The Express Newspaper 12th April 2023

Be a seed saver

BY RHYS THOMAS

FOR more than a decade, the Mareeba Seed Savers and Gardening Group has procured and dispensed a wide range of different seeds from all over the world and members are swinging open their garden fences and inviting passionate gardeners to get involved.

The group was initially founded by Ulla Melchiorsen and Peder Rasmussen in 2009 and since then, close to 600 people have benefited from the group.

People can join the group either through a $10 single or $15 family membership which then gives them free access to the expansive seedbank. Non-members can access the bank for a gold coin donation.

The seed bank holds roughly 350 different seeds and some have come from over-

seas as many migrants to the area would have seeds from their home countries and have contributed to the bank.

Mareeba Seed Savers and Gardening Group member Maria Gillies said the group’s main focus is saving seeds but many members share their gardening experience and expertise with one another.

“We are trying to assist people with education on the importance of saving seeds and primarily we like the seeds to be organically grown and open pollenated, which basically means grown in someone’s garden without any chemicals,” she said.

Some of the more outlandish seeds in the bank are Old Womens Gossip Kale, Purple Climbing Bean, Superior Tree Lettuce, Jicama (edible tuberous root), Tommy Toe Yellow Tomato, Russian Giant Cucumber and Job’s Tears which is used to make beads.

Whenever a seed is given to the group it is logged and recorded before being put in the seed bank so future gardeners know exactly what seed they are getting and how to propagate it.

“There is a seed passport which is with each of them so we know the origin of the seed, that type of plant it is, what kind of conditions it needs and whether or not it can be eaten,” Ms Gillies said.

“We like to get as many edible seeds into the seed bank as possible because the other thing we are trying to do is really educate people about growing their own food.”

If you would like to roll your sleeves up and get involved in seed saving you can follow the Mareeba Seed Savers and Gardening Group on Facebook and people can join at any of the six meetings early in the year.

Laughter pays off for bus driver

BUS driver Kevin Jenkins has been taking passengers from Atherton to Cairns three times a week for many years and now his efforts to make patrons feel at ease and smile along the way have led to him being named a finalist in the Regional Driver of the Year awards.

The awards, run by Translink in conjunction with Trans North, aim to acknowledge and celebrate the important service bus drivers provide to the broader community.

Winners of the three categories will be announced in mid-April but whether he wins or not, Kevin says he is just happy doing his job.

Based in Atherton, Kevin is well known on the bus route between Atherton and Cairns and was nominated for being a “caring driver who is patient and friendly every time”.

“He loves to share a laugh with his passengers and make sure they feel comfortable,” the nomination reads.

Kevin says it’s all about loving what he does.

Mareeba Seed Savers and Gardening Group founders Ulla Melchiorsen (centre) and Peder Rasmussen with member Maria Gillies.

Mareeba-born bullriding series set to become largest in FNQ

BY RHYS THOMAS

BORN on the sands of the Mareeba Rodeo Grounds, the Great Northern Bullriding Series has grown to unimaginable heights in a few short years and has become Far North Queensland’s largest and most popular amateur bull riding series with potential to even break onto the national stage.

The series’ exponential growth over the past few years can be attributed to its close-up, fast paced action which puts spectators within arm’s reach of the riders as they battle some of Australia’s toughest bulls.

Directed by Mareeba local Peter Brown, alongside an extensive volunteer committee, the series has grown to be the largest amateur event of its kind in the Far North, eclipsing the ABCRA North Queensland Zone, the official bull riding competition of the region.

The series’ growth is evident through the number of rounds being held this year – last year there were only four rounds including the finals, and this year, that number has nearly doubled with seven already scheduled and two more waiting confirmation.

The Great Northern Bullriding Series has even joined forces with the national body, ABCRA, meaning riders competing in the series throughout the year also earn points for the North Queensland Zone title.

ABCRA North Queensland Zone has been struggling for the past couple of years and was close to folding so to help strengthen both it and bull riding in the north as a whole, Mr Brown made the decision to fall under the national body.

“What that means for our zone, ABCRA North Queensland, is whoever wins our title is probably going to win the national title – we have more rounds than they have rodeos,” Mr Brown said.

“The ABCRA North Queensland zone was pretty close to folding – they only had two or three rodeos so we want to add strength to their series.

“All the people who are in the Great Northern Bullriding Series are ABCRA members anyway, so after a chat with the zone president Kyle Milgate, it was decided that we would fall under and support them.”

Mr Brown has even received offers to expand the series further south as far as Bundaberg and even the Sunshine Coast, however as the series is driven by volunteers, that level of expansion is not feasible yet.

“We have had a lot of interest from southern organisation wanting us to go south with our product but we are just not there yet because we have jobs,” he said.

“It is a hobby at the moment, a great hobby and it is doing very well where it is now and the next step is it put it on the national stage.

“That is probably what we should be doing but with that comes new problems – people have to travel, take time off work or even work for the series.”

Spectators and riders alike are consistently drawn to the series as the crowd gets an electric show and competitors have a shot at winning big money. This year’s total prize money exceeds $45,000, with the title winner set to pocket $10,000.

However, the riders are not the only ones who financially benefit from the series as each round a local community group or charity is chosen to fundraise for – past recipients include the Mareeba RSL-Sub Branch, Make-A-Wish Foundation and more.

The series made its way to Innisfail for the first-time last year and a small pony club was approached to help run the series. They ended up making close to $50,000 just from one round of the bull ride.

“Every year, that club would raise money through goose raffles and what not and they would make about $2,500 a year and it was a hard slog selling tickets,” Mr Brown said.

“From the bull ride, they made $45,000 and that is because they worked hard and they deserved every cent they got.”

This year, the final round returns to Atherton for a third time running due to the great support council and the local community has shown every year as they raise money for the Make-A-Wish Foundation.

“Over the last two years, we have partnered with Make-A-Wish Foundation at our finals to raise money for this worthy organisation,” he said.

“Dallas Roesler and her team do a fabulous job at Make-a-Wish for our community in particular so we feel it is only right we continue that support.

“The crowds in Atherton are also among the best crowds so it makes for a great night.”

The series’ growth is being recognised across the country and “the proof is in the pudding” as Mr Brown just

signed a three-year deal with the Great Northern Brewing Company.

The first round of the Great Northern Bullriding Series is being held in

Mareeba this weekend in a special Anzac Day round before travelling around the region and finishing with the finals on 11 November.

LEST WE FORGET

Racing for Missy

BY ELLIE FINK

MISSY Clarkson was not a sporty type, according to her best friends, so she would be shocked to hear they will be running from Mareeba to Chillagoe for the Great Wheelbarrow Race in her memory.

Missy was diagnosed with three types of cancer in her short lifetime and passed away after her battle in 2020.

Since then, her mother Anj Mittelstadt has established a success organisation, This Strong Mum, and fundraising team Missy’s Donors, who help Queensland children with cancer.

The new team will for the first time this year, take on the challenge of the wheelbarrow race to raise money for the organisation.

MAREEBA PROGRAM

4.28am: Dawn Service at Anzac Park

5.00am: Gun Fire Breakfast for Veterans, Service Personnel & their Partners

At Bosca”s Burger Bar, former RSL building, 88 Byrnes Street, Mareeba

9.30am: Assemble at Post Office Centre for March

Parade Marshalls, Air Force Cadets

10.00am: March Commences

Terminates at Anzac Park

10.30am: Day Service commences

12 noon: Anzac Day Lunch at Mareeba Leagues Club

(Veterans, service personnel, invited guests & their partners)

2.00pm: Two Up at Mareeba Leagues Club

All welcome. Must be 18 or over to play PROGRAM

Flynn Hyde, Kobi Johnstone and Chris Borrell have joined together to form a trio under the name “Missy’s Donors Wheelies” in their friend’s honour.

Anj said she was proud to see the young men take up the challenge all in the name of cancer research.

“Kobi and Flynn were Missy’s best mates and together with Kobi’s Uncle Chris, they will run as a trio team in the event,” she said.

“All three men are successful sportsmen in their chosen sports, love leading a fit active lifestyle and enjoy being a part of the social fabric that makes the Tablelands so great in giving back to the community, especially Missy’s Donors.

“We are all pumped and looking forward to making some awesome memories and fundraising in Missy’s honour.”

Flynn was one of Missy’s closest friends

throughout her entire cancer journey and after her passing, he has honoured her memory and her legacy with everything he does.

He recalls a time when Missy would visit Kobi’s cricket matches and how she would have to Google everything because she had “no idea what was going on”.

“However if she were here right now she would be online researching what the Wheelbarrow Race was and finding ways for herself to help and ultimately be really excited,” Flynn said.

“The wheelbarrow race is nothing but one legendary event that pushes people to their limits while fundraising – 140km of blood, sweat and tears all going towards supporting someone in need.

“I know the reason I want to participate is because I never knew the pain that beautiful Missy was in and somehow, in some stupid way, I think that a painful race would help me understand.

“My main reason for competing in this race is fundraising. Gathering any little cent to put towards a family that was in much the same situation with Missy. Yes, once you have completed the race it sure does come with a huge milestone etc but, yeah, anything to help another cancer family.”

Flynn and Kobi are also growing their hair to shave the week before a fundraising event at the Malanda Big Pub and encourage people to support at www.thisstrongmum.com.au

Anj would also like to thank those who have sponsored their team so far this year - Jade Creations Landscaping, Keir QLD, Howe Farming, Harden Park Lawns, Commercial Property Services and The Big Pub.

Teens vandalise school

POLICE have charged a 13-year-old Mareeba girl with attempted arson among other offences after she, alongside two others, allegedly broke into St Thomas’s Primary School, smashed windows and lit a desk and two bins on fire.

At about 10.30pm on Wednesday, 5 April, it is alleged the 13-year-old Mareeba girl, in company with two other youths, entered the Mareeba educational facility on Walsh Street.

It is alleged the youths smashed multiple windows and glass doors to gain entry, and once inside the room, threw paint around causing damage to the interior.

It is further alleged that one of the girls lit fire to a desk and two rubbish bins, causing smoke damage to the room.

The 13-year-old Mareeba girl is set to appear in the Mareeba Children’s Court and investigations are continuing in relation to the other two youths.

Meanwhile a 32-year-old Mareeba man was alleged clocked doing 76km/h over the speed limit on a motorbike at 12pm on Wednesday, 5 April.

Police allege the man was travelling at 176km/h in an 100km/h zone at the time of the intercept.

He was issued with a traffic infringement notice for high end speeding of more than 40km/h over the limit and fined $1,653.

The infringement notice incurred eight demerit points and a six-month high-speed suspension.

Lucky local wins million dollar lotto

A LUCKY local is now $1 million richer after purchasing the winning ticket at Nextra Mareeba News, with big plans to “buy a yacht and p*** off!”.

The regular player received the shock of a lifetime when he walked into his local newsagency to check his lottery tickets and walked out as a newly minted millionaire.

“I feel numb!” he said.

“What an ecstatic feeling! I’ve been playing for nearly six decades and have been visiting Nex-

tra Mareeba News for quite some time now.

“I went to check my Monday and Wednesday Lotto ticket from last night, and the team member pulled me aside to check my winning numbers off one by one. I will keep it on the downlow and process the win in private.

“I’m not entirely sure what I’ll exactly do with the prize, but it would be a dream to buy a yacht and p*** off!”

Mareeba News owner Mary Graham congratulated the new millionaire.

Chris Borrell, Flynn Hyde and Kobi Johnstone will be taking on the 140km Great Wheelbarrow Race as a trio this year in honour of Missy Clarkson.

Man in fear after youth harassment

BY ELLIE FINK

AN 86-year-old man is now in fear of travelling through the main street of Mareeba on his mobility scooter after he was intimidated by a group of juveniles last week.

Ian Jessob was travelling into Mareeba on his mobility scooter near Coles when he was stopped by a group of youths who harassed him for money.

After refusing to give them money, he headed to the IGA, with the group following and taunting him, causing him to feel anxious and stressed.

“They didn’t follow me in, and I stayed in there for an hour, so I hoped I had shaken them off,” he said.

“I went back up the Beaurepaires turn-off near Coles and I heard them yelling out ‘there he is, go get him’. I pretended not to hear them and by then I was heading down towards Casali’s to cross the street and then they blocked me.”

An older member of the group blocked Mr Jessob’s mobility scooter as he attempted to cross the road and began threatening him and hurling racial slurs.

Although shaken, Mr Jessob sprung into action, turned his scooter around and headed towards the lights on Byrnes Street but the offenders pursued him.

“I managed to turn sideways and head back into town and there was a car on the railway track, so I waved them down to help but I don’t think they really understood what was happening,” he said.

“He told the kids to clear out and then said to me ‘they won’t come back’.”

Mr Jessob hoped that after the man in the car scared off the pack, he would be able to return home safely but the experience left him so angered, scared and traumatised, he could not continue his trip.

Fortunately, his daughter Pat Coughlin was nearby and he was able to call her to tell her what happened and get the help he needed.

Ms Coughlin immediately took her father to the police station to file a report however

he was so upset he struggled to speak to the officers who gave them a critical piece of advice – call 000.

“They said that by the time you dial the police number and wait for someone, it’s better you call triple zero if you feel like you’re in danger,” Ms Coughlin said.

“They said ‘don’t worry if it’s a false alarm, if you feel like you’re in danger always call’.”

Mr Jessob is urging people to heed the officer’s message and call emergency services if they ever feel unsafe, whether it be in the middle of town or in their own home.

