The Express Newspaper 19 July 2023

All roads led to Mareeba at the weekend with around 10,000 people descending on Kerribee Park for the anuual Mareeba Rodeo.

Festivities kicked off on Friday night and it was a double celebration for new Queen Raquel France (right) who also celebrated her 18th birthday at the weekend. Pictured with her at the downtown parade was 2023 Princess Amber Collomb.

▪ MORE PAGE 5, 15, 35 and 38

Spirit

www.communityfunerals.com.au

For a loving farewell, not an expensive one

Where only the best is good enough Community

3% rate rise for Cook Shire

COOKTOWN ratepayers will fork out an extra three per cent in rates after the Cooktown Shire Council brought down its budget recently.

Mayor Peter Scott said council had been acutely aware of the higher cost of living when it considered the $97.8 million Budget for 2023-24.

“Council is very conscious of the current cost of living pressures and has worked hard to ensure a responsible budget that continues to deliver essential services to a high standard, while reducing costs wherever possible,” he said.

“The $100 discount for prompt rates payments will remain and council has also kept interest on overdue rates the same as last financial year, instead of raising it around three per cent in line with legislation.

“Council has a difficult task in delivering services at the current level, or better, with a limited rate base, while keeping

those rates and other fees as low as possible.

“To do this, council officers have worked extremely hard to manage ongoing costs and identify efficiencies to ensure costs are kept to a minimum.”

Mayor Scott also announced a $21.7 million capital works program as part of the budget, but $20.9 million of projects have been carried over from last year.

He said council would contribute $744,000 towards new capital projects including $44,000 for repairs to the Coen Water Treatment Plant building; $120,000 to replace pipework and valves at the Cooktown Sewerage Treatment Plant; $200,000 for shovel ready projects; $300,000 for the fleet replacement program; and $80,000 for power improvements at Lions Park.

The budget includes $72.2 million in State and Federal grants to deliver projects.

Ashlyn gives her long locks for sick kids

BY ELLIE FINK

IN a courageous display of compassion, 19-year-old Ashlyn La Rosa has made the brave decision to part ways with her luscious, vibrant red hair, all in support of the remarkable Wigs 4 Kids initiative.

With her locks measuring an impressive 79 centimetres in length, Ashlyn's selfless act will see her hair reduced by 40cm, all for a good cause.

Inspired by the Kids with

Cancer Wigs 4 Kids project, Ashlyn's hair will be transformed into wigs, offering hope to children battling cancer and enduring the loss of their own hair due to chemotherapy treatments.

The idea to donate her hair has always been on Ashlyn’s mind, but until her last hair cut she didn’t know who to donate to.

“I have always thought about donating my hair, but it was overwhelming deciding on who to donate it to,” she said.

“After my last big hair cut which was over two and a half years ago, my hairdresser asked me would I be interested in donating my hair to Wigs 4 Kids.

“I immediately felt this was the best thing for me to do. After having friends and family fight cancer I felt more determined to try make this battle less traumatic for them.

“I am donating my hair to bring joy and happiness back to those children that have lost theirs.”

Ashlyn has already hit the halfway mark of her $2000 fundraising goal, as the countdown is on until the big day arrives at JRHair on 29 July.

Donation’s to Ashlyn’s cause can be made at fundraise.kidswithcancer.org.au/ fundraisers/ashlynlarosa

The operational budget includes $55 million for ongoing maintenance to roads, footpaths, drainage, and public works; $7.7 million to provide water, sewerage and waste services; $3.1 million for community lifestyle projects (pools, libraries, parks and community facilities); $200,000 to develop an accurate mapping system of council’s water and wastewater network to support effective response times; and a $30,000 grant program to encourage investment in business security upgrades, such as CCTV.

Also on the list is a $30,000 grant program for innovative and environmentally sustainable projects, $20,000 to subsidise the cost of dog de-sexing for Cooktown residents; $20,000 for an economic development portal for those wanting to invest in Cook Shire; $10,000 to implement Reconciliation Action Plan initiatives; and $10,000 to support initiatives of the Cook Shire Youth Council.

Ashlyn La Rosa will be cutting 40cm off her 79cm long hair to help create wigs for young kids with cancer.

Vision to make airport a historical drawcard

BY CHELSEA ASHMEADE

A VISION to establish the Mareeba Airport as a tourist attraction is a step closer, with a volunteer group determined to elevate the facility as an historical drawcard given its role in World War II.

Far North Queensland Aviation Museum members are on a mission and feel their idea could become “something really good” for the town.

To help the project continue, the group has applied for, and is awaiting news of, a Queensland Gambling Community Fund grant to build a new hangar.

Last week, the group was excited to host State Tourism Minister Stirling Hinchcliffe who visited the facility to look over the site and the group’s future plans.

FNQAM president Brendan Kent said the meeting was a shot in the arm for the group, with the Minister showing interest in their future plans and inspecting the C-47 Dakota aircraft the group restored.

“The Minister’s visit was a good starting point,” he said.

“The new hangar would provide more space to continue the display which would, in turn, give Mareeba another attraction for visitors.”

The hangars will be used to house restored and refurbished aircraft, memorabilia and artefacts to tell Mareeba’s aviation history.

“The museum really captures the

history and heritage and who we are (as a result of that) today,” Mr Kent said.

Mareeba Airport’s history dates back to its construction which began on 12 May 1942. It became an operational base for the heavy bombers of the US Army Air Force.

It was also home to the Royal Australian Air Force No 100 Squadron (Beaufort Bombers) who were the first unit stationed in Mareeba.

It’s this history FNQAM wants to preserve and share.

FNQAM will work closely with the State Government as they continue to create a space encompassing Mareeba’s aviation history.

“We are looking at an extra four hangars .… from local support and government funding. We should have something really good once it’s finished,” he said.

“We are geographically blessed but

also disadvantaged with funding opportunities (being here at Mareeba).”

With plenty already going on, FNQAM welcomed a Cessna 152 from Aviation Australia in Cairns during June.

Herberton Hardware assisted with its relocation through the use of their tilt tray and a number of student engineers from Cairns Aviation Skills Centre were ready and eager to assist.

This specific aircraft will be refur-

bished as a kids’ play plane in the hope it will encourage and inspire them into aviation-related careers.

Mr Kent said volunteers had been busy building up the museum displays and information boards on the local history and research for future display development.

While there were a number of dedicated volunteers helping each and every week, Mr Kent said there was always room for more.

“We are in need of aircraft engineers to help mentor our students and general volunteers in the restoration of our Dakota, Yale and C152,” he said.

“We’ll also need more welders to help construct some information and display stands.”

If anyone has a spare few hours once a week or even once a month, the team would love to hear from them.

Also, if any locals have any aviation tooling lying around collecting dust, the group would love to get a hold of it for its volunteers to use in the restoration of aircraft.

“This will save us buying new and possibly be of better quality. Please get in touch with what you have and how much you’d like for it,” Mr Kent said.

FNQAM volunteers are at the museum Thursday and Saturday from 9am-12noon at the western end of Mareeba airport. Everyone is welcome to visit. Donations are also welcome to help bring the group’s vision to fruition. For more information visit www. fnqam.com.au.

Pictured in front of C-47 Dakota aircraft (from left) are FNQAM president Brendan Kent, volunteers John Hardy, Andy Smith and Joan Stanton, Tourism Minister Stirling Hinchcliffe, student volunteer Teresa, Mareeba Shire’s Local Tourism Organisation chair Cr Lenore Wyatt, and volunteer Charlie Jennings.

RIGHT: President Brendan Kent and in the Tourism Minister Stirling Hinchcliffe inside the restored C-47 Dakota aircraft.

Local housing plan to be developed for State

MAREEBA Shire Council will develop a Local Housing Action Plan for the Queensland Government as part of its plan to help tackle the housing crisis gripping the State.

While councillors acknowledged the importance of the issue at a recent meeting, they baulked at the thought of having to pay more than $8000 to develop the plan.

But Mayor Angela Toppin said if council didn’t participate in the exercise, the shire could miss out on vital funding.

"...if it's not in the plan, it's likely not to be supported by the State,” she said.

"It's almost a mandatory requirement to have this done so that we do make ourselves very eligible to be supported to make improvements in this space.”

The purpose of the plan is to provide council with a dedicated pathway for implementing specific, localised housing outcomes with the support of specific project resources in the State Government.

“LGAQ has informed council it has received funding to assist councils with the preparation of a LHAP and intends to employ a state-wide Project Manager to assist individual councils,” Mayor Toppin said.

“It is unclear at this stage whether any funds will be made available directly to councils to assist with preparing the plan, such as the purchase of customised housing and demographic data.”

Mayor Toppin said the actual delivery of housing, as identified in the plan, would be the responsibility of the State Government and the private sector with Local Government playing a facilitation role.

“Mareeba Shire Council’s plan will be made available in March 2024 and will be open for community consultation,” she said.

“Council is waiting for feedback from the government if they will compile a consolidated plan and if the full report will be made available.”

At the meeting, Deputy Mayor Cr Kevin Davies felt the State Government should put the plan together.

"It just sits wrong with me that the state is making this mandatory for us - it's something they

brought on by not being proactive - it might not come for two years, this money they have put in, which is needed now,” he said.

"And now they are telling us it's mandatory to have an action plan and for us to get this done, and it will cost us $8000.

"Really the State should be putting this together, and we could feed in what we need in this shire."

Council CEO Peter Franks confirmed the council could get some support from the Local Government Association of Queensland which has a dedicated officer.

"They can support us but we will have to do the plan," he said.

"It makes sense to have it from an advocacy point of view but, as Cr Davies says, it's a bit rich that the State Government mandated all councils to have one."

Funding through the State Government to support the preparation of the plans was announced at the 2nd Queensland Housing Roundtable.

The success of the Gympie Regional Council in delivering the first plan in 2022, and the work being undertaken by 22 councils through the Western Queensland Alliance of Councils to prepare plans and the development of local housing plans with First Nations councils and communities, are also reasons behind the support of the government.

Council moved to have the plan prepared for March 2024, it will then open for community consultation.

"I just hope there is some light at the end of the tunnel and that it does make a difference because at the end of the day, we know this (housing affordability) is a major problem,” Mayor Toppin said.

Local Government Association of Queensland CEO Alison Smith said the plans were tailored to meet the needs of council and the community and there was no requirement for the LHAP to address all cohorts, areas, or towns in a local government area.

Local Housing Action Plans are a commitment under the Queensland Housing and Homelessness Action Plan 2021-2025, and aim to identify needs, solutions and help coordinate responses to rural and remote community housing challenges.

THE Mareeba Lions Club recently inducted new executive members into its ranks.

At a ceremony held last week, Deanna Percy assumed the role of treasurer, while Terry Wallace took on the responsibilities of secretary.

The position of president was handed over to Justice Eales, who succeeded Rico Cabassi, the past president.

Mr Eales was humbled by his appointment of and was keen to take on the responsibilities of the new role.

“I knew about it for a little while, but it's something I am happy to take on, and it will be interesting," he said.

“I chair the meetings when we have them and make sure the procedures we go through stay on track.”

As the newly appointed executive members assume their respective roles, the Mareeba Lions Club looks forward to a productive and impactful future, further cementing its position as a leading community service organisation in the region.

Clubs celebrate new year of service

MAREEBA Rotary held their changeover recently with Caitlin Murray handing the reigns over to new president Chantelle Pedersen.

In her time as president, Ms Pedersen hopes to help build a stronger more vibrant community group that will take on new challenges and projects as much as they can.

“I look forward to working together with members toward building a stronger, more vibrant community and creating hope in the world,” she said.

“I’d like to extend my gratitude to outgoing president Caitlin Murray for her service and thank my incoming board directors for embracing planning of projects and initiatives for the upcoming Rotary year.”

Ms Murray said she welcomed Ms Pedersen into the new role with open arms and reflected on her time as president in 2021/22.

“Over my past year as President we have had some

marvellous events from the Cardiac Challenge, Wheelbarrow Race to our FNQ Field Days,” she said.

“The efforts our club and surrounds has put it its remarkable each year, the family value we hold and the unity we have.

“I am more than happy to welcome arms to new President Chantelle and wish her all the best and know she has passion and ideas for her year. I look forward for the future of our club and the goals we have ready to check.”

