The Express Newspaper 15th February 2023

Tinaroo Falls Dam has reached 100 per cent capacity, flowing over the dam wall on Friday much to the interest of locals who stopped at the base of the dam wall to witness the spill, the first time since 2019. It comes as no surprise, given the heavy rainfall that has fallen in the region so far this year, with Atherton recording 566mm in January – 200mm more than the last two years – and another 200mm in the first 11 days of February. Walkamin has recorded 160mm to date this month, while Mareeba has had 120mm.

New principals take the lead

The region has welcomed new principals to three local schools, Ms Knight-Smith, Mr Rivett and Mr Vaughan, all ready to make a difference in the top role. The Express’ Ellie Fink spoke to the leaders to find out what their big plans were for the 2023 school year.

ATHERTON STATE HIGH SCHOOL

ATHERTON State High School has welcomed new principal Leanne Knight-Smith, who’s goal is to make the biggest school on the Tablelands one of the most welcoming.

Moving from the humidity of Townsville to the coolness of the Tablelands, Ms Knight-Smith has dedicated the past 30 years to education.

Looking for a change in scenery and a new challenge, she made the move to Atherton High and has already fallen in love with the school’s community.

“My husband and I have had many holidays up here and

BIBOOHRA STATE PRIMARY SCHOOL

I have driven past the school a few times and thought ‘wouldn’t this be a great place to work’ so I applied (to be the principal) and was thrilled when I was accepted,” she said.

“I think rural schools just offer so much and they're welcoming and community base and I'm all about building really strong partnerships within communities.

“The kids are beautiful. There are so many wonderful country kids and rural kids and they've got a beautiful way about them and they're just eager to learn and be really good people.”

So far, some of Ms KnightSmith’s

WITH a decade of experience as a principal behind him, Max Rivett has taken on the top role at Biboohra State School.

Taking up the position as principal at the beginning of the year, Mr Rivett has already received a warm welcome from the school and the community.

Coming from Rossville State School, he knows the importance of small community schools and is excited to get to know the Biboohra “family” more.

“I love small schools and I love the connections that you get to make with parents, students, staff and broader community,” he

ST STEPHEN’S CATHOLIC COLLEGE

DEDICATED and passionate about catholic education, Simon

biggest highlights are the agricultural program the school’s offers to students, the friendliness of the community and area which she can now call her home.

Ms Knight-Smith said she is already loyal to the school and hopes to stick around for a very long time and already has a vision of what Atherton High will look like in the next few years.

“Walking into the school you can already tell it is a very special place and I look forward to making it even better.”

With 20 years in education behind him, Mr Rivett is excited to bring new ideas into the school and help it grow.

Some of the upcoming events he is in the process of organising is the student leader badge ceremony and a Harmony Day event.

said.

“The school is very much the heart of the community here – small schools are great.

“(One of the biggest highlights so far) has been meeting the kids and meeting the people who make the school.

Vaughan has filled the seat as principal at St Stephen’s Catholic College with plans to fulfil the values of the college.

Taking over the role from Kerry Manders, Mr Vaughan will be acting as principal for the next six months with hopes to take on the long-term role when the position goes out in March.

Being deputy principal at the school for the past four years and teaching for the past 21 years, he is passionate about being a strong and collaborative leader to his students and staff.

“I am surrounded by a really good team and having that good team makes decision making a lot easier,” he said.

“Being at the college for the past five years I know the pro-

“I would like the bring the school up more and I have heard so many things about Biboohra being an excellent foundation for students as they travel through their education journey,” he said.

“I would like to ensure that continues and I would like to ensure we maintain our reputation and our expectations.”

cesses and expectations and being the deputy principal has allowed me to have some insight into what a principal role looks like, making the transition a lot easier.”

Mr Vaughan is passionate about delivering opportunities for his school in the time he is principal, with a variety of projects already underway.

“We have a huge range of things going on from a master plan perspective including a new admin refurbish and then after that it will be full steam ahead in terms of our innovation centre – we have architects working on it at the moment,” he said.

“(The innovation centre) will be primarily around STEM and STEAM – STEAM being the

same as STEM except the ‘A’ is the agricultural aspect.

“Obviously (centres) don’t get built in six months but hopefully being a part of that and getting the ball rolling will be really good.”

Council customers happy with service

MORE than 18,000 customer requests were dealt with by Tablelands Regional Council in 12 months, a report has revealed.

The report sought to inform councillors as to how customer requests were handled and the process currently in place to ensure residents were kept up to date with the outcome of the requests.

Local traffic, road issues on the radar

SEVERAL road and traffic issues including road widening for Springmount Road, a new drop off zone for St Thomas’ School, an upgrade to the Kmart to Coles pedestrian crossing are all being discussed in high level conversations between Mareeba Shire Council and the Department of Transport and Main Roads.

Council’s Traffic Advisory Committee (TAC) meets regularly with the Department of Transport and Main Roads, local police and other stakeholders where traffic issues and upcoming works are discussed.

Complaints by truck drivers travelling the small, windy Springmount Road outside of Mareeba sparked widening works to commence on the route.

Many heavy vehicles that travel through the road to deliver to the Tableland Sugar Mill have been fined by police for driving over the middle white lines.

TAC chair Kevin Davies said the na-

ture of the road meant many truck drivers were forced to drive over the middle lines lest they found themselves off the road.

Construction was scheduled for this January, however due to the current wet weather, the works have been delayed.

“Preliminary works have been done there but it is too wet at the moment,” Cr Davies said.

“The narrowness of the road is causing issues especially for the sugar mill and other heavy vehicles traveling the road.

“You cannot go around the corners without crossing the lines.”

Council has also sought funding through the department for several projects around St Thomas’ School in Mareeba including improved lighting for a pedestrian crossing and a new drop-off zone.

The drop-off zone is still in the design phase but it will be constructed down Hastie Street that runs alongside the

school.

“There is not enough parking there for the school and it becomes very congested – a lot of the parents go there early and park and stay to pick their kids up,” Cr Davies said.

“So, there will be a stop, drop and go zone there where you can only park for two minutes.”

Additional lighting is also to be installed to properly illuminate the existing pedestrian crossing on Hastie Street.

The works at St Thomas’ are being slated for 2023/24 depending on allocation of funding from the department.

The pedestrian crossing from Kmart to Coles on Walsh Street is also under investigation with plans for it to be moved further along towards Curcio’s Bakery.

This would allow cars coming out of the Kmart car park not having to pause and wait for pedestrians as well as other vehicles.

According to the report, 7080 per cent of customers were very satisfied, while only 4-6 per cent were very dissatisfied, with the most common complaints causing dissatisfaction being animal management issues.

The report revealed that customer requests were allocated across 32 work groups, 44 categories, 138 request types and more than 440 sub-types.

In August 2021, council endorsed a Customer Experience Strategy and standards to match which outlined the commitment “to be a leading customer centric organisation, supporting customers to transact and interact how they want, when they want”.

A raft of actions over the past three years were listed to show how much progress the council has made to improve their response to residents, including:

• Changing the opening hours of the Atherton customer service centre.

• Customer relations officers logging requests directly into the relevant system without requiring forms.

• Training the after hours service provider to ensure consistency in standards.

• Providing monthly reports to the leadership team on customer response performance and customer satisfaction.

• Training staff to take payments over the phone ensuring payments can be taken whenever or however the customer engages with the council.

• Reviewing all online forms and the backend process of the website, removing complexity and unnecessary fields, and

• Providing a customer satisfaction survey in email responses and at the close of phone or face-to-face interactions.

“Future identified improvements include building customer application modules for certain categories (e.g. community project requests, RADF applications and events), cleansing and consolidating the existing request types and sub-types, reducing the number of customised events and preparing for an upgrade of the CRM system,” the report stated.

“This was originally scheduled for this financial year however it has been pushed back until 2024 when the updated software will be released.

“The benefits of upgrading will include the ability for customers to log and track requests directly into the CRM system, the ability for councillors to log and track customer requests on behalf of constituents, and the ability for our afterhours provider to log service requests directly into the system, providing customers with a reference number at the time of lodging a request.”

(Behind Harvey Norman)

Congestion and no free car parks causes cars to park on the middle strip of Hastie Street next to St Thomas' School in Mareeba where the new drop off zone is slated to be constructed.

New era of shire tourism begins

BY RHYS THOMAS

TOURISM business owners from across the Mareeba Shire who want to see their sector grow, have been urged to be “one of the willing” and embark on a journey to elevate the region’s tourism industry to the next level at last week’s launch of the new Local Tourism Organisation (LTO).

Heading the new LTO committee is Councillor Lenore Wyatt supported by Mareeba Chamber of Commerce president Joe Moro alongside Maria Nastasi, who leads the chamber’s tourism taskforce, and council’s tourism and economic development officer Jessica Fealy.

Mareeba Heritage Centre chair Nipper Brown and Kuranda Traders Association president Dei Gould make up the rest of the committee.

Cr Wyatt said while agriculture remained an important economic driver for the shire, tourism has become an increasingly important factor in the economy of the region.

“Each of you will have intimate knowledge of your area but I do see the value in touching on our tourism sectors at a shire level,” she said.

“While agricultural production drives the Mareeba Shire and its economy, tourism is having an increasingly positive impact.

“Prior to the pandemic the value of tourism in the shire had been on a steady growth trajectory.”

Mr Olsen gave a passionate speech about how businesses owners should get behind the new LTO and “cut through” all the other marketing noise to promote the Mareeba Shire.

“Our success together is to find a way to cut through all of the noise, speak specifically to a customer who we want to come and reach them seven to 11 times,” he said.

Mr Olsen believes capitalising on the massive reach that both Tourism and Events Queensland and Tourism Australia have, is an important step in advertising the region with Tourism Australia having the largest social me-

dia following of any tourism destination page on Earth.

A recent study revealed that Cairns and the Great Barrier Reef was the ninth most loved tourism destination on the planet, in the top 10 with the Maldives, Southern France and more.

“All I can do is implore you, get on board with this local tourism organisation, be one of the willing, be a willing partner and contribute ideas but be realistic,” Mr Olsen said.

Kuranda was the undisputed tour-

Community Sponsorship Program 2023

ism destination in the region prior to the Covid lockdowns and chamber president Joe Moro is excited to see the possibility of Kuranda returning to that status once more through the help of the LTO.

“There is no argument that Kuranda is the pinnacle of tourism in the Mareeba Shire and we need to make sure it remains a powerhouse,” he said.

“We are going to try to leverage on every resource we can to promote all the important ingredients in the Ma-

reeba Shire.

“We’ve come together, we are going to collaborate, work together and try to create the magic that we need to stimulate a lot more growth and excitement about our product.”

The next stage of the LTO is a think tank due to be held at the Cedric Davies Hub in Mareeba on 8 March.

One of the key actions of the LTO will be to hold an annual tourism forum each year to discuss possible ideas to strengthen tourism in the region.

Mareeba Leagues Club manager Lucy Conner and new Heritage Coffee House operations manager Jessica Tahir.

Kuranda Traders Association president Dei Gould with Kuranda Koala Gardens owners Peter and Angela Freeman.

Jack Doyle from North Queensland Aero Club with Mellory Doyle, Matthew and Tegan Jennings from Atherton Creek Air Charter.

Mareeba Chamber of Commerce president Joe Moro, LTO chair Councillor Lenore Wyatt, Martina Neidig-Quinlan from Tourism and Events Queensland and Tourism Tropical North Queensland CEO Mark Olsen.

More than 50 local business owners attended the launch of the new Mareeba Shire Local Tourism Organisation last week at The Billabong Kuranda.

Last minute stop to trail tree planting

BY ROBYN HOLMES

MORE than 1500 trees will not be planted along Manthey Road at Tolga Industrial Estate after Tablelands Regional Council put a stop to the exercise amidst concerns that it may hinder future expansion of businesses in the precinct.

The trees, funded by a Queen’s Jubilee grant, were set to be planted by Tablelands Outdoor Recreation Association along the rail trail running parallel to Manthey Road last weekend, but at the eleventh hour council called a special meeting to discuss the issue, ending up in a lengthy debate during which Mayor Rod Marti strongly argued for the project to go ahead.

He said rail trails were highly valued in other parts of the country and questioned why his council did not understand its overall importance, pointing to their apparent willingness to “slice and dice” the trail to suit the needs of private property owners along the rail corridor.

“As long as I am elected on this council I will not support any slicing and dicing of the rail trail – it’s diabolical and doesn’t happen anywhere else,” he said.

Crs Peter Hodge, Bernie Wilce, David Clifton and Kevin Cardew all argued that allowing the tree to be planted now would be inappropriate given the “very powerful” interest by landowners to expand their businesses into the rail corridor and what that would mean in relation to infrastructure such as sewerage and stormwater drainage.

There were also comments alluding to the fact that council had never given formal approval for the tree planting, with a letter of support for the organisation to secure the funding the only documentation referred to during the meeting.

A bike rider himself, Cr Wilce said while he was aware of the trail’s benefits, council also had to recognise that businesses who had spent “millions of dollars” had expressed a desire to expand their holdings.

“As beneficial as it is, it’s a bike or walking track while the industrial estate is an important part of our economy,” he said.

“And to put this into perspective, we are not talking about the destruction of the rail trail – it may mean a slight movement of the trail towards Manthey Road,” he said.

Cr Cardew said a lot of issues were currently in play with the estate and believed council needed to look at the whole picture before allowing trees to be planted at the site.

