The Express Newspaper 20th September 2023

CHINOOK LANDING EXCITES SCHOOL

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Teachers, students and parents, past and present, of St Joseph's School Atherton were excited to dress the part to celebrate their school's centenary.

The week-long celebrations included school tours, historical displays, a dinner, mass, fun day and the choir performing songs from each decade since the school opened in 1923.

Mrs McFarlane, Mia, Johnny and Hunter (pictured) dressed up for Centenary Dress Up Day event that saw students and teachers line Alice Street to see 100 years of classic cars roll past. ▪ PHOTOS PAGE 10

Wizard works magic

A SORCERER has been spotted walking across the Tablelands, turning people’s heads and bringing a smile to their faces.

Shanrickael the Sorcerer calls himself a real wizard, possessing the ability to telepathically speak to people with his mind and having a deep connection with the earth.

Over the past few months, many locals have spotted him walking on the side of the road, hitch hiking to different places across the Tablelands and Cairns, spreading positivity.

Though some find his abilities “silly”, his life mission is to help put a smile on people’s faces and bring some magic into the world.

“I started my adventures when I had a calling for somewhere to go,” he said.

“My intention at the very beginning was to meet all the positive, wonderful people of North Queensland, and I put that intention out in the universe.

“I am not disappointed; I have met so many incredible people and had some wonderful conversations with people who pick me up when hitchhiking.”

Safer road sessions for seniors

ON the back of successful programs held earlier this year, Tablelands Regional Council is again partnering with Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) and Queensland Police Service to host free Seniors on the Road information sessions.

“The program we ran earlier this year was very successful so, during this year’s Queensland Seniors’ Month, we are running two more sessions in Atherton,” Deputy Mayor Kevin Cardew said.

“Seniors on the Road builds knowledge and understanding of road safety for older members of our community.

“Our abilities change as we age so this session is a good opportunity to get a refresher and learn about safe driving, driving as an older person, health and driving, transition from driving, road rules and mobility scooters.”

The sessions will be held at the Disaster Coordination Centre in Vernon Street from 11.30am1.30pm on Monday 16 October, or 10am-12noon on Friday 20 October.

Places are limited so book (www.trc.qld.gov.

au/seniors-on-the-road) online or by calling 1300 362 242 before Monday 9 October to secure your place.

Transport and Main Roads Customer Services Branch Northern Regional Director Adam Ainsworth said the road safety team would present a range of information to assist the region’s older drivers.

“At the session, we will address common concerns that many older drivers face, including understanding new road rules and safe driving behaviours,” Mr Ainsworth said.

“We will also provide tips and support to people who are looking at transitioning away from driving.

“Most responsible older drivers recognise when they are no longer confident behind the wheel and voluntarily surrender their licences, but it can be a major lifestyle adjustment, so we like to provide information and support to help people on this transition.”

Attendees will also be shown how to access support for TMR online services and apps.

Locals urged to get fire ready

BY ELLIE FINK

THE DRY heat of summer has hit the region, with the local fire and rescue team urging locals to stay vigilant, have a plan and know the warnings this fire season.

With major wildfires already wreaking havoc in various parts of Queensland, this year's fire season looms ominously.

Hazard reduction burns have been conducted in the Tablelands and Mareeba regions so far, however, due to the rapidly shifting weather conditions, Queensland Fire and Emergency Services, in collaboration with the Department of Environment and Science and the Department of Resources, are racing against time to mitigate the fuel load.

With the potential threat of large bushfires in the region, Fire and Rescue Mareeba station officer Darryl Chaplain is urging locals to prepare.

“We have found the Far Northern region has a pretty active fire season in certain areas,” he said.

“This year, we are looking at a shorter than average season because of the late rainfall that we have, but there is a significant amount of fuel on the landscape, and that means there are some potentially dangerous fire conditions.

“There’s lots of dry grassland and leaf litter and mulch that is causing some concerns for us in the area, so being prepared and having a good clean area around buildings and creating fire breaks can make a huge difference in the event of a fire.”

This season, a new warning system has been implemented to ensure residents are well-informed about conditions and what actions need to be taken.

Mr Chaplain stressed the importance of learning this system, which comprises four

levels of danger: moderate, high, extreme, and catastrophic.

It serves as an indispensable tool for safeguarding the community in the event of a fire.

“So, you have to be aware of the bushfire rating and decide whether you are going to take your things and leave or stay and defend your property, which is the basis of a bushfire plan,” he said.

While a significant portion of bushfires are caused by lightning strikes, sparks, heat generated by vehicles on arid grasslands, or the ignition from discarded litter, a significant number of callouts received by the Mareeba fire units result from children playing with fire.

School holidays, especially during the summer months, mark the busiest periods for the firefighting crews, with Mr Chaplain issuing a solemn reminder to families; fire is a tool, not a toy.

“Undoubtedly, there will be fires in the region as the season goes, and we want people to listen and reduce the impact of those fires and to take care of them,” he said.

“Whilst people are camping and travelling through school holidays, we find a lot of kids playing with fire, and that is a major problem.

“We need to make sure people are educated not to play with fire and what impacts it causes because, for some people, it could mean devastating loss.”

Acting Inspector for the western command Troy Hastie has also reminded locals there is only limited time left to apply for permits to perform hazard burns on properties.

So far, QFES has worked closely with the Rural Fire Brigades, departments and property owners to tackle high fuel loads in the region but stressed the amount of load

left is still high.

He said if locals see any fires in their area and are concerned, they can contact Triple Zero (000).

“From there, they will be informed whether it’s a bushfire or hazard burn and if it’s a bushfire, they will send a crew out,” he said.

“If property owners wish to do their burns, they need to be aware no permits will be issued soon because of the conditions we are seeing.”

To apply for a permit to perform hazard reduction burns, contact your local fire warden. To view all warnings in the area, go to www.qfes.qld.gov.au/Incident-Dashboard

To make a bushfire plan, www.qfes.qld. gov.au/planning-and-compliance/bushfireplanning

KNOW YOUR WARNINGS

These warnings will be broadcasted via local media, door knocks and the QFES website during the event of a bushfire.

ADVICE: There is no immediate danger but stay informed.

WATCH AND ACT: The level of threat is high, act now to protect yourself and your family.

EMERGENCY WARNING: You are in danger, take life-saving actions immediately.

FIRE SEASON READY: Firefighters Mitch Timmins, Jamie Ryan, Troy Hastie, Darryl Chaplain and Jared Hohns are urging locals to be prepared this fire season.

Aviation museum open day

LOCALS are being urged to come out to the Mareeba Airport this weekend to learn about what the Far North Queensland Aviation Museum does and learn about the history of aviation at an open day.

The event, to be held on Saturday from 10am-1pm, will feature author Noel Tunny who will be available for a meet and greet and to sign any of his books, like Winning From Downunder.

As part of the open day, visitors can see how the museum is progressing, learn more about what the group plans to do and the aviation history of Mareeba.

FNQAM has invited fly-in or drive-in visitors to join them at the open day where there’ll be free entry, a sausage sizzle, cold drinks, displays open and merchandise available.

The museum will be open from 10am-1pm. RSVP to admin@fnqam.com.au

Ladies unite to revive QCWA

A GROUP of community-minded women has come together to revive the Ravenshoe QCWA, which had remained inactive since the onset of Covid.

Following its closure in 2020, the Ravenshoe QCWA hall sat vacant and was listed for sale.

President Toni Perrin and a team of like-minded women sprang into action, determined to breathe new life into the organisation.

“We all felt very strongly about wanting to keep the hall, and we all believed the QCWA does a lot of good work in our community, so we wanted to get it back up and running,” she said.

“We managed to form a full executive committee at the meeting and were officially declared reopened.

“It’s a testament to the people of Ravenshoe. The turnout of that meeting was incredible, and there was a number of young faces there.”

With several exciting initiatives already in the works, this diverse group of women from various backgrounds are prepared to take on the responsibility of supporting women in the Ravenshoe community.

As a younger team, they plan to adopt a more contemporary approach to fundraising, using their social media platforms to promote events and collaborating with other community organisations.

Locals interested in joining the Ravenshoe QCWA are encouraged to reach out via email at ravenshoebranch@ qcwa.org.au.

Community grants now open

RAVENSHOE-Gulf Country Community Enterprises Limited have released two community grant programs for the Ravenshoe-Gulf Country area.

RGCCEL owns the franchise for Community Bank Ravenshoe Gulf Country Bendigo Bank.

The Community Grants Program is designed to make better, targeted use of funds that are responsive to community needs and support projects that make a positive contribution to Ravenshoe-Gulf Country towns.

Applications from charitable and not-for-profit organisations for projects that offer clear public benefit for the community, contributing to its development in building social capital, community welfare, environmental, health, education or cultural areas are welcomed.

RGCCEL chair Lara Wilde said the community bank was set up to ensure funds are filtered back into the community.

“That’s exactly what this program is designed to do,” she said.

“We love seeing the exciting ideas that people and organisations come up with to help the community grow and flourish.”

RGCCEL has also partnered with My Pathway to offer support and mentorship of the Workforce Australia Self Employed Assistance Program and brand new incentives to address early business costs.

This incentive will provide eligible participants a business bank account with $1200 to be used towards business costs such as marketing, business

name registration, logo design, business photography, EFTPOS facilities, solicitor fees and utilities setup.

This is in addition to existing support funding available within the program and represents a significant bonus to those taking up the offer.

My Pathway’s Self Employment Assistance Program Manager David Webber welcomed the new partnership, highlighting how RGCCEL’s support would further help new business ventures in the region.

“We are very grateful to have entered this partnership to help strengthen our program in the region around Ravenshoe,” he said.

“The Self Employment Assistance program already provides the knowledge and tools to create a successful business, but the community support RGCCEL are providing will greatly enhance the program in this region.”

For full details and to apply in the community enterprise program, visit www.cia.communityenterprisefoundation.com.au/Program/ Index/1?programId=4728. Applications close on 2 October.

Eligible applicants in the My Pathway grant will also make use of the Self Employment Assistance program’s flexible mentoring and support to help start their own business or strengthen an existing business.

To apply for the My Pathway grant, visit www. mypathway.com.au/self-employment or call the My Pathway team on 1800 319 588.

The Ravenshoe QCWA executive committee Mumma Taylor, Denise Evans, Nicole Drew, Toni Perrin and Kerry Byrne.

Radical changes to keeping stock, dog local laws

BY ROBYN HOLMES

A MAJOR change that will affect people who own animals is being proposed by Tablelands Regional Council which would mean those with two dogs must live on a property bigger than 4000 square metres.

The radical changes also mean those with stock, including a horse, would have to apply for a permit from council to keep the animal if they live in an urban area or on a lot less than 20,000 sq metres.

Changing local laws is a complex process which requires the council to put any proposed changes out to the community for comment and councillors are already predicting residents will not be happy.

At a recent meeting, councillors expressed particular concern about the requirement for a 20,000sqm lot to keep stock, while those who already have more than two dogs living on properties less than 4000sqm are also expected to push back on the proposed changes.

Currently, two dogs are allowed on a property of 1000sq m.

Cr Dave Bilney he was “trying to get his head” around the proposed changes which he described as “too severe”.

“I want to get a clear picture of what (the changes) that looks like in reality. So, if you have got less than five acres, to have stock in a rural residential area you need a permit?” he asked.

A council officer explained that change would Increase the minimum lot size to keep stock from 4000sq m to 20,000sq m, with the minimum standards requiring 4000sq m an animal.

“I personally think that this is far too restrictive – you go out those (rural res) areas to keep a couple of animals – it will basically affect everyone that has a rural res property in my opinion,” Cr Bilney said.

“I think it has to be watered down, it’s too severe.”

Deputy Mayor Cr Kevin Cardew said council was acting on legal advice in proposing the changes and while he had concerns about the community’s reaction, he was comforted by the fact they would be subject to public feedback.

“I struggle to make sense of the report, but we have to rely on the correctness of our legal advice. But I do note that it will allow for public consultation – these changes are not set in stone,” he said.

“I can’t say I’m entirely happy with the outcome of this – we have made some significant changes in there to address a lot of the concerns and complaints we have had in recent times.

“We have to be mindful of not making this local law too onerous that it affects the majority of people who may want to keep animals on rural residential or urban properties.

“But we have to try and get it right to make it easier for our officers to be able to control and police.

