compete increasingly with southern interests looking for farming land in the Georgetown area.”

Grazier Malcolm McClymont, who has two properties in the shire, said he would be seeking legal advice and would be joining the protest group.

“If you don't do anything about it you are saying you accept it,” he said.

“My father used to protest every time there was an unimproved valuation increase on the premise that he had done all the work and paid all the costs improving his country, only to be penalised by rate and rent rises.”

Watershed time for dairy industry EAST Aus Milk councillor and fourth generation dairy farmer James Geraghty has foreshadowed a watershed announcement ahead for Tableland farmers and drawn attention to the acute milk shortage that is currently gripping Queensland in a response to Member for Hill Shane Knuth’s recent remarks about the industry.

Mr Knuth has hit out at Federal Agriculture Minister David Littleproud’s recent comments in which he blamed drought and supermarkets for the drastic decline in dairy farm numbers.

Prior to deregulation in 2000, there were over 268 dairy farmers on the Tablelands but this number has shrunk to 48.

Mr Knuth said it was an LNP Federal Government who deregulated the dairy industry in 2000 and handed complete power and control to processors and major supermarkets.

He said while those factors played a huge part in the decline of the industry, particularly through the dollar a litre milk war era, both the Federal and State Governments stood by and allowed this to happen.

“It’s a bit disingenuous for the Federal Agriculture Minister to deflect and lay blame on others, while the Federal Government has stood by for the last two decades. For years, Bob Katter and I have been warning both governments that we needed to improve legislation to give dairy farmers a better price for their milk.”

Mr Geraghty said while they were always grateful for Mr Knuth’s support, he was focused on the issues around the milk shortage being experienced at the moment.

“Why is there discounted milk on Woolworths shelves in the middle of a milk shortage?

Why are there cheaper lines of milk sitting beside a notice listing the numerous dairy products unavailable to customers because of that shortage right now?” he asked.

“Queensland is currently trucking 500,000 litres of milk per day in from New South Wales to address our supply shortages and New South Wales have been relying on Victorian farmers to top them up. Now Victoria is boating milk in from Tasmania to ensure they have enough to supply their customers.”

Australians consume 9 billion litres of milk annually and domestic production has declined

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

MPs Bob Katter and Shane Knuth at Gallo’s Dairyland. Picture: BRIAN CASSEY.

from 11.27 billion litres in 2002 to 8.7 billion litres in 2019.

“Our milk price has lifted to $1.30 per litre, but we are looking for an increase on that figure when Bega delivers its 1 June announcement on the 2022 price they will pay our farmers,” he said.

“We are happy to be supplying Bega, an Australian owned company, that wants as much milk as we can produce and wants to grow our market. Bega have been saying all the right things, but this is a watershed point in the history of our industry.”

Mr Geraghty said when deregulation occurred in 2000, the price for market milk dropped 17c/ litre overnight and continued its downward spiral in the years that followed.

“If June’s price isn’t high enough, remaining dairy farmers will be sitting down around kitchen tables across the region and making decisions as a family about their farming futures.

“You can’t just stop dairying, but those decisions will manifest over the next 3-5 years as farmers dispose of dairy herds and convert to beef or sell their properties altogether.

“But until we see dairies being sold to purchasers who intend to continue to run them as dairies and even the beginning of farmers buying beef properties to convert them back to dairies, we will know the milk price on offer isn’t sufficient for dairying to stack up as a business.”

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The Express, Wednesday, May 11, 2022 PAGE 29

LETTERS to theEDITOR

The Express reserves the right to edit letters

Give Mareeba people their voice back IN relation to your recent edition dated 27 April 2022, one could not help to see the large one page spread from the Mareeba Council giving a detailed “community update” within the Shire, although it was a shame to see some of the most important topics of our town once again missed or vague in response.

An extra update from the mayor on the water strategy and Mareeba’s community safety topics was also included. A far cry from many previous articles when we were told the responsibility is on the “other agencies”.

Why won’t the council talk about their view on what really is occurring to our poor town – the destruction of so many trees, grass and shrubs along Byrnes street, the dump fees, the rate rises, the dreaded putrid smell of rubbish trucks that go through Byrnes street, the overgrown unmown parks and cemeteries, the missing consultation process of the waterpark location (will there be a admission fee?) or the lack of security cameras and the ongoing graffiti, and the long list of stolen cars and crime that has turned Mareeba into the wild west.

By now, if you walk, drive and go anywhere near Byrnes Street, at particular times, it is obvious there are several “no go zones” for your own safety. To be abused, picked on, or sworn or yelled at, is a common occurrence at these locations.

Drivers of vehicles should also be aware for they too could be targeted with items thrown at their vehicle or added abuse for such measure.

Sadly, effective security cameras within our township would have fixed such anti-social behaviour, but council will not support such an idea.

I pity the many businesses in Byrnes Street that have succumbed to so much crime, abuse, smashed windows, graffiti, wilful damage, theft, public nuisance offences, as well as the smell of the dreaded rubbish trucks roaring through our township. It’s beyond me how you all survive,

not to mention the two car park garden bays that take away much-needed parks located in front of some businesses.

A recent effective petition attracted some 1430 signatures online for a shared vision for our central business district after the removal of so many trees, scrubs and grass, but not a word can be found if it will be supported.

All for the “betterment of the town” we were told, after so much consultation….. what consultation? The majority of Byrnes Street businesses stated very clearly that no one had even approached them.

When will the people have a voice and be heard. When do we get our Mareeba community back? That’s the real question to be answered.

Michael Musumeci MAREEBA

Rocky road for reliability out west WHEN a driver in the city types a destination into their mapping tool, real-time satellite navigation displays a finely detailed route, including tolls and highways.

When a driver in the bush types a destination into their mapping tool, it’s not uncommon to be sent on an absurd route halfway around the state.

People travelling from Cairns to Darwin are being directed from Burketown to Doomadgee, and people searching for Burdekin Falls Dam are sent to a private homestead near Charters Towers.

In the most preposterous navigation glitch yet, Google Maps has been blamed for misguiding a truck carrying live crocodiles to a cane farm, where the truck bogged and came precariously close to tipping over.

Not only are these faults putting travellers, tourists and animals at potential risk, but there’s no seemingly efficient system to report and correct the mistakes.

My office receives repeated complaints from rural constituents that when they call government hotlines or Telstra to report problems, the operator has never heard of

the place the person is calling from, or incorrect mapping fails to correctly locate them.

In short, some great technology doesn’t work out in the bush and it’s the same for government policy.

The unreliability of technology in the bush runs in stark parallel to the failures of government policy outside the city; like government policy, technology doesn’t work west of the Great Divide.

One strong example was when the new national curriculum was rolled out to the Distance Education Centres. The learning material was offered to remote cattle stations through data links which rapidly consumed the available data, effectively disabling the families’ businesses and their children’s education.

And the inadequacies don’t stop there.

Lockdowns, insufficient internet connectivity, waste levies, Blue Cards in First Australian communities, incorporating Year 7 into high school, and tree-clearing laws – they all work in the city but fall apart in the bush.

Rural Queensland is forgotten on almost every front when it comes to government policy.

Perhaps most painful is the chronic underfunding in rural healthcare, which continues to cost lives.

I have been very vocal on these challenges across my electorate of Traeger, notably in Charters Towers, where a longawaited dialysis clinic is still yet to open, and pregnant women have to travel hours to give birth because the local hospital isn’t equipped.

Rural Queenslanders deserve far better than what they’re getting and I have a front row seat in observing the contrast on my regular travel between South East Queensland far remote areas.

In the snowballing roll-out of some magnificent technologies it is time for government to pause and reflect on whether we want to take the state ahead together equitably, or not.

Robbie Katter Member for Traeger, Katter Australian Party Leader

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Download for FREE from iTunes or Google Play PAGE 30 The Express, Wednesday, May 11, 2022

ESTABLISHED 1972

DOMESTIC and family violence is often a crime hidden from public view, committed in the family home and perpetrated by intimate partners or family members.

Some of the most common forms of domestic violence include one party being physically, emotionally or economically abusive or controlling towards the other party.

Domestic violence can occur to anyone and is perpetrated throughout the community with far reaching effects on everyone whether they are directly or indirectly involved.

Those directly affected include the victim, the victim’s children and the victim’s immediate family members.

Immediate family members will often be isolated from contacting the victim to ensure the perpetrator can continue their offending.

The ongoing effects on the victim and their children can cause years of psychological trauma even after the perpetrator is no longer offending.

The people indirectly effected by domestic violence include everyone within the greater community including friends, workplaces and schools.

Friends can be indirectly affected when the victim recalls violent events that have occurred, causing possible secondary trauma.

Workplaces are affected in productivity loss when the victim is away from work or their productivity is affected due to being unable to concentrate.

Schools are affected by the children who have experienced trauma being unable to concentrate in the classroom or suffering the effects of trauma which can have ongoing effects on other children at the school.

May is Domestic and Family Violence Month, with this year’s theme “All of us together”.

This is a timely reminder that domestic and family violence is a community issue and that although not all of us are directly affected, nearly everyone is indirectly affected by it.

It is also up to all of us to ensure that we stand up and hold perpetrators of domestic and family violence accountable.

The Queensland Police Service relies on the support of community members to provide information about domestic violence so that we can investigate and hold the perpetrators accountable.

Reporting domestic and family violence is critical – if we don’t know about it, we can’t respond.

If you or someone you know is being impacted by domestic and family violence, we encourage you to report it to police or access support services: • If the incident is happening now or there is immediate danger call Triple Zero (000) • For non-urgent domestic and family violence matters, contact Policelink any time on 131 444 • If making a phone call or visiting a police station isn’t a safe option, you can request contact with police online for non-urgent domestic and family violence at: https://www.police.qld.gov.au/domestic-violence • A range of material and support services are available www.qld.gov.au/community/getting-support-health-socialissue/support-victims-abuse/domestic-family-violence • Don’t be a bystander – everyone has a role to play in preventing domestic and family violence.