“It floods and floods badly and we need to address the stormwater issues – we can’t allow development of any sort to happen unless we may end up with eggs on our face again,” he said.

“If we approve anything there before that happens we risk further reputational damage – if we have to remove the trees at a later date, the community will be up in arms. We need to pull back and look at the area overall and consider all the issues. To do anything else is madness.”

But Mayor Marti was adamant planting the trees would not be a “big deal”.

“We are making this bigger than Ben Hur – removing a few trees if needed in a couple of years time is the least of our worries – it’s not the ball in front of us at the moment, it’s just about planting some trees,” he said.

Cr Clifton reminded council that a masterplan for the estate was in development and council should not be second guessing what that document may recommend.

“And the owners of land already there deserve to be heard,” he said.

“They have been seeking to be heard since 2018 and we have not resolved to hear them properly.”

Cr Hodge said his stance was all about balance and moved an alternate recommendation that he asserted would provide some structure as to what needed to be done.

The motion included a formal approval for tree planting from Grove Street to Mathey Road, which has already been done, and the suspension of any tree planting within the rail corridor between Manthey Road and Beantree Road until a detailed plan and strategy is developed to address issues such as the possible extension of industrial use within the rail corridor, stormwater flooding, the possible relocation of the sewer main, and appropriate tree species that will not cause future problems like invasive tree roots and leaf litter.

The motion also instructed the CEO to begin negotiations with landholders in the estate

New lease of life at old eateries

and report back to council by June.

The motion was passed, with Crs Marti, Bilney and Haydon voting against it.

Outside the meeting, representatives of TORA said they were disappointed and called for a Rail Trail Advisory Committee to be reinstated to ensure all stakeholders could be heard and allow issues to be fleshed out before coming before council.

The committee was disbanded in 2015 but not before they developed a draft management plan for the trail from Atherton to Walkamin.

“I am disappointed that we can’t continue planting trees with TRC underwriting our efforts but it’s not the end of the world and we will continue planting trees where we can,” Rail Trails Australia FNQ representative Peter Tuck said.

TORA’s Gayle Sticher said there was a broader issue at play and that was the overall management of the trail.

“We have been asking for the council to return to what we initially believed was going to be the management plan and the management model for the rail trail,” she said.

“The management plan was the model the committee came up with and that talked about everything - the trail itself, its ongoing maintenance, its funding, the relationships with landowners the management of events, maintenance standards, and future upgrades.

“We don’t know whether it was ever endorsed but it was, until last week, still on their (TRC’s) website.

“What we are asking is for the community to come back in – we would like the rail trail advisory and management committee reformed. We want to be involved in making decisions about it that are beneficial for the whole community.”

▪ TURN TO LETTERS ON PAGE 20

THIS WEEK’S SPECIALS

MAREEBA foodies are now spoiled for choice with two new eateries opening in Mareeba, one in the husk of the old RSL and the other carrying the flame lit by an iconic café.

Bosca’s and Nasty’s Fish n Grill are the two new kids on the block with one taking up residence in the remaining space of the old RSL after it was bought by Northern Suppliers and the other honouring the name of popular café Nastasi’s.

Bosca’s has taken over much of the old RSL building which has now been renovated to include a stage for entertainment and a sports bar section with plans for a kid’s area further along the track.

The new restaurant also seeks to fill the hole of a fine dining experience in Mareeba by offering patrons a higher end restaurant experience on a Friday and Saturday night and offer breakfasts on Sundays.

Owner Voli Della Bosca is hoping the venue will become a meeting place for people in Mareeba with something everyone can enjoy.

“This place isn’t just a burger bar or restaurant, it is a meeting place, people can come in here at 10 in the morning, have a coffee and some sweets and talk,” he said.

“I think people are sick of going to pubs and stuff like that, they want something different to enjoy.

“It is licenced so there will be alcohol available, cocktails, tap beer and three craft beers, two are from Billycart Brewery in Atherton.”

The iconic name of Nastasi’s cafe will also live on in Mareeba through the newly opened Nasty’s Fish n Grill, as they seek to pay homage to the classic style and allure of its predecessor.

The café came into the hands of new local owners Bevan and Jamie Carroll and Rachel Barwick last year, who quickly went about renovating the café in preparation to open this year.

The café is supplied through Gulf Caught Seafood, another enterprise launched by the brothers, as well as local butchers, bakers and farmers with all the produce being made in house. A coffee shop has also been added for patrons to get their caffeine fix.

Bevan said one of the main reasons they decided to open Nasty’s was to pay homage to Nastasi’s where both Bevan and Jamie would meet up after school for a bite to eat and to hangout.

“We have done this to keep an iconic café alive, we didn’t do it for ourselves we did it for the town,” Bevan said.

“We used to come here after school so we thought we should give the café the respect it deserves by keeping a part of it alive,” Jamie added.

“I think we are the only ones to catch, slice and cook our own fish.

“We are all born and bred in Mareeba and we are employing about 20 locals through the café.”

Bevan and Jamie Carroll and Rachel Barwick (centre) were excited to open Nasty’s last week.

Historic train set to steam again

BY ROBYN HOLMES

REGULAR trips by a 1905 restored steam train and 1910 wooden passenger carriage will commence at Herberton next month after a successful trial was undertaken by the volunteer-run Atherton Herberton Historic Railway.

The trial involved taking the locomotive and carriage from

the Herberton Railway Station, across a newly upgraded bridge, to the town’s historical village and over two weekends, the experience attracted between 180200 passengers daily.

Eventually, the group hope to run historic train trips from Atherton to Herberton but the trial of the Peckett Steam Locomotive was a big step in achieving their end goal.

“When you shift from restoration work to an operational world with the public, weather, ticketing, and the demands of early 1900 built equipment, we have to do this in a highly-regulated environment,” marketing and business development manager Gary Aylward said.

“We spent time loading passengers and operating to planned schedules to test its systems, equipment and volunteers.

“The trial followed the completion of a major bridge upgrade and the opening of a railway refreshment room at the Herberton station that will eventually represent a 1940’s style room that will take passengers back in time.”

During this month, the group will concentrate on general maintenance and the development of an online booking system which will be operational

by March.

“Then, we will have regular runnings of the steam train every second weekend and the reintroduction of section car runs - the Tinlander in Herberton and the Tablelander section car in Atherton, from the station cafe to Hastie Road and return,” Mr Aylward said.

Tours of the group’s Herberton workshop will also be part of the experience, with a second Pocket Steam locomotive and carriage currently under restoration.

Last week, the group were eagerly waiting for a locomotive to arrive at their large workshop in Herberton but were shocked to hear the truck carrying the rail motor had rolled over on the Kennedy Highway.

“A crane had to come up from Townsville to pull out the truck and, fortunately, the rail motor was not damaged badly,” Mr Aylward said.

“It was a bit battered on one side but it will be fully restored.”

The group had been negotiating with Queensland Rail for more than three years for the rail motor to add to its everexpanding collection.

For more information on the group and train trips, go to www.athrail.com

Volunteers with the new locomotive they will now restore, after it arrived at the train station. It suffered damage after a truck transporting the vehicle overturned on the Kennedy Highway last week.

THE fully-restored 1905 Peckett steam locomotive travels across the newly upgraded bridge on its journey from the Heverton train station to the historic village as part of a trial run. Regular trips on the train will commence next month.

School cuts it fine with hair policy

BY ELLIE FINK

A LOCAL private school has defended its right to dictate the hairstyles of its students, even going so far as to send letters to hairdressers to advise what haircuts are appropriate.

The letter was sent out to hairdressers by Mareeba’s St Stephen’s Catholic College in early January, sparking backlash from local business owners and students.

“St Stephen’s Catholic College is a conservative school and as such, haircuts should be conservative in nature,” the letter stated.

The letter addressed mainly male haircuts, allowing short back and sides but disapproving of mullets, mohawks, shaved heads shorter than a number two, faded sides and long hair on top.

In addition to sending out the letter, students who did not conform with the hair regulations were named at the first whole-school assembly of the year, and told to stay back after the parade was finished so they could be instructed about how to wear their hair, missing out on valuable lesson time.

One of the students, who wants to remain anonymous, told The Express that being named in front of the whole school made him feel “shamed” and “embarrassed”.

He said his naturally curly hair was deemed “too long” just because it touched the collar of his shirt, and had subsequently had it cut to conform to the standards.

“I liked my hair because it made me feel like myself and I was just starting to learn how to look after my curls,” he said.

“I had to cut it. Now, it’s not what I really wanted but it will have to do.”

Many hairdressers who received the letter described it as tasteless, including owner of Dimbulah CutzN-Curls Maria Pinese who felt “completely dumbfounded”.

“I was quite shocked when I saw the letter – I wasn’t expecting it at all because in the whole 30 years I have owned my own salon, I have never received a letter stating the school’s policy on hairstyles,” she said.

“At first I questioned myself, ‘why would I be receiving the letter?’, I feel like it shouldn’t have been addressed to me, it should be addressed to parents and then I thought maybe the school has lost control over their students and this was their way of bringing them back in.”

While she understood why the hair rules were in place, she thought the school had stepped over the line because it was a “business telling another business what their rules are”.

Altitude Hair in Mareeba commented on Facebook that they failed to “see the relevance between intelligence and the length of someone’s hair”.

“I hope that the school you all pay so much for your children to attend is capable of giving them an education no matter whether they look like - clones or not,” she said.

“I attended school nearly 60 years

ago and boys had long hair, it’s 2023 or hasn’t anyone noticed?”

Acting principal Simon Vaughan has defended his decision to send the letter out and the school naming students at assembly, saying he had no intention to offend hairdressers.

He said every parent had received a duplicate of the letter and all students were made aware of the school’s policy when the letter was sent out.

“This letter was a way in which we could inform hairdressers of what our expectations are,” he said.

“It was not a case of telling hairdressers what they can and cannot do, it was my way of being proactive as a principal and informing them of our high expectations.

“If we didn’t value high expectations, we would not be getting the results that we would be getting and providing the opportunities that we do.”

Mr Vaughan said he would never intend to make a student feel ashamed and the college believed in “preserving the dignity of students”.

He said while he was aware that young people used hairstyles to express individuality, the college could offer other ways for students to do so.

Mr Vaughan said there may be room for change in the grooming and uniform expectations in the future and he was open to those conversations when the time comes, but for now, he is remaining steadfast in retaining the current expectations.

Operation Blankie recognised

A WOMAN’S passion for helping and comforting veterans has received an RSL Far Northern District Australia Day Medallion.

Malanda RSL’s Margret Plant created her charity Operation Blankie in 2019, which aims to comfort fellow veterans and their families in times of need, hardship and dark moments by providing them with an “Op Blankie pack”.

In the past three and a half years, the Operation Blankie team have made 2,500 items consisting of rugs, beanies, scarves, mittens, shawls and twiddle mitts to give to veterans in need.

Margret named her group after an old friend, Fossie, who was a veteran who suffered from con-

gestive heart failure and severe oedema.

Fossie would call for his Kanga, which Margaret later found out was his blankie, because he was freezing in September in Home Hill.

After he passed away, the warm blankie was cuddled by his wife for comfort. One of Fossie’s children is a current serving soldier with two tours of Afghanistan.

Margret is currently coordinating 43 volunteers from across the Tablelands, Innisfail, Gordonvale, Mission Beach and Townsville and is always there to lend a helping hand in any circumstance.

Malanda RSL congratulated Margret on her success.

Margret Plant received a Australia Day Medallion from the RSL Far Northern District for her efforts as the Operation Blankie coordinator

Igloo opens for Tablelands first wedding expo

MORE than 20 local wedding vendors will be at the first ever Wedding Expo to be held on the Tablelands this weekend.

The event is being hosted by Rotary Atherton and Tablelands Event Management and Planning at the heritage-listed Rocky Creek Igloo on Saturday from 3pm to 5pm.

The expo will feature more than 20 businesses involved in the wedding sector so those seeking to find everything they need to plan their wedding are urged to attend.

Entry to the event is free to attend.

Principal recognised for 40 years of service

FOR the past 40 years, Malanda State High School principal Gary Toshach has dedicated his career to helping students learn and grow and has now been recognised for his efforts.

Malanda High staff and students had the pleasure recently of surprising Mr Toshach with a special acknowledgment to mark his 40 years of service to Education Queensland.

Special guests Assistant Regional Director Education Queensland Ms Mandy Whybird and Malanda High P&C representative Leanne Hales along with Mr Toshach’s family were present to share the significant milestone.

Mr Toshach began his career in teaching in 1983, transferring to Malanda High in 2015 to take on the principal role.

Over the years he has become well known by staff and students for the ability to know every student in his school and his wonderful qualities of always being fair and considerate to them, encouraging them to do their very best and be courageous in all aspects of their lives.

Ms Hale’s expressed how impressed she was with Mr Toshach’s dedication and how he has continued touch the hearts of students and staff alike.

“40 years spent in any profession is an incredible achievement, but in my humble opinion, 40 years dedicated to nurturing young people as a teacher and leader in education is a particularly noble commitment,” she said.

Malanda State High School principal Gary Toshach was recognised for his 40 years with Education Queensland with Assistant Regional Director Education Queensland Mandy Whybird.

Developer denied payment plan

AN attempt by pub baron Tom Hedley to strike a payment plan for more than $108,000 in infrastructure charges for his Tolga Hotel redevelopment has been rejected by Tablelands Regional Council but he did get some joy on some of the conditions imposed on the project.

