The Express Newspaper 22nd February 2023

IT’S goats galore at Atherton State High School with the school’s goat club gaining popularity from a variety of students.

The goat club took off in 2008 and allows students to gain skills, knowledge and confidence when working with animals.

Students meet twice a week during their lunch breaks to bond and learn about the goats that live on the school grounds.

Goat club coordinator and agriculture teacher Tracey Fitzgerald has already seen the benefits of the club in the classroom and in the playground.

“It has benefited the students as they find goat club is a safe, supportive

environment where they can make new friends and interact with animals,” she said.

“Teachers benefit by providing this experience for the student and seeing improved student engagement.

“Interacting with animals improves students’ wellbeing and this then transfers to the classroom, especially in the agriculture subjects.”

Students in the goat club are currently training their goats for the Atherton Show, learning skills in husbandry, handling, show ring etiquette and judging to prepare.

In Term 3 and 4 after the Atherton Show, they will continue to train baby goats in preparation for the following year’s show.

Kids crazy for goats Council extends CEO contract

MAREEBA Shire Council’s chief executive officer Peter Franks has secured a five-year extension to his contract, amid praise for his leadership and professionalism.

Mayor Angela Toppin said councillors unanimously endorsed Mr Franks’ continuation in the position last week.

“I am very pleased that he will remain an asset to the Mareeba community for another five years,” she said.

“Since Peter commenced as CEO at Mareeba Shire Council in February 2014, he has had an enormous role to lead the organisation through a very vulnerable time.

“With the financial rating delivered by Queensland Treasury (pre de-amalgamation) as ‘very weak with a negative outlook’, Peter was able to draw on his experience and knowledge, to turn this rating around to ‘moderate with neutral outlook’ with the support of Council, the management team and staff.

“This resounding turnaround was achieved by good fiscal management and a strong desire to deliver affordable, quality services to our community, which is within the means of the ratepayers, and which remains true to our long-term financial plan.

“In recent years, and with Peter’s leadership, council has continued to report on significant achievements, despite ongoing economic challenges following the global pandemic.”

Achievements included council’s capital works program of more than $20 million during the previous financial year, and the release of the Parks and Open Spaces Strategy and Action Plan

“The action plan represents a record spend on parks and open spaces to improve access to quality parks, without any additional cost to ratepayers,” Mayor Toppin said.

Council’s corporate and community services director Jennifer McCarthy said Mr Franks had been clear about his purpose from the get-go.

“On commencement of his position, Peter articulated his purpose with staff immediately and has continued to regularly reach staff through several mediums,” she said.

“His open-door policy is welcomed by many and creates a culture of openness and transparency amongst staff.

“This enables council to remain resilient, even in times of uncertainty.”

Mr Franks said he was excited to continue to serve the council as its chief executive officer and lead a highly capable and passionate organisation.

“I have been in charge at several councils throughout Australia, and the last nine years at Mareeba Shire with a wonderful natural environment, has been truly magnificent,” he said.

“It is a privilege and honour to lead this highly capable and passionate organisation that works together towards a single objective, to serve the community of the Mareeba Shire.”

Students at Atherton State High School have the opportunity to raise goats as a part of their agricultural studies.

Mareeba Shire Council CEO Peter Franks, pictured with Mayor Angela Toppin, has secured a five-year extension.

Rain takes toll on shire roads

BY ROBYN HOLMES

FIXING a multitude of roads badly damaged by heavy rain and flooding over the past two months poses a big challenge for Mareeba Shire Council, with around 100 already inspected by crews as they battle to undertake emergency repairs just to keep the roads open.

Council has applied for, and been successful, in activating Disaster Recovery Arrangements to enable it to access State and Federal Governments funding assistance to repair the damaged roads.

With the activation now approved, Infrastructure Services director Glenda Kirk said that in addition to emergency works undertaken on 10 roads around Mareeba, Paddy’s Green, Dimbulah and Almaden during January, another 86 roads had been inspected and work orders issued for more emergency repairs.

“Firstly, we undertake emergency repairs to get the road open and trafficable, and then either do immediate restoration or restoration to undertake permanent repairs,” she said.

Ms Kirk said there was “a whole bunch of requirements” that had to be adhered to so council could access the government funding, so that “we don’t burden the ratepayer with these repairs”.

“The money available immediately is to get roads open and accessible and we’ve got a crew stretched over 54,000 km so we try to keep every road open with this ongoing rain,” she said, adding crews had replaced the approaches to Sandy Tate River bridge already three times this year.

“We are trying to get to everywhere as quickly as we can – we’re aware that a lot of property owners are a bit frustrated or a bit distressed because they can’t get in and out of their properties.

“We just ask people to keep reporting damage so we’re aware of it because what we are finding is that we are having big events in isolated areas happening overnight and washing away the works that we’ve only just done.”

Cr Lenore Wyatt said given the amount of work

that had to be done and constant bad weather playing havoc, people needed to take that into account before criticising council for being tardy in responding to customer requests.

“You look at the socials (media) and people are having a big gripe about the roads and so on – we can only physically do what we can do and a lot of time we are working on a Main Road system so we have permissions and we have rules that we have to follow for those roads,” she said.

“I think everyone thinks that in our sphere of influence that we look after all the roads and that’s where all their money goes – it’s not true and we try to get those facts out there.

“I just hope people understand that if their drain is blocked, yes, we will get there as soon as we can, if their road is smashed, we will get there as soon as we can – we only have so much capacity.”

Ms Kirk said while the immediate available government funding would restore the shire’s roads “like for like”, there would be an opportunity to apply for funding later in the year to potentially permanently improve some of the roads’ capacity to handle heavy rainfall.

“They do have a ‘betterment’ program where we can apply to have areas that are subject to repeated ongoing damage year after year to actually make those sites more resilient and we have had quite good success with some of those programs in the past,” she said.

“If there is damage anywhere in 2023, when they open that betterment program later in the year, we can put forward those sites that, we believe, we can get over the line from a benefit-cost assessment to get them improved.”

Mayor Angela Toppin said council was grateful for the disaster funding it received from both levels of government.

“I would like to thank residents for their patience and understanding while council responds to customer requests across our vast road network. I also encourage residents to report any new damage to council,” she said.

ATHERTON'S RSL sub-branch went into receivership last week and its building on Railway Lane put up for sale.

The news of the receivership shocked those who were told at the RSL on Saturday 11 February – about the same time the “For Sale” sign was installed outside the building which has only been open for three years.

LJ Hooker Atherton has been given the job of selling the building which sits on land leased from the Department of Main Roads.

However, they could not comment about the price of the building or provide any other details due to the appointment of the administrator.

John Goggin, of Worrells, confirmed that he had been appointed Voluntary Administrator of Returned & Services League of Australia (Queensland Branch) Atherton Sub-Branch Incorporated on 8 February.

“At this early stage of the administration, I am not able to comment on financial or property matters,” he said,

“All key stakeholders have been notified of my appointment and a meeting of creditors has been convened for Monday, 20 February."

The Atherton RSL subbranch is the latest to find it difficult to sustain a premises, with the Mareeba and Malanda RSL buildings sold last year.

Atherton was without an RSL facility from 2008 to 2020 when the Railway Lane building was finally opened.

Damage done to Ootann Road (above) and Chillagoe Causeway (below) – just two of the many roads that need repairing after heavy rainfall in the past two months.

Breaking down the stigma one breakfast at a time

THE stigma around Breakfast Club’s has been smashed by Ravenshoe State School with their Breakfast Club being regarded as a social event attended by nearly 50 kids every morning.

Ravenshoe State School P-12 hosts a breakfast club for both its senior and junior students every week through a chaplaincy program.

Kids can enjoy a range of confectionaries from pies to salami and cheese toasties to fresh bananas, all thanks to local donations.

All the food at the club is donated by locals with the workers always preferring to source locally instead of buying from supermarket chains.

Local Ken Carey has been volunteering his time at the Breakfast Club for several years and has seen more and more kids attend each year.

“What we’ve done is we’ve actually broken down the sort of stigma of breakfast club and turned it into a social event which has been fantastic,” he said.

“There has definitely been an uptick in the kids that are using it and we do use it as a social thing and explain to the parents it is not embarrassing to get breakfast.

“The kids know it is a safe environment for them.”

Local farmers provide a range of different ingredients, a Tully banana farmer provides heaps of excess bananas and the Ravenshoe Highland Bakery provides 10 loafs of break each Monday plus a range of other pies and pastries.

After buying Ravenshoe Highland Bakery

in 2018, Tracy Cunliffe and Anthony Boscacci began supplying the school’s breakfast club as her child was a student previously and benefited from the club.

“I made personal donations (to the club) until we bought the bakery and I was in a good position to donate more,” she said.

“It is an excellent program and a great community service.

“We all know how important breakfast is for everyone, especially children, and unfortunately due to different circumstances not every child gets a breakfast at home.”

The bakery does not stop its support at just supplying freshly baked goods but also extends its hand to assist the school all year round with fundraisers such as car washes, bread and buns for sausage sizzles, Debutante Ball dinners, cent sales, sports days and students raising money for trips.

“We try to support locals whenever we can, so we buy our meat from the local butcher, milk & cream from Malanda & Mungalli Falls, local fruit & vegetables and local coffee beans,” Tracy said.

“We strongly believe in supporting locals, supporting the community we all live in and love.

“We really appreciate the volunteers who do the actual work at the school Breakfast Club because without their hard work and dedication, the donations mean nothing.”

Green waste increase

MORE than 720 tonnes of green waste were dropped off to transfer stations through the Mareeba Shire in January.

Residents also embraced the recent free green waste days earlier this month, with 300 vehicles reportedly dropping off green waste at Mareeba transfer station alone.

Future of town pool remains uncertain

BY ROBYN HOLMES

AN inability to get lifeguards has forced the closure of the Mt Garnet swimming pool for nearly three years, prompting questions by Tablelands Regional councillors as to what the options are to get it reopened to the community.

Cr Dave Bilney raised the issue at a recent meeting, expressing concern about money being spent to service and undertake repairs on a pool that has not been able to be used by the public since March 2020.

Cr Bilney also referred to large amounts of money expected to be spent on the pool, with $38,000 allocated in the 2022-23 budget for the replacement of the skimmer box and $450,000 slated for the 2023-24 budget for relining the pool.

“I see this pool as an important asset for Mt Garnet and I would like to better understand why it’s not open and I’m seeking a report from officers as to the options we can consider to get the pool operational again,” he said.

“The gates are closed yet we still have to maintain it so the expenses are continuing

regardless of it not being open.

“We need to look at options to get it up and running for the community and justify the spend.”

He said council had trained members of the community to act as lifeguards some years ago, but those people had since left or no longer wished to undertake those duties.

Under Royal Life Saving Australia guidelines, which came into effect in January 2019, requirements for low patronage pools were superseded and were replaced by a requirement for increased supervision for all aquatic facilities in the form of trained and qualified lifeguards.

“An alternative to this requirement is the development of a supervision plan incorporating health and capability pre-screening and medical health checklists for attendees,” council’s infrastructure and environment general manager Mark Vis said.

“We are unable to provide this level of service at the Mt Garnet pool and have been unable to secure volunteer services from within the community.”

He said the pool had closed to the public in March 2020 to meet Covid-19 directives

and, on advice received, had not reopened.

“It is available for bookings as long as the requirements are met and we are currently working with the Mt Garnet State School to arrange for private hire of the pool for the students’ swimming lessons.”

Cr Bilney raised the possibility of a different management model for the pool, similar to one that was established for the Malanda Pool some years ago, under which the Department of Education manages the facility.

He also questioned what community consultation had occurred and what that had revealed.

“I don’t know what community consultation has been done – I’m not privy to those discussions so I have asked for all the options and information to be put into a report to council,” he said.

Mr Vis said officers were investigating opportunities and options for the pool with councillors.

“We hope to partner with the community to provide a safe, functional and compliant pool facility for the community,” he said.

Ken Carey serving up breakfast to students at Ravenshoe State School.

Push to get on with bypass

BY ROBYN HOLMES

IMPROVING overall safety and making Byrnes Street a more pedestrian-friendly area were just two reasons why the State Government should get on with building the long-awaited Mareeba Heavy Vehicle Bypass, says community leaders.

The State Government is currently asking Mareeba residents for their views on the bypass, but with only a couple of days to go before the deadline on 23 February, both the Chamber of Commerce and the Mareeba Shire Council are urging locals to have their say.

The current alignment of the road would take heavy vehicles around the main centre of Mareeba and connect them back onto the Mulligan Highway at the Adil Road intersection.

Chamber president Joe Moro said the bypass was first raised three decades ago and while he understood that some locals had “lost faith” it would

ever be built, it was critical they fed into the consultation process to put pressure on the government to get on with the planning, design and construction of the road.

