The Express Newspaper 17th May 2023

Teams inspire all in 20-year race

BY ELLIE FINK

A TEAM of Mareeba school boys with a “go hard or go home” attitude have smashed The Great Wheelbarrow Race record with a time of 6 hours, 24 minutes and 41 seconds after a successful weekend of racing for the 20th year.

Tune Squad was a close second in last year's competition and the team knew coming first was their only option this year, so they began training 12 months ago.

Last year, the boy’s overall time was 7 hours, 31 minutes and 32 seconds – nearly an hour faster than last year.

Race chair Cr Locky Bensted said Tune Squad had been working hard to get to this point and their dedication to stick together as a team for a year gave him hope for the next generation.

“Tune Squad wanted to win last year so they trained all year after the last race and fundraised whilst doing that,” he said.

“It was great to see them put in that hard work and if that’s our future generation, the future is in good hands.”

The second place winner this year was past champions Fit Bucks, with a total time of 06:28:28 and a team motto of "we're all a few years older than we used to be, so we'll see how we go!".

When it came to fundraising, it was team Wendy’s Joker Joes, who raised the most in this year’s competition, with a total of $31,552 for the Cancer Care Hub in Cairns.

Overall, teams raised $182,652 all together for their chosen causes, $51,197 more than last year's total.

Being the 20th race, there was an air of excitement amongst all the teams and Cr Bensted said he was proud of everyone’s efforts.

“It was absolutely sensational this year. The committee went above and beyond to bring the race together and we thank all

the sponsors, Mareeba Shire Council, the volunteers and most importantly the teams who got involved,” he said.

“Watching those teams come across the finish line and the realisation on their face was incredible.

“Knowing the personal battles and knowing everyone’s journey and why they are here and to see what they have achieved is something else.”

Two teams which stood out to Cr Bensted throughout the entirety of the race were To Chillagoe to Cole and Wheelin’ for Willy.

To Chillagoe For Cole won the hearts of many on the Wheelbarrow Way and were the well-deserving recipients of The Sandy Butler Memorial Team Spirit award.

Running the 140km with a total time of 10 hours, 7 minutes and 39 seconds in honour of Cole Wyatt who tragically lost his life in 2020, the team inspired many and had almost everyone tearing up during Cole’s mum and team member Lenore Wyatt’s speech at Sunday’s presentations.

“The biggest achievement would have to be winning the Sandy Butler Team Spirit Award – we had a massive team spirit, and we had a huge support team which is what we are all about,” she said.

“Everyone wanted to be there for Cole and to honour him, there was so much comradery, and we had a picture of Cole on the bus and in the wheelbarrow, so it was like he was with us every step of the way.

“I feel ‘mum proud’ of our team and the finishing on Mother’s Day really topped it for myself personally.”

Mrs Wyatt also congratulated their sister team The Jigglypuff Joggers, the volunteers and the committee for their hard work throughout the race.

Team Wheelin’ for Willy smashed the female category this year, crossing the finish line with a total time of 8 hours 40 minutes and 39 seconds in honour of young Willy Murdoch who lost his life in 2021.

“Those Wheelin’ for Willy ladies were so fun and so inspiring – their team spirits were there,” Cr Bensted said.

Other highlights during this year’s race were the Pipe Band, with the team of four racing every day whilst also performing at the downtown parade, each night and on Mother’s Day morning. Their efforts were recognised with a new award presented to them by the committee.

“It was a great event, and all competitors should give themselves a huge pat on the back,” Mr Bensted said.

Charges waived for new vet surgery

A NEW veterinary surgery that will be the largest in the region will not have to pay $66,640 in infrastructure charges to Tablelands Regional Council after having the fees waived under the council’s investment incentive scheme.

Under its policy introduced in June last year, council can waive infrastructure charges to encourage the construction of affordable mediumdensity development and the development of “strategically important industries” which has been applied to Tableland Veterinary Services’ (TVS) new project to be established on AthertonHerberton Road.

Council officers deemed the business met the requirements of the policy because of its involvement in research and education, and also considered the increased services that would be provided to the agriculture industry, established research partnerships and the new jobs that would be created.

“TVS provides veterinary services across the Tablelands region, supporting primary producers including dairy farmers, beef cattle farmers and piggeries,” a council report stated.

“It will mostly cater for small animals but will also support the TVS group in its delivery of services to all animals especially primary producers. It will also be used for education and training purposes, catering to students and education providers. TVS has a significant educational and research focus which has resulted in TVS becoming a recognised provider in undergraduate and post-graduate training.”

According to the report, TVS currently trains all final year James Cook University (JCU) Bachelor of Veterinary Science students and have done so since the start of the course in 2006.

“TVS hosts JCU students in groups of 6-8 for three-week rotations for approximately 40 weeks of the year. Two TVS staff lecture within the Bachelor of Veterinary Science at JCU,” the report stated.

“In 2022, TVS were approached by City University Hong Kong Jockey Club’s School of Veterinary Medicine and similarly hosted their final year students for a two-week placement in November. This contract has been extended for five years.”

Team 'To Chillagoe for Cole' was awarded the Sandy Butler Memorial Team Spirit Award in 2023.

Celebrating small business

FROM humble beginnings in her home’s garage, Mareeba local Angela Nason never thought her small business that provides freshly picked, locally grown produce from paddock to plate, would grow to what it is today.

Across the state, thousands of small businesses just like Angela’s are being celebrated as part of Queensland Small Business Month.

The idea for Tablelands to Tabletop was thrown at Angela during Covid, as farmers had nowhere to send their produce as cafes and restaurants closed their doors.

The freshly picked, locally sourced produce proved a massive hit across the region and as a result, Angela’s customer and producer list has grown exponentially.

“Three or four farmers back then has turned into 150 producers on our books, from 40 deliveries a week to averaging 150 a week and a 4000 strong customer base,” she said.

“I also employ 10 locals, six after-school junior and four senior staff – a big change from just me out of my garage.

“Never in my wildest dreams did I ever think I was going to be running a produce company but it is in my blood – I am a farmer’s daughter and all my family are farmers.

“There was a need for it, it is important and that’s how it all fell together.”

Mareeba Shire Cr Lenore Wyatt said as agriculture is the shire’s biggest economic driver, it is great to see a small business have share in that pie.

“There was a need and she has filled that need, helping both our agricultural businesses and locals –I’ve seen Angela do amazing things, selling crops of tomatoes that people don’t take,” she said.

“She has a knack for social media which I think in small business, you really do need – some people don’t like social media, but I think it is necessary in small business for promotion.

"Angela is just one of the many small businesses in our shire that have really flourished and it is great to see.”

Community cries out for CCTV

BY RHYS THOMAS

CALLS for a street-wide CCTV network that police can remotely access and monitor have resurfaced after an assault in Mareeba’s main street was caught on a business’s personal camera system.

A savage assault of two men who came to the defence of another was caught on a Byrnes Street business’s CCTV camera which led to seven of the perpetrators being charged. Following the attack, locals and the Mareeba Chamber of Commerce have called for a public system to be re-installed in Mareeba’s main business sector.

Chamber president Joe Moro believes crime in Mareeba is out of hand and the re-installation of a widespread, public CCTV system is crucial for the safety of residents and businesses.

Police previously had access to a small CCTV network that was remotely linked to the local station however that system was discontinued around

seven years ago.

“It has been a long request from businesses and the chamber to have a CCTV system installed like the one that was previously in Mareeba, either the same or better,” Mr Moro said.

“We have advocated to all levels of government for years however it is my understanding that funding is the issue and for whatever reason, Mareeba does not qualify. The community is crying out for CCTV, crime is escalating and it is urgent we have a new system installed to assist police.”

Mareeba Police Station Officer-in-Charge Senior Sergeant Derek Garner believes a CCTV network for the main street would be highly beneficial for officers to gather evidence of crimes, and would serve as a deterrent for potential offenders.

“If it was a system that we could monitor, then it would also assist us in identify arising issues that we might be able to nip in the bud before they eventuate,” he said.

The previous CCTV network was sponsored by Mareeba Shire and had cameras installed in areas like the old fire station (now Q.I.T.E) outside of the Anthill Hotel and at the skatepark.

“Those cameras were wirelessly linked back to the station and we were able to view the images in real-time and also if we needed to download imagery for evidence purposes, we could do that,” Snr Sgt Garner said.

The old system was installed after council secured grant funding in 2012, however it was then disabled and removed just a few short years later. Police have since had talks with council about the possible installation of a new system.

“We have had lengthy discussions with stakeholders, council mainly, about how CCTV could be utilised in the future but at this stage we have not come to any consensus,” Snr Sgt Garner said.

“The system was a handy tool for us and at the end of the day, it is a valuable asset in any commu-

nity for that community’s safety.”

The original system was removed by council after “the equipment had become outdated and relocating it was not feasible,” however businesses are now able to install their own CCTV systems with the support of council.

“Council has introduced the Mareeba Community Safety Enhancement Program to expand the surveillance of public spaces, and this includes live monitoring of these spaces by the Mareeba Police Station,” Mayor Angela Toppin said.

“The program identifies hotspots in Mareeba and council has been engaging with business operators in the identified locations since the commencement of the program in 2018.

“Several businesses have received council support for expanding existing CCTV or lighting and the installation of new systems.”

n See Vocal Local, Page 38

Angela Nason has grown her business, Tablelands to Tabletop, drastically over the few short years she has been operating.

Week showcases the ‘change makers’

DIANA Russell, Margaret McCreath and Miche Raccoursier are just three of the thousands of volunteers in the region who are being celebrated as part of National Volunteers Week (15-21 May).

The week is aimed at acknowledging the generous contribution of volunteers and highlighting the critical role they play in our communities.

Like other local governments throughout the nation, Tablelands Regional Council is fortunate to have the services of volunteers to help run community facilities and will be lauding those in the community who step up to make things happen.

“This year’s theme is ‘The Change Makers’,” Deputy Mayor Kevin Cardew said.

“This recognises that our volunteers are change

makers across our nation.

“In our region, our volunteers are integral to the promotion and the smooth running of our galleries, information centres, museums, nurseries, events, emergency services, and community, environmental and sporting organisations.

“But we’ve always got room for more! We are looking for people interested in helping in our visitor centres, galleries and plant nursery.”

Community Revegetation Nursery volunteer Diana Russell is involved in processing seeds, weeding, washing pots, data collection/entry and seed collection.

“I love working with plants and gaining local plant knowledge,” she said.

“I enjoy the social contact with like-minded people, and the variety of jobs to choose from depending on how sociable I feel.”

Margaret McCreath has been a volunteer at the Atherton Tablelands Information Centre for 11 years and is motivated by meeting new people and other volunteers.

“It’s great meeting people and helping make their time in our region more enjoyable,” she said.

“As a traveller myself, it’s great to get tips about other regions too.”

As a new volunteer, Miche Raccoursier also loves meeting new people and sharing her knowledge of the local area.

“I always wanted to work in the tourism indus-

try but instead I worked for a German bank,” she said.

“At 57-years-old ,I applied to work as a volunteer at the Atherton Tableland Information Centre and I love it! I will continue to volunteer as long as I can.”

Cr Cardew said there were many rewards for volunteers.

“Being a volunteer gives you a chance to meet new people, make a difference to our community and environment, contribute to the growth and promotion of our region, and spend time with of like-minded people,” he said.

Those who wish to volunteer can do so by registering at www.trc.qld.gov.au/volunteer

Information Centre volunteer Miche Raccoursier with Japanese visitors Hisako Semba and Yukari Watanabe.

Community Revegetation Nursery volunteer Diana Russell loves working with plants.

Atherton Tablelands Information Centre volunteer Margaret McCreath loves meeting people.

Safety focus for local roads

BY RHYS THOMAS

DANGEROUS intersections and flooding causeways on major transport links have been top priority for a local traffic advisory committee dedicated to making the Mareeba Shire’s roads safer.

Council’s Traffic Advisory Committee has worked in partnership with the Department of Transport and Main Roads over the past few months to rectify a number of concerns including the dangerous Yuruga Nursery turnoff, the Bilwon Road slip lane off the Mulligan Highway and river-monitoring cameras for Trimble’s Crossing.

The department has begun action on both the Bilwon Road slip lane and Trimble’s Crossing however concerns around the Yuruga Nursery turnoff are still to be addressed.

Vice chair of the committee Cr Lenore Wyatt has witnessed many issues with the Bilwon Road slip lane first-hand.

“I brought up concerns about the Bilwon Road slip lane over four years ago because I drive it all the time and I’ve seen a lot of near misses – I have also had people from the community contacting me with their concerns,” she said.

“That has been on our agenda for over four years and we have just had confirmation that they (the department) have done the designs and hopefully be finishing it by the end of this year, but I’m not holding my breath.

“The other thing I have lobbied for which I haven’t seem to be able to get up is an 80km/h zone in Biboohra because you are actually going past houses and turnoffs, but that hasn’t really got any traction.”

Trimble’s Crossing will be addressed much sooner, with the department seeking to install cameras before the next wet season. The crossing is located on the Burke Development Road, a major transport link that links Mareeba and the coast to inner areas of the Gulf of Carpentaria.

The department has cameras for monitoring river levels and road condition at both Furgerson’s

Crossing and the Lynd on the same roads, hundreds of kilometres apart, with Trimble’s situated right in the middle.

Trimble’s is one of the steepest crossings in the shire and also the lowest. Trucks travelling the road may get through Furgerson’s unscathed but be stopped at Trimble’s due to the water level –without cameras, there is no sure-fire way to know.

“Trimble’s can consistently stay at levels of 7-9m over the crossing for long periods of time so if we get cameras there, people can actually monitor it and not take the drive,” Cr Wyatt said.

“Having these cameras allow people to be more informed and travel safely on remote western roads.

“The department have stated to us that they will install cameras before the next wet season, which is huge. It has been a very quick process – I brought it up at the December meeting and there has been a really quick turnaround.”

However, the turnoff into Yuruga Nursery remains a concern and the department has given no assurance as to when it will become a focus.

The main concern is when motorists travelling from Mareeba to Atherton attempt to turn into the nursey access. Cars need to stop in the middle of an overtaking lane to turn into the nursery, causing drivers to slam on their brakes and many near misses have been seen as cars come out of Yuruga heading to Atherton as they cross the highway and enter into the overtaking lane.

“It is confusing and very dangerous and I have had some people that live near the area, hear and see the near misses,” Cr Wyatt said.

“They (the department) are going to have to do some traffic monitoring or traffic study there to work out how they can mitigate those risks.

“Nothing is going to change overnight but it has been flagged.”

Cr Wyatt said council could only lobby Main Roads to make changes, however it was ultimately up to the department on when, how and where they spend their money.”

Plastic bags to go

MAREEBA shoppers who use the Coles supermarket will have to remember to bring their reusable bags to the centre or buy new paper ones after the company announced it was ceasing the sale of its plastic bags.

The remaining supply of soft-plastic bags will be run down in the coming weeks before Coles ceases the sale of all soft-plastic bags by the end of June.

Coles says the most sustainable option is to bring your own reusable bag to the supermarket, but for those who forget, 100 per cent recycled paper bags that can be recycled kerbside will be available for sale, as well as other reusable options.

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Mareeba Shire Councillor and vice-chair of the Traffic Advisory Committee, Lenore Wyatt, with the sign for Trimble’s Crossing where the new cameras will be installed.

Help to provide guiding lights

LANDING a plane in the middle of the night, on a rough, graded, outback airstrip, hours from anywhere, is a challenge for almost any pilot, and sometimes, they even have to follow burning, diesel-soaked toilet rolls that highlight the airstrip.

Now, the Royal Flying Doctor Service are calling on locals to help through the Guiding Lights Appeal, which gives people a chance to contribute to the provision of life saving emergency equipment such as airstrip lantern kits and medical chests, to regional and remote communities.

Across Queensland, there are around 1200 airstrips currently registered with the RFDS, many of which are still lit by unreliable battery-powered LED lights or diesel-drenched toilet rolls.

That’s why RFDS Senior Pilot Nick Tully shared his bright idea – diesel-lit lanterns.

“The idea was born a few years ago after an emergency retrieval near Betoota, where several of the battery-powered LED lights used on the airstrip failed,” Mr Tully said.

“Station owners were struggling to keep the LED lights maintained, and of course, as soon as you forget about them, that’s when you need them, and they don’t work.

“After some research, we decided to go back to sets of kerosene lights which is where the RFDS Lantern Kits came from. We figured if we could offer diesel lights, there’s always diesel and a match on a property.”

The specialised diesel lanterns can be used by station owners to manually light a 1200m runway for pilots to land and take off safely.

The lanterns are supplied in kits with easy-to-follow instructions and include a list of common questions the RFDS pilot might ask before and after landing.

Mother-of-three Heidi Mackenzie knows only too well how important a medical chest and lantern kit can be in a crisis and has had to light an emergency runway using toilet rolls to help the RFDS land at her Plevna Downs sheep and cattle station.

Heidi assisted with an emergency retrieval in 2021 when a staff member was involved in a serious motorcycle accident, and on a separate occasion, was also airlifted out herself with her 12-day-old baby.

“Toilet rolls only last an hour or so, but the lanterns can stay lit for up to 24 hours which gives everyone more time to get the patient stable and transported safely for takeoff without having to relight the airstrip," she said.

The RFDS is asking for locals to make a donation by going to www.donate.rfdsqld. com.au/guiding-lights

One of the diesel-lit lanterns that will make it easier and safer for the RFDS to land at remote airstrips at night.

Unique CSIRO site up for sale

BY RHYS THOMAS

A PIECE of Atherton’s history is now up for sale, with the CSIRO site on Maunds Street being listed by a local real estate agency after the research facility closed its doors two years ago.

The CSIRO laboratory in Atherton stood tall for decades as a beacon for research and its expansive Arboretum which houses hundreds of rare and unique rainforest trees remains its centrepiece.

In 2021, it was announced that the long-standing research facility would close its doors and the majority of its staff and resources would be relocated to the Townsville facility.

Locals were shocked upon receiving the news about the site’s relocation and many would still like to see the facility utilised, including resident Alan Bragg.

“On the site are many useful buildings suitable for State Government offices and for community organisations,” he said.

“Let us hope that we have political and public support to secure the site and the trees and that the past title of cooperative prevails.”

The site was initially purchased in 1969 for the former Department of National Development, Forestry and Timber Bureau and the first laboratory buildings were constructed a few years later during 1971.

CSIRO acquired the site in 1976 with various

constructions or extensions occurring after the acquisition.

The property was primarily used as a research facility where local scientists and researchers provided expertise in the biogeography, ecology, taxonomy and behaviour of terrestrial and aquatic vertebrates and plants, in weed and feral animal management, and in other natural resource management concerns over the years.

The facility is mainly known for its work in the collection of rare and unique trees which all live in the Arboretum.