In a submission to the council, the developer blamed delays in council responses during the application assessment process, onerous conditions, and a lengthy process to get approval to occupy some of the Rail Trail corridor for the payment plan request.

“It will be some time before the Tolga Hotel will be able to trade its way out of substantial renovation over-run and onerous conditions,” the submission stated.

“This, in addition to the additional burden cost of installation and ongoing servicing maintenance of a new sewer pump station, installed at the owners

(our) cost, installed to not only service the Tolga Hotel but also to eventually service multiple users and future users connection into the existing sewer rising main connections along the sewer rising main downstream to existing Tolga Town Tolga Pump station.

“All these occurred costs, maintenance costs and time delays has resulted in the request for the payment plan for the Infrastructure Charges Notice.”

It was proposed to pay the $108,000 in infrastructure charges over eight years.

“This payment plan is considered acceptable and appropriate as the proponent has gone to a significant expense to breathe life back into the Tolga Township while improving the existing aesthetics and amenity, enhancing the active streetscape and resulting in significantly safer operation,” the submission stated.

But Development Services acting

executive manager Kelly Reaston cautioned the council over agreeing to any payment plan, saying it would be “a significant shift” in policy, and could create a precedent for future developments which would have budget implications.

A report to council advised that if the payment plan was agreed to, it would be the first of its kind in the recent history of TRC.

“The only comparable arrangement is that granted to John Cole Toyota, which was a 10-year instalment plan (unindexed payments) captured by an Infrastructure Agreement,” it stated.

“As general rule, officers do not support infrastructure charge deferrals, waivers or reductions for ‘for profit’ entities where such arrangements would sit outside the scope of council’s charging policies.

“Aside from the fact that doing so may lead to council being unable to ful-

fil its infrastructure commitments under the Local Government Infrastructure Plan, council has this year adopted no less than three targeted incentivisation policies dealing with infrastructure charge waivers, reductions and deferrals, and the requested arrangement sits outside the scope of all three policies.”

Council officers also rejected that it caused delays in assessing the development application.

“Council processed the development application as promptly as possible given the complexities of the matter and the significant level of community interest,” a report stated.

“It is worth noting that the application was ‘not properly made’ for almost 12 months as the applicant failed to obtain the necessary State agency consent for the inclusion of the rail corridor land in the proposal prior to lodgement despite officers advising that this would form a requirement well in advance of

Help needed to bring Annie home to fight cancer

A TRIP home to the Philippines to celebrate Christmas ended in a major emergency surgery for Atherton occupational therapist Anfriel Prado after they discovered life threatening cancerous cysts on her ovaries.

Anfriel, more affectionately known as Annie, came to Australia in 2021 to take on a job as a children’s occupational therapist at The Whole Child Haven to assist with the profession’s national shortage.

The 30 year old quickly became an Australian resident and got straight into work, changing the lives of several local children and their parents.

Last year, Annie became concerned for her health and the search for a doctor was unsuccessful, with no local doctors able to take her on as a patient.

Although being a resident and all her health

needs being covered by Medicare, she could not receive the care she needed.

Her pain became worse whilst she visited her family to celebrate Christmas so she visited her family’s doctor who found a cluster of aggressive ovarian cysts and was quickly sent into emergency surgery to for a radical hysterectomy.

Subsequent tests performed during the surgery have since revealed that the tissue is malignant.

Local woman Jean Newman had been housing Annie whilst she works in Atherton, becoming a good friend and mentor.

When hearing the news of Annie’s diagnosis and sudden surgery, she was shocked and has set up a GoFundMe to help bring her back to Australia to receive the care she needs under Medicare.

“(Annie) was diagnosed stage one sub c 3 a very troubling diagnosis category ovarian cancer border-

line to stage two,” Jean said.

“She needs chemotherapy and wants to come back to Australia with her mum to care for her while she has treatment here or in Cairns.

“Unfortunately, the Philippines does not have the same health system as Australia and over the past weeks Annie has used all of her savings of around $10,000 to pay for operations and medications.”

“Cancer may have robbed Annie of her ability to bear children, but let's make sure it does not rob her of her life or her capacity to contribute to the community in far north Queensland,” Jean said.

The goal for the GoFundMe is $15,000 to help cover the expenses of coming home and housing Annie’s mother and support her until she is fit and able to return back to work. To donate to Annie’s GoFundMe, visit https://gofund.me/ea3f0dd6

lodgement.”

They also rejected the notion that the new sewer pump station would be used to service other properties in the area.

“The private pump station installed to service the hotel (and only the hotel) was done so at the applicant’s insistence before the application was lodged,” officers stated.

“The Tostevin Street pump station, which was installed as part of the Panorama Views development, was not installed with plans, by either the developer or council, to facilitate access to the rising main by other properties along the rail corridor.”

Mr Hedley did win on some of the conditions imposed on the project, including removing the need to install an awning on the Main Street façade of the bottle shop as it would look out of character with the heritage appearance of the hotel.

Product of Australia

Product of Australia

Product of Australia

Afriel “Annie” Prado was diagnosed with ovarian cancer over the Christmas period, which led to an emergency radical hysterectomy.

Health worker boost for region

OVER 50 new graduate nurses have joined the frontline and will begin working around the region as they set out to complete two six-month rotations at the Cairns hospital and hospitals on the Tablelands.

A total 85 nurses and midwives began working across the region last week, with Atherton hospital receiving three graduate nurses and one midwife while two nurses began their work at Mareeba hospital and other services in the shire including Lotus Glen.

CHHHS executive director of nursing and midwifery Cameron Duffy said the graduates work in all areas of the health service, including cancer care, day surgery, orthopaedics, respiratory and renal ward, gastroenterology ward, and mental health.

“We are very excited to welcome this large cohort of 80 registered nurses (RNs) and five midwives to our health service,” he said.

“These graduates will be working for various units across our vast region, including dialysis at Mossman Multipurpose Health Service - the first time for a rotational program between dialysis and a rural hospital.

“The program allows the graduates to access support and professional development throughout the year, so there are plenty of opportunities to develop their nursing and midwifery career.”

The graduate program helps ease the new staff’s transition from students to registered nurses and midwives.

Ebonie Campbell is one of the new RNs start-

Nursing graduates Indira Lena and Ebonie Campbell with Executive Director of Nursing and Midwifery Cameron Duffy.

ing work this week in Cairns Hospital’s Rehabilitation and Acute Stroke Unit and said she decided to study nursing to give back to her community.

“I worked in administration for 10 years, but it wasn’t my dream,” she said.

“I really wanted to do work where I am helping people and making a difference.

“My mum works in mental health for Queensland Health and seeing what she has done with her career has played a big part in me deciding to go into nursing.

“I am really excited about working as an RN at the hospital.”

Officials warn about increase in bacterial disease

HEALTH officials have warned Far North residents to be alert as cases of people being admitted to intensive care for the severe bacterial disease, leptospirosis, have recently increased.

Leptospirosis is a dangerous soil-borne disease that occurs throughout mainland Australia but is more common in the tropics, especially after flooding.

The disease is spread through animal urine and humans can

come into contact with the disease by working in an agricultural setting and recreational activities.

Symptoms of the disease include fevers, severe headaches, muscle aches, bloodshot eyes, coughing and vomiting.

“We know in the wet season that there are risks associated with flooded waters up in our region,” Tropical Public Health Services acting director Dr An-

National Servicemen recognised

A CEREMONY to recognise the role of National Servicemen and dedicate plaques to three former soldiers was held at the Rocky Creek Memorial Park on Saturday.

Organised by the National Servicemen’s Association – Tableland Branch, the event recognised three soldiers who served in Australia’s National Service 1951 to 1959 scheme – Trevor Keeling of Mt Sheridan,

Doug Stace of Carrington, and Boyd McQueen of Atherton and Mossman. Boyd set up the three FNQ branches in 2021.

Relatives of the soldiers placed a poppy on a family plaque manufactured in their honour which will be permanently erected on a Memorial Wall in the Nasho shelter at Rocky Creek War Memorial Park.

nie Preston-Thomas said.

“One organism that we have seen a few cases of this year already is leptospirosis, it is a bacterium that is common amongst many animals.

“If people are in contact with rivers, mud, soil that is contaminated people can get quite sick with this condition.”

In the Cairns and Hinterlands region there have been 10 reported cases of the disease.

Douglas Stace’s son Lance Stace and daughters Ellie Borgert and Roslyn Hilliery.

Boyd McQueen’s wife Betty McQueen.

Trevor Keeling’s wife Jenny Keeling.

Len Barbagallo with his Meritorious Award.

This is the Atherton Tablelands if Chalumbin wind development is approved! The result will be 86 industrial-scale wind turbines from Ravenshoe to Tully, FNQ

These things weren't here last year!

What's that ahead?

250 meters high –That’s nearly 2 times higher than the Sydney Harbour Bridge!

Not sure but it's moving fast!

Who put those bloody things there?

These trees look weird. I'm out of here!

The community does not consent to the proposed Chalumbin Wind Farm, Ravenshoe, FNQ.

Please subscribe & sign the petition* – closes 22nd Feb 2023

Go to: www.rainforestreserves.org.au

The Petition states: "The developer has failed to engage in open community consultation forums. The developer has actively avoided holding or attending open community meetings, instead engaging in one on one and small group 'information sessions' In addition the developer has misled the community about the development. In the draft Public Environment Report Ark Energy provides contradictory, false and misleading information. The document fails to meet the Guidelines for the Content of a draft PER Chalumbin Wind Farm Petition Request: We therefore ask the House to reject the development in it's entirety "

*Please note this petition was not lodged by Rainforest Reserves Australia

www.rainforestreserves.org.au email: info@rainforestreserves.org.au

Mareeba teenager set to fly high

MAREEBA teenager Marcus Stallan-Caamano is one of 26 students taking part in a nation-first program aimed at boosting the local aviation industry.

The inaugural cadetship launched last week Jet Aviation and Skytek with, Aviation Australia as the training provider, aims to tackle the skills shortage of Licenced Aircraft Maintenance Engineers (LAMEs) in Cairns caused by the Covid pandemic.

The 10-month program was fully developed locally to support Cairns aviation and with the purpose of extending across Australia. A cohort of 26 – including men, women, school leavers and mature-age learners –have been accepted into the fully-subsidised program.

At just 16 years of age, Marcus is the youngest participant in the program.

The teenager, who enjoys helping his grandfather fix engines on their family farm, said he was keen to expand his mechanical knowledge.

“I’ve always been interested in this kind of work, so once a spot opened up, I hopped straight on it,” Marcus said.

“I’m excited about the practical work and getting on board for some work experience.

“Once the program is done, I see myself working full-time, getting all my licences, and working on jet engines.

“I’m interested in every part of the course, especially learning about aeroplane engines.”

According to the Regional Aviation Association of Australia, there has been a rapid decline in employment and retention of LAMEs since 2014 and the situation had now a crisis point, with maintenance licencing dropping from 297 yearly in the early 2000s to 135 in 2021.

Aviation Australia Business Manager for North Queensland Chris Pigott said the cadetship was designed to accelerate skilled specialists into jobs.

“For the first time in Cairns and Australia, we’re kicking off a Licenced Aircraft Engineer program,” he said.

“Since Covid, there’s been a huge shortage of LAMEs, so the training we were doing before Covid we had to change it to fit the industry.

“We’ve got two companies on board, Jet Aviation and Skytek; both have put their hands in their pockets and, along with Queensland Government, will fully fund the training for the participants.

“We’ll be accelerating the training of all the applicants so they can enter the aircraft industry – they’ll have job guarantees if they meet the criteria and be fast-

tracked to become LAMEs.

“It’s a very exciting program - it’s never been done before, and it shows that if you listen to the industry and work with industry, anything can happen,” he added.

Mr Pigott said the program would allow applicants to have real-life experience that would prepare them to transition into the aircraft industry easily.

“These cadets will be working closely with industry throughout their practical and theoretical training,” he said.

“They will be able to learn on real aircrafts instead of a simulated environment.

“The industry is experiencing huge growth, and this program will help to keep up with the demand.”

One of the few women in the group, Khalisah Mohammed, said she was excited to represent women in such a male-dominated industry.

“With the pandemic and seeing how the world changed, I came across avionics and decided that I would do this,” she said.

Free marketing help on offer

SMALL businesses are being urged to apply for free marketing advice as part of a Marketing Success Program being run by ADhesive Communication.

On offer is $50,000 worth of marketing assistance for businesses with less than 50 employees.

ADhesive Communication director Vanessa Allen, who recently won the CBWC Small Business Owner of the year and who’s agency won the People Management Excellence Award at the Cairns Chamber of Commerce’s 2022 Business Excellence Awards, said the program was a great way of taking the business to its next level of development.

“We keep the program limited to businesses with less than 50 employees so we can focus on helping businesses who really need it,” she said.

“Small businesses are the fabric of our community and that is who I want to help.”

“I’m very excited because Aviation Australia has been very accommodating – the opportunities are there for the women to pursue, and I really want to be a part of that.

“I can’t wait for the practical part of things, theory is going to be intense, but I just can’t wait to get my hands dirty.”

On completion of the 10-month cadetship, students who meet the criteria will transition to being employed with either Jet Aviation or Skytek.

Trainees who meet the selection criteria for an apprenticeship can expect to become a qualified LAME in four years while training and working locally.