“The need to get big trucks out of the main street has been identified in surveys from the chamber so we will be putting in a submission in favour of the bypass going ahead,” he said.

“While I don’t believe there has ever been an accident involving a truck in the street, we have been told there has been near misses.

“A lot of people, especially our elderly folk, get a bit nervous backing out of parking spots with big trucks coming down the street, and crossing the road, so from a safety point of view, we support taking trucks out of Byrnes Street.”

Another advantage of the bypass would be that trucks could avoid using Granite Creek Bridge which was not only an ageing structure, but susceptible to flooding.

He acknowledged that some businesses were concerned the bypass could mean a loss of passing trade.

“That fear is held by some businesses but there is no data to back that up and there’s a strong view that it will not be a negative.

“I think the main thing here is safety – if trucks did not come down the street, it would improve safety immensely.

“The other advantage is that once these issues are sorted out, we can look at more beautification of the street including possible allowing for green spaces and outdoor dining options.”

Mareeba Shire Mayor Angela Toppin plans to hand the shire’s feedback directly to Transport Minister Mark Bailey this week.

“From our point of view, this is a growing shire and the more it grows, the more you’re going to have that sort of traffic (trucks),” she said.

“And the industrial park is over the other side of

Mareeba, so the bypass would take them near the industrial park and would keep that sort of traffic out of the main street.

“And we have been plagued with this problem for awhile – the bypass has been on our advocacy list since amalgamation - we have taken it on numerous occasions to the State, we’ve taken it to FNQROC and it is included in their advocacy priorities.

“This council has already handed over some council land on the northern end to facilitate the bypass so we are fully supportive. “

The thrust of our feedback will be to ‘get your roller skates on’ and build it.”

Mayor Toppin urged residents to have their say before the consultation closes this week.

To have your say, go to www.yoursay-projects. tmr.qld.gov.au/consultations

Hard copies of the feedback form are available at the Mareeba Shire Council office in Rankin Street.

Birthing services still suspended

COOKTOWN mothers have spent a year without birthing services at their local hospital as a staff shortage forced the service to be suspended and mothers having to travel hundreds of kilometres weeks in advance of delivery to the nearest hospital.

The Cooktown Multipurpose Health Service suspended its birthing services on 18 February 2022 and still cannot recruit senior medical officers with advanced training in obstetrics and anaesthetics.

Without them, the hospital cannot offer safe and sustainable birthing services.

Mothers have been forced to relocate to Cairns or another town with an appropriate hospital as far as 36 weeks out from delivery.

In the meantime, mothers can access funding through the Queensland Patient Travel Subsidy Scheme to assist them with

travel and accommodation costs.

Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service Chief Executive Beverley Hamerton said Cooktown hospital is not the only hospital in the state struggling to find workers to fill positions.

“Access to midwifery and medical staff for maternity services has been a state-wide issue across Queensland and indeed right across Australia,” she said.

“All health services have faced significant challenges recruiting such clinicians, but we are using every resource and network at our disposal to find suitable candidates.

“In the meantime, our dedicated staff at Cooktown have continued to provide unwavering support and a commitment to maintain continuity of care to our community.”

At this stage, there is no definitive date for the service to reopen.

Cow saved by heroes

BY ELLIE FINK

AN unlikely hero has saved a cow who found itself in a “bit of a pickle”, swimming out to the middle of Lake Tinaroo.

Whilst Yungaburra local Paul Harris was showing his friends around the lake and the Barron River in his boat, they came across the cow who was struggling to swim back to shore.

The sight was one they never thought to see but Paul and his family on board jumped straight into action to save the struggling animal.

“We were near the ski jumps and we saw it swimming in the middle of the water and a few boats had already almost hit it,” Paul said.

“We could see it was tired and unwell and it had a few bite marks, and we didn’t know really what to do so we lassoed it and bought it onto the back deck of our boat.”

It is believed the cow was attacked by dogs on a farm backing onto the dam and the cow jumped into the water to escape and couldn’t find its way back to shore.

Pulling the cow onto the back of his boat, his family and friends helped it back onto the

dry land, where a local farmer took it back to it’s home.

The whole experience was exhilarating for Paul, but the best part, besides saving the animal’s life, was his son telling him “you’re a hero papa!”.

“In the last 20 years I have never seen something like this before,” he said.

“We felt sorry for the poor cow and thought this would be a good adventure for us and our mates and it is a really good feeling to help someone or something out.”

WATCH THE RESCUE @ www.theexpressnews paper.com.au

THIS WEEK’S SPECIALS

Paul Harris and Ashley Lucas (pictured) helped a cow back to shore after it was found swimming in the middle of Lake Tinaroo. (Picture Supplied).

Nominations running in for 20-year race

FOR the past 20 years hundreds of people from all walks of life have come together to raise money and support causes close to their hearts through the Great Wheelbarrow Race, the only race of its kind in the world and nominations are flowing in for the 20th anniversary race this May.

Since its inception, the event has raised over $2 million for a range of different charities and causes.

This year’s race will be from Mareeba to Chillagoe and kicks off on Friday, 12 May with the downtown parade before the runners start their long and arduous journey along the Wheelbarrow Way.

Dimbulah will once again host the runners on their first night with a dinner and activities before they head to Almaden on Saturday.

The race is set to conclude in Chillagoe

on Sunday, 14 May after three tough days of racing.

Great Wheelbarrow Race Advisory Committee chair councillor Locky Bensted said the committee have some special things in mind for this year’s race to commemorate the 20 year anniversary.

“We have got a few extra celebrations and surprises up our sleeves that we hope to have in each town to bring the community together with the intentions to have everyone remember the 20 year race,” he said.

“Last year was a great year with a brand-new committee and was well supported with teams that had never raced before and we in the committee enjoyed it as much as the participants.

“Like all events it brings people to town of a day or night that may not normally come in on a weekend, the economic im-

pact that this race has on these communities is second to none.”

Currently there are 15 nominations across the different categories including teams, solos, duos and more and Cr Bensted is hoping to see that number increase over the next few months.

“We hope to see Dad’s Army again in this year’s race and we also a few very special teams who have nominated for the first time in honour of some special people in their lives who are no longer with us,” he said.

“This is your chance to become a part of something that is done nowhere else and it’s a huge team bonding exercise that really challenges you mentally and physically.”

Visit www.greatwheelbarrowrace.com for more information and to register.

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Nominations are open for the 20th anniversary Great Wheelbarrow Race being run this May.

Plan to tackle traffic issues

BY ROBYN HOLMES

TRAFFIC calming, intersection improvements, improved lighting and investigations on how long heavy vehicles can be restricted from using the John Doyle Bridge are part of a number of actions outlined in the new local traffic management plan for Anzac Avenue.

The document is a product of months of community consultation including the formation of a local resident traffic working group, community forums, and a survey sent to all households in the area, yielding 99 responses of which 67 per cent said there were traffic issues in their street.

Truck traffic, irresponsible driving, traffic speed and traffic volumes were all identified as issues by residents in the survey.

The local traffic management plan acknowledges there has been a substantial expansion of residential development with the precinct in recent years and that “this rapid urban sprawl” had created challenges in keeping up with the upgrade to infrastructure needed to cater for both vehicular and pedestrian movements.

“Our growing population has led to an increase in vehicle volumes, and when our roads reach capacity or become congested, drivers tend to turn to the local road network to avoid this congestion,” Mayor Angela Toppin said.

“Ultimately, the resulting traffic issues can become more difficult and expensive to address than the original problem.”

A host of actions have been identified in the traffic management plan, but according to local resident and working group member Gladys Franks, change can’t come quick enough.

While she is happy with the final plan, Mrs Franks is pushing Mareeba Shire Council to erect signs at the Herberton Street/Constance Street intersection and on the highway, advising that long heavy vehicles are not allowed to use the John Doyle bridge.

“I’d prefer that happened sooner than later,” she said, adding that she had been advised that until a roundabout was constructed at the intersection, signs would not be installed.

She said with more than 6000 vehicles a day using Anzac Avenue, it was important to implement the action plan as soon as possible to improve safety for those who live in the area.

A total of 15 actions has been outlined in the plan including investigating traffic calming solutions such as entry treatments and LED smiley face signs to reduce speed; possible widening of the avenue between Ferretti Close and Ceola Drive and improving intersections at Ferretti Close, Margherita Close, Cedric Davies Community Hub driveway and Thyme Lifestyle Resort driveway (includes potential relocation of entrance to Cedric Davies Community Hub); improving lighting on the footpath and road; investigating options for turning lanes and pedestrians crossing/refuge at the Ceola Drive/Anzac Avenue intersection; and investigating the reduction of the load limit for John Doyle Bridge. All of the actions will be subject to budget deliberations by the council, but five major issues identified in the survey will be tackled by June this year.

They are the resealing of Ceola Drive and Hastings Drive; the installation of a No Through Sign at Tivoli Close, Jacinta Close, Ferretti Close, and Margherita Close (which was completed in January); driveway access line markings and No Standing line markings outside the Thyme Lifestyle Resort; and the replacement of the footpath between Margherita and Ferretti Close.

Local Resident Traffic Working Group chair Cr Kevin Davies thanked everyone who had provided feedback throughout the process and members of the group who had provided local knowledge and advice to council.

“The plan that was adopted by council will assist with prioritising work required in the Anzac Avenue precinct based on which project will have the most impact on addressing current traffic problems,” he said.

Mayor Toppin said the next step was for officers to investigate what projects should take priority.

“The Local Area Traffic Management process commenced after the 2022/23 budget allocation, and council officers will now investigate, scope, and cost the suggested priority projects, for future consideration and approval by council,” she said.

Rain, rain, go away

MONSOONAL rain plumped down on across the region last week, with Atherton recording 300mm to date this month, while Mareeba had had 225mm.

The Bureau of Meteorology put out a severe weather warning last week, predicting six-hourly totals of 200 to 300mm.

This week is expected to bring some relief from the rain, with only light showers expected.

Product of Australia

Product of Australia

Product of Australia

Product of Australia

Four-year-old Lacey Pedersen made the best of the wet weather last week. PHOTO: ELLIE FINK.

Historic deal lights way for agricultural properties

LOCAL organisation Forever

Wild has taken a big step towards protecting iconic Australian landscapes after a historic deal with the Commonwealth Bank and Corporate Carbon enabled them to purchase two cattle stations in Western Australia for the purpose of protecting biodiversity and cultural heritage, specifically through sustainable agriculture and carbon farming.

Forever Wild was able to

purchase two cattle stations for roughly $2 million, which they plan to run as working cattle stations, but completely restructuring the livestock and herd dynamics to regenerate and restore the woodlands and generate carbon credits.

Forever Wild doubles as a company as well as a registered charity that operates with blended finance from impact investment and philanthropy around natural capital such as carbon, sustainable agriculture and biodiversity credits.

They believe that conservation can be achieved with truly sustainable food production and social outcomes, to protect Australian landscapes and produce quality food.

The carbon credits made available from the properties were forward sold to the Commonwealth Bank, via Corporate Carbon, with that money then used to finance the purchase of the land. The deal reduces the financial pressure as it is not linked to interest rates.

The Mareeba Wetlands was the pilot for the overall Forever Wild’s concept of blending conservation, low-impact agriculture and social enterprise. They reorganised the land management, livestock and enterprise aspects of the reserve to make the property financially sustainable, and there will be more changes coming this year at the Wetlands.

Forever Wild CEO Fiachra Kearney was delighted to be able to enter the deal with the bank, trading directly in natural capital to conserve, protect and rehabilitate the land and protect the diverse cultural heritage sites.

He said because the deal does not focus on the value of the agricultural product the properties produce, but rather the natural capital assets, there is more scope to experiment with how to actually run them.

“The nature of the deal is innovative for the Commonwealth Bank and the nature of trading in natural capital and carbon credits is basically a new way to finance the purchase of agricultural land,” he said.

“The way traditional agri-

culture tends to work is that the land is exploited to make a product, the product is sold, revenue comes back to pay off debts and make a livelihood.

Finance pressures can mean there is little room for restoring ecosystems, protecting our globally important landscapes or producing genuinely sustainable food.”

“But there is a growing consumer market around products which are clearly linked to biodiversity, ecological function and restoring landscapes to a really healthy state.”

Further down the track. Forever Wild will be able to produce finance products around biodiversity which will further offset agricultural intensification.

“On our WA properties the herd numbers will be about a third of what the properties can carry but it means we can restore the land,” he said.

“It also gives us much higher live weight gains, stronger drought resilience and lower operating costs. As a bonus we have a premium product that consumers can directly link to the conservation and cultural heritage management on our properties.

“Further down the track, sound conservation management will enable us to create finance products around biodiversity with then potentially further offset agricultural intensification. However, keeping these properties as part of the food production systems is critical – we just plan to do it better.”

Mr Kearney said there is very strong interest in natural capital assets and markets in the southern states, WA and overseas, and he believes that the Tablelands, the Gulf Country and Cape York Peninsula have enormous potential to leverage these markets.