• If you or someone you know is impacted by domestic and family violence, please reach out.

Acting Sergeant Casey Leishman, Tablelands Domestic and Family Violence Coordinator, said that as members of the community, we all play an important part in stopping domestic violence.

“The actions we take by reporting domestic violence when we see it occurring or by calling out our mates when we hear inappropriate comments made, all contribute to how domestic violence is perceived or accepted in our community,” Acting Sergeant Leishman said.

Support and counselling is available from the following agencies: • DVConnect Womensline: 1800 811 811 • DVConnect Mensline: 1800 600 636 • 1800 RESPECT: 1800 737 732 More information is also available from the Queensland Government Domestic and Family Violence portal.

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

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PROPERTY

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

Breeding and backgrounding country

SET on 5013.83 acres* across 2 titles of freehold, open forest country, ‘Oaky Springs’ is a rare cattle property located only 2kms* outside of Mount Garnet.

Currently run as a breeding and backgrounding property, Oakey Springs provides the ability for considerable versatility coupled with a comfortable carrying capacity of 350 breeders.

Predominantly gently undulating with a heavy coverage of legumes and grasses, there are 7 main paddocks with laneways connected for ease of cattle movement.

Well-watered the property features 4 bores, 1 permanent spring and 5 dams with town water also connected. Five paddocks have natural, permanent water

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and there are 7 concrete water troughs overall.

The homestead showcases modern living with 3 bedrooms plus office, a newly renovated kitchen, open plan design, stone fireplace, modern bathroom and entertaining deck which overlooks the in-ground pool.

Further infrastructure includes; timber/steel cat-

tle yards, 6 bay machinery shed and an attached 3 bay workshop/shed.

This property is being sold via Expressions of Interests. All offers must be submitted, in writing, by the date and time of closure.

Closure: 12PM, May 12th 2022. EOI forms and Information Memorandum can be secured by contacting the agent or our office.

For more information contact Exclusive agent, Morgan Brennan, at Ray White Atherton on 0407 730 450

Address: Price: Agent: Contact:

or (07) 4091 7111. Visit www.raywhiteruralatherton.com.au/L18131025 for more information.

MT GARNET Expressions of Interest EXCLUSIVE to Morgan Brennan Ray White Atherton 0407 730 450

The Express, Wednesday, May 11, 2022 PAGE 31

PROPERTY

Convenient living in fantastic location

IDEALLY located in a stone throw from the township of Atherton, surrounded by private and public-school options, shopping centres & medical services.

This neat and tidy property would suit our first home buyers, investor or couples looking to downsize. This home comes complete with

3 spacious bedrooms, solid masonry block construction, with a spacious bathroom, lounge, and dining area, this is an open plan living space big enough for the whole family, a single bay garage is just off the living area and flows to the laundry to the rear of the carport.

An expansive 1,223m2

PAGE 32 The Express, Wednesday, May 11, 2022

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

block will allow yard space for the children and pets, a lawn locker for all your garden needs, and still, plenty of room to add an inground pool or a large shed.

Currently tenanted, mini-

mum 24hrs needed for any inspections.

To book your inspection today, call Exclusive Agent Albi Homann 4091 3144 at LJ Hooker Atherton.

Address: Price: Agent: Contact:

19 Tumbare Steet, ATHERTON $345,000 EXCLUSIVE to Albi Homann LJ HOOKER Atherton 4091 3144

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PROPERTY

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

Lifestyle acreage all set up for horses

ENJOY the freedom of space & the lifestyle that only an acreage property offers.

This 5 acre property is still within easy reach of town and features a 3 bedroom plus office, 2 bathroom, masonry block home as well as fenced paddocks, a lime orchard and all the infrastructure in place for horses.

The substantial list of inclusions are: • Fully tiled 3 bedroom + office home with 2 living areas & full length front verandah plus rear verandah overlooking the picturesque country garden • Substantial open plan main living area with stunning raked ceiling, timber feature wall with built-in display shelving & bay window off the dining area • 2nd living area with brick

bar opening out to the patio • Split-system air-conditioning in the main living area & 3 bedrooms • Sizeable Tasmanian Oak timber kitchen with Essa stone tops, loads of cupboard space & Neff induction cooktop + oven with slide & hide door • Tasmanian Oak timber hallway storage cupboards with pull out drawers • Patio with roll down shades directly off the 2nd living area via 2 sets of double timber doors with 2nd bathroom & toilet & kitchenette area • Updated main bathroom • 12 panel solar power system • 3 fenced horse paddocks with post & rail • Day/Night yard with 2 covered shelters

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• Fully fenced lunge/free jump arena • 3 horse stables with power + covered, cement floor wash down bay • Caravan shelter • Approx 150 income producing lime trees with established market plus shade shed with single phase power & timber fruit grading machine • 2 Megalitres of gravity fed water allocation • 22,000L concrete water tank & 1,000L poly rainwater tank • 2.02 ha fully fenced with Address: Price: Agent: Contact:

huge dog run & covered pen plus picturesque landscaped gardens, fire pit area with rustic shed feature & school bus collection at door It’s tucked away from the hustle and bustle yet still only 7 minutes from all town amenities and awards a peaceful country lifestyle with everything desirable for your family.

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

324 Ray Road, MAREEBA Offers Over $600,000 EXCLUSIVE to Joe Torrisi Joe Torrisi Real Estate 0417 700 468

M A R E E B A

SOLD

MORE S G LISTINED! T N A W

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

JOETORRISI.COM.AU JOE TORRISI 0417 700 468

The Express, Wednesday, May 11, 2022 PAGE 33

PROPERTY

The best type of investment – solid block AS any investor knows, it’s hard to beat the masonry block construction; and here is an opportunity to secure a 3 bedroom home in Atherton, just 300m to the Atherton Primary School and 800m to Woolworths shopping complex that would make an ideal investment property.

There are 3 bedrooms, kitchen, living dining room and a separate laundry.

A single bay carport and Address: Price: Agent: Contact:

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

garden shed in the backyard and mountain views from the front patio.

Renovate, touch up paint job, there is a plenty of potential with a small price attached.

For more information or a private inspection please contact Exclusive Agent Kaydee Chatfield At Main St Real Estate Atherton – 0417 468 941.

12 Armstrong Street, ATHERTON $319,000 EXCLUSIVE to Kaydee Chatfield Main Street Real Estate 0417 468 941

SELLING?

Settle for More Higher Price Better Service Support Throughout

Call Karen today to discuss your options 0458 408 540

www.arearealestate.com.au

PAGE 34 The Express, Wednesday, May 11, 2022

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PROPERTY

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

Weekends every day – 1 acre

Easy to live in – easy to care for

THIS freshly painted family home that is fully security screened offers more than just low maintenance living, you have the pleasure of enjoying a rural outlook with no back neighbours.

The low-set masonry block home showcases open plan living with vinyl flooring throughout and tiled wet areas; housework will be a breeze.

A neat well-appointed kitchen overlooking the outdoor area has plenty of storage cupboards and a dishwasher for those rushed mornings.

For year-round comfort the living area and the master bedroom are air conditioned.

There are three

good sized bedrooms and two of the bedrooms have built-in wardrobes.

A very spacious bathroom offers the convenience of a shower and for those lazy days there is a bathtub to enjoy a soak.

Entertaining is made easy with the large undercover area which also doubles as car accommodation for up to four vehicles.

Children can play safely in the 800sqm fully fenced allotment with a large lawn Address: Price: Agent: Contact:

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

SITUATED in Tinaroo Rise Estate amongst quality properties and only minutes from boat ramps and the inviting waters of Lake Tinaroo is this great acreage. Ideal for a weekender or permanent lifestyle that has views of the mountains and valley.

This one-acre parcel of land has power and water ready to be connected. This is the perfect block to establish a fabulous weekend getaway with a house pad already flattened providing you with access to your weekend

water pursuits.

Away from it all yet not isolated, this lifestyle estate is approximately 1.5klm to Tinaroo Village, 8klm to Tolga and approximately 12klm to Atherton. Make your holiday getaway amongst this natural environment and enjoy life on Address: Price: Agent: Contact:

the beautiful Atherton Tablelands.

Contact Exclusive marketing agent Rino Gava on 0427 779 086 or email rino@athertonrealty.com. au to explore your new property.

6 Eden Drive, KAIRI $320,000 EXCLUSIVE to Rino Gava Atherton Realty 0427 779 086

locker for the extras.

The backyard provides plenty of potential for the home gardener.

This property is in a prominent position close to the Atherton High School.

For more information, call Trisha Jackson at Professionals Atherton.

Phone 4091 3955 or 0419 1833 145 anytime. To view more photos, visit athertonrealestate.com. au ATHERTON $395,000 Trisha Jackson Professionals Atherton 0419 183 145

The Express, Wednesday, May 11, 2022 PAGE 35

PROPERTY Full of charm

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

COMFORTABLY perched on the top of the block to take in the views towards Peeramon is this beautifully presented double storey cottage on 2.5 acres.

Features include: Lower Level • Open plan lounge, dining and kitchen; air-conditioned and wood heater • Laminate kitchen - timber bench tops, gas cooktop, electric oven & rangehood • Two bedrooms • Main bathroom; separate toilet • Laundry Upper level • Two bedrooms; master with walk in robe & air-conditioned • Main bathroom which

also acts as an ensuite to the master bedroom • Office with extra storage room • Lounge with access to the balcony The patio overlooks the colourful established gardens and the veranda wraps around two sides of the house with a double carport at one end. 6kw solar system. Bore to tank. Fully screened with crim safe.