Mr Pigott said the program had the potential to become a statewide model.

“This program is going to be a success, and it can be rolled out everywhere,” he said.

“There’s a critical worldwide shortage of LAMEs, and Cairns is particularly struggling, so we could run this program for 10 years until we fill the gaps.”

In 2022, ADhesive gave free marketing assistance to 20 businesses across Queensland as part of the program.

The Marketing Success Program will once again be split into two rounds, with the first round of applications open until 28 February.

Participants will be selected based on the strength of their submission. Another round of applications will open later in 2023.

Full details of the various levels of free marketing assistance on offer are available online along with the application form at www.adhesive.com.au/ marketing-success-program

Kahlisah Mohammed and Marcus Stallan-Caamano at the launch of the cadetship.

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Big rewards at Casa Mia Living

A PROMOTION encouraging potential residents to choose Casa Mia Living as their “home sweet home” has been launched.

Casa Mia Living, based in Gordonvale, began construction this year and will be Far North Queensland’s first all-inclusive seniors’ living community, bringing together the vibrancy of a retirement village with the care capabilities residents require in their ageing journey to create a revolutionary integrated offering providing vibrancy and care in one location.

Until Friday 24 February at 5pm, the next eight prospective residents who reserves a villa in at Casa Mia Living will receive six months of free general service fees upon move-in, usually valued at up to $8,000 for couples.

The general service fees cover the maintenance and upkeep of common areas, grounds, and amenities, such as the swimming pool, fitness centre, central piazza, and 24-hour emergency care.

The promotional offer will allow residents to enjoy all that Casa Mia Living has to offer without any extra expenses for the first six months of their residency.

“We are committed to providing sen-

iors with a top-notch later living experience, and this pre-construction promotional offer is just the beginning,” said Casa Mia living spokesperson Renee Straguszi, “We invite everyone to join us in this exciting journey and become a part of Casa Mia’s bright future.”

The next information session will be

held on Monday, 13 February at Cazaly’s Cairns. Tickets are free but must be booked in advance.

To reserve a space or for more information on Casa Mia Living and take advantage of this unique opportunity, please visit casamialiving.com.au or call (07) 4249 3775.

QCWA’s recipe of the month

CARROT AND PINEAPPLE CAKE

This cake is light and fresh, with plenty of natural sweetness coming from the pineapple, carrots, cinnamon and nutmeg. The chopped pecans add in an extra boost of fibre and a nice texture to the cake. This recipe is provided by Queensland Country Women’s Association’s “Country Kitchens” program.

Ingredients

1 ¼ cup plain flour (or gluten free flour)

¾ teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon baking powder

1 teaspoon cinnamon

½ teaspoon nutmeg

¼ cup sugar

2 large eggs

⅓ cup olive oil

2 cups carrot, grated 400g can crushed pineapple, drained

⅓ cup pecan nuts, chopped

Method

Preheat oven to 180°C and line a slice tin or a 20cm round cake tin with baking paper.

Mix all ingredients together except carrot, pineapple and nuts. Fold in carrot, pineap-

ple and nuts. Pour mixture into prepared tin. Bake for 20-35 minutes, or until golden brown and a skewer comes out clean.

An artist’s impression of Casa Mia Living.

Hospital equipment a bonus for patients

MORE than $31,000 worth of medical equipment has been provided to the Atherton Hospital by the local Friends of the Foundation, allowing residents to be treated closer to home.

A subsidiary of the Far North Queensland Hospital Foundation, the Atherton group has been able to provide four pieces of medical and physiotherapy equipment thanks to their fundraising efforts which include weekly bingo, a shopping trolley in the hospital and other raffles, donations and activities.

Atherton Friends of the Foundation president Dianne Williams was delighted to see the equipment in place.

“Our community works so hard fundraising for the hospital and it’s so amazing to see the fruits of their labour,” she said.

The equipment is comprised of a trust care walker for physiotherapy, a vital signs observations tower, zimmer dermatome and a maxi walker.

Atherton Hospital Medical Ward Nurse Unit Manager Anlin Chalakkal said the maxi walker was a great asset, particularly for bariatrics admissions with reduced mobility.

“With this new equipment, we can make sure of patient safety. Our physiotherapists found this very useful when they try to help the patient,” she said.

“Overall, it has increased the staff confidence as well as patient safety and wellbeing.”

The Zimmer Dermatome is an air-driven skin grafting knife to upgrade current instruments.

Atherton Hospital perioperative services

Nurse Unit Manager Lena Bath said it would be the first of its kind in Atherton and would provide exceptional results with consistent, reliable skin graft retrieval.

“This equipment will prevent Atherton’s more complex patients requiring skin grafts from being transferred to Cairns for treatment,” she said.

“For our community, that is about 130 pa-

tients a year who can be treated close to home in Atherton,” Ms Bath said.

“We value the kind generosity of the Hospital Foundation for the purchase of this valuable equipment,” she said.

Atherton Hospital physiotherapist Amy Lockyer was grateful for the purchase of a trust care walker and observations tower.

“The trust care walker can be used by people with the use of only one arm. This new walker has already been used several times on the ward for people with various arm fractures and has been vital in increasing their independence, aiding in timely equipment for home trials and ultimately speeding up discharge home from hospital,” she said.

“The observations tower will sit in the physiotherapy rehabilitation gym where group exercise programs including falls prevention, cardiac and pulmonary rehabilitation are run.

“It is used to check blood pressure and oxygen before starting the exercise groups which

helps make sure everybody is fit and able to participate!

“The observations tower is also used by the speech pathologists while doing swallowing assessments to monitor the patient’s oxygen levels with a much higher accuracy than the small portable monitors previously used.

“Allied Health has not previously owned an observations tower and are very thankful to the Hospital Foundation for providing the funding so that we now have one on hand whenever it’s needed.”

Foundation CEO Gina Hogan said it was rewarding to see the equipment in place and used, as a result of fundraising activities.

“The Atherton Friends group work incredibly hard and it’s amazing to see all the end result that’s benefiting patients and staff in this community,” she said.

“Kudos to the bingo ladies and all the other hard-working Atherton Friends who do so much for their community,” she said.

Time to think big with super-sized grants on offer

LOCAL community and not-for-profit organisations can now apply for a super-sized grant of up to $100,000 under the Gambling Community Benefit Fund’s annual Super Round.

Attorney-General and Minister for Justice Shannon Fentiman said this was the second year this round has been on offer and there was a share of $20 million up for grabs.

“Now is the time for local organisations to think big and apply for a GCBF grant,” she said.

“These grants can be used to purchase items such as vehicles and sporting equipment, be used for building upgrades, specialised training and more.

“In last year’s Super Round, 21 organisations received the maximum grant amount of $100,000.”

In 2023, there will be four rounds of GCBF funding – the Super Round offering grants of up to $100,000, and the other three rounds offering grants of up to $35,000.

Ms Fentiman said the government wanted to ensure the GCBF continued to benefit a diverse range of organisations, especially in rural and regional Queensland.

“We want to make sure these grants support Queenslanders from all backgrounds and from every corner of our State,” she said.

“I would encourage organisations that support groups such as First Nations people, migrants and refugees, people with a disability, as well as organisations that assist women and families escaping domestic and family violence, to consider applying.

“You don’t need to hire a professional grant writer to apply – just make sure you read the GCBF guidelines and tell us your story in your own words.”

Organisations can also contact the GCBF if they need help on 1800 633 619. The Super Round is open for eligible groups to apply until midnight on 28 February. For more information on how to apply visit www.justice.qld.gov.au/ initiatives/community-grants

Foundation members Josie Raso, Luci Bultman, Bev Prescott, Dorothy Bew, Di Williams, Jo Barnes, Lyn Swan, Rosa Lee Long Phyne Dugdell and Anna Williams with the trust care walker.

Tiger highlight of exhibition

A LOCAL artist has bought the Tasmanian Tiger back to life using chicken wire, some spray paint and a whole lot of passion.

Tablelands Region Art Society artist Tamara Lay spent three weeks almost non-stop working on the sculpture now being displayed at the Tablelands Regional Gallery.

The art society put together the “Out of the Shadows” exhibition at the beginning of the month and Tamara knew a Tasmanian Tiger would suit the theme just right.

“I have always had an interest in them and I remember in 2017 when James Cook University students were doing some research

on sightings up here in the north,” she said.

“It took about three weeks to get it done. I have been making sculptures out of chicken wire for a while.

“I started doing chicken wire art when I decided one day I wanted to make a chicken out of chicken wire – it wasn’t the best and looked like a lump of mess but after practice I perfected it and have made several chicken wire animals.”

Tamara’s sculpture and the “Out of the Shadows” exhibition will be open until Saturday 18 March at the Tablelands Regional Gallery – Open Tuesday to Friday 10am to 4pm and Saturday 10am to 1pm.

Super-hero movie action on the big screen

THERE is more excitement on the Majestic Malanda big screen this week with the new eagerly anticipated Marvel Studio’s super-hero action adventure comedy “The Ant-Man And The Wasp: Quantumania”.

It has an all-star line-up including Paul Rudd, Evengeline Lilly, Jonathon

Meyers, Michael Douglas and Michele Pfeiffer. This one is not to be missed and is starting this Thursday with the rest of the country.

Another great film is “The Banshees Of Inisherin” which is set in Ireland and stars Colin Farrell and Brendon Gleeson, but you will have to

hurry as this is its final week.

For a bit of fun and excitement, catch “Magic Mike’s Last Dance”, starring Channing Tatum in the lead role with Salma Hayek.

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

Raymond Cupitt was part of the band who entertained the crowd on Sunday.

Claire and Amila were all smiles while enjoying the

in the park.

Tamara Lay’s love for Tasmanian Tigers motivated her latest piece being displayed at the Tablelands Regional Gallery.

Matt Wensley and Farno enjoyed the free afternoon event. Nick Watling on the drums.

Art shows the beauty within

HER journey to self-discovery and body positivity was what motivated local artist Jo-Ellen Bouttell to create paintings portraying a woman’s beauty.

Jo-Ellen, who is a professional artist working out of At the Art Garage in Yungaburra, primarily paints the female body, showcasing its beauty, changes, and uniqueness.

After being diagnosed with breast cancer, JoEllen began her journey to self-discovery art was her creative outlet.

“Abstract has always been my flare but over the last decade I have been painting female bodies,” she said.

“I was inspired by my journey with breast cancer and began thinking about body positivity. I then began to have these conversations surrounding body positivity and self-worth with other women.”

Starting off with just a few portraits of her friends, Jo-Ellen bought out the best in them and began “not-so-secretly” breaking down their insecurities and showing them the beauty they possess.

She believes through her art, which she now commissions to women across the nation, women can begin to heal the relationships they have with themselves and their loved ones.

“I have the conversation with women about selfworth and how our bodies are designed to change and we as women tend to loathe that,” she said.

“I have watched not only their relationships with themselves improve but also their relationships with their partners and children improved as they discover that they are amazing, and they do have value.”

Jo-Ellen will be hosting her “Naked Truth” exhibition at At The Art Garage, Yungaburra on 18 March from 7pm and welcomes everyone to come along and learn more about body positivity and her artwork. Entry is free.

She will also be hosting a five hour workshop on 25 March from 9am until 2pm. All art materials are supplied. For more information, contact Jo-Ellen on 0407 277 075.

Book tells love of tree kangaroos

LOCAL romance author Frances Dall’Alba has released her latest book “Jack and Eva”, showcasing the rare Lumholtz Tree Kangaroo.

Inspired by the work done by Dr Karen Coombes at the Tree Roo Rescue Park on the outskirts of Malanda, the novel follows Eva Stamford – a chatty community girl who volunteers everywhere she goes with a passion for tree kangaroos.

Jack Waller is the opposite, returning to the region to fulfil a promise to his mother and finds himself running into Eva also every day.

The more time they spend together, the harder it is to ignore the chemistry intensifying between them, and Jack is learning fast, it’s either the

whole Eva package including her tree kangaroos, or nothing.

Eva needs to stay on Jack’s good side because his property borders the Tree Roo Rescue Park. Any changes he makes to the property might unsettle her furry babies, and this can’t happen on her watch. Then she needs to tell Jack about the curse and forget about encouraging one final fling.

“While it's not a book inspired by Dr Coombes’ life, when a reader has finished the book, they will know about the existence of the Tree Kangaroo, and they will know of the great work Dr Karen does,” Ms Dall’Alba said.

The book is available at francesdallalba.wixsite.com/ francesdallalba/jackandeva

ON LANDthe

Royal beef award up for grabs

TABLELANDS beef producers have the chance to benchmark and better promote their products, with entries now open for the Royal Queensland Branded Beef and Lamb Awards.

The beef and lamb entries will be judged in April by a team of experts, including top chefs from award-winning restaurants, butchers, food consultants and food journalists.

The meat will be prepared for judging by food scientists following Meat Standards Australia and Department of Agriculture and Fisheries standards, to ensure each piece is cooked the same.

Chief Judge Elaine Millar said she expected to see a high quality of entries in the 2023 competition.

“Australia’s beef and lamb is renowned globally for its exceptional quality and this competition attracts some of the most outstanding brands in the red meat retail market each year,” she said.

“The competition allows suppliers to benchmark their products on a national sale, with the winners to receive medals to display on their product packaging, ensuring restaurants and consumers know they’re purchasing an exceptional cut of meat.”