“We are missing the boat here,” he said.

“With the focus still quite focused on land clearing, overgrazing and unsustainable practices, while there is still a lot of work to do on the systems and integrity of natural capital trading, these markets will continue to grow.”

Local company Forever Wild recently entered into an Australian first deal with the Commonwealth Bank and Corporate Carbon which allowed them to purchase two sizeable cattle properties in Western Australia.

Women set to celebrate

GET the girls together for a morning of music, fun and inspiration at The Express Newspaper’s International Women’s Day Breakfast.

Inspired by the work of many women in the community, The Express is proud to be hosting this event and welcome women and men from across the region to the breakfast being held at the Mareeba Leagues Club on Wednesday 8 March.

This year’s theme is #embracingequity and to honour that theme, all proceeds from the event will go to Tablelands Sexual Assault Service (TSAS).

TSAS is a not-for-profit organisation designed to help survivors of sexual assault and violence navigate through healing with free counselling.

All profits from ticket sales and the raffle will go directly to the organisation to help them continue supporting those effected by sexual violence.

Over $1200 worth of gifts, vouchers and services are up for grabs in this year’s raffle with tickets on sale now from The Express office located at 186 Byrnes Street, Arabella Jewellers in Atherton Square or Main Street, Atherton Extreme Motorcycles at 2 Tolga Road, Atherton, Elders Rural Services at 29 Albrecht Street, Tolga and Pluto and Nessie located at Shop 3/20 Eacham Road, Yungaburra.

A unique painting valued at over $300 by Yungaburra artist Katie Byrnes from At the Art Garage is on offer for the Lucky Door Prize.

Kicking off from 7am, local talent Aurelle Brunjes will perform throughout the morning with a mix of upbeat, empowering music.

Aurelle herself is an empowering woman in the community, tackling a life changing an auto-immune disease and making her name known in the Australian music industry.

She has released four original singles since 2021, with “Magpie” receiving over three thousand streams.

When she performs, the venue is packed out with locals and visitors alike coming together to dance and sing along to her covers and originals.

Throughout breakfast, two inspiring local women will take the floor to speak on how they have overcome adversity and succeeded in the world of business.

Using food to heal the mind, body and soul, Malanda’s Jo Whitton has used the power of gut healing to help heal her son’s severe OCD, anxiety and depression.

Spending tireless hours researching gut health to help her son and their family, she is now sharing her knowledge with people all over the world with her page “Quirky

Cooking”.

She now has three bestselling cookbooks and a range of essential spices which she will be selling at the event.

With designs so incredible even international fashion icon Jimmy Choo fell in love, Kuranda First Nation’s artist Briana Enoch has taken the world by storm with her Quandamooka collection.

The Jarawee label, which Briana launched in 2017, has been short-listed for many awards including the National Indigenous Fashion Awards, Fashion Designer Award and Textile Design Award, AusMumpreneur, Indigenous Business Excellence Award finalist, and Awards Australia – Community Achievement Award in the past few years alone.

Connecting her culture and her love for fashion, Briana is an inspiration to women across the country proving that if you believe you can, you will.

Special guest Ida Portella from Comedy Tours will MC and entertain guests all morning long.

The event will kick off at 7am on 8 March at the Mareeba Leagues Club with a full buffet breakfast.

Tickets are $40 per person, with all profits going to TSAS and can be purchased via https://www.trybooking.com/CFLCC.

Bookings close Tuesday 28 February.

Bank future not clear

WESTPAC has been unable to give its Mareeba and Atherton customers reassurance their branches will not close as the big bank gets ready to shut down the Port Douglas branch.

Plans to shut down the Tully branch were deferred last week as Westpac advised it would postpone eight regional branch closures announced this month.

“Westpac looks forward to working with the Senate References Committee Inquiry into regional banking services,” a spokesperson said.

“No further decisions on regional closures will be

made while we engage with the inquiry.

“We will, however, be continuing with our publicly announced branch co-location program, where we bring two branches and customer service teams together under one roof.

“These co-located branches allow us to invest and stay in communities and have been well received by customers in more than 30 locations.”

But the bank did not respond to direct questions by The Express as to whether the Mareeba and Atherton branches were on the chopping block in the future.

Guest speakers Briana Enoch and Jo Whitton, musician Aurelle Brunjes and MC Ida Portella will take centre stage at The Express Newspaper’s International Women’s Day breakfast on 8 March.

MAREEBA (AMAROO) EAST PARK PLAYGROUND OFFICIAL OPENING

Community members joined Mayor Angela Toppin, Councillors and Council Officers on Tuesday, 14 February 2023, to officially open the new Mareeba (Amaroo) East Park Playground

It was wonderful to come together as a community to celebrate this wonderful addition to the Mareeba Shire, and what better way than to celebrate with an icecream!

The Mareeba East Park playground is a result of Council's Parks and Open Spaces Strategy and Action Plan, which was a significant undertaking to identify achievable opportunities to improve liveability and community wellbeing in the Mareeba Shire

The playground has been constructed on an underdeveloped greenfield site and is the first step in a redesign of the entire location The park will be further developed, with input from residents, when funds become available

For additional information on Council’s Shirewide 3-year Action Plan for Parks & Open Spaces, visit Council's website and search "Parks & Open Spaces"

BUY BACK SHOP ADDS VALUE

MAREEBA SHIRE LIBRARY SERVICE

There are four libraries located within the Mareeba Shire, all providing an extensive variety of materials to borrow including books, videos, DVDs, music CDs, magazines, audio books, newspapers and games Internet and computer access, photocopying and children’s activities are also available

Since opening in August 2022, the Buy Back Shop, at the Mareeba Resource Recovery Centre, continues to add value to the community one valuable item at a time.

The Shop sells a range of secondhand items, including , bicycles, fishing gear, crockery, tables and chairs, has been well received by the community.

With valuable items diverted from landfill, it is a major step towards embedding the circular economy in Mareeba

The Buy Back Shop, located at the Mareeba Resource Recovery Centre, is open to the public every Saturday from 10am to 1pm

As the four libraries are all part of the one service, you can pick up and drop off resources at all four libraries interchangeably

All four libraries offer various programs that includes, Storytime, Mah Jong, Craft-a-Noon and Writing Groups

To find out more about the Library Service, read the Library Guide available on Council's website

Mareeba Shire Council provides a strong support network and a challengin g working environment, combined with flexible working conditions that enable our staff to enjoy all that our Shire has to offer

As an organisation which values its workforce, Council provides ongoing training, mentoring and support to employees and volunteers with a view to developing and retaining a happy, productive team

View current vacancies on Council's website

Deputy Mayor Cr Kevin Davies Cr Lachlan (Locky) Bensted Cr Daniel (Danny) Bird Cr Mary Graham Cr Mario Mlikota Cr Lenore Wyatt

Nicholas speaks to youth success

THE Lions Youth of the Year quest is back on again, with three students from St Stephen’s Catholic College taking on the challenge over the weekend.

The annual public speaking competition aims to bring up young and emerging leaders and judges participants on their leadership, citizenship, personality, academics, sporting and cultural, community involvement and general knowledge.

The Mareeba Club quest commenced on Saturday morning with each participant being interviewed by the judging panel. Later that evening, they were asked impromptu questions and delivered a speech.

Ella Daven, Nicholas Brammer and Manvir Kaur spent Saturday being interviewed and speaking in front of a judging panel of influential members of the community.

At the end of the night, it was Nicholas

who came out on top, with his speech on national servicemen and the different ways to serve.

The topic, one close to his heart, fascinated the audience and judging panel putting him through to the next round where we will compete against the best speakers in the region.

Director and Youth of the Year Coordinator Gilbert Teitzel congratulated each student on their efforts during the quest and said the best part was the announcement of Nicholas as winner.

“I think announcement of the winner is always the most exciting part, for the Club members particularly,” he said.

“But the prepared speeches were thought provoking and delivered well, so I would say was the best part.”

Nicholas will take on the Zone Final in Mareeba on Saturday 4 March.

Locals hopeful over Griffin Road repairs

BY ROBYN HOLMES

A NEED to repair drainage and road shoulders on Griffin Road has been acknowledged by Tablelands Regional Council, giving hope to residents something will be done to improve the road’s condition.

Residents said they attended meetings with Mayor Rod Marti, Deputy Mayor Kevin Cardew and Member for Hill Shane Knuth in the past week or so who had inspected the damage done to the road after heavy rainfall during January.

“Our concerns for the safety of, not only the pedestrians who like the challenge of walking Griffin Road, but the cyclists and the Red Earth

Palmerston Highway study underway

A $1.5 million study is underway to develop an upgrade strategy for the Palmerston Highway, a key Far Northern freight and transport route.

Transport and Main Roads will consult with key stakeholders and consider the viability and potential of:

club who exercise on the road,” a resident said.

“As residents, we don’t want to hurt someone or see someone hurt so the issues of the road and drainage need to be addressed.

“The Mayor has listened to us and will hopefully take on board some of our fears and our recommendations to help make it safe.”

TRC infrastructure and environment general manager Mark Vis said council had identified maintenance work that is required on the drainage and road shoulders on Griffin Road.

“The scope of work is being finalised and scheduled in consideration of our priorities and capacity to deliver,” he said.

• Intelligent transport systems (ITS) as a management tool for incidents and traffic

• Temporary storage area for vehicles involved in crashes

• A turnaround facility

• A helipad near the highway or off road, and

• Runaway truck or escape ramps.

Assistant Minister for Regional Roads Bruce Saunders said the Palmerston Highway Upgrade Strategy - Link Planning would build on previous studies, including the Cairns to Northern Tablelands Access Strategy, to consider potential upgrades.

“The Palmerston Highway between Innisfail and Millaa Millaa is a key freight corridor within

Far North District, and being the northern most Bdouble route, carries significant traffic,” Mr Saunders said.

“The study’s primary goal is to develop a short, medium and long-term upgrade strategy to improve the overall safety, reliability, capacity, transport efficiency, road performance, and flood resilience on the Palmerston Highway.”

He said the study would include an assessment of the highway, facilities and infrastructure to determine issues with the road.

“This project will enable increased safety, intersection upgrades and flood resilience on the Palmerston Highway by recommending a master plan for potential upgrades and developing a staged approach for any future works,” MR Saunders said.

Completion of the strategy is expected in early 2024. Parties interested in participating in consultation can email cairns.office@tmr.qld.gov.au or call 4045 7144.

RATE NOTICES ISSUED - DUE 17 March 2023

The half-yearly rate notices for the six month period ending 30 June 2023 have been issued The discount period closes on Friday 17 March 2023.

If you have not received your rate notice, please contact the Rates Department

HOW CAN I PAY MY RATES?

You can pay your rates in a number of ways. This includes BPay, Australia Post Billpay, EFTPOS including debit and credit card, cash and cheque. To receive the discount, you need to ensure that any transactions are processed and funds cleared into Council’s bank account on or before the discount date.

Australia Post: Pay safely and securely in person at any Australia Post Office, pay by cash, cheque or credit card (Visa and Mastercard only).

Australia Post By Phone: Call 13 18 16 at any time of the day for the cost of a local call (within Australia). Visa and MasterCard are accepted, normal call charges apply from public phones, mobile phones and overseas phones.

Australia Post Billpay: Visit postbillpay.com.au. Use the BillPay Code (4068) and use your BillPay Reference Number (found on your most current rate notice).

By Cheque: Post a cheque to Mareeba Shire Council, PO Box 154 MAREEBA QLD 4880.

BPay: Call your financial institution (or by logging onto their website) to pay your rates by cheque or savings account, BPAY Biller Code 228171 and your customer reference number that is found on the bottom of your rate notice in the BPAY box.

In Person: Mareeba - 65 Rankin Street. Open Monday to Friday 8.30am - 4.30pm (Thursday opening 9.00am). Phone 1300 308 461. Kuranda - 18-22 Arara Street. Council business conducted Monday to Friday, 10.00am - 4.30pm.

DO YOU KNOW ABOUT OUR PAYMENT ARRANGEMENTS?

To help ease the financial burden, Council has a payment arrangement scheme available provided the total amount outstanding is paid by 30 June 2023. This allows you to pay a nominated weekly, fortnightly or monthly amount towards the rates and other charges. You will only receive the 10 per cent discount, if the full amount of rates and charges is paid by Friday 17 March 2023.

Contact Council’s Rates Department for further information. Discount will not be allowed if payment is not received at Council’s Customer Service Centres at the above times by the due date. A pensioner rebate may also apply to those holders of a State Government Pensioner Concession Card or Repatriation Gold Card.

Peter Franks Chief Executive Officer PO Box 154 MAREEBA QLD 4880

Ella Daven, Nicholas Brammer and Manvir Kaur with Lions Youth coordinators Gilbert Teitzel and Gary Searle on Saturday night.