Mr Bragg said that in the late 1960s, the Department of Forestry Research branch in Atherton recognised the need for a system to be developed to identify the rainforest trees of north Queensland and initially a card system was developed to do this.

“The mammoth task in completing this came in 1993 when a computer version was published by the CSIRO providing information to enable identification of over 1000 taxa in some 80 families.

“In describing the many aspects of plant identification, individual plant seed was also collected, propagated, raised, individuals planted, and position mapped on the CSIRO grounds.

“They exist today as mature specimens, a rare legacy which may never be repeated and should never be lost.”

A CSIRO spokesperson said the property of-

fered a unique opportunity for those seeking to create new ventures or enhance existing ones.

“It provides an excellent opportunity for educational institutions and businesses who are looking to invest in the region’s future,” she said.

“Ultimately, decisions on the future of the site

will be made by the new owner, and any contract for sale will require the purchaser to consider heritage issues and engage with Queensland Heritage.”

The site is being sold by First National Atherton. For more information call 4091 1177.

Local producers make connection with food buyers

FOOD producers from the Tablelands were among 32 food and beverage exhibitors from throughout the region at last week’s 2023 Taste of Tropical Queensland Showcase in Cairns.

The event attracted around 80 buyers and distributors, with 60 per cent of buyers present based in overseas markets across Asia and the Middle East.

The Taste of Tropical Queensland event connects both international and domestic buyers with Queensland exhibitors across packaged goods, food and beverage, seafood and meat products.

The exhibition in Cairns marks the fourth itera-

tion of the Taste of Queensland, with $18.5 million in export outcomes generated since the first in 2019.

Minister for Trade and Investment Cameron Dick said Queensland had a global reputation as a clean, green and reliable source of incredible food and beverage products.

“The exhibitors on show at Taste of Tropical Queensland are our state’s best and have the necessary experience, expertise and creativity to deliver vibrant products that appeal to international buyers,” he said.

Skybury Plantations general manager Candy

Hospital open day

MacLaughlin was among those who exhibited at the event.

“The Taste of Tropical Queensland affords producers like us the opportunity to share ideas and connect our glorious region to buyers from around the world.”

Queensland has the largest area of agricultural land of any Australian state, with farmers producing more than 120 types of fruit and vegetables.

Exports from Far North Queensland in seafood, food and beverage and agricultural products accounted for more than $172 million last year alone.

LOCALS will get a chance to explore the new Atherton Hospital at an open day to be held this Saturday.

The hospital features a new main entrance, and a separate entrance to the Emergency Department, both accessed from Louise Street.

The open day will be held between 10am and 2pm so people can see the facility and understand where to go when they need the hospital’s services.

Everyone is invited to come along and see the new hospital.

An aerial view of the CSIRO site in Atherton, which features an arboretum, is now up for sale.

COMMUNITY UPDATE

WHEELBARROWWAYWATCHERSWOWED

GreatWheelbarrowRace,andthecelebrationofthe twentiethanniversaryyear.Councilwouldliketo thanktheCommittee,Councilstaffandcountless volunteersonanincrediblejobinbringingthisevent together.

Theracehasevolvedoverthepasttwentyyears,and itwaswonderfultobebackontheroadtowitnessthe enthusiasmthiseventbringstotheShire.TheRace hasalwaysbeenamotivationformanytoraisemoney fortheirchosencharityorcause,andthisyear $182,652wasraised,bringingthetotalamountraised overtheyearsto$2,536,864.

CommitteeChairCrBenstedsaidtheracesawthe returnofsomefamiliarfaceswiththeadditionofa numberofnewteams."TheroadtoChillagoewasas gruellingasever,butall38teamsfoughthardand threerecordswerebroken."

"Lastyear’swinnersRustyWheels,weredethronedby TuneSquadinarushtothefinishline,andIwouldlike tocongratulatealltheteamswhocameoutandjoined usontheWheelbarrowWay,”CrBenstedsaid.

Thewinnersofthe categorieswere,AngelaWillettfor thesolocategory,Ebony&IvoryfortheDuo'sand Missy'sDonorsfortheTrio's.

FitBucks,backforthesixthyearinarow,were crownedthecampionsinthemen'scategoryand Wheelin'forWillybroketherecord,andtookthewin inthefemalecategory.Dad'sArmywerebackthis yearasthewinnersoftheover55'scategory,withan averageageof77yearsold.QFRSBlazerswerethe winnersoftheCorporateCategoryandbrokethe CorportateServicesCategoryrecordbyoveronehour!

Asalways,theschoolswerecompetingforthe podiumpositionandthefastestteamacrossthe linewasTuneSquadfromMareebaStateHigh. CAArchitectsfromCairnswerebackforthe secondyearandwerethewinnersinthesocial category.

“Withatotallyuniquesenseofcamaraderieand fun,competitorsareencouragedtofundraisefor theirchosencharitiesandtheraceprovidesvital supportforthesmallercommunitiesinour Shire."

"Ifyouhaveeverthoughtaboutgivingit ago,I inviteyoutojoinusontheroadin2024,”Cr Benstedconcluded.

MAREEBASHIRELIBRARYSERVICE

Therearefourlibrarieslocatedwithinthe MareebaShire,allprovidinganextensivevariety ofmaterialstoborrowincludingbooks,videos, DVDs,musicCDs,magazines,audiobooks, newspapersandgames.Internetandcomputer access,photocopyingand children’sactivitiesare alsoavailable.

Asthefourlibrariesareallpartoftheoneservice, youcanpickupanddropoffresourcesatallfour librariesinterchangeably.

Allfourlibrariesoffervariousprogramsthat includes,Storytime,MahJong,Craft-a-Noon andWritingGroups.

TofindoutmoreabouttheLibraryService, readtheLibraryGuideavailableonCouncil's website.

ScantheQRCodeforrace resultsandphotos.

CelebratingLocalArtandCulture

MareebaShireCouncilwillassistfour community-ledartsandcultureprojectswith theannouncementofthesuccessful recipientsoftheRegionalArtsDevelopment Fund(RADF)CommunityGrantRoundfor 2023.

RADFisapartnershipbetweenthe QueenslandGovernmentandMareebaShire Counciltosupportlocalartsandculturein regionalQueensland.

TheMareeba RADFProgramhascontributed significantlytoprovidingopportunitiesfor artiststodeveloptheirskillsandthegeneral publictoparticipateinarangeofartsand culturalactivities.

Council’slatestgrantroundclosedattheend ofFebruaryandapplicationswerereviewed bytheCommitteeaccordingtothe assessmentcriteria.Projectstothevalueof $10,117wereapprovedandthesuccessful applicants are:

CentreforAustralasianTheatre–Avatarin theMultiverseYouthPerformance$3,000 GulfSavannahNRM–Earth&Country IndigenousArtCelebration$3,000 KatePrynne–AdvancedGlassMasterclass $1,500

KurandaNeighbourhoodCentre–Paint theNest$2,617

Deputy Mayor Cr Kevin Davies Cr Lachlan (Locky) Bensted Cr Daniel (Danny) Bird Cr Mary GrahamCr Mario MlikotaCr Lenore Wyatt KevinD@msc.qld.gov.au

Angela Toppin

ThispastweekendsawthereturnoftheBendigoBank

2023Winners-TuneSquad

CrDavies,CrBensted,Mick BorziandMayorToppin

DadsArmywalkingintheparade

Unique truck tells indigenous story

A LOCAL business has received a one-ofa-kind indigenous art wrapped truck that depicts the connection and gathering of communities, courtesy of Volvo, to be presented and displayed at the Brisbane Truck Show this week.

Family-owned and operated transport company, Swiss Line Transport, received a brand-new Volvo Globetrotter Euro 6 wrapped in a unique artwork created by Ipswich-based artist Jacob Sarra after owner Andre Voegeli put forward an application.

The artwork took 25 hours to create and symbolises Volvo’s commitment to reconciliation, the company's acknowledgement of traditional custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community.

Andre went up against numerous, large, well-established transport companies across the state in a bid to receive the truck.

In the end, it was Andre’s own personal story and connection with indigenous culture that led him to receive the special, oneof-kind vehicle.

Andre spent much of his youth travelling through remote indigenous communities in the Cape and Kimberly areas with a soon to be lifelong friend who was an Aboriginal tour guide at the time.

He was taken through many sacred sights throughout and while listening to the cultural stories, Andrew learned the importance of cultural respect for the people and places of Australia.

“When I came to Australia as a young lad, I had the chance to meet and work with Aboriginal communities in the Kimberly, Kowanyama and Pormpuraaw,” he said.

“I worked in the tourism industry and I met some lovely people including one of my best friends, Larry Ford, an indigenous man who lives and works in the Kimberly at present.”

The new truck is the pride of Andre’s fleet and he hopes to use it as a talking point to create discussion around connection and community of all cultures in Mareeba and

surrounding areas.

“I gave Volvo my story, they asked other companies to do the same and we never thought we would be the ones to receive this truck,” Andre said.

“We are a small company with only seven trucks, a little fish in a big ocean and we got it.

"I want to do the right thing with it, when driving the truck you are representing the story and it’s not mine, it’s the artist’s

Knuth demands action on crocs

A QUEENSLAND Crocodile Authority should be created and established in Cairns to manage crocodile populations in the north, according to Member for Hill Shane Knuth.

Mr Knuth said Katter’s Australian Party (KAP) had been long-term advocates for significant changes to the management plan to tackle the exploding crocodile population in North Queensland.

“As we already know, North Queenslanders simply cannot trust governing from Brisbane on issues that need to be fixed locally,” he said.

“I don't hear of too many crocodiles in the Brisbane River or on the Sunshine or Gold Coast, so it makes sense for the QCA would be established in Cairns to self-manage the issue and proactively pursue programs to keep numbers in control and reduce the risk of attacks.

advisory committee established to represent indigenous communities, tourism businesses and other related stakeholders.

Mr Knuth said the move was necessary, given the crocodile population was “exploding” in North Queensland with constant reports of crocodiles on popular beaches, inland waterways and around boat ramps.

“We acknowledge we are never going to completely eliminate the threat, but we can reduce the threat through annual, controlled, concentrated removal programs to limit the frequency of crocodile attacks in well populated areas, making it safer for people to use our waterways and beaches,” he said.

“North Queenslanders just want management that gives us back our popular beaches and waterways and that always seems to exclude any program on controlling crocodile numbers."

and it brings people together.

“I drove it down to Innisfail and indigenous boys gave me heaps of thumbs ups, they really enjoyed it.”

The truck featured in the recent Great Wheelbarrow Race downtown parade and is set to be officially revealed at the Brisbane Truck Show running from 18-21 May.

Anyone interested to have the truck attend their event or be displayed can contact Andre on 0457 816 354.

“Even a State Government commissioned independent panel recommended, over nine months ago, the ‘annual removal of a number of 2.4m-plus crocodiles in Queensland's populated east coast for several years, in addition to problem crocodile removal,’ however nothing has been done.”

Mr Knuth says he will be tabling the KAP's Crocodile Control and Conservation Bill 2023 into Parliament this year which would seek to establish the Queensland Crocodile Authority.

The organisation would administer all programs related to crocodile management, with an

KAP State Leader and Member for Traeger Robbie Katter firmly believes Queensland’s crocodile populations should be controlled and, in some instances, culled, similarly to how kangaroos, wild dogs, cats and horses are managed.

“The fact that you can cull dogs, cats, horses, pigs and kangaroos but not man-eating crocodiles is the height of environmental madness,” he said.

“The answer to this is simple – we need to control the numbers. We don’t advocate going overboard but thinning them out will absolutely make a difference."

Swiss Line Transport owner Andre Voegeli is proud to be awarded a new one-of-akind Indigenous art wrapped truck.

Wine, spirit bottles worth cash

GLASS wine and spirit bottles will be eligible for a 10-cent refund under Queensland’s Containers for Change program from 1 November.

In an Australian-first, the State Government will expand its popular program to include glass wine and spirit bottles.

The commitment to expand the scheme follows an extensive consultation period which revealed that 98 per cent of participants were in favour of more containers being made eligible for refunds through the program.

Since its launch in 2018, more than 6.4 billion

containers have been recovered through its 360 collection points.

Before the program started, only 18 per cent of beverage containers were being recovered and recycled in Queensland, according to Environment Minister Meaghan Scanlon.

“Since then that number has grown threefold, with Queenslanders having returned more than six billion containers and receiving $630 million in return. Stacked end to end, the recovered containers would run the length of Queensland about 300 times," she said.

Bursary program provides new opportunity for students

INDIGENOUS students from across the Wet Tropics region can apply for a grant to help with studies and future employment opportunities in environmental and agricultural fields.

Terrain NRM’s Natural Capital Fund Indigenous Education Bursary Program is open to students doing university or TAFE courses focused on the environment, agriculture, natural resource management, conservation or sustainable development.

Ty’a Dynevor and Kayoko Yamashita received $3000 grants through the fund last year.

“I’d gone from working full-time on Thursday Island to being a full-time student as a single parent in Cairns so getting one of these grants meant a lot,’’ Kayoko said.

“I could buy the equipment I needed for my practicals. It felt like it took financial pressures off my shoulders.”

Kayoko is in her second year of Environmental Management and Science at James Cook University.

Another of the university’s students, Ty’a, is in

her third year of a Bachelor of Science, majoring in Zoology and Ecology.

She has this advice for others: “My dad’s motto was ‘Never give up. Just go for it’. If you are experiencing financial stress and difficulties and you need an extra bit of money to support yourself in your studies, this is a great bursary fund and opportunity for you.

“I’ve also appreciated how Terrain keeps in touch with me for potential future opportunities, like internships and workshops in the region.”

Terrain NRM’s Natural Capital Fund Chair Pete Faulkner said the bursary program, now in third year, was all about encouraging more Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders to become future leaders in natural resource management.

Applications are open until 5pm Friday 30 June. To apply, students will need to be of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander descent, over the age of 16, and enrolled or are about to be enrolled in a course at a recognised educational institution. For information, phone Terrain NRM on 4043 8000.

“Never give up. Just go for it”: Ty’a Dynevor who has an indigenous studies grant from Terrain NRM’s Natural Capital Fund to help with her course at James Cook University.

Katter unimpressed with Budget

KENNEDY MP Bob Katter has labelled the 2023-24 Federal Budget as “unimaginative,” one that robs “Peter to pay Paul” and one that creates no money-making projects.

“It just pulls some money from here and puts it over there,” Mr Katter said.

He said one of the budget’s headline statements was cost-ofliving relief, but the measures taken by the government were just band aid fixes.

“So, they’re giving out $500 in electricity relief, totalling $3bn, but doing nothing to address the issue long-term.

“That $3bn would go a very long way towards upgrading and converting our sugar mills to produce both enough ethanol for our domestic needs while also supplying significant gigawatts of electricity.

“All the cost-of-living relief measures were just handouts – there were no money-making projects that are going to inject new revenue into the economy and provide real taxation relief and economic support to the most vulnerable.

“Where are the factories that create jobs and wages, where are projects like Hells Gates Dam that would provide irrigation for a largescale industrial undertaking which would include hydro electricity, grazing land accompanying a meatworks industry, and water for sugarcane for ethanol production?

“The government is pushing electric vehicles, yet we’re importing them and sending the wealth overseas – where’s our manufacturing of EVs that would create jobs and economic prosperity?

“Australia has a real opportunity to become a renewable energy superpower, but this won’t be

achieved with an off-shore wind farm and hydrogen trial.”

Mr Katter said any cost-of-living relief would quickly be mitigated with the government’s plans to increase the road user tax by about 20 per cent imposed upon the nation’s trucking industry.

“That’s an extra 20 per cent cost rise to all your basic goods, all your groceries, all the inputs for small businesses which are already struggling to stay afloat,” he said.

Mr Katter said he welcomed the additional support in increased Medicare and the increases to the single parent payments which will allow sole parents to earn the payment until their youngest child turns 14.

On housing, Mr Katter said the government continued down the path of increasing demand with handout initiatives, rather than supply.

“The additional rent assistance, just like the home buyer schemes will put more money in pockets and increase the demand, increasing the rent,” he said.

On agriculture, he said that despite “farmers were the backbone of this country”, the budget had provided limited support.

“$1bn to control of pest and disease will do little to compensate rising electricity, transport, fertiliser, wage and packaging costs,” Mr Katter said.

“Overall, it’s a budget really just full of hand-outs and does little to establish industry, and to establish revenue-generating projects which, if invested in correctly by the government, would slow inflation and increase wages – two hurdles currently crippling this nation.”

PALM scheme

n $168.1m over four years to administer scheme – facilitating the delivery of Pacific workers to our agriculture sector

n $27.3m over four years to oversight worker rights

Critical Minerals

n $57.1m Critical Minerals International Partnership Program

n $23.4m for a Critical Minerals Office

Training Primary Care Professionals

n $4.2m over two years to support JCU to train healthcare practitioners

Regional development

n $30M increase to $180M over five years expanding Cairns Marine Precinct (matched by Queensland Government) to deliver common facility including ship-lift and work areas

n $50M over four years support new CQU campus in Cairns CBD

n $192.5M over four years to support projects in Townsville including Port of Townsville channel upgrade

Disaster resilience

n $40M strata title disaster mitigation works in North Queensland

Funding boost for water, sewerage infrastrucure

FAR Northern regional councils have received nearly $4 million from the State Government to pay for improvements to critical water and sewerage services as well as other public infrastructure.

Round 6 of the Building Our Regions funding have been granted to Mareeba Shire Council ($2.28 million), Tablelands Regional Council ($402,000) Douglas Shire Council ($938,947) and Cook Shire Council ($2.25m).

Mareeba Mayor Angela Toppin said the latest round of funding would assist council with upgrading the Mareeba Water Treatment plant filtration system, with $2 million awarded for the project which has an overall cost of $7.6 million.

The project involves the construction of a new filtration system consisting of six dual media filters and associated equipment. Additional funding of $287,990 was granted for other improvements to the water treatment facility.

Tablelands Regional Council has received funding for its water demand strategy and to contribute to the improvements being undertaken for the Ravenshoe area’s water supply.

Cr Annette Haydon said $300,000 in funding had been provided to assist in the design of a water treatment facility near the new Ravenshoe reservoir (pictured) as part of the overall water quality improvement project which would cost in the vicinity of $16 million.

“Now that the reservoir and other infrastructure is complete, we can start working on the next phases of the project,” she said.

“We approved the awarding of a contract at the March ordinary Council meeting for the design and construction of a water treatment facility near the new reservoir, and construction of a new water main from Ravenshoe to Millstream.

“This project costs more than $16M and, while it’s fantastic to see this work continuing, we are disappointed that the cost of the project is substantially higher than initially indicated.

“Work on the project will start in May and will continue for around 18 months.

‘When the project is completed, the residents of Ravenshoe and Millstream will have a year-round clean, reliable and high-quality water supply and

boil water notices will be a thing of the past.”