This year’s competition will feature eight classes across beef and lamb, with entries judged on five criteria including appearance (raw), tenderness, flavour, juiciness and overall liking.

AgForce

Entries must be in by Friday 24 March, with judging taking place from Monday 17 April and the winners to be announced at an awards presentation on Friday 19 May.

To enter go to www.rqa.com.au

fights moves to cut fuel tax credits

AGFORCE is fighting calls to halve the fuel tax credit for farmers and abolish the reduced rate of road tax paid by tractors.

Chief executive officer Michael Guerin warned that the cuts, as outlined in a report by independent think tank Grattan Institute, would be disastrous to the Australian economy.

The Grattan Institute report claims that by increasing the cost of diesel for farmers, they will simply use less or switch to alternatives – lowering Australia’s greenhouse gas emissions.

“AgForce stands united with the National Farmers' Federation in calling on Treasurer Jim Chalmers to urgently rule out any changes to the fuel tax credits scheme ahead of the Federal Budget,” he said.

“Farmers are already battling a cost of farming crisis, with fuel, fertiliser and other inputs at historically high levels.

“As a result, food bills are soaring and families are feeling the pinch at the checkout.

“Making things tougher for farmers will only result in even higher inflation and yet more pain for consumers.”

Mr Guerin said taxing farm machinery, such as tractors, made absolutely no sense and was further

evidence of how farmers are being unfairly targeted by greenies seeking to vilify them over climate change.

“It’s sad to see our farmers being attacked again over climate change, when agriculture has already done more than any other industry in this country to lower emissions – reducing our emissions by 58.21 per cent since 2005,” he said.

“As responsible custodians of the land and our nation’s true environmentalists, our farmers will never shy away from playing their part when it comes to helping reduce our country’s carbon emissions.

“But taxing tractors is not a fair solution.

“The diesel road tax is intended for heavy road vehicles, such as large trucks.

“These vehicles cause the most wear and tear on our roads so it’s fair they should pay more for road repairs.

“Farm tractors don’t use public roads so why should they have to pay the road tax?

“It’s the same for tourism operators, mines and commercial fishing boats.

“Road taxes are for road users. That’s fair - let’s keep it that way.”

ON LANDthe

New biosecurity zone to keep the honey flowing

A NEW biosecurity zone has been established in Queensland to further protect the beekeeping industry from the threat of varroa mite coming into the State.

Minister for Agricultural Industry Development and Fisheries and Minister for Rural Communities Mark Furner said honey producers would welcome the move as another important safeguard of their livelihood.

“Queensland is free of varroa mite and we want to keep it that way,” Mr Furner said.

“All of Queensland is now a designated biosecurity zone and anyone wishing to bring in bees, hives, used beekeeping equipment or bee products (including unprocessed honey) from states or territories where varroa mite has been found will need a permit.

“Entry from states or territories declared free of varroa mite will be allowed without a permit, providing any hives are secured to prevent bees from escaping or entering other hives while in transit.”

Queensland Beekeepers Association president Jacob Stevens said the move was a positive step forward for the organisation’s members and industry colleagues who had been caught up during the closure of state borders.

“Varroa mite is a significant threat to honey bees and all those dependent on a healthy honey bee industry,” Mr Stevens said.

“The reopening of borders under a strict permit and compliance system will provide beekeepers with a means to migrate bees again on the back of another challenging season for the state’s beekeepers.”

Bee louse is no longer considered to be prohibited matter, but beekeepers must still report any signs of louse infestation in their hives.

Processed honey or processed beeswax, new or unused apiary appliances, and quarantine secured diagnostic honey sample for testing at a recognised diagnostic facility can continue to enter Queensland.

Beekeepers should continue monitoring their hives and report unexpected hive deaths, deformed bees, parasites, poor brood patterns and dead brood to Biosecu-

rity Queensland on 13 25 23.

All beekeepers should the results to Bee 123 - Surveillance (arcgis.com) online form, scan the QR code or call 13 25 23, even if no suspect mites are found.

The more checks and reports made by commercial and recreational beekeepers, the more data is available to support Queensland's claim of area freedom from varroa mite.

Apiarists who suspect a case of varroa mite should immediately call Biosecurity Queensland on 13 25 23 or email info@daf. qld.gov.au.

Detailed information on how to check hives and report results can be found at daf. qld.gov.au/varroa and daf.engagementhub. com.au/varroa-mite.

Landcare grants now open for schools

PRIMARY schools and early learning centres across the Tablelands are being urged to apply for grants offered by Woolworths and Landcare Australia as part of a program aimed at connecting young generations with nature and inspiring them to play an active role in ensuring the safe future of their environment.

The latest round of the Woolworths Junior Landcare Grants program is now open. Grants of up to $1,000 are on offer for projects focussed on sustainable food production, improving waste management practices, enhancing native habitats and deepening First Nations perspectives.

Applications are open now and close 17 March 2023. To find out more to apply, visit juniorlandcare.org.au.

Ted Bailey chats with his local dealer James Fisher alongside his Kioti CK4220 at his property near Mareeba. Conditions can be trying in Far North Queensland. There is the humidity for one thing and grasshoppers can severely damage crops and pastures. For Ted and Tanya Bailey, a new venture on their 10 acre property required a tough, versatile and highly manoeuvrable tractor.

Trail social value ignored

A TRC special meeting was held on Wednesday 8 February to vote upon the proposal “That council approve the planting of 1,550 rainforest species trees on 11 February 2023 by the Tablelands Outdoor Recreation Association within the rail trail corridor along Manthey Road up to Beantree Road in accordance with their approved trees for the Queen’s Jubilee Grant funding.”

This project was already approved by council, had a recommendation letter written by council to the grant committee, and received a funding grant for the work. Trees had been purchased from council with this grant money and volunteers from TREAT, TORA and T4 were all standing by waiting to plant.

And then, at the last minute, businesses within the industrial estate raised objections, believing they should be able to extend their businesses 7m into the Rail Trail corridor and that tree planting would be an impediment to their future expansion and progress.

These objections were given precedence, despite the fact that the Rail Trail corridor is TMR (Transport and Main Roads) land, owned by the state and leased by TRC. It is not freehold land and is not currently accessible for development.

Conversion to freehold land, if even possible, would be a lengthy, costly and difficult procedure. Prior developments abutting Rail Trail land near the Tolga Pub has already resulted in the local running group having to move their monthly activities to another location. We continue to see our rail trail corridor dismissed by councillors who are biased towards industry and monetary gain only with no priority given to social or community value.

In regard to all the extra discussion regarding storm water mitigation, many council members didn’t consider that a) trees have a positive impact on reducing erosion and runoff, b) any extra building infrastructure will negatively impact upon land available to mitigate flooding events, c) storm-water mitigation is an ongoing concern regardless of other factors, and d) the sewerage and main water to Tolga runs on that land and the businesses would be responsible for paying for realignment if they were ever able to lease, which would be cost prohibitive to them.

The planning officer even mentioned that he had already considered long-term storm-water planning within his initial recommendation to proceed with the tree planting, all to no avail. The proposal was rejected by all but three council members. Kudos to the Mayor, Rod Marti, and Councillors Bilney and Haydon, shame on the rest of you!

Our Mayor rightly pointed out that the Rail Trail is an asset, and should be developed appropriately for all to enjoy. Rail trails generate tourist dollars and they are a recreational haven for walkers, cyclists, bird watchers, runners, etc.

The planting of Mabi forest species along the trail would have provided shade, a linking of forest sections, and added aesthetic value and was ready to proceed.

Disappointingly, many of our council representatives failed to consider social value in their decision making and, once again, industrial concerns won out.

Sandra Butler ATHERTON

Pioneer cemetery misses out

I READ with disbelief the article “Tourism to Drive Shire” (Express 07/02/2023).

It stated that “$20 million dollars was spent by visitors in the Mareeba Shire in one month alone” in 2022. It further stated that a number of organisations will be banding together to promote Mareeba and highlight the locations and experiences the town has to offer.

I await with an eager breath as to what the Mareeba experiences our town has to offer.

A further report presented at the Mareeba Shire Council’s latest meeting “revealed that over the past four years visitor expenditure had been increasing, as visitors spent $156 million in the shire over the 2022 calendar year”.

One has to wonder with so much money being yelled around, the Mareeba Pioneer Cemetery still can’t get the much-needed perimeter fence, solar lighting and much needed respectful upgrades it so deserves.

One has to wonder with so much money being yelled around the Mareeba Pioneer Cemetery still can’t get the muchneeded perimeter fence, solar lighting and much needed respectful upgrades it so deserves.

A cemetery with no fencing, only one tap for water, no information boards, no parking for vehicles and a dirt track through the middle and a rotunda needing a serious upgrade.

The cemetery itself is maintained by people who are on community service, so our town is extremely lucky this occurs, because without it, our cemetery would be an overgrown grassed field, with graves not even seen.

Not one cent from our council goes towards this resting place of so many of our loved ones.

Why is it our Pioneer Cemetery continues to be neglected, subjected to ongoing willful damage, long grass during the wet seasons, and a total lack of any respect or notion of respect from our current council, even though many of us have written letters pleading with the Council to put some funds back into

it, or complete a funding grant for such improvements just like the Forsyth Cemetery Shelter and perimeter fencing (Funded by Queensland Government Works for Queensland program)?

r VOCAL LOCAL

The Mareeba Pioneer Cemetery is a haven of history, rich in pioneers, military history and so many icons of our town. Our forefathers who made Mareeba what it is today lay here in peace, but not one ounce of interest has been put into this iconic location from our council.

Our cemetery has many unnamed graves, children’s graves, and many aboriginal families of Mareeba and this location really could be a respectful self-toured location for our visitors with information boards but it’s obvious that if you don’t pay at the counter, our council isn’t interested.

What a sad state of affairs when we cant even remember our own Mareeba history, when most of us drive passed it and visitors park across the road to enjoy one of the many beautiful coffees our region sells.

It actually looks like our council wishes to hide it with the terrible small trees they planted in front of it.

I await what Mareeba has to offer and can only hope it won’t be judged by “clicks from a computer screen”, but long overdue improvements like many other pioneer cemeteries this shire have been lucky enough to receive.

Michael Musumeci MAREEBA

Time for truth on vaccines

I WAS first censored out of newspapers in August 2020 for noting the clinical benefits of Ivermectin and hydroxychloroquine as zinc ionophores to successfully treat Covid in combination with zinc, vitamins C and D3, and antibiotics such as azithromycin.

The TGA banned GPs from prescribing Ivermectin off-label for the treatment of Covid despite it being on the WHO’s list of essential drugs (WHO list of essential medicines.pdf) and its discoverers winning a Nobel Prize in Medicine for it.

I’m not at microbiologist or immunologist, so I was quoting Professor Kyle Wagstaff from Monash University - (“The FDA-approved drug ivermectin inhibits the replication of SARS-CoV-2 in vitro”), and Professor Thomas Borody, Director of the Centre for Digestive Diseases, NSW, who cured Crohn’s Disease and many other leading medical researchers.

The Queensland Government had already decided to fine doctors $13,000 for curing their Covid-19 patients with Ivermectin and later AHPRA decided to fine and deregister medical professionals who questioned the official pro-vaccine narrative (www.ahpra.gov.au/News/2021-03-09-vaccinationstatement.aspx).

Emeritus Professor of Pathology at the University of Newcastle Medical School, clinical immunologist Robert Clancy, a member of the Australian Academy of Science’s Covid Expert Database and a previous Head of the Newcastle Mucosal Immunology Group, with special interest in airways infection and vaccine development, described the TGA’s Ivermectin ban as “a black day” which “compromised medical practise and the health of their fellow Australians.

Since then, there have been many studies proving beyond doubt that Ivermectin cures Covid-19 and saves lives. One of the more recent is this one – ‘MedinCell announces positive results for the SAIVE clinical study in prevention of Covid-19 infection in a contact-based population’ (www.medincell.com/ en/2023/01/05/medincell-announces-positive-results-for-thesaive-clinical-study-in-prevention-of-covid-19-infection-in-acontact-based-population/).

Banning Ivermectin, a well-known, cheap and effective medication, in favour of expensive, experimental messengerRNA “vaccines” has been an unparalleled disaster, given our post-vaccine excess mortality rate is up 16 per cent while our pandemic year 2020 mortality rate was so low those figures are not made available because of the obvious embarrassment it would bring to those in powerful positions.

But to add incredible insult to hideous injury, Bill Gates, a vaccine investor and self-admitted depopulationist, who was one of the architects of Covid hysteria and was more influential than any other individual in determining the disastrous global pandemic policies, admitted at the Lowy Institute last week that “we also need to fix the three problems with vaccines.”

“The current vaccines are not infection blocking, uh, they’re not broad so when new variants come up you lose protection, and they have very short duration particularly in the people who matter, which are old people”.

So now it’s time for the editors of our daily newspapers to admit they were wrong and to take up the fight against the tyrants who conspired to prevent our doctors curing us and who have enriched themselves and their globalist billionaire mates at the expense of our health, our sanity, and economy.

So far only the Townsville Bulletin and The Australian have opened their opinion pages even slightly to views dissenting from those of the conspirators – and that’s not enough.

Now that you know the truth, editors, it needs to be front page.

It’s probably the only way to avoid the death penalty at the now-inevitable Covid Nuremberg trials.

While doctors were the first to hang at the first Nuremberg Trials, journalists were hanged later.