Careers forum for young Tablelanders

YOUNG people will be connected with local employers in the health and social assistance, primary industry and retail sectors at a Tablelands Regional Council-hosted Careers Forum early next month.

“The forum is part of our multi-stage Tablelands Tomorrow program and will improve awareness, create stronger connections, and identify programs and referrals pathways to universities, training, industry and

community programs,” Mayor Rod Marti said.

“By raising the profile of indemand skills in our region and connecting them to young Tablelanders, we can provide linkages to jobs, work placements, and volunteer and study opportunities.

“The forum will be an opportunity to network with employers, industry and training providers to better understand their career, training and employment

pathways and for employers/industry to present themselves and their career opportunities.”

The Tablelands Careers Forum, which is targeted at young people aged 15–24 years, will

be on Wednesday 1 March from 10am-1.30pm at the Coordination Centre, 15 Vernon Street, Atherton.

This project is funded by the Australian Government’s National Careers Institute (NCI) Partnerships Grant.

Library services focus of survey

LIBRARY services offered by Tablelands Regional Council are the focus of a new survey as the organisation seeks to develop a new strategy for the community facilities.

Council’s seven libraries remain very popular, with 97,145 library visits and 162,421 items issued in the 2021-22 financial year.

Deputy Mayor Kevin Cardew urged everyone to feed into the survey to improve the library service.

“We’re developing a new Library Strategy

and we’d like to know what you think about the services our libraries provide, what is important to you about your local library, and what you’d like to see into the future,” he said.

“We even want to hear from people who don’t use our library services.”

Those who wish to provide input can do that at one of the library branches or go online (www. trc.qld.gov.au/engagement-portal) and complete the survey.

The survey closes on 26 February.

Tourism venture gains approval

A PROPOSAL to establish tourist cabins on a Speewah property has been approved by Mareeba Shire Council.

The project, to be established at a 35-hectare property on Speewah Road, involves setting up two cabins that will have a shower, toilet, kitchen, living area and a bedroom with a deck.

Property owner Dan Mackenzie was thrilled the application was approved and planned to start setting up the first cabin as soon as possible.

New principal for Herberton college

WITH 30 years of experience behind her, Narelle Hunt has taken on the role of principal at Herberton’s Mount St Bernard College.

With only one objection to the proposal, Cr Locky Benstead asked what impact the project would have on the visual amenity of neighbours.

Senior planner Brian Millard said he did not envisage any issues, with the closest neighbour about 150m away and the block heavily vegetated.

The cabins will be promoted as ecologically friendly, with rainwater tanks to provide water, solar (off-grid) power and onsite effluent disposal.

Ms Hunt, who has taught in both catholic and public schools across Queensland and Victoria, has a passion for inclusive education and has embraced the diversity of the school, striving to ensure equitable educational opportunities for all students.

With a Masters in Education, Special Needs, and a Masters in Instructional Leadership, Narelle has the academic skills and knowledge of evidence based strategies and data informed practices to ensure she can build the teachers’ capacity to improve student outcomes.

She values the partnerships that can be

made with families and community members and looks forward to being able to participate in the remote visits to communities to meet with the families.

“Mount St Bernard College is an incredible place to commence my first principalship,” she said.

“The students are incredibly friendly and genuinely enjoy being at the College.

“The staff are innovative and engaging educators who have the best interest of their students at heart.

“This is a place where we can really make a difference through the provision of quality education delivered by caring and compassionate staff.”

Love gives students a sweet reason to fundraise

IT was all about love last Tuesday, with students from Mareeba State High School and Dimbulah State School celebrating Valentine’s Day by selling roses, cupcakes and cookies.

The Mareeba High student council sold roses, cookies and cupcakes to their peers, allowing them to show their appreciation for their friends, high school sweethearts and teachers whilst raising money for the student council.

AT Dimbulah State School, the walkways were decorated with hearts, with the student council organising a card and a chocolate for by every student and staff member in the small school on Valentine’s Day.

Raquel France, Amber Jerome, Mackenzie Stephens, Breanna Gambino, Bella Ford, Jashana Jackson and Kelli Scott sold roses on the day.

Bella Ford and Kelli Scott were all smiles on Valentine’s Day.

Lachlan Costa, Jared Latif and Michael Slabbert.

Hall history sought to mark 80 year milsetone

HISTORICAL photographs, documents and information about Atherton’s Merriland Hall are being sought as the facility marks its 80th anniversary this year.

The Atherton Show Society is calling on locals to share any and all information, photos, historical recounts and documents they may have about Merriland Hall over its eight decades of life for a special anniversary due to take place at the end of the year.

Merriland Hall was constructed in 1943 and was formerly a military store depot for the troops stationed around the Tablelands.

The hall was added to the Queensland Heritage Register in 2000 for the important role it played in World War II and because it was also the largest

igloo of its kind erected on the Tablelands and one of the few that remained on its initial site.

Merriland Hall played host to a variety of events and functions from military purposes during the war to the annual Atherton Show, debutante balls, weddings and cabarets.

The show society is planning on throwing a whole day and night full of events and experiences to celebrate the iconic structure and is asking the community for help.

“We are seeking any information from people who have been involved with the hall over the years,” show society secretary Vicki Baylis said.

“We are also looking for any information surrounding the 50th anniversary of the hall as there were a number of celebrations to mark the event.

“Photographs are also being sought so we can copy them and create a timeline of the hall’s history.”

Any information on the hall can be emailed to info@athertonshow.com.au or by calling the office on 4091 4260.

Feedback wanted on new Douglas splash park

THE Port Douglas community are being asked to choose between two potential locations for the town’s new splash park.

Council secured funding to build a splash park and is working towards delivering the project in 2024 while also investigating the community’s appetite for a second public swimming pool.

There are two locations being considered – Jalunbu Park behind the Port Douglas Surf Life Saving Club and Reynolds Park, on Davidson Street.

Feedback is being sought about the preferred location and key features to inform

the design during an extensive engagement schedule in February 2023.

Douglas Shire Mayor Michael Kerr said council wanted feedback on which location is the best and why.

“We are investigating building an aquatic precinct at one of these locations so we would like the community to tell us their top choice and what features they would like to see,” he said.

“Council will use this information to create a nature-based design and build a zero-depth water play area that reflects our beautiful natural environment and is suit-

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able for a world-class tourism town.

“We will also be asking the community whether they believe a second public swimming pool is needed and providing further details about anticipated financial impacts on council’s budgets.

“Already more than 300 people have registered their interest via council’s website which is fantastic to see.”

People can register for Port Douglas Aquatic Precinct project updates at a dedicated webpage here douglas.qld.gov.au/ port-douglas-splash-park

ESTABLISHED 1972

A photo of Merriland Hall under construction in 1943. Photo supplied Australian War Memorial.

New wheels for meals

A NEW vehicle will help Atherton Meals on Wheels to deliver its food to clients right across the southern Tablelands.

The new Nissan X-trail will be used on some of the group’s longest delivery runs, such as the Yungaburra one which is a 67km round trip three days per week, the Malanda run which is 65km, and the Tolga which is a 62km round trip three days a week.

The vehicle will also be useful when training

new volunteers and also to collect groceries and locally-sourced produce used in the preparation of the meal service.

Meals on Wheels Atherton are also seeking new volunteers, particularly anyone who can spare a couple of hours on a Monday, Wednesday or Friday once a week, once a fortnight or even once a month.

To contact the group, call 4091 1686 or drop in and see them inside the Atherton Showgrounds.

Do your family a

A SPECIAL event will be held in Tolga on 4 March to celebrate International Women’s Day.

CWA Tolga Branch and The Tablelands Soroptimist Club have combined to host the event which will include a brunch from 10am at the CWA Hall at Tolga.

Guest speakers include Peter Cummins from Tableland Tech who will give a presentation relating to “Women in Technology” and safe use of the Internet, and Renata Wendell, a Yungaburra resident originally from Germany, will share some of her life’s experiences.

There will be Raffle and Lucky Door prizes to be won and Harvey Norman is generously supporting the event with $300 worth of vouchers. Limited tickets will be on sale, priced at $20, which are available from Turner Agencies, Main St, Atherton.

Don’t become a victim of scams

SADLY, it is a common occurrence for people to attend the front counter of a Police Station who has fallen victim to a scam.

Everyone is vulnerable to scams, so everyone needs information about how to identify and avoid being scammed. Some people think that only the gullible fall victim to scams.

The truth is scammers are clever and if you don’t know what to look out for, anyone can fall victim to a scam.

Scammers are getting smarter, moving with the times taking advantage of new technology, new products or services to create believable stories to convince you to part with your money or personal details.

The best way to protect yourself is through awareness and education. Scams come in many shapes and sizes.

The most common are investment scams, threat and penalty scams, unexpected money scams, prize and lottery scams, online shopping scams, scams targeting computers and mobile devices and identity theft.

Don’t be pressured by a threatening caller, email or text. A government agency or trusted company will never ask you to pay by unusual methods. The scammer may call, email or text threatening you with arrest or send you an email claiming you owe money for a speeding fine, a tax office debt or an unpaid bill. This is a scam!

Do not use the contact details provided in emails, text, email or given to you during phone calls. And never ever agree to transfer money to another account before you have completed your own research.

Let’s get ahead of these scammers!! Protect yourself and register with the Scamwatch subscription service to receive free email alerts on

new scams doing the rounds. www.scamwatch. gov.au

Please, if you encounter a scam on a website or social media platform, report it to the site so it can be investigated and removed, let them know so they can warn others.

You need to protect yourself against these scams.

1. Think twice – if a deal looks too good to be true, it probably is. If someone asks you to pay money up-front to receive a prize or winnings, it’s almost always a scam.

2. Investigate – Do an internet search using the names, winnings or contact details on the email to check for any references to a scam –many scams can be identified this way.

3. Protect your identity – your personal details are private and invaluable; keep them that way and away from scammers.

4. Only pay via secure payment methods –never send money, use a wire transfer service, or give credit cards, online details, or copies of important documents to anyone you don’t know or trust.

Look for a web address starting with ‘https’ and a closed padlock symbol.

How to protect yourself go to: http://www. scamwatch.gov.au/content/index.phtml/tag/ HowToProtectYourself

Little black book of scams: http://www. accc.gov.au/publications/the-little-black-bookof-scams

How to recognise a scam go to: http:// www.scamwatch.gov.au/content/index.phtml/ tag/SeeaScamSamples

How to report a scam go to: https://www. scamwatch.gov.au/content/index.phtml/tag/reportascam

Atherton Harvey Norman co-owners Michelle Jarvis and Mark Pigdon are pleased to support CWA and Soroptimists International Women’s Day with $300 of vouchers for the raffle. Pictured are Harvey Norman staff members Tiffany and Savannah with Soroptimist Mary Lyle.

New park a big hit with locals

Be part of Savannah in the Round

THE region’s biggest music festival is set to return in October with plans to be bigger and better than ever and local volunteers and vendors are being sought to help run the event and showcase their produce at Savannah in the Round 2023.

Many different volunteer groups participated in last year’s monumental festival and gained exposure for their respective groups whilst assisting in the running of the event.

Interest is again being sought for these crucial helpers with special rewards on offer for those who put up their hands.

Volunteers will gain a season festival ticket, a dedicated campsite in the volunteer camp zone and a souvenir volunteer Tshirt.

A diverse mix of vendors are also being sought for this year’s festival to provide a range of different foods and drinks to patrons.

For more information about volunteering head to https://tickets.savannahintheround.com.au/ forms/volunteers/ and to learn more about becoming a vendor at this year’s festival head to https:// tickets.savannahintheround.com.au/forms/stalls

FREE ice cream, new playground equipment and perfect weather were all factors of a successful official opening of the new Mareeba (Amaroo) East Park.

Mareeba Shire councillors joined local families at the park located at Amaroo Estate and spent the afternoon testing out the new equipment and taking an advantage of the free ice cream on offer.

Mareeba Shire Councillors cut the ribbon, officially opening the Amaroo Park.

Isabel and Hayden Gear loved the free ice cream.

Annie Bensted, Bella and Max Quartermaine on the slide.

Siblings Jakari, Dalngan and Juran Grogan spent the afternoon enjoying free ice cream.

“We love ice cream!” Brooklyn and Cartelle Bates said.

Local broker wins two major awards

THE Tablelands is now home to not only Australia’s best brokerage but a twotime regional broker of the year after Mareeba born John Contarino was named Excellence Awardee for 2022 – Broker of The Year – Regional, while his business, Mobile Finance Broker was named Excellence Awardee for 2022 – Brokerage of The Year – Regional.

Just a few short years after starting his own business, Mr Contarino has been named the regional Nextgen broker of the year in the 2022 Australian Mortgage Awards just a year after being named Gold Winner Broker of the Year – Regional.