New executives for Mareeba Lions treasurer Deanna Percy, secretary Terry Wallace, president Justice Eales with past President Rico Cabassi and past district governor Garth Gleeson.

Mareeba Rotary’s new president Chantelle Pedersen with outgoing president Caitlin Murray at their recent changeover.

Record-breaking Mareeba Rodeo

BY ELLIE FINK

A RETURN to a two-day format saw nearly 10,000 people flock to the Mareeba Rodeo for an action-packed weekend.

For the first time in recent history, camping had to be cut off due to the large number of patrons coming through the gates of Kerribee Park.

Competitors from across the country headed to Mareeba to compete in one of the biggest ABCRA events in Australia and it was Heath Nicholls who took home Top Cowboy whilst Top Cowgirl was tied between Sallie Pilgrim and Robyn McKellar.

In the Mareeba Rodeo Queen Quest, it was Raquel France who took the crown, with Amber Collumb taking the Princess title during Friday night’s downtown parade.

Ms France was proud to be crowned Queen in this year’s quest, following in her mother’s footsteps – Sharelle France (nee. Dyer) was crowned Mareeba Rodeo Queen in 1994.

The best Queen float on Friday night was won by Albina Niceforo, while the best trade display was Ringers Rest, best organisation/community group was Mulungu and best sporting theme was Mareeba Gymnastics.

Mareeba Mothers and Midwives took out best overall float, while Rowena Petersen was named best turned-out rider, and best riding group was Dee’s Horsemanship.

Saturday night had the biggest crowd the rodeo executive committee

had ever seen before, with the rain staying away, as fan favourites, the Mazda Challenge and State of Origin, kicked off at sunset.

Rodeo president Peter Brown said the origin was the biggest highlight of the entire event, attracting Queenslanders and New South “Welshmen” from near and far for the event.

“It all came down to the final ride –it was win or lose,” he said.

“(Other highlights) were the crowning of the Queen on Friday night at the downtown parade which had a fairly big crowd, the state of origin and watching the final bull ride.

“Eli Toby rode really well in the final bull ride on a very good bull called Mexican Joe, taking out the win and it just finished off the weekend perfectly.”

In the final rounds on Sunday afternoon, rain threatened patrons in the grandstands, but it didn’t stop the competitors from putting on a great show.

Champion Lamont bull, Pandemonium, made himself known in the arena once again in what will be one of his final rides as he retires at the end of the year.

Rider Joe Down took on the notoriously difficult bull, hoping to be the first to make eight seconds on the unridden bull.

“He’s a little spinning bull and the bloke who won the overall bull ride, he got on Pandemonium and got seven seconds on him which is the most anyone has ever done,” Mr Brown said.

“Pandemonium, he is a part of the Great Northern Bullriding series, and I

2023 RODEO WRAP

▪ Page 15 – people shots

▪ page 35 – action shots

▪ page 38 – winners

see him at every event, and he is just too good, too fast and too quick and he is little and agile – a true gentlemen.”

Injuries were minimal this year with only a few “bumps and bruises here and there”, according to Mr Brown.

The only major incident was with cowboy, Cody Meade, who took a hoof to the head, splitting his forehead during the saddle bronc in the last hour of the finals.

Although rocking the cowboy, he still walked out of the arena with his

head high.

“He came out in true cowboy fashion and walked out of the arena himself. Those cowboys don’t like being carried out, especially in a packed stadium,” Mr Brown said.

Patrons were well behaved over the weekend with no major incidents from campers and day-goers to report.

Coming back to the traditional twoday event has proved to be popular.

“I certainly think it made it bigger and a bit more tiring because you’ve

got two weeks leading up to the event to get ready,” he said.

“It is tradition – it is a two-day event, and will it be two days next year? Absolutely I think it will be.

“We obviously will need to see how numbers stack up and see whether it can stay to two days or maybe go back to one – we have 12 months to see.”

Mr Brown also congratulated the committee for their hard work and thanked all those who attended the event, making it the success it was.

Joe Down takes on a bull at the Mareeba Rodeo.

AFTER HOURS: 0418 183 399 • FAX: 4035 4021 25 REDDEN ST, CAIRNS • EMAIL: val@tuxworth.com.au

Walk to deliver great views for a great cause

ONE of the best views of the Atherton Tablelands is on offer for those who sign up to the do the annual Mt Emerald Crime Stoppers Fundraising Sunrise Walk next month.

Participants will have to get up before dawn to get to the starting spot at Walkamin to rake part in the walk which raises money to fund activities of the Crime Stoppers Far Northern Volunteer Area Committee.

There are two walks on the day – the main one that is about 14km in length and traverses hilly and steep ground to the top of the wind farm, and the shorter walk, which is about 8km and takes participants from Rocky Creek igloo along the rail trail to Walkamin.

Committee member Norma Maloney said this was the fourth time the event would be held.

“We have raised $16,000 from this walk over the years and it’s a great event for anyone who wishes to not only contribute to what Crime Stoppers do in the community, but the view from the top of the walk is just sensational,” she said.

Taking place on Sunday 20 August, the walk to the top of the Mt Emerald wind farm can

only have 140 participants so anyone thinking of take part should book as soon as possible.

“We already have 58 people registered for the Mt Emerald wind farm walk and five for the shorter walk from Rocky Creek to Walkamin,” Ms Maloney said.

“The walk to the top is considered to be moderate to hard so it really depends on your fitness levels as to whether this will be suitable,” she said,

“The track itself is road base so it’s not rough, but it is quite steep at the end. There is also not a lot of shade along the way, but we will have water stations and first aid along the track and a porta loo at the top.”

Hard hats, that will be sup-

plied to walkers, will be required to be worn at the top when in close proximity to the wind turbines.

Ms Maloney said the event was the “signature” fundraising event for Crime Stoppers and thanked Mt Emerald Wind Farm for its assistance in allowing the walk to take place.

The event attracts people from as far away as Townsville and Cairns, with some of the participants already booking accommodation at the Walkamin Caravan Park for the Saturday night before the walk.

For those who choose to go on the long way to the top of the wind farm, the cost is $45 and they must be at the Walkamin Community & Sports Club by

Participants in the Mt Emerald sunrise walk fundraising event are assured of a great time when the event kicks off on 20 August.

4.30am on 20 August. A courtesy bus will take walkers to the starting point and return them to the club after the walk where they can enjoy a barbecue and drink and fruit donated by local farms.

For the Rocky Creek walk, the cost is $40 and participants have to be at the Walkamin club by 7am where a bus will take them to the Rocky Creek igloo.

To book, go to www.trybooking.com/events/eventlist/eventListingAccount/ crimestoppers

If any members of our community are able to assist or wish to find out more information, contact Ms Maloney on 0417 541 126.

Last ditch effort to save rail trail

BY ROBYN HOLMES

THE need to preserve Atherton’s Rail Trail has reared its head again, with Tablelands Mayor Rod Marti and two other councillors attempting to halt a management plan that will explore options to allow businesses operating within the Tolga Industrial Estate to expand their properties.

Council agreed to developing the strategy at its February meeting in response to requests from landholders over the past five years to extend their properties within the Rail Trail reserve, and after a proposal to plant trees along the trail was rejected.

But when a report came to council detailing how the strategy would be developed at the end of June, Mayor Marti made an impassioned plea to councillors to stop the process.

“I can’t support this motion. I strongly urge councillors not to support this motion. This is not in our interest,” he said.

“My view is that it’s not in the community’s interests to cut up the rail trail. The rail trail belongs to every Queenslander. It should not be made available to those property owners that boundary with it by the council.

“While other councils throughout the country highly value their rail corridors for the public amenity they bring, the TRC reduces them to a potential land acquisition for a limited few.

“This is just not in the community’s interest – it doesn’t pass the community litmus test – it doesn’t pass the pub test.

“I strongly recommend to every councillor that we don’t continue on this pathway we're on.”

Cr Dave Bilney joined the Mayor in his stance.

“To be consistent with my views expressed at the council meeting in February, I do not support the project or any potential further incision of rail trail land,” he said.

“I hold the view that it’s a bit of a waste of council resources at the moment with no measurable benefit for the community in general.

“The rail trail is a community asset and one that should be protected for future generations to enjoy.”

But Deputy Mayor Cr Kevin Cardew said the matter was about more than the rail trail use, saying stormwater issues affecting the industrial estate had been left to fester under successive councils.

“The stormwater out there is horrendous – it’s been identified (as a problem) for a long time and this council, and previous councils, haven’t done a thing about it,” he said.

“It’s flooding people’s businesses - when we get a heavy rain events, water is going through

industrial sheds out there affecting people’s businesses.”

Crs David Clifton and Peter Hodge also backed the plan being developed so that businesses at the estate had certainty about whether they could expand their footprint, and the community could have a say in the use of the rail trail.

“What we do know is that the rail corridor was, in fact, an industrial zone and the forefathers of this community obviously planned to put an industrial area there adjacent to the major transport corridor of that time,” Cr Clifton said.

“So, the rail trail is not sacred community ground – it’s something we may or may not use according to our community’s wants and desires.

“The idea of this report is to give all people in our community a deliberate say about the circumstances of the rail trail should be in the future.”

Cr Bernie Wilce weighed into the debate, saying the management plan was needed to settle the matter.

“It could turn out that in September .... that it’s realised that it’s impossible to even consider the expansion of (businesses), depending on the advice or recommendations from TMR but we can’t just leave it sit hanging,” he said.

“Whether it’s to progress this project or to put it to bed, we have got to have something in front of us that gives us a strategy and a direction.”

Cr Peter Hodge said he wanted to make sure that the plan to be presented to council in September would provide all the information council and landholders needed to go forward.

“The intent of the (February) resolution was to negotiate with those landholders who have had many discussions (about expanding) and I want to make sure we are having those discussions and were in a position to say what it will cost and so on so they can take up the land,” he said.

Infrastructure general manager Mark Vis said the plan would set out to identify what uses the land should be reserved for including the existing rail trail, infrastructure such as stormwater and sewerage mains, and the potential expansion of existing industrial properties.

“Once we have got a clearer picture, we will be consulting with business owners around there to make it clear what we believe is possible and getting their feedback on that, and we would also be consulting through the Rail Trail Advisory Committee and other interested parties as well,” he said.

Council endorsed the management plan, with Crs Marti, Bilney and Haydon voting against it.

Prestigious growers award nominations now open

WHO will be the Horticultural Farmer of the Year?

Nominations for the 2023 Charlie Nastasi Horticultural Farmer of the Year are now open and locals are being encouraged to put forward worthy growers, with submissions set to close at the end of the month.

The prestigious award honours a horticultural grower who has demonstrated outstanding innovation and exceptional leadership in the Far North Queensland horticultural commodities.

The award is an initiative of peak advocacy body, FNQ Growers, and named in honour of the late Charlie Nastasi, an innovative mango grower from Biboohra, near Mareeba.

FNQ Growers president Joe Moro said nominees should address award criteria in two key areas.

“The award seeks those growers who have demonstrated outstanding innovation in horticulture through the development of new crops, new growing methods or adoption of technology to deliver efficiency improvements across the supply chain,” he said.

“The award also seeks to recognise growers who have displayed exceptional leadership.

“This can be in organisations representing their respective horticultural commodities, key advocacy groups and community groups.

“Exceptional leadership can also include a

Growing passion wins big

A GARDEN filled with lush native plants and rich home grown vegetables topped with an outdoor fire pit and cooking area has come out on top in this year’s Mareeba Rodeo Garden Competition.

For the past two years, Amanda and Andrew McCulloch have worked hard to make their garden one of a kind, taking an advantage of the rich soil in their area to grow their native plants.

The McCullochs won champion garden, best native garden and best new garden, came third in best rural residential garden and second in best front garden including footpath.

Enjoying every moment of their gardening journey and dedicating hours to maintaining its natural beauty, Amanda was shocked when she learned they had won.

“I didn’t think we would win at all,” Amanda said.

“I’ve always loved native plants and the

flowers… we love our space it is so beautiful.”

“There’s a lot of weeding and lot of care and you have to be in everyday to keep it the way it is.

Amanda encourages anyone who is considering getting serious with their garden to get involved and enter the awards, with lots of support out there for those who need it.

“You can do anything here, there’s great nurseries and many different people who know everything when it comes to gardens,” she said.