Cr Haydon said plans to connect the 74 properties in Bellview Estate and Cassowary Heights to the scheme had to be delayed because of the significant costs of providing the pipeline.

“We will continue to work towards a solution for these areas and will update the community as plans progress,” she added.

Meanwhile, the council will press ahead with a water demand management strategy (DMS) which attracted $102,000 from the Building Our Regions round six grants.

Infrastructure and Environment general manager Mark Vis said the developing the DMS was one of the recommendations from council’s Water Strategy and was aimed at lengthening the life of, and delaying the need to upgrade, infrastructure as well as reducing the amount of water being drawn from the environment.

“The DMS will be a more detailed business case that forecasts the projected costs, and financial and positive benefits of implementing demand management strategies,” he said.

The objectives of the DMS are to develop, assess and plan a suite of demand management initiatives such as water efficient fixtures, permanent conservation measures, system leakage reduction and an education campaign as well as developing a detailed business case for the introduction of smart metering.

Reef Initiatives

n $13M stronger Paddock to Reef monitoring, modelling and reporting

Infrastructure

n $120B over 10 years for nationally significant projects

n $121.7M in communication upgrades over five years for Queensland Black Spots

n $142.5M over five years for bridges renewal

n $3.2B over 12 years to expand investment in nationally significant water infrastructure

Remote Airstrip program

n Additional $12M over three years for further round of Remote Airstrip Upgrade Program

Developing Northern Australia

n $1.7M to refresh White Paper supported by assessment of three Growth Corridors including Mount Isa to Townsville

n $8.1M to 25-26 for Queensland for roads for cattle supply chains

n $173.7M over five years for infrastructure including links to towns, ports and airport

n $897.4 over five years for Queensland key freight routes

First Nations Water Infrastructure

n $150M for First Nations water infrastructure projects in remote locations

Improve Remote Food Security

n $11.8M over two years to develop National Strategy for Food Security in Remote First Nations

Other Items

n Defer funding for Hughenden Irrigation Scheme

n Increase Heavy Vehicle Road User Charge by six per cent per year over three years reducing the fuel tax credit given to users by $1.1B.

Our Council Our Community

We acknowledge the Native Title parties across the Tablelands Regional Council area and other family groups who are the traditional custodians of this land. We recognise your continuing connection to Country and pay respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders past, present and emerging including:

•Bar Barrum of the area around the Walsh River and to the west of the Wild River

•Dulabed and Malanbarra Yidinji of the Gillies Range area

•Girramay of the Kirrama area

•Gugu Badhun of the Wairuna/ Lamonds Lagoon area

•Jirrbal of the Koombooloomba, Ravenshoe and Herberton areas

•Mamu of the Millaa Millaa area

•Ngadjon-Jii of the Malanda and Topaz areas

•Tableland Yidinji of the Kairi, Tolga, Tinaroo and Lake Barrine areas

•Warrungu of the Gunnawarra/ Goshen area.

Our Local Culture

Visit the Nganyaji Interpretive Centre in Ravenshoe and immerse yourself in the rich culture of the Jirrbal Aboriginal People.

The Malanda Falls Visitor Centre displays feature information on the cultural heritage of the Ngadjon Aboriginal People.

If you venture into the nearby rainforest you can learn more about the culture, history and lifestyle that is sacred to this landscape and it’s Aboriginal people.

Reconciliation Action Advisory Committee

Our Reconciliation Action Advisory Committee, made up of representatives from the Southern Tableland Traditional Owners Alliance (STOA) and TRC staff, meets regularly to advise on the development and implementation of our Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP). They also engage with Reconciliation Australia and help to improve communication and relationships with First Nations Peoples, organisations and community groups. The committee is pivotal in helping us develop a culturally aware and supportive workplace.

Innovate RAP

We started our formal journey of reconciliation in December 2016. Our Reflect RAP was endorsed in May 2018, and implemented over the following 12 months. We developed an Innovate RAP in June 2020, which provides us with a direction to continue to advance reconciliation in the region. One of the highlights of its implementation is working with First Nations community groups and artists to deliver events like the First Nations Careers Event and First Nations Peoples art exhibitions.

We’re keen to work with businesses and organisations on their own RAP journey so get in touch if you’d like to work with us. Find out more at trc.qld.gov.au/reconciliation

Welcome To Country Signs

We ‘re working with Prescribed Body Corporates to develop Welcome to Country signs for the groups across our region. The signs will start appearing next year, as we finalise designs, locations and artwork with the different organisations. This project is proudly funded under the Queensland Government’s Works for Queensland Program in association with TRC.

National Reconciliation Week

The theme for this year’s National Reconciliation Week (Saturday 27 May –Friday 3 June) is Be a Voice for Generations, which encourages us to be a voice for reconciliation in our everyday lives. To celebrate this national occasion we have worked with community organisations to plan a number of events and information sessions across the region. There will be a Family Fun Day at Mount Garnet, art workshops, Waniju Bulumba art exhibition by Dan Joseph, Jitta Art weaving workshop, Q and A networking lunch and so much more. See dates, details and funding acknowledgements at trc.qld.gov.au/national-reconciliation-week If you’re having an event, make sure you add it to the TRC event calendar.

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

©JohndeRooy (TablelandPhotography )

Program making a real difference with youth

BY ELLIE FINK

SOLVING underlying issues, such as neglect, abuse, and mental health problems in youth at risk of entering or already in the Youth Justice System, is the step needed to prevent the ongoing youth crime epidemic, according to Mission Australia.

The non-profit charity group has been operating its Strong, Together, and Resilient (STAR) program in Mareeba, Atherton, and Herberton for the past five years, achieving a “strong success rate” with youths aged between 8-17 at risk of entering the Youth Justice System.

Chance to adopt a furry friend in need

IT’S raining dogs and cats at the Mareeba Animal Refuge and to help increase adoptions, the facility is hosting an Adoption Day on 28 May.

All the of the refuge’s residents will be available to adopt on the day as well as a variety of stalls available to browse. Organiser Felicity Pollard is excited to welcome everyone along to enjoy a day with the region’s most adorable little friends.

“I will have volunteers out with the dogs so people can get to know them and the cattery will be open for people to hang out in,” she said. “People are also welcome to bring their own dogs to come and meet our dogs – maybe find them a friend.”

Felicity is still on the hunt for volunteers who would like to assist on the day. To volunteer, contact the refuge on 4092 3060.

Through intensive case management, Mission Australia has addressed underlying and intersecting issues, including intergenerational trauma, family disconnection, out-of-home care, mental health issues, alcohol and other substance misuse, and family violence.

STAR has so far helped several young people develop pro-social skills through case work services and build essential individual, family, and cultural connections that have helped them return to the education system or vocational employment.

Program Manager Rachel Benton said the aim was to target the core reasons why youths were offending, with many of them coming from abusive homes or suffering from severe

mental health issues.

“Our goal is to prevent offending and reoffending by building these young people up and addressing factors that are causing them to offend,” she said.

“We have good news stories (from the program), and they look different for everyone as they all have different milestones. For some, it may be helping them re-enter the education system, for some, school isn’t for them, so it might be finding a vocational pathway.

“For a lot of those kids, going to school is the last thing on their minds because they may have a lot going on in their home lives, and we, as a community, need to be mindful of that.”

Ms Benton has seen a significant reduction in reoffending since beginning the program, and with new funding from Youth Justice Queensland under their belt, they hope to assist more.

“Young people need support and positive reinforcement to have positive outcomes and reach their full potential,” she said.

“Detention is not only a negative experience for young people - exposure to youth detention also substantially increases the likelihood of involvement in crime as an adult.

“By investing early, we can support young people's aspirations while at the same time diverting them away from the juvenile justice system.”

Chillagoe Rodeo poised to be the biggest in history

ORGANISERS have elevated the popular Chillagoe Rodeo to the next level, with the 2023 event set to be one of the biggest in history with a record number of competitive events and a mouth-watering amount of money up for grabs.

The rodeo will take place this Friday and Saturday and attract competitors and their families from across the region including many station managers and owners as they get together to socialise.

There will over 40 events at this year’s rodeo,

from open bull rides to saddle bronc, steer wrestling, barrel racing and more, with close to $25,000 in prize money up for grabs thanks to sponsors.

Kids will also be able to enjoy a best dressed and colouring in competition at this year’s rodeo.

After many years, the Chillagoe Rodeo has become affiliated with the region’s leading bull riding authority – the ABCRA North Queensland Zone –and riders competing in the bull rides will be able to earn points towards the national title.

Chillagoe Rodeo Association secretary Kate Knowles said the previous committee’s efforts was a major reason why this year’s rodeo would be huge.

“The previous committee did an amazing job of getting the rodeo back on its feet so we actually have money to work with now and we can host these bigger events,” she said.

“We couldn’t really get out of the last committee exactly how many they had through the gate

but I know they ran out of alcohol, so that is a good indication. It will be good to have the rodeo back to how it used to be, what we all remember it being.

“The Chillagoe Rodeo has always been the town’s social highlight of the year.”

There will be a live band playing both Friday and Saturday night, the bar opens at 5pm until midnight on Friday and 10am to 12pm on Saturday. Tickets for this year’s rodeo are available at the gate with free camping available.

DON’T MISS THE

Alpha Lykos K9 Training and Behaviour trainer Taylor Skinner and animal refuge staff members Alyssa Marstersen and Felicity Pollard with local residents up for adoption at the Mareeba refuge.

Insight into what it takes to be

To many, when envisioning a custodial correctional officer at Lotus Glen Correctional Centre, they picture a tall, buff, security guard that guards prisoners within their jail cells. This myth is far from true, as Express cadet journalist ELLIE FINK found out when she spent time “behind bars” of the maximum-security prison with fresh and seasoned correctional officers, learning who they are, what they do and why they do it.

IT takes a special person to work behind the razor wire fence of Lotus Glen Correctional Centre as a custodial correction officer (CCO) as so many aspects of personality and strength come into play.

CCOs act as “role models” to prisoners and help them grow, rehabilitate and learn throughout their time in prison whilst also ensuring their safety as well as the safety of staff and visitors.

Every CCO coming into Lotus Glen is put through a 10-week course where they learn the ins and out of the prison whilst completing a Certificate III in Custodial Corrections.

Once trainees have obtained their certificate, they are able to work in correctional facilities across Australia and can include adult or youth centres.

For five days a week, the trainees spend their time in the training block, T Block, located in the centre of the prison where they undergo theoretical and practical work.

Currently, there are nine CCOs in training from a diverse range of backgrounds, all with unique personalities and goals in mind.

Although the staff in the prison believe there is no such thing as a “perfect” CCO, there are several aspects to becoming a successful officer.

Two of the nine trainees, Alec and Darren, have already spent a week in the prison and have fallen in love with the job.

For Alec, becoming a CCO means giving back to the centre that has given her loved ones great employment opportunities whilst

making a difference to those who reside in the facility.

“I have many friends who work here and they all couldn’t stop talking about how much they loved it here and how good the work/life balance is,” she said.

For Darren, his history in the referral service at Lotus Glen and in the navy motivated him for a change in lifestyle. He saw the potential and opportunities available and decided it was time to take the leap of faith.

Throughout their training, Alec and Darren have touched on the important theoretical side of their roles, including law and legislation, and will participate in work experience towards the end of their certificate training.

Both Alec and Darren have begun employment Lotus Glen with differing goals and ideas of what makes a good CCO.

To Darren, his ability to be kind, respectful and open to learning new things is what makes him a great advocate for the role.

“I think being open to learning about qualities and values and respecting others and working ethically without bias,” he said.

“I think our main role is to help prisoners get through their time here and be that middle person to see that their requests are going through and they are receiving the services they’re entitled to.”

Bias is an important aspect that CCOs must consider when they begin training at any correctional facility in Queensland.

Staff members do not know why each prisoner is in the facility or what crimes they

CCO trainees learning the laws and legislation around working in Lotus Glen Correctional Centre.

a correctional officer

have committed, ruling out the chance for any biased behaviours towards inmates while promoting a fair and safe environment.

The ability to not be biased also comes with a sense of empathy towards each individual, a trait that Alec has vowed to utilise in her job every day.

“I think having a sense of empathy is good because the guys in here have gone through things we cannot imagine,” she said.

“I think it is really important to consider when you’re thinking about why someone might do some of the things they do.”

Once Alec and Darren have completed their training, they will be able to go into the prison as qualified CCOs like fresh graduate, Dylan.

Dylan has been qualified for four weeks after making a huge career change from mechanic to CCO, his motivation to help people and make a difference led him to Lotus Glen.

The leap from a qualified mechanic of 10 years to a graduate CCO on the grounds of a maximumsecurity prison was huge but Dylan has enjoyed the challenge the new role has provided.

Although he may be a fresh CCO, he is not short of stories to tell and has already been exposed to the good, the bad and the ugly when it comes to working behind bars.

A recent incident proved to him just how important his training was and how crucial his role as a CCO is when it comes to protecting those within Lotus Glen.

“In my second week in my unit, I did have an incident happen and obviously, when prisoners are acting up, the adrenaline pump you get is unreal,” he said.

“But falling back on my 10 weeks in training, I was able to call the relevant code and de-escalate the situation whilst waiting on the other staff.

“Looking back, there are things I would change but at the end of the day, I did what was needed at the time to get the situation sorted and keep the other prisoners safe.

“Throughout my time in the course, I didn’t see much of that but once you graduate, anything can happen.”

Throughout his employment, Dylan aspires to

take his career further with the big goal becoming a SERT officer.

In order to get CCOs up to scratch before making their way onto the floor, seasoned officer of 23 years, Cam, has taken on the role as trainer.

Starting out as a CCO himself, Cam is no stranger to the 10-week course which aspiring officers undertake and is keen to watch this group learn and grow.

Being in their shoes only two decades ago, he hopes he can impart some of his wisdom upon them.

“I still remember my first day very clearly and remember being nervous,” he said.

“Over time, a personal achievement for me is going from a quiet and introverted person to an assertive and charismatic person and that’s because in this job, you have to have great communication skills.

“(During the 10-week course) they are given a foundation, lots of knowledge in communication skills and teamwork but the main learning comes in the nine months after when they are on

Mentors program

TO help new CCO recruits throughout their first year in the job, Queensland Correctional Services has launched a mentoring program in Lotus Glen that if successful, could be rolled out across the state.

The maximum-security prison is the first one in Queensland to have this program, which allows fresh graduates to team up with seasoned officers who they can go to for advice.

the ground.”

Through training in the centre, CCO trainees get the opportunity to experience more than CCOs at the Brisbane Queensland Correctional Services (QCS) Academy would.

Although the training course at Lotus Glen takes two weeks more than the one at the academy, the experience within the prison itself gives trainees a further understanding of how QCS operates.

Throughout Cam’s time as a CCO, he has been able to debunk the myths that are fuelled by the incoming trainees and the general public.

“The main message I have (for the trainees) is to dispel all the myths about corrections – it’s not ‘Prison Break’,” he said.

“It’s an awesome job but it’s not a normal job, you have to make sure you have pride when you put your uniform on and that you are a CCO.

“You’ve got a huge amount of responsibility and we are here for a reason and that is to look after the prisoners, provide services, safety and security.”

Freshly graduated CCO Dylan said within three weeks of being on the floor, he has greatly benefitted from having someone who he can go to.

“Everyone I have met on the floor so far has been incredibly helpful but being able to have just that one individual who you can go to is good,” he said.

“I think they are picked based on our personality types and it’s great to just have someone who I can go to and ask specific questions.”

Graduates and their mentors have weekly schedules meetings which allow them to reflect on their role and their duties and improve and grow on what they already know.

From those meetings, mentors will also report back to the Brisbane QCS academy on how the mentoring program is benefiting CCOs like Dylan.

If the roll-out in Lotus Glen is deemed successful, the program will be rolled out across Queensland.

“I think having a sense of empathy is good because the guys in here have gone through things we cannot imagine ”

Dylan oversees the new trainees as a fresh graduate.

Pushing through was CA Architects, who won the Social Category.

Team Wheely Pushy Women pushing through to Dimbulah.

Last year's champions Rusty Wheels were back to defend their title.

Robyn Campman from Team IndieStructables

The boys from Costa's Berries had their eyes on the prize.

Team Wheelin for Willy entertains the crowd in the parade.

The boys from Nudgee College doing a quick swap in Mutchilba.

Jared Latif from Tune Squad started off fast.

The Rejected Angels turned Wheelbarrow Way bright pink.

The Old Faithful Pipes and Drums team played every day of the event whilst also running.

Dad's Army is a fan favourite every race.

Race chair Locky Bensted in the street parade.

The To Chillagoe for Cole team won best dressed in the street parade.

This year's Face of the Race Mick Borzi led the downtown parade in style.

Drive to our region's road conditions

COLD weather across the country signifies the start of the tourist season here in Far North Queensland.

With that, we see an increase in caravanners and motorhomes taking advantage of our fabulous weather, therefore, it is a timely reminder to motorists to be patient on our roads and drive to road conditions.

Not all roads in the far north are two lanes, sealed with bitumen, and not all of the dirt roads in the Cape and Gulf have been graded yet. Driving on unsealed roads can be more difficult than driving on bitumen, especially when towing a caravan or a camper.

Senior Constable Aleda Day of Crime Prevention – Tablelands said a common mistake for drivers was being unaware they needed to comply with three different weight categories.

“Motorists need to be aware of their vehicle’s gross vehicle mass (GVM), their van/trailer aggregated mass (ATM) and their combined Gross Combination Mass (GCM),” Senior Constable Day said.

“There can be serious consequences for failing to comply with all three weights, potentially resulting in traffic crashes causing serious injury to yourself, passengers, and other motorists.

“If your vehicle and towed camper or caravan are damaged, this could leave you stranded without a vehicle.”

Apart from normal driving responsibilities, towing requires a greater degree of knowledge and skill than normal driving.

Senior Constable Day said the additional weight of a caravan or trailer could have a signif-

icant impact on the way a vehicle handles on the road.

“Towing is very different to everyday driving, and it requires additional driving skills and safety precautions,” Senior Constable Day said.

“Cornering and the braking performance of vehicles are affected when towing. As a driver, you have a legal responsibility to ensure the towing vehicle, trailer and its load meet all legal and safety requirements.”

Police commonly see crashes occur when a caravan overtakes, merges or changes lane and clips the front of a car travelling behind it.

It is suggested that before heading out on the road and towing a caravan, drivers should consider undertaking a towing course which are offered by various agencies.

Given the number of caravan crashes recently, police and state roads authorities will be clamping down on overweight trailers and ignorance will not be an excuse.

All drivers, including those towing caravans or campers, need to understand the law and take responsibility for their actions. If you are unsure of how much your caravan and car weigh, drop into a weighing specialist and have it weighed correctly or drop into one of the free caravan weights days being held around the far north in the coming months.

Remember the following when travelling on roads in Far North Queensland:

n Dust can limit your visibility. If necessary, pull over, stop and wait for the dust to settle.