Peter Campion TOLGA

The news that Mareeba parking officers have more efficient equipment which may lead to more parking fines in Byrnes Street had locals talking...

So our beautiful trees were killed - hhmmm Wasn’t that for more parking now we’re getting fined to park, really? – Julie Thomas

We have enough unaddressed crime to contend with in Mareeba without the council further debilitating us with parking woes and profiteering from them. Maybe we can become contenders for the most unfriendly town award – Helena Kanak

How long is too long? Looking in 2 shops? 4 shops? What about if you wanted to have something to eat after shopping? – Sharon Bowyang

The end of main street shopping – John N Di Pelgrave

Lol and the car thiefs?? Where are their fines and punishments???

This is ridiculous – Trish McDonald

Parties in Rotary Park also drew considerable attention on our Facebook page…

Can we please not lose sight of the real issue here. This situation is having a very negative affect on the people who live close to it. It has nothing to do with race, rather how it is disruptive behaviour. It needs to change – Stuart Newman

No one should have to suffer due to the inconsiderate behaviours of another. However alcoholism is a secondary behaviour. What can we do, as a community, to collectively address the primary issues? I believe we should all start having a lot more solution-driven conversations that leads to action which considers the needs of everyone. These are HUMAN issues after all, not RACIAL ones –Angie Hastie

The way I see things is that change has to start somewhere and maybe advertising it all may shine a brighter light on things that will make a change – Kira Jade Taylor

So why aren’t the police patrolling this park and moving these people on???? Drinking in public is illegal isn’t it? – Tosca Ann

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

Be safe around roadworks

WITH a number of roadworks currently on the Kennedy Highway, it is a timely reminder for extra care to be given when driving through roadworks—this is for your safety and the safety of the roadworkers who are improving our roads.

When driving through roadworks you must:

• move into the correct lane (or designated area) as soon as possible

• slow down (to the reduced speed limit if one has been posted)

• drive very carefully

• look out for roadworkers

• follow roadworkers’ instructions

• follow direction of the traffic controller if one is present

• watch for vehicles entering or leaving the area

• follow all signs, and

• keep a safe distance from all vehicles, barriers, equipment and roadworkers.

Roadwork signs and markers

Roadwork signs alert you to where roadworks start and end and tell you the speed limit that you must stick to in that area. Road-

work signs are official traffic signs – by law, you must follow them.

The reduce speed sign is usually the first sign you will see. It tells you to look out for upcoming roadworks or roadworkers, and to slow down to the speed limit listed on the sign.

The reduce speed sign with the roadworker warning sign tells you to expect roadworkers on or near the road and to slow down to the speed limit listed on the sign.

The traffic controller sign is used when traffic controllers are on the road. You must always follow the directions of the traffic controller.

The end roadwork sign is the last sign you will see when driving through roadworks. It marks the end of the roadworks and tells you that, after passing the sign, the road’s normal speed limit applies.

Orange cones and safety barriers are often put out within roadwork areas to guide you around hazards or show you exactly where the roadwork is currently taking place.

PROPERTY

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

The views

LOOKING for a tree change? This property offers; privacy, views, a modern home & room for cattle/horses set on 8.03ha.

The home sits proudly on an elevated location with northerly rural views of the dam and Ranges.

Surrounded by lovely gardens this 4 bedroom, 3 bathroom, 2 kitchen home is well presented & every creature comfort for a family has been added including: air-con, built in robes, 2 fireplaces, stone bench tops, a front & side deck plus a patio area big enough to entertain.

The main home features a large kitchen with views, wood fire heater; 2 bedrooms, with the main bedroom boasting air conditioning, a walk in robe and master ensuite;

second bathroom, storage room and laundry room.

The guest wing features 2 bedrooms with built-ins, veranda with views, wood heater, kitchen with stone bench tops and a modern bathroom.

In addition, the property is well fenced into 3 paddocks with cattle yards for livestock grazing. There is a 3 bay machinery shed with extensive storage as well as a lockable shed with concrete floor, power and water connected.

For more information contact agent, Morgan Brennan at Ray White Atherton on 0407 730 450 or (07) 4091 7111. www. raywhiteruralatherton. com.au/L19586763

Address: YUNGABURRA

Price: $1,550,000

Agent: Morgan Brennan Ray White Atherton

Contact: 0407 730 450 or 4091 7111

• Renovated duplex

• Each unit has 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, open plan living, built-ins and single carport • Close to hospital

• Great investment property

22 Main Street, Atherton Phone: 4091 7111 Margaret Black:

Immaculate and as new

Karen has an extremely high level of professionalism and integrity and together with her boundless wealth of real estate knowledge, made the entire process so easy and stress free for me.

Karen kept me informed throughout every stage of the sale of my property.

She was true to her word, did all she promised and more. Exemplary service, this lady “knows her stuff” and I would recommend Karen for all your real estate needs.

KAREN RANIE 0458 408 540 www.arearealestate.com.au

ONLY 5 years young is this spacious and immaculately presented as new home sitting on an established 800sqm allotment and is complete with a 7.5x5m Colourbond shed with easy vehicle access through side gates making parking your caravan, boat or trailer a breeze.

The Property Features

• 4 Good Sized Carpeted Bedrooms – 3 With Built-In Cupboards While The Master Suite Is Complete With A Walk-In Wardrobe & Private Ensuite.

• Reverse Cycle A/C Units In All Bedrooms & Living Area.

• Well Appointed & Stylish Kitchen Complete With Electric Appliances Including Dishwasher, Breakfast Bench & Room For Double Fridge

• Open Plan Living & Dining Flowing Through To Tiled Rear Patio

• Easy Care Vinyl Floor Coverings Throughout Living Area

• Stylish Main Bathroom Complete With Separate Shower & Free Standing Bath

• Tiled & Private Rear Patio

• Fully Fenced 800sqm Allotment With Double Gate & Side Access To Rear

• 7.5x5m Lockable Shed With Power & Roof Insulation

• Newly Installed 5.5kw Solar Power System

• Security Screened Throughout With Crimsafe Screen To Front Door

• Double Garage With Electric Roller Door & Sealed Floor

• Exposed Agg Driveway & Paths Around Home

• Easy Care Gardens & Turfed Lawn

For more information or a private inspection, please contact exclusive marketing agent Daimin Kochi at Main St Real Estate Atherton on 0448 916 246.

Address: 32 Bellamy Drive, TOLGA

Price: $565,000

Agent: EXCLUSIVE to Daimin Kochi Main Street Real Estate

Contact: 0448 916 246

“ Why i asked Karen to sell my home...

Multi-use residential development site

CALLING developers and investors.... this 5.1 acres (2.06 HA) is in an established residential area in Atherton and is now offered for sale. Suitable to a multitude of uses including residential subdivision, childcare, retirement village and motel the lot is elevated but near level and takes in the amazing Tableland views.

The property has both street and Kennedy Highway frontage and is located only minutes from the Atherton CBD.

Features include...

• 5.1acres (2.06HA) elevated but near level lot

• Very suitable to a multitude of uses and development options (Subject to Council approval)

• Large 5-bedroom twobathroom home with double lock up garage

• Fully fenced house yard

• 24m x 12m fully enclosed

Colorbond shed with mezzanine floor on one side and power connected

• Currently zoned low density

• Located only minutes from Atherton CBD and within a short drive to Tinaroo dam and Lakes

Properties of this size and location that are suitable to a variety of uses are rarely offered for sale and with the Atherton Tablelands

current growth rate, land with residential development opportunity is in high demand.

To obtain further information and register your interest contact Exclusive Marketing Agent Rino Gava 0427 779 086.

Address: 23-35 Marigold Street, ATHERTON

Price: $1,690,000

Agent: EXCLUSIVE to Rino Gava

Raine & Horne Atherton

Contact: 0427 779 086

A winner for the beginner in town

OWNING your own home has clear advantages over renting. So, climb onto the property ladder with this, the most affordable home in Atherton, a great little starter cottage.

This three-bedroom home has an open plan living area with polished timber floors giving the home character and warmth.

Entry level buying gets you this practical home where kids and pets can play safely in the fenced 800m² fenced allotment with large shade trees offering a cool place to relax.

Your privacy is assured in the delightful back yard. This home will appeal to first home buyers or an investor as the long term tenant is keen to stay on. Situated in a quiet and family friendly neighbourhood.

A council sports field is conveniently located just 250 metres away. Young tradies

and DIY enthusiasts muscle up and give yourself a kick start into home ownership. 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: $305,000

Agent: Trisha Jackson

Professionals Atherton

Contact: 0419 183 145

Secluded home in an outstanding location

THIS secluded, well-loved 1 acre property will quickly steal your heart! it offers peace, tranquillity, modern living, and a wonderful lifestyle for the whole family.

Fantastic opportunity for those who want the privacy while retaining the convenience of all shopping & medical amenities close by.

Property features include:

• Rendered block home built in 2008

• Large master bedroom with a walk-in robe and generous ensuite

• Bedrooms (2) & (3) with built in robes

• Office/4th bedroom

• Spacious open plan living – Enough space for the whole family!

• Modern well-appointed kitchen – Pantry, electric appliances, breakfast bar & ample bench space.

• Tiles, ceiling fans and security screens throughout home

• Main Bathroom with a bathtub, separate shower & vanity

• Internal Laundry

• Outdoor entertainment

patio overlooking gardens

– relax with the family and entertain in privacy!

• Double remote control garage + a 2 bay open carport

• Well established and low maintenance gardens

• 1 acre allotment with a

fenced yard

• Located only 5km from Atherton Town Centre

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

Address: 19A Panoramic Drive, ATHERTON

Price: $637,000

Agent: Raquel Cunzolo Sommerset Realty

Contact: 0408 983 879

An absolute stunner

UNDOUBTEDLY one of the grandest homes on the Atherton Tablelands, located on Channel Road, Walkamin; about 15 mins either side of Atherton and Mareeba and just over an hours drive to the Cairns International Airport.

Award Winning "Trickamee" was built in 2010, winning several awards in the HIA masterbuilders awards including the Australian Home of the Year Award.

Built with attention to detail and having quality fixtures and fittings installed throughout, Trickamee is one of a kind and an inspection

is a must to appreciate the grand scale of build.

The beautifully landscaped gardens add to the ambience of the location, a private 122 acres with an array of opportunities for the land; suitable for crops such as bananas & avocados. Currently planted with approximately 1000 Hass avocados, which the current owners are happy to lease back if given the opportunity. The remaining arable 95 acres is currently planted with Rhodes grass and is also suitable for grazing. A plant and machinery list can be supplied on request.

Features of the property

Tablelands

include:

• Large five bedroom split level rendered block home

• Three bathrooms all with separate toilets and main bathroom having a powder room

• Master suite with walk through robe and large glass sliding doors to access the landscaped grounds

• Open plan kitchen, dining and lounge with gas heating and air-conditioning

• Kitchen boasts a walk in pantry, two ovens, 6 burner gas cooktop, integrated dishwasher & stone benchtops to name a few features

• Spacious office with built

in cupboards and benches is the perfect work from home environment

• Internal laundry with large walk in linen cupboard

• Bi-fold windows from the kitchen compliments entertaining on the large veranda with a built in BBQ outdoor kitchen which is plumbed with gas & sink

• The fifth bedroom is on the lower ground and poses as a granny flat, having a small kitchenette with lounge and dining area; ideal for a grandparents or teenagers retreat

• Timber floors, fans, security screens and airconditioning throughout

house

• 3 phase powered 12m x 8m shed, insulated with 4 electric roller doors which connects to the house via a concrete path

• Large 23m x 9m

machinery shed with office, kitchenette and an airconditioned bedroom one end and bathroom on the other

• Tinaroo Dam channel

water supplies the properties dam; a 20 meg water licence is included and more could be negotiated if required

• Unequipped bore for added assurance

For further information or an inspection on this stunning property, please call Elders listed agent Shellie Nightingale on 0429 966 038.

Address: 105 Channel Road, WALKAMIN

Price: $4 Million

Agent: Shellie Nightingale Elders Real Estate Malanda

Contact: 0429 966 038

Come home to resort style living

YOU’LL feel like you’re on holiday every day in this stunning resort style residence.

Immaculately presented and comprising 4 bedrooms plus a stunning central living area with raked ceilings and loads of natural light incorporating the kitchen dining & lounge all overlooking the outdoor entertaining area and spectacular Balinese style gardens.

It’s inclusive of many quality features including:

• Sizeable 263m2 floor plan, fully tiled & air-conditioned throughout

• Stunning central living area with raked ceilings

• Gourmet kitchen with quality stainless steel appliances including a 900mm gas cooktop, dishwasher & separate butlers pantry

• 4 generous bedrooms

with built-in robes

• Master suite with sizeable WIR plus ensuite with his & hers shower & vanity as well as sliding door access to the patio

• Stylish main bathroom with separate plunge bath

• Laundry with built-in cabinetry & storage cupboard

• Security screens, tinted windows, blinds & locking windows throughout

• Double garage directly off the kitchen area with higher access for 4wd vehicles

• 7.2m x 6m powered colourbond shed with fans & insulation

• Substantial rear patio directly off the living area with external blinds & private garden sitting area with shade sail coverage all overlooking the Balinese style gardens

• 1021m2 allotment with veggie garden, fruit trees & auto irrigation + drip irrigation to the gardens

With all the wow factor of a resort this breathtaking home is an absolute must to inspect.