“The prizes are pretty generous thanks to the sponsors and people should definitely give it a go.

“Your garden is your person space, and I was bit humming and huhing about entering but at the end of the day, it was worth it.

“Thank you to every who entered, because without them the event wouldn’t have gone ahead.”

grower’s influence or standing in an industry – outside official duties.”

Mr Moro said the region was rich with innovative farmers, many of which were leaders in their industries.

“Past winners have been drawn from as far north as Lakeland and south to Innisfail, and across horticultural commodities, which demonstrates the strength of innovation and leadership in our region,” he said.

Nominations can be emailed to secretary@fnqgrowers.com.au and close at the end of July.

A gala growers dinner will be held in September when the 2023 winner will be announced.

Andrew and Amanda McCulloch won the best overall garden in this year’s garden competition.

2021 Charlie Nastasi Horticultural Farmer of the Year, Raymond Courtice.

Survey reveals students feel unsafe

STUDENTS across the Tablelands are afraid of attending school as annual reports reveal that under 50 per cent of students at some schools feel unsafe attending their place of learning.

Results gathered from the annual reports of Mareeba State High School, Atherton State High School and Malanda State High School have revealed a major drop in the school opinion surveys for parents, staff and students. Since 2019, results have been dropping at rates of up to 30 per cent.

Each year, the Department of Education conducts the survey to obtain the opinions of parents/ caregivers, students and school staff about important aspects of schooling.

The questions range from ‘I feel safe at my school to ‘my school gives me opportunities to do interesting things’ while parents and caregivers are asked similar questions like ‘my child likes

being at this school’ and ‘this school takes parents’ opinions seriously.”

The Express asked specific questions to each school addressing the concerning survey results including “Is the school concerned with these considerable drops in the survey? What is the school doing, if anything, to rectify these concerns and issues?” – the schools failed to provide adequate answers.

Across the board, survey results for all three schools have dropped considerably, some to below 50 percent.

At Malanda in particular, the answers for the parents/caregivers survey have not decreased, they have either remained the same or increased while the results for the student survey have dropped.

At Mareeba in 2019, 78.9 per cent of students felt they were safe at school, in 2022 it dropped to

Nomads descend to celebrate

HUNDREDS of travellers will be heading north over the next few weeks for one of the biggest events on the grey nomad calendar, Christmas in July.

Being hosted by the Far North Nomads and the Campervan and Motorhome Club of Australia (CMCA), the event will go from 27-30 July at Davies Park Mareeba with events and activities for CMCA members and Mareeba locals.

This year is the event’s silver jubilee and coordinators Maureen and Des Lane are promising a program stacked with entertainment.

It’s the first year since 2019 that no Covid travel restrictions have been in place for the nomads, with Maureen hoping this will allow travellers from as far as Tasmania and Western Australia to Mareeba.

“We are hoping to have around 220 to 250 vehicles, meaning caravans as well as motorhomes,” Maureen said.

“It’s a big year and we are pretty excited. It’s good for Mareeba and it keeps people around here for longer spending their money and sightseeing.”

“The last few years the Tasmanians and the Western Australians have been down so hopefully we will see a few of them up here again.”

To kick off the festivities, there will be a morning tea on Thursday 27 July followed by an information talk by Queensland Police at 12.30pm.

Activities such as line dancing and ukelele groups will go into the afternoon until 4pm Happy Hour, where friends and family can visit in the ground for the afternoon.

The official opening will then kick off at 7pm.

On Friday, nomads can get a fresh haircut from local hairdressers from 8am to 12pm with more activities throughout the morning.

A talk by Queensland Health, Ambulance and Fire and Rescue will be happening from 9am, followed by a talk from Centrelink.

The notorious pet parade will see colourful pooches from all over Australia come together to compete for the title of best pet from 9am.

At 4pm, the nomads will turn jockeys for the hobby horse race with fashions of the field and gold coin betting to take place for the evening.

60 per cent.

From the same question, Malanda went from 92.5 percent in 2019 to 77.1 per cent in 2022 and Atherton recorded the biggest drop, going from 80.4 to 56 per cent.

Student behaviour at all schools declined rapidly with Mareeba going from an already low 48.4 to 38.1 per cent in 2021, it has since recovered and is at 47.3 per cent.

Atherton dropped over 20 per cent from 46.9 to 23.5 per cent while Malanda once again recorded the largest drop going from 85 to 66.7 per cent.

Atherton’s statistics are not only some of the most shocking, but as Atherton is also the largest and most populated school on the Tablelands.

The changes in the student survey are also reflected in the staff survey which all three schools also recorded a drop in student behaviour.

Malanda State High School principal Gary Tochach said the survey results reflect the difficult times school’s experienced when attempting to educate during Covid.

“The opinion survey data reflects the challenges we navigated during the pandemic, with home schooling, school closures and the other unprecedented events we faced as a community at the time,” he said.

School suspensions, exclusions and cancellations have dropped for Mareeba and Atherton while Malanda recorded nearly double the number of incidents in 2022 compared to 2019, going from 45 to 70.

Despite not being the largest school in the area, Mareeba holds the mantle for most school suspensions, exclusions and cancellations with 240 recorded in 2021, 40 less than 2020.

On Sunday, the event will finish with a traditional Christmas meal by the Mareeba Leagues Club and a hat decorating competition.

An open day will also take place on Sunday, with members of the public encouraged to come along and see the “sweet life”.

Entry on the open day is a gold coin donation, with all proceeds going to the Mayor’s Christmas Appeal and the local SES.

“People from all over Australia know Christmas in July in Mareeba so hopefully they will all come along,” Maureen said.

2/64

By scanning the QR CODE, you can view detailed information about the menu and other specifics.

Please note, seating availability for the above events is limited. To avoid disappointment, please make your reservations through each restaurant's booking system or contact them by phone.

Far North Nomads and Christmas in July coordinators Maureen and Des Lane are inviting nomads and locals to come along for Christmas in July.

Step forward for stroke treatment

BY ELLIE FINK

MILLIONS of Queenslanders living in remote and rural areas will now having access to life-saving stroke diagnosis and treatment, with the State Government giving $5.8 million to a virtual Telestroke service.

Telestroke provides rapid virtual care for people to access a specialist stroke diagnosis and treatment, particularly in rural and regional areas.

After several years of Queensland stroke organisations, charities and medical professionals calling on the State to implement the service, their voices have finally been heard.

Moyamoya Australia founder and Ravenshoe local Nicola Baker has been advocating for the cause for a long time now and her goal was to have the important service rolled out entirely by Christmas.

Emailing every politician in Queensland, Ms Baker went beyond the limits to ensure Telestroke was recognised in Parliament and last week, her goal was realised.

“It started over a conversation amongst our Lived Experience Advisory Panel for Childhood Stroke, and we thought we would get Telestroke in place by Christmas and here we are – Christmas in July,” she said.

“It’s just a such a good outcome and to know this service is there to help people in regional and remote Queensland as well as in the cities is invaluable. It’s going to save lives.”

For Ms Baker, this service will greatly benefit people like her son Jed, who has moyamoya disease and is at risk of stroking at any time.

“The longer it takes to get treatment, the more damage the person is at risk of having and strokes kill people so if we can save lives by having access to this service, then it’s just a gift,” she said.

“For someone like me who lives 45 minutes away from the nearest hospital, it means we can access stroke specialists and moyamoya specialist through a phone number.

“Time is crucial for someone having a stroke so the faster someone can get advice, the better.”

Responding to Ms Baker’s email, Member for Hill Shane Knuth raised this issue in Parliament a number of times and has questioned the previous and present Minister about Queensland’s need for a Telestroke service.

He described the roll out “as fantastic” and sait it will save lives.

“This is a win-win, not only for all Queenslanders but for rural and regional residents who are disadvantaged in the distances they have to travel for basic medical services,” he said.

“This roll out will save lives and help prevent long-term impairments from the effects of stroke.

“I would like to thank the Minister for Health, the Moyamoya Foundation and all those that lobbied in getting this over the line.”

Queensland Health will develop the virtual Telestroke service, which will be available for patients in 2024.

A POLICY that ensures driveways and crossovers to private properties are made good after roadworks has been endorsed by Tablelands Regional Council.

Deputy Mayor Cr Kevin Cardew raised the matter with council in January, saying he had been contacted by a number of property owners who had been left unable to properly access their land after roadworks were undertaken by the council.

At the time, Cr Cardew said he was aware of at least three incidents where residents had complained they could no longer access their property after works were done by council.

At its recent meeting, council endorsed a new policy that guarantees that any driveway or crossover that is impacted by council works will be restored or re-constructed to ensure the existing level of access to the property is maintained at the competition of the work.

A suitably qualified council officer will be charged with determining whether the driveway crossover has been diminished, worsened or adversely affected by the works.

A report to council stated that the policy may actually benefit some property owners.

“It may provide additional benefit to private property owners who don’t have a permitted and compliant driveway crossover, which at the time of road and roadside drainage works requires upgrading by TRC to maintain safe vehicle access, as they will receive a compliant driveway crossover at the expense of the general ratepayers of the TRC local government area,” it stated.

Performers, stallholders sought for annual festival

NEXT month, the Mareeba Multicultural Festival will be back bigger and better than ever but organisers want performers and stallholders to come forward now.

Celebrating multiculturalism since 1999, the festival will celebrate its 25th anniversary year this year on 26 August when it kicks off in Arnold Park, Mareeba. The festival features non-stop entertainment and incredible food stalls.

Organisers want to hear from potential performers and anyone who wishes to host a stall for the event.

Application forms are available at: www.mareebamulticulturalfestival.com.au and close on 21 July.

The Mareeba Multicultural Festival is supported by the Mareeba Shire Council and the Queensland Government.

Member for Hill Shane Knuth and Moyamoya Australia founder and stroke advocate Nicola Baker were just two of the driving forces to bring Telestroke to Queensland.

Big clean-up for cape boat ramp

Juunjuwarra Traditional Owners have been working to protect the littoral rainforest areas and beach following surveys conducted at the site late last year.

A POPULAR boating spot on the Starcke River has been the target of an intensive clean-up after years of visitor over-use, weed infestation and damage from feral cattle.

Juunjuwarra Traditional Owners have been working to protect the littoral rainforest areas and beach following surveys conducted at the site of the boat ramp late last year.

Cape York NRM provided training for the Juunjuwara Rangers in littoral rainforest research, and teams then conducted surveys to establish the health of the coastal vegetation. The results found some former littoral rainforest stands were in low condition and the area was overrun with rubbish, weeds and feral animal damage.

“Littoral Rainforest is an important part of beach sustainability,” Cape York NRM Biodiversity project officer Dr James Dobson said.

“A littoral rainforest provides a buffer between the ocean and the land and helps prevent coastal erosion and wind damage and provides habitat for more than 70 threatened plants and animals.”

The littoral rainforest and coastal vine thickets of eastern Australia are listed as critically endangered under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999.

“If we want to maintain the beach and coastal area into the future, steps have to be taken to prevent further deterioration,” James said.

The Juunjuwarra Rangers are keen to get their country returned to its former glory. It takes in the Starcke River catchment in north-eastern Cape York and is home to mountains and remote rainforests, extensive mangrove and seagrass ecosystems, offshore reefs and islands, and the largest dugong population on the east coast of Australia.

In May, a ranger team sprayed woody weeds (mostly sicklepod and hyptis) around the littoral rainforest patch, boat ramp and roadsides. A second team scouted for suitable areas for camping to alleviate pressures on the coastal vegetation around the ramp.

“This is a popular spot, but it has been free rein for many years, so there are a lot of tracks and litter throughout the area,” James said.

“New campsites have also been established, the beach area has been cleaned up and about 2km of fencing is being installed to prevent vehicle and cattle access to the beachfront.

“The rangers have also installed signage for visitors to explain the changes and how individuals can respect the area and keep it clean.”

New app to be created for nature trail

A POPULAR nature trail at Kuranda is one of 42 projects to get funding from the State as part of a program aimed at improving green spaces to enable the public to better enjoy them.

Kuranda Envirocare Inc will receive $24,605 to build upon the success of the Kuranda Village nature trail by developing a trail app, installing strategically placed cigarette bollards, undertaking weed control, and planting native trees to deliver positive environmental outcomes and improve community engagement.