“It is going to go out for public consultation

and we will have an opportunity to review this again at a later date and if the concerns I have are addressed through the public consultation, then those changes may be made by council when it comes back to us.”

The concerns of councillors triggered a discussion as to whether they should change the size of the lot required for stock before going out for consultation, but Mayor Rod Marti cautioned them against trying to “write policy” in a council meeting.

“We’re trying to fix one particular problem and we’re creating a whole range of other problems,” he said.

“We shouldn’t be writing policy in a council meeting - we have got the public consultation to occur, I suspect that if we go with those amendments we did this morning, I suspect there will be quite strong public feedback on some of the matters, then we can come back and deal with those things then.

“We don’t want to author any more work today, not because we can’t make it better, but because this is not the forum to do it in.”

But Cr Dave Bilney pushed for the 20,000sq m lot size to be changed to 10,000sq m before going out to consultation.

“Why would we put that out there and create angst among our community when we can change it now. I suggest we amend it to 10,000sq m and then go out,” he said.

But council did not agree to reduce the size of the minimum lot required for stock.

Cr David Clifton then raised the issue of how council would manage all the permits that would be required to keep stock.

“The more permits we require, the more resources the TRC has to have and we’ll have to assess that when we get the community feedback because there is no point in having an expanded permit system that you can’t afford to support because you haven’t got the staff resources and the budget to do it,” he said.

After the meeting and responding to questions from The Express, a council spokesperson said the proposed changes to the Local Laws were based on the feedback councillors had received.

He said the public consultation period would be from 25 September to 20 October and encouraged locals to make submissions.

“We encourage people to make submissions as part of our public consultation so we can better understand the impact these changes would have on households, and wider community sentiment,” he said.

When asked what would happen if pet owners already had more than the prescribed number of dogs allowed on their urban property under the new rules, he said: “Community feedback will also help inform the transitional arrangements that would need to be put in place for those affected by any adopted amendments.”

Vibrant fashions with a touch of pink were on show at the Atherton Turf Club over the weekend for the Atherton Annuals.

▪ MORE PHOTOS PAGE 15

▪ RACING RESULTS PAGE 34

RACE

DAY FUN AND FASHION

Lui confirms re-election bid

WITH Queensland Opposition leader David Crisafulli heading to Mareeba this week and making it clear that winning the Cook electorate is a priority for the LNP, current member Cynthia Lui has confirmed she will contest the seat again in 2024.

Mr Crisafulli will front a “Health Crisis Town Hall” meeting at the Jackaroo Motel on Thursday, followed by a presentation at a Mareeba Chamber of Commerce luncheon, but he is yet to reveal who will be the LNP candidate for Cook or Barron River.

However, he says the party has “potential candidates bashing down the door” to represent the electorates at the 2024 election.

Ms Lui, who has been in office since 2017, said she would definitely be contesting the next election, most likely to be held in October 2024.

She says her delivery on promises to the electorate meant she deserved another term and had a swipe at Mr Crisafulli over his trip north.

“While I acknowledge that there is always going to be more work to do, I hold a strong belief that our government is currently delivering and that I will continue to deliver for Cook,” Ms Lui said.

“It’s easy for the LNP to fly up here, bag our community and fly home.

“If they were serious about our community, they would have already announced their candidate.”

But Mr Crisafulli says during his trip to the Torres Strait and the Cape, community leaders and residents were “crying out” for better basic services in health, education and infrastructure.

“But after eight years in office, the Palaszczuk Government has stopped listening,” he said.

“Far North Queenslanders deserve local Members of Parliament who will fight for them, instead of the current crop of Labor MPs who are more interested in their own political survival.”

Ms Lui rejects that premise and outlined some of the reasons she should be re-elected.

“Since I was elected in 2017, I have worked tirelessly to secure and deliver for Cook,” she said.

“This commitment has led to significant achievements, such as securing $3 million for the development of Splash Parks, which was a promise fulfilled.

“Most recently, during my visit to Mareeba, I had the honour of announcing $63,000 in state funding for the much-needed upgrades to the Mareeba Tennis Club.

“Additionally, we've just recently announced $5 million to construct a new PCYC facility in Mareeba.

“These investments come on top of the tens of millions already dedicated to improving infrastructure, healthcare, ambulance services, marine assets, freight subsidies and various community projects throughout our region.”

Those wishing to attend the Health Crisis Town Hall meeting can do so at the Jackaroo Motel function room from 9.30am on Thursday.

Those wishing to attend the luncheon at 12 noon at the Mareeba International Club can book at www.events.mareebachamber.com.au.

Drivers face hefty fines for reckless driving in parks

MOTORISTS caught taking potentially fatal risks in Queensland’s protected areas will be fined hundreds of dollars more by Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service (QPWS) rangers under changes aimed at improving driver behaviour and the safety of visitors.

From 15 September, the fines issued by QPWS rangers for some of the most reckless driving offences committed in protected areas and reserves were increased to match fines issued by the Queensland Police Service.

Offences with increased penalties in national parks, State forests, recreation areas and reserves include:

▪ Failure to properly wear a seatbelt –fines will increase from $309 to $1,161

▪ Driving without due care and attention – from $309 to $619, and

▪ Failure to wear a motorbike helmet while riding, or being a passenger – from $309 to $464.

A new $309 fine of dangerous driving of vehicles other than motor vehicles, such as e-scooters, will also be introduced for State forests to match the existing fine for protected areas and recreation areas.

QPWS rangers are empowered to enforce these vehicle laws and can direct drivers or riders to stop. Failure to comply is an offence.

QPWS Compliance Optimisation manager Michael Devery said rangers made no apologies for handing out hefty fines to those caught endangering lives behind the wheel in protected areas.

“Queensland is home to some of the most popular vehicle-accessible beach

New RADF grants open

GRANTS for arts, heritage and cultural projects are now open for applications through Tablelands Regional Council’s Arts Development Fund (RADF).

tracks in Australia – many of which are managed by QPWS,” he said.

“While most drivers and riders do the right thing while visiting these places, sadly we have seen the tragic consequences of irresponsible motorists including fatalities and significant injuries.”

Over the past 12 months, rangers have issued 29 fines across the State for seatbelt offences, 79 fines for careless driving and three fines for failure to wear a motorbike helmet.

Mr Devery said avoiding these hefty fines was easy.

“Obey all signage including the speed limit, wear your seatbelt, never drink and drive and never let anyone without a licence behind the wheel,” he said.

“The increased fines might hurt if you get one, but they’re a lot less painful than a vehicle rollover or worse.

“Driving in parks and on beaches means navigating changing conditions which can fluctuate daily, especially in tidal areas.

“That’s why it’s so important for drivers, riders and passengers to be secure, sensible and alert at all times.

“We want everyone to have a safe and enjoyable experience on our beautiful beaches, parks and forests, but it’s up to drivers to do the right thing to make this happen.”

Rangers carry out regular patrols of national parks, State forests and recreation areas and work in partnership with the Queensland Police Service to enforce the road rules.

The grants are aimed at supporting individuals, groups, and organisations and allow for up to $6000 for arts and cultural projects, including heritage and cultural tourism in the Tablelands region.

Previous grant recipient Stella Freund received a $5000 RADF grant towards the cost of producing a book about the Tolga Bat Hospital.

“Crafted by writer Jenny Mclean and brought to life through captivating visuals by Juergen Freund, the book captures the essence of the hospital’s story. Thanks to RADF funding and our successful Kickstarter campaign, we’ve been able to share the book with a global and domestic audience,” Ms Freund said.

The Herberton Business andTourism Association also received a $5000 RADF grant last year to launch a new festival.

“RADF was instrumental in the creation of the inaugural Herberton Pocket Film Festival in 2022,” festival committee member Peter Whalley-Thompson said.

“We applied for a grant to fund two film creators to teach the basic skills of making film on smartphones. The buzz surrounding those workshops helped to bring other sponsors on board and drew attention to our event with the wider public audience.

“In the end we had a very successful festival that drew a large audience, and which showcased a wide variety of stories of life on the Atherton Tablelands.”

Details about the grant and application information are available online at www.trc.qld.gov.au/radf and at customer service centres.

People can also contact the Regional Arts Officer for advice and assistance at artsofficer@trc.qld.gov.au before starting their application and ensure it is submitted by 5pm Monday 2 October.

Small RADF grants of up to $1000 are also available at any time until funds are allocated.

“I was glad to receive $463 from RADF to attend APAX, a national

performing arts conference, where I have been invited to pitch my current play-in-development. I am grateful for the support of the RADF committee,” Sara Kuliliya Isherwood said.

The Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF) is a partnership between the Queensland Government and Tablelands Regional Council to support local arts and culture in regional Queensland.

Lyndel Turpin received a $1100 RADF grant to run workshops with young people to paint a bus shelter in Tarzali.

Chinook visit by military thrills school

A CHINOOK army helicopter has landed on the Malanda State High School oval as a part of their career pathway and STEM programs.

Touching down last Wednesday, students had the opportunity to speak with army personnel and learn about the different career paths in the defence force.

Tablelands new suicide prevention trial

A COMMUNITY touchpoint providing an immediate compassionate response for any person experiencing distress and who may be at heightened risk of suicide will be set up on the Tablelands.

One of only two new Distress Brief Support trials in Queensland will be established in the Tablelands region, which will include the compassionate response support, following the recent announcement of the Australian and Queensland Government jointly funded service.

While the Tablelands location is yet to be announced, the service will be codesigned to meet the local needs of North Queensland and will be delivered in partnership between Northern Queensland Primary Health Network

(NQPHN) and Cairns and Hinterland Hospital and Health Service (CHHHS).

NQPHN Chief Executive Officer

Robin Whyte said the announcement was good news for the Cairns and Hinterland region and would provide another level of much-needed support.

“Suicide prevention is a complex issue and given the diversity and geographic location of the NQPHN catchment, there is a real need for a service for anyone experiencing distress,” Ms Whyte said.

“A key priority for NQPHN is to encourage and promote a regional approach to suicide prevention, and we are proud to partner with Cairns and Hinterland HHS and the local communities

to further address the health gaps in our region.”

Ms Whyte said the Distress Brief Support service would provide two types of support for anyone experiencing distress.

“The first tier of support is a community touchpoint who will provide an immediate compassionate response. The community touchpoints will then refer the person in distress to the Distress Brief Support short-term support team,” Ms Whyte said.

“The service will provide up to 14 days of support with an aim to working through the underlying drivers of their distress, manage their distress, and support them to feel connected.

“Support will also be provided to friends, family, and caregivers of those experiencing psychosocial distress to better equip their loved one.”

CHHHS Mental Health Clinical Director Mike Tervit said providing the Distress Brief Support service to the Tablelands region would allow local community members the benefit of remaining close to home, while receiving immediate support and understanding on how to effectively manage their distress and how and where to seek further help.

Minister for Health, Mental Health and Ambulance Services and Minister for Women Shannon Fentiman recently announced Phase Two of the whole of government Every Life: The Queensland

Suicide Prevention Plan 2019-2029, alongside $11.5 million to better support at-risk groups.

Phase Two of the plan has an increased focus on groups disproportionately impacted by suicide, including men, those from regional, rural and remote areas, First Nations people, and young people.

It highlights the need for earlier intervention in distress and vulnerability, and greater lived experience leadership in suicide prevention.

“Phase One of Every Life laid the foundation and Phase Two will continue to make prevention and reducing suicide a priority for government and for the community.”

Torimba Festival 2023

THIS YEAR'S THEME......"WHEN I GROW UP"

Miss N Master judging / Meet N Greet of Torimba Queens / Fashio

Torimba Queen Entrant Cake Stall with the Queen’s lush CAR WASH

$20 Big n Dirty / $15 small but dusty...music by the G. String

Photo Competition entrants display

Sausage sizzle and blacksmith display

FESTIVAL OF THE FOREST OPENS! & Decorated premises winners

Phillip Woodleigh Memorial Cricket Match

Day 1 - TORIMBA CRICKET CHALLENGE

Mt Garnet / Ravenshoe / Milla Milla cricket players go head to

Celebrating the memory of local cricket legend Phillip Woodleig

Misty Mountain music performs with heir eclectic folk style

Phillip Woodleigh Memorial - TORIMBA CRICKET CHALLENGE

9 - hole Ambrose with all the Torimba Queens $14 adults/$10 kids

$5 Entry

Great night, get a team of 8 together - prizes for the best dre

Painting workshop with artist Louise Broadbent $50 all incl Torimba Ecumenical Church Service

Ravenshoe Writers Group Poetry Reading and BOOK business RSL Hall

Ravenshoe Chamber of Commerce presents the annual

“HOEDOWN” dancing under the stars with Jacynta

Bar & Food on grounds / Camping from 4pm on grounds by donation

Festival of the Forest woodwork display

Torimba Mardi Gras Day Street parade – Live DJ - Rides - Stalls

Barefoot Bowls with the Torimba Queens & Raffle

Painting workshop with artist Louise Broadbent $50 all incl

Bumper Bingo Night with Light Supper from our local bakers.