Tablelands Patrol Group Senior Constable Aleda Day echoed this message and warned people that when they are walking around town, they needed to be alert and aware of their surroundings and what is going on around them.

“If there is a crime happening now and you feel your safety is threatened, then call Triple Zero (000) otherwise contact Policelink either online or via 13 14 44,” she said.

“Always remember that if you are a victim of any form of assault or violence, always report it to police as soon as possible.”

After living in Mareeba for over half a century, Mr Jessob is shocked by the increase in crime in the town, with many residents who have lived here their whole lives also commenting on social media about the increase in anti-social behaviour throughout Mareeba.

Mareeba Mayor Angela Toppin has ensured residents council is working with police to find the solution.

“The councillors and I share the concerns of the community regarding crime and anti-social behaviour we are seeing in our communities,” she said.

“Sadly, crime and anti-social behaviour is something that is not unique to Mareeba, it is happening across the State and nation.

“I would like to reassure residents council continues to advocate and act within the powers we have as a local government to improve community safety.”

Search on for firefighting memorabilia

THE hunt is on for firefighting memorabilia to fill the new Historic Village Herberton Fire Station exhibit.

The village is seeking items such as an old firefighter ladder, uniform, brass helmet, bells or even photos and newspaper clippings for the new exhibit to be established in the building that served as Herberton’s fire station from 1952 until September 1973 when a new brick station was built in Grace Street.

The old fire station then became the Girl Guide Hut and continued as their premises for almost 50 years until 2022 when Tablelands Regional Council con-

demned the building.

It was carefully dismantled by staff of the Historic Village Herberton under the leadership of project manager Bill Leet and established at the village, regaining its original fire station status.

It will showcase the Historic Village’s collections of old fire trucks along with as much firefighting memorabilia as possible.

Historic Village Herberton curator Darryl Cooper says there must be firefighting memorabilia, equipment and other relics out there in the wider community.

“The call out is for anything related

to firefighting such as ladders, uniforms, brass helmets, bells and other historic equipment, including breathing apparatus and resuscitation gear, since the early-mid 1900s as well as photos and newspaper clippings,” he said.

“We welcome anything people find for consideration. We would love to hear from you.”

If you have something of interest, or would like to donate, please contact manager@historicvillageherberton.com.au

The new Herberton Fire Station exhibit is due to open in June 2023 following a full restoration.

Bill Leet wants to hear from anyone with firefighting memorabilia for a new exhibit at Herberton Historic Village.

Voice campaign starts

A CAMPAIGN to encourage people to have conversations about the proposed First Nations Voice to Parliament has kicked off in the region.

The six-week education advertising campaign “History is Calling” will run on television, aiming to raise awareness about the Federal Government’s Voice proposal which will be the focus of a referendum later this year.

The ad features narrator, proud Pitjantjatjara and Nyungar man Trevor Jamieson, as he tells a story about how First Peoples achieved a Voice with the help of all Australians.

The story illustrates what a future might be if locals all supported the Voice at the upcoming referendum.

Alwyn Lyall, Kuku Yalanji

man and Uluru Dialogue representative, said the Uluru Dialogue is focused on raising awareness for the Voice in Far North Queensland and that the Voice is a reform that all Australians can be proud of.

“The Voice is the first reform called for in the Uluru Statement and it’s a reform that the men and women of the Regional Dialogues told us would make a real difference to the everyday lives of First Peoples,” Mr Lyall said.

“Broadcasting ‘History is Calling’ in Far North Queensland shows our commitment to building education and awareness.

“It’s our hope people will accept the invitation from the Uluru Statement and understand

why the Voice matters.”

Mr Lyall said the Uluru Dialogue is using the “History is Calling” ad to drive conversations about the practical benefits of the Voice.

“We all need to get behind this referendum. The ad shows how powerful these conversations with our families, friends

and colleagues are in making change, so let’s keep having them,” he said.

“Over the coming months, we’ll be at market stalls and holding Yarning Circles across Far North Queensland to talk about what the Voice is why it matters and what it will do for the future of this nation.”

FEDERAL Member for Leichhardt, Warren Entsch will oppose the Voice to Parliament which will be subject of a referendum later this year in support of the Liberal Party’s position announced by Opposition Leader Peter Dutton on Wednesday.

Mr Entsch said it was all about “actual change rather than tokenism” and adopting new approaches to improve the lives of Indigenous Australians.

“I’ve always argued that recognition is absolutely overdue and should be in the constitution, and I support that wholeheartedly,” he said.

“However, the Voice as currently put forward by the Government won’t make a tangible difference without involving local popularly elected leaders to present their case for their own respective communities.”

He emphasised that he would support a legislated Voice mechanism, but the focus must be on local voices and addressing a range

of issues, including birthing clinics, improved health services, drug and alcohol rehabilitation centres closer to remote communities, and better housing configurations.

“We must engage in local and regional solutions,” he said.

“We don’t need more metropolitan, academic selfappointed leaders dictating to local communities – we can see how well that approach has worked so far.”

Mr Entsch expressed concerns that the current proposal, if passed, would likely not address longstanding issues that have plagued many remote Indigenous communities.

“Enshrining a Voice in the Constitution may seem to some like a solution, but I have significant reservations that it won’t actually address the issues in remote communities and could, in fact, make things worse,” he said.

An image from the new advertising campaign to promote the Voice to Parliament.

Water project cost doubles

BY ROBYN HOLMES

NEARLY $17 million in contracts have been awarded to bring five water supply schemes that supply the communities of Ravenshoe, Bellview, Cassowary and Millstream North and South into one scheme to improve water quality being delivered to homes.

The project originally included the design and construction of a water treatment plant at the Ravenshoe reservoir site, construction of a new water main and booster pump station from Ravenshoe to Bellview and Cassowary, and construction of a new water main from Ravenshoe to Millstream North and South.

But the cost of the project is much more than

the $9 million council had budgeted, which has forced the deferral of the pipeline to Bellview and Cassowary.

Mayor Rod Marti said the project had “pretty much doubled in cost” since the council determined a budget for the project.

“This has been a real challenge given the changing cost of delivering these projects – we budgeted quite a lot of money for this project a few years ago and we were all on track but it has pretty much doubled in price,” he said.

“So, we have a very significant spend in Ravenshoe to get that water up to speed and it’s taken a lot of time and resources from officers.”

Currently, water supplies from the five run-ofriver schemes are considered high-risk with the only treatment process in place being chlorination.

Major award for Tarzali treehouse

TUCKED away in the rainforests of Tarzali, a boutique treehouse accommodation has scored big, taking out the Travel and Hospitality Awards Boutique Accommodation of the Year in Queensland.

The Canopy Treehouse has evolved, grown and strengthened over the past 20 years and for general manager Daniel Carroll, the award is a game changer for his business and has given his staff a huge boost in confidence and pride.

The international awards are a recognition program for the travel industry for the best hotels, tour operators, experience providers, spa and wellness facilities, restaurants, and technology and innovation companies across the world.

After nominating for the award last year,

Mr Carroll almost forgot he entered as he began upgrades to the treehouse accommodation.

“It is just one of those things when life kind of gets in the way but when I received the call saying he had won (Boutique Accommodation of the Year), I was in total shock,” he said.

“It has been a huge boost in our confidence and a lift in our energy for the team to continue doing the amazing work we do.

“We are proud to be touch so many people, locally and internationally, with our accommodation and to give them such a luxurious experience in our beautiful rainforest.

“At the moment we are doing upgrades to the treehouses to try make give our visitors the most enjoyable experience.”

“As such these schemes are subject to frequent regulatory boil water notices when river water quality deteriorates to a point where the efficacy of chlorine disinfectant cannot be guaranteed,” a council report explained.

“This creates significant inconvenience for the local communities and poses a potential public health risk.”

Cr Annette Haydon said water quality in the area had not changed in 50 years but when Queensland Health changed the regulations in 2012, it triggered the need for frequent boil water notices.

“In 2020-21, the construction of a 3.9 megalitre water reservoir helped to solve the problem of boil water notices with the 520 connections in Ravenshoe,” she said.

“Unfortunately the 479 connections in the Mill-

stream area have had to endure ongoing boil water notices due to poor water quality in the Millstream.

“When the project is completed, this will bring the total number of 996 properties connected to a new water treatment plant that is able to supply drinking water that meets health standards 100 per cent of the time.

“Approximate 13km of pipeline will also be installed to Millstream to connect to the Ravenshoe Reservoir.”

Cr Bilney described the project as TRC’s priority project which was expected to be completed late 2024.

“Understanding the community angst relating to the continued boil notices is paramount - the community (needs to) understand the timelines and the scope of work being undertaken,” he said.

General manager Daniel Carroll, housekeepers Barbrara Pitt and Kym Shorey and our maintenance man Greg Slade are proud to be recognised at the Travel and Hospitality Awards.

New signs add life to Millaa Millaa street

VIBRANT new banners have been installed in Millaa Millaa recently by the local Lions Club after several residents commented on how dull and worn the old ones were.

The project began last year, with several local artists banding together to create the new signs that depict the beauty and uniqueness of Millaa Millaa.

Lions Club president Catriona Arnold-Nott said she was pleased with the outcome of the new signage and invites everyone to come check it out.

“There were about 50 people present (at the unveiling),

who all enjoyed listening to Joann Schmider from the Mamu nation as she shared some interesting history and

Push to keep money for traffic services local

MORE than $180,000 was spent on traffic control services from a Cairns provider in one month by Tablelands Regional Council but Deputy Mayor Cr Kevin Cardew wants it to stop.

Cr Cardew told a recent meeting he was concerned that 11 orders for traffic control services totalling $181,000 in February had been given to a Cairns-based company instead of local providers.

“I’m getting phone calls from traffic control companies within our own local government area saying they are not getting a fair go,” he said.

“Here we are with $181,000 in one month alone and we all know how much we use traffic control services.

“So, I want to see our local people get a fair go and be offered this work before we go outside of our local government area.”

Infrastructure Services general manager Mark Viz believed the problem was a “very short-term” one, explaining there would be an opportunity for local providers to be added to the council’s pre-qualified supplier register when it comes due for renewal in May.

He said there had been a local provider on a previous register but that business had ceased to

operate.

“As you might understand, when we purchase traffic control services, some are planned but there are a lot of repeat short term procurement activities that we would prefer to use the prequalified register for because we have all already have got them on board, we have got their insurance and certifications and all of those types of things on the books so basically it’s an easier way to engage them on an ad hoc basis,” Mr Vis said.

Cr Cardew said when the register was first established some years ago, he had asked whether local companies could be added to the prequalified suppliers register at any time during the year or whether they had to wait until it was open again.

“I was told ‘yes’ but I have been told by a supplier that they can’t get on the list until it comes up again,” he said.

Mr Viz said he was unaware of any local contractor who had requested to be on the register and took the question on notice.

Chief executive officer Gary Rinehart advised that a report on the use of traffic control services would be provided to councillors in the near future.

Multiple charges for Malanda man

welcomed us to Country,” she said.

“Lions Club would like to thank their subcommittee members Carina Platt, Susanne Reynolds and Rayanne Chalk; the artists Bob Sinclair, Robyn Moule, Lyndal White, Margo Watkins, Peter Lawlor, and Eacham Historical society; graphic deisgner Mandy Postle; the workers who hung the banners; Mamu artist Melanie Hava for the kind donation of her designs; and all those who came to celebrate with us on Saturday.”

“Tablelanders, we invite you all to come and check out our glorious Main Street!”

Towns cop 1m of rainfall

MORE than a metre of rain has fallen in both Mareeba and Atherton since the start of the year.

With finer weather forecast for April, locals will be looking forward to getting into the wet-

test parts of their properties after 1090mm of rain fell in Atherton since the year began, with 566mm falling in January alone.

Mareeba, known for its 300 sunny days a year, was inundated by 616mm of rain in

January, 250mm in February, 142mm in March, and 30mm in April so far, bringing the total to 1038mm to date.

Walkamin recorded just below the metre mark, with 974mm of rainfall.

A MALANDA man has fallen foul of the law after multiple incidents occurred in the Ravenshoe area late last month.

The man was intercepted on Tully Falls Road, Koombooloomba, at about 3am on 30 March for vehicle checks when police allegedly located a quantity of cannabis, methylamphetamine, hashish and money in the vehicle.

The man then returned to Ravenshoe where it will be further alleged he conducted burnouts outside the police station causing damage to the fence and chopping up the grass on the footpath.

Police also claim that when they attempted to speak to the man on 1 April at an address on Ascham Street, he resisted arrest, kicking the vehicle door into an officer.

The 31-year-old man is expected to appear in the Atherton Magistrates Court on 18 April 18, charged with one count each of possessing dangerous drugs, possessing property suspected of having been used in a crime, possessing drug utensils, possessing dangerous drugs schedule 1 drug quantity, dangerous operation of motor vehicle, wilful damage, obstructing police and assaulting police.

Joe Tranter, Catriona

Arnold-Nott, Rob Platt helping raise the new banners.

Jim Nash and Ross Heidke helping hang banners.

Test your nerve with ‘death brew’ “It is fire-trucking nasty”

BY RHYS THOMAS

A LOCAL chilli enthusiast has joined hands with his world-renowned woodworking father to deliver an insanely powerful chilli sauce, aptly named “deathly hot”, it is adorned in a handmade coffin and is comprised of the world’s hottest peppers and a special ingredient.

Jamie McConnachie cooked his first batch of chilli three years ago while living in Brisbane after a fateful meeting with an iron-gutted man who had a love for chilli.

He begun cooking with the sole goal of “burning this bastard” but has since fell in love with the process of making chilli and experiments with all different kinds of batches.