Don’t forget to turn your lights on so other vehicles can see you

n When driving on country or remote roads, remember to keep an eye out for livestock and wildlife on the side of the road, especially at night.

n We have road trains that can be up to 53.5 metres long (four trailers) and you will need to allow enough time to overtake safely, remembering to maintain your speed after doing so.

n Also, if you observe a road train coming towards you, you should slow down and/or stop after moving as far left as safe to do so, so the road train is able to stay on the hard surface of the road, as small shifts in weight can cause them to roll over.

n Don’t forget heavy vehicles can take up to 600 metres to stop and require more room when turning, so don’t weave or cut in front of them.

If you have a UHF installed, please use channel 40 so you can communicate with other road users, and they can communicate with you without having to change channels.

Please remember to show as much driving etiquette as you can to other road users while enjoying your holidays.

Grabyourtruelocalnewspaper atthefollowinglocations:

MAREEBA:

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

ATHERTON:

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

SOUTHERN TABLELANDS:

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

KURANDA:

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

DIMBULAH:

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

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

CHILLAGOE:

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

COOKTOWN:

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

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

KARUMBA:

Post Offi ce Karumba, Karumba Pharmacy and Carpentaria Fuels.

GEORGETOWN:

Ampol Roadhouse, Midway Caravan Park and Georgetown Hospital.

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

MT SURPRISE: Post Offi ce and Mt Surprise Service Station.

CROYDON: Gulf Gate Roadhouse and Croydon General Store.

EINASLEIGH: Post Offi ce and Einasleigh Council.

FORSAYTH: Store and Post Offi ce and Goldfield Tavern.

MOSSMAN: Port Douglas IGA and Mossman News.

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

INNISFAIL: Larsen’s Newsagency and The Book Centre.

NQ showgirl and rural ambassador finals

REPRESENTATIVES of the North Queensland agricultural community will proudly head to Tully on 27 May for the NQ Sub Chamber Showgirl and Rural Ambassador finals.

The annual competition allows entrants to participate in a program designed to help them grow, network, develop their skills, hone their ambitions, and gain the confidence to assume leadership positions in their communities and industries.

This year’s Showgirl entrants are Sascha Micola, representing Atherton Show; Jessie Gofton, representing Ingham Show; Larissa Ligasacchi, representing Tully Show; and Shynade Smith, representing Cairns Show.

The Rural Ambassadors entrants are Tatum Taffs, representing Cairns Show; Louise Garard, representing Atherton Show; Rikki Payne, representing Malanda Show; and Brandon Black, representing Tully Show.

During the finals, entrants will

give a two-minute speech and answer impromptu questions, being judged on their awareness of local and state agricultural industries, community involvement, personal and career ambitions, and on-stage presentation.

NQ Sub Chamber of Agricultural Societies secretary Catherine English said these types of competitions benefit the young generation of the agricultural community and wishes them all the best.

“We would like to wish the 2023 North Queensland Showgirl and Rural Ambassador entrants the best of luck throughout this competition,” she said.

“You are all incredible ambassadors and have done yourselves, your show committee, and your communities proud. The winners of each competition will then represent our region at the Brisbane Exhibition (EKKA) in August this year. State finalists will get to experience all aspects of the show and attend personal development sessions from in-

dustry professionals.”

Last year’s NQ Showgirl winner, Caitlin Murray, is a passionate advocate for the competition and the impact it has had on the region's upcoming leaders.

“The importance of this program is to continue to maintain the involvement of young people in our communities to promote and create public awareness of local agricultural shows and the importance of the movement,” she said.

“To be the voice and future inspiration to help connect rural and remote communities in training people who don’t come from an agricultural background and teaching them the way of the land and the passion and force behind it.

“These programs are vital for the survival of agriculture in itself, the continuation of teaching the youth and sharing awareness. We are the future of this great nation, and it all starts with programs like these that can help us take the next step.”

Brandon Black representing Tully Show.

Jessie Gofton representing Ingham Show.

Louise Garard representing Atherton Show. Rikki Payne representing Malanda Show.

Sascha Micola representing Atherton Show.

Tatum Taffs representing Cairns Show.

Shynade Smith representing Cairns Show.

HOME sweet

Diane helps to spread healthy recipe message

A MEMBER of the Herberton branch of Queensland Country Women’s Association (QCWA) is sharing healthy recipes with the community as part of her role as a Country Kitchens facilitator.

Joining the QCWA in 2017, Diane Donaldson, who is also the Atherton Tablelands Division Convenor, said she was inspired to become a Country Kitchens facilitator over a year ago.

“At a division meeting one weekend at the Forsayth Branch, Country Kitchens Health Promotion team leader Katy Li demonstrated a couple of Country Kitchens recipes, and I decided to sign up,” she said.

“I love cooking, and I cook everything from scratch, having done so for many years.”

The QCWA’s Country Kitchens program is a health promotion program supporting communities across Queensland to adopt healthier lifestyle behaviours.

It is a partnership between the QCWA and Health and Wellbeing Queensland and the flagship program of the association.

The Country Kitchens program supports QCWA volunteer branch and supporter members, who already have a wealth of cooking knowledge and skills, with training and support to help improve the health and wellbeing of Queenslanders, particularly those living in rural, regional and remote locations.

“I got involved with the Country Kitchens program to promote and raise awareness of the importance

of consuming a healthy, balanced diet, and to show how easy it can be to make great tasting healthy meals at home,” Diane said.

The Country Kitchens team of dietitians and nutritionists provide a training pathway and assistance to QCWA members – supporter members and branch members - who volunteer to become facilitators of the program.

Country Kitchens facilitators deliver health promotion activities in their local communities and partner with organisations such as schools, local councils, and a wide range of community groups.

A central part of the program is the creation of healthy recipes which is how the Country Kitchens program is improving food and nutrition literacy, and importantly, influencing behaviour change at a grass roots level.

“I have been involved in a range of Country Kitchens community activities and have recently completed my Level 5 facilitator training,” Diane said.

“I have assisted with a showcase at the Atherton Show for the past two years, and also helped deliver hands-on nutrition workshops for Year 10 students at Malanda High School in conjunction with other facilitators.”

If you or someone you know is keen to work with the QCWA Country Kitchens program, the organisation is always looking to increase its volunteer workforce. To learn more, contact the team on 0417 539 663, or visit www.qcwacountrykitchens.com.au

Mouth watering recipes

MEDITERRANEAN CHICKEN BOWL

Serves: 4

Prep time: 15 minutes

Cook time: 25 minutes

Ingredients

1 zucchini, diced, 1cm

1 red capsicum, diced, 1cm

1 eggplant, diced, 1cm

3 tablespoons olive oil

300g chicken breast, diced,

1cm

2 cloves garlic, crushed

2 teaspoons ground cumin

2 teaspoons dried oregano

1 medium onion, diced

1 cup pearl couscous

½ cup feta, reduced fat

Tzatziki

½ cucumber, finely chopped

1 cup natural yoghurt, reduced fat

1 tablespoon lemon juice

Method

Preheat oven to 180°C. Add zucchini, capsicum and eggplant to large roasting pan and drizzle with a tablespoon of olive oil. Roast in oven for 20 minutes. Heat another tablespoon of oil over medium heat in a large frypan. Add chicken slices, half the garlic, cumin and oregano, stirring until chicken is cooked through. Remove from pan. Add remaining oil over medium heat in pan. Add onions and sauté for 2 minutes. Add

in couscous and ½ cup of water. Reduce heat and cook for 5 minutes until water is absorbed. Use fork to fluff up couscous. Squeeze juice from cucumber with hands. Add yoghurt, splash of oil,

CHICKEN, MUSHROOM AND VEG PIES

THIS dish can be served as a large pie to share with family and friends or as individual pies. The mixture can also be served as a casserole if you don’t have pastry or wish to omit it. It can also be cooked as a batch and frozen into individual portions for up to two months. This tasty, healthy pie is great served with steamed vegetables on the side and your choice of grain.

Serves: 6

Prep time: 20 minutes

Cook time: 35-45 minutes

INGREDIENTS

1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

2 cloves garlic, chopped

1 brown onion, diced

6 sprigs dried thyme, leaves picked off stems

¼ butternut or Kent pumpkin, seeds and skin removed, cut into small cubes

500g chicken thighs, chopped into chunks

½ cup wholemeal flour

1 vegetable stock cube and ½ cup water OR

½ cup liquid vegetable stock

8 button or brown mushrooms, diced

2 portobello mushrooms, diced

2 sheets puff pastry

1 egg, lightly whisked

METHOD

Preheat oven to 180°C. Heat oil in a heavy

lemon juice and remaining garlic in small bowl and mix through cucumber. Layer couscous, vegetables and chicken in bowl. Drizzle tzatziki dressing and garnish with feta.

based casserole dish over medium heat. Add garlic and onion once pan is hot and cook until translucent (about 5 minutes).

Add thyme and pumpkin to the pot, stir, then cover and cook until pumpkin starts to disintegrate (around 5 minutes). Coat the chopped chicken in wholemeal flour then add to the pot, frying until browned.

Add stock, cover and lower heat. Cook for 5 minutes or until chicken is cooked through. Add mushrooms to pot, stir, then cover with lid and turn off heat. Let the mushrooms cook in the residual heat for 2 minutes.

Transfer mixture to either a medium ovenproof baking dish OR ladle into individual pie ramekins. Cut pastry to fit pie dish or ramekins then brush with egg. Cook in oven for 20-30 minutes or until the crust is golden brown. Cooking time may depend on the size of baking dish used. Serve with a side of steamed green vegetables and your choice of carbohydrate (e.g. crusty wholemeal bread, brown rice, pasta etc).

Member of the Herberton branch of the Atherton Tablelands QCWA, Diane Donaldson, is intent on raising awareness of the importance of a healthy, balanced diet.

Blue tie ball success

Celebrating mums

Founder of Moyamoya Australia Nicola Baker with Yolonde Entsch.

Five moyamoya survivors in one room – the most ever in known history. Nicola gives her presentation at the ball. A

done by the Macquarie University Neurosciences.

Valentina Paronella and Molloy Linnett.

Sue McCann and Rene Lander.

Margia Visser and Ann Haslam.

Largest Field Days in Northern Australia – bigger and better than ever before

NORTHERN Australia’s largest display of agricultural excellence is expected to break records in 2023.

Businesses from across Queensland and interstate have jumped at the chance to take part in the biennial Rotary FNQ Field Days, which will be held at the Mareeba Rodeo Grounds on 24-26 May.

The three-day event has grown exponentially since its conception in the mid-1980s, with more than 15,000 people attending in 2021 and a record number of exhibitors featured.

This year’s event promises to set the bar even higher, with a showcase of brand-new attractions and exhibits as well as the return of crowd-favourites such as the Brown and Hurley Tractor Pull and Garden Tractor Display, daily machinery demonstrations, events in the arena, cattle display, Emergency Services demonstrations, and much more.

Local businesses Tyrepower Mareeba, Mete Motor Group and NQ Agricultural Services have also come on board as the Strategic Partners of the 2023 Rotary FNQ Field Days.

Event chair and Mareeba Shire Councillor Kevin Davies said the

three-day event was hosted by the Rotary Clubs of Atherton and Mareeba, with all monies raised donated to charities and community organisations.

He said the key theme for this year’s event was Celebration of Agriculture.

“This year the Field Days has grown even bigger, with over 500 sites and 450 exhibitors, ready to showcase and demonstrate new innovations and the latest products,” he said.

“It boasts the largest and most comprehensive display of agricultural equipment and associated products and services in the region.

“The Field Days also creates an opportunity to catch up with old friends, colleagues and distributors, this is not only a field day but a social gathering for many.”

The 2023 Field Days will be open from Wednesday, 24 May to Friday 26 May from 9am each day.

The following pages will provide you with an overview of what you can except to see at this year’s Field Days which kick off next Wednesday, at the Mareeba Rodeo Grounds.

MAREEBA

Wednesday,

Something for everyone

GONE are the days of it just being known as an event for the men. The Field Days have evolved over the years to now cater for everyone, from men to women and children, both young and old – no one is left behind.

This year's event will be more diverse then ever before with a host of different exhibitors coming from all over to showcase their goods and services.

Local exhibitors with clothing for men and women will be onsite, as well as homewares, giftwares and so many more.

For a quiet place to relax, the Rotary Tea House Cafe featuring old-fashioned

hospitality is also returning this year.

This year’s line up includes a range of local businesses and community organisations from across the Far North, all excited to join the event and support local.

The Rotary Bar will also be open during the day and there is plenty of shade areas, plus the alfresco dining area to sit down, relax and enjoy a bite to eat.

With so much to see and do over the three days, make sure you get your friends and family together and spend a day or three in Mareeba.

A celebration of

YOU’D be hard pressed to find a better illustration of agriculture’s connection to the Atherton Tablelands than the vintage piece of farming equipment, a 1921 Bailor Multicultivator.

The piece is entrenched in history, having been built in America, imported to Ballarat, Victoria, and shifted to Tumoulin, where it was used by the Stancombe family on their cropping farm for many years before it found itself relegated to the shed.

With Arthur Stancombe’s approval, Mareeba collector Ray Blain restored the piece, with the help of Tony Little; the pair carrying out a major engine overhaul complete with new parts.

It’s fitting then, that the multi-cultivator will take pride of place at this year’s Rotary FNQ Field Days, honouring the event’s theme, Cel-

ebration of Agriculture.

Mr Blain said vintage pieces of equipment like the multi-cultivator provided a unique appreciation and realisation of how far farm machinery has come, and how much easier it is on the operator.

“The hard has been transformed into comfort and reliability,” Mr Blain said.

The multi-cultivator will be on display at the field days, 24-26 May.

Field Days committee chairman Kevin Davies said agriculture was the economic backbone of the region, and contributed millions of dollars to the regional communities it supports.

The event will give a nod to agriculture through the grand parade, highly popular Brown and Hurley Agriculture tractor pull and other attractions.

New additions to three day event

FROM humble beginnings on the Atherton Tablelands, the Rotary FNQ Field Days continues to go from strength to strength.

This year’s three-day event promises to be the biggest and best the Rotary Clubs of Atherton and Mareeba has hosted to date.

The Mareeba Rodeo Grounds will be transformed into a small village of agricultural excellence, showcasing the very best machinery, equipment, services and products from all over the country.

Rotary FNQ Field Days site coordinator, Nina Grant said a range of new additions had been added to cater for the expediential growth.

She said due to the demand from businesses and organisations from across Queensland and interstate wanting to take part, new sites had been created this year bringing the overall total to more than 500 – an event record.

“We have many exhibitors that come back year after year to the Field Days because they do so well over the three days,” Ms Grant said.

“So many businesses report great sales and great customer interaction as well as generating new interest from being out in the public.

“Due to this success, we have businesses that have never taken part in

the Field Days and want to be involved and get their name out there. So we’ve created more exhibitor sites to allow for this growth and it’s something we’re really excited about.”

Another new addition is a dedicated pickup and drop off service to assist people that purchase larger items from exhibitors during the Field Days.

Ms Grant said volunteers would drive the large items out to the gates throughout the day to assist patrons delivering the items to their car.

“This is going to be a new dedicated service to help people deliver the larger items that they have bought back to their vehicles,” she said.

Ms Grant said a new parking and entry system would also be in place this year with three ticket entry gates for patrons to use.

“There will still be volunteers to help direct you to park, but there’s going to be three ticket gates open for the first time –west, east and the main gate,” she said.

“Once you’ve parked, you then walk through to get your ticket scanned or purchase your ticket in person if you haven’t already done so online.”

Tickets for the Rotary FNQ Field Days can be purchased online, or by cash or card at the gate.

A PASSION and committment to give back to the local community is the driving force for three businesses who have returned as Strategic Partners of the Rotary FNQ Field Days.

In 2023, Tyrepower Mareeba, Mete Motor Group and NQ Agricultural Services have thrown their support behind Northern Australia’s largest Field Days.

Each of the three businesses have been exhibitors at the Rotary FNQ Field Days for many years and have experienced a wealth of benefits as a result.

Passionate about supporting the local community, Mete Motor Group Dealer Principal David Mete said the Rotary FNQ Field Days was a fantastic opportunity to connect with a wide demographic.

“We’ve had such a great experience from every event, so of course we were coming on board again this year," he said.

“It’s such a big event and we all can’t wait to get back out there this year to talk to people and showcase our range of Mazda and Mitsubishi vehicles.

“It’s also just about being part of this amazing event that does so much for the community.”

Tyrepower Mareeba is one of the original businesses to exhibit at the Rotary FNQ Field Days and owner John Raso said he looked forward to attending the event to not only showcase his business and products, but to give back to an event that contributed so much to the Far North community.

“It’s a great event to get involved in and I always look forward to it when it comes around,” he said.

“Ever since the Field Days started, I’ve never missed a year. I have been going as an exhibitor for all those years. It’s unbelievable how much it has grown and the support we receive from people who attend is second to none.”

NQ Agricultural Services from Tolga came on board as Strategic Partners for the very first time in 2021. Managing director James Fisher said the business had received outstanding support and an influx of machinery sales.

He said NQ Agricultural Services’ presence at the event had also generated a lot of interest that carried through the years, making it “a no-brainer” to return as Strategic Partners once again.

Mr Fisher said he was looking forward to connecting with people from all over throughout the Rotary FNQ Field Days.

“We’re excited to be on board again in 2023, helping the community and helping in the Rotary FNQ Field Days is really what we want to be about,” he said.

“We’ve been to the event many times before and a highlight for me is actually dealing with the customers and the people. It’s seeing people in a different environment... it’s really nice to see someone in neutral ground and show them our products and give them our thanks when they come on board.

Local businesses are proud to partner with the Rotary FNQ Field Days. Pictured above is James Fisher of NQ Agricultural Services, John Raso from Tyrepower Mareeba, FNQ Field Days Chair Kevin Davies and David Mete from Mete Motor Group.

Rich history and community passion Message from the chair

THE conception of northern Australia’s largest field days is a tale of community passion.

In the mid-1980s, one of Atherton’s pioneering farming families, the Beattie family, offered land on their Malanda-Atherton Road potato farm for a field day.

Then in September 1989, the Rotary Clubs of Atherton, Malanda, Mareeba and Kuranda combined their shared vision to host an event that would directly benefit their communities.

From this, the Rotary FNQ Field days was born.

Held over two days on a biennial basis, the event quickly became an award-winning field days and was the largest community event on the Tablelands.

On average 8,000 people attended each day and a record number of funds were raised each year, prompting the event to move locations four times.

The Atherton and Mareeba Rotary Clubs have now combined to operate the event, and each club has its priority projects and causes.

The Field Days committee also donates to service clubs across the region.

Following the 2011 event it was clear that a new, bigger and better site was needed to help the event grow to its full potential.

In May 2013, the Mareeba Rodeo Grounds was transformed into the largest and most comprehensive display of agricultural equipment, associated products, and services in the region. It hosted 250 exhibitors and was

deemed “a sell-out”.