Thu 19th 9am - 11am Ravenshoe Writers Group & Poetry

Torimba Festival Ball & Crowning of the Festival Queens

Dress to impress and dance the night away with live music on st

ART SHOW

Creativity was on show last week at Mareeba State School as students swapped their notebooks for canvas, showcasing their creative spark at the annual school Art Show. From a neon underwater display to drawings of pets, each classroom was given a unique theme to design.

The 53rd Annual Festival of the Forest Showcasing regional submissions and wood artisans

The Art Shed presents Torimba Photography competition and Art D submission from both amatuer and professionals Artworks on Display in Ravenshoe

Kingfisher Art Gallery showcases the many talented local artist landscapes. Photography and sculptures…and great coffee!

s Art Gallery. Local landscape artist and author, Winsome Board community into her home gallery

The Barn. An eclectic display of local paintings, artworks and consignment pieces to keep the local artists thriving Ravenshoe Quilters Display. Fantastic display of handcrafted qu embroidery...Raffle of an astounding creation for charity

WOOD CHOPS Sponsored by The Club Hotel, Jensen Chops start at 2pm;

Claire Whitehall.

Mataya Battistin

Jade Donahue

Amelia Payne and Amelia Rosset

Harli Wilkinson.

Macauly Ballin.

Grants open new doors for local groups

BY CHELSEA ASHMEADE

ALMOST $320,000 in grant funds will be shared among seven groups in the region.

Among the recipients of the Gambling Community Benefit Fund’s Super Round is the Chillagoe Bushman’s Carnival Association which will receive $100,000 to upgrade its grounds, allowing it to host many more events in the town..

Association secretary Kate Costin said she “just about fell off the chair when the call came through”.

“I actually couldn’t believe it. It’s huge for the community,” she said.

“The money it will bring into the town is massive.”

Ms Costin is one of four committee members who have the vision to increase the opportunity for more events at Chillagoe.

The grant will allow the committee to extend the bar and seating area, upgrade the current cold room, build a new undercover eating area, upgrade the stock yards, install more water taps throughout the campground and construct a camp draft arena.

“We are all currently in shock and cannot believe how lucky we are to have been successful in our application for the grant,” Ms Costin said.

“The opportunities that will arise from all the upgrades and new facilities will allow the CBCA the chance to host a greater number of events throughout the year.

“We are grateful to everyone who supported us in our application and look forward to unveiling the new facilities.”

It is anticipated the majority of the work will be completed before the next rodeo in May 2024.

In Atherton, Better Together will receive a $62,521 grant to purchase a cold food truck to support the Helpful Hearts Pantry Community Group.

Better Together spokesperson Jennifer Cox said the organisation was excited about receiving the grant and couldn’t wait to keep making a difference across the region.

At present, the group uses multiple eskies and fridges to safely transport food.

“The truck will allow us to get it (food) to people fresher and collect it in a better way to help us collect overstocked food for our community pantry,” she said.

The Helpful Hearts Pantry is open Wednesdays in Atherton and allows consumers to pick up food at a fraction of the cost, saving it from landfill.

“Having a truck will be much easier,” she said.

In Mareeba, the Golf Club will receive a grant of $90,721 to upgrade the clubhouse roof – a space the group looks forward to using once more.

Club president Owen Harvey said they were “pretty rapt” to receive the money.

The club will use the money to reroof the clubhouse which has a number

of leaks in it.

“I wasn’t hopeful, but then elated when we got the phone call,” Mr Harvey said.

“The last wet season was pretty rough on the club.”

It’s been about two years since the clubhouse was properly used. The club has worked hard to get it back to a useable state and the re-roofing will make it all the more comfortable after each golf day.

Another committee excited by their grant receival is the Tree Kangaroo and Mammals Group.

To support a project in tracking koala movements in the Tablelands area, the group will receive $34,200 for bioacoustic monitoring equipment.

Headed by Amy Shima and Roger Martin, the project is the first of its kind in the region.

While they’re not easily seen, Ms Shima said there were definite signs of koalas in the Tablelands.

“It will give us the ability through technology to locate and track animals over greater distances to monitor their behaviour and distance travelled. We will be much better able to study the population up here,” she said. They were already tracking one

Funds support lee Cheu family

A GoFundMe has been created by a local family, following the sudden death of a 13-year-old Atherton student last week.

Corrine lee Cheu, more affectionately known as Kinny, passed away last week, shocking the Atherton community.

All funds raised from the page will go towards supporting Kinny’s family and Suicide Prevention Australia.

To donate, visit https://gofund. me/bd9f7f9d

koala and were intrigued with its movements and behaviour. One particular night they were able to track its movements, which saw it wander about 1km looking for a female.

“This animal was showing cryptic behaviour,” she said, adding that it was this behaviour they hoped to be able to gather and analyse data for but on a broader scale.

Ms Shima said it was hoped one day this data would be collected by a PhD student.

“This grant was really, really good because the technology is now available but you have to be able to afford it and that’s what the grant money is for,” she said.

“It’s really interesting. We think of tree kangaroos up here but koalas hold a special place in everybody’s heart. It’s pretty special to have koalas in the area.”

Other grant recipients include Mareeba Meals on Wheels - $12,214 for a dishwasher; Mareeba and District Pony Club - $4400 for an arena drag; Ravenshoe Memorial Bowls Club - $16,328 to purchase equipment.

The Mareeba and Atherton groups are seven of more than 450 recipients during this round of funding.

If you or anyone you know is struggling, please contact Lifeline on 1311 14 or visit Headspace www.headspace.org. au. Visit Beyond Blue at www.beyondblue.org.au

Fun community event at Tinaroo

TABLELAND Community Link is set to host a Colour Walk and RollA-Thon event this Saturday, 23 September, from 9am to 12noon at Tinaroo's foreshore.

The event will feature a Colour Walk, with adults contributing $10 for entry, children aged 4-16 at $5, and infants under 4 entering for free. The fundraiser aims to support 'The Grove' Tableland Community Link's Activities Centre.

Participants can also look forward to exploring mini markets, engaging in a roll-a-thon, and experiencing mini Olympics.

A sausage sizzle and coffee will be available to satisfy appetites, and guests are encouraged to wear white attire and bring a chair or blanket for comfort.

Early registration is recommended, and tickets can be purchased through www.tclink.org.au/walkroll-a-thon-2023

A $62,000 grant will assist Better Together to purchase a cold food truck to support its popular Helpful Hearts Pantry Community Group.

Volunteers Wanted

The Kuranda Visitor Information Centre is now recruiting for our award-winning volunteer team.

The Kuranda Village is buzzing with record numbers of visitors going to this amazing destination.

The Kuranda Visitor Information Centre is urgently seeking volunteers to join a great team of passionate locals, ready and eager to give advice to visitors about Kuranda and the surrounding region.

Volunteering is all about making a difference in your community; it also offers the chance to make new friends, enjoy new social and cultural experiences, challenge yourself to do something new and have fun!

Please email kurandavic@msc.qld.gov.au or drop in between 10am - 3pm to pick up an application form.

ST JOSEPH'S SCHOOL CELEBRATES 100 YEARS

Tuesday 12-17 September

Mrs Saunders and Thomas. Pearl and Lily.

Mrs McGee, Mrs Lawrence, Mrs Bauer and Mr Mottin.

Patricia Struber (oldest student 1942-1947) and her great grandson Will Henry who is a current student at the school.

Youngest student Naomi Jue Sue.

St Joseph’s principal Rita Petersen on Sunday.

Presley at the school on Tuesday.

Missing family plaque replaced

A COMMEMORATIVE family plaque recognising one of Mareeba’s most well-known families that went missing, has been replaced after efforts from the family.

On the banks of Emerald Creek on the Mareeba side of the Emerald Creek bridge lies a monument recognising the first pioneers to the area, including the Srhoj family.

These pioneers were proud to call Australia home. Those that came to Emerald Creek and surrounding land were immigrants from many countries across the world.

As the pioneer plaque states “these families worked hard to make Emerald Creek the thriving area it is today”.

One family, the Srhoj family,

descendants of Emerald Creek pioneers hold family reunions every five years with relatives coming from all over Australia, New Zealand and Croatia.

At one such reunion held in Mareeba in 2006, a commemorative plaque was mounted under the pioneer plaque to honour the first Srhoj pioneers to the area – brothers Filip and Vlado Srhoj and their wives Sarah and Lina.

Mysteriously, years later the family plaque went missing. But recently brothers Max and Stephen Srhoj with their cousin Tito, all children of the first pioneers, got a new plaque made honouring the names of their fathers and mothers and mounted it back onto the monument.

The all new state-of-the-art allied health hub in Cairns

TOLGA MUSUEM 30 YEAR CELEBRATION

Sunday 17 September

Max, Tito and Stephen Srhoj at the Emerald Creek pioneer monument where they replaced the Srhoj family commemorative plaque.

Station Master David Plume.

Helen Fuller and Wendy Geddes dressed in period costume for the day.

Nicole and Hannah Smith.

Rob Fuller and Dick Daley at the Sunday celebration.

Ceberano brings sweet sounds to music festival

BY ELLIE FINK

THE ARTIST who paved the way for Australian women in the music industry is set to take centre stage at Savannah in the Round in two weeks, promising a line-up of feel-good jazz-pop.

Kate Ceberano has been described by her fans as an “icon, legend, phenomenon, beacon, hero and a star”, and one of the most highly anticipated headliners on the Savannah stage.

Her hit singles Bedroom Eyes, Pash and Everything’s Alright have become staples in many Australian households, with Ceberano defining the jazz-pop era of the late '80s and '90s.

This isn’t her first time in the region, travelling through the Far North many times before for gigs, finding her love for the tropics.

She hopes to be “bombarded” by the sun while connecting with Mareeba’s culture and land, exploring every corner she can in her time here.

“I’ll be coming up from Victoria to Savannah, and you know, I take every opportunity to get out in the sun,” she said.

“My heritage is Hawaiian as well, so I feel like, genetically, parts of me turn on in the heat like the colour in the pigment of my skin, and even after a couple of days, I start to get my warm tan skin back – it’s amazing.”

Getting excited to play among some of the biggest names in the industry, Ceberano is looking forward to watching some of her closest friends perform.

Recently playing at a festival alongside Savannah headliner Jimmy Barnes and working alongside the Black Sorrows, Dom Walker, Fanny Lumsden and Ian Moss, she is no stranger to the star studded lineup.

Out of all the headliners, she is particularly looking forward to meeting up with Kasey Chambers – a

woman who she believes “sets the world on fire”.

When she is not performing, she hopes to follow Chambers around Kerribee Park to discover the local foods, arts and clothing that will be on display.

“I think the two of us share something in common, and that’s that we really love people, and we love live performing,” she said.

“You only have to put us on the stage, and it’s like reactionary in our DNA. We go straight into the whole scene.

“We are built for entertaining … she is everything you see in her from the core.

“I am the girl who stands side stage and watches all the bands, and I go out front, I hang out with people and go and eat all the local food, and I try to find a souvenir to take home with me.

“I’m a bowerbird, I just want to collect and piece together all the parts of my life and where I have been and what I have seen.”

Ceberano is set to play on Saturday and bring the “sunset mood” to the final night of headliners, playing some of her own hits and covers of her idols.

She said during outdoor festivals she likes to pay tribute to the women who “raised her” in the industry and honour their work to bring women in music to the spotlight.

“I came from a generation of women in music who I have sadly had to say goodbye to over the past few years, and I like to dedicate a good part of my set to the women that raised me and music today,” she said.

“That is always something I look forward to, because people like Renee Geyer and Chrissy Amphlett were a massive influence on me and the industry and I became the musician and the woman I am today because I grew up with them.”