Address: Price: Agent: Contact:

There is a large 10m x 7m powered shed with remote controlled roller door and water. A 9m x 6m skillion currently houses the caravan with a lawn locker & wood shed conveniently close by.

For further information or to arrange an inspection please contact Shellie Nightingale on 0429 966 038 at Elders Real Estate Malanda.

Glaspy Road, MALANDA $559,000 Shellie Nightingale Elders Real Estate Malanda 0429 966 038

Modern home on a low maintenance allotment

THIS beautiful home will have you hooked from the minute you walk in the door...

If you want a modern home in a quiet area on a low-maintenance allotment with very little mowing to do, then this property is ideal.

The home is ready to move into with nothing for the new owner to do.

Features Include; • Rendered block villa • 3 bedrooms all with built in robes, 2 bedrooms with air-conditioning & electric

PAGE 36 The Express, Wednesday, May 11, 2022

security blinds • 3rd bedroom features an ensuite & access onto the entertainment patio • Main bathroom with a walk-in shower & vanity.

Separate toilet • Modern kitchen with electric appliances and a breakfast bar • Open plan living • Tiles, ceiling fans, security screens & plenty of storage space throughout • Covered entertainment area

• Single remote-control garage with internal access • Fully fenced backyard with a garden shed • Low maintenance living • Close to schools, shops & medical facilities Address: Price: Agent: Contact:

For further information or to arrange an inspection of this modern Atherton home, please call sole marketing agent Raquel at Sommerset Realty on 0408 983 879.

1/8 Gagetti Close, ATHERTON Offers Over $360,000 EXCLUSIVE to Raquel Cunzolo Sommerset Realty 0408 983 879

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PROPERTY

Near new in Amaroo

SEARCHING for a modern, low maintenance home in one of Mareeba's most sought-after areas? Located at 8 Moondani Avenue in Amaroo Estate, homes like this are few and far between in today's hot market.

This property is perfect for anyone starting their family, or retirees looking for a low maintenance home and it's only 3 years old!

The open plan living, dining and kitchen space flows out onto the back patio, perfect for entertaining friends and family. The kitchen features an island bench/breakfast bar with lovely stone bench tops, a large pantry space and a door connecting to the garage so you can walk the shopping straight in.

With 4 good sized bedrooms, all of which are carpeted with built-in wardrobes, and 3 with air-conditioning, there is plenty of room for the family, guests, or grandkids coming for a sleepover. The master bedroom has his &

her built-in wardrobes, splitsystem air-conditioning, and an ensuite bathroom. The family bathroom has a separate shower and tub, with the toilet separate as well.

Outside is the great eastfacing back patio which has a fantastic view of the huge backyard, perfect for the kids to play, or even better, build the shed of your dreams! Sitting on a 1,053m2 allotment there is plenty of space to do whatever you want here, and rear access is a dream with a large space between the house and fence on one side to easily reverse a caravan or large boat.

Features include: • 4 good sized bedrooms all with built-ins, 3 with airconditioning • Large master bedroom his/her built-ins and ensuite bathroom • Family bathroom with separate shower and tub, separate toilet • Kitchen with stone bench tops, island bench/breakfast

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

bar • Open plan living, dining and kitchen, vinyl plank flooring • Tiled back patio with a ceiling fan overlooking large backyard • 2 Bay garage with remote control door and concrete driveway

• Room to build a pool and the shed of your dreams!

• Easy rear access down one side of the house • 1,053m2 allotment in Amaroo Estate Properties in Amaroo Estate are as rare as hen’s teeth, so call right away, or just risk missing out.

To arrange a private inspection of this Mareeba home, contact exclusive Address: Price: Agent: Contact:

agent Remo Esposito on 0401 969 473 today at Central Realty Mareeba.

8 Moondani Avenue, MAREEBA Offers Over $500,000 EXCLUSIVE to Remo Esposito Central Realty Mareeba 0401 969 473

Grab it while it's there

A SOLID little cottage at the edge of town is available to be made your own.

This 2-bedroom Queenslander home has certainly not lost its charm. The tongue and groove walls and ceilings are as solid and authentic as when they were first build.

Both bedrooms have built in wardrobes and offer plenty of space.

The kitchen offers sufficient storage space with honest wooden cupboards and cabinets to hold all your goods. The toilet is separate to the bathroom and can be found at the end of the laundry hallway.

A concreted undercover sitting area gives opportunity to sit and enjoy an afternoon cup of tea, overlooking the Address: Price: Agent: Contact:

backyard and the large avocado tree or just to sit and watch the kids play.

A small, but solid wooden shed also resides in the backyard, that could be used as workshop or hobby room.

(R1831) • 1077m2 • Close to town center • 2 Bedroom • Separate toilet • Build in wardrobes • Large backyard • Carports • Wooden shed Don't miss out on this great opportunity.

For more information, or to book your private inspection call Susanne on 0408733149 @ Tablelands. com & Malanda Real estate.

RAVENSHOE $265,000 NEG Susanne Reynolds Tablelands.com & Malanda Real Estate 0408 733 149

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Find out what your property is worth in today’s market?

Our local market is going strong and buyer demand is still very high. Are you ready to SELL? Call TODAY for your obligation free Comprehensive Property Report.

4092 2232

159 BYRNES STREET, MAREEBA QLD 4880 Visit our website at www.crmareeba.com

The Express, Wednesday, May 11, 2022 PAGE 37

EXPRESSO

Wednesday 11th

Max 27o Min 21o Tide Times 0559 2.68 1220 1.08 1825 2.23

Thursday 12th

Friday 13th

Max 26o Min 21o

Max 27o Min 18o

Tide Times 0050 1.08 0659 2.82 1315 0.70 1937 2.68

Tide Times 0012 1.18 0628 2.77 1245 0.89 1900 2.46

. . . k a e r take a b

Saturday 14th

Sunday 15th

Max 28o Min 17o

Max 27o Min 18o

Tide Times 0210 0.98 0804 2.75 1422 0.42 2058 3.02

Tide Times 0129 1.01 0731 2.82 1347 0.53 2016 2.88

Monday 16th

Max 27o Min 17o

Tide Times 0253 1.02 0839 2.62 1500 0.38 2142 3.08

Tuesday 17th

Max 26o Min 16o

Tide Times 0339 1.12 0917 2.43 1540 0.43 2230 3.06

WORD SEARCH CROSSWORD Almaden Bismark Channels Charity Chillagoe Coffee Dimbulah Emu Creek Fundraise Granite Honour Koomboora Lapper Limestone Local

SUDOKU

Marble Mareeba Mutchilba Petford Race Remember Run Savannahlander Smelter Support Teams Tinaroo Tobacco Walsh Wheelbarrow

Enter digits from 1 to 9 into the blank spaces. Every row must contain one of each digit. So must every column, as must every 3x3 square.

16. Of the bright green colour of lush grass.

18. Next to or adjoining something else.

19. A foolish or stupid person.

21. Of or connected with the eyes or vision.

22. A rock or other material, having minute interstices through which liquid or air may pass.

DOWN

ACROSS 7. A place or angle where two sides or edges meet.

8. A state of great comfort or elegance, especially when involving great expense.

9. A Spanish sparkling wine made in the same way as champagne.

10. Relating to or denoting the system of non-metric weights and measures.

11. A shrill narrow-tubed war trumpet.

13. Feel or cause to feel anxious or troubled about actual or potential problems.

15. Situated more or less centrally in relation to (several other things).

1. A brown carbonated drink that is flavoured with an extract of cola nuts, or with a similar flavouring.

2. Not able to be authorized or sanctioned; unjustifiable.

3. Deliberately test someone’s patience to see how much one can get away with. (3 words) 4. Surface of which one end or side is at a higher level than another; a rising or falling surface.

5. Very unusual or remarkable.

6. A preliminary test of how a new system or product works.

12. An ineffectual or unsuccessful, weak/ falling behind person or thing.

14. Excessive bureaucracy or adherence to official rules and formalities.

17. Cautious or wary due to realistic suspicions.

20. Type of words used to identify any of a class of people, places, or things.

Weekly Horoscopes  

Aries

March 21 to April 20 Opportunities to make advancements through good business sense are evident.

Deception is evident around you.

Your lover will be annoyed with your participation. You may find yourself in a predicament with family members.

Puzzle solutions

Cinnamon Biscuits

INGREDIENTS

• 3 tablespoons white sugar • 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon • 1 cup dark brown sugar • 1/2 cup white sugar • 1 cup butter softened • 2 eggs • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract • 2 1/2 cups self raising flour • 3/4 teaspoon baking powder • 1/4 teaspoon salt





April 21 to May 21 You can enjoy entertainment if you join in and follow the crowd for once. Time to deal with government agencies, and matters of a private nature this week. You need to keep the peace and you will have to bend in order to do so. Go out with friends.

Leo

Cancer

Libra

Sept 24 to Oct 23

METHOD

1.

Preheat oven to 180° 2.

Combine the 3 tablespoons white sugar and the cinnamon in a small bowl and set aside.

3.

Cream the butter, dark brown sugar and white sugar on medium speed until pale.

4.

Add eggs and vanilla extract, mix until light and fluffy.

5.

Mix flour, baking powder and salt together in a separate bowl.

6.

Add to creamed sugar mixture, mixing on low speed until combined.

7.

Use a 1½ tablespoon scoop to form balls, then roll each ball into cinnamon-sugar to coat.

8.

Place cookies on ungreased cookie sheets and bake at 180° ~ 18 to 20 minutes depending on your oven.

9.