Mr Contarino has spent the better half of his working life in the finance industry and has worked at multiple banks across the Far North.

However, he finally settled on opening his own mortgage brokering business in Atherton where he has continued to service the community for the past five years.

This year along with his own personal accolade, Mobile Finance Broker was named Regional Brokerage of the Year and Mr Contarino said it would never have been possible without the help of his business partner and his staff.

“It feels a bit surreal having these successive awards recognise the work we do, especially since these awards are pulled from all around Australia,” he said.

“I could never have done it without the other broker, Tony Carroll and Tracy Robinson who has just completed her certificate four and is studying to be a broker but we call her the practice manager.

The awards are judged and awarded on a number of different factors which include google reviews, the growth of the business, customer satisfaction and feedback from other businesses who have worked with the broker or brokerage before.

Sherryn R - I have known John for many years and when it came time for me to buy a new home, I did not hesitate in contacting John because I knew without a doubt that he would look a er me. John always provides great customer service, is very honest and straightforward and was crystal clear with everything from my initial enquiry to settlement. He is clearly passionate about what he does and he has a genuine interest in helping people with their lending needs. e whole Mobile Broker Team was fantastic and were so easy to deal with. ey assisted me every step of the way and maintained consistent communication throughout the whole process. A special mention to Tony who went through all the documentation with me and answered any questions I had. John and the whole team at Mobile Finance Brokers are exceptional. A huge thank you from me. Highly recommended!!!

China Coyle - We’d like to say a MASSIVE thank you to John and the team for their help securing nance for our new home. It was an absolute pleasure working with Mobile Finance Brokers. John and the team went above and beyond for us. Being self-employed and having just been through the nancial slump of lockdowns etc. Our loan application was an endless run of hoops to jump through, but they made it a seamless process. Even with the added di culty of a knock back previously due to a low-quality application from another broker, leaving us with just a couple of weeks le to secure nance.

John was unfazed by the pressure and worked at the speed of light to get across the line with a couple of days to spare. One thing we know for sure is we would not have secured our dream property without the help of John and the team at Mobile Finance Brokers. Finally, I should also mention, they did all of this for us while we were living interstate - once again BIG THANKS.

Cecil D - My wife and I have just purchased our fourth property using Tony, John and Tracy from Mobile Finance Brokers in Atherton as our consultants. ey were very professional as usual giving advice and achieving nance in this changing economic market. Kerry and I recommend using the team from Mobile Finance Brokers for your real estate nance.

Tahnee and Craig Rapson - We are now rst home owners thank you to the Mobile Finance Broker team but a er a long he y search trying to nd the right persons to help us accomplish our life long dream we were referred to John and his team and it was full steam ahead from then. Our dreams of owning our rst home have come true with the hard endless work that the team put into our application to the bank, making our own aspirations their own. John and his team were not only professional in everything they did, but passionate. ey kept us in the loop of each stage to home ownership and there was nothing the team couldn’t do. e due diligence the team o ered throughout the whole process was beyond anything we could have imagined, the professionalism John and his team showed was more than we could have ever expected. We are grateful for what you and your team have helped us achieve John. You have been a blessing in disguise to our little family. ank you for everything Mobile Finance Broker, you were all pleasantly amazing to deal with and the whole process was seamless knowing we have you on our side.

Matthew R - John, Tony and Tracy worked hard to secure the best rate for our mortgage. John kept in contact through the life of the mortgage and was very helpful right up to the end when we sold and closed the account. His skills and eagerness to help has gained him a customer for life. Highly recommend the team at Mobile Finance Broker.

Mobile Finance Broker was named Brokerage of the Year at the 2022 Australian Mortgage Awards while broker John Contarino was named Regional Broker of the Year. Pictured is John with his award, practice manager Tracy Robertson and other broker Tony Carroll holding the brokerage award.

Our Council Our Community

Projects & Programs Update

The following projects and programs will commence, continue or be completed in March (weather permitting):

• slashing in Beatrice, Carrington, Ellinjaa, Innot Hot Springs, Jaggan, Kairi, Maalan, Millstream, Moregatta, Mungalli, Peeramon, Ravenshoe, Tarzali, Tolga and Walkamin

• grading in Gunnawarra, Meadowbank and Mount Garnet

• replacement of Duncan Brown bridge in Malanda

• sealing of sections of Mehmet Road in Tolga, and Claringbold Road at Upper Barron

• drain maintenance in Atherton, Kairi, Tolga and Walkamin.

Follow these and other projects and programs at trc.qld.gov.au/projects

Tablelands Careers Forum

We are hosting a careers forum to connect the community with local employers in the health and social assistance, primary industry and retail sectors. The forum is a chance to meet with local employers to learn about employment, job placement, volunteering and training opportunities. You’ll also find out about indemand skills in our region, and where to access university, training, industry and community programs.

10.00am–1.30pm Wednesday 1 March at the Coordination Centre, 15 Vernon Street, Atherton. This project received funding from the Australian Government.

Event Management Training

Are you an event organiser or are you planning a new event in our region? We are hosting free event management training to provide the necessary knowledge, tools and resources to deliver high-quality, successful and sustainable events. The program is over two days and you must attend both days.

9am–3pm Saturday 11 and Sunday 12 March at the Coordination Centre, 15 Vernon Street in Atherton. Register your interest by Monday 6 March at trc.qld.gov.au/event-management

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

Volunteers Appreciated & Wanted

Malanda Falls Information Centre is looking for volunteers to donate a few hours a week. Get in touch if you’d like to share your knowledge and love of the Tablelands, meet new people, and have fun! Find out more and apply at trc.qld.gov.au/volunteer, or drop into the information centre.

What Weeds Are You Treating?

Biosecurity is everyone’s responsibility and controlling weeds at the right time with the right methods is efficient and effective. March is the best time to treat Candy Leaf, Water Lettuce, Lions Tail, Giant Sensitive Plant, Gamba Grass, Giant Rats Tail Grass (and other Sporobolus species), Miconia, Parthenium and Salvinia. Find out how to treat these weeds and more from our Tablelands Biosecurity Plan at trc.qld.gov.au/tablelands-biosecurity-plan

Rates

Rate notices will be arriving in mailboxes and inboxes from Friday 24 February, with payments due on Monday 27 March to be eligible for the 5% discount. Visit trc.qld.gov.au/rates to find out about payment options, concessions and adjustments.

Exhibit In Our Galleries

We are accepting expressions of interest to exhibit in one of our three galleries in 2024. Groups and individuals can apply until Sunday 30 April at trc.qld.gov.au/exhibit-local-gallery

Next Council Meetings

9am Thursday 6 March (Planning Committee)

9am Thursday 23 March (ordinary meeting) Coordination Centre, 15 Vernon Street, Atherton. The meetings are live streamed and recorded. See socials and trc.qld.gov.au/meetings for agendas, minutes, recordings and live stream links.

Customer service centres in Atherton, Herberton, Malanda and Ravenshoe.

St Thomas’ School community congratulates the School Leaders for 2023

Our school leaders were inducted at the annual Opening School Mass on Wednesday 8th February. School Captains Thomas Gilbert and Jessica Bielenkova, O’Connor House Captains Timur Bielienkov and Harlea Browning, Phelan House Captains Holly Power and Jana Bordeos, Power House Captains Ayman Abdalla and Alexandra St Clare and Mills House Captains Alice Simms and Reece Gobus, have undertaken their new roles exemplifying their leadership skills with pride.

It is a true honour to be recognised by their peers as students who can demonstrate the special qualities required in serving as leaders in our school. Our school leaders will represent St Thomas’ at various school and community events throughout the year. We are confident our Leaders will fulfil their positions at St Thomas’ with enthusiasm, responsibility and commitment. We wish them all the very best and look forward to a rewarding year ahead.

Atherton State High School Student Leaders

Alis aquilae

- On Eagle’s Wings

Our 2023 student leaders are soaring on eagles’ wings, making a difference by promoting school culture, connectedness, inclusiveness and contribution.

Representing the voice and aspirations of our student body, our captains and student council leaders demonstrate pride in self, school and community. They are encouraging others to unite by giving back through participating in cultural and community events, contributing ideas and innovations, and giving service for the benefit of others.

Our leaders live our school values every day, demonstrating what we can achieve when we are respectful, responsible, successful, and safe.

Congratulations to the Senior Leaders at Mareeba State High School in 2023. They have chosen the theme this year of “Together We Can”. They will be actively involved in the development of a strong learning culture that focuses on student voice along with reconceptualising facility solutions to meet the needs of students. We welcome the following leaders: School Captains: Jack Fealy and Cassia James. Vice Captains: Lachlan Costa and Kelli Scott Student Council: President Jarad Latif, Vice President Abby Campman, Secretary Talisha Falvo, Treasurer Matthew Heggie. Indigenous Captains: Tanisha Hastie and Natahlia Grogan. Student Voice Jack Kruse.

Vice Captain Lily Bidner Captain Will Gibson Captain Isabel Kidner Vice Captain Jessie Stathooles

Photo L-R: Leanne Knight-Smith (Principal), Morgan Grimshaw (School Vice-Captain), Imogen Kelly (School Vice-Captain), Bethany Bailey (Student Council Vice President and Secretary), Bianca le Gear (Student Council President), Mia Cox (School Captain), Cameron Colless (Student Council Treasurer) and Oscar Byrne (School Captain).

Back Row (From left): Principal Mr Paul Rayner, Alice Simms, Reese Gobus, Thomas Gilbert, Jessica Bielienkova, Alexandra St Clare, Ayman Abdalla. Front Row (From left): Timur Bielienkov, Harlea Browning, Jana Bordeos, Holly Power.

MALANDA High School

Malanda State High School welcomes our new senior captains in Yaseen Al Kahlout and Mia Cavanagh. Our Junior captains are Aaryn Russo and Laura Shaughnessy. They will be amazing role models and ambassadors for our school both at school daily and at representative functions.

Malanda High is a place to excel and all of these students will bring a wide and varied perspective to the matters that effect student wellbeing and success at our school.

We look forward to forging a wonderful leadership partnership.

2023 COLLEGE CAPTAINS

St Stephen’s Catholic College would like to introduce and congratulate our 2023 College Captains – Eva McLennan, Caitlin Wadley, Milan Maloberti and Nicholas Brammer. Leadership is judged on the actions an individual takes not necessarily the words they use. The elected leaders of this college have been chosen because of the leadership attributes they have and what they said they would do for our community. Each Captain has responsibilities to meet and the legacy of past leaders to uphold. Leaders look for change to reach outcomes, they don’t believe in the status quo, they push the boundaries of what is capable and look for new ways to reach the desired destination. They are thinkers, dreamers, positive and have a never say “no” or “can’t” attitude.

The College Captains and other elected leaders are called to servant leadership, just like Jesus Christ. This leadership requires an individual to be humble, a good listener, show empathy and compassion, to inspire trust by being sincere and have the ultimate integrity. Again we congratulate our College Captains and other elected Senior Leaders for 2023.

From The Principal

Congratulations to all students of Dimbulah State School P-10 who have committed to a leadership role for 2023.

Our school belief is that leadership is an integral component of student learning and development.

At Dimbulah State School P-10, our student leaders are provided with many planned activities which enable them to develop and refine their skills through formal training and everyday experiences.

Our student leaders are also involved in the planning and delivery of many lunchtime, sporting and extra-curriuclar activities across the school year.

Congratulations students!

“At Jubilee Christian College we seek to foster a safe and caring atmosphere where each student feels respected. We value integrity, honesty and service to others. Our 2023 College Captains demonstrate these characteristics and have established themselves as outstanding role models for our younger students.

We congratulate Ziya Nand, Matthew Walker and Hannah Houldsworth on being selected as Jubilee College Captains for 2023. We look forward to having these students serve as our College Ambassadors both throughout the school and the wider community.”

SCHOOL CAPTAINS

Primary: Scout Sheppard and Malakai Wilkinson.

Secondary: Amaya Goldsworthy and Lara Martin.

ENTERTAINMENT

New drama on screen

THERE is nothing better than seeing a great movie on the Majestic Theatre big screen and this week, Steven Spielberg’s new drama masterpiece, “The Fablemans” will be showing.

The film, which has been nominated for many Academy awards, stars Michele Williams and Paul Dano and is set in post WWII Arizona.

This movie is loosely based on Steven Spielberg’s childhood, growing up in Arizona.

The Marvel Studio’s super-hero action adventure comedy, “The Ant-Man And The Wasp: Quantumania”, continues for another magnificent weekend.

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

Country music club celebrates 25 years of singing on the Tablelands

FOR the past 25 years, the Tablelands Country Music Club has been bringing their music to the stage at the Mareeba Leagues Club.

The group, which was formed 39 years ago, promotes country music in the Tablelands region and has bought up some of the biggest names in local talent including Becci Nethery and Albina Nucifora.