Savannah in the Round is set to kick off on 6 October at Kerribee Park, Mareeba. Tickets are available at www.savannahintheround.com.au

LETTERSto the editor

Questions raised about recycling waste

TWO articles in The Express (06/09/23) claim there’s a “need” to develop a “circular economy”, which has been widely accepted without adequate analysis.

It’s implicitly suggested that there’s a shortage of the materials in modern waste-streams and of ways to dispose of them, and that a failure to repurpose them will create some undefined future hardship.

However, when you closely examine these suggestions you find they lack a factual foundation.

If waste had inherent value we wouldn’t throw it out. We’d sell it to a willing buyer who would profit from reusing it, as we do with metals. That lack of inherent value says the materials are very easy to produce and that the raw materials aren’t scarce.

Household organic waste could be composted in every backyard with an investment of time. However, the value of the finished compost for most people is lower than the value of the time needed to make it – so they don’t.

Combustible waste such as cardboard and plastic has a significant energy content. It could be shredded, pre-heated, and burned in modern, exhaust-scrubbed incinerators to produce steam to drive turbines to generate cheap electricity that’s independent of the weather and time of day.

There’s a small market for recycled glass, but the energy input required to crush and transport it is significant. It’s inert, so it’s completely harmless when buried.

It’s claimed there’s a shortage of landfill sites, but if you’ve been outside the cities you know that’s rubbish. Look at the Mareeba and Springmount landfills on Google maps satellite view and zoom out – they’re specks in a vast landscape.

Leachates are no longer a problem in landfills because of advanced sealing technologies, which is how the Mareeba and Springmount sites gained approval.

Sending multiple fleets of trucks around the same routes to collect different types of waste and then paying people to sort through it at public expense when no defined market exists for it is blatant economic vandalism. If the current version of publicly-funded recycling was ever to pay its own way it would have done so years ago.

Those who believe the myth that carbon dioxide controls the climate must suffer emotional distress seeing the recycling trucks following the general waste trucks around.

If your mission was to destroy an economy so you could claim that capitalism has failed to introduce communism, then squandering the wealth capitalism creates on third-rate solutions to noncore problems is the first step in that process.

Intelligent non-communist state government leaders would have abandoned the current version of recycling years ago and adopted the alternatives outlined above. That they don’t says that the ALPLNP twins have been subverted by communists.

Peter Campion TOLGA

Memories and facts of local migrant stories

THE article by Ellie Fink “Life stories tell rich migrant history” (The Express, 09/09/23) is an elegant description of my recent book Emerald Creek: from Fagnano Castello to the Meeting of the Waters. The article highlights the essence of the book which is “the past is the story we tell ourselves” and suggests that the stories of the migrants from Fagnano Castello to Mareeba were collected over the past four decades.

In fact, the narratives were written from oral accounts all collected almost four decades ago, from 1985 to 1988. As the article points out, migration from Fagnano Castello (Italy) to Mareeba had ceased by the mid-1980s and it was decided to document the life stories of the very early migrants, who by then were of advanced age.

An important aspect of life stories obtained from oral accounts, and which is at the heart of “the stories we tell ourselves”, is how facts and memory recall are intermingled, probably influenced by a broad range of subconscious associations.

In Emerald Creek, this has been explained as

being part of the way people’s lives as migrants have been shaped by hearing stories told and retold by themselves and different people in different situations, or indeed by hopes and aspiration for themselves and their families.

For example, I always thought that the story of my father (Luigi Avolio) refusing to detonate mines during the war occurred when he was a prisoner of war in England. However, during the questions in his oral account it transpired that it happened in North Africa when he was serving in the Italian army before he became a prisoner of war.

When Eufemio Salamone was asked why his father (Salvatore Salamone) was not interned during the war, he said that he could not be interned as he was already an Australian citizen.

However, during the writing process, I found an announcement in the Adelaide Advertiser saying that Salvatore Salamone had taken out citizenship in 1949, after the end of the war. The narrative was left as told, and the correction was added as a footnote to indicate the factual discrepancy.

There are, however, factual corrections I wish to make here for the public record in the narrative of Maria Battiato regarding her daughter Jeanette.

In the final paragraph of her story, there is a sentence which reads: “Then Carmelo bought Jeanette’s part as she had to sell it because of her divorce.” This is not correct.

Jeanette has never been divorced. Another sentence reads: “She has been unlucky”. This is also not true since at the beginning of the paragraph Maria says “… the children have done quite well for themselves”. The last line “I think someone must have cast an awful spell on Jeanette” requires clarification. The dialect term for “awful spell” is “magaria”.

This is a common term used in many circumstances, especially by those of the early migrant generation from Fagnano Castello.

My own mother would frequently say that someone had cast a “magaria” on me when I would fall sick soon after I had received good grades at school. The implication being that one does well despite the “magaria”.

These sentences will be corrected, deleted or clarified in footnotes in the subsequent edition of Emerald Creek which will be uploaded to the Amazon book platform.

Alberto Avolio SYDNEY

Residents want to retain “quiet area”

REGARDING the “bizarre” Hemmings Lane Tourist Park, we would like to extend many thanks and appreciation to the councillors who did not support Old Mates Farm (OMF) application of expansion – Deputy Mayor Cr Cardew and Crs Hodge, Wilce and Clifton.

In the beginning, OMF was small and conservative, not much traffic and we did not have a problem.

It quickly became a recreational weekend away for a LOT of people, boasting well and truly above their quota of 12 people. For us, the residents of Hemmings Lane, it was a “day in day out” situation of cars, caravans, camper trailers etc coming and going all the time, we didn’t get to “go home”, after we were home.

We bought on this lane to raise our young family in a quiet area, for them to be able to do similar things we did as kids living rurally.

If we wanted to live next door to a Tourist Park and the traffic you would see in a town setting, we would have bought in such a place.

The only “Bizarre” thing about the councillor’s decision not in support of you, is that they were courteous enough to allow you to be labelled a Tourist Park and operate within the perimeter of your property (all of which you had already been doing anyway) and use all the facilities you have put in whilst not being approved to use such facilities.

Why would you need a manager residence, kiosk etc for 12 people, they should have shut you down completely.

Tony and Louise, you were so very confident for your application, pending approval, that you published articles in numerous media outlets “OMF is currently closed undertaking maintenance whilst a development application is in progress with the TRC, we expect to be open again later this year”.

What makes you so cocky that you feel the ratepayers will be footing your legal cost?

As was clearly demonstrated at the decision meeting, it could well be you, Tony and Louise, footing the TRC and ratepayers’ bill. For if you abided by the rules set out in your first application, you would not be in this situation in the first place.

The saga continues at Old Mates Farm

WE would like to take this opportunity to thank our Crs Cardew, Hodge, Wilce, and Clifton for using common sense and going the extra mile in investigating the valid concerns raised by Hemmings Lane residents and the surrounding agricultural properties.

As a family who has been deeply affected by this decision, we cannot express our gratitude enough.

As a refresher for the public, Tony Freeman and Lou Livingstone of Old Mates Farm have been operating in violation of council regulations since 2017.

They built infrastructure without council approval and continuously breached the conditions of their original submission, in which they were approved for a maximum of five campsites and an average of 12 people.

I’m not sure what makes Tony and Lou think they are above the same restrictions every other business in the region must abide by?

As for Tony and Lou’s remark about rate payers footing their legal bills, they have only themselves to blame. They have put the cart before the horse and can’t expect others to foot the bill to their mistakes.

Perhaps they should have got approval from the TRC before they undertook illegal developments.

Tony and Lou’s claims that their new proposal would have no impact on their neighbours must be a joke … I think it’s safe to say anyone regardless of address would be affected if a giant tourist park decided to open next door to them.

We are not just affected by the complete unsuitability of our road to such a venture and the safety aspect, it’s our privacy, our lands future valuation, biosecurity risks, the impact to local wildlife and most importantly it’s our way of life that will be affected.

John, Janelle, and Jessica Beattie UPPER BARRON

Ratepayers pay for road maintenance

IN reply to TRC comments on Page 9 (The Express 23/08/23), “Property owner fights for gravel on road”. In the interest of full and open disclosure, I to also have issues with TRC road Infrastructure.

Firstly, may I comment on the ridiculous hypocrisy and arrogance of council when they shrug their shoulders/throw their hands up in resignation and declare a road being not worthy of receiving any annual maintenance with “council has no obligation to provide additional or improved road”, yet in the next breath state “a resident can apply to upgrade TRC road infrastructure at their cost under an operational work permit. This work permit must be applied for and approved.”

Seriously, are you responsible for the road maintenance or not? Apparently in your mediocracy you see your responsibility covered by a bet each way or as suffice pro-activity to place money on both colours of a roulette wheel.

Secondly, Mr Vis, we ratepayers care not for your inadequate attempt at bureaucratic spin, being “council determines its level of service for roads via a star rating system…… to establish the desired standard of each road in the shire”.

Ratepayers are concerned with the bang for buck we receive for the funds/rates we provide you. It’s a case of quid pro quo….. We give you something and you reciprocate in like in return.

Thirdly, Mr Vis and TRC, council is cognisant of the fact that they control and give approval thru the sub- division process for the creation of new allotments of land. This process does not diminish/extinguish your responsibility re: “council has no obligation to provide additional or improved road.”

This authority vested in you within this process makes you directly/squarely and solely responsible. Do not embarrass yourself or insult the intelligence of ratepayers by delivering this nonsense and dribble.

New parcels of land after subdivision generate rates “revenue” for council. I expect Mr MacLeod and myself are not Robinson Crusoe within the shire who share the honour of being short changed by the standard of road infrastructure you lack to provide.

TRC dismal management and ownership of this public duty has the smell of laziness. If as a council you cannot deliver road maintenance to a reasonable standard then do not approve the new subdivision.

A simple concept, so get with the program.

To line council’s pockets with rates monies for which you have nil intent of providing any reciprocating service is akin to theft, much in the vein of Qantas and Mr Joyce.

In a previous private letter to Mr Vis/Council, I stated the fact that if they continue to manage council roads in the manner of the past 30-50 years (by only applying funding to roads flagged by their star rating system) they can expect similar results as this the end game of their promotion.

Hence, some ratepayers get nil reciprocating road infrastructure service yet subsidise the greater council populous. This is far from fair and equitable and just not acceptable.

So, Mr MacLeod and the previous owner Ms Metcalfe have paid rates for say 30 odd years (at $2000/year equals a total of $60,000 to council), yet he still has substandard access to property. Have they not covered your $35,000 for the construction of a basic road and $1500 a year for maintenance?

Again this raises the questions asked by Mr MacLeod re-Operational Work Permits, “is this legal and how long has it being going on?”

Surely this is seen for what it is, a blatant case of double dipping by council.

A snapshot of the road standard you provide is visible along Marnane Road, Rangeview. There are two dips – seasonal creek crossings in the road which are suitable for single lane traffic flow only.

Negligently you fail to provide Give Way signs to control safe negotiation of the dips should vehicles approach from opposing directions at the same instance.

The accountability lies on council’s doorstep. If you cannot provide a product which meets the standards required, please exit stage left.

I expect and hope at the next council elections TRC ratepayers repay your efforts via quid pro quo.

John Venturato TOLGA

ATHERTON ANNUALS

Hundreds of racegoers tunred out to the Atherton Turf Club on Saturday 16 September for a day of racing and fashion.

Tablelands business awards close soon

NOMINATIONS are now open for the Tablelands Business Excellence Awards which aim to showcase the region’s outstanding business operators and notfor-profit entities.

Last year, 78 businesses were nominated, with 122 nominations received in total.

“These awards celebrate the business community’s significant contribution to our region,” Mayor Rod Marti said.

“Our strong economic growth is continuing with new investment and new jobs being created.

“This is your chance to nominate a stand-out local business or organisation, and we also encourage you to nominate your own business so you can promote your success.”

Nominations are being accepted across six categories –Customer Service Excellence, Technology and Innovation Impact, Visual Stand-out Business, Employer of Choice, Sustainability Contribution and New and Emerging Business or Service.

Nominations are open until 12 noon Friday 22 September and everyone will have a chance to vote for their favourite business in the People’s Choice Award between 12 noon on Monday 25 September and 9am on Tuesday 3 October.

The awards will be presented at the Business Excellence Awards Ceremony on Thursday 5 October at the Atherton International Club.