If your oven is notorious for uneven baking turn the baking sheet once half way through the baking process.

PAGE 38 The Express, Wednesday, May 11, 2022

Short trips will be educational.

Loss is evident if you don’t consider all the angles. Red tape could be impossible to clear up.

Real estate and joint financial ventures will be profitable.



Capricorn

Dec 22 to Jan 20

Be professional, and you will advance much more quickly. For now just do the best you can.

You can discuss your intentions and ideas with your colleagues or friends. Be tactful if you see flaws in someone else’s work.



Gemini

May 22 to June 21

Trips will be exciting. Abrupt changes concerning your professional position are evident.

Changes in your domestic scene are evident. Don’t let your emotions take over.

Virgo

July 23 to Aug 22

June 22 to July 22 Don’t get intimately involved with a coworker. You will be able to talk to your lover about future goals and perhaps make plans to take a vacation. Accomplishment is yours if you direct yourself accordingly. You are best to ask questions about issues that are confronting you.

THE perfect sweet treat to makefor the cooler days.

Taurus

Aug 23 to Sept 23

Dream a little this week. Be supportive in order to avoid confrontations. Take time to explain your intentions to loved ones.

Look into joining groups that can give you hands-on advice about business.

Make those phone calls and pay your bills. Opportunities to pamper yourself may unfold.

You’ll be dropping friends for no apparent reason. Opportunities for travel and socializing are evident.

Scorpio

Sagittarius

Nov 23 to Dec

Oct 24 to Nov 22 Social get-together could make you new friends. You have bent over backward trying to help them and now it’s time to let them stand on their own feet.

Look into physical activities that will help get rid of some of that tension you may be feeling.

Be aware of any deception on the part of those you deal with. You will get along well in social situations. You may have problems with children. You’re undergoing changes. You must refrain from overspending on entertainment.

Aquarius

Pisces

Jan 21 to Feb 19

You may be overreacting to a situation at hand. Risky ventures may turn in your favor. You may want to look into warm vacation spots. Networking will be a necessity.

Feb 20 to March 20 You can elaborate on your creative ideas and get involved in the arts. Your determination may make you a little overbearing when dealing with others.

Your compassion will be appreciated more than you can imagine.



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DIRECTORY

S S E EXPR

admin@theexpressnewspaper.com.au

Authorised Fujitsu Service Agent

P: 4092 3019 M: 0409 648 403 F: 4092 1629

www.donhall.com.au

r For all you rior xte interior & e g! cleanin

DAVE’S

CLEANING  All Brands  Prompt Service  We also install Aircons!

ir a n c oo l a Breath cle comes first! giene w he r e hy Lic. No. LO21176

COOL AIR

Servicing the Tablelands, Cooktown, Mossman, Dimbulah and everywhere in-between.

BLINDS

DOZOCO

BUILDING SERVICES

ROOFS: • Repairs • Re-Roofing • New Roofs • Awnings • Gu�ers • Pain�ng

DOUG ROLFE 0418 760 644

E: dozocobuildingservices@dodo.com.au W: www.dozocobuildingservices.com.au Facebook @dozocobuildingservices

FR EE

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T E S!

BUILDING: • Extensions • Pa�os • Carports • Renova�ons • Decks Call Doug anytime, • Fencing he’s a friendly bloke!

CABINET MAKER

Serving Mareeba & Tablelands Areas • Residential & Commercial • Kitchens • Vanities & Wardrobes • Offices & Retail

Come and see Daniel and the team at B&C Cabinets for all your cabinetry needs!

CHILDCARE

P: 4092 2671 • E: enquiries@bccabinets.com.au • QBCC 1209087

info@mareebakidscampus.com.au www.mareebakidscampus.com.au 3 CENTRES IN MAREEBA: Constance, Dunlop & Hastie Streets EARLY LEARNING • KINDERGARTEN OUTSIDE SCHOOL & VACATION CARE

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WORKSHOP CLEANING PRODUCTS

“GOTTA CALL COXENS”

LOCALLY OWNED

&

OPERATED

SEE OUR WEBSITE FOR DETAILS AND DOWNLOAD ONE OF OUR CATALOGUES AT WWW.COXEN.COM.AU Phone 07 4051 9355 | email cleaningsupplies@coxen.com.au | Our showroom is situated on Jubilee St, Cairns City, 50 Metres from Cairns Central

WE PROVIDE A FREE DELIVERY SERVICE SEE OUR WEBSITE FOR DETAILS AND DOWNLOAD ONE OF OUR CATALOGUES AT WWW.COXEN.COM.AU Phone 07 4051 9355 | email cleaningsupplies@coxen.com.au | Our showroom is situated on Jubilee Street, Cairns City, 50 Metres from Cairns Central

MAREEBA DENTURE SERVICE • Full and Partial Dentures • Relines and Repairs • Mouthguards Private Health Fund Rebates Apply Veteran Affairs Provider

Paul Johnstone

DENTAL TECHNICIAN DENTAL PROSTHETIST Registration No. 931417

4 Warren Street, Mareeba Q.4880 PH/FAX: 4092 2464 • MOB: 0402 809 556 • Email: choppers@qld.chariot.net.au

ELECTRICAL

All

SAFETY STORAGE SHOWERS & EYEWASHES

CAIRNS BUSINESS EST. 1983

Jay Vermeer 0400 803 334 | sales@barrierblinds.com.au | www.barrierblinds.com.au

d! antee Guar y ll u F Work

38 Years, we must be doing it right!

CUSTOM MADE SPILL KITS

Phone DAVID AVOLIO on 0409 924 006

GREAT QUALITY, AUSTRALIAN MADE BLINDS • Motorisation & Automation • Shutters • Aluminium Shutters • Roller Shutters • All Internal Blinds • All External Awnings

QBCC: 1109288

COXEN CLEANING SUPPLIES

CLEANING MACHINERY SALES & SERVICE

ABN: 61 788 170 092 LIC. NO: L012565 ARTIC LIC: AU21630 QBSA: 1220582

AIR-CONDITIONER

• Bond Cleans • Mould & Mildew Treatments • Pressure Cleaning, Roofs & Exteriors • Gutter Cleaning • Contract Cleaning

Phone: David or Julie 0428 993 205 | Email: tablelandcleaning@outlook.com

CLEANING SUPPLIES

Call Ross Malfitana Mobile: 0429 898 657

FULLY INSURED LOCAL FAMILY BUSINESS

DEMOLITIONS

R & C AIRCONDITIONING & REFRIGERATION

BUILDING

s e c i v r e S g n Cleani

ABN 80 179 825 363 QBSA 59712 ARC License AU24014 Electrical License No: 78958

• Airconditioning Installations • Cold Rooms • Fridge Seals • Gasing • Servicing and Maintenance • Authorised Artic Licence

Kat Child

TABLELAND

CLEANING

Shop 4, 276 Byrnes St, Mareeba PO Box 1034, Mareeba Q.4880

DENTAL

AIR CONDITIONING

4092 3464

O’Brien Electrical Mareeba (07) 4092 4146

Shed 3, 9 Wallace Drive, Mareeba | mareeba@electrical.obrien.com.au LIC. 55472 | ARC. AU31673

obrien.com.au/electrical/mareeba

Lic. No. 77513

ELECTRICAL SOLAR & BATTERIES AIR CONDITIONING

PHONE: 0408 764 850

DO YOU NEED A RELIABLE ELECTRICIAN? Do you need a RELIABLE Electrician who shows up on time, CLEANS up after himself, and completes your work CHEERFULLY, without charging the earth? Call TODAY!  Farms  Sheds  Shops  Houses  Maintenance  Renovations  Installations  New Homes  Repairs

Call DANIEL 0433 158 941

Lic No 69788

smartelec@y7mail.com

• Ravenshoe • Herberton • Millaa Millaa • Tarzali • Topaz • Malanda • Yungaburra • Atherton • Tolga • Walkamin • Mareeba

The Express, Wednesday, May 11, 2022 PAGE 39

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LICENCED ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR LICENCED CCTV INSTALLERS

SOLAR:

• OFF GRID • ON GRID • HYBRID MOBILE COVERAGE SOLUTIONS

Electrical Licence: 86387 Security Licence: 4162579

MAINTENANCE

ELECTRICAL

4092 3464

FLOORING

QBCC No. 1275266

PAINTER

M. HARTLEY PTY LTD TRADING AS

124 Mason Street, Mareeba  (07) 4092 2433

• Polished Concrete • Dust Controlled Grinding • Ceramic, Vinyl, Carpet Removal • Supply & Installation of Vinyls • Vinyl Planks & Carpets • Commercial & Domestic

Phone Darrin 0428 917 539 Email: daz.northernfloors@gmail.com Northern Floors Pty Ltd

• Hardware • Plumbing • Flat Pack Kitchens • Paint • Nursery • Giftware • Jaycar • Building Materials • White Goods

19 Wormboo Street raven@iig.com.au

IRRIGATION DESIGN AND SUPPLY

50 BYRNES STREET, MAREEBA • PHONE 4092 7788

IT

BURRATRONICS

PLUMBING

IRRIGATION

4097 6208 • Pumps Sales & Repairs • Filtration • Water Treatment • Water Tanks & Troughs • Pool Treatments • Solar Pumping Systems • Reinke Centre Pivot and Lateral Move Irrigators

BELL HARTLEY & CO. PAINTING CONTRACTORS

P: 4092 1176 M: 0418 184 147 E: markterri70@bigpond.com

PROFESSIONAL DOG BOARDING • On the Tablelands at Kuranda • Dedicated Staff • Great Facilities • Highest Quality Diet • Lots of Play Time in Big Yards • Long or Short Stays 131 Boyles Road, Kuranda | Phone: 40938239 www.kurandapetresort.com.au Email: graham@kurandapetresort.com.au

 RURAL  DOMESTIC  COMMERCIAL  ROOFING  PLUMBING  DRAINAGE

SALES, SERVICE & REPAIRS IN-STORE AND ON-SITE

www.burratronics.com.au Certain work defined as “building work” in the QBCC legislation may only be undertaken by licensed contractors, or if undertaken by unlicensed contractors, only to the value of $3,300.