After returning to his family’s farm on McIver Road two and a half years ago, Jamie has continued to concoct a range of different sauces and products which he mainly sells at local markets under the name Jamie’s Chilli.

Jamie took over from his father’s stall who is a well-known marketeer and world famous woodworker, Jim McConnachie.

Tears is the typical response Jamie receives whenever someone comes to try his chilli at a local market and a recent batch made three experienced chilli-heads leave in “discomfort”.

Jamie has not restricted himself to just making chilli sauce and tries to make sure nothing is wasted in each step of the process and makes pow-

ders, jams, peanuts, pastes and all sorts of other products from his chillis.

He grows most the chillis he uses on the property including Carolina Reapers – the hottest pepper in the world.

“99 percent of the products I use I grow,” he said.

Jamie uses the same four key chillis in each one of his mixes – the Carolina Reaper, Trinidad Scorpion, Ghost Pepper and Habanero for flavour.

The heat and pungency of chilli and pepper is measured using the Scoville Heat Scale, a normal capsicum is roughly 2000-3000 units while a Carolina Reaper reads 2.2 million units.

“The best tasting chilli is Habanero, then it just comes down to how much heat you can handle,” he said.

Jamie’s newest concoction, Deathly Hot Coffin Brew, is a joint venture with his father as the super-hot chillis are encased in a beautiful, hand-made wooden coffin – there are only 20 available in the 150ml bottle while there will be a few more available in the smaller 50ml bottle.

The key ingredient for the new Deathly Hot Coffin Brew is Capsaicin Crystal, an extract used in mace which

Jamie McConnachie with a selection of his different chilli-based products including the newly released Deathly Hot Coffin Brew.

measures 16 million Scoville units –over five times hotter than the world’s hottest pepper.

“Every conversation at every market has been ‘what’s your hottest’, so I just keep developing,” he said.

“I have avoided using additives, sprays and all that sort of stuff but because people keep asking me for it,

HANDS-ON TRAINING

IN

Introduction to outdoor power equipment maintenance (non-accredited)

Friday 28 April 2023

One day/week for six weeks (three consecutive Fridays, one week break, three consecutive Fridays)

Chemical application for agriculture skill set

> Transport and store chemicals AHCCHM304

> Prepare and apply chemicals to control pest, weeds and diseases AHCCHM307

Tuesday 9 May, Wednesday 10 May 2023

Accredited, two-day course

Deathly Hot was developed.

“To give you an idea, it has 50g of Capsaicin Crystal for a four-kilo mix which is just nuts.

“I have built up my immunity to the burn and that was the first batch that I had to put gloves on because previously when I was just prepping it, my hands burned for four days – it is fire-

trucking nasty.”

If you would like to follow Jamie’s journey head to his Facebook page, Jamie’s Chilli, to get your hands on one of his chillis send him an email at jamieschillifnq@gmail.com or you can find him at the Make, Bake and Grow Markets in Mareeba every second and fifth Saturday of the month.

Operate and maintain chainsaws SSAHC0005

Wednesday 31 May, Thursday 1 June 2023

Accredited, two-day course

Operate quad bikes SSAHC1011

Thursday 15 June 2023 One-day course

Operate side by side utility vehicles SSAHC0004

Thursday 15 June 2023

Accredited, one-day course

A passion for pups

BY ELLIE FINK

A MOTHER and daughter duo has taken the showing world by storm, with their pure-bred Labradors earning several awards in the past few years.

Malanda Lab’s Michelle Ginn and her daughter Emily have been working with Labradors since 2014, when Michelle bought home the family’s very first puppy.

The whole family fell in love with the baby pup, but soon tragedy struck and they lost it to a paralysis tick.

“I went got a little yellow bitch and we lost her in about a week due to a paralysis tick so the whole family was just absolutely devastated,” Michelle said.

“We simply couldn’t get over her loss and I said to my mum ‘I think we are going to have to find another dog because we cannot get over this loss’ and when we started looking around, there was none up here.”

Michelle and her family searched the entire region and still were unable to find the perfect pure-bred lab so they began looking online.

She became intrigued by the work done by breeders throughout her research and knew it was something she wanted to get involved in.

“I started to think ‘hang on this is something I am really interested in’ because I grew up on a farm with every animal you could possibly think of,” she said.

“I used to race home from school to the chook pen and hatch my duckling

and my cows would have bubba cows, calves, so I’m a real farm girl.”

Michelle’s interest in breeding dogs grew and that’s when she decided it was time to start her breeding business – Malanda Labs.

Being strongly against backyard unethical breeding, Michelle poured hours of research into her business to ensure everything was perfect.

In 2014, she bought her first boy pup and two bitch pups at the same time and she started.

She admittedly made a few mistakes along the way, but she was quick to learn from them, joining groups such as Dogs Queensland and the Cairns City Kennel Club for guidance.

Michelle also consulted Queensland Lab Club president Wilhelm Chang, who became a great mentor and friend to Michelle and Emily as they stepped up into the lab world.

Emily soon followed in her mother’s footsteps helping breed and raise the pups and in 2020, she began showing them.

“She is right into the breeding, and we started showing in November of 2020,” Michelle said.

“She just shines in the ring, and we’ve titled five dogs now, so they’ve all got their Australian championship points and this year we are hoping to do a few more.”

Some of the top dogs Emily and Michelle have titled are Rumpy, a golden male, in the Cairns City Kennel Club’s “Gundog of the Year” category, Karma who won Baby Puppy in Show, and

Justice who won best puppy of breed at the Brisbane EKKA.

Emily has fallen deeply in love with dog handling, taking on the role of teaching the dogs how to behave and stand appropriately for showing.

With the guidance of her mother, Wilhelm and the clubs she is a mem-

Sudden illness prompts tick warning

A RAVENSHOE man is urging locals to give themselves a once over for ticks after being diagnosed with Bell’s Palsy from what he believes was a paralysis tick bite.

Bell’s Palsy is a reaction to a viral infection that has similar characteristics to a stroke, including muscle weakness, drooping on one side of the face, and pain.

Paolo Fanali was told by doctors they weren’t sure what may have triggered the condition but he is almost 100 per cent it was caused after he scratched off a tick on his neck whilst asleep.

He now has to wear an eyepatch over one eye because he cannot blink and will have to spend up to six months to recover from the disease.

“I want to make people aware about ticks and make sure they are treating their dogs because ticks can jump from dog to human,” Mr Fanali said.

“I think that is what happened in my case because I was walking with my dog as I do every day in the bush.

“It makes sense to me that it is the tick bite

because my nerves have been contaminated on the area that the tick was. I can’t lift my left eyebrow, I can’t close my eye properly, my lips don’t work properly on my left side.”

Mr Fanali expressed his concern that he was not tested for Lyme disease and says the common disease caused by ticks bites is “not recognised” in Australia.

A Federal Government website states that scientists are yet to find the Borrelia burgdorferi bacteria (which causes Lyme disease) in Australian ticks, but testing is available via GP referral.

WHAT TO DO IF YOU HAVE A TICK

If you have a tick on your skin, use a pair of clean fine-tipped tweezers to grasp onto the head of the tick as close to the skin’s surface. Pull the tick upwards with a steady even pressure and avoid ripping the body from the head. Once removed, use rubbing alcohol to clean the bite area.

If you begin to feel unwell as a result of the tick bite, consult your GP.

ANIMAL RESCUE TABLELANDS INC.

IS HOSTING A

Fundraising Event

at Bosca’s Burger Bar (in the old RSL building)

Sunday 16th April, 2023

Doors open 11.30am for Buffet at 12 noon

Come along for food, drink, dance, raffles and fun!

Brush up on your limbo moves and your knowledge of early Australia.

$30 Per Person - RSVP by 12th April

To book contact Bosca`s on 07 3110 0933 or Rena 0412 840 107

ber of, she hopes to make it big in the breeding and showing world.

“I like working with the dogs and I think it’s a good challenge because every dog is different whether it be their temperament or the way they stack (the way a dog stands in show),” she said.

Dr Shepherd now consulting at Atherton Health Hub (25 Louise Street) every four weeks on a Thursday.

Dates: 20th April, 18th May, 15th June and 13th July

For appointments contact us. Patients can contact us directly (with or without a GP referral) to make an appointment for a consultation.

Phone: 07 4031 8400

Fax: 07 4031 8418

Email: admin@orthoshep.com.au

For more information on Dr Shepherd’s services scan:

“I exercise the dogs every day because they are also judged on their muscles and I run them around the front yard.”

The Ginn’s hope to expand on their breeding business, with Emily determined to convince her mother to look into Dobermans next.

orthopaedic

David Shepherd is a Mareeba born General Orthopaedic Surgeon with an interest in hip, knee and shoulder including joint replacement. He has been providing quality

services to the Cairns region for 30 years.

Michelle Ginn, Karma and Emily from Malanda Labs love everything to do with breeding and showing dogs.

THE Tablelands is an area steeped in history and the towns within the region all boast their own unique story and footprint that has left a mark on the land.

From Mareeba being the biggest tobacco growing area in the country to the famous tin mines in Herberton, buildings in each town have a story to tell.

With the help of both the Mareeba Historical Society and the Eacham Historical Society, Express journalist RHYS THOMAS wanted to learn about and share the history of some of the oldest buildings still standing today.

In part one of the series we look at the old mining town of Herberton which is steeped in history...

our

The historic old mining town of Herberton

THE oldest commercial building in Herberton (aside from those residing in the historical village) is the Royal Hotel which was founded in 1880.

Originally a single storey structure, the hotel was later expanded to what is seen today and some of the original building is said to have been used in the upper floor of the current building.

Owner Rick Shirreff was determined to inject some life back into the 142-year-old pub and in June of 2020, he set about a quick refurbishment and give the old hotel some well-deserved attention.

Sitting alongside the Grand Hotel and now just across the road is the second oldest commercial building, the TRC library which was originally the school of arts which was opened in 1881.

On 31 December 1880 an open-air public meeting was held for the purpose of founding a School of Arts in Herberton.

There was strong support from the public and donations of £50 were given for the purpose of opening the school.

A site was purchased for £18 in early January the next year and by the end of the month, a bark structure had been erected.

Apparently, it was the first community building in the district.

Arguably the most famous building in Herberton is the beautifully preserved “Elderslie” in the Herberton Historical Village – the home of John Newell a mayor of the town in the late 1880s.

The home now sits as the shining jewel of the extensive historical display at the village.

Enrol Now for 2024 and 2025

Modern, state of the art classrooms, day schooling and boarding facilities for boys and girls. Our curriculum provides academic or vocational pathways and the best possible employment opportunities.

Your child will enjoy small class sizes, individual student attention for maximum outcomes, and sporting and cultural opportunities.

Our college is founded on the basis that no child will be denied a Catholic education based on financial hardship. Generous fee concessions apply to holders of means-tested concession cards and those with a genuine inability to pay.

For a Tour or more information –Phone

4096 1444 or email msb.enrolments@cns.catholic.edu.au

A old photo of the Herberton School of Arts (above) which is now the town’s library (below).

The beautifully preserved “Elderslie”, John Newell’s residence in the Herberton Historical Village.

The Royal Hotel is one of Herberton’s most iconic building and was first established in 1880.

PEOPLEour PLACESour

Max – Mareeba’s little Mobil servo champion

BY going above and beyond in his normal duties, one young worker has become something of a hometown celebrity as the legend of “Max from Mobil” has spread throughout Mareeba.

16-year-old Max Bostock has been working his first job at Trinity Petroleum’s Mobil Mareeba site as a customer service attendant for the past nine months and has gained Facebook fame as tales of his kindness, courteousness and willingness to help has spread in the community like wildfire.

Max’s positive attitude has left a lasting impression on many people including a five-year-old girl who refuses to be served by anyone else other than Max and will wait until he is free before approaching the counter.

Mareeba Trinity Petroleum manager Denise Marshall said people have come into Mobil just to see if the rumours about Max are true and even take photos with the young man.

“His politeness, willingness to help and attitude towards the customers has just been outstanding and he has really improved in leaps and bounds,” she said.

“The comments then started on the community page and now people are coming in and always commenting on how good of a worker he is.

“He goes out and he helps customers, carries

stuff out for them which is unusual for some people and they just love his thoughtfulness.”

Locals have taken to the Mareeba Community Noticeboard to sing his praises and the posts garnered hundreds of likes and comments.

“This young fella gives me hope in a world of uncertainty,” Darren Alston commented.

Michael Zuvela said, “Max is a champion. Great work ethic and a very polite confident young man.”

Another happy customer knew exactly who people were raving about despite never learning Max’s name.

“Didn't know his name, but knew instantly who you guys meant, as there is only one 'kid' who works at a servo and just brightens my day, every single time I see him,” Mandy Carvin said.

Max hasn’t quite come to terms with his status as a hometown celebrity and believes he is just doing his job and helping people where he can.

“People come in all the time and say they know me from Facebook and the community page,” he said.

“Sometimes I just feel the need to help people out.

“It does feel good to be recognised for something I do.”

Community Foundation Skills

What:

When: April 18th - June 22nd, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday

Who: Open to all ages (minimum age 15)

Cost: No cost to participants

Where: PCYC Mareeba, 136 Walsh Street, Mareeba

Contact: Jorgia Brown, Program Coordinator P 0447 264 658 - E jorgia.brown@pcyc.org.au This

RHYS THOMAS spoke with two locals who have become hometown celebrities by going above and beyond in their workplaces

Kodi – the bright star of Fresh St Market IGA

DESPITE struggling to socialise and communication due to Asperger syndrome, Kodi Buchanan has been working at Fresh St Market IGA for close to a year and thanks and his bright, bubbly and ready-to-help attitude, he has become a staple staff member.