The group often meet and perform at the Mareeba Leagues Club and president of the country music club, Sheila Moody, expressed how grateful she was for their support.

To celebrate, the country music club will be hosting a free family day on 26 February, with music to kick off at 12pm to 5pm and welcome country music lovers from near and far to come along.

Ms Moody is one of the only remaining original members of the country music group and has watched it grow and expand over the past almost four decades.

“(The club) started as a way to promote country music on the Tablelands,” she said.

“A lot of us were involved with the Cairns Country Music Club and it was decided that we should open our own club up here and support each other that way.”

The club now have their own band “Rusty Strings” and being their passion of music to a new town every month to perform and chat with locals about country music.

The group is always welcoming new members to join in. For more information on how to join in, call Ms Moody on 0421 771 233.

Apply now to exhibit your art

ARTISTS are being encouraged to apply to exhibit their work at one of three galleries within Tablelands Regional Council.

The council is inviting expressions of interest for 2024 exhibitions in their three galleries.

“Groups and individuals can apply to exhibit in the Tableland Regional Gallery, Old Post Office Gallery and Foyer Gallery,” Cr Peter Hodge said.

“We’re keen to see EOIs from new individuals and groups, and we encourage local artists and those from outside our region to apply.”

Artist Alison Faigniez says sharing her work with other artists and the commu-

nity is the best motivator to keep creating.

“Exhibiting is a great way to bring your work out of the studio as it looks so different from being stacked against the wall,” she said.

“When I see my work hanging in the gallery it makes me think, ‘Wow, did I really do all this?’, and selling a piece is the best feeling.

“There’s a lot of preparatory work involved but it’s so worth it and I got lots of support and encouragement from the gallery staff.

“I’ve learnt a lot about presentation and what affects and intrigues gallery visitors — I love talking with them about my inspiration and techniques,” Alison said.

Expressions of interest must be received by Sunday 30 April and exhibition, gallery and application information is available at trc.qld. gov.au/galleries.

https://www.trybooking.com/CFNZV

All concerts begin at 6:30pm and include an interlude by locally born violinist Dr. Khalida De Ridder where she will perform one of the Bach Solo Sonatas and Partitas.

Artist Alison Faigniez says sharing her work with other artists and the community

is the best motivator to keep creating.

Tablelands Country Music Club members Alan Prince, Guy Kroonstruiver, Carmel Butler and Gerry Mier are looking forward to celebrating the club’s anniversary.

ON LANDthe

Best dairy cows photo comp

A $100 prize awaits for the best landscape picture of dairy cows and views of the dairy, thanks to a photo competition launched by eastAUSmilk.

Only members of eastAUSmilk can enter the competition which closes on 31 March.

The organisation is offering $100 prize money for the best

high resolution landscape (sideways) format photo of dairy cows, views of the dairy and surrounds.

Those who wish to enter can send their high-res photos (with a narration of the photo) to ea@ eastausmilk.org.au. All photos will be judged, and the winner will be announced in mid April.

Support for banana growers

BANANA growers will continue to receive support to invest in the future of their farming businesses, and the health of the Great Barrier Reef, thanks to new funding for the Banana Best Management Practice (BMP) program.

The Queensland Government has committed $3.76 million to Banana BMP, allowing the program to continue until at least 2026.

The Banana BMP project, which began in 2018, is delivered by the Australian Banana Growers’ Council (ABGC). It supports growers to self-assess their own practices, and where possible, make improvements based on expert advice.

ABGC chair Stephen Lowe said he was pleased the Queensland Government had made such a significant investment to support the state’s banana growers.

“This will allow growers to

continue to implement best management practice on their farms,” he said.

“It is a practical example of the government backing growers to farm sustainably in the Wet Tropics and Cape York. Our growers are embracing practices that are critical for productivity and profitability, but also for improving water quality.

“We take our role as land stewards for the next generation very seriously, and this investment is further evidence of that.”

In the previous phase of the project, more than 2500 hectares of banana production saw changes to farming practices. This represents more than 25 per cent of the total area under bananas in reef catchments.

Growers interested in finding out more about grants or the Banana BMP project more broadly can email bmp@abgc.org.au

Avos ripe for the picking

BY RHYS THOMAS

OVER four million trays of avocados are expected to be packed by one local company in Tolga as Australian growers gear up for some of their busiest and potentially most successful growing seasons in recent memory.

In North Queensland, the avocado season typically starts in late January depending on fruit maturity and can run until July but some varieties are still picked well into the later months.

The season then rotates to different districts across Australia including Bundaberg’s which typically overlaps with North Queensland’s growing season.

Pack Centre in Tolga is one of the region’s biggest exporters of avocados with roughly 1.5 million trays expected to go through its doors this season alone with estimates that could rise to four million in the next five years.

As well as being one of the biggest distributors of avocados in the north, Pack Centre director Matthew Kleyn is also the Avocados Australia North Queensland director and represents the North Queensland region.

Pack Centre packs avocadoes for Mr Kleyn’s own farm, Lakeshore, as well as a handful of other farms in the area and distributes them up and down Australia’s east coast.

The two main varieties grown on the Tablelands are Shepard and Hass, with

one major difference between the two, the latter’s skin becomes purple when ripe and ready to eat, while Shepard’s remain green.

These two varieties are the main avocados that Pack Centre manage and are sold separately under different brand names to help the consumer better understand which avocado should be eaten when.

Mr Kleyn said while the avocado industry is already a big earner for not only the Tablelands but also North Queensland, it is currently growing at an exponential rate.

“The avocado industry is a big money earner for North Queensland and for the Tablelands and it is radically growing,” Mr Kleyn said.

“We are just in a transition period at the moment, we are just finishing the Western Australian and New Zealand Hass and the consumer outlets are transitioning to Shepard.

“Shepard is an early variety, so there is no other variety ready from now until April or May.

Because avocados are currently in the transition period from Hass to Shepard, prices could rise however it is solely dependent on supply and demand and millions of Shepard avocados will soon line the shelves of supermarkets across the country.

“Hopefully it settles at a place good for the grower and the consumer,” Mr Kleyn said.

“I would like them to be dearer, the consumer would like them to be cheaper and it would be nice to meet somewhere in the middle.

“If they were $1 each they would not be around for long because no one could afford to grow them.”

The popularity of the fruit and its price in recent years has pushed many growers to either plant more trees or completely swap their existing produce in favour of growing avocados.

However, since avocado trees take about six years to fully develop and produce fruit, much of the fruit is still yet to hit the market and numbers are expected to rise over the coming few years, potentially flooding the market.

With the expected increase in avocadoes the domestic market will be flooded and many growers are expecting a glut in prices.

To counteract this, many farmers, Pack Centre included, have started looking elsewhere to send their produce so exports has become a major component of the local avocado industry.

“There are a lot of trees not in full production and there is a lot more fruit coming so we are all working on export markets and that is very important for Australia,” Mr Kleyn said.

“If there is a big glut at some point, the industry will suffer, and growers will pull out so it would be better if we could create new markets.”

Pack Centre director and Avocados Australia North Queensland director Matthew Kleyn with just one of the millions of trays of avocados that will soon be making their way out of Pack Centre in Tolga.

ON LANDthe

Low prices kick off first sales of 2023

SALE SUMMARY...

• Total yarding 312 head including 31 head sold by Open Auction

• Yard averaged 263.02c/kg averaging $826.60/head

• 39 Bulls averaged 185.5c/kg selling to a top of 266.2c/kg

• 0 Bobby Calves 0c/kg to a top of 0c/kg

• 78 Cows averaged 245.9c/kg to a top of 274.2.2c/kg

• 15 Steers averaged 314.6c/kg selling to a top of 364.2c/kg

• 20 Heifers averaged 258.4c/kg selling to a top of 278.2c/kg

• 21 Yearling bulls averaged 270.8c/kg selling to a top of 326.2c/kg

• 72 Yearling heifers averaged 265.8c/kg selling to a top of 376.2c/kg

• 36 Yearling steers averaged 381.4c/kg selling to a top of 460.2c/kg

• 1+1 cows and calves @ $950

• 1+1 cows and calves @ $1150

• 4+4 cows and calves @ $700

• 25+24 cows and calves @ $1900

VENDORS, bidders and spectators were shocked by the significantly low prices seen at the first Mareeba cattle sale of the year.

A total yarding of 312 head from across the Tablelands were on offer, going for an average of 263.02c/kg or $826.60/head.

Many buyers and spectators were shocked by how “cheap” cattle were going for, compared to last year’s record breaking first sales of the year of an average price of 497.03c/kg or $1,593.08/ head.

Quality beef still stood out amongst them though, with a pen of 11 brown yearling steer that had the highest price of about 462c/kg ranking the highest in the sales.

Although prices were low, Elder’s branch manager Mark Peters was impressed with the turnout.

“People are always keen on how the market might go when there hasn’t been one for a couple of months,” he said.

“300 head of cattle is not a bad number to get started with and we have had years where we have started with only 30 or 40 head… but getting the

market underway sort of gets things going.

“Whether you’re selling cattle or buying cattle, everyone wants to know the same thing – ‘what are they are going to make this week?’ and the result this week is the good cattle have been very good and for the lesser quality cattle are where they are, and you get two opposite ends of the spectrum.”

There are high hopes for the remainder of the year, with sellers and bidders waiting on the wet season to finish so cattle from the Cape and Gulf can join the selection.

As the market value continues to alter, Mr Peter’s said he hopes to see a decent yardage this year but isn’t expecting record prices like last year.

“We had an extraordinary selling season last year with nearly 60,000 head but I don’t think that’s the likelihood this year,” he said.

“I just don’t think the supply of cattle will amount to that many from the area the cattle are drawn from.”

The next sale will take place on 28 February at the Mareeba Saleyards.

Elder’s branch manager and auctioneer Mark Peters at the Mareeba Sales.

11 brown yearling steer stood out amongst the rest.

Mareeba salesyard worker Cody Dugmore, buyer and seller Brett Simmonds and manager Wayne Martin.

Tree planting decision shows council is out of touch

TABLELAND Regional Councillors have really lost the plot. In June last year, after the rail trail was resurfaced from Beantree Road to Tolga, I informed the TRC that the trail between Beantree Road and Grove Street was also in need of resurfacing.

“We do a bit every year” was the answer. I then proceeded to point out the issues in various places and how much more it would cost to repair after another wet season.

These issues have indeed compounded now - pot holes in a few places and water eroding in several places. This is due to drainage that have filled up with silt over several years.

On a positive note, the tree planting volunteers are doing an amazing job, even though the councillors don’t understand, our local rail trail will be a great asset to the region in a few years.

Other regional councils have people coming to stay in their area because of their trails. For the TRC to block the tree planting along the back of the Tolga industrial estate is just showing their usual out of touch ways.

Tolga industrial estate has still got vacant blocks after more than 25 years, there’s plenty of room for light industry around Eclipse Drive and Fasiolo Circuit.

On top of that, the land around John Cole Toyota is also approved and ready to go. I reckon we should be right for at least another 25 years when it comes to industrial land.

The tree planting is an investment in the future and it doesn’t cost the council much, if anything.

A while ago it was announced that the council would spend $8 million on the old rail precinct in town, so surely we can afford to maintain the rail trail out of town, and let it become the asset it should be.

To the councillors who voted to stop the tree planting, have you even looked into what it would take to expand existing blocks in to this area , as the land doesn’t even belong to TRC?

Hoping for a greener TRC in the future.

Paul Nielsen ATHERTON

Hair rules supported

AS a parent of a student currently attending St Stephen’s Catholic College, I wanted to voice my support for Principal Vaughan in

light of the criticism levelled at him in last week’s piece “School cuts it fine with hair policy” published in The Express.

At a time when every day brings a new story of escalating youth waywardness and crime in regional centres, a principal taking a strong stance on discipline and promoting high standards in our young adults sounds good to me and its exactly what I would hope for from the school “I pay so much for (my) children to attend”.

By sending out the letter and calling the assembly, Principal Vaughan sent an unambiguous message to the student group and to the wider community that the school is serious about upholding its rules and standards, which to me is just good leadership.

I fail to comprehend why the move sparked “backlash from local business owners”. Surely the effected hairdressers can charge the same amount for a short back and sides as they would for endowing our young men with the proverbial dirty mudflap.

How about encouraging some resilience and respect for authority in our kids, rather than fostering a victim mentality and undermining those we charge with the already tough job of teaching them in our current school system.

I want to throw my full support behind Principal Vaughan and let him know that at least one parent appreciates his efforts.

Mingus Rose

Mowing done by volunteers

THE Express printed a letter to the editor by James Haile of Herberton on 07/02/2023. Fact Check – the council has not wasted money on mowing in Petford.

The mowing is done by two pensioners of Petford, Errol Rockwood and John McGrath using our own mowers, fuel, blades and belts, at no cost to council or ratepayers.