However, work falling outside that definition may be performed by unlicensed contractors and is not subject to any value limit.

To check whether a Contractor holds a QBCC Licence visit: www.qbcc.qld.gov.au Or call the QBCC on 1300 272 272

PAGE 40 The Express, Wednesday, May 11, 2022

QBCC 1115490

Max & Jodie Turner

Shop 3, 203-215 Byrnes St, Mareeba P: 4092 7038

• Laptops, Tablets & Towers • Phone & Tablet Repairs • Custom Systems • Networking Solutions

PO BOX 1414, MAREEBA

100% Locally Owned & Operated!  DOMESTIC W: www.maximumpestman.com MAREEBA OFFICE:  COMMERCIAL P: 4092 1999 1 Vaughan Street ATHERTON OFFICE:  TERMITES M: 0418 150 759 30 Main Street Pre-Construction | Pre-Purchase Inspections

PET RESORT

HARDWARE

LOCALLY OWNED & OPERATED

RAVENSHOE HARDWARE

NO OBLIGATION FREE QUOTES!

MAXIMUM PEST MANAGEMENT PEST

ENGINEERING

LOCALLY All types of ork OWNED AND welding, lathe w OPERATED and milling.

• For all yard, home and office maintenance • Furniture restoration and repair • Welding and metalwork • Quality and guaranteed workmanship • Competitive rates with pensioner and VA discounts available

Leith Lewis 0409 343 699 | Email: leithlewis@bigpond.com

284 Byrnes St, Mareeba | 4092 1659 | sales@outbacksolar.net.au | www.outbacksolarandoutdoors.com.au

GENERAL ENGINEERING

Kat Child

4098 2774

TROY & JULIE BELL | 0419 746 006 belairplumbing@bigpond.com

Treatment Plant Servicing Septic Tank Pumping QBCC Lic. No. 79358

For all your PLUMBING, DRAINAGE and GASFITTING requirements throughout FAR NORTH QUEENSLAND Rural enquiries welcome!

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

DIRECTORY

S S E EXPR

4092 3464

admin@theexpressnewspaper.com.au

Kat Child

PLUMBING

For ONLY $40 per week this spot could be yours!

Call Kat today on 4092 3464 or email admin@theexpressnewspaper.com.au

POOL

“WE OFFER A COMPLETE ON SITE POOL SERVICE” POOL MAINTENANCE & POOL SHOP

LICENSED POOL SAFET Y INSPECTOR

P: 4092 1443 or 0413 013 297

Specialising in the local area, no job too big or too small... let us take care of your every move.

YARRABAH SERVICE TWICE WEEKLY

P Taxi&TrucksM- Tail-Lifters Carriers 4035 2034  Express Couriers Email: admin@pmcarriers.com 247 Hartley Street, Portsmith

CASH OR ACCOUNT CUSTOMERS WELCOME

Excellent Rates - Free Quotes!

Excellence Through Perseverance and Diligence Wally Amory - Mareeba Depot Manager

ry, Farm Machine rs, ile Ute Trays, Tra el, Structural Ste .

Rims and more

T QUALIT Y PAIN N PROTECTIO GUARANTEED

124 Mason Street, Mareeba  (07) 4092 2433

TREELOPPING

Phone: 0421 839 353 | mrboperations@exodas.com.au

SANDBLASTING & PAINTING

QBCC No. 1275266

CAIRNS • MOSSMAN • TABLELANDS DAILY

 Freight Distribution  Warehouse Storage

Jorge 4091 2601 or 0451 971 708 tablelandfurnitureremovals@gmail.com www.tablelandfurnitureremovals.com.au

SAND BLASTING & PAINTING

REMOVALISTS

71 BYRNES ST, MAREEBA

ALL POOL SUPPLIES INCLUDING FREE WATER TESTING & EXPERT ADVICE

TRANSPORT

price includes an online listing on www.theexpressbusiness. com.au

PROFESSIONAL TREE SERVICE SERVICING NORTH QUEENSLAND P: 4095 4595 | E: aataylorstreelopping@outlook.com

TABLELANDS TREELOPPING • Treelopping • Bobcat Hire • Wood Chipping • Pensioner Discounts • Stump Grinding • Fully Insured

FREE QUOTES!

Call Jon Lambert | P: 4091 5008 | M: 0407 575 916 SLASHING/ MULCHING

• Slashing and Mulching • Orchard / Tree Trimming • Earthworks • Machinery Haulage • Accident Towing / Tilt Tray Hire CONTACT DETAILS: Blake Daniel 0439 988 227 Email: atsamfnq@hotmail.com

TOWN PLANNING

As a local born and bred, I am invested in the success of the community and how it is developed. Enquire today for a free consultation.

• Pre-purchase property search reports / due diligence - Understand your future or current property rights • Specialise in Development Approvals • Reconfiguring a Lot / Subdivisions • Material Change of Use

P: 0411 344 110 | E: ramon@uitownplan.com.au | W: www.uitownplan.com.au www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

• Tree Removal • Wood Chipping • Stump Grinding • Firewood Lukas Portelli 0427 189 227 tablelandstreeworks@gmail.com

• TREE MAINTENANCE & REMOVAL • HEDGE TRIMMING & SHAPING • GREEN WASTE REMOVAL & WOODCHIPPING 0428 711 278 mareebatrees@gmail.com 118 Constance St, Mareeba Q.4880

The Express, Wednesday, May 11, 2022 PAGE 41

CLASSIFIEDS

S S E R EXP

4092 3464

admin@theexpressnewspaper.com.au

Kat Child

Classified Deadline: 4pm every Friday ChurCh NotiCe

iN memoriam

PRESBYTERIANS meet in Mareeba for worship each Sunday 10am, QCWA Hall, Wilkes Street (behind Meals on Wheels) ALL WELCOME!

Graeme Charles DUNGAVELL “Dunnie” 25-05-66 - 16-05-10 In loving memory of our much loved son, brother, brother-in-law and uncle.

A special smile, a special face.

A special person, we can’t replace.

Always remembered from Charlie, Lennie, Vicki, Jason, Abbi and Daina.

aNNiversary 60th Wedding Anniversary ~~ 12th May 1952 ~~

FuNeral NotiCe SILIPRANDI, Anna Maria

Late of Atherton. Passed away peacefully at Carinya on the 29th of April, 2022. Aged 86 years.

Beloved Wife of Romeo (Dec.). Dearly loved Mother, Mother-in-Law, Grandmother and Great Grandmother of Marisa, Claudia, Aurora, Manuel and their families.

Relatives and friends of Anna are respectfully invited to attend her funeral which is appointed to move from Mountain View Chapel, Guilfoyle’s Tableland Crematorium, 3 Nasser Road, Atherton on THURSDAY 12th May, 2022 after a service commencing at 2:00pm for interment in the Atherton cemetery.

Guilfoyle Funeral Services

Harvey and Trish Lovewell

Chapels, Crematorium & Memorial Gardens

Atherton: 4091 2147 Mareeba: 4092 1013 www.guilfoylefunerals.com.au

27.01.56 - 12.05.21

Your ever devoted other half, Harvey.

iN memoriam

The Family of Angelo Russo

I wish to extend my heartfelt thanks to my wonderful family and friends who have been by my side and supported me through the sad loss of my loving husband of 59 years.

Also for everyone who attended the funeral, sent flowers, cards, phone calls, text messages, visited and brought food.

Sincere thanks also to the caring staff and Dr. Harnishferger for looking after him while a resident at the Mareeba Garden Settlement.

Please accept this as personal thanks from my family as well.

Local Family Owned & “Entrusted for over 70 years”

Karen Braes My Darling Trish, We met at primary school but it took another 10 years before you said yes.

We have been there for each other and love has conquered all obstacles, and it is love that has kept and will keep us together even longer. Here’s to looking forward to many more years together.

With thaNks

Profoundly missed and deeply loved.

WaNted

PersoNal

WANTED TO BUY

Aboriginal Man, 64, seeking a

Janice Vanita BOYLE Late of Chillagoe. Passed away peacefully on Sunday the 1st of May, 2022. Aged 68 years.

We do our best on the road we travel now, without you.

We try to live and make you proud, here, now, without you.

When our hearts break, and when they soar, both are equally hard, without you.

Our souls connected for all eternity, and we know we are, never really, without you.

Your devoted and loving family, held together with your love.

With and without you. xxxooo

Dearly loved Wife of Ross (dec.). Cherished Mother, Mother-in-Law, Grandma and Great Grandma to Valeeta, Ross, Fiona, Jodi, Megan and their families.

Family and friends are warmly invited to attend Janice’s funeral service to be held at the Mareeba Anglican Church on Friday 20th May, 2022 commencing at 10:00am.

At the conclusion of the service, the cortege will then proceed to the Mareeba Cemetery for interment.

LANDCRUISER 100

Factory turbo wagon GXL, 2003 to 2006 in VGC, full service history, 5 speed auto, 1-2 owner vehicle, under 250,000 klms, private cash buyer.

Contact Terry 0437 732 228

LADY FOR FRIENDSHIP Contact Yupala on 0456 155 876

For sale SHIPPING CONTAINERS

Zelmira (Elvira) Merletti

Karen Braes

26/06/26 – 12/05/14 Mamma, I still see your face before me, Your voice I long to hear.