Then in 2019, a record number of sites were released for sale and opened up to a three-day event. But it was 2021 when even higher records were broken, with 15,000 people attending the three-day event and a record number of exhibitors featured.

The growth would not be possible without the support from exhibitors, some of which have returned each event since the beginning, and the public that comes through the gates.

The 2023 event chair and Mareeba Shire Councillor Kevin Davies said the Rotary FNQ Field Days organisers and committee were “grateful for the support and are committed to continuing this event to give exposure to rural and related industries as a major boost to the economy.

“(The Field Days conception) to what it has become now and the possibilities of what it can be in the future, I am not sure if they would have thought that it was going to grow into this amazing event that is becoming bigger each event, thank you to those that had the enthusiasm and commitment to start,” he said.

“The economic benefit it brings to not just Mareeba and Atherton, but to the region as a whole and all money raised from this event goes back into the local communities. So many charities and organisations across the region have benefited and that’s what we’re all here for.”

ON behalf of the Rotary FNQ Field Days Organising Committee, I would like to welcome everyone to the 2023 FNQ Field Days. It is a privilege to be the chair of this fantastic event.

I would also like to thank the organising committee, who are members of the Atherton and Mareeba Rotary Clubs for their outstanding work and dedication towards this event.

Also a thank you to the volunteers you see at the gates, the parking attendants, those handing out guides and serving you in the Tea House or at the Bar – without them, this event would not be possible.

This year, the Field Days has grown even bigger, with over 500 sites and 450 exhibitors ready to showcase and demonstrate new innovations and the latest products.

I would like to make special mention to the Rotarians that had the vision to start the Field Days all those years ago. From the mid-1980s to what it has become now and the possibilities of what it can be in the future, I am not sure the event’s founders have thought that it was going to grow into this amazing agricultural spectacle that it has. Thank you to those that had the enthusiasm and commitment to start.

This event occurs every two years, and delivers an enormous economic benefit to not just Mareeba and Atherton but to the whole region. All money raised from this event goes back into the local

communities. To date, close to $1 million has been distributed to many charities and organisations across the region.

The Field Days also creates an opportunity to catch up with old friends, colleagues and distributors. Its as much a field day as it is a social gathering for many.

On behalf of the organising committee, we hope you have wonderful experience in 2023.

KEVIN DAVIES 2023 Rotary FNQ Field Days Chair

Engines ready to roar as crowds set to flock to popular tractor pull

TRACTORS big and small will put their engines to the ultimate test in one of the Rotary FNQ Field Days’ most popular events.

This year’s Brown and Hurley Agriculture Tractor Pull and Garden Tractor Display will be held on Wednesday and Thursday, followed by a Friday morning demonstration.

The competition has grown to become one of the most watched attractions, starting with just handful of tractors in 2015.

Each of the machines that enter the competition must meet the guidelines of being two-wheel drive and at least 40 years old.

NQ Tractor Pulling Inc president, Mark Brown said more than 40 tractors from across Queensland had signed up to take part this year, with the furthest coming from Sarina.

“It draws a crowd,” he said.

“We’ve got (tractors) coming from Sarina, Mackay, the Burdekin, Innisfail, Mareeba, Atherton, Biboorha and Kairi.

The tractor pull involves either a ‘vintage’ or ‘classic tractor’ pulling a sled along a 120m track. Engine capacity categories for the Rotary FNQ Field Days range from 20 horsepower (HP) right up to 200HP and additional crawler classes.

Two sleds will be in action – one to pull 30HP to 100HP tractors, and a second to pull 100HP to 200HP – designed to put on an impressive show for spectators.

The competition will also feature the next generation of agricultural leaders, with a Garden Tractor Display for junior competitors as young as eight to get involved in.

Modified ride-on lawn mowers with the deck removed and garden tractors under 15HP and over 15HP, pulling a smaller sled will also line up to put their machines to the test.

Wednesday, Thursday & Friday 24, 25, 26 May

Growing strong

THE farming landscape in and around the productive Mareeba-Dimbulah region has changed immensely, matching the resilience of the region’s growers to remain sustainable and profitable.

Mainstay crops have made way for other commodities and helped position the region (taking in areas to the south and north) as a horticultural powerhouse in northern Australia.

When the region’s tobacco industry deregulated more than 20 years ago, mangoes – currently valued at more than $35 million - was the first to emerge.

Today, mangoes share the limelight with bananas, avocados, sugar, blueberries and citrus (lemons and limes) in the region’s top 10 horticultural commodities.

Together with dozens of other tree crops, broadacre crops and cattle, agriculture is worth more than $500 million to the economy.

At the same time, traditional production areas in crops like bananas and sugar have expanded geographically, from the coast to the hinterland and further west.

Cotton is the ‘new kid on the block’, and while the far north’s wet season has been troublesome for the new crop, it still remains a production option for growers.

Cane is shaping up for a solid 2023, with a spike in the world sugar price and a drop in the cost of fertilisers combining to provide some much-needed relief for a bumper season.

Cattle continue to perform strongly, although 2023 started slow compared with

two previous bumper years.

FNQ Growers president Joe Moro said diversification has driven the industry’s development as growers work to remain sustainable and seek protection from extreme weather events.

The region’s horticulture industry has been largely built on the back of the manmade Tinaroo Dam and associated Mareeba Dimbulah Water Supply Scheme (MDWSS), which channels water to hundreds of farms in Mareeba and Dimbulah and other small satellite communities.

As the lifeblood of agriculture, reliable, affordable and equitable access to water remains a priority.

Void of a firm commitment for a second dam, advocacy efforts have focused on water harvesting opportunities on the Walsh River, efficiency works in the MDWSS and reinvestigation of the North Johnstone River diversion.

Every 100 megalitre of water used in horticulture equates to $250,000 and four jobs generated at the farm gate, highlighting the value of this incredible resource.

Equally important is an efficient, reliable and safe road network.

There are small and big ticket items including a B-double recoupling site on the Kennedy Highway between Mareeba and Kuranda, deemed vital for the freight industry, while pressure continues to be applied for the inland route.

Arena to come alive

A SPECTACULAR agriculture display of past, present and future machinery will parade around the Field Days arena in 2023.

The Celebration of Agriculture Grand Parade will be held on Wednesday and Thursday of the event at 12.45pm.

The celebration on day one will officially kick off the 2023 event and feature an impressive line-up of machinery, displays, performances and more.

Following the parade will be the popular Bobcat Skills Show by Mareeba businessman, Rex Petersen.

Returing this year, Mr Petersen is again looking forward to showing people some fun tricks with skid-steer loaders, commonly known as Bobcats.

“We welcome everyone to attend and see the Agriculture Parade and Bobcat Skills Show,” Rotary FNQ Field Days chair Kevin Davies said.

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Largest display of top quality cattle

TOP quality stock from across the North and afar will be on display at northern Australia’s largest agricultural Field Days next week.

As part of the Field Days, the cattle display showcases the best the region has to offer and this year a record number of studs have jumped on board.

Over 18 different studs will feature more than eight different breeds with varieties such as Brahmans, Droughtmasters, Ultra Blacks, Murray Greys, Shorthorns and more.

Retired Droughtmaster stud farmer and cattle display co-ordinator, Trevor Taylor has worked hard to bring the cattle display to a whole new level and is once again hoping it will be a great success for the studs and visitors alike.

“The cattle display at the three-day event has always been a drawcard and an important way to showcase the industry,” said Mr Taylor.

“There have been record cattle prices and there will only be good quality stock at the field fays... some really nice females as well as big bulls.

“We encourage everyone to come and check out the cattle and I hope the event will once again be a great success

for all involved.

“The yards are located near the main arena, so please remember to go and have a look because it’s really worth while seeing.

“You will see, in one hour, as many studs and very good quality stud cattle, as it would take you a week to cover if you had to go to all of the studs spread across the region.”

Can

you guess the weight of the bull?

THIS outstanding Santa Gertrudis bull may be worth $32,000 – but how much does he weigh?

Here’s your chance to raise much-needed money for The Royal Flying Doctors (RFDS) by guessing the weight of Rosevale Reunion R130, principal sire at the Tallangalook Shorthorn and Santa Gertrudis stud on the Atherton Tablelands.

Simply visit the Nutrien Ag Solutions sites (SI and S2) at the Field Days to see Reunion R130 in the flesh, make your gold coin donation to RFDS, put in your entry and then we’ll find out who’s the master at estimating this superb bull’s weight.

The winner will receive a Traeger Pro 575 Grill, donated by Nutrien Ag Solutions.

Valued at $1,599, the Pro 575 grill pushes the limits of what’s possible in grilling technology – and is perfect for cooking a great Tablelands steak!

24–26 May 2023

Giving back where it matters

GIVING back is what Field Days is all about and now cancer patients in the region will benefit with more support as a result of a $25,000 donation from Rotary FNQ Field Days.

The donation will go towards the Far North Queensland Hospital Foundation’s Cancer Care Hub campaign.

Field Day chair Kevin Davies said the donation was a “no brainer” particularly when the committee discussed the fact Tablelands

families would access the service.

“Everyone is touched by cancer and we’re very well aware of the good work that the Foundation does so it was natural for us to support this project,” Mr Davies said.

“We’re passionate about funds from the field days supporting the local community and this gift will certainly do that. Anything that we can do to support local cancer patients staying close to home during their treatment, is important to us.”

Volunteers key to Field Day success

IN simple terms if it weren’t for the contribution of hardworking volunteers, Mareeba wouldn’t be able to stage the Rotary FNQ Field Days. The engine room of the event, the volunteers collaborate, tirelessly before, during and after to deliver a satisfying and memorable event.

A fierce passion for their community is a key motivating factor why so many individuals get involved.

The event is a joint initiative between Atherton and Mareeba Rotary Clubs and raises thousands of dollars for both clubs to distribute to charities and organisations like Cancer Queensland, QCWA, Lions Clubs and Friends of the Far North Queensland Hospital Foundation.

Rotary FNQ Field Days Chair Kevin Davies said Field Days couldn’t and wouldn’t be held without the support of the event’s hundresed of volunteers.

“This event would not work without the

support and dedication of our volunteers,” Mr Davies said.

“They are so important in helping us make the event what it is today and we are so grateful for the ones that return year after year.

“Those who volunteer, money goes back to their charity. The whole idea of the Field Days is to raise money to put back into the community, whether we do it through direct donations to different organisations, or whether we donate back to the volunteers’ who support us.”

Mr Davies said the event’s organising committee also dedicated countless hours of work behind the scenes to make the Field Days such a success.

“They’re so dedicated and passionate about putting on a successful event that has so many great benefits for local businesses, organisations and the region as a whole,” he said.

Daily displays and demos

Art therapy key to health and wellbeing for all at Field Days

A CREATIVE approach to tapping into ones physical and emotional wellbeing and mental health state will be offered for the first time at the Rotary FNQ Field Days.

holistic client-centred approach, and is a type of counselling that uses art as its primary language - a way to communicate emotions, experiences, and stories.

disorders, but has now grown to encompass the inclusion of numerous services that support vulnerable people in our region.

AN impressive line-up of informative displays, presentations and demonstrations are ready and rearing to go for the Rotary FNQ Field Days.

Far North emergency services will join forces to hold live demonstrations of a single road crash at the event where they will use equipment to perform rescues.

The final day of the Field Days will also coincide with Fatality Free Friday – a nationwide program conducted each year to raise road safety awareness. There will be a drunk google demonstration and you will be able to sign a road safety pledge.

The Rural Fire Brigade will also be presenting demonstrations over the three days and for 4WD enthusiasts, the Australian Off-road Academy will be holding numerous off-road adventure demonstrations a day. TravEarth Drove Services will showcase the Ag Drone in the arena, and a Shut the Gate on Rural Crime presentation at the Rotary Tea House.

The arena will also feature daily live demonstrations of the GOtrack autonomous tractor operation system, plus so much more.

InspirexArt business owner, Carolyn Mundt will be running Art Therapy sessions for people to get involved in across the three-day event.

The sessions will be open to anyone who attends the Rotary FNQ Field Days and will form part of this year’s Health and Wellbeing display.

Ms Mundt first became interested in art therapy several years ago and was approached by a local Rockhampton psychologist to work with some of their NDIS clients using art as therapy.

“Witnessing the improvement in client’s physical and emotional wellbeing and mental health state, convinced me to study to become a Transpersonal Art Therapist,” she said.

“Transpersonal Art Therapy is a

“It is especially helpful when people find it difficult to articulate their feelings and emotions into words.

“When we are faced with challenges, sometimes we feel lost, sad, anxious, confused, overwhelmed, and need a little help to navigate a path through these challenges. So, this is where Transpersonal Art Therapy comes into play.

“It builds on our own natural creativity and imagination for insight and healing. It is for all ages, for all abilities and for any and everyone.”

The Health and Wellbeing display at the Rotary FNQ Field Days was launched in 2017 and continues to gain momentum each year.

It began as an opportunity to raise awareness about mental health

Rotary FNQ Field Days siteco-ordinator Nina Grant said an impressive line-up of community groups and organisations had put their hand up to share their services and knowledge as part of the Health and Wellbeing display this year.

She said there would be a focus on a range of different topics and would shine a light on the importance of taking care of your mind, body and soul.

“The Art Therapy sessions are something we are really excited to have part of the display this year and we encourage everyone to get involved," Ms Grant said.

“We will also be creating a large community mural where people will be able to stop by and write a positive message.”

ENTERTAINMENT

Three films on offer

THIS weekend, the historical Majestic Theatre in Malanda offers a fun-filled opportunity for those who enjoy a great movie outing, with three films to choose from.

The comedy starring Jane Fonda, Candice Bergen, Diane Keaton and Mary Steenburgen in “Book Club: The Next Chapter”.

From the Marvel Cine-verse, the action, adventure comedy “Guardians Of The Galaxy: Volume 3”, continues for another marvellous weekend as well as the wonderful animated family adventure comedy “The Super Mario Bros Movie”, back for one last screening on Saturday.

Prepare to go Into the Woods

IT is all hands on deck at Atherton Performing Arts as actors prepare to present their latest production, Into the Woods, within the coming weeks.

Actors are hard at work learning choreography and their lines for the dynamic and uplifting musical to be staged at the Silo Road Theatre between 27 May and 11 June. There will be 10 showings of the re-

nowned Broadway musical by Sonder and Lapine with budget sessions, concession, family and group discounts available.

Local will be able to see fairy tale characters such as Jack from Jack and the Beanstalk, Cinderella and Red Riding Hood venture into the woods as their lives become entwined and new destinies emerge.

There will also be a fancy dress night for the Friday 4 June performance.

The the audience is encouraged to dress up as fairy tale or medieval characters and become immersed in the musical journey.

Tickets are available at Tableland Books in Atherton or online at athertonperformingarts.com.au

New exhibition showcases therapy paintings

A LOCAL man, who uses art as a form of therapy has opened his first exhibition showcasing his love for floristry, nature, and vibrant colours at the Mareeba Arts Society.

Michael Sandall-Vear believes that art is one of the best forms of therapy, having taken up the hobby during some of his most difficult times.

With a background in nursing and floristry, the impact of mental health was almost paralysing for Mr Sandall-Vear, but he found great solace in art.

Now, with over 100 paintings to his name, his work is being displayed across the walls of the Mareeba Art Society.

“I am incredibly excited and just can't believe how well everything has come together. The ladies (members of the art society) have been fantastic in putting all my paintings up," he said.

“When I look at the exhibition, I think, 'wow, I can't believe I've painted all of this.' From the different seascapes to flowers, I like to say that I've grown them with my paintbrush.”

Mr Sandall-Vear's artwork will be on display for the rest of May at the society’s premises located adjacent to the 100 Park and Mareeba Heritage Centre.

Tickets:TablelandBooks,Atherton, ww.athertonperformingarts.com.au oratthedoor(cashonly)

Budgetsessions,Familyand GroupDiscountsavailable

Tickets: Tableland Books, Atherton, ww athertonperformingarts com au or at the door (cash only) Budget sessions, Family and Group Discounts a ailable

Atherton Performing Arts actors rehearsing their choreography for the upcoming Into the Woods production.

Upcoming artist Michael Sandall-Vear and Mareeba Art Society Inc president Faythe Keogh amongst some of Mr Sandall-Vears work now on display.

ON LANDthe

PRIMARY school children are gearing up to enter the annual farm safety calendar drawing competition hosted by Workplace Health and Safety Queensland.

Students from prep to year six are encouraged to pick up some colouring pencils and compete for prizes by creating safety illustrations focussed on electricity, animals, machinery, quad bikes, water safety, and general health and well-being on the farm.

Last year, demand for the free farm safety calendar was overwhelming, with more than 30,000 copies printed and distributed to Queensland homes

as a year-round reminder of why it’s so important to think about safety on rural properties.

This year’s 12 competition winners will again have their illustrations published in the calendar and receive a $250 gift card for themselves and $500 for their school.

More than 1,000 school children are expected to enter the competition this year - taking the number of entries to well over 10,000 since the competition started in 2015.

Entries for the 2023 edition will close on June 23. For information go to www.worksafe. qld.gov.au and search for “farm safety calendar”.

Kids drawings to help promote farm safety Councils combat Gamba Grass

MEMBERS of the Mareeba and Tableland councils recently joined together with other local council workers across the region in a taskforce to combat the invasive weed Gamba Grass that has spread throughout in the Cook Shire.

The Gamba Grass Task Force hit the roads around the Cook Shire to spray the invasive weed that threatens local ecosystems and exacerbates wildfires.

Gamba Grass is a fast-growing, invasive plant species with the potential to transform local ecosystems and fuel fires with intensities well above that posed by other exotic grasses.

A convoy of utes driven by representatives from local councils and other agencies attacked the grass found at properties, roadsides and reserves as a continued, coordinated response to managing the species.

“This year’s work builds on the first task force collaboration last May,” Cape York NRM’s Coastal Ecosystems coordinator Dave Preece said.

“It will cover areas around the Annan/Endeavour catchment, and adjoining sections of the Jeannie and Normanby

Event to ‘grow’ connections between farmers and businesses

BY BRIGITTE DALEY

AS part of Queensland Small Business Month, the Malanda Chamber of Commerce is holding a not to be missed networking event to engage the farming community with the business community.

Malanda Chamber of Commerce member John de Rooy said the township was thriving after recent improvements such as the English Street upgrade, the pump track and adventure playground in Jack May Park and new cafes and businesses starting up.

“Our Chamber of Commerce now has 80 members and is growing,” he said.

Fisheries dairy development officer Joanna Srhoj who will speak on “Building Resilient Dairy Businesses in Far North Queensland”.

Jo is based in North Queensland where she is facilitating a dairy discussion group, working to increase pasture intake and supporting North Queensland extension efforts.

The second guest speaker is Lynette McGuffie from the Rural Financial Counselling Service Atherton.