When he was younger, Kodi had a dream about working and interacting with people and thanks to the support of Cairns-based business Worklink and Atherton’s Fresh St Market IGA, he is able to live out his dream.

Kodi commenced work with Fresh St in Atherton on 23 August last year and has since become a staple staff member.

As he has severe Asperger’s syndrome, whenever Kodi become excited about something he becomes loud and even has a badge that says ‘when I am loud, I am happy’.

Asperger’s is a developmental disorder that affects one’s ability to socialise and communicate, it is a condition on the autism spectrum and people with the condition can be socially awkward and have an all-absorbing interest in specific topics.

Kodi enjoys meeting new and different types of people and likes to talk to them about things and products he enjoys in the store.

“I really enjoy working there as I just love my job and the other staff are great to work with, no day is ever the same,” he said.

“I like asking now people’s days are going and if a customer buys something I like, I tell them a bit about it.”

Georgia Mead from Worklink was a key part in Kodi securing a job at Fresh Street after a conversation revealed he “always wanted to do checkout work.”

“When I met Kodi, I asked what he wanted to do and it was to work in I.T. and nothing else,” Ms Mead said.

“One day in conversation I mentioned about IGA and then Kodi made a comment that he has wanted to do checkout work since he was young.”

Kodi then spoke to Rachael Grandcourt from Fresh St and after speaking to her it made him realise he wanted to work at IGA.

“I love the relationships I have developed with regular customers, who have told my manager, Claire, that they like being served by me as I am always happy,” he said.

“IGA and Worklink are great supporters for people with a disability as I have Aspergers and the louder I am, the more cheerful I am.”

16-year-old Max Bostock from Mareeba Trinity Petroleum Mobil has become a hometown celebrity over the past nine months due to his selfless attitude and willingness to help others.

Kodi Buchanan has realised his dream of helping people in their everyday lives by working at Fresh St Market IGA, pictured with Human Resources manager Rachel Grandcourt and Customer Service manager Claire Maletz.

Our Council Our Community COMMUNITY REVEGETATION NURSERY

Our Community Revegetation Nursery grows more than 300 locally native plant species for revegetation projects. The plants range from small garden and landscaping plants to large rainforest trees.

Species vary seasonally and from year to year depending on seed germination and other environmental factors.

Plants are currently $7.20 each and we have discounts for bulk purchases and approved restoration projects. Fees are adjusted annually and a pot-return discount is applied to the restoration rate. Find out more at trc.qld.gov.au/fees-charges

Plants can be ordered up to 12 months in advance and species and pot sizes can be grown to order.

Our customers generally purchase plants for revegetation projects, including habitats for Southern Cassowaries and Lumholtz’s Treekangaroos, and windbreaks. Talk to our staff to learn how to select, plant, grow and maintain local plant species, and to find the best plants for your project.

The nursery is at Winfield Park on Lake Barrine Road, near Malanda, and is open 8am–4pm on Tuesdays, except public holidays.

Join us at the nursery for our free community open day at 9am–3pm Saturday 22 April! We’ll be having fun activities including making seed balls, quizzes, games, and plant and fruit identification. You’ll also find out about volunteering at the nursery, and can buy plants at our sale.

The Community Revegetation Nursery Business Plan was completed in late 2021 and we have been working to implement the 11 opportunities it identified. We have reviewed and improved our production processes, refreshed our local and regional networks, doubled our volunteer program, reviewed species list and pricing, and increased promotion of the opportunities the nursery provides to the community. It’s important that our community is aware of the significance of high biodiversity landscape restoration and revegetation.

Follow us on socials to see our monthly plant profile. In April it’s Riberry Lilly Pilly Syzygium leuhmanii. This fast growing, medium-sized ornamental rainforest tree has glossy green foliage; fluffy, cream-coloured flowers; and large pink fruit. The fruit can be eaten fresh or used in sauces and jams. Riberry Lilly Pillies are great for hedging and windbreaks, and attract bees, butterflies and birds.

Would you like to help out in our nursery?

We welcome and appreciate volunteers on Tuesdays and Thursdays. There is a wide range of tasks including:

• processing seeds for propagation and storage

• potting seedlings into tube stock

• moving stock through production areas

• maintenance

• repairing or creating materials

• cleaning workspaces, pots and other equipment record keeping, data entry and other administrative tasks

• plant health maintenance. Find out more and apply at trc.qld.gov.au/volunteer

Head to trc.qld.gov.au/communityrevegetation-nursery to find out more!

• Revegetation in the Wet Tropics including project planning, site preparation, planting and maintenance.

If you’ve got native fruit or seeds, please collect them and drop them at the nursery. The fruit and seeds will contribute to revegetation projects in our region.

1. Collect fruit and a branch (to confirm identification). Don’t take everything — leave some for the critters.

2. Take the fruit and branch to our Community Revegetation Nursery.

3. If no-one is there, leave them at the gate in a bag or container that you no longer need, and include a note about where and when the fruit was collected.

• What our nursery has achieved over the last 30 years including contributing to projects that create critical wildlife corridors, repair heavily disturbed areas and reduce the amount of sediment being transported to the Great Barrier Reef.

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

ENTERTAINMENT

Event supports rescue animals

THE ANIMAL Rescue Tablelands Inc is hosting a fundraising event at Bosca’s on Sunday to help raise funds for their cause.

Animal Rescue Tablelands Inc. is a non-for-profit charity group that rescues stray animals and rehomes them to their “fur-ever” home.

The work they do would be impossible without donations that help fund their vet work and other important rescue expenses.

The fundraising event at Boscas will kick off at 11.20am for a buffet at noon. Dancing, raffles and trivia will also take place throughout the whole event.

It is $30 a person to attend with all money raised going towards the rescue. Contact Rena on 0412 840 107 to RSVP before 12 April.

Great family movie entertainment

THE magic of the movies continues for the last week of holidays, with two great movies at the Majestic Theatre in Malanda.

The colourful animated family adventure comedy “The Super Mario Bros Movie”, based on the world’s biggest selling game, features a Brooklyn plumber named Mario who travels through the Mushroom Kingdom with a princess named Peach and an anthropomorphic mushroom named Toad to find Mario’s brother, Luigi, and to save the world

from a ruthless fire-breathing Koopa named Bowser.

The action adventure fantasy, “Dungeons And Dragons: Honour Amongst Thieves”, is all about a charming thief and a band of unlikely adventurers who embark on an epic quest to retrieve a lost relic, but things go dangerously awry when they run afoul of the wrong people.

Both movies are great family entertainment. For more information and session times, go to www.majestictheatre.com.au

Dancing in the libraries

THERE will be dancing in Tablelands libraries next month as part of a program to increase the activity of older women.

Tablelands Regional Council has partnered with Zumba Gold Atherton to deliver free “Lively Library” programs in three libraries across the region.

“These programs aim to increase the participation of older women in physical activity and showcases our ongoing commitment to influencing positive behaviour change and healthy exercise habits in the community,” Cr Annette Haydon said.

“The program will cater to all abilities and includes an introduction to relevant library

Music event on again

resources available.”

The program will run for four weeks in the Atherton, Herberton and Ravenshoe libraries. One of the sessions will be for Chair Zumba.

The sessions will be at Atherton Library between 9-10am on Tuesdays between 9-30 May; Herberton Library between 1-2pm on Wednesdays between 7-28 June; and Ravenshoe Library between 11am-12 noon on Wednesdays between 7-28 June.

Anyone interested is urged to register now by going to www.trc.qld.gov.au/livelylibraries as places are limited. Participants must register Friday 28 April.

MT Uncle Distillery will be hosting their second “Music At The Mount” event on Saturday 15 April and are inviting locals to come along for a night of fun.

Live performers Kaweyova and Peter Kinch will take centre stage from 2pm-8pm.

Cocktails, beers and food trucks will be available.

ON LANDthe

Mustering into the future

Seasoned cattleman’s vision of a new era on the land

BY ELLIE FINK

A BOOM in technology on local farms is making the lives of those living on the land easier, including seasoned cattleman Alan Pedersen who is one of many embracing new ways of doing things.

One of the ways technology is being used is the introduction of drones on cattle stations which gives graziers the option to put the compact aircraft into flight and track down cattle in half the time a helicopter can.

Although helicopters are still the number one choice when it comes to mustering, Alan, who is the owner of the massive Karma Waters station north-west of Chillagoe, believes the ease and efficiency of the new technology will greatly benefit his cattle operations.

“We have got a drone, but they will never replace helicopters entirely,” he said.

“They can be used as a spotting tool and you can just put them up and spot cattle but when it comes down to actually mustering cattle in Savannah country, it is very difficult, especially in hilly country.”

Being able to fly through unreachable places is one of the great benefits of his DJI Mini 3 Pro drone, as helicopters and musterers on horseback or in motor vehicles struggle to get into certain parts of the property.

Although it cannot physically move the animal, the drone helps Alan and his workers to easily track down the beasts hiding between trees or in hilly areas and take the next steps to bring them home.

“What moves cattle with the helicopters is the noise and the downdraft – so if you were to sit under a helicopter that is about 50 metres up, the noise and the downdraft gets you going if you are a cow,” he said.

“Helicopters are often very busy with two or three different mobs of cattle that can be far back, and you can miss a few of them but with a drone, you can work in conjunction with the helicopter to help spot cattle hiding in bushes.”

Spotting cattle isn’t the only benefit drones are bringing to Alan’s station, with the device proving to be useful during recent heavy rain which caused several rivers and causeways to flood on the property.

Sending the drone out over waterways, Alan can now take photographs of damage on his property and where water has blocked entries and exits throughout floods, allowing him to monitor them until they can be repaired.

In the past, the drone has also been used to find trespassers on his property camping and pig hunting, with the information taken from the drone used when contacting police.

As technology progresses into the new age, Alan envisions a variety of different technologies being implemented into the station, including a microchip like device imbedded into cattle.

“I think the one thing that would help most in the future are ‘ceres tag’, which is basically a tag with a solar panel on them and it helps you track them,” he said.

“On country, those tags last about 10 minutes because there is a lot of timber that the cattle get into to scratch them out of their ear.

“I think they need to turn those big things into a chip like a dog or horse. That’s when you start talking because then there will come a day when my boys (station workers) will be able to just tap their computer screens and then zoom in on the cattle through satellite and be able to say, for argument’s sake, ‘that’s 12431, she was born

here, and she was branded that way’.”

Having the cattle’s history connected to the chip will also ease the process of selling the animals, with graziers given the ability to see the quality of cattle from its history.

Communication technology has also help create more efficiency during mustering, with simple etxts and emails now replacing telegrams via the Royal Flying Doctor Service to UHFC radio.

With a device as simple as a mobile phone or laptop, Alan believes technology will help the industry boom and create important collaborations when it comes to mustering.

“You sent telegrams and that was your only form of communication back then (when he started the business),” Alan said.

“If you wanted to tell your neighbour when you were mustering, you would have to work it out two months in advance and write them a letter which they would get two weeks later and then they’d had to write back to you again.

“Now you can just pick up your mobile phone and send them a text or email.”

NEW RELEASE INTO AUSTRALIA!

Just released into the Australian market the HX range from Kioti has entered its next chapter – a premium tractor with a luxurious design and extreme power thanks to top-of-the-line specs. The ergonomically designed cabin reduces fatigue and maximises convenience for the driver.

Ease of operation was at the forefront of development of the HX, so the electronic armrest and Powershift lever are conveniently located on the righthand side. A premium passenger seat is a feature of the spacious cabin, creating an environment where comfort is the overriding priority.

The curved window shield meets the roof, providing maximum peripheral vision. This enables accurate and safe loader operation, as well as an incredible view from the cab. And that’s just the beginning of the HX…

Karma Waters station owner Alan Pedersen with his drone which makes mustering and running a cattle station much easier.

This model will be at this year’s

Big results for bag recovery

Big Bag Recovery collects plastic sacks and bulk bags used for products over 15kg or 15 litres, like fertiliser, seeds, animal feeds, flour, salt, sugar, milk powders, sand, gravel, mulch, cement and more.

IPF CEO Christine Corbett said the initiative supported the commitment of both IPF and parent company, Incitec Pivot Limited (IPL), to achieve net zero operational emissions by 2050, or as soon as practicable.

“Our products and services are vital to providing food for the world’s growing population. Increasingly, too, it is essential we assume a leadership role in the world’s transition to a low-carbon economy, and we are embracing the opportunity,” she said.

“To partner with the Big Bag Recovery program and reach the milestone of recovering three million kilograms of plastic bags, demonstrates our focus on reducing the emissions profile of our business and the wider agriculture in-

dustry.”

Through the Big Bag Recovery program, IPL has saved $7.3 million in landfill space by recovering the plastic bags for recycling.

“Our fertiliser bags are collected from farms or dropped off by farmers to local council depots or dealers, and instead of being burned or ending up in landfill they are recycled into new products” Ms Corbett said.

IPL has also recently extended the bag recovery program to ammonium nitrate bulk bags in its explosives business,

Dyno Nobel.

Big Bag Recovery managing director Stephen Richards commended IPF for its leadership.

“The recovery results are fantastic, and we want to encourage others to be as involved as IPF,” he said.

“Around 60,000 tonnes of bag packaging are consumed in Australia each year. This plastic is a resource that can be recycled up to 40 times to create new products.