I miss and love you dearly, God knows I wish you were here.

Tears fall freely from my eyes, Like a river filled with grief.

My only comfort is that from pain, You have found relief.

27/01/1956 - 12/05/2021

Remembering our dear friend Karen.

So sadly missed.

Love from the Pictionettes.

Missing you always, Angela, Lorenza, Isabella (Dec.), Pia Margaret and Families.

DAVEY JONES

IN loving memory of those who are forever in our hearts.

Call the Express to place an advert by 4pm Friday.

NEED some help wording your ad? Call The Express today and Kat can help you get your message across! 4092 3464 or email admin@ theexpressnewspaper. com.au

FuNeral DEBBIE BOARDMAN

Funeral Celebrant Final farewells with respect.

Phone 0410 328 357

FuNeral NotiCe

07.04.1936 12.05.2019

BUYING PNG & ABORIGINAL COLLECTABLES SWORDS, SHIELDS BOOMERANGS, DRUMS STONE AXES & CLUBS SPEAR THROWERS ETC. 0421 830 923

1300 781 084

Tony Kuen LEUNG Late of Millaa Millaa, formerly of Cow Bay. Passed away unexpectedly surrounded by love on the 26th of April, 2022. Aged 74 years.

Much loved Husband of Kate. Devoted Father and Father-in-Law of Tonya & Crawford.

Grandfather of Perry & Ari. Beloved Brother of Shun Yi, Sally, Robert (Rover), Tommy and David & their wives.

Tony cherished the love of his extended family of nephews & nieces, and valued the many friends and friendships, enriching his life’s journey.

As per Tony’s wishes, a private cremation service will be held.

SELL it today! Call Kat on 4092 3464.

Sales, Hire & Transport.

Self-Pack Removals Australia Wide.

MODIFICATIONS

P: 4091 7242 www.sticklizard.com.au

FOR sale 3 x 6 Month old Red Poley Draughtmaster Bulls $1600 each.

JOHN 0437 726 630

CoNgratulatioNs

It’s a girl!

1300 781 084

PO GILLESPIE, Luke Graham Our special memories of you, Will always bring a smile.

If only we could have you back, For just a little while.

Then we could sit and talk again, Just like we used to do.

You always meant so much to us, And you always will.

David Dad Pop

Passed away peacefully. Aged 40 years.

Dearly loved Son, Brother, Father, Uncle, Grandson and Mate of Warren and Val, Nikole and Les, Lilyanna, Piipa and Aaron.

Relatives and friends of Luke are respectfully invited to attend his funeral which is to be held graveside at Atherton Cemetery on Friday the 13th of May, 2022 commencing at 2.00pm.

Love you always Isabel, Ashley, Julie, Jason, Kelly, Declan, Ashton, Cody, Jaida, Kym, Barry, Shanade, Jaime, Stevie, Kasey, Amanda, Brendan, Charlie, Evie and Melody.

PAGE 42 The Express, Wednesday, May 11, 2022

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

WeddiNg

Car removal

MARRIAGE Celebrant - Cheryl Tonkin. T/lands - Rural - Remote. Ph 0407 670 954.

FREE CAR REMOVAL

ADVERTISING works. email admin@ theexpressnewspaper. com.au

Tilt Tray Service.

Anywhere on the Tablelands.

0473 178 905

Congratulations!

Luke and Natasha Wainwright on the arrival of your beautiful baby girl, Lulu Capri.

The best Mother’s Day gift you’ll ever receive.

All our love, your Express Family. xxxx www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

CLASSIFIEDS PosiTion VacanT

PuBlic noTice

Amaroo Medical MAREEBA

PRACTICE NURSE

SUPPORT COORDINATOR Disability Matters Support Coordination team has built an amazing reputation and is growing. To keep up with demand a position exists for a motivated and dedicated individual who can apply their strong communication skills and depth of knowledge and experience in the disability sector, to provide our clients with innovative, creative supports and help them live a life of possibilities.

Duties and responsibilities: • Assist NDIS participants in the support coordination and implementation of all supports in their funded plan and also informal, mainstream and community supports • Manage clients using a responsive, supportive and innovative approach • Ensure services offered are tailored to meet individual requirements with the aim of building the client’s capacity • Support participants in preparing for NDIS plan reviews to ensure their plan accurately conveys their goals and aspirations as they develop and grow • Develop and maintain strong professional relationships with key external NDIS providers and other relevant external stakeholders • Contribute proactively to a dynamic, adaptable work team Your skills and knowledge: • Qualifications in social work, psychology, human services, NDIS or related discipline • Demonstrated knowledge and skills in case management, care coordination and/or complex case coordination • Knowledge of practice and guidelines as they relate to the NDIS and Support Coordination or ability to acquire easily • Exceptional communication skills • Initiative, strong attention to detail and problem-solving skills • Ability to analyse problems and provide meaningful solutions Key facts about the position: • The position may be considered on either a part time or full time permanent basis • Flexible hours and family friendly workplace • NFP Salary packing benefits

Applicants should contact Disability Matters on 07 4235 7200 or email: info@disabilitymatters.org.au for a recruitment package Closing date is: 9:00am, Monday 30 May, 2022.

SMALL ENGINE MECHANIC

Casali’s is focused on the future and we’re looking for a new Small Engine Mechanic.

Are the following values important to you?

• Prosperous • Staff • Customers • Integrity • Innovative Are you committed to providing outstanding service with straight up solutions?

Do you have a Small Engine Mechanic qualification, at least 2 years relevant work experience and a manual licence?

If this resonates with you, please send an email to: bernice@casalis.com.au Telling us what our values mean to you, details of your qualifications and the answer to this question: What is the difference between a 2 stroke & 4 stroke engine?

Hours are Monday - Friday 38 Hours/Week.

Above award wages apply with salary starting at $53,900/pa. Successful applications can negotiate salary during interview process.

Applications close 24th May, 2022.

YOUR LOCAL CLASSIFIEDS GOT a position vacant you need to fill? Email Kat at your friendly locally owned Newspaper: a d m i n @ t h e e x p r e s s n e w s p a p e r. c o m . a u .

Classie deadline is 4pm every Friday.

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

Casual Registered Nurse for 3-4 days/week and holiday relief.

Duties include clinical support, chronic disease management, wound dressing & immunisation.

All applicants must be competent in computer use and previous experience in a medical practice is desirable.

For an application package: Phone 4092 5900 or email: kay@amaroomedical.com.au Applications close: 5.00pm, Friday 14th May, 2022.

LIVE ONLINE AUCTION

WEDNESDAY 1 JUNE - 9AM START

On Instructions from Mr Tony Jonsson and Mike McCann of Grant Thornton as Liquidators of BPB Mareeba Pty Ltd (In Liquidation) Formerly T/As Homefab Steel Truss & Frame

STEEL TRUSS AND FRAME MANUFACTURING BUSINESS ASSETS

PLANT: 2019 FRAMECAD F450iT 1.6mm Gauge Roll-Forming Machine & Decoiler, 2019 FRAMECAD FB150i Dual Profile Roof/Ceiling Batten Roll-Forming Machine & Decoiler, Toyota 02-FD30 & 72-8FD25 Forklifts, Fork Slippers, Jib Crane, Pallet Hook & Man Cage, Metal Working Tools incl. DMP 100T Press, Geka Hydracrop 55/S, Holemaker Pro 35 & Jancy Magnetic Base Drills, Drill Press, Makita LC1230 Cold Metal Saw, Kemppi X3 & Cigweld 350 MIG Welders, Esab CutSkil 45 Plasma Cutter, Far Riveters, Puma 3PH Compressor, Air Hose Reels, 240V, 18V & Air Tools incl. Makita, Dewalt, Hilti & Ryobi, Steel Racks, Setout Stand Frames, Lifting Equipment, Benches, Trolleys, ladders, Site Boxes, Adjustable Jack Stands, Steel Racks. NEW STOCK: incl. 23+ Truecore Steel Slit Coils, Galvanised RHS Lengths, C&Z Section Purlins, Channel, Angle, Flat, Rod, Iron Sheeting, Flange Bolt Kits, Steel Screws, PVC Pipe & Fittings. OFFICE EQUIPMENT: incl. Furniture, Epson EB695Wi HD Projector, IP Phone System, TV, Desktop and Laptop Computers, Servers, IT Equipment and Security Camera System.

Note: An 11% Buyers Premium will be added to the knockdown price of each lot sold. This is a GST Inclusive Sale.

All lots are Sold In Situ VIEWING TUESDAY 31 MAY AT 9AM-4PM AT 58 CHEWKO ROAD MAREEBA QLD 4880 PLEASE NOTE: NO AUCTION DAY SITE ACCESS, LIVE ON LINE ONLY Visit our Website to Create Your Account for Online Bidding & Subscribe for our Flyer & Catalogue - www.quaidauctioneers.com.au

AU C T I O N E E R S & VA LU E R S

401 Sheridan Street, Cairns North - Phone 4051 3300

SALES PERSON / TECHNICIAN

Working with variable speed / frequency drives, electric motors and control systems.

This dynamic role offers lots of variety while also making it possible to become an expert in the field.

Ideally you would be an experienced electrician and looking to specialise in this busy and rewarding field.

For further details call us on 0419 022 932 Or Email: office@drivesolutions.com.au Car, Laptop and Phone Provided.

­

WANTED CLEANERS Looking for a couple to take over cleaning run.

For details please phone 0417 706 932

garage sale Garage Sale SATURDAY 14TH MAY 27 Neal Street, Atherton From 6:30am GOT a Position Vacant? Call Kat at your friendly locally owned Newspaper on 4092 3464.

work wanTed CARER Qualified, experienced, mature woman seeing a livein position. MondayFriday only, Mareeba or Cooktown. Please email vitoula08@ tutanota.com and include phone number.