Lynette will do a 10-minute presentation on the services and support available from the counselling service.

catchments.”

Mr Preece said it was a fantastic team effort and was a great success.

Groups involved in the task force came from the Far North Queensland Regional Organisation of Councils (FNQROC) which includes members from the Hinchinbrook, Cook, Mareeba, Douglas and the Tableland shires, in addition to crews from Biodiversity Queensland, Queensland Department of Resources, Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service, Jabalbina Rangers and Balnggarrawarra Rangers.

“We had a terrific response last year and the treatment and presence of crews really brought the issue of Gamba Grass to the public’s attention – this year was no exception,” Cook Shire Biosecurity and Local Laws manager Darryn Higgins said.

“We know what this weed can do, as we’ve seen in the Northern Territory the potential it has to spread and fuel fires which impact infrastructure and threaten lives.

“We don’t want a repeat of that here.”

“We feel a renewed relationship with our farmers as they are one of the pillars of our economy in the next stage of our progression towards a successful and resilient community.

“Our Q&A session at this event will discover how farmers and town businesses are able to build a more rewarding relationship.”

The chamber recently held a joint meeting with the Atherton and Ravenshoe Chambers of Commerce looking for ways to support each other and each other’s events.

They are advertising this event widely on the Tablelands and through the other chambers to ensure that they get a large and broad Tablelands attendance at the GROW event.

They want chamber members and members of the local farming community to share ideas on how to best support all regional business activity and improve the local economy.

There will be two guest speakers followed by a panel discussion with Q&A sessions to bounce around some ideas on what farmers need in terms of additional local businesses that the chamber could try and attract to Malanda, as well as what other things the chamber could be doing to better engage with and service the needs of local farming businesses.

Highly anticipated guest speakers include Department of Agriculture and

She has extensive experience assisting producers understand their business and identify options and strategies to improve their financial performance. Her passion is helping agricultural businesses and families achieve their financial and personal goals and providing advocacy and support for clients experiencing financial difficulty.

MC and entertainment speaker for the night is Georgina Humphries who is known as the “Thriller from Millaa Millaa”. She has just returned from performing 10 shows last month at the Melbourne International Comedy Festival.

Having grown up on a dairy farm herself, Georgina knows how demanding it can be.

She is flying up from Brisbane to MC the event and to perform a stand-up comedy set at the end of the evening.

“There's something so special about farming communities, they are filled with such hard working, genuine people - it will be great to see them benefit from an event like this - especially being the first of its kind on the Tablelands," she said.

“I am so grateful to have been asked to be part of an event that really hits close to home for me. Enhancing the relationship that farmers have with businesses in this area it’s a win-win for everyone.

“I know first-hand how hard our local farmers work, so hard that it becomes difficult for them to get away to have a break.

“Grow Malanda is the perfect chance. It's going to be such a great mix of new ideas, business resources, guest speakersand a little bit of light entertainment with my rural humour to gel it all together. I can't wait."

Book your ticket for the Malanda GROW event on 19 May from 6.30pm10pm at the Top Rail Restaurant by going to www.trybooking.com/CHUFW

Tickets are $30 (plus a booking fee) and include a two-course meal. For more information email: enquiries@malandachamber.org.au

Guest speaker Department of Agriculture and Fisheries dairy development officer Joanna Srhoj.

Guest speaker Lynette McGuffie from the Rural Financial Counselling Service in Atherton.

MC and comedian Georgina Humphries will do a stand-up comedy set at the end of the evening.

ON LANDthe

Milking it for all it’s worth!

BY BRIGITTE DALEY

AS in other parts of Queensland and New South Wales, Atherton Tablelands consumers have also been experiencing milk shortages.

The shortages are being particularly felt as milk is an essential food staple in many households across the nation, and this year, the shortages are being hailed as particularly bad.

Former State and District Councillor for eastAUSmilk for over 20 years, James Geraghty, said the milk shortages apply to all brands of milk and are the worst he has ever known.

“We are producing 250 million litres a year less than we consume,” he said.

Milk shortages were being experienced “across the board” both in Queensland and in NSW.

“Milk from NSW is being sent to supply Queensland and milk is coming up from Victoria to supply NSW shortfalls,” Mr Geraghty said.

“There is always lower pro-

duction at this time of the year but shortages have been more pronounced in the last three years, normally March to June.”

On the Atherton Tablelands, this is traditionally the time of the year when milk is in short supply, however, other factors such as $1 per litre milk, herd calving patterns and seasonal fluctuations in available pasture, have also exacerbated the shortages.

As well, two particularly wet stretches of weather have heavily impacted on the amount of milk that is able to be produced on the Tablelands at present.

“The previous processor told producers that they wanted less milk and this has also compounded the problem,” Mr Geraghty said.

When Millaa Millaa Cheese Factory former manager Ash Hanley visited the town in 2011 for its centenary, he said that in 1936 there were 1159 suppliers on the Atherton Tablelands.

Now there are currently 37, with an additional eight supply-

ing Mungalli.

The Atherton Tablelands dairy industry was a closed industry at one stage, meaning that if someone wanted to become a producer, then they had to buy an existing dairy farm. This ruling has now changed.

The industry was reopened in 2008 enabling prospective producers to purchase and commence operating on previously non-dairying properties.

Several suppliers have ceased dairying in the past few years and have exited the industry, which was always expected due to natural attrition.

As of the 1 July last year, a new supplier has been welcomed into the Tablelands dairying industry.

Producers had their last price increase of 17c per litre, give or take, a year ago on the 1 July 2022.

They are currently waiting to see what the new initial price will be as of the 1 June this year. This price will determine whether it is economic for producers to

commit to producing more milk off their farms.

Having to start work as early as 3am and at times, operating in the pitch dark and pouring rain are some of the factors which can make this an extremely challenging line of work for producers. There is a strong sense of dissatisfaction amongst producers regarding not being paid a fair and reasonable price for the amount of effort and investment that it takes to operate and commit to a dairying operation.

Producers feel that people are willing to readily accept the

price increases that happen for other commodities and services but not so, for milk.

Historically, price increases have been miniscule, with producers “hanging out” for a 0.1c/L or 0.2c/L increase during the 80s and 90s.

Currently consumers are not happy due to the current milk shortages being experienced and producers are far from happy with the price they receive currently.

Russell and Kim Walmsley have been Millaa Millaa suppliers for over 20 years.

“The price rise that we had

last year only just bought us close to being in line with what we need to cover the cost of producing milk,” Russell said.

“Now we definitely need further significant increases to help us keep in line with constantly rising costs.

“Who is going to keep producing a product when there is no decent margin in it for making anything out of it?”

With World Milk Day just around the corner on 1 June 2023, let’s hope that everyone can raise a glass - of milk - to the producers who make it possible for us to have it!

James and Sari Geraghty of Faraway Dairy, Millaa Millaa with Malanda supplier Eddie Sartor. Images: Brigitte Daley

Afternoon milking at Russell and Kim Walmsley’s dairy farm with Ray Cortis (right) and Zac Bormann (left) pictured.

Millaa Millaa supplier Russell Walmsley.

Solve global problems in a civilised manner please

AAAAAGH… what is wrong with our world? We have got the story all wrong, closing down Liddell coal-fired power station will do nothing but put a lot of people out of work around Muswellbrook and the Hunter Valley.

It won’t change the climate one bit, but if you want to lower the amount of Co2 in the air, we should be doing more important changes to other important things that haven’t been openly talked about – until now.

For instance, the massive amount of synthetic nitrogen used in our agricultural industry around the world… do you realise just one kilo of urea applied to crops produces 100kg of Co2 Gas in our air?

Multiply that by millions of tons of urea used around the world in farming and mining and then you really have something to be concerned about.

Plus, the making of urea releases huge amounts of Co2, even before you think about farms or mines.

Simply transporting urea from places like Arabia where it is made, on ships, then in trucks or rail around nations and finally on farm spreading using big diesel tractors all adds to the Co2.

All this is unnecessary as the nitrogen could be produced far more cheaply and effectively on farm, right there in the soil, if people would only listen to the natural scientists and agronomists that are trying desperately to change farming practices and saving farmers millions, and not to mention the extraordinary beneficial changes in the worlds soils, increasing fertility and sequestering carbon/Co2 into the soil, where it should have been in the first place as humus and soil biome/life.

OK, back to Liddell power station. If all power stations had carbon capture and particulate capture there would be no reason for these close downs, and the answer to the problem would not only capture air pollutants but would make money by producing a valuable natural commodity that is needed to improve our soils, improve crops and animal production, plus many other important and useful manufacturing processes around the planet.

Australia and the world are trying to grow seaweed using Co2 simply to grow red seaweed to lower methane production in ruminants, (methane is far worse than Co2 for raising “The Global Warming Effect”).

Well, why not make it mandatory to build giant water tanks at energy power stations and grow seaweed of all types with the available Co2. Seaweed needs Co2 to grow, it is one of the most effective things on our planet for fixing this so-called problem gas.

Every power station would be producing vital commodity used to produce many useful things in industry, from something that is now seen as a problem plus adding to the profit made by the electrical generating plant and employing more people. This, surely, is vital at this time in rural areas.

Yes, what is wrong with you people? Myopic vision I would presume. Surely, if a little person like me can see what is needed, then presumably all the “clever people” in the world simply don’t want to rock the boat

in case they lose their cushy jobs… Oh, sorry, “‘important jobs”.

Yes, I could add a lot more to this story and would if I didn’t feel the vast majority of readers would fall asleep with far too much proven scientific information on the subject, and many people on the land would feel that I was attacking them, which I am not.

In fact, it is the reverse scenario where I am on their side, trying desperately every day to improve farming practices showing them how to make more profit, plus improve soil, farm and personal health.

We want to see the truth related to Co2 and the global warming problem come out in the open - it is obviously laziness on some people’s part and fear in the many, that has exacerbated the overall problem, and this would not have happened if everyone was 100 per cent honest.

For our children’s sake, let’s put our differences aside and solve our global problems in a civilised manner, or it will all eventually fall apart.

Grahame West ATHERTON

Generosity shown in race warms our hearts

IN 2013, our beautiful friends participated in the Great Wheelbarrow Race as members of the Indiestructables team, aiming to raise funds for our family after our precious Indie Rose was diagnosed with Leukaemia.

The Indiestructables devoted countless hours, sacrificed personal time, and worked tirelessly into the late hours of the night to raise an extraordinary amount of money to support us.

During a time when our lives felt like a never-ending nightmare, the Indiestructables brought hope and light into our world. Their unwavering support enabled us to be present at Indie’s bedside, alleviate the financial burden of medical costs, and keep our family home together.

The kindness and generosity of the Mareeba community and its surrounding areas have left an enduring mark on our lives.

I am honoured to have been raised in such a compassionate and empathetic community where people join hands to uplift and support one another through tough times.

This experience has taught us the power of love and support from family, friends, and the community in overcoming difficulties.

We are immensely grateful for the kindness and generosity shown to us. Congratulations to all the teams this year. Your fundraising efforts, no matter the amount, will make an impact on someone’s life.

Best wishes

Jai and Jen Taurima CANBERRA ACT

Would have liked a say over road direction

IN response to your article on Page 9, (Express 03/05/23) “Council backs hotelier.

Many thanks for your efforts in getting this story out there. I can't understand how the Tableland Regional Councillors can make a discussion based on one individual's “hotelier” views without even considering the opinion of each and every ratepayer they

were elected to represent and consult.

LETTERS to the editor VOCAL LOCAL

As a long-term resident and ratepayer, I would have appreciated the opportunity to comment on this particular local transport issue.

Unfortunately, in this instance, the Tableland Regional Council has denied me that democratic opportunity.

Brian Stewart HERBERTON

Harder penalties the way to solve youth crime

WE all know how to solve the youth crime problem only we are not allowed to say it or put it in print or even a picture of the solution.

Let's just say “What the young Aussie in Bali is / was facing.” Yep, that is it. So why are we afraid to say it?

Nothing worries Indonesia, as was shown by the execution of our two drug smugglers, or those Arab countries where they cut your hands off. They're not the least bit worried about human rights, or any other do-gooders.

Sure, it's barbaric, but I would presume there would not be too much crime in those countries.

I would love to be proven that I am on the wrong track, but I don't think so.

Tommy Turbo. ATHERTON

Letter exposed hidden facts on wind farm

IT was a relief to read Matt Lachlan's letter (03/05/23) in regard to the Chalumbin wind farm proposal, showing just some of the discrepancies and hidden facts that these corporations are known to conceal.

The two full-page advertisements they have paid for recently can sound benign and convincing if you know nothing about forests and wildlife.

How many people know what remnant forest is? It's forest that has never been cut down.

There’s about two per cent left in Australia containing plants and animals that we don't even know exist, that could potentially be very useful to society, as in medicine.

Solar power set up on already-cleared land would be a much better option and it's not true that solar cannot provide night time power.

Two examples are salt which stores heat to run steam turbines and pumped hydro –these are also much cheaper that using batteries.

Hafwen Slorach MOUNT MOLLOY

Residents responded en masse to our post asking about CCTV in Byrnes Street, if it was needed and why...

Given the regularity and escalating vandalism and threatening behaviour, it would be great to have more footage to capture the offenders. However for safety, it’s pretty much useless unless the cams are monitored 24/7 – Jill Cowie-Taylor.

Good CCTV coverage is a must to apprehend and charge offenders. What happens next though? – David Morrison.

Yes, it is absolutely needed. Before the CCTV footage came to light, the advice was that police couldn't identify the person's responsible for the assault. Public outcry and the availability of the footage ensured that the perpetrators were identified. They are all known to police. Now we have charges laid. Now imagine if we could pursue the property damage. Enough of Youth Justice telling the police not to proceed with charges for property offences. They have fingerprints for most of these offences. They KNOW who did it, they just aren't telling the victims of the crimes. A bit hard to deny it when you are caught on camera – Claire Annette.

As owners of a commercial building in Byrnes Street we are charged a special rate, “Mareeba Benefited Area 1 Special Rate”, the sum of $500 per year. Add up the number of premises that pay this special rate and I am sure that the council would have ample funds to install CCTV cameras in strategic areas along Byrnes Street. Council, WHY NOT – Gordon Shelton.

Yes to CCTV for Byrnes Street - with the boldness of the offenders -they would at least be able to identify them if not deter them – Gail Leonardi.

CCTV help identify offenders so the court system can let them out again… go figure – Richard Hopper.

Yes, the whole business area should be covered, the council should pay for it, that’s why we pay so much money out in rates! Hopefully the council wakes up to help fix this problem before Mareeba goes to the pits –Shane Drummond.

There is a local security company offering to conduct K9 patrols. Maybe some funding towards hiring him – Adele Marie.

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

PHOTO OF THE WEEK

The theme was “Australian landscapes”. After a swim and drive around Lake Tinaroo we stopped at Euramo lake, put up the drone and was luckily enough to capture this shot over the dam.

PROPERTY

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Construction continues

22 Main Street, Atherton Phone: 4091 7111

CLASS & COMFORT

Atherton

• Modern, spacious and private

• 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms

• Great sized kitchen

• Entertainment area

• Established gardens

• Double garage

$565,000 L22370576

Suzey Whitby0438 090 306

PICTURE PERFECT GRAZING

Butchers Creek

• Set on 67 hectares

• Fenced paddocks

• 2x waterfalls, permanent water

• Solid 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom home

• Self-contained granny flat

• Butcher’s shop + coldroom

Offers Over $1,650,000L20918451

Morgan Brennan0407 730 450

MOONDANI Avenue and Kutterbul Court continues at Amaroo (Stage 13A) located down Moondani Avenue which offers an amazing opportunity to build your dream home with a breath-taking surrounding in a private area.

This stage features 15 affordable lots, all with wide frontages, town water, underground power, sewerage & NBN. Lot sizes range from approximately 800sqm -1642sqm, giving you plenty of room to build the home you have dreamed of.

Pop into the Amaroo Land Centre for any information or call Ryley on 0409 321 000 if you would like to arrange an inspection, at a time that best suits you.

Don’t miss out on turning your dreams into reality in 2023. Follow us on our socials or check out our website www. amarooestate.com.au for all updates regarding our upcoming stages.

Atherton

PICTURE PERFECT!

Carrington

• Modern 5 year old home

• 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 car

• Fireplace and airconditioning

• Entertainment patio

• Veggie gardens, fruit trees

• 2 bedroom self-contained granny flat

$897,000 L21572422

Suzey Whitby0438 090 306

NEXT FARMING VENTURE

Ravenshoe

• Set on 170.44 hectares

• WIWO dairy farm (operating)

• Undulating and clean pastures

• Well watered, quality supply

• Fenced with laneways

• 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom home

$ P.O.A. L22196243 Morgan Brennan0407 730 450

Margaret Black: Principal www.raywhiteruralatherton.com.au

Bundella - 260 Acres • 500 meg water allocation • 3 titles

AFTER almost 60 years in the same family this is a rare opportunity to purchase tightly held farming country located within 10 minutes of Atherton, Malanda and Yungaburra.

With a history of dairying, grazing and cropping this farm boasts arable, fertile, red volcanic soil, over 1.5km of barron river frontage backing on to state forest and 2km of road frontage.

Property features include:

· 260 Acres in total with 220 acres currently being used for grazing and 40 acres used for rotational crops of Rhodes Grass and Potatoes.

2 Centre Pivot irrigators covering over 120 acres with the remainder able to be watered using hard hose irrigation.

· Grazing paddocks are

planted out annually with Rye Grass under the centre pivots while the remainder are predominately Seteria, Guinea and Glycine.

Property is watered by irrigation from the Barron River and also a Dam fed by Goonara Creek. There is also a domestic bore for the house, shed and troughs.

Lovely 4 bedroom home, with plenty of space and character.

2 sheds approx 11m x 18m with high clearance

2500 tonne silage pit with concrete floor

75m x 18m feed lot with

concrete floors and troughs and effluent pond

· Yards with loading ramp and crush.

This property will impress Graziers with its high carrying capacity and history of exceptional weight gain.

Offered for sale by Expression of Interest closing 2nd June 2023.

Contact Exclusive Listed Agent Michelle Raso for a full Information Memorandum or to arrange an inspection.

Address: 605 East Barron Road, EAST BARRON

Price: Expressions of Interest

Agent: Michelle Raso Elders Real Estate Malanda

Contact: 0428 116 136

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Private rural living

COMPLETE serenity and privacy, this lovely small acreage property is the perfect combination of rural & residential living.

Open plan in layout; the living, dining and kitchen all have timber floors with multiple accesses to the lovely deck, a great transition from indoor to outdoor living.

The kitchen offers plenty of bench space, storage and direct access to the deck as well.

There are 3 bedrooms, all with ceiling fans & 2 have built-ins.

The family bathroom has both a walk-in shower & bath with a separate toilet.

Underneath the home is the laundry and large storage/entertainment area complete with its own shower and toilet.