For more information and to make a nomination visit, www. trc.qld.gov.au/business-excellence-awards.

Dannielle and Noah Atkinson.

Sophie Kirkham looking stunning on the

Georgia, Grace, Emily

Taylah Wells and Natalie Jones.

Bailey Wilce and Alyse McRobb.

Colby Pezzelato and Nahalya MacDonald.

Heather and Michelle.

Sarah Scully, Summer Cahill, Bella Trentin.

Ways to cut costs around the home this summer

SUMMER is coming – and by all accounts, it will be a hot and dry one, so it’s the perfect time to consider how you can save money at home during the warm months to come.

One of the key areas to look at is your home energy usage and how you can cut this down in the hot months where air-conditioning is critical and pretty much used every day.

Firstly, insulation can really make a difference – both for summer heat and for the cold of winter.

In-wall or in-roof insulation can lessen heat by up to 35 per cent but it also helps to shut doors in the house and concentrate cooling in one room, usually the living room.

Closing the blinds or curtains can also keep heat at bay and planting trees that

will partially shade your home is also helpful.

Homeowners can also consider adding roof cavity ventilation such as “whirlybirds” to remove some of the hot air that gets trapped in your roof area.

Using a timer on your air conditioner can also be a cost-saving because you can activate the unit only during those periods when opening windows and trapping cool air doesn’t help.

For better efficiency from your air conditioner, set your air conditioner to no more than 24 degrees celsius. Each degree cooler can add about 10 per cent to your air conditioner's running cost.

Cleaning your air conditioner at least twice during summer is also vital to keep costs down and efficiency at its maximum. An air conditioner clogged with dust and grime can take up to 15 per cent more energy to power the unit.

Ceiling fans can also assist to circulate air even though they don’t lower the room temperature. Pedestal fans are the least effective option but are very cheap to run, costing about $30 to run a fan for an entire summer.

To cut down the heat in your home, use your oven as little as possible during sum-

mer. Not only does your oven use a lot of energy to heat up, it makes your house hotter, which means the air conditioner has to work harder.

Try using other cooking devices that don’t generate external heat when you can – microwaves, a toaster oven or an air fryer. Of course, the outside barbecue is an even better choice.

If you really want to make a difference and have some money to spend, putting in double glazed windows can make a big difference, and if your house is painted a dark colour, consider re-painting it in a lighter tone.

There are heaps of other ways you can save a few dollars this summer.

• Check the temperature on your hot water system. In summer, you can adjust it so it’s not as hot as you would need in winter, .

• Don't buy bottled water because it gets expensive fast. Settle for a water filter pitcher so you can use tap water.

• Run full loads of laundry. Pack your washer to capacity,

because you're going to use the same amount of water either way.

• Wash with cold water. Unless you have serious stains or odours you're trying to remove, most clothes can wash in the cold cycle without issue.

• Hang-dry your clothes on the outside clothes line or inside a garage or in the laundry itself. Clothes dryers really eat up energy and because we know while we’re at work, it will probably rain, hang them in a closed room (to shut out the humidity) and just leave the ceiling fan on.

• Open your windows when you can to let natural airflow do its thing.

• Turn off the lights you’re not using. This not only saves energy but also means those pesky insects that come in swarms in summer (moths and the like) will not be attracted inside.

• Turn off appliances when you’re not using them. Household appliances that use the most standby power include the clothes dryer, aircon and microwave.

RECIPE OF THE MONTH: Spinach and Pumpkin Salad

This salad has a healthy dose of spinach, tomatoes and pumpkin. It also looks amazing on the plate with all the bright colours – very much like spring! It is easy to make and can be made ahead of time.

INGREDIENTS

⅓ medium pumpkin, cut into 2cm pieces

1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

1 cup sunflower seeds and pumpkin seeds

1 tablespoon soy sauce, salt reduced

6 cups baby spinach

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

100g feta, cut into 1 cm pieces

METHOD

Preheat oven to 200°C.

Line baking dish with baking paper. Drizzle pumpkin with oil and bake in oven for 30 minutes or until golden. Allow to cool. Heat frypan over medium heat and dry roast seeds for approximately 10 minutes until golden. Sprinkle soy sauce over seeds while hot and stir well. Set aside to cool. Assemble baby spinach, cherry tomatoes and pumpkin on a serving dish. Sprinkle over feta and seeds.

Best of bull riding returns to Malanda

WITH a $10,000 prize for the night’s main event, top riders will battle it out at this year’s The Big Pub Malanda Bull Ride on Saturday 7 October.

The action and rivalry kicks off at the Malanda Showgrounds at 4pm (gates open at 3pm), and includes a variety of events leading up to the $10,000 Fahlstrom Scaffold Open Bull Ride.

The introduction of a new feature event, Butchers vs Bullocks, is also expected to ramp up the competition at the 2023 show.

This is an invitation only event where butchers from across North Queensland go head-to-head with the bullocks.

Spectators can expect around six hours of competition and entertainment, from the calf rides, bullock rides and novice bull rides in the afternoon to the mini bull, junior and open rides in the evening.

Those attending won’t miss any of the action, watching all the rides close-

up on the big screen and after the competition can party on into the night with live band Dr Elephant.

Leading up to the main event on Saturday afternoon and evening, celebrations will begin on Thursday 5 October at The Big Pub with the Open Bull Ride draw, a Calcutta auction and the chance to meet some of the bull riders.

The Calcutta auction involves auctioning the cowboys, where the elite Open Bull Riders will be split into teams and each team will be auctioned to participants who attend the Calcutta.

On Saturday, the highest aggregated points will be deemed the winning team and whoever purchased that team will win 60% of the auction pool of money, with the second place taking home the 40%.

Tickets are available online from Try Booking or from Pure Country in Malanda, with more information on Facebook.

Chamber music festival to feature five concerts

Holiday movies on offer

BEFORE these holidays end, make the most of the great movies showing at the historical Majestic Theatre and the magical experience it offers.

New this week is the dramatic family comedy Haunted Mansion with a great cast including Rosario Dawson, Owen Wilson, Danny De Vito, and Jamie Lee Curtis. It’s great for all ages.

The animated, action-adventure Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem and continues for another spectacular week.

The crime action biography Sound Of Freedom will show once again this Saturday and the following Wednesday. All session are available www.majestictheatre.com.au

THE Atherton Tablelands Chamber Music Festival is on again this year and will feature five concerts.

To be held on 22-24 September, the event is an artist-led festival directed by violinist Khalida De Ridder and Danish classical guitarist Simon Thielke.

The two musicians freelance around the globe and share a common goal to make regional Far North Queensland thrive with live music.

Khalida said she and Simon began a series of concerts in Atherton back in 2016.

“We studied together at the Royal Danish Academy of Music and despite having vastly different upbringings (Simon in a European city, myself in the Australian bush) we found we were very much on the same page in wanting the Arts to be accessible to all people,” she said.

The 2023 festival takes place this weekend at St Joseph’s Catholic Church and the Atherton Performing Arts Theatre.

There will be five concerts featuring local,

interstate and internationally acclaimed musicians including Katie Miller-Crispe (Sydney), festival String Quartet, the NQ Chamber Orchestra and local talent Jean Plushke closing the festival with a piano recital.

On Sunday morning and before the closing concert, there will be a ‘Developing and Sustaining Professional Arts Practice in Regional Australia’ public forum/workshop, supported by Tablelands Regional Council Regional Arts Development Fund.

There is also a chance to meet and talk with Paul Kludsky, a local violin luthier about to make international waves with his craftsmanship. He is one of the first luthiers of significance to research and use Australian timbers to create professional grade instruments.

Sessional tickets are available at Uptown Music in Atherton, online via trybooking.com or at the door (unless sold out prior) with a very limited number of Festival Passes also available.

For details check the website www.athertoncmf.com

Local violin luthier Paul Kludsky will be at the Atherton Tablelands Chamber Music Festival this weekend.

ON LANDthe

MAREEBA SALES SUMMARY

12 September, 2023

▪ Total yarding 541 head with no Open Auctions sales this week

▪ Yard averaged 139.92c/kg to return an average of $487.66/head

▪ 119 Bulls averaged 119.4c/kg selling to a top of 232.2c/kg

▪ 170 Cows averaged 149.3c/kg selling to a top of 178.2c/kg

▪ 129 Steers averaged 169.3c/kg selling to a top of 250.0c/kg

▪ 63 Heifers averaged 129.6c/kg selling to a top of 170.2c/kg

▪ 16 Yearling bulls averaged 128.8c/kg selling to a top of 170.2c/kg

▪ 33 Yearling heifers averaged 127.7c/kg selling to a top of 152.2c/kg

33 Yearling heifers averaged 127.7c/kg selling to a

▪ 11 Yearling steers averaged 162.7c/kg selling to a top of 200.2c/kg

PICTURED: Butcher heifer a/c A & M Booth @ 164.2c/kg 455kg

SUGAR REPORT

2024 AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award applications now open

APPLICATIONS are open now for the 2024 AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award.

The Rural Women’s Award supports Australian women to use and develop their skills to benefit their industries and communities.

The AgriFutures Australia Rural Women’s Acceleration Grant is open to provide professional development support to rural women to bring their idea, cause or vision to life.

Last week, Pet Treats entrepreneur EmmaLouise Gibbons – this year’s Queensland Rural Woman Award winner – represented Queensland at the national Rural Women’s Award gala event in Canberra.

Victorian tech entrepreneur and innovator Nikki Davey was announced as this year’s national winner.

The award is designed to empower and celebrate inclusive and courageous leadership by women involved in Australia’s rural and emerging industries, businesses and communities.

It provides a platform to inspire and support Australian women to use and develop their skills to benefit their industries and communities.

Minister for Agricultural Industry Development and Fisheries and Minister for Rural Communities Mark Furner encouraged Queenslanders to enter the awards.

“These awards are a fitting tribute to the many women providing leadership and inspiration

across our rural communities,” he said.

“Our Queensland finalist, Emma-Louise Gibbons, is a fine example of what is being achieved by so many women in the agriculture sector right across our state.

“I encourage Queensland women in agriculture and other rural industries to have a look at the inspiring stories of our previous winners and consider putting their hands up for next year’s awards.”

Westpac has been a platinum sponsor of the Rural Women’s Awards for more than 15 years. The Queensland winner of the Rural Women’s Award will receive a $15,000 grant to further their work and represent Queensland at the national awards where they have the chance to win an additional $20,000 grant.

Queensland’s new state sponsor, the Queensland Country Women’s Association, will provide a $2,000 grant to Queensland’s finalists.

In addition to the Rural Women’s Awards, AgriFutures Australia offer the Rural Women’s Acceleration Grant as a leadership and development opportunity for rural women who feel they are not quite ready to apply for the award.

The Rural Women’s Acceleration Grant provides a bursary of up to $7,000 for professional development, driving innovation in rural industries, businesses and communities. Applications will close on Wednesday, 25 October 2023.

ON LANDthe

Cassava grows in popularity

BY BRIGITTE DALEY

ONE of the most versatile crops known to man is rapidly gaining popularity on the Tablelands.

Tablelands Regen Hub coowner Jane Hawes said she initially chose to plant cassava five years ago on the family property located at Tolga.

Now, the whole farm has a large proportion of cassava growing on it in a polyculture system which mimics the diversity of natural ecosystems as opposed to a monoculture one.

“It is a highly efficient plant in terms of the sheer value of production that can be obtained from it in relation to the amount of area which it occupies, far surpassing wheat,” Jane said.

“Cassava also works really well with fungal interactions within the soil and balances soil microbes and pathogen levels.

“It works really well with the soil and is an extremely beneficial plant to the soil.

“Cassava releases carbohydrates into the soil which feed soil microbes.”

Jane and her husband Neil and daughter Racquel are one of the very few commercial growers of cassava on the Tablelands.

Cassava is a major multicultural staple in the developing world, providing a basic diet for more than half a billion people. It is the third largest source of food carbohydrates in the tropics, after rice and maize.

The Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) conducted research on a monoculture stand of cassava in Dimbulah around 2017.

It was a very unique variety according to Australian owned cassava flour supplier, Three Spades, located in Brisbane.

There is a growing market on the Tablelands for cassava roots which are sold fresh. They are in demand from people who come from overseas and are working on the Tablelands.

Having incredible regenera-

tive properties, cassava is an excellent resource for landowners interested in regenerative and multi-use plant species

Being economical to cultivate, it is planted by way of “sticks” which are vegetative sections of the plant.