Under the government’s Community Sustainability Action grant program Grants of up to $50,000 were available to establish or expand community gardens, install composting and recycling infrastructure at community facilities or rehabilitate local green spaces.

The groups will share in $900,000 in funding through the to help them repurpose neglected spaces into areas where the community can grow their own produce or create thriving ecosystems.

Minister for Environment and Science

Leanne Linard said the funding round had attracted numerous applications.

“We received an overwhelming number of applications to this funding round which shows just how passionate Queenslanders are about creating more green spaces, growing their own produce, and making a positive impact on the environment,” she said.

“Community gardens, in particular, are becoming more and more popular as people recognise the benefits they offer.

“These projects will not only transform forgotten spaces into vibrant green havens, but they will also provide important opportunities for communities to work together to provide fresh food and nutritious food for those in need, minimise food waste and create or improve vital habitat for their local native species.

“These grants build on the Palaszczuk Government’s long-term vision for Queensland to become a zero-waste society, as well as our commitment to invest in projects that will protect and improve our unique biodiversity and ecosystems.”

Survey to gauge business conditions

MAREEBA businesses are being encouraged to complete a quarterly survey of business conditions to help industry get a better understanding on business performance.

Business Chamber Queensland’s Pulse Survey for March 2023 revealed decreased demand and economic activity attributed to inflation and interest rates resulted in a decline in business performance.

Mareeba Chamber of Commerce president Joe Moro said it was vital that Mareeba businesses contributed to the quarterly survey.

“While the Far North region is largely in line with the rest of the state, the March quarter results

listed insurance premium costs as the top constraint for business growth,” he said.

“While retaining and recruiting employees had improved, it still remains among the top five constraints for business growth in the region, together with direct wage costs and interest rates.

“Businesses across all levels – small to large –are feeling the pain of increased costs.”

The Pulse Survey measures business confidence and expectations. The June 2023 Survey closes at 5pm on 25 July.

The survey can be completed by going to www.businesschamberqld.com.au and clicking on Advocacy and then Pulse Survey.

Choose between one of the following walks:

Walk 1 - Sunrise walk to the Mt Emerald Wind Farm. This is a moderate to hard 14 kilometre round trip with magical views of the Tablelands. Each walker must wear their own head light as the walk will commence in the dark, wear a supplied hard hat and agree to a waiver.

Walk 2 - This is a relatively easy walk on a flat wide track from the Rocky Creek Igloo back to Walkamin along the Rail Trail. Approx 8 kilometres.

Reef Stonehouse (Stoney), Kaley Bow, Amy O Sullivan, Madelynn Hansen, Caitlin Hampton and Darby Bowditch. Guy Edmondson and Alex Welch. Claire Strahan having fun in the sideshow alley.

Jemma Dowling, Sallie Pilgrim, Sarah Ralston, Lucy Goodsell and Lacey Wilcox. Jason and his dad Glenn Shopland.

Zoe Turner, Heath Okeeffe, Sunny and Cooper Holman.

Jaimie Downing, Shauna Glennan and Anna Winsper. Kaydee Kohler, Chloe Fink, Raychelle Srhoj and Madi Martin.

Jackson Scrivener, Dane Reis, Mia McNeill, Eden Grace and Rachel Brown.

Alyssa Tatti and Alicia Micklewright.

Eden Grace and Jaclyn France.

Kids enjoying sideshow alley rides.

ENTERTAINMENT

Get your Latin dance on

PAESANO'S and Latin Dance Tablelands have joined forces to bring an exciting Latin social night to the Atherton International Club this July.

The event features a 30-minute salsa class, socializing, dancing, captivating performances, a canepe buffet, and Sangria for early-comers.

No partner is required, and all age groups are welcome. RSVP necessary for catering purposes. Book tickets online or email info@latindancetablelands. com.au.

For more information and tickets, visit www.latindancetablelands.com.au/event-details-registration/ latin-social-night or email info@latindancetablelands. com.au

Race day fun

ALL the fun of the races will be back at Morrow Park, Tolga this Saturday, with a five-race card to keep punters entertained.

The Barron Valley and Bundy Rum race day will be held at the Atherton Turf Club from 11am on Saturday.

All the usual highlights including fashions on the field and live entertainment will be on offer for patrons as well as full TAB facilities and local bookies to have a punt.

MALANDA THEATRE CO presents: HOW THE OTHER HALF LOVES

A great comedy by Alan Ayckbourn

Directed by Graham Harrington & Penny Scott

August 18, 19, 20 25, 26, 27 (Sunday matinee)

$20 Opening night, $25 other nights

Performers from the 2022 festival.

Get ready for a rockin’ good Chillagoe Festival

A TALENTED pool of musicians are ready to entertain crowds at this weekend’s Chillagoe Festival, which will be full of great live entertainment and lots of fun for the family.

All the fun of the festival kicks off at 8am on Saturday and goes through until 10pm, with a great line-up of performers.

The Chillagoe Festival is a celebration of the outback culture and heritage of the town – a great opportunity to experience the warm hospitality of the locals, who will welcome you with open arms and a smile.

Highly-acclaimed local and national artists, such as Becci Nethery, Penny Burdell, Brendon Wright, Now or Never, Chrissy Snell, and

Moonlighlighting will be giving their best performances of all kinds of music genre, from country to rock.

The festival starts at 8am, with markets as well as photo and artwork exhibitions by local artists who will display their talents in the Chillagoe Town Hall. The artworks feature the unique landscape and lifestyle of the outback.

Don’t miss the street parade from 11am to 12 noon, and then sit back and enjoy the musical performances while enjoying some of the food and drinks on offer.

The Chillagoe Festival is free for everyone to attend. Don’t miss the opportunity to have a blast in the outback and support the local community.

New comedy show to keep you laughing all the way home

A COMEDY that will have audiences laughing in the aisles is Malanda Theatre Company’s new show which starts next month.

The theatre is well into rehearsals for “How the Other Half Loves”, another fun comedy by Alan Ayckbourn, rollicking along with crazy shenanigans, which mirror real life, more than most of us would care to admit.

Graham Harrington, whose directing and acting career has spanned more than 60 years acting and directing in over 40 productions, has teamed up with newly-minted director Penny Scott, who audiences might remember was seated at the piano, playing for a whole bunch of “naked” Calendar Girls.

Graham has a very strong connection with this play, starring as Frank in two previous productions of “How the Other Half Loves”. The first was in Deniliquin in 1978, opposite his wife Gill as Fiona, and here on the Tablelands with Atherton Performing Arts in 1989.

The complexity of this play incorporates two houses on stage at the same time, with overlapping action between three couples.

Graham has gathered an outstanding cast of experienced actors - Howard Smith plays Frank Foster opposite Deb Bass as Fiona his wife.

Kaitlen Adams and Tim Wright are the Phillips, and Jocelyn Goodwin, and Jake Skukan are the Featherstones,

who unwittingly become embroiled in the other two couple’s shenanigans.

For Graham, working with Penny Scott to direct the play is a lovely reminder of theatre experiences of the past and a reassurance that, with the new talent coming through, theatre is alive and well at the Majestic.

To read more of Graham’s rich and inspiring theatrical story, visit the theatre’s website. Don’t miss this new fun play, with tickets on sale now through www.malandatheatre.org or at Tableland Books at Atherton.

“How the Other Half Loves” will be performed on 18-20 and 25-27 August.

THERE is great action and excitement on Malanda’s Majestic big screen with two significant current movies that you don’t want to miss.

The new action-adventure “Indiana Jones and the Dial Of Destiny” starring Harrison Ford, Antony Banderas and Karen Allen, starts its Malanda run this weekend.

The Tom Cruise action-adventure thriller “Mission Impossible: Dead Reckoning Part One” continues and is excellent all action entertainment.

For all session times, go to www.majestictheatre. com.au

A blast from the past… Graham and Gill Harrington playing Frank and Fiona Foster in “How the Other Half Loves” in 1978.

INSET: Howard Smith and Deb Bass as the Fosters in the 2023 production of “How the Other Half Loves”.

Keeping the house clean with pets

WE all love our pets and they bring a lot of joy to our families but when it comes to keeping your home clean, they can be challenging.

These days, most animal owners are allowing their pets to live inside but that can create issues in keeping the family home clean, tidy and smelling nice.

There are ways to make your life a bit easier living with pets and we have compiled the best tips for you to deal with the situation.

▪ Make sure you give your pets a bath regularly and brush them to remove excess hair. Dirty dogs and cats not only leave dirt in your home but they can also smell. Your pets should have a bath every few weeks and be brushed weekly. Try to use a nice shampoo so your home doesn’t smell like “damp dog” and dry them off as much as possible. A good brush after baths is recommended.

▪ Buy a great vacuum cleaner. When it comes to hairy pets, you will need a vacuum cleaner with extra strong suction and a quality filter so that you are picking up the hair

imbedded in carpets and rugs. Some pet owners are opting for an automatic vacuum cleaner that will constantly pick up items on the floor but be aware, some pets see them as playthings.

▪ Think about your floor coverings and furniture. If you have hairy animals, carpets and rugs can be problematic, so it might be a good idea to opt for new flooring options like vinyl planks (that look like timber floors), or tiles. As far as your furniture goes, try to choose a lounge suite that doesn’t have upholstery that will serve as a magnet for hair but there are some great lint rollers out there that work wonderfully. Also, think about colours – you don’t want to get a white lounge if your pets like to jump on it after they come inside.

▪ Have products like spot cleaners and sprays on hand to be able to clean up “accidents". There are a number of products available at supermarkets that will not only clean up the mess but also remove any lingering

odours. React immediately to stains and accidents or they will become difficult to remove.

▪ Treat your pets for fleas and ticks. No one wants an infestation in their home and there are a wide variety of products on the market that will keep fleas and ticks at bay. Ask your veterinarian if you’re not sure which one to use.

▪ Manage their eating and drinking area. Dogs, in particular, can spray their drinking water all over the place or knock over water

bowls, so it’s best to create a specific area for them. Try placing a larger rubber mat under the bowls so it can capture some of the spills or dribble. Clean your water and food bowls regularly.

▪ Buy a pet bed that’s easy to clean. There are so many beds on the market now, and while you may be tempted to buy the fluffy soft one, you will most likely be better off with one that’s easy to keep clean and wipe over.

2 carrots, halved and sliced

½ cup fresh green beans, sliced 400g can diced tomatoes, reduced salt

Mouth watering winter recipes LAMB CASSEROLE

This hearty casserole is perfect for cold winter nights. Packed full of an assortment of vegetables, one portion of this dish will provide you with over half of your recommended serves of vegetables for the day. Serve with a good quality carbohydrate such as wholemeal pasta for an extra hit of fibre.

This recipe is courtesy of the Queensland Country Women’s Association’s Country Kitchens team.

INGREDIENTS

Serves: 4

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

500g lean diced lamb

1 onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, crushed

4 celery stalks, sliced

MINESTRONE SOUP

This classic minestrone soup recipe is packed full of veg and makes for the perfect winter warmer! It is great for using up leftovers in your fridge and pantry.

Supplied by the Queensland Country Women’s Association Country Kitchens team.

INGREDIENTS

2 medium brown onions

2 carrots

3 celery stalks

¼ butternut pumpkin

3 cloves garlic, crushed

2 teaspoons smoked paprika

Olive oil, to drizzle

2L vegetable stock, salt reduced

400g can crushed tomatoes

400g can borlotti beans, drained and rinsed

300g dried pasta

200g frozen spinach

200g peas OR broad beans, frozen

Cracked black pepper

Parmesan, grated (to serve)

Croutons (optional):

½ loaf ciabatta or stale bread

Pepper, to taste

Parmesan, grated

Extra virgin olive oil

2 cups chicken stock, reduced salt

1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped

Pepper

METHOD

Heat oil in a large saucepan on medium heat and cook lamb until sealed and golden (about 5-7 minutes). Add onion, garlic, celery, carrot and beans and cook for a further 3-4 minutes. Add tomatoes, stock, vinegar, rosemary, pepper and cover to simmer on low for 90 minutes, stirring occasionally or cook in an oven-proof dish at 160°C for the same amount of time. Serve with brown rice or wholemeal pasta.

METHOD

Dice the onions, carrots, celery and pumpkin into 1cm pieces and place into soup pot. Add garlic, paprika and a drizzle of olive oil. Fry over medium heat for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add vegetable stock, tomatoes and beans. Bring to the boil and then simmer for 15 minutes.