The spacious deck wraps

around 3 sides of the home allowing you to enjoy the privacy and outlook of the established gardens.

The massive 4 bay shed has ample space for vehicles & storage along with further a further carport for the home.

There is a chook pen, veggie gardens & a creek at the boundary to further complete the rural lifestyle.

Close to Lake Eacham for a quick dip or a lovely bush walk around the scenic paths.

Contact Exclusive agent Suzey Whitby at Ray White Atherton today on 0438 090 306 for further information. www.raywhiteruralatherton.com.au/L21659892

Address: LAKE EACHAM

Price: REDUCED $693,000

Agent: EXCLUSIVE to Suzey Whitby Ray White Atherton

Contact: 0438 090 306 or 4091 7111

Along the river we live

FOR SALE

BEST OFFERS BY 4PM THURSDAY 18TH MAY

17810

KENNEDY HIGHWAY, MOUNT GARNET

Spanning over 3.33 Hectares this parcel of land is the perfect block of land to build your dream home or your next business development. With a selection of invaluable assets, this vacant block is situated in the remote, yet desirable location.

• ZONE: Commercial Industrial.

Boundaries are approximate

SITUATED peacefully only

15 minutes from Mareeba CBD sits this 40 acre allotment at 33 Querin Road, Biboohra.

With an abundance of space and privacy you can escape the hustle and bustle of town and enjoy a quiet rural lifestyle without the drive.

The main house on the property features 4 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, and a modern kitchen.

There are worker quarters as well with 5 bedrooms and all amenities.

The 44m x15m (approx.) shed also has workers quarters with 3 bedrooms.

There are 30 acres of cleared land on the prop-

erty, and 230m (approx.) of Barron River frontage and a seasonal creek running near the house to enjoy.

• 40 acres

• Barron River frontage

• Seasonal creek

• 15 minutes to Mareeba CBD

• Main house (4 bedrooms, 1 bathroom & modern kitchen)

• Workers Quarters (5 bedrooms, all amenities)

Address:

Price:

Agent:

Contact:

• 44m x 15m shed (workers quarters, 3 bedrooms)

• 30 acres of cleared land

• No close neighbours

• FOR SALE BY TENDER BY 31ST MAY 2023

For more information or to arrange an inspection please contact exclusive aggent Vince Costas at Central Realty Mareeba.

• 3.33 hectares of land.

• 500m of highway frontage on the Kennedy Highway (ability to add signage or access).

• 2 phase power and transformer at the southern end of block.

• 5 min walk to the Mount Garnet racecourse, rodeo ground and golf club.

• 4km to Mt Garnet township.

• 700m of bitumen access across Gunnawarra Road & Kennedy Highway.

• Existing bore details on site. Depth to water table is 7.5 metres. Depth to bottom of bore pipe is 30 metres. Bore strength is 120 litres / minute (very good). Portable and high quality water.

• Block gently slopes down to the north with a large at area (approx. 4 acres) adjacent the intersection between Kennedy Highway & Gunnawarra Road.

For more information

please contact Sam Patterson on 0401 240 042

Sam Patterson Director 0401 240 042

sam@dukerealty.com.au

PROPERTY

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

A Beautiful Acreage Perfectly Positioned

PERFECTLY positioned on the outskirts of the Tolga Township is this lovely acreage property complete with a solid masonry block home, fenced paddocks and a massive lockable stable/ shed approximately 255sqm under roof.

• Gently Sloping 1 Hectare Of Land – Fenced Paddock For Cattle Or Horses Includes Water Trough, Holding Yard & Ramp

• Home Is Solid Masonry Block Throughout

• 4 Bedrooms – Ceiling

Fans In All Bedrooms – 3 Bms Feature Built-In Cupboards

• Spacious Open Plan

Living/Dining Area Opening Onto Front & Rear Patio’s

• Wood Heater In Lounge For Those Cooler Months

• Well Appointed Kitchen With Electric Appliances, Pantry & Provision For Dishwasher

• Spacious Rear Patio Is Connected To Carport Area Giving You Good Space For Entertaining

• Two Bay Tandem Garage With Electric Roller Door

• 6x4m Lockable Shed With 6x2.5m Lean To –Mezanine Floor For Storage

- Ride On Mower Included

• Massive 16.7x15.3m Stable/Storage Shed At

Back Of The Property

• Chook Pen Beside Shed

• Easy Care Vinyl Floor

Coverings & Security

Screens Throughout

• Back Patio Over Looks Paddock As Well As Citrus Trees, Avocado Trees & Raised Veggie Beds.

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

Address: 37 Wiilllows Road, TOLGA

Price: Offers Invited

Agent: EXCLUSIVE to Daimin Kochi Main Street Real Estate

Contact: 0448 916 246

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

Malanda lifestyle retreat

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

The home lends itself to shared living or offers plenty of space to house a large family.

There are 2 large living areas plus a fully enclosed sunroom which offers great views of your paddock.

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

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

The house is connected to town water and there are 2 newly installed septic waste water systems. This property sits within residential zoning and a proposed reconfiguration into residential lots has been drawn up with the plan available to the new buyer should they wish to explore this option.

Features include:

• 4 bedrooms

• 2 separate living areas

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

• Modern kitchen with large pantry, dishwasher, rangehood

Easy to live in, easy to clean

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

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

for storing all the extras.

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

• 2 separate bathrooms in house + 1 in shed

• 10 kw solar panels

• Internal laundry

• Office/gym room

• Mud room

• Enclosed veranda/living space on 3 sides with views

• Double carport

• Security screens

All round great property with stunning views wherever you look, book your private inspection now with Exclusive Marketing Agent Collette Rowston from Raine & Horne Atherton. 0419 733 712

Address: 49 Hillcrest Road, MALANDA

Price: $698,000

Agent: EXCLUSIVE to Collette Rowston Raine & Horne Atherton

Contact: 0419 733 712

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

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

There is double lock up garage and a garden shed

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

club, and the showgrounds. For more information, call Trisha Jackson at Professionals Atherton. Phone 4091 3955 or 0419 1833 145 anytime.

To view more photos, visit athertonrealestate.com.au

Address: ATHERTON

Price: $445,000

Agent: Trisha Jackson Professionals Atherton

Contact: 0419 183 145

Your own botanical garden

The search is over! Here it is... Your very own private oasis. This beautifully presented 3 bedroom home is tucked privately away from the road and surrounded by nature’s beauty in a very sought-after area.

From the moment you arrive, you’ll be captivated by the beauty of this property. The lush greenery, manicured gardens and mature trees create a sense of tranquillity that’s hard to find.

Features Include;

• Rendered block internal & external walls

• 3 carpeted bedrooms all with built in robes

• Bathroom with a walk-in shower & vanity unit. Separate toilet.

• Open plan kitchen/ dining room

• Kitchen with electric appliances, rangehood, breakfast bar, pantry, servery to enclosed entertainment area, and ample storage space

• Separate spacious lounge room

• Air-conditioned

Off grid acreage

HAVE you been looking for that perfect off grid property?

This 104.65 acre property with predominantly rainforest has a lot to offer.

Entry into the block is

secured by a gravel track, leading to the home.

The home is formed by a large shed with a cosy family space with open plan kitchen, dining, living area on one end and a large car-

avan on the other end of the shed.

The caravan can be converted into 2 more bedrooms if needed.

The kitchen is offering beautiful Qld maple timber

cupboards, electric oven, gas cooktop, rangehood and plenty of bench space as well as a lovely view out to the gardens. Polished timber floors throughout are adding to the attractiveness

main bedroom, living room and lounge room

• Sunroom/enclosed entertainment area with a cosy fireplace

• Outdoor entertainment deck overlooking backyard – entertain in privacy!

• Oversized double remote-control garage + 2 bay carport

• 15m x 9m powered shed fully insulated & sealed with a high bay for a caravan, built-in work benches, man cave room and a bathroom

• 3.5KW Solar power

+ Solar hot water – Save on those electricity bills

• Very private fully fenced 4,991m2 corner allotment with dual street access

• Generator back up

• Security screens, electric gate & security cameras

• 22,000L rainwater tank connected to house, shed & gardens

• Beautiful wellmaintained irrigated gardens

• Fern house

• Located only 9 kms from Atherton Town Centre With so much to offer, this is an opportunity not to be missed!

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

Address: 2 Wilkinson Drive, TOLGA

Price: $685,000

Agent: EXCLUSIVE to Raquel Cunzolo Sommerset Realty

Contact: 0408 983 879

of this living space.

Leading from there is a spacious bedroom with high ceiling and an adjacent small room lending itself to make a great walk-in closet.

A wood fireplace keeps it all warm and dry throughout the colder/wetter times. Shower and toilet are located in the shed, separate to the living area. The centre area of the shed is ideal for undercover entertainment or car parking. The brand new, high quality 10kw solar system with inverters and batteries is more than sufficient to satisfy all your electrical needs and more.

A small creek not far from the home, runs through the rainforest as well as some walking tracks that have been established and can

Address:

Price:

be further explored and expanded on, throughout the forest.

Gardens and small paddocks have been created with the view of being selfsufficient.

Fences/Trellises were erected to aid in growing and supporting plants and fruit trees.

Four brand new green houses have been built (12m long x 4.2m wide x 3m high) with airflow regulating sides walls and power to the site.

Even the chickens and their quaint little home are part of this sale. Don’t miss out on this rare opportunity, call exclusive agent Susanne Reynolds on 0408 733 149.

Agent: Susanne Reynolds

Millaa Millaa Real Estate

Contact: 0408 733 149

Superb investment - net return of 6.6%

IF you’re looking for a high set home that offers multiple living areas, is centrally located and has all the extras you require then this is the one for you!

It’s positioned within easy walking distance of Mareeba CBD and is immaculately presented and reflects a feeling of ‘yesteryear’ retaining many of the original ornate features of its era including high ceilings, tongue & groove walls, casement windows, polished timber floors & beautiful timber fretwork.

It also boasts a modern, separate, fully self-contained 1 bedroom granny flat with it’s own enclosed rear patio plus a sizeable room off the carport perfect for working from home.\

Other features include:

• Superbly situated on a 1013m2 fully fenced allotment in town centre

• Well maintained 2 bedroom plus sleepout, 2 bathroom home - 2 bedrooms plus sleepout, Kitchen, dining, bathroom & lounge upstairs & 2nd bathroom, toilet & laundry downstairs

• Polished timber flooring in most of the upstairs area

• Sizeable & well maintained original kitchen with upright electric oven/gas cooktop

• Split-system air-conditioned living area & 2 bedrooms

• Downstairs area fully enclosed & lockable with concreted floor & storage room

• Separate masonry block 1 bedroom granny flat

– Air-conditioned & gener-

ous in size with kitchenette, lounge/living area & master bedroom with walk in robe & bathroom/toilet access plus security screens & a private, sizeable enclosed rear patio

• Large Carport with roller door access & adjoining 7m x 5.5m rumpus room/games room – perfect as an office/ work from home arrangement

• 24 panel solar power system + solar hot water & rainwater tank

• Rear yard area with open storage shed

• Centrally located within

easy walking distance to all town facilities

• Superb investmentcurrently rented for $650 per week

If you’re looking for something that will fit the family & all the extras and have your heart set on a convenient location then you will need to inspect this unique property immediately!

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

Address: 119 Walsh Street, MAREEBA

Price: Offers Over $425,000

Agent: EXCLUSIVE to Joe Torrisi Joe Torrisi Real Estate

Contact: 0417 700 468

EXPRESS

TAKE A BREAK

BIG WORD SEARCH CROSSWORD

15 a waterproof hat with a broad flap covering the neck (9)

16 a curving trajectory (3)

18 propulsion system for boats (8,5)

20 a form of singing which involves repeated and rapid changes of pitch (5)

21 a set of headphones, typically with a microphone attached (7)

Down

1 a place regarded as a center for a specified group, activity, or interest (5)

2 without a break in continuity (13)

3 open to discussion or argument (9)

4 give a new name to (6)

5 a man who is rough or clumsy and unintelligent (3)

SUDOKU

Across

1 talk in a rambling manner (7)

5 perennial northern temperate plant with toothed leaves and heads of small purplish-white flowers (5)

8 a structure of joined bars or logs for children to climb on (8,5)

9 behave in the way specified (3)

10 an exercise designed to test the time needed for a task or activity (4,5)

12 as a result of this document or utterance (6)

13 unusually bright regions on the sun (6)

Puzzle Solutions

6 a slender predatory insect with a triangular head, with large forelegs folded like hands in prayer (7,6)

7 the pointed hollow end of a hypodermic syringe (7)

11 rare infectious disease that can attack your skin, lungs, eyes, and lymph nodes (9)

12 the study of past events, particularly in human affairs (7)

14 stiffness of manner or character (6)

17 a unit of weight for precious stones (5)

19 a viscous liquid derived from petroleum (3)

WEEKLY HOROSCOPES

Mar 21 - Apr 19

This week, you’re uncovering a treasure map. You might find your energy dips, use this to your advantage and take some time for some self care. Later in the week, you could be looking to plug those small leaks in your finances before they sink the boat.

JUN 21 - JUL 22

This week, you’re getting more help than usual. As it almost always is, your intuition is strong. If it’s been a while since you tuned in, pay attention to how your body responds to things. Our bodies remembers the soul connection even when the brain forgets.

sep 23 - oct 22

This week, you’re really going places. You might receive a bit of publicity today, your reputation could preceed you in the best way. You could be facing an internal battle between your ambition and that little voice of insecurity, remind yourself how far you’ve come.

Dec 22 - Jan 19

This week, you’re creating something extraordinary. You might find yourself wanting to express yourself in a very personal way, whether that is dressing in a way that empowers you or looking into getting a tattoo. You want to express yourself creatively.

apr 20 - may 20

This week, it doesn’t matter which way you go because you’ll find your way. Early in the week be on the lookout for miscommunications. After Wednesday you could be feeling very confident. If you can work past the self doubt you’ll be opening doors to opportunities.

JUL 23 - AUG 22

This week, you’ll be filled with energy and personal power. It’s a great time for meditating on and visualising how the atoms that make up your body are also the atoms that make up the infinite cosmos. You can tap into that infinite source at any time.

oct 23 - nov 21

This week, you can make something beautiful. You might have the opportunity to rebuild a connection. There might have been some difficulty and hurt in the past. You have the opportunity to work out your differences, as long as both sides take responsibility.

Jan 20 - Feb 18

This week, there’s something new at home. You might start the week with a simple routine task and find it snowballs into a meandering adventure. There could be some big family changes. With all this going on, many will be looking at you to

and lead.

May 21 - Jun 20

This week, you’ll get a spiritual helping hand. Early in the week you could be susceptible to a sales pitch. Try to keep your long term goals in mind. Later in the week you’ll be clearing spiritual blockages, watch for the many synchronicities that cross your path.

Aug 23 -Sep 22

This week, the way forward is clear. This week you’ll be making a difference, whether you’re working with a community or charity group or just picking up some rubbish on your walk. It all matters. Later in the week all options are on the table now.

nov 22 - dec 21

This week, there are some wild possibilities. If it sounds too good to be true, then it probably is. This is not a good time to bet the farm. You might be feeling inclined to get your health back on track, this isn’t a sprint so make like the tortoise, slow and steady always wins

Feb 19 - Mar 20

This week, you’re trying a new path. There’s romance in the air. You and your sweetheart might make time for a coffee and a chat or something more. If you’re happily single, remember to romance yourself, make a nice meal and enjoy it with a movie or good bok.

SVANOSIO, Emilia Ann

Passed away peacefully on the 9th of April, 2023. Aged 90 years.

A private cremation was held.

Beloved Mother of Shane Bonser and family. Sister of Mario Svanosio (Dec.) and Family, and Valma Musumeci and family. Emilia will be greatly missed by our families.

“The sadest part of life is when the person who gave you the best memories becomes a memory.”

David

Alfred Pryce Vaux

Passed away in Philadelphia, US, on 30th April, 2023. Aged 75 years. He taught at Mount Saint Bernard College, Herberton (1988-2001), St. Barnabas Anglican School, Ravenshoe (1979-83), St. Teresa’s Catholic College, Abergowrie (1975-78) and trained at Newcastle Teachers’ College (1970-72). He served with Qld Arts Council, and the Baha’i and Quaker communities. Memorial details to follow.

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

THE FAMILY OF THE LATE Donald George Simmons

“Always Farming”

Would like to thank the dedicated medical staff who cared for Don. We would also like to thank the Uniting Church community, Family and Friends for your unwavering support and love during this time. Please accept this as our personal thanks, we sincerely appreciate it. Margaret, Janette, Donna and families.

FUNERAL NOTICE

VAN ECK, Victoria

(Nee Fenech)

Late of Carinya, formerly of Powley Road, Barrine and Middlebrook Road, Millaa Millaa.

06/05/34 ~ 18/05/12

Pietro (Peter) Giagnori

17.06.1923 ~ 30.09.2005

“You left us beautiful memories, Your love is still our guide. And though we cannot see you, You’re always at our side.”

Forever in our hearts.

Rita, Tina and families

IN

LOVING MEMORY OF Jenny Freeman

10.04.1966 ~ 16.05.2022

Fondly remembered by partner Norm, family and friends.

Alick Wayne Archer

09.01.1953 ~ 15.05.2013

Our special memories of you, Will always bring a smile. If only we could have you back, For just a little while. Then we could sit and talk again, Just like we used to do. You always meant so much to us, And you always will.

From your loving wife Evelyn and family.

Passed away peacefully with her family by her side at the Atherton Hospital on Friday the 5th of May, 2023. Aged 93 years Beloved Wife of Bill (Dec.). Loving Mother, Mother-in-Law and Grandmother of Patricia, Wilton, Bernadette, Michael, Johannus and their families. Dearly loved Sister and Aunty.

Family and friends of Victoria are respectfully invited to attend her funeral which is appointed to move from Mountain View Chapel, Guilfoyle’s Tablelands Crematorium, 3 Nasser Road, Atherton on Thursday 18th May, 2023 after a service commencing at 10am, for internment in the Atherton Cemetery.

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

ABORIGINAL shields, boomerangs, clubs, stone axes etc PH: 0411746755

GOLDJEWELLERY, fifty cent round coins, bank notes, watches, nuggets, sovereigns PH: 0421830923

ANIMAL OF THE WEEK

NAME: Octavia DOB: 09/08/2022

BREED: Johnson Bulldog x Smithfield Cattle

I am very affectionate, happy girl. I’m great with kids, cats and other dogs. I come vet checked, vaccinated, microchipped, desexed, wormed and flea & tick treated. My adoption fee is $300.

If you would like to meet OCTAVIA - please call 0487 430 443

EFTPOS Available

PUPPIES

Border Collie/ Kelpie Cross

Pups For Sale

Parents are both good workers, 9 weeks old, wormed, 3 girls and 1 boy available. $200

P: 0448 928 673

BIN0013299347302

3 Brooklands Rd, Mount Surprise Q.4871

2 bedroom home, train carriage, sheds and more on approx. 3/4 acre.