“For example, a fertiliser bulk bag can be turned into a

school seat in about an hour which can similarly be reharvested and processed into something else.”

Initiated in Queensland with fertiliser bags for the sugar industry in 2015, Big Bag Recovery is now Australia wide for all industries and sectors plastic bags over 15 kg/l of contents. Dealers and customers who purchase products in big plastic sacks and bulk bags can call Big Bag Recovery on 1300 424 422 to find out the best way to deliver their waste bags to the program.

Local avos on show

AVOCADOES from the region were showcased at the World Avocado Congress in New Zealand last week.

Staff from the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries attended the Congress to present information about the department’s high quality supply chain research, development and extension work in avocado farming.

Queensland is Australia’s largest avocado producer, producing around half of the nation’s avocados, with the industry worth $213 million to the State’s economy.

The State’s avocado industry has experienced an average growth of 11 per cent over the past five years, despite challenges faced by the Covid pandemic.

The Congress and associated field trips provide opportunities to speak and collaborate with growers to benefit the Queensland avocado industry.

DAF Principal Supply Chain Horticulturalist

Noel Ainsworth presented the results of a project he recently led aimed at lifting Australian consumer confidence in avocados, involving the monitoring of 179 supply chains over four years.

A major focus of the delegation was on factfinding to continue to improve fruit quality and boost Queensland’s avocado exports in a market that has grown significantly in recent years.

“This is a great opportunity for Queensland avocados to shine on the world stage thanks to the fantastic work of our Department of Agriculture and Fisheries staff,” Minister for Agricultural Industry Development and Fisheries Mark Furner said.

“It’s a chance to share knowledge with industry about processes and practices, all while promoting Queensland avos.

“It’s also a unique and valuable opportunity to learn about international research developments that could boost Queensland’s avocado industry.”

Incitec Pivot Fertilisers has recovered three million kilograms of its own plastic bags since 2015.

ON LANDthe

Sustainable farming new way on the land

AUSTRALIAN farmers are increasingly adopting additional sustainable farming practices as they seek to improve farm productivity while safeguarding their land for future generations.

New data from CommBank reveals a 182 per cent increase in Agri Green Loan inquiries since launching in November 2021, with farmers in New South Wales (+340 per cent) and Victoria (+154 per cent) leading the charge.

Among the many farmers reaping the benefits of regenerative farming are Gippsland farmers Narelle and Mark McDonald, who have run a successful beef on dairy operation complemented by regenerative practices for more than 10 years.

The McDonalds recently used a CommBank Agri Green Loan to support a multi-species pasture renovation program to restore the soil quality on their recently purchased farm, to enhance their business for the long term.

CBA also supported the farm to diversify its income through beef on dairy, which is a practice that addresses a long-standing issue within the dairy industry related to surplus calves.

The McDonalds cross their Friesian dairy cows with Wagyu bulls, which are lighter and make for easier calving. The use of genomic testing has helped to identify the top dairy cows to breed with sexed semen. The first-generation female calves are reared as part of the dairy herd, and the remaining males calves are reared on farm and sold into the beef market.

The regenerative farming philosophy adopted by the McDonalds significantly minimises the use of sprays and fertilisers.

“As dairy farmers, our margins have been eroded over time, so we’ve utilised regenerative farming to reduce our cost of production through the decrease in synthetic inputs,” said Mr McDonald.

“We now manufacture our own organic compost and use occasional supplements in response to our system’s needs to lift the measured health of pastures, which underpins the nutrient density of our produce.

“We’re not just committed to creating a more profitable and productive farm, we are trying to create a better environment, healthier food, and leave something better for the future.”

MAREEBA SALEYARDS

Summary – Tuesday 4 April

• Total yarding 253 head including 3 sold open auction

• Yard Averaged 290.15c/kg or $ 815.31/head

• 6 Bulls averaged 216.5c/kg selling to a top of 228.2c/kg

• 34 Steers averaged 207c/kg selling to a top 234.2c/kg

• 11 Heifers averaged 240.3c/kg selling to a top of 260.2c/kg

• 34 Cows averaged 207c/kg selling to a top of 234.2/kg

• 92 Yearling steers averaged 342.9c/kg selling to a top of 430.2c/kg

• 37 Yearling heifers averaged 259.2c/kg selling to a top of 300.2c/kg

• 8 Yearling micks averaged 293c/kg selling to a top of 306.2c/kg

• 3 + 3 cows and calves @ $1400

Salesyard

Knuth backs gun owners over licensing

MEMBER for Hill Shane Knuth has stood up for local gun owners and is pushing for them to have legal representation at hearings regarding Weapons Licence application refusals.

Mr Knuth was informed by a number of sources that within the past three months, Weapons Licencing submitted objections to QCAT that would see people undergoing weapons licencing appeals not be allowed legal representation.

He is calling on the Minister for Police, Mark Ryan, to instruct Weapons Licensing

to drop its objections. This follows on from recent revelations that revealed wait times within the QPS Weapons Licencing division have hit more than eight months, for licence applications and 46 days to obtain a permit to acquire.

“The Minister basically agreed that appeals to QCAT are legal matters that should follow the letter of the law, yet emphatically said no to withdrawing Weapons Licencing objections to allow average Queenslanders the right to legal representation at these hearings,” Mr Knuth said.

“We have a number of farmers and lawabiding citizens whose weapons licence renewals or new applications appear to be automatically denied.

“However, when applicants in the past appealed to QCAT and had legal representation they were more likely to have the decision overturned.

“Make your own mind up as to why only a few months ago weapons licencing has started objecting to licence applicants receiving legal representation at QCAT hearings.”

Top of the heifer money a/c Brian Greenwood @ 260.2c/kg 380kg.

PHOTO: Mareeba Saleyards.

ABC show amazes with climate program

RECENTLY on ABC TV, a short program came on about global warming. Firstly, it said that the “Little ice age ended in 1888” and that the earth entered a warm period and said that since that time, the Earth had warmed up by 0.8 of one degree.

This is wonderful new and proves beyond doubt that the doomsayers are wrong.

The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) committee has also said that hurricanes, bush fires and floods are no worse but that more people are being affected because the population has increased since 1888. We now have a population of about 25 million in Australia and we had nothing like that in 1888.

The mighty sun controls our climate and we know that the very existence of life on Earth depends on the light from the sun. It warms our seas, generates our weather patterns and gives energy to the growing green plants that provide food and oxygen for life on Earth.

The Australian people are being fooled by the doomsayers and for ABC TV to put this into a program is amazing.

Thanks to who made project a reality

FOLLOWING the recent opening of the Allumbah Heritage Walk in Yungaburra, it is timely to acknowledge several entities and organisations for their support.

To save any embarrassment on my part, I won’t name individuals as for sure I would miss some people out.

Without the great support from Tablelands Regional Council, this community project would never have got to first base, let alone a successful completion.

To Yungaburra Landcare, which was the auspice body, with many volunteers that helped with the sign design and installation.

The Eacham Historical Society in Malanda for their historical knowledge and meticulous fact checking.

To the folks at YAI and the Yungaburra Visitor Information Centre who were enthusiastic with their support.

Finally, a big thank you to Yungaburra Indigenous elders and the many local residents who reminisced and shared their personal memories and experiences on life’s journey.

Our hope is that this community asset will be enjoyed by future generations in the years to come.

Paul Burnell YUNGABURRA

Valid concerns over Voice effectiveness

INDIGENOUS Senator for the Northern Territory Jacinta Nampijinpa Price opposes the Voice for a number of reasons:

There are already eleven indigenous

to the edito r

parliamentarians representing their causes and enough consultation and advisory bodies in place – the most notable being the National Indigenous Australian Agency (NIAA) established in 2019 with the 20222023 budget of close to $ 4.5 billion.

Its team of 1300 is to work closely with indigenous communities to ensure that policies, programs and services address their unique needs.

The purpose is to “enable the self determination and aspirations of First Nations communities. We lead and influence change across government to ensure that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island peoples have a say in the decisions that affect them”.

Senator Price asserts that the referendum is a waste of millions, and predicts that a constitutionally Voice to Parliament will lead to High Court challenges. Her concern is similar to former chairman of the Coalition Government’s Indigenous Advisory Council, Warren Mundine, who feared it will divide Australia and considered a voice enshrined in our Constitution as a Trojan Horse where Australians have no control over laws made under The Voice.

Uschi Lang MAREEBA

Questions over varying waste costs

I WAS reading a story in The Express (15/03/23) titled “Stop the abuse, know the State’s levy charge” and was amazed at Cr Kevin Cardew’s comments.

I have been charged a minimum of $5 for a boot full of domestic and recyclable bottles and never had a “free” one cubic metre acceptance at Mareeba or Clohesy River transfer stations in the Mareeba Shire since charging has been collected at the transfer stations’ gates.

I have always paid what has been asked of me, graciously, as we don’t have a garbage collection where I have lived for 30 years.

My neighbours and myself have always taken our rubbish to the transfer stations and now pay at the gate like all other customers.

I recently dropped off three mattresses and two bed bases to the local transfer station. The weighbridge attendant was very apologetic and explained it was “$31 per mattress – used to be $25 however 100 mattresses were brought in one drop-off, hence the price increase. All the same price at $31 however many mattresses the customers have”.

I was in contact with the Ayr transfer station recently and the young man there told me: “$5 for all mattresses – doesn’t matter how many you have.”

There was no charge on a lot of different rubbish disposals that are charged at Clohesy River and Mareeba transfer stations.

One man at the Mareeba transfer station told me $91 per tonne for solar panels on my enquiry. I turned up in my ute loaded with solar panels only and the lady charged me $5!

Cr Cardew, of Tablelands Regional Council, stated that since 2019, the waste

management and resources strategy for Queensland started the State Government’s waste levy charges.

I ask, why do the services and pricing in whatever shire or local council area a person resides in have such a large difference in costs?

Is the cost of waste fees the shire management’s decisions? When I have enquired, no two shires have had the same price for many items.

The money pressures of the day have made some customers abusive, unacceptably, and the frustration in the pricing at different shire’s transfer stations is understandable, given I have found the pricing of rubbish disposal is not uniform between the districts.

Maybe the State Government could inform local shires for all residences via rate notices as to the price instead of transfer station attendants having to inform customers accordingly.

Vicki Forrester KOAH

Different crossings causing confusion

I’M near on 100 per cent sure that everyone, children included, know what a pedestrian crossing is and specifically how it works. It’s the simplicity of a pedestrian crossing and the wide range of knowledge in the public domain that makes them effective.

In Mareeba, we have four different ways of crossing our streets, pedestrian crossings (zebra crossings), traffic lights, crossing anywhere but at a nominated crossing (probably as safe as zebra crossing) and wombat crossings. There’s no consistency.

As far as I am aware throughout Australia, wombat crossings are raised pedestrian crossings (zebra crossings) that is they should be clearly identified with black and white markings giving pedestrians right of way. Why have our wombat crossings been designed different to what the apparent norm is and that is with the zebra stripes. Problem solved.

I have come across two incidents recently, again. The usual with one, a vehicle stopping at the wombat crossing whilst the other vehicle continues on, and the most ridiculous was at the traffic lights where vehicles in one lane actually stopped on a green light to let pedestrians cross.

The road is a dangerous place and pedestrians have a responsibility to ensure their safety but local authorities might want to give some thought to their irresponsibility.

Sure, they have legislative protection but where you have a problem, the potential for serious injury, and it’s been known for a long time, foreseeability and other factors may not work well in the council favour.

Barry Braes MAREEBA

EDITOR’S NOTE: Byrnes Street, Mareeba, is controlled by The Department of Transport and Main Roads and is not managed by Mareeba Shire Council.

Know where the kids are these school holidays

WITH one more week of school holidays to go, parents, carers and guardians are reminded they need to know where your children are and to ensure they are provided with suitable supervision and activities over the school holidays.

Unfortunately, it is during the school holidays that many of the wilful damage and burglary offences occur within our local schools.

During the school holidays and after school hours, it is an offence to be on school property without the express permission from the school principal.

Any person on school grounds may be found to be trespassing and charged with this offence.

This includes school students, no one should be using the schools as a

“shortcut”, using recreational equipment on school grounds or playing sports on the ovals during the holidays.

Police will continue to perform extra patrols during the last week of holidays around our schools and will have a zero tolerance with respect to persons found to be trespassing on education facilities.

This type of offending costs the QLD community millions of dollars every year and impacts on our local school’s ability to provide quality resources for students for their learning.

Senior Constable Aleda Day is urging members of the community to report any suspicious activity within our schools either through School Watch 13 17 88 or via Policelink on 13 14 44.

PHOTO OF THE WEEK

BY ADRIENNE MEREDITH The thewe was

– Wet.

This little Sunbird was taking advantage of the rain in my Mareeba garden. Taken with a Nikon D500, f6.3 at 1/800 second.

PROPERTY

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

Spacious home in a great location

THIS home is a rare find for any buyer searching for a modern home to accommodate a growing family in maximum comfort. A well-designed floor plan ideal for family living, with perfect big open spaces for the large family to spread out and all enjoy their own space.

Ideally positioned on a spacious 923m2 allotment with dual street access, within walking distance to all amenities and is a perfect opportunity for families wanting a spacious home with the dream backyard, pool, no rear neighbours and so much more.

Features Include;

• Solid rendered block home

• 5 carpeted bedrooms all with built-

in robes

• Master bedroom features an ensuite & a double set of built-in robes

• Media room or 6th bedroom – use as you please

• Spacious air-conditioned open plan living

• Modern kitchen with electric appliances, pantry, breakfast bar, and plenty of bench space.