“From planting to harvesting can take from eight to 12 months in warmer zones and over 12 months in colder zones,” Jane said.

“It is one of the most drought tolerant crops available, can grow on marginal soils and requires a minimal amount of fertiliser to be grown.

“Cassava is one of the most resilient plants out there and is also very resilient to pests and diseases, so much so that after processing into flour, weevils will not be attracted to it or be able to live in cassava flour.

“The flour is not affected by weevils in any way and can last for up to 10 years.”

There are white and yellow fleshed varieties of the plant, with the yellow fleshed variety being the sweet form of cassava.

An extremely versatile plant, cassava is used for food, animal feed and industrial purposes. In many countries, significant

research has begun to evaluate the use of cassava as an ethanol biofuel feedstock.

The starch made from cassava is called tapioca and alcoholic beverages can be made from it as well. It can even be used as a natural insecticide.

Tablelands Regen Hub recently hosted a highly successful “Cassava Demo Day” for people interested in learning about the planting, harvesting, processing and cooking of cassava.

A particular highlight of the day was the showcasing of cassava cookery by chefs as applied in their own cultures.

“We wish to educate and inspire the community about the benefits of cassava,” Jane said.

Cassava can be cooked in many ways. The root of the sweet variety has a delicate flavour and can replace potatoes. It can be made into flour that is used in breads, cakes and biscuits.

Tablelands Regen Hub is investigating the possibility of cassava roots produced on their property being processed into flour by a southern processor.

Cassava must be cooked properly to detoxify it before it is eaten. People need to be mindful of this fact and apply the same principle to cassava as they would to rhubarb and green potatoes.

Raw cassava contains chemicals called cyanogenic glycosides. If eaten, these can release cyanide into the body.

Cassava is highly prized for being gluten free and high in fibre, being particularly high in resistant starch.

It is known to promote digestive and metabolic health, reduce inflammation and also reduce the risk of obesity and Type 2 diabetes.

The leaves, as well as the roots can be eaten, and a tea can be made from the leaves which has proved to be of benefit to men suffering from prostate conditions.

White-fleshed cassava roots which are sold fresh.

Jane Hawes of Tablelands Regen Hub with some cassava delights.

FOOD FOR FUTURE GENERATIONS: Jane’s grandchildren Alessia 2 and Astrid 5 in front of cassava.

SMOKEY BLUE ‘23

Fundraising car rally across the Tablelands on Saturday 16 September in support of moyamoya Australia

Crime is everyone’s business in your community

CRIME may not pay…. But it is everyone’s business. This well-known saying resonates well in relation to criminal activity and how we, as a community, deal with it.

If we stand by and watch criminals committing offences and do nothing to deter them, it sends a message that our community tolerates that behaviour.

If we don’t share crucial information and sit idly by as we watch the police patrolling our streets and trying to solve or even better stop serious crimes impacting on us, we are missing an opportunity to stand up and make a difference to how our communities develop.

There is a lot of talk about the “Ice epidemic” and when a serious crime happens, people discuss that crime and speculate about who did what.

Police would like to remind everyone that you may be that person who has that small piece of information that allows police to solve that crime or stop that drug dealer selling drugs to our kids.

By standing up and assisting police (remember you can do this confidentially), you are sending a message that you don’t tolerate this type of behaviour in your community and you are willing to take steps to stop it.

Crimestoppers is completely confidential, any and all information will be provided to police and no identities will ever be divulged.

If criminals choose to continue, we need your help to identify them, and stop them. Take control of the community you live in.

So, if you have seen anything, be it large or small, let the police know.

You can contact your local police, or Policelink on 13 1444 or if you wish to remain anonymous call Crimestoppers 1800 333 000.

But most of all, do something, and be part of the solution.

The Jellyfish – Robyn and Nadine.

Loretta and Kezza stopped at Smooth Nutrition for a refreshment.

The Blue Ringed Octopussies on the road.

Octoberfest – the Blue Belles.

Up in Smoke-y – Zahra and Caitlyn Jawai out the front of The Express on Saturday.

PROPERTY

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

22 Main Street, Atherton

Phone: 4091 7111

Atherton

RARE OPPORTUNITY | 4240 Gillies Range Road, Yungaburra

Great for Grazing or Potential Subdivision

• Set on 36.52ha* across 2 titles minutes from Yungaburra Village

• Lot 1: 19.32ha*, Lot 2: 17.20ha*

• Panoramic views of Lake Tinaroo and surrounds

• 3 accesses via Ash St, Eacham Rd and Gillies Range Rd

• Queenslander style home - renovator’s dream

• Option to purchase 1 or both lots

• Improved pastures and gently undulating

Morgan Brennan 0407 730 450

Expressions of Interest close TODAY 20th September. Offers must be submitted by date & time of closure.

L23825996

ACREAGE CLOSE TO TOWN!

Carrington

• Set on 5 acres close to town

VILLAGE LIVING

Yungaburra

• 3 bedrooms with built-ins

• Main with walk-in robe and ensuite

• Open plan, light and airy

• 2 sheds with power

• Lovely entertaining deck

• In the heart of the village

Offers Over $600,000L24127556

Suzey Whitby0438 090 306

Margaret Black: Principal www.raywhiteruralatherton.com.au

Breathtaking rural views

Yungaburra is one of the fastest growing communities on the Tablelands, with people coming for a weekend and never wanting to leave.

Famous for its ideal climate, relaxed village vibes, flower lined streets, bustling markets, cute cafes, and convenient access to Lake Tinaroo there really is something for everyone!

Elevated in Yungaburra, Lakeview Heights is where nature's beauty meets the comforts of modern living.

Nestled in the heart of this picturesque village, this newest stage of Lakeview Heights offers generous size lots with minimal building restrictions providing the ideal opportunity to build your dream home or weekender.

Lakeview Heights has always been a sought after address’ due to its elevation, close proximity to the village and Tinaburra Boat Ramp.

This new land release includes 15 new lots ranging in size from 815m2 to 1758m2 and prices ranging from $240,000$290,000.

It is time to soak up the country fresh air, contact Land Manager Michelle Raso on 0428 116 136 for more information or to stake your claim.

Address:

Price:

Agent:

Contact:

Lake View Heights, YUNGABURRA

Contact Agent Michelle Raso

Elders Real Estate Tablelands 0428 116 136

Elevated in Yungaburra, Lakeview Heights is where nature’s beauty meets the comforts of modern living in one of the fastest growing communities...

Raising the benchmark

AN opportunity now exists to acquire the ultimate in small acreage living with this exceptional family home.

Offering an impressive list of inclusions it’s very well appointed and immaculately maintained with an expansive 295m2 floorplan and the following beneficial features:

• Fully split system airconditioned with 4 generous bedrooms & multiple living areas

• Gorgeous Coastal styling with elegant gold fittings, feature panelled walls, high ceilings with square set cornice and quality fixtures throughout

• Grand entryway with garden outlook + stunning raked ceiling in the living area extending out to the patio

• Gourmet kitchen with stone bench tops, Bosch 900mm oven and cooktop plus LG dishwasher & adjoining butler’s pantry with in-built cabinetry and fridge space

• Stylish vinyl plank flooring in the living areas & carpeted bedrooms for warmth

• Built-in robes in the bedrooms + master with sizeable walk-in-robe & impressive ensuite

• Lounge/media room and closable 2nd living area/children’s play area adjacent to the living

• Main bathroom with separate plunge bath

• Built in cabinetry in the laundry + adjacent sizeable walk-in storage room

• Substantial rear patio overlooking the yard with 600mm tiles & built-in

speaker system

• Tinted windows, steel screens, blinds & window furnishings throughout

• 7m x 7m garage with 2k epoxy floor & built-in storage cupboard

• 900mm concrete pathway surrounds

• Security cameras

• 16m x 8m insulated colorbond shed with power, internet, 2 x roller door access, sliding glass pa door and separate gravelled driveway

• Hidden chook run behind the shed

• Fully fenced 4000m2 allotment with privacy colorbond fence and tree lined boundary plus automatic irrigation only 7 minutes to Mareeba cbd

Properties of this calibre with intricate thought and attention to floorplan and styling are hard to come by. Inspection is highly recommended – don’t delay!

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

WELCOME to this ultimate family home, perfectly positioned to offer fantastic views that will leave you in awe. Boasting ample space, this exceptional property is not only a dream for those seeking room to grow, but also conveniently located near schools and the heart of the township.

• Solid Double Storey

Home – Solid Timber

Address:

Price:

Agent:

Contact:

27 Phillips Avenue, ATHERTON Offers Invited EXCLUSIVE to Daimin Kochi Main St Real Estate 0448 916 246

• Paddocks, stables and ample water supply OFFERS IN THE $800,000s

Seeking lifestyle living?

HAVE you been searching for your perfect versatile lifestyle escape? Located at 65 Raleigh Road, Dimbulah this spacious 27.9 acre property boasts 2 dwellings, a large shed, a peaceful location and plenty of cleared land.

Like many others in the area, this property was once a lucrative tobacco farm, and is now a loved family home offering a lifestyle or hobby farming opportunity.

Situated within walking distance to the Dimbulah CBD and only a 30 minute drive to Mareeba CBD this great property offers a relaxed rural lifestyle with the convenience of town positioning.

The main dwelling is a great family home, made of concrete construction with three bedrooms, two of which has split-system airconditioning an office and one bathroom.

The kitchen is easily accessed from the dining room and living room and has the benefits of a dishwasher and split-system air-conditioning servicing the living and dining rooms as well.

There is a second dwelling on the property that could be renovated and rented out for an additional income, or used as an extra home for grandparents or teenagers.

Address:

Price:

Agent:

Contact:

The large shed completes the package, with a previous life as a tobacco shed, is 18m x 24m (approx.), powered and has plenty of room for machinery and storage.

There is plenty of flat, cleared land, providing plenty of opportunity to house horse and cattle, or start a hobby farm. At the rear of the property, neighbouring state land is the Walsh River.

Features include:

• 27.9 acre property

• Concrete construction home

• 3 bedroom, 1 bathroom home

• Kitchen, dining & large living room

• Air-conditioning in kitchen/dining & 2 bedrooms

• Large shed (18m x 24m approx.), powered

• Second dwelling

• Established gardens & mango trees

• Flat, cleared land

• Town water & septic

• Neighbouring the Walsh River

• Walking distance to Dimbulah CBD & 30 minutes to Mareeba CBD

To find out more or arrange a Private Inspection contact exclusive agent Vince Costas on 0419 926 691.

65 Raleigh Road, DIMBULAH

$700,000

EXCLUSIVE to Vince Costas Central Realty 0419 926 691 or 4092 2232

SAVANNAH GEM

3 Brooklands Road, Mt Surprise

Make your dream of a tree change come true.

· 3/4 acre, fully fenced, shady block with established gardens

· 2 bedroom home

· 3 sheds, two are new builds

· Fully self contained train carriage

· Walking distance to shops, bus stop and Elizabeth Creek

Offers over $200,000

Ph: 0457 679 018

https://bit.ly/3BrooklandsRdMtSurprise

A great location for an enviable lifestyle

NORMALLY you are expected to choose, to weigh up the pros and cons. Town or rural.

No need to choose as this property with an expansive home offers 5,000sqm of gently sloping land 2.4km from the Atherton Post Office.

The modern home is tiled throughout for easy care and the spacious living area has a wood heater for winter warmth and the family room has space for a full size pool table.

There are four sizable bedrooms, the main bedroom has an ensuite and a spacious walk-in wardrobe.

For entertaining and outdoor living there are two patios.

No man shall be bored again as there is a 4 bay Colorbond shed ideal for the tradie or serious handyman.

Located in a quiet cul-de-sac of prestigious homes for you to enjoy all the benefits of town and country living.

To be sold by auction on Saturday, 7 October 2023, onsite at 11:00am.

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

AUCTION

Saturday 7 October

Unique lifestyle acreage in Tolga

DISCOVER what lies behind the stately stone walls and iron gate entrance.

Perfectly located on the Atherton Tablelands close to the popular village of Tolga, this 3-acre lifestyle retreat is ready to provide new owners with the opportunity to create an income producing venture or just enjoy your own private resort to call home.