INFO: https://bit.ly/3BrooklandsMtSurprise

$220,000 ONO • P: 0457 679 018

2020 Mercedes Sprinter 4x4 Camper

3 litre V6 7 speed automatic, high/low range, twin batteries, 240 volt inverter, GPS, radio, USB port, UHF radio, LED driving and inside lights, reversing camera, tow bar, warranty to 2025, speedo 34,883 klms, queen sized bed, curtains, large storage space under bed, pullout drawers at rear, electrical flush porta-loo, twin suspension seats, stainless steel pull-out kitchen, 95L water tank, long range fuel tank, 75L pull-out fridge/ freezer, wind-out awning, awning tent, extra 4 near-new steel rims and tyres, outside 2 gas bottle rack.

Price: $130,000 Negotiable

Phone Tony on Mobile 0427 977 785

GARAGE SALE

Saturday 20 May

33 Bellamy Drive, Tolga

8.00am - 2.00pm

Tools, wheelbarrow, established plants, glassware, crockery, TV and more. CASH ONLY!

HIRE

WOODSPLITTER FOR HIRE

$200 Per Weekend

PHONE: 0419 644 852

Viliana Giagnori

Position Vacant Public notice

EARLY CHILDHOOD TEACHER

First Steps Early Childhood Learning Centre is looking for an enthusiastic Early Childhood Teacher, who has a passion for teaching through play and keen to work in a team of highly dedicated and experienced educators. This amazing opportunity is a full-time position offering 10 weeks paid holidays during school holidays and teacher award wages.

Expressions of interest to contact Samuel Wright on 40917757 or via email: samuel@firststeps.com.au

RECEPTIONIST AND ADMINISTRATION SUPPORT

Part-time permanent

A position is available in our Mareeba office for a receptionist and administrative support person to join our team.

The role will be 20 hours (minimum) to 30 hours per week during business hours, to be mutually agreed with the successful candidate.

You will be working in a supportive and friendly environment, with on-the-job training and development opportunities.

The role is suited to someone who:

• Has a positive nature

• Has an excellent telephone manner and a commitment to client service

• Is motivated, self-driven, reliable and professional

• Is able to work as a team and independently

TENANCY OFFICER

Mareeba Community Housing Company is seeking part time Tenancy O cer to work at our Mareeba o ce 3 days per week with exible work hours and days.

is candidate we are seeking will be highly motivated, organised, committed to quality tenants’ services, willing to undertake professional development, high level of written and communication skills, competent in the use of electronic data base and IT programs and integrate into our housing team.

Certi cate IV in Social Housing or relevant experience working in private rental sector is desirable with knowledge of Queensland tenancy legislation.

Position description and application process is available by contacting the o ce on 4092 6899 or email: reception@mchc.org.au

Position closes Friday 26th May, 2023.

UNIT SUPPORT OFFICER (Facilities / Grounds Focus)

Tinaroo Environmental Education Centre (EDUCATION QLD)

Applications are invited for the temporary position of temporary Unit Support Officer at the Tinaroo Environmental Education Centre. Applicants must be available to work week days and between the hours of 6.00am and 6.00pm. The successful applicants will subject to:

• A Working with Children Check. Confirmation of employment is conditional upon the applicant being issued with a Blue Card

• Criminal History Check

For further information or to obtain a Role

Description, please contact the Business Manager by email: bsm@tinarooeec.eq.edu.au

Applications should include 3 page resume detailing work history, any relevant qualifications and referees.

Applications close on Wednesday 24 May, 2023 at 1.00pm and should be either emailed to: bsm@tinarooeec.eq.edu.au

Or posted to:

Business Manager, Tinaroo Environmental Education Centre, PO Box 65, Kairi QLD. 4872 and marked confidential.

• Has experience with the Microsoft Office suite Prior experience as a receptionist or secretary is preferred, however it is not a requirement.

Further details of the role and how to apply is provided at: https://www.millerharris.com.au/ careers/

WHERE: Mt Carbine Rodeo Grounds

WHEN: Saturday 20th May, 2023

TIME: 9.00am

(Admission $5 includes morning tea)

• Lucky Door • Raffle • Cent Sale

• Scrumptious Morning Tea

• Good Company and Lots of Fun!

For more details:

Karen Pedersen 4094 8337

All proceeds go to the Cancer Council.

FACQ-MSC2023-01

MOWING & LAWN MAINTENANCE FOR MAREEBA AERODROME

Quote documents are available on Council’s online e-procurement system, VendorPanel- https://www. vendorpanel.com.au/PublicTenders.aspx. All enquiries or clarifications must be via the online forum which will close 7 days prior to closing time. Council officers are unable to respond to verbal or emailed enquiries.

The closing time for electronic lodgement of Quote is 11.00 am Tuesday 30 May 2023.

Regulation 228(7) of the Local Government Regulation 2012 may be applied.

Quote will not be opened publicly. The lowest or any quote not necessarily accepted.

Peter Franks

Chief Executive Officer PO Box 154, MAREEBA QLD 4880

T-MSC2023-16

GAMBOOLA CROSSING BRIDGE CONSTRUCTION

Mareeba Shire Council is pleased to invite tenders from suitably qualified contractors for the construction of a new Gamboola Crossing Bridge over the Mitchell River, Strathleven Road.

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 5 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 2.00 pm Tuesday, 6 June 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

SPORT

Grace shoots to place in top three

ATHERTON’S top shooter, Grace Grandcourt, has proved once again she can punch above her weight after coming second in the ladies open division during the recent IPSC 2023 National Handgun Championships held in Adelaide.

Grace travelled down south from 1-6 May to compete in the championships both as an individual and in a team, she competed in the Queensland Silver Team which placed third.

So far to date, Grace has competed in three national championships including this most recent one – she got first in the Super Junior Production Division (under 16 years) in 2021 and first again in Junior Open Division (under 21 years) just a

year later

“It feels really good to represent Queensland at such a high-level match,” Grace said.

“It really lifts Far North Queensland's profile in the sport, we have a lot of talented shooters on the Tablelands.

“I recently had the honour to gain a sponsorship with Bul Amory and Practical Shooting Supplies a very rare opportunity in Australia.”

Grace is excited to keep competing in national competitions in the lead-up to her next goal, the World Titles in South Africa in 2025, a stepping goal on her journey to one day become a world champion.

Crankworx action ready to tackle Smithfield tracks

ACTION has kicked off on the renowned tracks of Smithfield as the world-wide event Crankworx begins its Cairns event this Wednesday, running until Sunday.

Crankworx is a worldrenowned competition that brings together the best in the business to compete at some of the most beautiful locations on Earth.

Dubbed “The Paradise Edition”, the Cairns event is slated to bring in tens of thousands of locals who will either spectate, volunteer or ride in the competition.

Events in this year include Slopestyle, Downhill, Dual Slalom, Speed & Style, Pump Track, and Whip- Off, among others.

Racing action at Crankworx Cairns, as well as at all other stops on the 2023 Crankworx World Tour, will be available live and on demand on Red Bull TV.

Tourism Tropical North Queensland chief executive officer Mark Olsen said Crankworx was a game changer that would position Tropical North Queensland as an internationally

renowned mountain biking destination.

“The inaugural Cairns Crankworx last year showcased the destination and its world-class mountain biking infrastructure to hundreds of thousands of people around the world,” he said.

The top 16 slopestyle athletes in the world will be competing at this year’s event, offering the only chance for Aussies to see these elite athletes in the flesh as they pull out all the stops for precious Crankworx points.

For many local and Australian riders, this is a chance to not only test their abilities but also to rub shoulders with their heroes – the elite athletes who inspire them and set the standard for the sport.

12,500 people are expected to flock to the Smithfield Mountain Bike Park for Crankworx this year from international, national and local markets.

For more information and to get your hands on your festival pass head to www. crankworx.com/cairns

Volunteers needed for historic racing club Nasho shoot success

THE Mareeba Speedway is putting the call out to any interested rev heads with a love of racing to put their hands up and become part of the club’s volunteering family.

The club celebrated its 50 years of rich racing history late last year with a special race meet and dinner and now, they are putting the call out for locals to become involved in keeping the club alive. Volunteers are desperately needed for nearly every facet of the club including in the bar, canteen, ticket booths and even the crash crew – people with experience in the fire service is sorely needed.

Mareeba Speedway president Scott Davis said without volunteers, the club would have to stop operating as the national guidelines require a certain number of volunteers for specific roles such as stewards and officials.

“Each year we are always short of volunteers and it makes it really hard on the few that are here,” he said.

“Without the volunteers, people don’t get to play with their toys in the sandpit – they are so important that you cannot race without them.

“After each race meeting, all of the volunteers and race officials we have our time and have a few drinks and a laugh afterwards as well.”

The club is just a few short weeks away from hosting the first speedway meet of the year and barely a month away from hosting the Prosprints Championships on 7-8 July.

“We cannot exist without volunteers,” Mr Davis said.

“There is not one of us out there that is not a volunteer – the core of the club is volunteers.”

People interested in volunteering their time at the Mareeba Speedway will also get benefits including free entry to race meets.

To become a volunteer, give Mr Davis a call on 0417 609 995.

Volunteers Sought - Interested persons please visit: crimestoppersqld.com.au/volunteer

SHOOTERS turned out in style for the Nasho inter-branch shoot held recently at the Tinaroo SSAA range with locals topping the table taking home first, second and third.

Local shooters dominated the top of the leader board with the first, second and third places shooters all being members of the Tableland branch.

Rusty Vonark came in first with a total of 327.6 points, followed by Ray Byrnes and Doug Smith in second and third with 298.8 and 287.4 points respectively.

A total of 20 shooters from the NSAA Tableland and Innisfail branch attended the event.

Bull ride success at Gordonvale

THE second iteration of the Great Northern Bullriding Series was a sold out event in Gordonvale as hundreds of spectators flocked to the Gordonvale Pony Club to witness the action up close.

Townsville rider Braydon Welby was once again the pick of the riders as he emerged on top in the open bull ride followed by Patrick

Hart in second and Leith Malone in third.

In the junior bull ride, it was Tristan Pye who proved to be the pick of the riders and Caleb Sheahan came home with the win in mini bulls.

The series will now head off to Innisfail next in August.

Atherton’s Grace Grandourt holding her second place trophy for the ladies open division she won during the recent IPSC 2023 National Handgun Championships held in Adelaide.

SPORT

Swimmers celebrate season in the pool

THE Mareeba Swimming Club held their annual presentation awards on Saturday 6 May at the home of the Wildcats, the Mareeba Swimming Pool, as swimmers and parents gathered to celebrate the season’s success.

In attendance was Mareeba Mayor Angela Toppin and councillors Mary Graham and Mario Mlikota alongside a number of the club’s life members.

Mayor Toppin presented her sponsored award of participation medallions and towels to all swimming club members.

Cr Mlikota presented the Speedo Swim Star awards to recipients, Liam Gear, Rocco Carusi, Azahlia Sweeper and Jada Stankovich while the award of Wildest Wild Cat was awarded to Jana Bordeos.

Cr Graham presented the most PB’s (personal best) trophies to Tanasyn Hunter and Harley Sweeper –Tanasyn had

a whopping 52 PB’s from 71 events and Harley had 30 PB’s for the season.

Life member Henry Sciani presented an encouragement award to Rebecca Quintieri while life members Gail Roseblade and Kevin Davies presented trophies to the club’s Swimmers of the Year.

Jada Bordeos received Junior Female while Harley Sweeper was named Junior Male, Senior Female went to Paige Carey while Ian Larard received the Senior Male award.

The kids enjoyed pizza and sushi afterwards and a swim in the pool, it was a nice afternoon to end the 2022/23 season.

The swimming club would like to thank their members for their ongoing support and hopes to come back bigger and stronger in the 2023/24 season after the members enjoy a wellearned break.

Junior Male Swimmer of the Year Harley Sweeper.

Mareeba Mayor Angela Toppin with swimmers after receiving their participation medals and towels.

Speedo Swim Star Award recipient Azahlia Sweeper.

Rocco Carusi receiving his Speedo Swim Star Award.

Jada Stankovich and her Speedo Swim Star Award.

Speedo Swim Star Award recipient Liam Gear.

Senior Female Swimmer of the Year Paige Carey.

Male most PB's Harley Sweeper.

Jana Bordeos receiving the Wildest Wild Cat award.

Rebecca Quintieri with her encouragement award.

Senior Male Swimmer of the Year Ian Larard.

Junior Female Swimmer of the Year Jada Bordeos.

Female most PB’s Tanasyn Hunter.

SPORT

Ashton claims pro title in debut match

BY RHYS THOMAS

JUST a few months after stepping into the pro boxing world, Mareeba local Ashton Cater has become the Victorian Super Featherweight champion after defeating the previous belt holder in his debut fight.

The 26-year-old barely spent a few months in the pro scene before his first fight was

lined up, having no idea he had just signed up to compete for the Australian National Boxing Federation Victorian Super Featherweight title on 6 May in Melbourne.

Already a well-known and accomplished amateur boxer, Ashton had seven Australian Titles, six State Titles, two NQ Games titles, one Western Games Title and five Golden

Gloves Titles under his belt before he decided to go pro December last year.

Ashton moved to Townsville two years ago to pursue an apprenticeship and joined up with Dreams Boxing, training under Shane Hooper.

It wasn’t until a few weeks out from the fight that Ashton found out he would be competing against Izak Handley for the

Come and support the Gators in 2023! VS

belt in his debut fight.

“We weren’t aware it was going to be a title fight, at first they asked for four rounds then they asked for six and chucked in an extra $1000,” he said.

“Two weeks out from the fight they turned around and said it was an Australian National Boxing Federation state title belt.

“I was a bit shocked, I knew he had a few fights previously but I wasn’t really worried –I’ve grown up fighting people in heavier divisions.”

Not one to back down, Ashton steeled himself in the lead-up to the fight and worked hard on his cardio and reaction training.

While stepping into the pro ring wasn’t too big of a change, Ashton said adjusting to the intensity and length of the fight was challenging.

“The step up itself wasn’t too much of a difference, it was more the pressure of being in a professional ring compared to an amateur ring, the rounds are a lot longer as well,” Ashton said.

“In amateurs, I am used to fighting four, two-minute rounds, in pros it is six, threeminute rounds – it may not seem like a lot but I’m sure everyone has tried to do a plank and a minute plank is a long time.

“I was nervous as all hell, I am stepping into the professional world and my opponent trained in the big city where he can train with really good fighters – there is nobody really up here other than Jalen Tait.

“It was hard trying to find good preparation for this fight.”

Ashton overcame his nerves on the night and proved to be the better boxer as he emerged victorious by decision.

“He was a very good fighter and I think he would beat most people I have fought – he was very tough,” he said.

Despite coming home with the belt, Ashton was critical of his performance and felt he did not box to the best of his ability.

“The basics is where it is at, if you neglect the basics you are not going to make it very far,” he said.

“There are a lot of things in that fight I am very disappointed

about, I’m guessing the nerves got the best of me but I should have stuck more to my basics.

“It was a very nerve-wracking fight, I could feel my heart pumping out of my chest.

“I stood still too much, I wasn’t moving and I was just frozen, I had a lot of trouble coping with the pressure of the tournament.”

Ashton will need to travel back down to Melbourne in the coming months to defend his title as the young boxer attempts to make his name know in Australia’s professional boxing scene.

Mareeba local Ashton Cater has been crowned the Australian National Boxing Federation Victorian Super Featherweight champion after his debut match on 6 May. Photos by Tamara Jones Photography.’

SPORT

Gladiators trample Roosters

THREE tries in the opening 20 minutes pushed the Mareeba Gladiators to a 32-16 win over archrivals the Atherton Roosters in Saturday night’s FNQ rugby league premiership match played at Davies Park.

The young Gladiators team started strong against the Roosters and pulled ahead in the early minutes due to a try from Ryan Flegler after a break from Sonny Rea.

The Gladiators quickly backed it up with two quick tries to Ricky Shave and Gabriel Tunimakubu before the Roosters answered back through Ned Blackman.

The scoring in the first half ended just before the break with a try to Trezman Banjo, taking the score to 24-6 leading into halftime.

Atherton came out of the break reinvigorated and dominated early in the second half with a double to Aiden Carson while Gladiator Ian King slotted in a try of his own.

The final try of the game went to the flying front rower Tunimakubu in the 75th minute which took the final score to 32-16.

Gladiators coach Chris Sheppard said it was a tough game which was expected for the local derby as both teams were very spirited and wanted to take the win home.

“We are improving each week and learning what we need to do in different situations – we are young but we are heading in the right direction,” he said.

“We have got to keep working

hard and improving and we will see more wins this season.

“We did not have a bad player and the thing I challenged the group on during the week, I thought we did well for the majority if the game.”

Sheppard said while the whole team performed well, there were a few standout players who helped push the team over the line.

“Our best were Ricky and Sonny

in the centre, our middle was strong and Trezzie (Trezman) kicked well and our bench have us some really good punch,” he said.

“We are still growing and need to keep working hard on our game.”

Mareeba also won the under 18 match 26-20 after the Roosters had led 16-14 at halftime. Roosters won the reserve grade 18-14. The Senior Roosters play the Mossman Sharks at

Unfocused Bulls lose to Comets

LAPSES in concentration has once again proved fatal for the Mareeba Bulls premier men’s side after they went down 2-1 against the Southside Comets on Sunday night.

The Bulls started well and opened the game quickly with a goal, causing the players to become relaxed and the comets took the chance to equalise the game before halftime.

Coming into the second half a lapse of concentration allowed the Comets to slip the final goal through and secured the win for the visitors.

Coach Kane Alderton said once again players were struggling to focus on playing football for the entire 90 minutes, something he hopes to rectify in the coming weeks.

“It just wasn’t our night and we conceded a silly goal,” he said.

“There is still a lot of football to be played, this just means the gap has been tightened now between the top four – we have to be better in areas and make sure we turn up to play.

“It is the old cliché, it’s a 90-minute game, one nil up within five minutes and we sort of slowed down a bit, we have to stay mentally focused for 90 minutes and capitalise on the chances when they come.”

Mossman this Saturday.

The Gladiators will have local derby bragging rights till the they meet again in Atherton on July 21.

Before that the Gladiators will be travelling down to Yarrabah to play the reigning premiers while the Roosters will face off against the Mossman Sharks at Mossman this weekend.

Alderton also said retaining the ball will be a focus for the players as they prepare to face off against the Stratford Dolphins this weekend.

It will be a super Saturday of football at Lindsay Australia stadium this weekend as the juniors take the field all day before the seniors kick off.

The premier men’s side will be playing the Dolphins at 7pm and Alderton hopes to see a mighty turnout of supporters.

Roosters Brett Power meets the Gladiators defence on Saturday night.