• Main Bathroom – Plunge bath plus separate shower

• Internal laundry

• Security screens, ceiling fans and plenty of storage space throughout home

• Undercover entertainment patio overlooking rear views – relax with the

22 Main Street, Atherton Phone: 4091 7111

family and entertain in privacy.

• Double remote control garage

• 24 x Solar panels – Save on those electricity bills!

• Large above ground swimming pool

• Garden/storage shed

• 923m2 allotment with a fenced backyard and dual street access

• Located in a quiet street within walking distance to Atherton Town Centre

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

Address: 1 Golflinks Road, ATHERTON

Price: $599,000

Agent: EXCLUSIVE to Raquel Cunzolo Sommerset Realty

Contact: 0408 983 879

Atherton

BUY 1 OR 2 | 140-142 Herberton Road, Atherton CLOSES TOMORROW!

• Set on 4,161m2 across 2 titles

• Option to buy 1 lot or 2

• Lot 1: 1,204m2 - Lot 2: 2,957m2

• 3 bedroom block home - needs work

• 2 bay shed with power + high clearance

• 2nd shed with bathroom and mezzanine

• Town water and sewage

Suzey Whitby 0438 090 306

Margaret Black: Principal

Expressions of Interest close tomorrow, 13th April at 12pm. All offers must be submitted in writing by date & time of closure.

L22091247

CULTIVATION, CATTLE, LOCATION!

Tolga

• Modern 5 bedroom, 2 bath home

• Fertile, arable red soil

• 10 meg groundwater licence

• 4 large machinery sheds

• Fully fenced

• Portable cattle yards

$ P.O.A.

L22275292

Morgan Brennan 0407 730 450

WHAT MORE COULD YOU ASK FOR Upper Barron

• Set on 4.25 hectares

• 4 bedroom, 2 bath modern home

• Large living and dining

• 3 paddocks

• Good fencing

• Sheds and rainwater tank

Offers Invited

L18447858

Morgan Brennan 0407 730 450

www.raywhiteruralatherton.com.au

Renovators delight

A PROPERTY steeped in history, presents a unique opportunity for restoration.

The former Topaz School boasts charming traditional Queenslander features, such as tongue and groove walls and high ceilings.

Situated just 20km from Malanda High School, with the added convenience of a school bus stop at the doorstep.

This is a unique property, the only small acreage nestled amongst prime farmland available in the area.

This property is perfect for families seeking their own slice of paradise.

The home features the following:

Downstairs:

• A practical kitchen with corner pantry

• Comfortable dining area

and living area with large windows

• Bathroom with separate toilet

• Good storage both under the stairs and full linen

• Tiled throughout and exposed rafters

Upstairs:

• 3 bedrooms with potential to reconfigure

• A second bathroom

• Lovely sitting area offering picturesque rural views

• High Ceilings

Outside the property features a 4-bay shed, 3 water tanks, and almost 3 acres of

land bordered by trees providing a private sanctuary.

This affordable rural property is a rare find, the owner is committed elsewhere and ready to sell “as is.” allowing someone the opportunity to do it their way.

A Building and Pest Inspection has been completed and the full report is available upon request.

Contact exclusive listed Agent Michelle Raso on 0428 116 136 for more information.

Address: 3 Union Road, TOPAZ

Price: Offers Invited

Agent: EXCLUSIVE to Michelle Raso Elders Real Estate Malanda

Contact: 0428 116 136

Easy to live in – easy to clean

THIS 3 bedroom home has tiled floors throughout making housework a breeze.

A spacious open plan living area with a generous kitchen, dining, has ceiling fans and is air conditioned for year round comfort.

The master bedroom has an ensuite and all bedrooms have built in wardrobes robes and ceiling fans.

For your peace of mind, the home is fully security screened.

There is double lock up garage and a garden shed for storing all the extras.

Children and pets can play safely in the fenced back yard.

Situated in a quiet culde-sac, this home on 800m² allotment is only minutes to Main Street shopping, the library, swimming pool, bowls club, and the showgrounds.

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

Address: ATHERTON

Price:

$445,000

Agent: Trisha Jackson

Professionals Atherton

Contact: 0419 183 145

PROPERTY

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

Premium easy modern living

If a low maintenance lifestyle and a clean crisp quality built modern home is on your list, this stunning villa is sure to tick your boxes.

Built in 2018 by renowned local builders Superior Steel Homes this exquisite little number is situated on a 400m2 parcel and is built amongst other quality villas alike in an exclusive Strata Estate with low annual fees, welcome to 7 Sommerset

Drive.

Walking into the property you can appreciate the

Open Plan kitchen living and dining with light timber look flooring throughout.

The kitchen boasts ample storage, with the island bench being utilised as a breakfast bar.

Quality appliances are fitted such as a gas cooktop and electric oven and Dishwasher.

From the lounge there is access outside to a cosy tiled Patio with hard landscaping around one side to keep the yard maintenance down and create a beauti-

ful space to sit out and enjoy the snippet of mountains views beyond.

There are 2 bedrooms, the guest bedroom has built ins and a ceiling fan whilst the master bedroom has a walk in wardrobe, air conditioning for comfort and an ensuite with large vanity, toilet and shower.

The main bathroom also boasts a large floating vanity with shower and toilet.

The one car garage is large enough to open all doors and have room to

UNDER CONTRACT

move around or store items.

You can also drive straight through out to the backyard via another roller door. The laundry is in the garage with bench space for laundry items.

There is a side access gate to the backyard also for convenience and the property is fully fenced, making it safe for visitors, children, or fur-babies.

This is truly a special option to call home or to have on your portfolio and certainly one to see to get the

feel of what it has to offer.

The property is currently tenanted at $420.00 per week, please allow 24 hours’ notice minimum for inspections.

Reach out to obtain information regarding Strata and fees associated. It’s the

perfect option and wont last long, get in touch today!

For Further Information or to Organise an Inspection please Contact Exclusive Marketing Agent Hayley Ainsworth on 0475 444 232.

Address: 7 Sommerset Drive, ATHERTON

Price: $399,000

Agent: EXCLUSIVE to Hayley Ainsworth Explore Property

Contact: 0475 444 232

4 CASSIA STREET, YUNGABURRA

• Large 1,587m2 parcel of land

• Privacy from all neighbours

• Located in the renowned Lakeside area

• Solid brick veneer construction

• Great first home or investment

• Established trees and gardens PRICE: OFFERS OVER $500,000

7 SOMMERSET DRIVE, ATHERTON

• 400m2 parcel

• Ultra modern open plan design

• Fully fenced

• Exclusive Strata Estate

• Very low fees annually

• A couple minutes to Atherton CBD

• Great first home, retirement or investment option PRICE: $399,000

COMING SOON ON THE 17TH APRIL

• 987m2 lot in Panorama Views Estate

• Side access to large 2 bay shed

• Modern built 2018 with sleek design

• Well-kept landscaped gardens

• Fireplace and airconditioned throughout

• Spacious master with walk-in robe and ensuite

• Tiled outdoor entertaining area

PRICE: $595,000

15A TOFT STREET, HERBERTON

• Queenslander close to town and no rear neighbours

• Character with polished floors and casement windows

• Verandah with rural views towards the south

• Loads of under house space for entertaining

• Positioned on a private 1,117m2 battle-axe block PRICE: $370,000

2 LARKIN CLOSE, ATHERTON

• Private courtyard / backyard

• Solid masonry block duplex

• Couple of minutes to Atherton CBD

• Existing tenants in place

• Renovation option

• An option to live in one, rent the other

• 808m2 parcel in total

PRICE: $445,000

30 BISCHOFF MILL

ROAD, WATSONVILLE

• Private fully fenced 1 acre

• 10 minutes to Herberton, great for retirees

• Huge living room and mezzanine floor

• 12m x 9m Colorbond shed

• Fruit orchid and 5x 25,000 litre rainwater tanks

• Solar system as well as mains power

PRICE: $349,000

STAGE 5 WATERFRONT

TCE, YUNGABURRA

• 5 Lake Tinaroo waterfront blocks available

• Blocks are between 656m2 to 1,395m2

• All town services, town water and sewerage

• Bitumen Road frontage

• Close to Yungaburra

• Covenants apply

PRICES: START FROM $350,000

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

Your new home is waiting for you

OPEN FOR INSPECTION THIS SATURDAY FROM 10.00AM TO 11.00AM

Malanda lifestyle retreat

MAREEBA

THE possibilities are endless with this versatile 4 bedroom home situated on 4 acres of useable land situated within a short distance from the township of Malanda.

The home lends itself to shared living or offers plenty of space to house a large family. There are 2 large living areas plus a fully enclosed sunroom which offers great views of your paddock.

The home is constructed of solid masonary block on a concrete slab with character injected throughout such as timber clad raked ceiling in living area and timber french doors.

The property includes a steel construction shed which includes a self-contained unit with the possibility of providing accommodation for either family or to rent for additional income.

The house is connected to town water and there are 2 newly installed septic waste water systems.

This property sits within residential zoning and a proposed reconfiguration into residential lots has been drawn up with the plan available to the new buyer should they wish to explore this option.

Features include:

WELL presented and offering everything for the family this generous 4 bedroom home offers all the extras you’ve been looking for and is positioned in a family friendly Estate. All you have to do is move in, relax and enjoy as all the hard work has been done for you.

Features include:

• Generous, tiled & airconditioned plan with multiple living areas

• Freshly painted internally

• Substantial master bedroom with ensuite & WIR

• Bedrooms 2 & 3 with mirrored built-in robes

• 4th bedroom/closable media room

• Spacious central kitch-

en with 2 pac gloss cabinetry, stone bench tops, corner pantry, & dishwasher

• Laundry with built-in cabinetry & hallway storage cupboard

• Tinted windows, s/ screens & blinds throughout

• Substantial tiled patio

• 6m x 7m powered & insulated colourbond shed with lined & air-conditioned room & double roller door access (1 with remote)

• 1100m2 fully fenced &

landscaped corner allotment with side access & only 5 minutes from town centre New to the market & certain to sell quickly –YOUR INSPECTION IS HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!

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

Address: 14 River Drive, MAREEBA

Price: Offers Over $530,000

Agent: EXCLUSIVE to Joe Torrisi Joe Torrisi Real Estate

Contact: 0417 700 468

• 4 bedrooms

• 2 separate living areas

• Open plan kitchen, dining, lounge incorporating a pot belly stove

• Modern kitchen with large pantry, dishwasher, rangehood

• 2 separate bathrooms in house + 1 in shed

• 10 kw solar panels

• Internal laundry

• Office/gym room

• Mud room

• Enclosed veranda/living

space on 3 sides with views

• Double carport

• Security screens

All round great property with stunning views wher-

ever you look, book your private inspection now with Exclusive Marketing Agent Collette Rowston from Raine & Horne Atherton. 0419 733 712

Address: 49 Hillcrest Road, MALANDA

Price: $698,000

Agent: EXCLUSIVE to Collette Rowston Raine & Horne Atherton

Contact: 0427 779 086

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

Peace and serenity in lush bushland

PROPERTY

By the lake

IT’S rare that you find an established block of land this close to the lake. Everything is ready to go for you, even the shed!

Positioned in a sort after location, this property is the perfect combination of private bushland whilst still being close to the lake & boat ramp.

You truly get the best of both worlds.

Set on 9,062m2 (approx. 2.2 acres), giving you plenty of room to build your dream property.

The current owners have already established a 12m x 9m 2 bay shed which includes one high clearance door perfect for storing the caravan or boat.

Other improvements include a house pad with driveway and builders’ pole with power connected.

Features:

• Set on 9,062m2 (2.2 acres*)

• 12m x 9m colorbond

shed

• High clearance roller door

• House pad w/ driveway

• Builder’s pole w/ power connected

• Water connected

• Partially fenced

• Close to Lake Tinaroo & boat ramp

• Heaps of potential for your dream home

This property is being sold by Expressions of Interest –therefore a price guide cannot be given.

Expressions of Interest close 12pm, Thursday 4th May 2023. All EOI’s must be submitted in writing by the time & date of closing.

Contact Exclusive agent Suzey Whitby at Ray White Atherton today on 0438 090 306 for further information. http://raywhiteruralatherton.com.au/L22263887

Address: 5-7 Black Gully Road, TINAROO

Price: Expressions of Interest

Agent: EXCLUSIVE to Suzey Whitby Ray White Atherton

Contact: 0438 090 306 or 4091 7111

PRICE: $195,000

Exclusive Agent Zach Reid 0427 683 023

Located

only a short drive from Atherton’s main street, you’ll nd this renovator’s delight. Bene tting from a huge 1,619m² block of land, this home started life as a timber cottage, however the rigours of age have caught up with it. In the backyard we nd a 8m x 9m block studio which could be the perfect canvas for a workshop or even converted into a granny at with ease.

south-west of Cairns and a little over an hour from Cairns International Airport, this stunning 46.52Ha (120 cre) property sits 700m above sea level on the scenic and fertile central region of the Atherton Tablelands.

house, plus a large shed

paddocks and sturdy concrete water troughs

berth house boat, originally run as “Tinaroo Tropical Houseboats” a popular local business,

tractor, Kubota buggy and lawn tractor, cattle feeders, handling equipment and yards.

Modern family home in a quiet estate

HAVE you been looking for a modern family sized home in a quiet estate? Then this may be the property for you.

Welcome to 12 Eli Close Mareeba!

With a floor plan of over 245m2, this home really has all the space your family will need!