ADVERTISE your job today! Email admin@ theexpressnewspaper. com.au for a quote.

SELL it today! Call Kat on 4092 3464.

PROPOSAL TO UPGRADE AN EXISTING ROOFTOP MOBILE PHONE TELECOMMUNICATION FACILITY LOCATED AT 53 YAPPAR STREET KARUMBA QLD 4891 ON LAND DESCRIBED AS LOT 8 ON PLAN K36412. RFNSA NO: 4891001, TELSTRA SITE ID: KARUMBA - KRUB - 56851

1. Removal of two (2) existing panel antennas at 34.80m and removal of two (2) existing panel antennas at 38.00m.

2. Installation of three (3) new panel antennas (4G) at 33.00m and Installation of six (6) new panel antennas (4G) at 33.50m 3. The upgrade will include all ancillary works such as: combiners, diplexers, mounts, cable trays, feeders, cables. The internal and auxiliary works such as installation and connecting the new electronic equipment will be placed in the existing Telstra equipment shelter.

4. Telstra regards the proposed installations as a Low-impact Facility under Part 1, Item 4 and 5 of the Telecommunications (Low-impact Facilities) Determination 2018 (“The Determination”) based on the description above.

5. In accordance with Section 7 of C564:2020 Mobile Phone Base Station Deployment Code, we invite you to provide feedback about the proposal. Further information and/or comments should be directed to: Service Stream on behalf of Telstra, via phone at (07) 3068 6973, email to Telstra.Submissions@servicestream.com.au via post to PO Box 510 Lutwyche, QLD 4030 or at www.rfnsa.com.au, RFNSA No. 4891001, by 5pm 24th of May 2022.

Proposed Development Make a submission from: 12 May to 02 June, 2022 Telecommunications Facility (Max. Height 26.4m) Where: 10 Walker Street, Cooktown On: Lot 101 C1793 Approval Sought: Development Permit for a Material Change of Use Application Ref: DA/4474 You may obtain a copy of the application and make a submission to:

Classified deadlines

4pm Friday prior to the next week’s publication

GOT a position vacant you need to fill? Email Kat at your friendly locally owned Newspaper: a d m i n @ theexpressnewspaper. c o m . a u .

Classifieds deadline is 4pm every Friday.

ADVERTISE TODAY! Ph 4092 3464.

IMPORTANT NOTICE MEDICAL PRACTICE CLOSURE Dear Patients The Atherton Family Medical Centre will be closed permanently from the 30th June, 2022 due to Dr Ruscoe’s retirement.

For enquires regarding your medical records please call 4091 1444

Mowing/ HoMe MainTenance

Cook Shire Council PO Box 3, Cooktown QLD. 4895 mail@cook.qld.gov.au (07) 4082 0500 www.cook.qld.gov.au Public notification requirements are in accordance with the Planning Act 2016.

Training For renT

First Aid Courses

Port Douglas & Malanda Every 2nd Thursday CPR, First Aid, Advanced Resuscitation & LVR Bookings can be made through our website: www.firstaidtrainingcairns.com.au Call 0412 046 588 (RTO 45723)

Make your ad stand out froM the rest...

add CoLour!!

SERVICED OFFICES FOR RENT 1 Jack Street, Atherton P: 0414 700 081 ADVERTISE - admin@ theexpressnewspaper. com.au.

BuTcHer MOBILE farm butcher.

Ph John Hales 0409 638 882.

BILL Black Mobile Butcher. Hang up to 7 days. 0408 922 812.

LOCAL Mobile Farm Butcher - will travel. Ph Bryan 0407 691 752.

The Express, Wednesday, May 11, 2022 PAGE 43

SPORT

Mareeba gymnast takes on nationals

Chillagoe rodeo returns with a bang

BY ELLIE FINK

REPRESENTING Queensland as one of the youngest gymnasts on the team, Mareeba’s Frank Tulloch will be making his way to the Gold Coast on 14 May to compete in Australian Gymnastics Championships.

After dominating the floor mats at State Finals last month, the 16-year-old is ready to defend his title once again as he joins the Queensland Men’s Artistic Gymnastics Level 8 Open Team.

Franks says he is keen to compete against some of the most talented gymnasts in the country and hopes he can do his country town gym proud.

“It’s definitely daunting, but it gives me something to aim for as I try condition myself to the same standards as the much older competitors,” he said.

“I’ve been focussing on all my routines and trying to keep them as clean as possible, so I get less deductions.

“I just need to remember to point my toes and straighten my legs and keep repeating my routines over and over again.”

In preparation for the big event, Frank trains 11 hours a week, which is significantly less than his fellow competitors due to his schooling commitments,

Frank Tulloch will be heading down to the Gold Coast on the 14 May to compete in the Australian Gymnastics Championship, being one of the youngest competitors on the Queensland Team.

but his coach Kelly Tulloch believes regardless he will be able to catch up to the older competitors.

“We would like to wish Frank all the best at the Australian Gymnastics Championships, and we would like him to enjoy the experience and reap the reward of the hard work and dedication from his training,” Kelly said.

Wet weather for Millaa Millaa golf TABLELANDS weather over the weekend was not a deterrent for eight teams of dedicated golfers at the Millaa Millaa Golf Club who all looked to get their share of the Malanda Meats goodies on offer.

There were some good nett scores turned in, despite the trying conditions, however the field was blitzed by Kelvin Groves and Ross Ellen who finished up seven shots clear with 143 nett.

Bob Collyer and Alan (Happy) Hapgood were seven further back in second place with

151 nett, taking third was “The Silver Fox” Don McHardie and partner Gary Soper. Only one team finished with more than 160 nett.

The team of Gary Loberwein and Trevor Warrener were nearest the pin on 1/10 with Bob Collyer and Alan (Happy) Hapgood winning on the 5/14th green.

Next week, golfers will pick their own team for a 4BBB Stableford sponsored by the Malanda Bakery.

Golfing champions crowned THE Atherton Golf Club was full of up-and-coming golf stars over the weekend as Atherton Junior Golf hosted the combined Far North Queensland and Curlew Junior Golf Open.

Nearly 40 young golfers made their way from across the far north to compete in the two-day event across five different divisions, some playing a full 18-hole course while others played a sixhole modified course.

The final round of the open was hotly contested by some of the best junior golfers the region has to offer including Saxonn Capilos, Couper Smith, Liam Calvert, Caine Cockle, Kayla Moss, and Angel Pizzichemi.

However, it was Capilos and Moss from Cairns Junior Golf who were crowned the overall Far North Queensland and Curlew Junior Open Champions.

The main event, the open bull ride. Photos by Crystalyn Jones Photography.

IT was non-stop action in Chillagoe over the weekend as hundreds of cowboys and cowgirls flocked to the small town for their annual rodeo.

The Chillagoe Rodeo has made a comeback this year after being temporarily postponed in 2020-21. The Chillagoe Roundup took its place last year and raised the necessary funds needed for this year’s rodeo.

The rodeo has now returned in full force as hundreds of people gathered at Chillagoe’s rodeo grounds for some good old-fashioned rodeo fun.

Rodeo secretary Lee Gordan was overjoyed with the turnout and the conduct of everyone who attended.

“We had such a fantastic weekend, we had to do an alcohol pick up Saturday morning and we still ran out of rum at the end of the night,” she said. “Everyone was amazing and it was a very good crowd.”

Rider Luke Smith was centre stage during over the weekend as he competed with some of the toughest bull riders and some of the rankest bulls during the open bull ride. He managed to climb out on top and win the open bull ride.

The novice bull ride title went to Leith Malone while the open saddle bronc was secured by Raymond Brown.

Barrel racing was a highly competitive event however Gabby Cahill manoeuvred her way to a first-place position in the ladies’ barrel racing.

Juvenile Barrel Race competitor Alicia Holloway.

Robbie White competing in the rope and tie event.

Open Saddle Bronc winner Raymond Brown.

2 LOCATIONS IN ATHERTON 54 Main Street Phone: 4091 1006

Volunteers Sought - Interested persons please visit:

crimestoppersqld.com.au/volunteer

PAGE 44 The Express, Wednesday, May 11, 2022

Shop 14, Atherton Square, Cook Street Phone: 4091 3919

FINE JEWELLERY, WATCHES & GIFTWARE! ALL JEWELLERY, WATCH & CLOCK REPAIRS www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

SPORT

Nudgee back to defend race glory

BY ELLIE FINK TRAVELLING all the way from Brisbane to compete in the Great Wheelbarrow Race, Nudgee College is ready to reclaim the number one spot this year and make their name known in region once again.

In their last race in 2019, the team took out the gold, dominating the 140km race in only 6 hours, 51 minutes and 12 seconds – four hours quicker than the second-place team SES Psycho Ducks.

Known for their competitive nature and winning almost every year in the school’s category, the Nudgee boys are ready to do it all again with the help of their mentor, Duggan House Dean, Karim Sedour.

“We became involved in 2016 as a way to build and continue relationships with the many North Queensland families who trust us with the care and education of their boys,” Mr Sedour said.

“The original idea and push came from John and Helen Donovan. They believed with great passion that the nature of the event would suit the Nudgee boys' love of a hard challenge.

“Their older boys Tom and Jack were integral to our efforts in previous years. This year their son Ned, who is in Year 11, will get his chance to shine.”

Although the boys aren’t able to train with a wheelbarrow due to class schedules, their time training in rugby league has helped them master speed, agility and the art of teamwork.

However, Nudgee’s highly competitive and determined nature as a team has helped them in past races as they tackle the unique race regardless.