The large and elegant 4/5-bedroom, 3 bathroom home provides ample space for everyone with numerous living spaces inside and out. The home also features a separate dwelling currently occupied by a tenant willing to stay on providing an instant income.

The energy-efficient home comes equipped with a 12KW Solar System with battery back-up and management system as well as a 6mg water license and bore.

Outside sets the scene for a truly relaxed resort style of living with an inground swimming pool, a wood-fired pizza oven, and an outdoor kitchen all sitting amongst a lovely tropical setting. Fruit

orchards consisting of 140 trees are well established and all have watering systems installed.

Three Sheds provide the necessary shelter and equipment required to manage your crop, with current owners leaving all the necessary farm-related implements on the sale of the property.

INCLUDE:

FEATURES

• 365m2 4 bedroom brick/ block home

• 5th bedroom or rumpus room

• 3 bathrooms in the main house

• Main bedroom has a dressing room and ensuite

• 2 lounge rooms

• Separate dining room

• Large solid timber kitchen with walk-in pantry

• Sunroom with pool outlook

• Office with built-in cabinetry

• Double carport

• Inground swimming pool & pond with fountain

• Wood-fired pizza oven & outdoor kitchen

• Combustion heater in main living room

• Bitumen driveway & guest parking

• Fully self-contained guest cottage with double carport

• 3 x Sheds including newly constructed 12 x 9m, 9 x 6m, 7 x 3m

• 36 Panel solar system with battery backup and management system

• 6mg water-licensed bore

• Large separate laundry with built-in cupboards

• Airconditioning throughout

So much to see and enjoy with this magnificent Tableland property.

Call Exclusive marketing agent Collette Rowston

from Raine & Horne Atherton to arrange your private inspection of this unique

Tolga home. Phone 0419 733 712 for more information.

Peaceful and tranquil

• Internal laundry with a sink & built-in cupboards

• 2.86 acre low maintenance lifestyle property

This gorgeous acreage property offers total privacy and plenty of space set on a fully usable 2.86 acre allotment.

Features Include;

• Beautiful highset home

• 3 spacious bedrooms, 2 bedrooms open onto the veranda. Master bedroom includes a built-in robe.

• Bathroom with a walkin shower & vanity unit. Separate toilet

• Air-conditioned open plan living

• Modern kitchen with electric appliances, rangehood, dishwasher, breakfast bar, pantry & ample bench space.

• Ceiling fans & fly screens throughout home

• Full length front veranda overlooking stunning mountain views

• 2 bay carport with a work bench

• Large industrial shed (approx. 14m x 14m) with three phase power & water connected

• 2 fenced paddocks

• Water supply: Rainwater tank & a permanent spring fed creek

Address:

• No neighbours in sight

– Enjoy your outdoor living in privacy!

• Located approximately 38kms from Atherton and 17kms from Ravenshoe.

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

Queenslander style home with a touch of country

SIZE and Class is all you'll find in this executive Queenslander style home with all the trimmings. Nothing has been omitted in the design of this beautiful home, and that is evident from the moment you set eyes on it.

Stepping inside the main entry, you'll be greeted by beautiful polished timber floors. Branching off on either side are five good sized bedrooms, including a Master Bedroom that is absolutely huge. All bedrooms feature carpet flooring and built-in wardrobes. The master bedroom has a built-in wardrobe, as well as a walk-in wardrobe, features split-system air-conditioning and has a stylish ensuite as well.

Also off the main hallway is a deluxe main bathroom, which features a separate shower and bathtub, with quality fittings throughout, including 3 in 1 heating lamps.

Nearby is the convenient laundry, with direct access to the outside of the home, with plenty of linen storage space in the hall adjacent.

The living areas are easily the centrepoint of this immaculately presented home. Featuring an open plan layout, there is a beautifully finished kitchen with plenty of cupboard space, a huge pantry, quality appliances, and even an island bench.

The dining area is off to one side of the kitchen, and on the other is the spacious lounge/family room.

Address:

Price:

Agent:

Contact:

Throughout this main living area, and in fact the entire home, there are large windows & glass sliding doors, allowing plenty of natural light to enter.

Also adjoining the main living area is an executive style media room with surround sound wiring and concertina shutter doors that open out to the lounge/family room.

If tropical outdoor living is what you had in mind, then the wide verandahs that surround the home, and in particular the rear verandah which overlooks the vast open backyard, is where you'll spend most of your time.

Perched up, catching the gentle summer breezes, watching the kids run around, while you're preparing the afternoon BBQ with a nice cold drink, or sitting down with friends enjoying an al-fresco dinner party is what you can expect to enjoy, the possibilities are endless.

There is so much more to mention about this home, here are some of the additional features.

• Five bedroom Queenslander home

• Immaculately presented & well maintained

• Wide timber verandas all around the home

• Open plan design, polished timber floors throughout

• Large windows & glass sliding doors, allowing plenty of natural light

• Spacious, modern kitch-

15 Walsh Street, MAREEBA

Offers in the High $700,000’s

EXCLUSIVE to Rino Gava Sibi Girgenti Real Estate 0427 779 086

en with plenty of storage space

• Stylish bathroom with separate shower & tub

• Air-conditioning to living areas & Master bedroom

• Four bay concrete carpark under the home

• Large 4 bay Colourbond shed with power connected

• 3017m2 fully fenced allotment with remote controlled entry gate

• Established landscaped gardens most with fixed irrigation

• In a quiet area with no rear Neighbours

• Minutes from Mareeba CBD and an hour from Cairns international airport

Contact exclusive marketing agent Rino Gava today on 0427779086 or email rino@girgentigroup.com for further details or to arrange your inspection.

EXPRESS

TAKE A BREAK

BIG WORD SEARCH CROSSWORD

19 spoken rather than written; verbal

20 a spectacle involving swimming and diving, usually with musical accompaniment

22 the branch of medicine concerned with the study and treatment of disorders and diseases of the eye

Down

1 a furnace or oven for burning, baking, or drying, especially one for firing pottery

2 a long-legged wading bird with a slender upturned bill and strikingly patterned plumage

3 a rich fabric woven with a raised pattern, typically with gold or silver thread

SUDOKU

Enter digits from 1 to 9 into the blank spaces. Every row must contain one of each digit.

Across

7 the twenty-fifth anniversary of a significant event (6,7)

8 a cycle with a single wheel, typically used by acrobats

9 to choose something from a number of alternatives

10 seaward flow in estuaries or tidal rivers during a tidal phase of lowering water level

12 a steep rock face, especially at the edge of the sea

14 a dishonest or unscrupulous man

16 a metal container with a handle, used to fetch and store coal for a domestic fire

Puzzle Solutions

4 not bright; subdued colours or lighting

5 to make doubts, feelings, or beliefs disappear

6 showing or exercising mercy

11 declared in law as unable to pay their debts

13 informal British word for delicious

15 a deep-water marine mollusc with a thick colourful spiral shell

17 the equipment required for a task or sport

18 a type of canoe made of a light frame with a watertight covering having a small opening in the top to sit in 21 informal word for lodgings

WEEKLY HOROSCOPES

mar 21 - apr 19

This week, you’re in control. Assess how some of your routines are going to lead to achieving your goals. If they’re not, this energy is good for making solid change. Later in the week align a reverent act with the energies and manifest your deepest desires.

jun 21 - jul 22

This week, a solution arrives. You could find yourself at odds with authority. Teey want you to make an adjustment and you need to look at your situation closely and see whether they are correct. You might need to advocate for a loved one.

sep 23 - oct 22

This week, there is a new beginning. Early in the week carve out some time to do the things you enjoy that connect you to the greater Universe. You might have some difficulty getting into a routine, maybe finding a symbol to associate will help.

dec

22 - jan 19

This week, you’re taking the lead. Even though someone might be argumentative, they’re as certain as you are and you could reach an impasse. One of you will need to adjust. Later in the week be clear on your requests to the universe, put your desires on paper

apr 20 - may 20

This week, someone says what you need to hear. No matter how connected you are to your loved one you might feel detached this week. A change in your thinking and how you’re communicating what you’re thinking will make all of the difference.

jul 23 - aug 22

This week, you’re on the right track. Keep your long term plans in mind and your impulses regarding a purchase in check. When looking towards your end goal, focus on the outcome but also take some time to look at the steps you need to take.

oct 23 - nov 21

This week, your words have power. A friend might be going in a direction that you think is I’ll advised. Speaking your mind will probably cause some discord, if they’re unwilling to adjust then you’ll have to. Maybe you’ll need to agree to disagree.

jan 20 - feb 18

This week, your message is heard. Use caution around finances this week, miscommunication is likely. Don’t click on strange links and don’t give out personal info. The first step to creating abundance is allowing yourself to receive. The universe is a mirror.

may 21 - jun 20

This week, you’re going your own way. You could feel at odds with a family member, you’ve been spending some time breaking free of family patterns and conditioninng but someone might not feel this is the right direction for you. A discussion will help.

aug 23 -sep 22

This week, things are looking up. Confidence comes after you’ve done the thing, remember that if you’re about to take action on something. Don’t put the cart before the horse. Later in the week put your love goals out into the universe.

nov

22 - dec 21

This week, you’re tapping into the collective power. You might find social media frustrating early in the week, frustration isn’t a sign to give up. Trust that the right people will be tuning in. Later in the week you could find tapping into your heritage to be helpful.

f

eb

19 - mar 20

This week, your resources open up. You might not see eye to eye with someone close. It’s understandable to not always agree but you might feel this person is heading in the wrong direction. Somtimes we have to adjust for the people we care about.

Esme Lillian

ANDERSEN

Late of Tolga. Passed away peacefully on Wednesday the 30th of August, 2023 at the Atherton Hospital. Aged 94 years.

Much loved Wife of Christopher (Deceased).

Loved Mother and Mother-in-law of Steve and Maria. Loving Grandmother of Mark and Ian and their families. Also loving Great Grandmother.

Members of the Tolga Indoor Bowls Club and members of the Uniting Church Atherton are respectfully invited to attend Esme’s funeral which is to be held at the Uniting Church, 40 Jack Street, Atherton on 21st September, 2023 at 11.00am, followed by interment in Atherton Cemetery

1300 781 084

In Memory Of Alma Bewick

03/12/1941 ~ 18/09/2021

This is the way to live, that after you have gone, people will wish that you were still around to give them comfort and counsel, love, care, understanding and concern.

Robert, Lincoln and Roxanne, Stephanie and Colin, Kent and Melonie, Grandchildren and Great Grandchildren.

My adoption fee is $160.

The Family of Gregoria Acha

Would like to extend our sincere thanks to our family and friends, for your kind wishes, messages, owers, cards and sympathy.

We are also grateful to the sta at the Mareeba Garden Settlement and to Dr Grant Manypeney for the loving and caring support mum received. Please accept this as our personal thanks.

MALTESE PUPPIES

9 weeks, 3M, 1F. All vet work done, mischievous and seeking happy homes.

$2000 Neg

P: 0428 759 443

BIN0011757117382

DISHWASHER 60cm Freestanding. Brand new, still in box. Not needed. $250 ONO Ph: 4092 7801

TABLELAND COMMUNITY HOUSING ASSOCIATION

Housing Officer/Reception

Permanent Part Times: 34 Hours Per Week

SCHADS Award

Industry Experience Highly Regarded Application Close 1.30 pm 29 th September

Job Description available from: manager@tch.org.au

FACQ-MSC2023-04

CLEANING SERVICES – MT MOLLOY AND JULATTEN

Mareeba Shire Council invites Quotations from suitably qualified respondents for the Cleaning Services and Waste removal for townships of Mt Molloy and Julatten.

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

All enquiries or clarifications must be via the online forum which will close 3 days prior to closing time.

Council officers are unable to respond to verbal or emailed enquiries.

The closing time for electronic lodgement of Tenders is Tuesday 3 October 2023 at 2:00pm. Regulation 228(7) of the Local Government Regulation 2012 may be applied.

Tender(s) will not be opened publicly. The lowest or any tender not necessarily accepted

Peter Franks

Chief Executive Officer PO Box 154, MAREEBA QLD 4880

FACQ-MSC2023-03

IRVINEBANK TOWN COMMON – CLEANING CONTRACT

Mareeba Shire Council invites Quotations from suitably qualified respondents for the cleaning and rubbish removal for the township of Irvinebank.

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

All enquiries or clarifications must be via the online forum which will close 3 days prior to closing time.

Council officers are unable to respond to verbal or emailed enquiries.