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

700 468.

Address: 27 Karobean Drive, MAREEBA

Price: Offers Over $610,000

Agent: EXCLUSIVE to Joe Torrisi Joe Torrisi Real Estate

Contact: 0417 700 468

Extremely solid and very well kept

IF you are looking for a very neat house in a central location, then look no further as 60 Mason Street, Mareeba could be the one for you!

Very solidly built, the home has rendered block external and internal walls, it has been very well looked after and with a couple of modern touches, it has all the makings of a great first home or investment.

It features three good sized bedrooms, all with ceiling fans and polished timber floors, including a very spacious master bedroom with built-in wardrobes, as well as an additional fourth room which has been closed in, currently also used as a bedroom, this could be a great kids play room, rumpus room, or an all-weather internal patio room.

The kitchen has been renovated and features mod-

For Sale

ern cabinetry and appliances, there is ample cupboard space and a really good pantry. Flowing out from the kitchen is the open plan dining and living area which has large double doors leading out to the rumpus room on one side and the front patio on the other, letting in heaps of natural light. The kitchen and living areas have vinyl flooring installed over the timber floors.

Down the hall is the bathroom which although in virtually original condition, has also been very well kept and contains both a separate shower and a bathtub. There is a handy vanity cupboard and the floors are tiled.

Just around the corner and to the rear of the home is the spacious laundry which provides access to the separate toilet and this area has

all been re-tiled with modern tiles.

Outside the features continue, with a double sized carport on one side of the home with a lockable workshop or utility/storage room included, and patios both front and back.

Currently tenanted through to July, the tenants are a credit to the property and they have kept both inside and out in great condition, with immaculate gardens out the front and a very tidy terraced area at the rear.

The very private and secure rear yard is perfect for anyone with kids or pets and it features Colorbond fencing with double gates on one side for vehicle access to the back.

Properties in central locations like this don't last

long, especially not in this market. For more information, or to book an inspection of this Mareeba home, call Remo Esposito on 0401 969 473.

Central Realty Mareeba

Contact: 0401 969 473 or 4092 2232

Welcome to Turpentine Hill

A HOME to look at in Awe and be proud of, a versatile fully renovated modern Queenslander with some original character features left for appreciation, situated on a peaceful 163 acre parcel consisting of Approx. 27 acres of cleared land and beautiful National Forest with some views of Mt Bellenden Kerr and Mt Bartle Frere. This property is something truly special, only located 17 Minutes from Malanda and 1 hour and 30 minutes to Cairns.

Top level/Main level:

• 3 bedrooms, 2 bedrooms with built ins, air conditioning to all and all have access to large timber deck

• A modern bathroom with vanity, toilet, and large bath/ shower combo

• Laundry with ample storage and stone bench tops the same as kitchen for a consistent style flow

• Spacious kitchen, stone benchtops, soft close drawers, dishwasher, gas cooktop stop & electric oven, breakfast bench looking into living area & massive walk in pantry

• Bay window seating area for cosy breakfast's looking out to the property and forestry

• Cosy living area, with

wood burning fireplace and air conditioning for comfort

• Massive wrap around timber deck to half the home providing the perfect place to relax or entertain friends and family with beautiful views of the forestry, land and some views of Mt Bartle Frere

• As second back timber deck access from kitchen with rural views and some views of Mt Bellenden Kerr

• Second living/dining area with plenty of natural light beaming through & air conditioning for comfort

Lower Level:

Here lies the ultimate master bedroom, an extended family stay area, guest room, play room for the kids, teenagers retreat or whatever you please.

With an open plan studio room layout this spacious space has been set up as a master room with own ensuite/bathroom and massive walk in robe or perfect for ample storage.

This room provides a versatile setting that can be utilised in anyway suitable to your family. It also has its own separate access from outside.

Furthermore, you'll have plenty of water all year round with the waterfall and creek. The creek supplies the wa-

ter to the home and troughs along with rainwater for backup. The 27 acres (approx.) of cleared land is sufficient to run up to 20-25 head of cattle, not too hilly to be able to have horses, goats, sheep or pigs! There's plenty of space to have your own hobby farm, grow fruit trees and vege's to be fully sustainable. It's a true dream hobby farm and it feels like you're in your own

world out there. This property is a must see to be able to apricate all the things on offer here, get In touch to organise your private inspection.

Contact agent Hayley Ainsworth at Explore Property Atherton Tablelands on 0475 444 232 for more information.

Address: 416 Gadaloff Road, BUTCHERS CREEK

Price: $1,375,000

Agent: Hayley Ainsworth

Explore Property Atherton Tablelands

Contact: 0475 444 232

TAKE A BREAK

BIG WORD SEARCH CROSSWORD

pagne and orange juice

20. any plants that grows along the ground, or vertically by means of extending stems or branches

23. a Japanese system of unarmed combat and physical training

24. a pen for livestock, especially cattle or horses on a farm or ranch

25. a lively high kicking stage dance originating in 19th-century Parisian music halls

26. a climbing plant of the pea family, widely cultivated for its colourful, fragrant flowers

Down

1. satisfy one’s thirst by drinking

2. beef and pork sausage seasoned with pepper

3. relating to Yemen or its people

Puzzle Solutions

Enter

Across

8. the part of a person’s mind that acts as a self-critical conscience, reflecting learned social standards

9. a sweet made from honey, nuts and egg white

10. exist essentially or permanently in

11. a person who is honoured with an award for outstanding creative or intellectual achievement

12. An act of throwing the ball from the sideline to restart play after the ball has gone into touch (5,2)

13. inform someone of something in a typically formal or official manner

14. a police officer of the lowest rank (6,9)

18. an alcoholic drink made from cham-

4. going in a direction that will lead to a collision with another moving object or person (9,6)

5. a soft, greasy or viscous substance used as ointment or for lubrication

6. glowing with or giving off light

7. remaining loyal and steadfast

15. present or existing from the beginning; first or earliest

16. making great demands on one’s skill, attention or other resources

17. harshness of tone or manner

19. a material thing that can be seen or touched

21. go beyond what is allowed or stipulated by a set limit

22. a person who reads The Express Newspaper

WEEKLY HOROSCOPES

Mar 21 - Apr 19

This week, there could be magical, romantic possibilities. You could fall in love with someone you’re already close with. It could even be worth dealing with any complications that come with upgrading to a relationship from a friendship.

JUN 21 - JUL 22

This week, there is uplifting energy for you. You and your sweetheart could be trying to get together but circumstances might just not be working out. Consider connecting digitally to keep the connection strong even if your schedules are opposing.

sep 23 - oct 22

This week, you could have a breakthrough. You might find yourself questioning yourself around fun, how you have it, who you have it with, how much fun you’re actively bringing into your daily routine. Maybe it’s time to shake it up and go do something!

Dec 22 - Jan 19

This week, you’re ticking off that to do list. You already work hard, but you also need to FEEL deserving of the success you have. It’s time to take your hard work and successes up a notch by acknowledging and believing your own worth.

apr 20 - may 20

This week, you could make a deep and meaningful connection. You could find that the simpler you keep communications, the better your message will be received. The energy around is excellent for spending time and energy on people you care about.

JUL 23 - AUG 22

This week, could be filled with delight. It’s all about the little things early in the week, the way the sunset it, a cute puppy you see in the street. All moments to experience and express gratitude. Wednesday is promising for romance with your sweetheart.

oct 23 - nov 21

This week, you might feel your heart flutter with excitement. Early in the week you could have a full, loud and chaotic home. You might find friends and relatives descend on you for an impromptu visit. You might balk at first but it’s probably exactly what you need.

Jan 20 - Feb 18

This week, you might acquire something of value. You could be put on the spot with a request to do something outside your comfort zone. Be brave, you might feel nervous but this is long overdue. Watch your budget, there could be a big expense coming.

May 21 - Jun 20

This week, you could receive some good news. Allow extra time when travelling, you could find delays. Bring a book and a snack and enjoy the momentary downtime. Career wise you could receive some positive news about upwards movement.

Aug 23 -Sep 22

This week, you could make a wonderful connection. It’s all about water early in the week, staying hydrated, soaking in the tub, playing in the rain, go to your local creek or waterfall. Water is cleansing for body and soul and could be exactly what you need.

nov 22 - dec 21

This week, there might be a spontaneous celebration. Travel could be delayed or even cancelled. If you’re able to put off any travel until later in the week, it might be best. This weekend looks promising for catching up with friends & family.

Feb 19 - Mar 20

This week, you’re the talk of the town. Chaos could dominate early in the week, but you’ll easily handle it and might even find some time to get some self care in. Later in the week you might be receiving compliments and admiring glances, bathe in your own glory.

ANTONIO

FALVO

16-02-1913 to 18-02-1992

Memories of you are all we have left, Of you Dad, you are the best. We miss your presence, we miss your smile, If only we could see you for a short while. We know you and Mum are looking down on us, Giving us your blessings, from up above. Love Giovanna, Salvatore, Grandchildren, Carmelina, Michelina, Danielle, Frank and all their families.

Joey

Allen Harris

01/08/70 - 17/02/07

Passed away at Wrotham Park Station

The river flows, on and on it goes, to a fisherman’s favourite waterhole.

‘Gone Fishin’.

Forever loved Mum & Stepdad Al, Allyn & Yvonne Edwards.

In Loving Memory Of

Dane Zelenika

07.02.1934 ~ 23.02.2022

A year has gone by and I still miss you more than I can possibly say.

Rest in peace.

Love, Rosa & Family

EMEDIO (Horse) NICOLOSI

20.05.45 ~ 15.02.2019

Those we love don’t go away, They walk beside us every day. Unseen, unheard, but always near, Still loved, still missed and very dear.

Your wife Bernie and Family.

FUNERAL NOTICE

WITHERS, Catherine Joan

Late of Mount Garnet. Passed away peacefully at Carinya on the 1st of February, 2023. Aged 103 years.

Much loved Mother of Leslie and Brian. Loving Grandmother of Inga and Leslie James. Joan will be sadly missed by family and friends.

Relatives and friends of Joan are respectfully invited to attend her funeral service which will be held at St Joseph’s Catholic Church, 28 Mabel Street, Atherton on Thursday 16th February, 2023 commencing at 10.30am.

Guilfoyle Funeral Services

Chapels, Crematorium & Memorial Gardens

Atherton: 4091 2147 Mareeba: 4092 1013

Local Family Owned & “Entrusted for over 70 years” www.guilfoylefunerals.com.au

Peter Bunyan

We wish to express our gratitude and appreciation to all family and friends for attending the funeral service of Peter. Thankyou for your kind expressions of sympathy, beautiful flowers and for your love and support during our time of loss.

Special thanks to our Minister Lindsay Foster, the Atherton Lions, the Atherton Turf Club and Lynette Cumming for their words and memories.

To Doctor Dan Caines and all at Alice Street Medical Centre, sincere appreciation for your kind care and support over many years.

To the Angels at Carinya, your loving care of Peter until the final moments was exemplary. Your thoughts are deeply appreciated and will always be remembered.

Lyn, Shan, Crystel, Vicki and their families.

WITH THANKS DEATH NOTICE

NERVO, Gabriella Luisa

Late of Mareeba, formerly of Marina di Carrara. Passed away peacefully on the 1st of February, 2023 at Oz Care, Malanda. Aged 85 years.

Beloved Wife of Lino (Dec.) Much loved Mother of Amilcare and Monica. Mother-in-Law of Mick Lodewyks (Dec.) and Rosanna Nervo (Dec.) and Nonna of Alexa and Jasmine Nervo. Dearly cherished long life Friend of Rita, Michael, Jacinta and Caitlin Murray.

In keeping with Gabriella’s wishes, a private cremation has taken place.

“Forever in our Hearts.”

Guilfoyle Funeral Services

Chapels, Crematorium & Memorial Gardens

Atherton: 4091 2147 Mareeba: 4092 1013

Local Family Owned & “Entrusted for over 70 years” www.guilfoylefunerals.com.au

ANDERSON, Anne Spence

Late of Tolga. Passed away peacefully on the 7th of February, 2023. Aged 77 years.

Beloved Wife of Tim. Cherished Mother and Mother-in-Law of Allison & Andy and Graham & Sue. The best Nanna of Courtney, Lachlan and Joshua.

In keeping with Anne’s wishes a private service has taken place.

Guilfoyle Funeral Services

Chapels, Crematorium & Memorial Gardens

Atherton: 4091 2147 Mareeba: 4092 1013

Local Family Owned & “Entrusted for over 70 years” www.guilfoylefunerals.com.au

DEADLINE

FOR SALE

8am - 4pm, Saturday 18th February

96 James Street, Mareeba

Books, casement windows, doors, household items and much more!

Plus Competitive Curtains Final Closing Sale

Fabrics, tracks, blinds, industrial sewing machines and large cutting tables, heaps of other stuff.

EVERYTHING MUST GO!

POSITION VACANT

EARLY CHILDHOOD TEACHER - FULL TIME

First Steps early childhood learning centre is looking for an enthusiastic Early Childhood Teacher to be a part of our outstanding team of educators. Competitive wages and leave for successful applicant. Applicants must have: Bachelor of Early Childhood Education, current Blue Card and First Aide, willingness to work as part of a team.

To apply: Call 4091 7757 or forward your resume to: samuel@firststeps.com.au

WELGER RP202 Round Baler 4200 bales since new, very good condition.