We also keep the railway siding and Telstra tower tidy – we do this for safety and pride in our little town.

Errol Rockwood and John McGrath PETFORD

Community deserves more

ON February 8, a special meeting was called by the TRC to vote on an already approved project to plant 1500 trees (at no cost to ratepayers) on the Rail Trail between Manthey and Beantree roads.

With a vote of 4 to 3 the project has been

disallowed. Four councillors recommended that part of his part of the section be considered for redevelopment and sale.

LETTERSto the edito r VOCAL LOCAL

Previously a sub-lease has allowed the Tolga Hotel to take a section of the Rail Trail to expand their carpark. Trees are essential for our environment.

How much more are we the public going to allow the reduction of land designated to the well-being of the community?

Thank you to councillors Hayden, Bilney and Marti for your support.

Denise Vrenegoor ATHERTON

Be heart aware

THIS February is REDFEB – heart awareness month. In addition to encouraging people to wear red and donate, Heart Research Australia is raising awareness about the underdiagnosis and undertreatment of women with heart disease.

Heart disease is not just a man’s disease. Globally, it is the number one killer of women, and we’ve found over recent years that women are doing worse after their heart attacks, they’re more likely to have another heart attack, and more likely to die or have heart failure than men within the five years following their heart attack.

Time is critical and a huge issue with women is the delay to treatment. Women go to hospital later after symptoms start, which reduces the window of opportunity for effective treatment and increases the risk of complications and damage to their heart.

Women also tend to develop symptoms of heart disease at a much later stage of the illness than men and their symptoms are often vaguer. Some feel extremely tired or short of breath. Other atypical symptoms include nausea and abdominal, neck, and shoulder pain.

It is important for women to know that early menopause, inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus, and complications during pregnancy - such as pre-eclampsia, hypertension, and gestational diabetes - are all important risk factors for women.

So, if you are a woman over 45* please have a heart health check with your GP and discuss your obstetric history with them if you have had children. This enables proactive prevention to be taken to reduce risk. (*Over 35 for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples). For more information or to donate, please visit www.heartresearch.com.au

Nicci Dent CEO, HEART RESEARCH AUSTRALIA

CLUB NEWS With Mareeba Lions

MAREEBA Lions resumed 2023 activities with a meeting at the Mareeba Leagues Club. The Christmas raffle has been run and won, and as usual all of the Christmas cakes and pudding sold out. A big thank you to all of the donors, and volunteers who make the raffle such a success.

Many children wrote to Santa and with the assistance of the Club received a personal letter back from Santa prior to Christmas. A wonderful memory.

The sausage sizzle in the Coles car park has been a great success with money raised often donated directly to local organisations. Recent recipients being; Mareeba Meals on Wheels $400.00; Animal Rescue Tablelands $300.00; Mareeba Animal Refuge $350.00; Mareeba Historical Society $350.00

As usual the Club will be holding the Family Fun Metrogaine on the 18th June which raises funds specifically for the Australian Lions Childhood Cancer Research Foundation. The Cairns to Karumba bike ride, Christmas in July and the Rodeo side show alley will all be events the Club will be involved in again in 2023.

The club is still interested in your old batteries. If you have any batteries whether for a car, truck, tractor or bike the club will collect

PHOTO OF THE WEEK

from you. We thank our partners FNQ Filters and Parts, and Outback Solar and Wind. Please call Lion Justice on 0484 647 333 to arrange pickup.

Don’t throw those beer cans and bottles in the bin, remember you can support your Mareeba Lions Club by taking your recyclable containers to Containers for Change 11 Bowers Street and quote Scheme ID C10128319. No need to package just take your recyclables out there and quote the ID number for Lions.

2022 saw the club send almost 1000 pair of used spectacles for recycling to people in disadvantaged circumstances. Your old specs can be dropped into the Mareeba Court House Although membership of Lions is by invitation you are invited to enquire about joining this great international humanitarian organisation. It is not hard to become a Lion.

Fellowship, Good times, meeting people, building lasting friendships, service to the community, learning new skills, Leadership and personal development - these are some of the reasons we are the Lions.

Lions meet in Mareeba at the Mareeba Leagues Club at 6.30 pm on the first and third Tuesday of the month. Check us out on Facebook or on the web at https://lionsclubs.org.au

By Donna Lauridsen

As far as I'm aware they only want it neat not messy and untidy! That's never been a problem for us so we support this. I've seen how kids play with their hair in class instead of listening to their teacher...boys flicking their fringe and girls trying to see through the messy hair, tying it up and then taking it down again over and over... So yes... If you don't like the rules, pick a different school! - Storm Blu Sure, but sending letters to hairdressers is just ridiculous, why should they be policing it for the schools, it's not their job to be asking which school each child goes to and only giving approved haircuts. -

Gioia Dalla Lana

As a person who received one of these letters under my shop front door, I can understand the concept and point. However, as a local salon business owner, I won’t refuse someone who is paying for a particular haircut/ style (in which I am more than happy to provide), based off what school they attend. That in itself is discriminatory. I want everyone who walks through the doors of my business to feel welcome and accepted! - Eva

Condullas

It crosses the line dictating to our local hairdressers how they can perform their core business. I am now grateful that my daughter was not offered a place in this school this year, despite her very high achievement academically. MSHS promotes inclusiveness and promotes everyone being treated equally, despite any physical differences. Wonder if the school understands it's statutory obligations under the Anti-Discrimination Act? - Amanda Torrisi There is policies and procedures in every workplace. And here people are saying they don’t agree with the schools’ policies. Like it’s already been said, if you don’t like the policies, choose a different school. As parents isn’t it our job to prepare our children for the future??? What is wrong with children learning to follow the policies and procedures at this time in their lives?? And we wonder why the crime is about??? Like the criminals have been taught to obey the law??? Wouldn’t be so bad if all the kids had policies in the schools to abide by. - Brenton and Miranda Richardson

They had a similar problem when dip dying hair ends was a thing. A lot of students left and came over to Atherton High. This is pretty controlling… On that note, St Stephen’s tried to make me write lines for stepping on the grass on orientation day. - Chantelle Hosking

It's called discipline. I went to a Catholic girls college. Hair had to be pinned back uniforms had to comply with standards. Had to wear hats and gloves outside of school. Gave you pride in yourself and your school. Should be more of it. - Maree Jane

If that's the case to send a letter to the hairdressers, the school can pay for all student’s hair-dos. - Joshua

Grogan

Welcome to 2023 - you can pick your gender but you can’t pick your hairstyle - Summer

Rae Evans

It's not the job of the hairdressers to enforce school rules. -

Diane Fenwick

While I understand the school trying to create a set standard, I don’t really see the point of sending a letter to salons as our job is to give the results that our paying clients are asking for. We would not say no to our clients requests because of a letter sent from their school. The issue should only be addresses through students and parents. - Hannah Stephens

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

A Mareeba school has received mixed reactions from the community after sending letters out to hairdressers telling them how students at their school are allowed have their hair cut and styled...

houses l land l units

Attention Business Owners

Prime commercial space for lease

WE are excited to offer an opportunity for a new or existing business to establish themselves at Amaroo Village with Suite 2/2-8 Karobean Drive now available for leasing. This tenancy is ideally suited to allied health services, barbers, hairdressing, beauty shops, professional offices and more. On offer is:

• A new modern and sophisticated premises

• Full fitted out and ready to go

• Adjacent to Amaroo Pharmacy and Amaroo Medical

• Tenants covered parking area

• PWD Facilities and car parks

22 Main Street, Atherton

Phone: 4091 7111

• Wheelchair accessible

• 55 SQM with the ability to increase lettable floor area

• Ideally suited to allied health services, barbers, hairdressing, beauty shops, professional offices and more.

Pop into the Amaroo Land Centre to enquire today or call Ryley on 0409 321 000 if you would like to arrange an inspection, at a time that best suits you. Follow us on our socials or check out our website www. amarooestate.com.au for all updates regarding our upcoming stages and leasing opportunities.

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Margaret Black: Principal

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• 3 creeks + 3 dams

• Large 3 bedroom Queenslander

$ P.O.A. L11706832 Morgan Brennan 0407 730 450

PEACEFUL PEERAMON

Peeramon

• Solid 3 bedroom home

• 4th bedroom or 2nd living area

• Large entertainment patio

• Beautiful rural views

• 2 bay garage + bore

• Variety of fruit trees and gardens

Offer Over $450,000 L21904268

Suzey Whitby 0438 090 306

WHAT MORE COULD YOU ASK FOR Upper Barron

• Set on 4.25 hectares

• 4 bedroom, 2 bath modern home

• Large living and dining

• Entertainment patio - views

• Inground pool

• 3 paddocks + 2 large sheds

Offers Invited L18447858

Morgan Brennan 0407 730 450

www.raywhiteruralatherton.com.au

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

Malanda lifestyle retreat

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

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

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

The property includes a steel construction shed which includes a self-contained unit currently housing a tenant or there is also the possibility of providing bnb accommodation.

The house is connected to town water and a septic wastewater system is installed with the option to

connect to town sewerage if desired.

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

Features include:

• 4 bedrooms

• 2 separate living areas

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

• Modern kitchen with large pantry, dishwasher, rangehood

• 2 separate bathrooms in house + 1 in shed

• Internal laundry

• Office/gym room

• Mud room

Contact Exclusive Marketing Agent Collette Rowston at Raine & Horne Atherton on 0419 733 712 to organise your private inspection.

Address: 49 Hillcrest Road, MALANDA

Price: $698,000

Agent: EXCLUSIVE to Collette Rowston Raine & Horne Atherton

Contact: 0419 733 712

The only limit is your imagination

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

This impressively spacious home site of 860m², presents you with an opportunity to create something special without the obstacle of a pre-existing house.

The land comes ready to be connected to services such as town water, underground electricity and sewerage.

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

the Sunset Ridge estate is a 3 acre open space park reserve with access to the tree lined Mazlin Creek. A children’s playground is located in the nearby Collins Park. Property covenants apply to protect the value of your home.

For more information, call Trisha Jackson at Professionals Atherton. Phone 4091 3955 or 0419 1833 145 anytime. To view more photos, visit athertonrealestate.com.au

Address: ATHERTON

Price: $155,000

Agent: Trisha Jackson

Professionals Atherton

Contact: 0419 183 145

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

Morecambe Station

LOCATED 20kms south of Mount Garnet, Morecambe Station is set on approx. 20,112ha* (49,698 acre*) of leasehold land.

The property is estimated to run up to 1800 breeders and is predominantly set on gently undulating, open savannah forest country, with a heavy coverage of seca stylo.

Well-watered by a poly pipe system, which includes 23 tanks and troughs. A bore and tank are also located on the property.

Morecambe runs from alluvial soils along the Herbert River frontage & strips of red, loamy and sandy soils on the balance of the lighter forest

country.

The property is divided into 4 paddocks between the river and main road with another 4 usable paddocks on the western side of the main road. Additional smaller, holding paddocks close to the yards and house are also a bonus.

The cattle yards are equipped with a five way draft, a double deck loading ramp, crush, calf branding fa-

cilities and two large coolers. Structural Improvements include a two storey, 3 bedroom homestead, 8 room quarters, steel machinery shed, a steel storage shed and a workshop.

Call Exclusive agent, Morgan Brennan, at Ray White Atherton on 0407 730 450 or 4091 7111. Visit www. raywhiteruralatherton. com.au/

Address: Morecambe Station, GUNNAWARRA

Price: $8,500,000

Agent: EXCLUSIVE to Morgan Brennan Ray White Atherton

Contact: 0407 730 450 or 4091 7111

I O N

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

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

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

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

PROPERTY

Brand new home in a prestige estate

WANT a new home but don’t want to wait? then this home is perfect for you! Secure a brand new 3 bedroom quality built home, built by a renowned local builder without the wait.

This beautiful home is the best option for those that simply will not compromise on style, low maintenance living and a superb location. With a long list of features, you will come to love every-

thing that this home has to offer. Features Include:

• Brand new rendered block home

• Air-conditioned open plan living

• Modern kitchen with electric appliances, pantry, and a breakfast bar

• Master bedroom features a generous ensuite, walk-in robe & air-conditioning

• Bedrooms (2) & (3) with

built-in robes

• Tiled main bathroom with a walk-in shower & vanity. Separate toilet

• Ceiling fans, quality fixtures & fittings and vinyl plank flooring throughout home

• Aluminium screens to all windows & sliding glass door

• Large entertainment patio overlooking the green junior rugby field

• 2 bay remote control ga-

For Sale

rage

• Low maintenance 613m2 fully turfed allotment

• Fenced on 2 sides of home

• Coloured concrete footpaths & drive-way

• Walking distance to the Atherton Golf Course

Whether you are looking to downsize, looking for a low maintenance investment, looking for your first home or for a new home and don’t

want to wait for the build process, place this property on your inspection list- you will not be disappointed!