Add frozen spinach, peas and pasta and simmer for a further 15 minutes until the pasta is cooked. Serve with cracked pepper, grated parmesan and crusty croutons.

Croutons (optional):

Preheat oven to 180°C. Tear bread into chunks and top with pepper, parmesan and a drizzle of olive oil. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden and crispy.

There are plenty of products to help you keep your house clean and furniture free of fur now our pets are living with us.

ON LANDthe

Ag sector booming

QUEENSLAND’S agriculture and fisheries sector has broken another record valuation of $23.44 billion, according to the latest AgTrends data released last week.

The new high for the 2022-23 financial year eclipses the previous record of $23.37 billion in 2021-22, and follows continued strong investment in agriculture by the State Government.

Among the strongest growing commodities were Queensland’s world-class fresh produce, with apples, table grapes, pineapples, avocados, and bananas all in the top 10 for growth.

Beef remains king of the commodities in the State, with cattle and calves valued at over $6 billion in 2022-23, and meat processing estimated to be worth almost $2.8 billion.

Sugarcane and sugar processing reached a combined valuation of almost $2.5 billion, while the Gross Value Production (GVP) of raw cotton soared 26.4 per cent to over $1.5 billion.

The best performing commodities and Local Government areas for both size and fastest growth of GVP in Queensland were also revealed.

Toowoomba took out top spot for the largest GVP in the land, valued at almost $1.36 billion, and was also in the top 10 for growth, ranking sixth with a GVP increase of almost 5.8 per cent.

The Cairns region, which takes in the Tablelands and Mareeba Shire, was ninth on the Top 10 growth list, increasing its GVP by 4.33 per cent

By far, the fastest growing region was

the Lockyer Valley, the value of its ag sector surging, up nearly 42 per cent on last year’s GVP off the back of strong recovery from the 2022 floods.

Bundaberg was also a major success story, with the region coming in third for GVP ($837 million) and second for growth of GVP, up 10.1 per cent.

Minister for Agricultural Industry Development and Fisheries and Minister for Rural Communities Mark Furner said the State’s produce was world class.

“So, it’s no surprise our State’s ag sector is breaking records,” he said.

“Despite challenges presented by Covid and floods, our agribusinesses continue to go

from strength to strength.

“The Palaszczuk Government’s strong support of Queensland’s primary producers continues through investment in research and development, disaster preparedness, AgTech, and strong biosecurity protections.

“We’re continuing to create jobs and back primary producers with sound investments through our Rural Economic Development Grants, which have supported about 2,500 jobs and provided about $12 million to our primary producers.”

The latest Queensland AgTrends data is available at:https://www.daf.qld.gov.au/ news-media/campaigns/data-farm/primaryindustries





family farmers have just top-dressed their maize crop with an eco-friendly coated urea blend that is designed to promote efficient plant nitrogen uptake and reduce the risk

Avocadoes were amongst the strongest growing commodities in the 2022-23 financial year.

ON LANDthe

Event showcases

BY BRIGITTE DALEY

STRONG exhibitor participation and attendance numbers made this year’s Atherton Show an outstanding success.

Atherton Tableland Agricultural Society president Alan Dowling said this year’s Ather-

ton Show was one of the best shows to date with great entry numbers across all sections.

“The showcasing of the Tablelands’ agriculture and talent was evident throughout,” he said.

“Along with our poultry pavilion, our main pavilion was impressive with the variety of agriculture, floriculture, and the creativity on display.

“The stud beef numbers at this year’s show were well and truly up on recent years.

“The students from our local secondary schools made their teachers and families proud in how they presented themselves with their cattle.

“Our next generation is looking good. Atherton, Malanda and Ravenshoe High had great entries across a number of sections.

“The effort made for the fancy dress with the goats from Atherton High deserves a special mention.

“I was particularly delighted with the number of competitors we had in our horse events and their friendly cooperation and respectful competition.”

Never failing to delight, this year’s goat section was no exception with four different breeds including miniature breeds, being exhibited by the Atherton State High School (ASHS).

Breeds in this year’s school show team included Saanen, Nigerian dwarf, some Nigerian dwarf cross animals, Australian Miniatures and Boer goats.

ASHS agriculture teacher Tracey Fitzgerald said the school commenced showing goats in 2006 after it established its goat club.

“It is a great way to introduce students, particularly younger ones, to livestock,” she said.

“This year there were 17 students in the school goat show team.”

ASHS student Bella Poulos said this was her first show exhibiting goats for the school.

“It is fun to show goats for the school,” she said.

“They are really great animals to work with.”

Stud Beef co-chief steward Louise Garard said that Tropical, European and British breeds as well as the ever-popular small breeds were out in full force for the Stud Beef judging of the2023 Atherton Show.

“A major highlight for all the stewards was to see the cattle sheds full again, we couldn't remember the last time we had seen the shed so full and it was great to see all the extra hard work we put in this year had paid off.

Kellie Williams continued her winning streak after being awarded top honours, taking out

both Supreme Champion Stud Beef Bull Overall with Kel-lee A Boxer and Supreme Champion Stud Beef Female Overall with Kel-lee A Dolly.

Judge Paul Laycock from High Country Droughtmasters in Esk, Southern Queensland said this year’s Supreme Champion Stud Beef Bull Overall had all the right attributes and had great character, as well as great length and depth throughout the flank.

“He met every criteria for the industry and will be a great sire,” Mr Laycock said.

“All the cattle that I judged here today had a real commercial industry relevance.

“I was very pleased to see that over a wide spectrum of breeds.

“The enthusiasm of exhibitors and students need to be commended.”

Champion Led Steer was Maple Downs T-Bone shown by the Kidd Family from Maple Downs Murray Greys with Champion Led Heifer being Sarsaparilla shown by Darcy Small.

Champion Junior Beef Parader was Sascha Micola with the Junior Encouragement Award going to Brianna Penellum.

The overall winners of the Young Beef Judges competition were Jack Zappala and Darcy Small, with Darcy going on to represent the Atherton Show at

Atherton State High School goat show team members with judge Cicelia Riddler. (from left) Shelby Hamilton, Yana Butler, Bella Poulos, Elke Edwards, Caitlin Channells, Madeleine Scrivens, Leah Withers with twin goats Yin (left) and Yang (right) which are opposite in colour to each other.

Supreme Champion Hack of Show and Champion Galloway Hack was Hollywood Hot Gossip ridden by Michelle Machan. Pictured presenting the award is judge Margot Warnett.

ON LANDthe

region’s ag sector

ATHERTON SHOW WRAP 2023

Tully Sub Chamber Finals.

Atherton Tableland Poultry Club member Trenton Stonehouse said this year’s show entries filled the poultry pavilion to full capacity.

“Some breeders could not show this year but it was still ‘full house’ in the poultry pavilion with over 400 birds exhibited,” Mr Stonehouse said.

“Some exhibitors came as far away as from Richmond.

“There were a handful of rare breeds that are now starting to become more popular at the Atherton Show.”

This year saw over 30 breeds exhibited with keen interest being shown by Juniors.

This year’s judge was Noel James from Kingaroy

“A highlight of this year’s poultry judging was that the judge gifted his judging stick to the champion junior exhibitor

to acknowledge that he was doing a great job in the breeding, preparation and showing of his birds,” he said.

The Grand Champion Bird of the 2023 Atherton Show was a Bantam Old English Game Wheaten cock exhibited by the Stonehouse family.

Competitors travelled from as far south as Townville and even further to compete in the equestrian events at the Atherton Show.

Horse chief Steward Julie Shuttleworth said overall there were good numbers across the jumping and the horse ring events with the majority of the riders coming from the local Far North area.

“In the horse ring our Led or Halter classes attracted great interest and were followed by rider classes. Monday concluded with sporting events,” Ms Shut-

tleworth said.

“Tuesday saw the Hack program start with ponies then galloways followed by the larger hacks.

“The jump ring started with a junior 80cm jump and one of the highlights of this year’s equestrian events was the junior and senior 6 bar jump off on the Monday night.

“This has always provided spectators with a good show of local jumping.

“Tuesday saw our championship jumps culminating in the Queensland Rural Pty Ltd Championship which allows riders to collect jump points over four shows - Innisfail, Atherton, Malanda and Cairns

“This event was spectacular to watch and was well supported by our jumpers.”

Mareeba Salesyards summary – 11 July 2023

top of 288.2c/kg

▪ 3+3 cows and calves @ $1150

2+2 Cows and calves @ $620

Champion Junior Beef Parader Sascha Micola with Monatna Hayden-Stephen, Benny Kidd and Debbie Kidd of Maple Downs.

The Supreme Champion Stud Beef Bull of the 2023 Atherton Show was Kel-lee A Boxer exhibited by Kellie Williams (second from right), Kel-lee A Droughtmasters, pictured with 2023 North Queensland Chamber Show Girl Jesse Gough, Atherton Show Girl Taylah Dalgety, North Queensland Rural Ambassador Rikki Payne and judge Paul Laycock.

LETTERSto the editor

New legislation threatens to shut down the other side

THE creepy-weird ALP-LNP twins are the master purveyors of misinformation and disinformation in Australia today. They spread misinformation and disinformation on all the public narratives. Here’s some examples.

Climate: “CO2 traps heat”; “infrared backradiation heats the oceans”; “kids won’t know snow”; “what rain falls won’t fill our dams”; “cyclones will be more frequent and more intense”; “seas will rise two metres by 2010”; “bushfires are caused by climate change”; “China is a developing nation” – all false.

Energy: “renewable energy is cheaper”; “renewables are good for the environment”; “renewables can supply baseload power”; “oil and gas are made of fossils”; “CO2 and H2O from burning coal is bad for the environment” – all incorrect.

Covid: “ivermectin is for horses”; “natural immunity doesn’t work against Covid”; “the vaccine will stop the spread”; the vaccine will prevent hospitalisation and death”; “papers and cloth masks stop viruses”; “lockdowns reduce deaths”; “social distancing prevents transmission”; “Covid wasn’t from a lab leak” – all entirely fallacious.

Gender: “men can become women”; “some people are born in the wrong body”; “removing a child’s genitalia is gender-affirming care” – all evilly wrong.

Despite this hideous history of ridiculous wrongology, the Federal Government now fancies itself as the arbiter of truth and intends to pass the “Communications Legislation Amendment (Combatting Misinformation and Disinformation) Bill 2023”.

This legislation will make it illegal for you to dispute any of their ridiculous globalist claims. The Australian Communication and Media Authority will have powers that would make George Orwell’s Ministry of Truth blush.

Throughout history, those who would censor the speech of others have never been the good guys. Every tyrannical dictatorship has begun by banning free speech, because free speech is the human right that underpins all other human rights.

Australia has always been controlled by the an-

cient globalist families, which is why we weren’t allowed to have the Bill of Rights America’s founding fathers gifted their nation.

The only right we do have was implied from our Constitution by the High Court in 1992 – the right to freedom of communication on political matters. But the globalist ALP-LNP twins want to crush that, too.

You have a window of opportunity to object to this draconian legislation, lodge a submission here – www.infrastructure.gov.au/have-your-say/ new-acma-powers-combat-misinformation-anddisinformation. That window closes on 6 August.

Peter Campion TOLGA

Council should step up to the plate on housing crisis

SINCE May last year, I have made aware of the seriousness of the homelessness problem faced by Atherton on a daily basis.

I took the issue to a group I was a part of, with good intentions. I have since left the group taking it upon myself to hand out tea and coffee in the mornings to the homeless.

I wrote two letters to Tablelands Regional Council - one in July and the second in September last year - to try and get something going to address the problem of affordable and social housing and was basically told “we are working with providers to come up with a solution”.

It has been a year and nothing has yet been done. I feel it’s council’s responsibility to pick up where the State and Federal governments have fallen short.

Then community has a responsibility to call to order their representatives for their inaction.

I have seen children as young as 12 to chronic alcoholics visit the park for various reasons. Helping in whatever way where I can.

The homeless situation doesn’t seem to be a priority for the TRC – developing the section of the rail trail behind the main street to the IGA carpark is getting more attention.

The social housing waiting list is exasperated to me by the age cap of 55. Being from New South Wales and having lived in public and social hous-

ing before moving to Queensland, I have never experienced an age cap.