The closing time for electronic lodgement of Tenders is Thursday, 28 September at 10:00am.

Regulation 228(7) of the Local Government Regulation 2012 may be applied.

Tender(s) will not be opened publicly. The lowest or any tender not necessarily accepted

Peter Franks

Chief Executive Officer PO Box 154, MAREEBA QLD 4880

SPORT

Wallace gets the gold at worlds

IN a remarkable display of tenacity and skill, former Ravenshoe local and Paralympian Trish Wallace, has clinched a gold and silver medal at the Para Powerlifting World Championships in Dubai.

Training hard up to six times a week in the lead-up to the championships, Wallace excelled in the 45+ Legends category, seizing the two medals.

This accomplishment marks her second medal-winning venture for Australia, following her earlier achievements of gold and bronze at the 2022 Asia Oceania Open Championships in Korea.

Trish's journey in the world of powerlifting commenced in 2017, embarking on a path that led her to numerous national competitions.

Her recent foray onto the international stage was fuelled by her ambition to qualify for the prestigious Paris 2024 Paralympic Games.

Although she didn’t qualify for the big games, Trish's elation remains palpable as she returns home with a 2kg improvement in her international personal best.

“I am still really happy with it all. You had to be in the top eight to get to the Olympics, which I didn’t get, but I was in the top 20,” he said.

“Dubai was just absolutely

amazing and not what I expected at all – it was incredibly clean.”

Back in the gym, Wallace is

Fierce fighters off to state championships

set to compete in Thailand at the end of the year and then will head to Egypt to compete in another world championship.

A TRIO of fierce young fighters will be heading to Brisbane this week to compete in the Muay Thai State Championships.

Anthony Raoul, Shakayla Pedrola and Jye Whibberley from Spirit Muay Thai Mareeba will be stepping up in the ring against some of the best in Queensland.

Being only 13 years old, Whibberley will be one of the youngest to compete at states and is confident in the lead-up to face the “big boys”.

This is his second fight ever, ready for redemption after falling to his first opponent, focusing hard on training six times a week.

“I am a little bit nervous but at the same time, just keen to get down there,” he said.

“It is going to be good to compete in Brisbane and hopefully get a win.”

Raoul is already pumped with adrenaline and ready to go, feeling confident after his recent win in the Elite Fight Series in Cairns. Training harder than ever, he is keen to get

back in the ring and make himself known on a state level.

“I’ll be doing double training sessions and focusing on my kicking this time,” he said.

“I also need to remember not to doubt myself because I remember in my first round against Charles (during Elite Fight Series), I didn’t know if I was ready.

“I didn’t know what I was capable of, and you have to hold yourself to a high standard.”

Co-owner and trainer Rosario Signorino said he was confident in the trio and their prowess, proud of everything they have achieved so far.

“They have done really well in all their tournaments so far,” he said.

“I am feeling quite confident in them going into this big round. They have really surprised me and just keep training.”

States will kick off on this Saturday 23 September in Brisbane.

Sunday racing action

Trish Wallace and her coach Simon at the powerlifting world championships.

SUNDAY’S RESULTS AT HERBERTON: D Grade – 1st Emma Ross, C Grade –1st Mark Toohey, B Grade – 1st Edward Smith and A Grade – 1st David Shade.

STATES BOUND: Spirit Muay Thai co-owner Rosario Signorino, fighters Shakalya Pedrola, Jye Whibberley, Anthony Raoul and co-owner Salvatore Signorino.

Peter But

Mark Toohey.

Jackiah Tuttley.

Kirsty Baumgaton.

Daniel Weller.

SPORT

SOME of Atherton’s finest and most dedicated rugby league players have been recognised at the Atherton Senior Roosters Rugby League Club’s presentation dinner.

Hard working forward Connor Griffin was named as the 2023 premier player of the year.

Griffin was announced as the most consistent first grade player in a breakthrough season for the former Malanda Eels junior.

Young rising star went to Tait Coghlan who also also picked up a double after being named under 18 best and fairest and club male rookie of the year.

Ty Grogan again featured in the presentations with the highest try scorer and first grade best back trophies.

Player achievements were celebrated by 250 guests who attended the awards dinner at the Atherton Hotel on Friday night.

HIT 97.9 TABLELANDS

FIRST GRADE

Chano Trentin Player of the Year

– Connor Griffin

Best Back – Ty Grogan

Best Forward – Jyde Dwyer

Most Improved – Matt Baillie

Most Consistent – Connor Griffin

DANIEL PAYNE BLOCKLAY-

ING RESERVE GRADE

Best & Fairest – Morgan Payne

Best Back – Justin Bevan

Best Forward – Connor Pavey

Most Improved – Daniel Walker

Most Consistent – Coopa Stremouchiw

SPAR MALANDA UNDER 18

Best & Fairest – Tait Coghlan

Best Back – Limferd Lui

Best Forward – Jordan Torrisi

Most Improved – Jude O’Connor

Most Consistent – Sawyer Nehow

LADIES TEAM AWARDS

Best & Fairest – Lexeen Mathieson

Best Back – Teesha Potts

Best Forward – Taneel Barton

Most Improved – Lilly Caulfield

Most Consistent – Leysha Genge

CLUB AWARDS

Female Rookie of the Year

– Mackenzie Stephens

Male Rookie of the Year

– Tait Coghlan

Club Person of the Year

– Joel Reithmuller

Les McElligott Memorial Top Try

Scorer 2023 – Ty Grogan

Player Service Award –

Jermaine Pedro

THE season’s top Gladiators were recognised over the weekend during the Mareeba Senior Rugby League’s presentation dinner.

Continuing his winning streak, Caleb Dally was named Gladiator of the Year for his efforts both on and off the field.

Making history in the grand finals, players Tristian Lopez, Tyrone Williams, Makeal Newbury, Reece Boyle, Noah Blooranta and Saxon Vizard were all recognised for their contributions throughout the season.

Gabriel Tunimakubu was also named Rookie of the Year in his A Grade debut.

John Arcidiacono was also named the newest life member of the Mareeba Gladiators for his ongoing support for the club.

Senior Roosters 2023 Player of the Year Connor Griffin.

and Ricky Shave.

players Tristan Lopez, Ty Williams, Makeal Newbery, Reece Boyle, Nosh Blooranta and Saxon Vizard.

Atherton ready to hit the pitch

EAGER for a shot at the premiership following last season's unfortunate washout, Atherton Cricket Club will be entering this season with a squad of fresh faces poised to make their debut.

In the previous season, Atherton's top players left an indelible mark on the field, finishing comfortably in second place when the season ended.

This time around, they're geared up to replicate their success, and team captain Tom Boorman is resolute about leading his squad back to the summit.

“We got rained off during the grand final, but with the team we had, we were really happy with our achievements anyway,” he said.

“We were expected to finish in the top three, so we were pretty proud of that, but we were pretty disappointed that obviously the weather wasn’t on our side.

“It’s a pretty strong comp this season, and if we can just make it to the finals, that will be a huge achievement.

“I am confident in the boys and hopefully, we will have a good season.”

Boorman recognised the strength of the competition this season, with his primary aim is to secure a spot in the finals.

This season, Boorman is keen for some friendly rivalry with the Mareeba Bandits, who are making their debut in the top grade.

He's been eagerly awaiting a local cricket derby for years, particularly against Maree-

Play Me Now takes out Atherton Cup

NEW Zealand’s Play Me Now took out the Atherton Cup Open Handicap 2000m with jockey Lacey Morrison on board to win the $12,600 first prize on Saturday 16 September.

In front of a large crowd at Atherton Turf Club, the Maria Potiris-trained gelding took first place by just 0.20 seconds in front of Tutelage ridden by Masayuki Abe and American Saint ridden by Carl Spry.

Lacey Morrison also won the third race of the meet, the Cottage Café QTIS Ratings Band 0-60 Handicap 1200m on Side Hustle, just in front of Always Written Off, trained by Mareeba’s Alex Malliff.

Jockey Carl Spry also took out the first race of the day, the Tolga Hotel Maiden Plate 1000m with Wicked Dreamer.

While Scott Sheargold on Guapo won the Savannah Campers & Trailers Class B Handicap 1000m, the second race of the six-race meet, while jockey Rachel Shred on Bonython took out the fourth race, the Central Tyre Service Open Handicap 1200m. Eroe with Pietro Romeo on board won the fifth race, the Costa Benchmark 50 Handicap 1400m.

ba's captain, Brandan Falvo, whom he had the opportunity to play alongside in the Big Bash series a few months ago.

“We have never played against Mareeba, and there are a few young fellas there I am keen to see play,” he said.

“It’s really exciting for them and keen for Mareeba to get out there in a grade.”

With their first game set to kick off against Barron River this weekend, Boorman hopes his teammates are ready for this year’s competition and encourages them to play for the fun of it.

“Obviously, we want to win,” he said.

“I think it will help our performance if we don’t have a fear of failure. We will be a full team ready to play our game and have fun.”

Milgate wins first Canadian buckle

MAREEBA’S top up-and-coming bull rider Wyatt Milgate has been making his name known in North America, winning his first bull ride in Canada recently.

Riding at the Twin Valley rodeo. Milgate went up against some of the nicest bulls and riders he had seen in his career.

“The pen of bulls contracted there was a nice pen, and the bull I had drawn was just simply nice to get on, and I enjoyed myself,” he said.

“The other riders were competitive and definitely had some skills of their own.

“Winning my first buckle in Canada definitely gives me more confidence within myself and more motivation to keep pushing forward.

“This is definitely a milestone for me, and I aim to win more buckles in the future.”

Riding up to four times a week, Milgate has made his face known in the circuit so far, determined to add more buckles to his growing collection.

Being everything he had hoped for and more, he said he was grateful for the support of the local riders taking him under their wing.

“The rodeo scene in Canada is everything I thought it would be, with plenty of rodeos and bull rides to attend.

“Normally, I’m riding from Thursday through to Sunday each week, so I’ve definitely got my hands full,” he said.

“The people on the rodeo circuit are friendly and welcoming, which makes things really easy, especially being from overseas.”

Atherton Cup winner Play Me Now and jockey Lacey Morrison

Bulls go down to Lions

BY ELLIE FINK

A LAST minute free kick in the Far North and Gulf Football premier men’s grand final saw The Leichhardt Lions take down the Mareeba Bulls 2-1.

Hundreds of Bulls fans donned the black and orange in Cairns over the weekend, cheering on their team on the field in their first grand final since 2019.

Starting off strong, the Bulls scored first, fuelled with confidence, but the Lions struck back, evening out the score seconds before the end of the first half.

Captain Adrian Madrid said coming into the locker room during the halftime break, he could see the devastation the team felt for letting their game slip.

“There was a damning feeling across the board, and everyone had their heads down,” he said.

“I had to reassure them that we were not losing yet, and we could come back but in the second half we came out in an even battle, but unfortunately with only three or four minutes to go, they got a free kick and put us away.”

Although the loss has made the team upset, coach Kane Alderton said he was proud of their efforts through the entirety of the season.

“It’s a mix of emotions and it's still a bit raw but I am still proud of the boy's efforts over the season and considering the lack of players and injuries throughout the season, we still finished second,” he said.

“We will just enjoy the off-season now and spend some time with family.”

Madrid is already thinking about the future, preparing the team’s strategy for next

season, confident they will make it to the top three once again.

“I am really hoping the coaches and players from this season stick around so we can build off what we did this season,” he said.

“We had a great little crew by the end of

night.

Clean sweep for Eagles

THE Atherton Eagles have secured two grand final wins this season, with their Under 13 team and Division One men, smashing their Far North and Gulf Football final games. Showcasing their prowess on the field, the Under 13 team came into the game ready to put up a fight.

Drawing 2-2 by full time, the game went into extra time, with spectators in the grandstands on the edge of their seats. Shooting a perfect goal, the under 13s secured the win, putting the final score at 3-2.

The division one men were on fire, playing back and forth throughout both halves of the game and winning with a clean final goal 4-3.

▪ More coverage to come in next week’s edition.

it and I think it is important that we start off strong in the preseason and hopefully we get another good run.”

Alderton and Madrid both thanked the town for their support throughout the season and hoped they did Mareeba proud.

Mareeba Bulls captain Adrian Madrid goes up against the Leichhardt Lions on Saturday

PHOTO: Ashleigh Leporati.