“The Nudgee team does not train in the lead up to the competition as we cannot miss class time and most boys are heavily involved in other activities such as football or pre-season rugby training,” Mr Sedour said.

“The reality is that most boys are already pretty

St Joseph’s Nudgee College Great Wheelbarrow Race team for 2022 (Front to back L-R) Vladimir Savovski (Staff) Samson Naawi, Jack McBribe, Angus Wishart, Lawson Denniss, Ben Mills, Luke Power, Alex Touas Absent: Brent Mitchell (Staff) Angus Williams, Cooper Luce.

fit from their other sports and once they master the wheelbarrow changeovers at speed they tend to do pretty well.”

Nudgee student and competitor Luke Power says he is ready to go, training up every day to make sure he is in perfect shape for the day.

“For training, I am currently doing 5km of running every day as well going to the gym five times a week,” he said.

“The race I am about to race is my first ever, but St Joseph's Nudgee College has been competing in the Great Wheelbarrow Race for many years and we are looking forward to getting back into it.

“My message to my team and other competitors is to Slip, Slop, Slap, and have fun!”

Day one of the 140km race will take off from 20 May in Mareeba with a street parade through Byrnes Street where spectators can cheer on their favourite teams.

Skiers skim past the competition BAREFOOT water skiers have returned to Lake Tinaroo’s waters after a highly successful circuit at both the state and national barefoot water-skiing titles, with many members returning as state champions, one a national champion.

Members of the Northern Region Barefoot Waterski Club spent time in Barcaldine Queensland earlier in February for states, while nationals were held in Mulwala NSW towards the end of March.

The club competed in a range of age groups from sub-junior boys to super masters men, achieving multiple first place victories and some members returning as state and national champions.

Club president and world number one senior woman skier, Katina Davies, was one of the members who returned from the competitions a state champion and the only one to claim a national champion title.

“Most members had been training regularly on the water, usually at 6am, several times a week in the lead up to the event and competing in

Northern Region Barefoot Waterski Club members Mark Molford, Katina Davis, Lindsie Jack, Geoff Riesen (below) and Justin Molford with their numerous medals and accolades after the state and national barefoot water skiing titles held recently.

club events for practice,” she said.

“We are very proud of the performances and effort put in by all our club members.”

Young superstar skier Lindsie Jack competed in the junior girls division, winning the tricks and slalom events, gaining an overall win and becoming a state champion.

Mark Molford and Geoff Riesen both achieved overall wins and became state champions in the sub-junior boys and super masters men divisions respectively.

During nationals, Jack and

Molford both became second place national champion and secured second overall positions.

Davies and Riesen will be booking their flights for America as they travel to Texas in September to compete in the Worlds Masters Titles while Jack is training to complete in the Open and Junior Worlds Title in March 2023.

The club and its members will continue to train hard in the early mornings before the sun rises in preparation for upcoming club events, state, national and world titles.

Small town... Big heart!

­

PAGE 45 The Express, Wednesday, May 11, 2022

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SPORT

Mareeba set for never before seen race day

BY RHYS THOMAS MAREEBA is set to witness a never before seen race day as the Mareeba Turf Club presents their new 150 Race Day, an exclusive and ambitious event replicating some of the country’s most prestigious races.

The day was coined 150 Race Day after other club’s traditions of 100 Race Days featuring corporate marques, private bookmakers, private bars and even exclusive interviews with jockeys and trainers.

Kicking off this Saturday

Danii’s Ruler pictured with stable foreman Kellie Buckingham is trained by Alex Malliff who will be racing in the Battle of the Bush qualifier on Saturday.

from 11am, the day will also see a Battle of the Bush qualifier and Fashions from Afar competition.

Mareeba Turf Club president Alex Malliff is excited to bring the unique and special race day to the grounds at Mareeba for the first time.

“We are trying to think outside the square as a club so we are going to try and put on something that Mareeba has not really ever had before – a glamour day at the races,” he said.

“The corporate marquee, the fine wines, the nice race day attire, something a little bit special that the racegoers in the country don’t really get to be a part of.”

St Stephen’s Catholic College will be helping out on the day in the corporate marquees serving food provided by Catering with Class.

“It also coincides with our Battle of the Bush qualifying heat, so we have added $10,000 worth of prize money as a club to attract better horses,” Mr Malliff said.

The Battle of the Bush is an annual racing competition that travels to regional and rural racing clubs across Queensland in 16 qualifying rounds, this year the final culminates at Tattersall’s Tiara Raceday at Eagle Farm in June.

Mareeba’s heat will feature a 1123m open plate race and is

Prue Vaughn and Rhonda Stevens are excited for the upcoming 150 Race Day hosted at the Mareeba Turf Club.

the sixth qualifying round set for this year’s competition.

If your horse is registered with the Queensland Thoroughbred Incentive Scheme, there is a chance to win some major prize money.

“If you have got a registered horse it is up to $25,000 worth of prize money, first place prize money I think we worked it out to be around $16,000 if you’re not registered,” Mr Malliff said.

“You can still come and

race if you do not have a registered horse.”

There will be just as much action off the track this year with the 150 Race Day also playing host to the Fashions from Afar competition which

accompanies this year’s Battle of the Bush tour.

Gates open at 11am this Saturday with a $15 general entry fee. For more info, visit the club’s Facebook page.

Montagner sprints to semis at Stawell

Dimbulah local Kayla Montagner has smashed goals at the Stawell Gift this year, making herself and her community proud.

BY ELLIE FINK

­

PAGE 46 The Express, Wednesday, May 11, 2022

TAKING on the richest footrace in the country, 24-year-old Kayla Montagner has smashed personal bests and made her name known in the semifinals for the 70m and 120m gift at the Stawell Gift.

Being an avid runner since high school, the Dimbulah girl’s passion for running has taken her to the event in Victoria twice before.

With that experience and knowledge behind her, she proudly placed 2nd in the 120m semi-final this year, a testimony to her hard work and dedication training up for the occasion.

“There was definitely a lot of nerves, excitement and determination because these events are always filled with many talented athletes from all over Australia and sometimes other countries so you can't get complacent,” she said.

“But I was intent on making my mark and knew I had a chance to at least make the semi-

finals and maybe even a final, so I went out there with everything I had.

“Now that it's over, I am a little bit more relaxed but also eager for what's to come next year.”

Although she just missed her chance of making it to the final gift, Montagner smashed her personal best in 70m with a time of 8.520 sec and 120m with a time of 13.873 sec.

Now Montagner is back home and preparing for her next big race in the Oceania Area Athletics Championships to be held in June in Mackay representing Regional Australia.

“After that, I'll be doing local competitions as the season for the Far North quietens down,” she said.

“Another plan I'm considering is running in a few more gift races before Stawell in preparation.

“I will most definitely be returning to Stawell if everything goes according to plan and fingers crossed that I would improve from this year and make the finals.”

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SPORT Roosters claim first derby clash THE Atherton Roosters have emerged victorious 32-12 in their face off against town rivals the Mareeba Gladiators in the first round of the Tablelands Cup on Saturday night at Davies Park.

Both teams were eagerly looking forward to the weekend’s match-up with the Roosters walking onto Gladiators territory fully stocked while the hosts were still riddled with injuries.

Atherton broke the silence first as Jermaine Pedro crossed the line and started a five-try frenzy as the Roosters kept piling on the points.

The Gladiators struck back twice with Litani Pakalani and Seone Patolo however their efforts did little to stem the steady tide of Roosters jerseys crossing the line.

Gladiators coach Chris Sheppard was proud of the efforts of his players in the face of a tough opponent.

“We started really well and stuck to the task, the effort was outstanding but we lacked some polish when we needed it,” he said.

“We had more injuries, finishing the game with no one left on the bench and people playing out of position but

Even split for Eagles THE Atherton Eagles had an even split of results over the weekend as some junior teams played locally and the highest grade travelled to Cairns to face off against the division benchmarks.

In the U8/9 Miniroos the Atherton Eagles won against Malanda Wasps 3-0.

The team played well together, passing and learning to hold their positions and watching the flow of the game, Nicholas’s boot was on fire while Savannah, Finn and Henry all scored goals.

Ava's defensive game was amazing, Hudson did awesome in the mid-field and Ethan had nerves of steel whilst goalie.

The U12’s went down in their first game in Cairns against Redlynch Strikers but created lots of goal scoring op-

portunities, new players had a great start and best on team went to the backs who had lots of work.

The U14’s won against Southside Comets 9-1 and kicked off to a great start with a cracking volley goal from Cherinesha off Will’s corner.

Will went on to score seven goals and Miren also scored one, best performance goes to the back line with the Comets only having two shots on goal.

The U15/16’s lost against Saints 0-7, it was a hard game for the newcomers, especially with a few critical players out due to other commitments, sickness or injury.

With the Saints being the benchmark squad for Division 1, the Eagles gave them space and time on the ball, which the Saints capitalised on.

Bulls weekend win over Dolphins Roosters rising star Tom Cuda on the fly at Mareeba on Saturday

every one of the them had a crack.

“I’d like to single out Caleb Dally, Rob Pedersen and Keripo Gutchen-Gela for

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Now the Roosters hope to continue their dominant form as they play the Kangaroos at

home at Mungalli Creek Dairy Stadium.

The Gladiators will remain home as Cairns Brothers make the trip up the hill.

THE Mareeba Bulls Premier Men’s put down the Stratford Dolphins in a 2-0 win over the weekend at home.

The Bulls capitalised early scoring two goals which they then held for the remainder of the match.

The Dolphins were reinvigorated after half-time, and it took a mighty defensive effort by the Bulls to stave them off.

Chances to increase the score were missed by the Bulls in the second half, however they held onto their 2-0 win until fulltime.

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