The lack of action by council and the limitations of community organisations, I feel, is leading to an increase in crime, addiction and alcoholism.

Where does this stop? The community is living with raised alertness.

Action leads to solutions, and results are around the corner - it just feels they are out of reach for the elected.

Gregory Harkness ATHERTON

What damage did the vaccines do?

WHAT percentage of people are harmed by the mRNA jabs?

According to Dr Peter McCullough MD, MPH, a highly published and renown heart surgeon in U.S, during his recent testimony in the Pennsylvania Senate, there are three risk groups of vaccination batches according to a peer-reviewed Danish study:

1. Approximately 1/3 have resulted in no injuries so far

2. Approximately 2/3 had moderate side-effects

3. 4.2 per cent had severe side-effects.

Side-effects occur in four domains of injury –cardiovascular, neurologic, thrombotic and immunologic. You can find out your batch number and go to howbadismybatch.com if you are concerned.

In the U.S, 94 per cent of the population have had at least one mRNA shot. A Zogby survey last U.S summer suggests at least 15 per cent of Americans have a disability or injury from the jab while Vsafe data (self reported) showed 7.7 had to get emergency care. This is consistent, he says, with Yellow Card (U.K.) and the Eudra system data.

Despite McCullough and many others, including The World Council for Health, raising concerns about safety since March 2021 with every U.S. government agency, including regulatory agencies, there was no response or change in stance.

McCullough estimates that less than five per cent of the jabbed have permanent or severe injuries.

When looking for treatments for one of the most common injuries, myocarditis, the Japanese have “convincing” studies that Nattokinase (a bacterial breakdown of soy) can dissolve spike protein. Other potential natural treatments include curcumin, and NAC but recognition of injuries and funding is needed to find solutions.

McCullough also said that mRNA and spike proteins probably last for months, if not years, in the human body but many patients’ syndromes do seem to dissolve slowly over time.

Lynette Hunter YUNGABURRA

Thanks Elon for looking after your subscribers

TELSTRA’S foray into the service it should be capable of providing will end where it always does. Drowned in corporate greed.

Elon did a special deal for rural Australia ($229) and we did an easy install of residential Starlink in April. No down time. No buffering. Instant internet.

The current download of 190.87mbps and upload 5.76 mbps is okay for us. Starlink supplies an ethernet adapter and additional mesh nodes are available if required. We have 16 wi-fi devices across the house using our router.

Be aware that Starlink requires a clear and unobstructed view of the sky. Currently, more users can slow the service and Starlink makes allowances by slowing sales in relevant areas to continue quality service.

Telstra is interested in subscribers, not customers.

Our “Spacey” is great. Even has a snow melt feature, and on State of Origin night, we came across a guy camped in a tent with a RV Starlink attached to his truck.

Difficult to see what value Telstra can add. It is plug and play with a phone app. If people need help with installation, it could be an excellent niche for an agile person with a bit of tech knowledge. And odds are, Starlink support is not an Indian named Bob.

Cheryl Ison MAREEBA

Take responsibility for your noise

NOISE complaints can happen at any time of the day or night and is one of the more common calls for service for police.

We all want to be able to enjoy our time at home. For some of us, this may include activities that cause unwanted noise for our neighbours, resulting in a noise complaint.

As a homeowner or tenant, you need to be responsible for all noise levels at your residence. People may feel that noise levels are excessive at any time. Excessive noise can come from an amplifier, musical instruments, voices, or motors.

Senior Constable Aleda Day said police deem

excessive noise to be any noise that disturbs the peace of another person.

“We encourage the public to work together to maintain a suitable noise level, so ask your neighbour politely first, to turn the music down,” Senior Constable Day said.

A bit of planning and forethought can prevent things from going wrong on the day and avoid a visit from the local police.

A few points to consider if planning a party include:

• Give neighbours advance warning of parties. Provide your contact details just in case

they need to contact you.

• Choose the right type of party for your neighbourhood, live bands and large crowds don’t mix in a residential neighbourhood.

• Don’t use open invitations on social media, invite only so you know who is attending, and

• Ensure you and everyone at your party stays safe and consumes alcohol responsibly.

“If all else fails and the noise is still excessive from a party near you, make a complaint to police. Contact Policelink online.”

If police attend your residence or that of a friend in relation to excessive noise and give you

a noise abatement direction, then you can’t make any excessive noise for 96 hours (four days).

If police get called back due to a further noise complaint, a court appearance is possible and the item omitting the noise may be seized.

People riding motorbikes on a place other than a road can also be given a noise abatement direction for the duration of 48hrs and if you fail to comply your motorbike may be seized.

For more information about excessive noise, check our website at www.police.qld.gov.au/initiatives/party-safe/noisy-parties-what-you-needto-know

PROPERTY

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

Your own peaceful hideaway

ESCAPE to your own hideaway! Nestled amongst the peace and quiet of gum trees and set on approximately 2.7 acres sits this lovely two storey home ready for you to call home.

Making your way down the driveway you will instantly feel at peace from the calming atmosphere created by the surrounding trees and gardens.

You enter the home via a lovely patio that expands the length of the front, offering multiple entrances.

The lower level features a large kitchen with plenty

22 Main Street, Atherton Phone: 4091 7111

TRULY ENCHANTING

Barrine

• 3 bedrooms with built-ins upstairs

• 2 bedrooms + office downstairs

• Master with ensuite and walk-in robe

• Timber kitchen with servery

• Deck with lake views

• 2 bay shed and 2 bay carport

$989,000 L22768550

Suzey Whitby0438 090 306

Margaret Black: Principal

RAINFOREST RETREAT

Ravenshoe

• Set on 21.85 hectares of rainforest

• Solid 4 bedroom, 2 bathroom home

• Front and rear patios

• 2 sheds + workshop

• Walking trails and creek

• Abundance of wildlife

Contact AgentL23300898

Morgan Brennan0407 730 450

of cupboard and bench space for all your kitchenware and sliding doors to the patio making entertaining a breeze.

Also on this level is the large living room, a bathroom plus laundry and elevated dining area with dual access to the backyard. The main bedroom is massive and houses large built-in storage.

Follow the staircase upstairs for the remaining 2 generous sized bedrooms, a secondary bathroom and beautiful deck; which captures a gorgeous outlook of the property and offers a

nice place to relax any time of day.

For the car enthusiast the massive four-bay shed plus workshop provides all the storage for the vehicles, boat & trailer. An additional smaller shed is great to store the mower and yard tools.

Set on a beautifully manicured 2.7 acres*, there is

Address:

Price:

Agent:

Contact:

plenty of room for the kids and pets plus it makes for that 'out of town' without being too far from town.

Contact Exclusive agent Suzey Whitby at Ray White Atherton today on 0438 090 306 for further information. www.raywhiteruralatherton.com.au/L23204228

TOLGA Offers Over $632,000 Exclusive to Suzey Whitby Ray White Atherton 0438 090 306 or 4091 7111

Atherton

LAND, LOCATION, HISTORY!

Atherton

• 2 storey Queenslander

• 5 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms

• 2 bedroom self-contained granny flat

• Self-contained studio

• Set on 2 acres close to town

• Sheds, fruit trees and VIEWS!

Offers Over $1,000,000L23245649

Suzey Whitby0438 090 306

RED SOIL & RAINFALL

East Palmerston

• Set on 124.66 hectares

• Fenced 7 paddocks with lanes

• Undercover cattle crush + scales

• 4 bay high clearance shed

• Massive 3 bedroom home + views

• Bore, rainwater tanks, 3 springs

$ P.O.A.

L22944676 Morgan Brennan0407 730 450

www.raywhiteruralatherton.com.au

POSITIONED perfectly on the outskirts of the Atherton Township with views of the surrounding farmland is this solid, stylish and low maintenance home sitting on an established and spacious 4252sqm

• Solid Block Rendered

Construction Throughout –Approximately 16yo

• 4252sqm Allotment –

Fenced On 3 Sides – Fully

Fenced Back Yard Area

(Great For Kids & Pets)

• Spacious Kitchen With Great Views & Ideal For Entertaining – Features Double Pantry, Gas Cooktop, Breakfast Bench & Serverey To Deck

• Large Lounge Room Area With Access Through Stylish Timber Doors To The Entertaining Deck – Complete With Wood Heater For Those Cooler Months

• Separate Spacious

PROPERTY

Outstanding acreage within easy reach of town

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

This 4,037m2 property is still within easy reach of town and features an as new 4 bedroom, 2 bathroom, sizeable home plus multiple sheds all on a low maintenance allotment.

The substantial list of inclusions are:

• Fully split system airconditioned 4 bedroom home with generous sized rooms and substantial living area

• Bedrooms with mirrored built-in robes

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

• Stunning central kitchen with stone bench tops, loads of cupboard space, breakfast bar, 900mm freestanding

stainless steel oven with gas cooktop & dishwasher plus a butlers pantry directly off the kitchen with extra bench & cupboard space plus room for an extra freezer

• Sizeable rear patio with views overlooking the acreage

• Security screens throughout + crimsafe screens on all the doors

• Stylish main bathroom with freestanding plunge bath

• Generous laundry

• Large built-in 3 door linen/storage cupboard off the living area

• 6.5kw solar power system & solar hot water

• Tv points in the living area, master bedroom & patio

• 6m x 4.5m skillion shed

• 6m x 3m powered kit

shed with concrete floor

• 6m x 4m caravan carport

• 4,037m2 allotment with assorted fruit trees, raised veggie bed & rose gardens

It’s tucked away from the hustle and bustle yet still only 10 minutes from all town amenities and awards a peaceful country lifestyle with everything desirable for your family.

Open for inspection this Saturday from 10.00am to 11.00am.

For further information or to arrange a private inspec-

tion please call exclusive agent Joe Torrisi on 0417 700 468.

ATHERTONTABLELANDS| NORTHQLD ATHERTON FORSALE

LARGESCALEIRRIGATIONBLOCKS

Availableasoneorastwoseparateholdings. Totalareaapprox.430Haor1062Acreson4titles. LocatedinproductiveArrigaareaapprox.20minsSWofMareeba. Irrigationinfrastructureinplaceforfloodirrigationorcentrepivots(3). Watersupplyonwesternsideisgravityfed.Mainroadsaccess. Comfortable,presentablehomesteadandshedding. PresentlyunderCaneandCotton.SandyLoamsoiltypes. Waterallocationscanbetailoredtosuitincomingbuyer’s requirements.

Nest or Invest in Atherton

WITH its masonry block construction, generous allotment, and convenient location, this property presents as a fantastic opportunity for those seeking a comfortable and convenient lifestyle or a great investment opportunity.

The home comprises of 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, providing ample space for family living or accommodating guests.

Features Include;

▪ Solid masonry block home

▪ 3 spacious bedrooms all with built-in robes

▪ 2 bathrooms

▪ Open plan living with a cosy fireplace

▪ Kitchen with electric appliances, dishwasher space, breakfast bar & ample bench space

▪ Internal laundry with built-in shelving & sink

▪ Full length sunroom at the front of home overlooking mountain views

▪ Security screens, ceiling fans & plenty of storage space throughout home

▪ Garage on both sides of home

▪ Garden/storage shed

▪ 1,012m2 allotment with a fenced backyard

▪ Currently tenanted for $390/week

Ideally located in a quiet street within a short distance to schools, day care, shopping & medical facilities.

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

The only limit is your imagination

SUNSET Ridge is the new pre-eminent neighbourhood in Atherton.

This impressively spacious home site of 860m², presents you with an opportunity to create something special without the obstacle of a pre-existing house. The land comes ready to be connected to services such as town water, under-ground electricity and sewerage.

The allotment offers stunning mountain views. For fun and fitness, included in

the Sunset Ridge estate is a 3 acre open space park reserve with access to the tree lined Mazlin Creek.

A children’s playground is located in the nearby Collins Park. Property covenants apply to protect the value of your home.

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

Upper Barron lifestyle dream

THIS unique acreage property of 10 acres has amazing views overlooking the green hills surrounding the Atherton tablelands and is just 10 Minutes from Atherton CBD.

The residence has an immaculate 4 bedroom plus office home that has been cleverly designed with the Tablelands weather and lifestyle in mind, and is surrounded by manicured lawns and gardens.