The home consists of four bedrooms and two bathrooms, with an open plan kitchen and dining/family area and a spacious lounge/ living room, all in a layout that will allow you to spread out and not be in each other’s pockets.

The bedrooms all feature ceiling fans and carpet flooring which has been recently replaced.

The master bedroom is very private at the rear of the home, super spacious and has the benefits of an ensuite and walk-in wardrobe as well as air-conditioning.

Two of the other rooms are away from the master, they feature built-in wardrobes and one is also airconditioned. The fourth room is a little smaller and is perfect for a younger child, or an office/study and positioned at the front of the home.

The kitchen and living areas are all have tiled floors for easy maintenance.

The galley style kitchen features lots of cupboard and bench space and there is a breakfast bar as well. With the air-conditioned dining/family room close by, preparing and serving meals will be a breeze! The spacious lounge/living room is huge and it is separate to the other living areas, perfect for the kids to stretch out and watch a movie while the parents continue chatting in the dining room.

The kitchen, dining and lounge rooms all have sliding glass door access to the rear patio which is tiled and again has heaps of space for those family get-togethers being approximately 30m2.

The bathroom and laundry are convenient to the secondary bedrooms, the bathroom has a separate shower and bathtub and the toilet is separate as well, perfect for families.

The laundry also features custom cabinetry giving you extra storage and bench space where you need it.

Outside, the property has been thoughtfully land-

scaped and the established gardens and multiple fruit trees mean you can just move straight in and start living!

The exterior of the home has also been recently repainted, keeping up the maintenance and keeping the home fresh for many years to come. With a large property on the rear boundary and an easement over the back fence you also have the benefit of no rear neighbours!

Features include:

• Large family home over 245m2 floor area

• Four bedrooms, two bathrooms

• Large master with ensuite and walk-in wardrobe

• Air-con to two bedrooms, kitchen and dining/ family room

• Spacious modern kitchen with heaps of cupboards

• Tiled living areas, new carpet to bedrooms

• Large lounge/living room, huge patio

• Security screens, recently re-painted exterior

• Established gardens, huge rear patio

• Low maintenance 800m2 allotment

• Side access, fenced rear yard

• Family friendly neighbourhood, cul-de-sac living

For more information, or to book your own private inspection call exclusive agent Remo Esposito on 0401 969 473.

Address: 12 Eli Close, MAREEBA

Price: $525,000

Agent: EXCLUSIVE to Remo Esposito Central Realty Mareeba

Contact: 0401 969 473 or 4092 2232 Vince

Karen Ranie 0458 408 540

EXPRESS

TAKE A BREAK

BIG WORD SEARCH CROSSWORD

can hear or be heard (7)

19 informal word for food (4)

20 a small printed advertisement or other notice distributed by hand (8)

22 not able to be recovered, regained, or remedied (13)

Down

1 the sixth month of the year (4)

2 to introduce air into something, eg, a lawn (6)

3 adopt or support a cause, belief, or way of life (7)

4 a trap for catching birds or mammals, typically one having a noose of wire or cord (5)

5 descend from a train, bus, or other form of transport (6)

SUDOKU

Across

7 standard, pure, or correct English speech or usage (6,7)

8 to argue or discuss a subject in excessive detail. (8)

9 a system of electronic credit transfer used in Europe and Japan, involving banks, post offices, and public utilities (4)

10 to cause a strong or violent force to be released or become unrestrained (7)

12 to store something safely in a hidden or secret place (5)

14 drag or trail something through water (5)

16 the range or distance over which one

Enter

Puzzle Solutions

6 a type of strong black coffee made by forcing steam through ground coffee beans (8)

11 situated in the north, or directed towards or facing the north (8)

13 a basket, especially one of a pair carried by a beast of burden (7)

15 a puritanical or censorious person, in particular a teetotaller or person opposed to alcohol (6)

17 a tunnel under a road for use by pedestrians (6)

18 intense or violent pain and struggle, especially accompanying birth, death, or great change (5)

21 a characteristic rising and falling of the voice when speaking (4)

WEEKLY HOROSCOPES

Mar 21 - Apr 19

This week, a seed of opportunity can be planted. A friend might show their shadown side to you, a decision whether this revelation is going to affect your friendship is up to you. Later in the week ride the wave of energy towards manifesting your ambition.

JUN 21 - JUL 22

This week, obstacles are disappearing. Things that were stopping you even as recently as yesterday seem to dissolve. Hesitation you felt and even the blocks others were imposing are going. What you thought were your limitations are nothing more than

sep 23 - oct 22

This week, you’re looking for adventure. You have the chance to travel but also to be a trail blazer metaphorically. As Tolkien said ‘The Road goes ever on and on Out from the door where it began. Now far ahead the Road has gone, Let others follow it who can!’’.

Dec 22 - Jan 19

This week, you’re ready to take on challenges. You could have a realisation about your routines (or lack thereof) that are causing issues in your life. Now is a great time to make small changes that will have lasting effects. You could feel connection to your family line.

apr 20 - may 20

This week, you’re making new plans for something great. You could be ready to completely transform your finances, maybe that recent spending spree is making you re-evaluate your methods for attaining that long term goal. Later in the week, you’ll be extra lucky.

JUL 23 - AUG 22

This week, you’re getting a helping hand. When you need help you will find a friend ready to step up. This is a time to allow someone to see that you have vulnerable moments. You will find your friendship strengthened by this. You might see the big picture

oct 23 - nov 21

This week, you’re inspired to take the road to wealth. You might be quite focused on creating some passive income. This interest could change the way you spend money as well and your attitude about finances in general. It’s a great time to take a long term view.

Jan 20 - Feb 18

This week, something wonderful is blossoming. Whether searching, newly together or loved up, sensual delights are on the cards. Deep connection, open, vulnerable and exploring together. Remember ideas aren’t limited by external gatekeepers, manifest it.

May 21 - Jun 20

This week, you gain new understanding of something important. One new idea can change how you see and interact with the world. You could have an eye-opening experience that will help you ‘reframe’ your perception. You might connect with the right

Aug 23 -Sep 22

This week, you’re stepping into the sunlight. You might generally keep a low profile but maybe it’s a good time to step out and be noticed. Change is difficult but worth it. Good things can’t find you if you’re hiding from them. Whatever that looks like, find the joy.

nov 22 - dec 21

This week, someone could rock your world. Chemistry between you and someone new could lead to learning lessons that have been many years in the making. Many possibilities for inner growth, it’s time to begin applying what you know and learn more.

Feb 19 - Mar 20

This week, you’re breaking free of a family pattern. You could recognise that you can go a different way than your parents did. You’re realising that you’ve done so much in the past just to please others, it’s time to make your own way. You will be supported completely.

PRESBYTERIANS meet in Mareeba for worship each Sunday 10am, QCWA Hall, Wilkes Street (behind Meals on Wheels) ALL WELCOME!

John Albert

George Brooks

15.10.1941 to 28.03.2023

We are sad to communicate the passing of John Brooks, formerly of Morrish Road, Julatten, North Queensland.

John was loving Husband to Esther, supportive Father to Robert and George and proud Grandfather of Joe and Luka.

A hard working humble man with many loyal friends, he had a full life and was enjoying his retirement years on the family farm in Julatten. Health became his biggest challenge in recent years, and it finally beat him. John’s last wishes were simply “please no public funeral, no flowers and no fuss”.

The family is focusing on the future and maintaining the legacy of the Julatten farm, which he shared with his Wife for over four decades.

He had a great life and to honour his memory, please take a minute to recall one of the happy times you shared with John.

PETS

ANIMAL OF THE WEEK

NAME:

DOB:

Kona

31/05/22

BREED: Staffy x Cattle

I am a very affectionate young male with a beautiful nature. I love water & people.

I am great with kids, cats and dogs. I haven’t met chickens yet! I come vet checked, vaccinated, microchipped, desexed, wormed and flea & tick treated.

If you would like to meet KONA - please call 0487430443

PUREBRED Blue Cattle dog pups. 4F, 2M, 7 wks old $500 PH: 4096 4138

BIN:0011927978591

FOUND, near the Gunnawarra turn off. One Easter Egg and 1/2 Cherry Ripe. Delicious, Thank you.

G. Congdon

IN LOVING MEMORY Antonio Ricci

21.5.29 ~ 18.4.2019

We thought of you today of all the things we used to do, Those very very special memories that only we all knew. The times we spent together are always on our mind, We thank you for just being there, you were very special, just one of a kind.

From loving wife Margaret and sons Lee & Julian and grandchildren Craig, Brenton & Shahnee.

561

0421830923

• Husqvarna 246 Zero Turn Mower $4000

• Honda HRU196 Easystart Mower $500

• Vintage Timber School desk

• Door and Window Flyscreens

• Various Chairs

PHONE: 4092 5225 or 0407 925 225

Auto,

$20,500 ONO • P: 4097 2452

PRELOVED CLOTHES FOR SALE

Some still with tags and never worn.

Prices Range From $5 to $40 Eftpos Available! Call or txt 0408 488 777

PUBLIC NOTICE

Notice of Annual General Meeting

Of the Torimba Cultural and Festival Association Inc.

Thursday 20th of April @ 6.00pm Festival Hall, Grigg Street, Ravenshoe

TEX GUN SUPPLIES

Advises customers with outstanding fees for storage and repairs, your goods will be sold to recover costs unless contacted within 28 days.

PHONE: 07 4095 5383

TRUCK & EQUIPMENT SERVICE CO PTY LTD is seeking a permanent, full time junior parts interpreter to join our team in Tolga (TRANSPARES).

Junior Parts Interpreter (Full Time)

ABOUT THE ROLE

This is a role that would suit someone with an interest in heavy diesel vehicles and machinery.

You would be carrying out the following duties:

• Supply of parts to a busy workshop, over the phone and counter sales

• Assisting with stock-takes and basic warehouse work

• Deliveries and pick-ups of parts

• Keeping work environment in a safe and clean condition

• Data entry, phone and computer use

ABOUT YOU

The right candidate will be enthusiastic and have a willingness to learn.

• Reliable and strong work ethic with the ability to work as part of a team

• Excellent customer service

• Ability to work in a fast pace environment whilst able to multi-task and prioritise

• Intermediate level of computer and phone abilities

• Previous experience in a similar role advantageous but not a necessity Candidates who have an interest or experience dealing with mechanical parts who do not meet above requirements, are still encouraged to apply. T&E are flexible for the right applicant LICENSE & QUALIFICATIONS

• Current Manual Driver’s licence

• Forklift Licence (desirable)

The ability to start immediately would be highly regarded.

Please email all resumes and cover letters through to: rossg@truckeq.com.au

Or contact us today on 07 4035 1610 for further details.

Grazing and Water Quality Project Officer

The Grazing and Water Quality Project Officer will work with relevant project staff and land managers to deliver property action plans and on-ground works contracts for projects being delivered on Cape York Peninsula grazing properties and all reef related activities including but not limited to the Reef Assist 2.0 gully remediation and training project.

● Amazing opportunity to work in Cape York Peninsula

● Permanent Full Time (75 Hours Fortnight)

● Salary is $73,219 - $79,263 Per Annum including 5 weeks annual leave, plus 17.5% leave loading plus 10.5% superannuation guarantee

● Cooktown or Cairns (by negotiation) with regular travel

Applicants must apply via our website using the application kit found here: https://capeyorknrm.com.au/about/vacancies

Applications close 5.00pm, Friday 21 April, 2023.

2016 TOYOTA COROLLA ASCENT SPORTS HATCH

silver, 95,000 klms, RWC, 6mths rego, regularly serviced, new tyres, extras incl. dash mat, boot liner, floor mats, light bar, headlight and bonnet protectors, very good condition.

DIGITAL CONTENT CREATOR

Do you love everything about the digital world? Are you a creative type who loves producing fun and engaging content? This fun, new role could be for you!

Make this role your own – working with a wider team you can use your creative flair and skills to produce engaging content for a variety of digital platforms.

• Attractive and competitive wage

• Fun team environment

• Drive content creation for a two locally owned and independent newspapers in FNQ

• Flexibility to work from home and office and structure your own working hours.

• No day will be the same, always new projects and content

The perfect role for someone with videography and digital content creation skills, looking to join a hardworking team in the newspaper industry.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and execute content for social media platforms that align with Portasea Group’s brand values

• Create the following to promote the newspapers and engage with audiences:

- Weekly interactive content

- User-generated content - Behind the scenes content

• Write compelling copy and create photos/videos for social media platforms and websites

• Work closely with our team to create weekly content that showcases their experiences with our brand

• Collaborate with the editorial team and other departments to ensure consistent messaging and branding across all platforms

• Analyse and report on social media metrics and adjust the content strategy as needed to improve engagement and reach

• Stay up to date with social media trends and best practices

• Drone operation for content

• Recording, filming, and editing of video clips

• Video editing and production

In order to be successful in this role, you will need:

• Ability to work under pressure in a fast-paced environment and meet tight deadlines

• Experience in content creation for social media platforms

• Demonstrated experience with filming video clips

• Proficiency with photography/videography specifically for social media channels

• Excellent writing, editing and proofreading ability

• Ability to work independently and collaborate with a team

• Strong attention to detail

• Excellent communication, both verbal and written

• Passion and energy within the role - desire to create innovative, engaging and exciting work

If you have the experience and passion to succeed in this position, please apply immediately. Please have a link to your current portfolio of work ready to provide during the interview process.

Contact Carl Portella at: director@portasea.com.au

Applications close Friday April 14, 2023.

NEIGHBOURHOOD CENTRE COORDINATOR

Ravenshoe Community Centre Inc.