$18,000

PHONE: 0438 981 167

IRTEM 4 Row Precision Planter

Double disc, fertiliser boxes, brand new.

$25,000

We are seeking enthusiastic candidates for the following positions at our Atherton Campus:

• Secondary Teacher Aide (Approx. 13 Hours/Week)

• Casual Relief Teachers

Jubilee Christian College provides high quality P-12 education programs to students On-campus in Atherton and across Queensland, via Distance Education. Staff at JCC are caring and dedicated people who value relationships, insist on high standards and are supportive of the Aims and Ethos of a Christian School.

TATU 28 Plate, Offset Plough

$16,500

PHONE: 0438 981 167

PHONE: 0438 981 167

To find out more about this exciting opportunity visit: https://www.jubileecc.qld.edu.au/employment/ Please forward all applications to: principal@jubileecc.qld.edu.au

Applications are to include a covering letter, a current CV with 2 referees. Jubilee Christian College is an equal opportunity employer and a Child Safe organisation.

Natural Evolution Walkamin

Is seeking part-time and full-time employees for food factory. Successful applicants should be energetic and positive-minded. Training provided. A truck or forklift licence is favoured. Work in an airconditioned comfort food production facility. Good pay and conditions. Please email resumes to: office@naturalevolutionfoods.com.au

Or to organise an interview call 0409 531 413.

POSITION VACANT

Women’s Sexual Assault Survivors Group

Fortnightly: Wednesdays

9.00am - 11.00am, CWA Hall, Jack Street, Atherton FREE and welcoming (chats, coffee, craft & connection).

Please call TSAS 4091 4036 For further information

UNITING CHURCH ATHERTON

Invite you to attend the

World Day of Prayer For Taiwan

Friday 3rd March at 10.00am

Everyone welcome!

Tablelands Career Forum

Meet local employers from health and social assistance, primary industry and retail sectors

All welcome — there is something for everyone!

Employment opportunities and job placements

Traineeships, apprenticeships and work experience

In-demand skills in our region

Access to university, training, industry and community programs

10.00am–1.30pm Wednesday 1 March Merriland Hall, Atherton Showground

This project received funding from the Australian Government.

Boilermaker

Applications are invited for the position of Boilermaker to join the MSF Sugar team. This is a fixed-term full-time position located at our Tableland Mill.

Please apply via SEEK - MSF Sugar

Qualified Auto Technician/Mechanic

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

Please call Glenn: 0439 342 261 or email: edgehillservo@hotmail.com

ATHERTON BRANCH AGM

Followed by General Meeting

Friday 24th February at 2.30pm Community Hall, Jansa Court, 26 Weaver Street, Atherton ALL WELCOME!

Please email: atherton@cherishlife.org.au For

NOTICE

L.D. Lucey Memorial Park Inc. Mt Garnet Nth Qld.

Valued Reserve Trust Members, ancillary Reserve club members, regional residents, and all other Trust/Reserve stakeholders, and interested parties. This is a letter of introduction for you to read, digest and comment upon the Reserve Land Management Plan draft. (LMP)

This is the fourth draft presented to the Department of Resources (DoR) for their input, comment, direction, and guidance, dating back to 2014. The current LMP draft has now obtained preliminary approval, however for the Plan to reach finality, and become this Reserves’ model from which to function into the future, it is necessary for you to assist with any inclusions you feel could be incorporated into the document, and your reason why. You are invited to make comment, by quoting the “heading” and points numbers, and address them back to the Trustee email address mtgarnetreserve@gmail.com, who will acknowledge receipt of your comment. Please go to https://www.mtgarnetreserve.com.au/ follow the links to the document. Hard copies of this draft document will be accessible at the All-Tableland Regional Council Libraries, 15th February, 2023.

Mt Garnet Library: 22 Opal Street

Atherton Library: 16 Roberts Street

Herberton Library: 61 Grace Street

Malanda Library: 31-35 James Street

Millaa Millaa Library: 10 Main Street

Ravenshoe Library: 24 Moore Street

Yungaburra Library: Maude Kehoe Park

There will be a period of 30 days, one month, from the release of this document for you to make suggestions and present feedback. A date will then be announced for a workshop, where your suggested inclusions will receive discussion and evaluation as added content.

The date for release is 15th February, 2023 Submissions must be presented before 17th March, 2023. Workshop to be held 25th of March, 2023, 10am at the Town Hall, Mt Garnet.

The L.D. Lucey Memorial Park Inc. Management Committee, wish to thank all interested parties for your continued support of this iconic Reserve.

Succession Act 2006 s 93, Probate and Administration Act 1898 s 92 and Trustee Act 1925 s 60.

Notice Type: Notice of Intended Distribution of an Estate

Happy 10th Birthday to Harper, Mareeba

EOI-MSC2023-02

LEASE & OPERATION OF AQUATIC FACILITIES AND CARAVAN PARK

Mareeba Shire Council invites expressions of interest from suitably qualified Respondents for the Operation and Management of the Mareeba Swimming Pool, Kuranda Aquatic Centre, Dimbulah Caravan Park & Pool.

Tender documents are available on Council’s online e-procurement system, VendorPanel- https://www. vendorpanel.com.au/PublicTenders.aspx

All enquiries or clarifications must be via the online forum which will close 3 days prior to closing time. Council officers are unable to respond to verbal or emailed enquiries.

The closing time for electronic lodgement of Tenders is 2:00pm, Thursday, 2 March 2023. Regulation 228(7) of the Local Government Regulation 2012 may be applied. Tender will not be opened publicly. The lowest or any tender not necessarily accepted.

Peter Franks

Chief Executive Officer PO Box 154, MAREEBA QLD 4880

Tarzali Rural Fire Brigade

A.G.M.

Meeting will be held at the Brigade

Tuesday 28th February, 2023 at 7pm All Tarzali community residents are invited to attend. Our brigade is run by volunteer members and VOLUNTEERS ARE URGENTLY NEEDED!

Published Date: 23 January, 2023

Deceased Name: David Henry Penny ESTATE OF DAVID HENRY PENNY

Pursuant to the above and s79 of the Trusts Act 2019 (New Zealand legislation) NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that any person having any claim upon the estate of David Henry Penny, late of Mt Kooyong, NSW, who died on 21 April 2003, must send particulars of the claim to the legal representative for the estate at The Law Connection, 19 Raumati Road, Raumati Beach, Paraparaumu 5032, NEW ZEALAND, thefirm@lawconnect.co.nz, on or before the 24th day of February 2023 and NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that after such date the executor proposes to transfer or distribute the assets of the deceased among the parties entitled thereto having regard to the claims of which the executor then has notice and that in such event the executor will not as respect the property so transferred or distributed be liable to any such person of whose claim he had no notice at the time of such transfer or distribution.

Mareeba District Rodeo Association Inc. invites written Expressions of Interest for the lease of the food and beverage outlet building at Kerribee Park, 614 MareebaDimbulah Road for the purpose of carrying out a food and beverage takeaway business. Expressions of Interest response documents are available by contacting the Mareeba Rodeo Secretary on 0487 400 782 or by emailing: info@mareebarodeo.com.au.

The closing date for lodgement of Expressions of Interest is COB, February 24th, 2023.

Tableland Mill

Sweeper sprints to nationals

MAREEBA’S young

aquathlon champion Harley Sweeper has returned home from the State Championships in Hervey Bay with a fourth place medal hanging around his neck.

Although the weather conditions were tough, Sweeper proved to be tougher, enduring a heat wave and blistering winds throughout the entire race.

His mother, Melinda Sweeper, was concerned the

Juniors ready to tackle 2023

OVER 100 young aspiring rugby league stars attended Mareeba Junior Rugby League’s first training session last Tuesday as the club continues to grow and be one of the largest in the north and stand on equal footing with its Cairns counterparts.

Mareeba Junior Rugby League recorded an incredibly successful season last year with over 200 registered players and teams in every grade from U6’s to U16’s with the oldest grade winning the premiership and the U15’s making the grand finals.

Senior Gladiators coach Chris Sheppard has undertaken extra duties and decided to lead the U15’s this year with hopes to claim the title of champions.

rough waters would be a set back but Sweeper held his position until the finish line.

He will now be preparing to represent Queensland in Devonport, Tasmania for the National Championships next month – a dream come true for the young athlete.

To prepare, Sweeper will be exploring colder water across the Tablelands to climatise to the waters of Tasmania.

Sign On

Tableland Athletics ✆ Laura McLellan: 0406 245 089

✆ Andrew Ford: 0427 954 729

Facebook: Tableland Athletics Club

Website: tablelandathletics.com

Information Day; Sunday 19th February 9am -10am

Club Days Start; Sunday 26th February 8.45am-11.30am and continues each Sunday at the Tolga Reserve. For all ages from 4 years to any age, no limit Events include: Hurdles, sprints, middle and long distance. Throwing events: Discus, Shot put and Javelin. Jumps: Long, Triple and High jump.

Phone: (07) 3892 9400 or visit our website: laq.org.au

Mareeba Junior Rugby League president Raymond Srhoj said the overall goal for the club this season is the same as season’s past, get a team on the field every week.

“It is good for a small town to have a team in each grade and we can compete with Cairns too which is really good,” he said.

“Our goal is that we never have a forfeit, Mareeba does not forfeit even if we have to bring kids up from a lower grade.

“That is probably our biggest goal and just making sure the kids are safe and having fun.”

Mr Srhoj is proud to take over the mantle of president in his first year and is hoping to carry the torch lit by previous committees and continue their good work.

Basketball tips off in Mareeba

family, fun and fitness

FOLLOWING on from their most successful season in recent history, Mareeba Basketball has tipped off their 2023 season and is encouraging and new fans to get involved in the sport.

Diehard basketball fans and new players alike enjoyed the revival of Mareeba Basketball last year as the club offered basketball to all interested players across male and female competitions from five years and up.

Now heading into 2023, the committee is hoping to go from strength to strength and offer another amazing season with some hopeful new additions to the format in the works.

Club treasurer Andy Harris the season was already looking promising with a healthy number of players turning up to the come and try days last week.

“We are hopeful on building on last year’s success and we were excited to see the numbers that turned up to our open days last week,” he said.

“We are hopeful that more people will come along and play as the season progresses.

“Basketball is a fun and exciting game and our club is open and welcomes players of all ages and ability.”

Despite the recent resurrection of the club, there is still a need for volunteers and anyone interested is encouraged to contact the committee.

“The Mareeba club is a small club run by volunteers and our aim is to give everyone the opportunity to play the game we love regardless of age or ability,” Mr Harris said.

“Additionally, we aim to keep fees as low as possible given the cost-of-living pressures everyone is under at the moment, for example, to register a child over 10 years old will cost $150 for the entire year.”

If you would like to register your interest in volunteering, please contact the executive committee at mareebabasketballinc@gmail.com

Looking into the future the club is hoping to host some inter-town competitions and either upgrades to their existing hall on Walsh Street or an entirely new facility.

Mareeba Gladiator junior player Tyler Srhoj throwing a pass at training.

Harley Sweeper took out fourth place in the aquathlon State Championships and will be heading to nationals in Tasmania next month.

SPORT

Atherton secures home semi

AFTER failing to make it into finals last year, Atherton first grade has redeemed themselves and fully secured a place in the finals fight with a home semi-final after winning against Cassowary Coast at Loder Park on Saturday.

Cassowary Coast won the toss and put the home team in to bat in a match reduced to 30 overs due to a wet ground from the previous two days rain.

After the early loss of Dan Parnell, Chris Adams and in-form skipper Tom Boorman put together a 64-run partnership in good time.

This set the stage for Mason Blaney and Ben Vikionkorpi to hit out late in the innings and got Atherton to a very defendable total of 8/188 at the end of their innings.

Chris Adams top scored with 51 and Boorman added 35 at better than a run a ball.

The home side’s attack started well, controlling the run rate and picking up the odd wicket with the game looking to be over at the drinks break.

Rhys Camilleri had a red hot go at getting the visitors over the line with a fantastic knock of 85 from just 51 balls faced but he was fighting a lone battle.

Good early work from the Atherton seamers left the Cassowary Coast middle order with too much to do and they ended 19 runs short, giving Atherton the win and securing a home semi-final.

With Atherton’s first grade side knocking up a successful season, coach Shane Legge believes the early performances of Boorman and his continual good form set

the tone for the entire season.

“Tommy’s hundred against Rovers early on was a major point for us because we stole that game when we shouldn’t have – it was undoubtably a match-winning performance,” Legge said.

“You lose that game and it’s a very different situation so that was certainly a pivotal point, they went on to beat Barron the next week and from there the belief started.

“I am very happy to say they have exceeded my expectations.”

With Mulgrave losing to ladder leaders Norths, the Atherton side have nailed down second place on the final Cricket Far North first grade points table.

Atherton will host Mulgrave this Saturday at Loder Park for the right to take on Norths in the CFN first grade grand final.

Despite last year’s premiers sitting below Atherton in third and Norths comfortably leading the ladder, Legge still believes Mulgrave to be the benchmark team this season.

“They haven’t had all their guns on board and when they’ve got everyone on the park they are a completely different side, they are not the third best in the comp and I still believe they are the benchmark,” he said.

“With the rep season all over and having their best players back you are going to see a different side.”

The team is calling upon local supporters to come along to the game, with home support being vital to help them forge on to the last game of the season.

Batsman Logan Poggioli chasing the runs at Loder Park on Saturday.