This solid home offers a well designed entertainers kitchen with red cedar timber and stone bench tops, has multiple open plan living areas giving easy access to dining, living, pool area with wood-burning fireplace.

There are four generous bedrooms plus separate office, main bathroom having separate shower and spa,

laundry with built-ins and spacious master bedroom with a very generous builtin robe and direct access to pool area.

This home also features a second tiled outdoor area to take in the tablelands rural views and sheds won't disappoint with two fully enclosed high clearance sheds with plenty of workshop space with one having shower and w/c with both sheds having income potential as storage sheds.

To compliment your tranquil country living there are very well manicured vegetable and herb gardens.

PROPERTY FEATURES :

• Quality built home featuring solid block rendered internal walls

• Multiple open plan living areas with fire place and cork

tiles throughout

• Quality kitchen with red cedar and stone bench tops

• Master bedroom with ensuite, spa and direct access to the pool

• Fully tiled out door patios

• Domestic and livestock bore water connected along with 2 X rain water tanks

• 12m X 9m shed with power, water, shower and w/c

• 18 X 10m shed with power connected and workshop area

• Cattle yards, loading ramp with the property being

fenced into 3 separate paddocks

• Very well established pastures

• Fully sealed driveway for all weather access

• Creek access

• Income potential from letting sheds and agisting pastured paddocks

To discover the benefits of this truly immaculate acreage property for yourself, contact Marketing Agent Collette Rowston on 0419 733 712.

Acreage and convenience

LOCATED just minutes from the main street of Atherton this property is perfect for those wanting more space without sacrificing the convenience of being close to facilities.

Quality built and set back from the street to take full advantage of the north facing rural views, this home has been perfectly designed for a FNQ lifestyle, beautiful open plan living indoors and out, a kitchen built for entertaining, shed for the toys, playground for the kids and the list goes on.

The home features include:

• Open plan living, kitchen and dining with pot belly fire place and large french doors

leading onto the deck.

• Huge kitchen with no shortage of bench space, gas cooktop, dishwasher, pantry and views from the kitchen sink.

• 4 air-conditioned bedrooms, 3 with built in robes and the master with Ensuite and sliding doors onto the deck.

• A spacious deck which will no doubt be where you will spend most of your days relaxing or entertaining.

• Main bathroom with a corner spa bath and separate toilet.

• Single carport with undercover washing line.

• Ample linen storage along the length of the hall-

way

• Large laundry with direct external access.

• Masonry walls throughout

• Freshly painted inside and out

• Fans and window screens throughout

Outside this property features the following:

• 4252m2 lot with landscaped gardens providing privacy

Address:

Price: Agent:

Contact:

• 8m x 7m double bay shed with power

• Concrete pathways around the perimeter of the home

• Dog proof fencing at the rear of the block

• Fully sealed driveway

• Custom built playground

To arrange an inspection contact Elders Agent Michelle Raso on 0428 116 136. ersrealestate.com.au

2 Larfield Close, ATHERTON REDUCED to $779,000 Michelle Raso Elders Real Estate Tablelands 0428 116 136

Spacious extras in high set town queenslander

WITH beautiful timber features throughout and heaps of usable space underneath, this high-set timber home has everything we've come to expect in a Queenslander! Welcome to 29 Robins Street, Mareeba.

As you walk up the front steps you are greeted by a lovely deck which is a perfect place for your morning coffee, or perhaps a great area to sit and read your favourite novel.

Inside there are spacious living areas which boast polished timber floors and high ceilings, including a large lounge room and generous open plan dining room which is also open to the kitchen.

Completing the upstairs area is the family bathroom and two bedrooms, also with polished timber floors and high ceilings.

Downstairs is all enclosed and there is a large usable space with a multitude of options. Firstly directly off the driveway is a set of gates that allow for vehicle storage in one area.

Another area would be great for a home gym or heaps of storage out of the weather.

There is a spacious utility room which would be great for a home office or a studio, or even a great chill-out area for the kids. The laundry is down here too and there is heaps more space for whatever else you can think of.

Out the back is a great covered and concreted patio, perfect for relaxing in the afternoon, or great for a BBQ and drinks with friends.

Add to that a 7m x 4m (approx.) shed and the package is complete! All this on a very manageable 698m2 block of land in a quiet culde-sac just minutes from the CBD.

Features include:

• High-set Queenslander home

• Beautiful timber features throughout

• Heaps of usable space underneath

• Light and airy front deck

• Spacious living areas, polished timber floors, high ceilings

• Two bedrooms, one bathroom upstairs

• Additional studio or office and more space downstairs

• Vehicle storage, home gym, workshop area, take your pick!

• Private covered and concreted rear patio

• 7m x 4m (approx.) shed, side vehicle access

• Fully fenced 698m2 block of land in a quiet culde-sac

Apart from any customisations that you want to make, this home is ready to move into, so don't delay, call exclusive agent Remo Esposito on 0401 969 473 to book your private inspection today.

Centrally located in the world renowned Atherton Tablelands horticultural region, North Qld. 36.52 Ha prime farming land with 127 meg Water Licence.

Level Northerly aspect with room for further planting.

Approx. 2800 Shephard Avos and 900 Lime trees. Fenced with good water infrastructure. Very comfortable home with basic staff accommodation and very good ancillary shedding. Ideal starter block.

Owners are genuinely committed to selling and this property will sell.

Offers prior to Auction would be considered.

OTAKE A BREAK

BIG WORD SEARCH CROSSWORD

23 a drink made from stewed extract of beef, used as nourishment for invalids (4,3)

25 having or showing a lack of thought or intelligence; mindless

26 untamed; undisciplined

27 a unit of weight

Down

1 a person who lives in a village

2 cry and sniff in a feeble or fretful way

3 a person providing maintenance on machinery, especially domestic machinery

4 a white salty Greek cheese made from the milk of ewes or goats

5 something that has been or can be added to an existing object or arrangement (3-3)

6 away from the correct path or direction

8 make or become stronger or more resilient

Across

9 habitually or typically occurring or done; customary

13 to perform an action in a harsh or rough in manner

15 a head of a government department

16 a final or concluding act or event

17 a portable breathing device for free-swimming divers

18 finding something funny or entertaining

20 a man who sells or delivers ice

22 regard favourably or with approval; welcome

24 a simple, non-flowering, and typically aquatic plant of a large group that includes many single-celled forms

Mar 21 - Apr 19

This week, is packed with exciting possibilities. It’s the calm before the storm, take some time to rest for the week ahead. Things began changing a few months ago, now is the time to leap forward. Manifest and meditate on what you desire, the universe will pave the

JUN 21 - JUL 22

This week, could be one of your best weeks yet. Take some time early in the week for some self care. A decision made a few months ago might have taken on a different trajectory. It’s time for you to solidify the plan and move forwards with what YOU need.

sep 23 - oct 22

Puzzle Solutions

This week, you’re unstoppable. It’s possible you don’t follow the news, but recent events have drawn you in and you’re comprehending the bigger picture. A lot has changed since April, now it seems like the dust has settled and your direction is crystal clear.

Dec 22 - Jan 19

This week, you can take a giant leap forward. Early in the week you could connect with someone from your past. There has been upheaval in your life recently. Hindsight is 20/20, take a moment to reflect and look at how it all worked out for the good.

apr 20 - may 20

This week, you have huge opportunities ahead. What began in April is now in full force. You might feel the urge to push forwards, while you’re aware of the feelings of others, right now you don’t want to pause and listen. It might be worth a small pause for collaboration.

WEEKLY HOROSCOPES SUDOKU

JUL 23 - AUG 22

This week, there are big things coming your way. You would have some interesting insights through your dreams. Changes were set in motion a few months ago, now they’re in full swing. Don’t hold on to the reigns so tightly that you pass by help offered.

oct 23 - nov 21

This week, could be a game changer for you. You might be waxing philosophical, you’re grounding your beliefs and views. You decided to make some changes, now the doors are open and beckoning you forward, out of your comfort zone and into magic.

Jan 20 - Feb 18

This week, you are a force to be reckoned with. You might be reestablishing an old inner work routine. A plan you made a few months ago has percolated, now you can see the different opportunities opening up for you. You might meet a guide along the way.

May 21 - Jun 20

This week, is going to be busy but worth it. The decisions made in April are coming back into focus. You could feel torn between charging ahead with your ideas or waiting for the right partner to share your journey. Only you could do both of these things at once.

Aug 23 -Sep 22

This week, is full of growth and progress. Early in the week could be very social with family and friends. Later in the week decisions made recently regarding your finances could start to bear fruit. You might not feel ready but it’s time to jump in with both feet.

nov 22 - dec 21

This week, there’s abundance ahead. Your thoughts could be on a relationship from long ago, maybe in a dream or their name just pops into your head. Plans announced are no longer just a concept, it’s time to take the practical steps forwards.

Feb 19 - Mar 20

This week, you cross a major stepping stone. Early in the week you could be feeling nostalgic. You have experienced a massive shift over the last few months. Looking back now you can see that it was meant to be and new doors are opening as you move forward.

POSITION VACANT

Careers with Queensland Health

MOSS, Lynette Dawn

“Lyn”

Late of OzCare Malanda. Passed away on Saturday the 8th of July, 2023. Aged 73 years.

Much loved Wife of Robert William Moss. Loving Mother of Brian & Ian Moss. Loving Grandmother. Lyn will be sadly missed by family and friends.

“We will remember you for you!”

Relatives and friends of Lyn are respectfully invited to attend her funeral service which will be held at Mountain View Chapel, 3 Nasser Road, Atherton on Thursday 20th July, 2023 commencing at 2.00pm.

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

BROOKER, Roslyn Ellen “Roz”

Late of Atherton. Passed away on 11th July, 2023. Aged 66 years.

Dearly loved Mother & Mother-in-Law of Bianca & John, Cheree & Fred and Simone. Loving Nin of Blair, Makayla, Dustie, Ashley, Jace, Corey and Aiden. Much loved Sister, Sister-in-Law and Aunty of Kay, Sandra, Douglas (dec.), Joanne, Donald, Cheryl, Ashley, Kim and their families. Relatives and friends of Roz are respectfully invited to attend her service which is to be held Graveside at Atherton Cemetery on Friday 21st July, 2023 commencing at 10.00am.

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

FUNERAL SERVICES

DEBBIE BOARDMAN

Funeral Celebrant

Final farewells with respect.

Phone 0410 328 357

SAY Thank you, in The Express 4092 3464 or admin@ theexpressnewspaper. com.au

Dental Assistant

Atherton / Mareeba / Lotus Glen Health Service, Oral Service

Salary: $39.65 - $42.09 per hour.

Duties/Abilities:

To work as part of the dental team and provide a high standard of Dental assistance to Oral Health Patients.

• Provide accurate and proficient assistance and adaptation to any operator to provide four-handed dentistry, retraction and evacuation techniques and application of rubber dam. Monitoring of, and assisting operator in, management of patient well-being and anxiety level and an awareness of medical conditions.

DOB: 08/11/2021

BREED: KELPIE X STAFFY

I have a beautiful affectionate nature, great guard dog, won’t let anyone enter the yard. Great with kids, more suited to older kids as I’m still learning manners. NOT good with cats or chooks. I come vet checked, microchiped, desexed, vaccinated, wormed & flea/tick treated. My adoption fee is $300.

If you would like to meet JET - please call 0487 430 443.

EFTPOS Available

PUBLIC NOTICE

COMMUNITY RESILIENCE FACILITATOR

Part Time (30 Hour/Fortnight)

Fixed Term to February 2025

Location Options: Georgetown, Mareeba or Croydon

DIGITAL CAPACITY

SUPPORT OFFICER

Part Time (30 Hour/Fortnight)

Fixed Term to February 2025

Location Options: Georgetown, Mareeba or Croydon

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

Applications close:

9.00am, Monday 7 August, 2023. We also accept Expressions of Interest for future positions via our website.

• Prepare equipment, instruments and materials utilised in a variety of dental procedures utilising knowledge and understanding of the stages within a dental procedure combined with ability to pre-plan and adapt as treatment proceeds.

• Ensure equipment, instruments, materials and surgery satisfy infection control standards through utilising standard/universal precautions, decontamination procedures, barrier draping. Utilise protocol for managing blood and body substance spills. Use infection control protocols and relevant Standards and Guidelines for cleaning, sterilising reusable items and for the disposal of surgery waste.