(Ravenshoe Community Centre is a community based neighbourhood centre managed by a Collective of members and elected Office Bearers)

We are currently seeking the services of a suitably qualified and experienced person to:

• Undertake the duties of the Neighbourhood Centre Coordinator in the delivery of community development, compliance and other relevant and appropriate activities

• Develop and empower communities through facilitating the active participation of people in addressing issues that affect them collectively

• Contribute to the operational objectives of our Neighbourhood Centre Community Support program

• Ensure that the stated outcomes or objectives of the position and the organisation are achieved

The successful applicant will work under our Neighbourhood Centre Community Program as a member of a team with co-workers, paid and unpaid.

This position is permanent fulltime at 38 hours per week, and provides an opportunity for a person with comprehensive knowledge of requirements relevant to this area of work, to undertake responsibility for the position.

Essential Qualifications and Experience:

• A Degree in Management, Community Development, Social Work or Community Services Management is essential with substantial years of relevant experience

Pay: Level 5 SCHCDS industry award 2010, with options for salary sacrifice

For an application package including selection, criteria contact: The Human Resource Officer Ravenshoe Community Centre Inc.

3 Bolton Street, Ravenshoe 4888

Email: hro@ravcom.org.au

Ph: 07 4097 6726 | Fax: 07 4097 6030

Closing Date: COB, Friday 28th April, 2023.

Careers with Queensland Health

Operational Services Officer

Location: Ravenshoe

Remuneration: $28.04 - $30.40 per hour

Duties/Abilities:

• Maintain a high standard of cleaning services throughout the Health Service with a particular emphasis on Infection Control specifications.

• Undertake light and heavy cleaning duties in high and low areas, including walls, windows, ceilings, furniture and fittings, and dusting, vacuuming and polishing.

• Maintain cleanliness of outside areas as required.

• Clean and maintain equipment to the standards in the procedure manual.

• Assist with relevant documentation and collection of data.

• Maintain a working level of stock.

• Remove waste from designated work area to maintain a safe and hygienic work environment.

• Practice high levels of communication and interpersonal skills to create and foster team spirit within a multidisciplinary environment.

• Participate in educational and in-service programs to build and update knowledge.

• Prioritise immediate tasks to provide support services of a high standard.

Enquiries: Sarah-Jane Cameron

Job Ad Reference: CAH480975

Closing Date: Thursday, 20 April 2023

You

OFFICER

Casual Position

(Approx 20 hrs/week, flexible days)

Located in Mareeba

WORK SKILLS TRAINEE

Full Time (37.5 hrs/week)

6 months fixed contract Located in Mareeba

For more information and to apply, go to: gulfsavannahnrm.org/employment

Applications Close: 9am, Monday 17 April, 2023.

YOUR LOCAL CLASSIFIEDS

Sustainable Industries Officer

This position will work with Cape York region farmers, graziers and peak industry bodies (with a focus on the Lakeland agricultural area and the north western Cape) to improve the sustainability and productivity of farming systems and improve the condition of natural resources.

A key focus area is on improving Great Barrier Reef water quality through encouraging and documenting voluntary improvement in soil, nutrient and pesticide management. Water use efficiency and targeted pest and weed management are also focus areas.

● Amazing opportunity to work in Cape York Peninsula

● Permanent Full Time (75 Hours Fortnight)

● Salary is $73,219 - $79,263 Per Annum including 5 weeks annual leave, plus 17.5% leave loading plus 10.5% superannuation guarantee

● Cooktown or Cairns (by negotiation) with regular travel

Applicants must apply via our website using the application kit found here: https://capeyorknrm.com.au/about/vacancies

Applications close 5.00pm, Friday 21 April, 2023.

SPORT

Gymnasts jump to success at state

Malanda triathlete takes on the world

A MALANDA man will test himself against some of the best triathletes in the world after he was named the 20-24 age group Australian standard distance triathlon champion in Moolooaba recently and earned a ticket to compete at the world championships in Spain later in the year.

20-year-old Rohan Hickey has been competing in triathlons since he was nine years old, following in his mother’s footsteps who is an avid racer. Now a decade on from his first experience, he will be off to Spain in over 22-24 September for the World Triathlon Age-Group Championships.

Rohan’s first triathlon was at Lake Tinaroo and he has since competed in close to 100 triathlons across the country including a few national championships and even a short distance world championship in 2018.

“I really enjoy competing, the training and the racing and I have lots of friends who do it as well,” he said.

For this year’s world championships Rohan,

will be racing standard distance which is a 1.5km swim, followed by a 40km bike and finishing with a 10km run.

Rohan qualified for the worlds after coming first in the 20-24 age group at Australian Standard Distance Triathlon Championship held in Moolooaba in March, his highest achievement to date.

He said his love for triathlon’s begun to grow after he qualified for a school national competition in 2018.

“It was a bit of a surprise to win at Moolooaba, I didn’t think I would win it,” he said.

“Last year I was in the opens category and I didn’t do as well, granted I didn’t train as much but this year I decided to give age groups a go.”

In the lead up to the Australian Championships Rohan would be training roughly 10 hours a week with a 3km swim, an 8-14km run and a 40-50km bike ride.

Rohan said the main thing that really pushed him to compete and win was his love for the sport.

Cross country champions

EIGHT young talented Mareeba Gymnasts recently competed at the Senior State Championships in Brisbane – one of the biggest competitions of the year.

Angelina Tulloch (14 years Level 7 Under 15), Addyson Hampton (12 years Level 7 Under 13 years) Natalia Esposito (14 years Level 7 under 15) and Brydie Genge (aged 17 years Level 9 Open) competed for the ladies this year, with Angelina coming sixth on bars and Natalia coming fifth on vault.

For the boys it was Andrew Hawthorn (18 years Level 7 Open), Myles Dobbs Brown (15 years Level 7 Open), Oliver Hampton (15 years Level 7 Open) and Frank Tulloch (aged 17 years Level 8 Open) who competed in the arena with Oliver coming 5th on floor and second in vault whilst Mareeba’s champion Frank Tulloch came first on floor and vault and third on rings.

Oliver and Frank have since been selected to go onto the next level of competition where Oliver will represent Queensland on the MAG Level 7 Border Challenge Team and Frank joining the Level 8 State Team.

Coaching director Kelly Tulloch was proud to see her crew come so far in the competition and said it is a testimony to their dedication in the lead up.

“These gymnasts trained 10.5 hours per week which is half the hours that most of their competitors would have been training,” she said.

and so happy for them as they continue to rise to the challenges of competition. It is not easy to step into the gymnastics arena with a lot of people watching down on them as they only get once change to perform a routine which they have trained so hard for.”

Dedicated to his gymnastics, Frank has been working harder than ever before in the lead up to the state championships and is proud to be representing Queensland in May.

With new goals set in stone, he is prepared to head on to the national championship with the lessons he learned from states behind him.

achieve my best competing in such a high level environment fuels my hunger and determination to set and achieve new goals.

“Finishing first automatically qualified me for the state team which will allow me to work alongside the best gymnast in the state to proudly represent Queensland at the Australian Gymnastics Championships.

“In preparation for the Australian Gymnastics Championships my focus will be in the gym training harder than ever to make Mareeba and Queensland proud.”

TO kick off the school holidays, students from St Stephen’s Catholic College and Malanda State High School took the track for the annual inter-school cross country.

Although tough, participants put in their all to make it over the finish line, with the winners now preparing for the district cross country event in Yungaburra in May.

ST STEPHEN’S CATHOLIC COLLEGE AGE CHAMPIONS

12 years: Harley Sweeper, Holly Radcliffe

13 years: Len Davies, Lara Chambers

14 years: Harrison Roos, Sophie Loudon

15 years: Elli Smith, Madeline Radcliffe

16 years: Dominic Serafini. Chloe Donovan

Opens: Cayden Gauci, Natalie Millerd

MALANDA STATE HIGH SCHOOL

AGE CHAMPIONS

12 years: Sarah Polijee, Harrison Roos

13 years: Jacinta Teehan, Caden Allen

14 years: Bronte Grose, Jonty Cortts

15 years: Rachel Kidcaff, Beau Evans

16 years: Erika Koelman, Flynn Hyde

17 years: Paige Grose, Alistair Hickey

Opens: Teesha Potts, Harvey Horan

“I have seen these kids grow up in the gym, as I have coached them all from a young age. I guide them as they put in the hard work to make themselves better athletes.

“I am so proud of them all,

“State championships was a great experience as I was exposed to many talented gymnast across the state which allowed me to make new lifelong friends within the sport,” he said.

“With my competitive nature, to always strive and

Frank will compete at Carrara Stadium, Gold Coast from 7-13 May this year whilst his team mate Oliver will be representing Queensland as an individual and a team member at the Queensland Border Challenge Competition in Brisbane from 24-29 June.

Cricketing legends to visit cape

LOCALS will have the chance to rub shoulders with Australian cricket royalty at the Musgrave Super 8s Cricket Carnival due to be held over the May Day long weekend.

Cricketing legends Doug Walters and Jeff Thomson will be attending this year’s carnival hosted at the iconic and heritage listed Musgrave Roadhouse.

Teams from the cape will do battle with Ta-

blelands sides over the weekend long cricket carnival from Saturday, 29 April until Monday 1 May.

Camping and alcohol will be available and there will be a barbecue dinner and memorabilia auction on the Saturday night.

Members of the public are encouraged to come along and watch the social match be played in front of the iconic Musgrave Roadhouse.

Malanda triathlete Rohan Hickey was recently crowned an Australian triathlon champion. Photo by Sportograf.

Holly Radcliffe, Len Davies, Lara Chambers, Harley Sweeper, Harrison Roos, Eli Smith, Dominic Serafini, Chloe Donovan from St Stephen’s Catholic College.

Natalia Esposito, Addyson Hampton and Angelina Tulloch spent hours preparing for the state championships.

Mareeba male gymnasts Oliver Hampton, Myles Dobbs Brown, Andrew Hawthorn and Frank Tulloch and competed at the state championships with pride.

Wheel and walk into basketball

BASKETBALLERS who may have lost their spring or want to see a different side of the sport are encouraged to come along to try wheelie and walking basketball at the Atherton State High School community hall on Wednesday nights.

The Atherton Basketball Association is hosting two new social competitions on Wednesdays at the school hall, walking basketball and wheelchair basketball.

The idea for the new competition initially came after the association was given a slot on a Wednesday night to host another competition.

The two new competitions give players who may not be able to run or jump like they used to the opportunity to still enjoy the sport they love.

President of the Atherton Basketball Association Helen Nawaqa said if players are able bodied, they can still try wheelie basketball.

“We do have some interest from people who are able bodied who think it would be fun to see another side of bas-

ketball,” she said.

“It would be awesome to get two teams on the court and a good social environment would be fantastic.

“We really want to increase accessibility of basketball to the wider Atherton community.”

The association has 10 club chairs available for wheelie basketball and players are encouraged to bring their own sport wheelchairs if they have one available.

The competition will run over term two and three of the school year, 10 weeks each starting from 19 April and 12 July.

The competition is set to start next Wednesday 19 April and players are required to be a member of the association to play.

To register for either wheelie or walking basketball head to the Atherton Basketball Association website.

For more information around the new social competitions send an email to athertonbasketballassociation@ gmail.com

Locals show out at Survivor Golf Series

THE Millaa Millaa Golf Course was in immaculate condition ahead of round seven and eight of the annual Drummond Golf Survivor Series recently as a local team took out the latter round in style and secured their place in the finals.

The highly popular Drummond Golf Survivor Series is a new two-person Ambrose elimination series that gives golfers a fast-paced alternative to traditional golf.

Golfers travel to courses dotted around Australia vying for a “golden ticket”, their entry to the finals of the series that is due to be held in Port Douglas in December.

After a day of pre-tournament fun on Friday, March 31 with a 9-hole skins and night putting competitions, the teams arrived at Millaa Millaa to some inclement weather but a cracking sunrise to start off round 7.

Anticipation was high for this first qualifier of the Drummond Golf Survivor Series with two back-to-back rounds taking place over the weekend.

Round 7 saw a full field of golfers ready to tackle the tricky 9-hole layout.

Getting off to an early flyer was team, Last Minute.Com who literally entered the tournament at 5.30am, the golfers were -4 under their handicap after 9 holes.

With three holes to go there were six teams in contention for the golden ticket but it was Craig IIsley and Paul Forrester from Team Last Minute. Com who continued their early morning form by making two birdies out of the last holes.

The boys played a calculated round by using the strength of Paul Forresters drive as he drove the ball over 300 metres and the delicate putting of Craig, making the perfect combination.

It was a match made in tablelands heaven finishing with the sort after score of Net -10 under, securing their spot in the grand final at Port Douglas.

Round 8 was another sold out afternoon field and saw a fresh set of golfers ready to tackle the undulating mini paradise of Milla Millaa.

A very tight tussle with close scores again all the way to the finish, with five holes to play there were five teams tied with the lead, four of which were Tablelands based – two teams then jumped out of the pack, team Millaa Millaa Gorillas and team Migaloo.

In a very intense finish, it was Mark Twomey and Ashley Healy of Team Millaa Millaa Gorillas birdied their last two holes including Ash sinking a 25 footer to take out the Golden Ticket and booking themselves into the Port Douglas Grand Final.

Ange Willett, Helen Nawaqa and Meg Nawaqa are encouraging people to get involved in Atherton Basketball Association’s newest social competitions wheelie and walking basketball.

Drummond Golf Survivor Series round seven winners Last Minute. Com.