• Maintain adequate levels of materials and instruments within designated clinical areas, by restocking as necessary.

• Identify and fix minor equipment problems and refer to the appropriate repair departments/person with accurate fault description.

• Maintain an up to date knowledge of policies, procedures and trends relating to the provision of dental assisting including medico-legal responsibilities, ethical practice, codes of practice and relevant Standards.

• Provide general advice about personal oral hygiene and re-iterate pre and postoperative advice provided by operator and contribute to health promotion activities.

• Provide guidance to trainees and new appointees as required.

• Assist with patient appointments and record keeping including reception duties, data collection, computer inputting of data as required.

• Ensure a good knowledge of relevant equipment, instruments, materials, medicaments and procedures including safety procedures, Material Safety Data

• Sheets and Workplace Health and Safety regulations relating to the dental facility and its surrounds by reading relevant information/instruction sheets.

Enquiries: Anita Powderham 0427 919 075

Ref: CAH498865

Closing Date: Wednesday, 2 August 2023

TOP LOADER WASHING MACHINE

Haier 6kg, works perfectly, in VGC. $200 PH: 0439 771 627

PUBLIC NOTICE

Proposed Development

Make a submission from: 19th July, 2023 to 11th August, 2023

Material Change of Use –Short-Term Accommodation

Where: 49 Walsh Street, Mareeba

On: Lot 1 on RP719746

Approval Sought: Development Permit

Application Ref: MCU/23/0011

You may obtain a copy of the application and make a submission to:

Mareeba Shire Council PO Box 154, MAREEBA, QLD, 4880 info@msc.qld.gov.au 1300 308 461 www.msc.qld.gov.au

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

Millaa Millaa Rugby League History Group

Minor Art Union Cowboys vs Eels Tickets Winner: L. Smith, Yungaburra

PROPOSED PERMANENT ROAD CLOSURE

Attention is directed to an application for Permanent Road Closure of an area of about 4.08 hectares being part of Unnamed Road off Parise Road abutting Lot 10 on Crown Plan HG72, Lot 11 on Crown Plan HG72 and Lot 139 on Crown Plan HG120 shown as Lot B (proposed permanent road closure) on drawing CNS23/011 P. Objections to the application must be submitted no later than 18 August 2023, in writing to the Department of Resources, PO Box 937 Cairns QLD 4870 or online at the Queensland Government’s websfte at ‘Current Road Closure Applications’: https://www.qld.gov.au/environment/land/ state/roads.

Any objections received may be viewed by other parties interested in the proposed road closure under the provisions of the Right to Information Act 2009.

If you lodge an objection, please include in your objection letter whether you would like to be consulted if this issue becomes the subject of an access request under the Right to Information Act 2009.

For further details and to view a copy of the drawing, contact the Department of Resources Cairns Office, on (07) 4222 5427 quoting reference number 2022/001104 or view the application online on the Queensland Government’s website at ‘Current Road Closure Applications’: https://www.qld.gov.au/environment/land/ state/roads.

Corey Mitchell.

Talis Mitchel.

Jordon Jackson.

Codey Meade. Eli Toby.

Brody Cummins.

Jack Czygan.

Braydon Welby.

Jack Campbell.

Tristan Pye.

Darcy Wilton.

Shyan Sheppard.

MORE PHOTOS

Calling all Munchkins to play rugby league

LITTLE rugby league enthusiasts aged three to seven years old will have the opportunity to start playing early with the Munchkin League.

The program will run every Tuesday from 18 July for six weeks, with the program holding a philosophy of learning through play, promoting physical activity in a fun and interactive environment.

Munchkin League encourages children to learn fine and gross motor skills, teamwork, problem solving abilities and communication whilst developing friendships and building confidence.

Coach Tania Bolger will be taking the kids through step by step drills to get them ready for the day and said programs like this were essential to teaching youngsters important skills.

“The reason we are choosing this age is because a lot of kids these days don’t have backyards and access to basic ball skills so this is their opportunity to do that,” she said. “It teaches them ball skills and promoting physical activity whilst giving them the opportunity to interact and learn motor skills and team work and getting them into the team environment.

“We are all pretty much a family in the league world and it’s good to have a safe space for children in it – hopefully they progress into to all areas of sport growing up.”

The first session will kick off at the Atherton Junior Rugby League field from 3.30pm and a presentation will be held on Sunday 27 August to acknowledge the young players achievements.

Those wanting to get involved can register online or by contacting Tania on 0439 757 103.

Best of the best set to ride at PBR

ONE of the most exciting events on the ringer’s calendar, PBR Origin, will be coming to Cairns Convention Centre this week, roping in some of the best competitors from across the world.

Kicking off from 7pm on 22 July, rodeo lovers can get a taste of some of the best cowboys from across the country without having to the travel far.

Since its first round in 2019, the PBR Origin quickly became a hit for cowboys and cowgirls alike, bringing state rivalry to a whole new level.

PBR Australia general manager Glen Young said that like the NRL State of Origin, the PBR Origin has generated incredible support.

“I was there for the first round in 2019 in Sydney and we knew from then we had a pretty damn good product in terms of the Queensland versus

New South Wales rivalry,” he said.

“When Queensland won, it generated an amazing atmosphere – it was Origin. I have been doing this for 20 odd years and it is one of the best events I have ever seen.

“The lead was changing throughout the whole competition, and it came down to the last bull for Queensland to take the win.

“It’s great to see the fans, they all have so much fun.”

Queensland has taken out round one and two so far this year with hopes for another win in round three.

Tickets are available for purchase at www. pbraustralia.com.au/series/pbr-monster-energytour/schedule/

Queensland won round two of Origin recently. Photo: SAA Imaging

Young munchkins will kick off their rugby league careers through a new program held by the Atherton Junior Rugby League Club.

Photo: Captured by KylieMarie

SPORT

Close loss for Roosters

The Mareeba High boys went up against St Augustine’s Cairns last Thursday in the Aaron Payne Cup.

Saints topple Mareeba boys

BY ELLIE FINK

ALTHOUGH confident and ready for revenge, Mareeba State High School has once again fallen to St Augustine’s Cairns in the Aaron Payne Cup at Barlow Park last Thursday.

Despite their efforts, the Mareeba team ultimately succumbed to a 26-4 defeat, unable to overturn the 16-4 halftime score in the round four clash.

Among the standout performers for Mareeba SHS were Reece Boyle and Narason Moorcroft-Kose, with Boyle showcasing his versatility and adaptability by seamlessly transitioning into different positions on the field.

Despite an injury to the regular fullback, Boyle stepped up and delivered an impressive performance wherever the coach required him.

Moorcroft-Kose, was hot on his feet, demonstrated his formidable presence on the field, consistently making powerful runs that contributed to the team's efforts throughout the entire game.

Although the Aaron Payne Cup Team faced a setback, the younger Cowboys Challenge Team managed to secure a remarkable comeback victory.

The game got off to a shaky start for the Mareeba boys, with St Augustine's College

taking an early lead and displaying dominance on the field during the first 15 minutes.

However, the Cowboys Team regrouped and unleashed a remarkable comeback, completely turning the tide of the game.

The team's second-half display showcased their resilience and determination to secure victory, dominating the opposition through their cohesive play, ultimately taking home a win of 28-22.

Coach Daniel Behn said the younger boys win’ gave the team a boost in confidence and hopes both teams will come together and work hard in the lead up to round five.

“In the Cowboys Challenge game, it felt great to get the win against St Augustine’s on their home ground,” he said.

“We really wanted the win as they came to our home ground and dominated us in front of our home crowd in round one.

“We regathered ourselves at half time and played with more resilience and gained confidence when the boys trusted each other and put in the effort.”

The Mareeba boys will be heading to Townsville to go up against Mackay State High School once again.

Semi-finals for Aaron Payne Cup are set to kick off on 9 August.

Seminar inspires martial artists

MARTIAL arts students from Yama-No Seirei Budo had the opportunity to meet and learn Japanese Ju Jitsu and swordsmanship from two experts in the art during a recent three day seminar. Students from across the Tablelands came together in Mareeba and Tolga to learn from 7th Dan ju jutsu and head of Shinkendo Australia Shihan Howard Quick and head instructor of Senjutsu Ryu Ju jitsu Mount Gambia Sensei Dave Grassi. Sensai Dave Thomas said the seminar was a success and helped his students develop a variety of skillsets needed in martials arts and everyday life.

“It was an absolute success, and we had some many students from across the Tablelands and Mareeba involved,” he said.

“They were there to balance, movement and

many things that have role in many general aspects of life.

“I have a few older students, in their 50s, and they benefit from the movement and the self-defence and drills that create balance.

“It was an incredibly successful seminar; everybody was happy and it was just great to have two martial artist up here from two different parts of the country.”

Spending time learning the art of swordsmanship and focusing on their movements and balance, Sensai Thomas hopes to host more seminars in the future to help his students grow.

Yama-No Seirei Budo hopes to open its doors to new students over time. Those interested can contact Sensai Thomas through the “Yama-No Seirei Budo Martial Arts” Facebook page.

THE Atherton Roosters and competition heavyweights, Kangaroos, engaged in a blockbuster showdown at a very wet and muddy Vico Oval on Sunday afternoon. With the Roosters up 22-20 midway through the second stanza, a try with seven minutes left on the clock sealed a 26-22 win for Kangaroos.

Despite the loss, the Roosters were brave in their challenge and pushed Kangaroos to the limit and times looked well on top of their opposite.

Both teams crossed three times in a very entertaining opening session which featured some end to end efforts and went to the break locked up at 16 all.

The Roosters won the restart with Reece Munster’s try pushing them ahead 22-16. From here, the Roosters kept the pressure up and went close to posting another two four pointers.

Kangaroos enjoyed a glut of possession in the closing stages and were able to fine the line for their match winner through some tired Roosters defence.

In the under 18 match, the Roosters won over Kangaroos 22-12, while the reserve grade points went to Kangaroos 26-10.

This Saturday, the Senior Roosters host the local derby rugby league action against the Mareeba Gladiators.

Bulls secure another win

IN an impressive display of skill and determination, the Mareeba United Football premier men's team dominated the weekend game against the Stratford Dolphins, emerging victorious 4-1.

The win showcased their growth as a team, learning from past mistakes and enhancing their mental strength heading into the match.

From the onset, Mareeba United exhibited confidence and strength on the field, a testament to the hard work they put into their preparation.

By halftime, they had already established a commanding 3-0 lead, leaving the Stratford Dolphins struggling to keep up.

Coach Kane Alderton said the teams efforts in the first half set them up for the win.

“Luckily we had an early start in the first half or else the game could have gone a different way,” he said.

“In the second half, we just got caught up in the 3-0 lead and thought it would be more comfortable than what it was.”

However, the second half saw Mareeba United lose their footing, allowing the Stratford Dolphins to mount a fightback.

By full time, Mareeba came out victorious and are now sitting in third place on the ladder.

Next week they will have a bye for Cairns Show long weekend but will be back the following Saturday to compete against Redlynch.

Students from Yama-No Seirei Budo had the opportunity to learn from Japanese ju jitzu experts sensai Shihan Howard Quick and Sensei Dave Grassi.

Roosters forward Matt Whybird at Vico Oval on Sunday.

Toby takes out bull riding buckle

COMING out on top in an impressive finals win, Eli Toby of Normanton took out the open bull ride at this year’s Mareeba Rodeo.

Fast, quick and steady, Toby (pictured) took on every bull with precision with the win on his mind and was a crowd favourite from the start.

However, Heath Nicholls took home top cowboy whilst top cowgirl was tied between Sallie Pilgrim and Robyn McKellar.

Local cowboy Travis Koolatah made his debut in the open bull ride, scoring 70 points on the back of El Paso in round one.

In the bareback finals, there was only one man who took on the challenge of what has been described as the most physical sport in rodeo.

Brandon Van Zyl took home the win in the bareback category after surpassing eight seconds in the final, with the crowd going crazy.

In the State of Origin, it was New South Wales who took out the title in the 34-32 win.

It all came down to the last points, with Queensland in the lead for the majority of the game before New South Wales pushed through in the final rides.

• FULL RESULTS WILL BE PUBLISHED IN NEXT WEEK’S EDITION