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

Address: 12 Driver Close, ATHERTON

Price: $525,000

Agent: EXCLUSIVE to Raquel Cunzolo Sommerset Realty

Contact: 0408 983 879

www.4880.com.au

Queenslander Living

WHAT IS YOUR PROPERTY WORTH? Call Raquel today to find out!*

*Free No Obligation Appraisal

84 Main Street, Atherton QLD. 4883 Phone: 0408 983 879

www.sommersetrealty.com.au

Polished timber floors

Shed 12 4 x 4 8 meters

No rear neighbours

Fully Air conditioned Solar Panels

Rear access

Fully fenced block 1371 m2

100 Mason Street Mid $400,000's

Aurelia 0418 183 555

Quality build in a great location

THIS modern quality built home was built in 2015 by award wining builder Jason Gray, with quality fixtures and fittings throughout and sitting on a generous 800 sqm block, within walking distance to The Village, Yungaburra.

Having established gardens for street appeal and privacy, the property is fully fenced from the sides to the rear with garden shed, fruit trees, raised vegetable gardens & the convenience of a small rainwater tank for watering without racking up your water on your rates, currently just over $1800 half yearly.

The home is fully air-conditioned through out and features the following:

• Open plan kitchen, dining and lounge room with a flow on effect from the living and dining rooms through the glass sliding doors to the large patio area which is fitted with remote control blinds and is a very usable area for entertaining

• Designer modern kitchen with integrated dishwasher, gas cooktop, electric oven, rangehood, large breakfast bar and pantry

• Master bedroom with walk in wardrobe and spacious ensuite with sliding glass door to access the large patio

• Bedrooms 2 & 3 have built in wardrobes

• Office at the entrance is

convenient for the work from home owner or fourth bedroom for the family with built in cupboard

• Sizeable media room with recessed wall for the entertainment unit

• Main bathroom with shower, bathtub, vanity & separate toilet

• Spacious laundry with overheads and storage cupboards with access to the outdoor clothesline; solar hot

water

• Quality porcelain tiles, fans, security screens and blinds throughout

• Double garage with remote controlled access with exposed aggregate driveway

For further information or an inspection on this quality family home give Elders Exclusively Marketing Agent Shellie Nightingale a call on 0429 966 038.

Address: 27 Wensley Avenue, YUNGABURRA

Price: $675,000

Agent: EXCLUSIVE to Shellie Nightingale Elders Real Estate Malanda

Contact: 0429 966 038

The doors are open – so many

THE unique zoning of this solid masonry block home set on a spacious 1,012m2 allotment is what sets this property apart from the rest. Reap the rewards, run an at home business, buy for investment or as a first home. Location is ideal, close proximity to amenities including Harvey Norman, and the local brewery.

• 1012sqm Allotment –

Zoned Light Industry – Main Road Frontage

• Solid Masonry Block

Construction Throughout –

Repainted

• 3 Good Sized Bedrooms

Complete With Carpets, Built-Ins & Ceiling Fans

• Modern Kitchen Complete With Electric Appliances, Breakfast Bench & Pantry

• Spacious Open Plan Living/Dining Area – Modern Vinyl (Timber Look) Flooring - Fireplace

• Bathroom Features New Vanity & Linen Cupboard

• Large Enclosed Entertaining Area At The Rear Of The Home

• Solid Masonry Block Shed/Garage & Lockable Garden Shed

For more information or a private inspection, please contact Exclusive Marketing Agents Kaydee Chatfield or Daimin Kochi at Main St Real Estate Atherton. Phone Daimin on 0448 916 246 or Kaydee on 0417 468 941.

Address: 44 Tolga Road, ATHERTON

Price: Offers Over $380,000 Agent: EXCLUSIVE to Main Street Real Estate

Kochi & Kaydee Chatfield

0448 916 246 or 0417 468 941

THIS stylish 4 bedroom plus study family home is very well presented and positioned on 1,107m2 in Sunbird Park Estate, only 5 minutes from Mareeba town centre.

The generous, functional floor plan offers adaptable living and exceptional entertaining options. Incorporating 4 bedrooms, a study, 2 bathrooms, a sizeable central kitchen, living area and a media room there's something to accommodate every member of the family.

Quality features including:

• Tiled throughout with new carpet in the media room

• 4 bedrooms with built-in robes, master bedroom with ensuite & substantial WIR

• Split system air-conditioning throughout

• Separate closable media room/lounge

• Study

• Superb modern kitchen with substantial bench space & stainless steel appliances including a dishwasher

• Generous tiled patio off the living area

• Laundry with built-in storage cupboards + hallway storage cupboards

• Security screens, tinted windows & blinds throughout

• Exposed aggregate driveway & pathways around

• Fully fenced & landscaped 1,107m2 allotment with pop up irrigation, side access & no immediate rear neighbours

Why build when you can move right in, with everything you want and so much more.

It’s a must to inspect – open for inspection this Saturday from 10.00am to 11.00am.

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

Address: 30 Jacana Close, MAREEBA

Price: Offers Over $560,000

Agent: EXCLUSIVE to Joe Torrisi Joe Torrisi Real Estate Contact: 0417 700 468

MAREEBA

EXPRESS

TAKE A BREAK

BIG WORD SEARCH CROSSWORD

20. a chair with legs connected to two curved pieces of wood to enable a rocking motion (7,5)

23. a herb of the crucifer family grown for it’s green edible roots, eaten grated in Japanese dishes

24. not fit for eating

25. to spend time aimlessly; idle not to be confused with the word that means “to fool around”

26. a worthless or contemptible person (2,4)

Down

2. cause something to rest against

3. of or concerned with the actual doing or use of something rather than the theory

4. relating to or in the form of a plane

5. prevalent and still very active (5,3,7)

Across

1. a meal that is especially large and good 5. military weapons and equipment

9. a maharaja’s wife

10. cover or sprinkle with drops of water or other liquid

11. a chemical element only present in minute amounts in a particular sample (5,7)

13. a silvery-white metal that is a constituent of brass and is used for coating steel and iron to prevent corrosion

14. two external openings of the nasal cavity in vertebrates

17. a long queue of stationary or slow moving traffic extending back from a busy junction or obstruction on the road

18. archaic for rabbit or fur made from rabbit skin (American English)

Mar 21 - Apr 19

6. prepare and organise troops for active service

7. used to address or refer to a woman in a polite or respectful manner

8. North-eastern region of USA comprising of the states of Maine, Vermont, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Connecticut and Rhode Island (3,7)

12. a cocktail made with rum, coconut cream and pineapple juice (4,6)

15. the electrical, mechanical, or digital inscription and recreation of soundwaves

16. beautiful in a sad way that is not easily forgotten

19. whalebone

21. a traditional African village of huts, typically enclosed by a fence

apr 20 - may 20

O aluminium antimony argon arsenic barium berkelium bismuth bohrium boron bromine cadmium carbon cerium cesium chlorine chromium cobalt copper curium darmstadtium dubnium einsteinium erbium europium fermium fluorine fold helium holmium hydrogen indium iodine iridium iron krypton lead mercury molybdenum neon nickel niobium nitrogen osmium oxyen palladium plutonium radium radon rhenium rubidium rutherfordium silicon silver sodium sulfur thorium thulium tin tungsten uranium xenon yttrium zinc Time m 0452 0.78 1118 2.94 1731 1.06 2339 2.42 Time m 0536 1.20 1154 2.56 1817 1.24 Time m 0044 2.21 0629 1.63 1230 2.18 1920 1.41 Time m 0426 2.16 1225 1.84 1446 1.86 2206 1.42 Time m 0542 2.43 1318 1.59 1725 1.89 2315 1.28 Time m 0626 2.64 1335 1.43 1815 1.98 0328 0.22

May 21 - Jun 20

Enter

digits from 1 to 9 into the blank spaces. Every row must contain one of each digit. So must every column,

This week, you’re knocking of the right doors. Your intuition and career are highlighted this week. You could have a good feeling about what will happen in your workplace. This enables you to plan accordingly. Pause and let the ideas sink in.

JUN 21 - JUL 22

This week, you are co-creating with the universe. Your education and relationships are highlighted. Someone from your past, perhaps from school could reach out to you. Over the next four weeks travel plans will come together. Get serious about that trip

sep 23 - oct 22

This week, you’re getting on the right track. Your daily routines and dwellings are highlighted. You might be doing a spring clean or moving things around for visitors. Over the next four weeks it’s good to examine your routines & refine what is working and what isn’t

Dec 22 - Jan 19

This week, you’re disolving boundaries. Your communication is highlighted. Whatever you put your words to will reach exactly the right ears. Over the next four weeks you’ll want to expand your horizons. Step outside your regular spots, you’ll find inspiration.

This week, your popularity soars. Your friendships and education are highlighted this week. You might be in touch with some old friends or asked to help with a school reunion. Over the next four weeks your focus could shift to community. How are you contributing?

JUL 23 - AUG 22

This week, you could receive dividends from many quarters. You investments and routines are highlighted this week. Any time spent automating your finances will pay off. Over the next four weeks a relationship could blossom. Connection, play & spending time.

oct 23 - nov 21

This week, there could be passion. Your pleasure, romance and communication are highlighted. Desires could be revealed. Over the next four weeks explore what you enjoy in life. Maybe your tastes have changed. You’ve grown a lot over the past two years.

Jan 20 - Feb 18

This week, things are looking up. Your money and intuition are highlighted. Take a pause and understand from within, then take action. Over the next four weeks examine your self worth. What messages have you embraced that you should drop like it’s hot?

This week, you could be devinely inspired. Your career and resources are highlighted this week. Read the fine print, you could find some benefits you haven’t accessed yet. Over the next four weeks you’ll be more visible, make the most of it.

Aug 23 -Sep 22

This week, something wonderful could develop. Your relationships, pleasure & risk taking is highlighted. It starts with you initiating. Over the next four weeks you could become a social butterfly. You’ll get to meet people that have heard wonderful things

nov 22 - dec 21

This week, your home is coming together. Your relatives and money are highlighted. There might be opportunity to discuss money with your kids or housemate. Over the next four weeks there’s a lof of energy around family and ancestral inheritance.

Feb 19 - Mar 20

This week, action brings results. Your friendships are highlighted. Someone you know could give you a wonderful idea. There’s no reason to wait on the sidelines. Over the next four weeks plant the seeds for the marvelous harvest coming over the next 12 months

FUNERAL NOTICE

Neville Richard Moller

Formerly of Nev’s Mower Repairs, 78 Weaver Street, Atherton. Late of Charters Towers.

Neville passed away peacefully on 7th February, 2023 surrounded by his family. Aged 87 years.

Beloved Husband of Cecilia. Father to Delma, Barbara, Denise, Cindy and Graham.

A Funeral Service was held for Neville on Thursday 16th February, 2023. A private cremation followed the service.

In the care of Charters Towers Funerals

36 Hodgkinson St, Charters Towers Q.4820 Phone: 4787 7530

SNELLING, Jeffrey Charles

Late of East Barron.

Tragically taken February 12, 2023.

Dearly beloved Husband of Helen. Devoted Father of Henry and Benjamin. Cherished Son of Chris and Judy. Adored Brother and Uncle of Glenn, Hitomi, Ken and Caroline. Loved Son-in Law, Brother-in-Law and Uncle to Ken and Dawn Schaffer, Rebecca, Lauren and Flynn.

Relatives and friends of Jeffrey are respectively invited to attend his funeral service at Guilfoyles Chapel, Nasser Road, Atherton on Friday February 24th at 11am. Donations to Missy’s Donors in lieu of flowers please. The service will be available to view through the following link: https:// livestream.com/rapidspin/jeffreysnelling.

Guilfoyle Funeral Services

Chapels, Crematorium & Memorial Gardens

Atherton: 4091 2147 Mareeba: 4092 1013 Local Family Owned & “Entrusted for over 70 years” www.guilfoylefunerals.com.au

DEATH NOTICE

COOK, Mavis Amelia

Late of Tolga. Passed away on the 4th of February, 2023. Aged 88 years. In keeping with Mavis’ wishes, a private funeral has taken place.

Guilfoyle Funeral Services

Chapels, Crematorium & Memorial Gardens

Atherton: 4091 2147 Mareeba: 4092 1013

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

KING, Laurie

Late of Kairi. Passed away on the 11th of February, 2023. Aged 93 years.

Beloved Husband of June (Dec.). Loved Father and Father-in-Law of Suzanne & Doug, Kaylene, Peter & Leeanne and Gary & Lyn. Cherished Pop of all his grandchildren and great grandchildren. A service for Laurie has been held.

Guilfoyle Funeral Services

Chapels, Crematorium & Memorial Gardens

Atherton: 4091 2147 Mareeba: 4092 1013

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

IN LOVING MEMORY OF William Skinner

03/02/1953 ~ 27/02/2022

We think about you always, we talk about you still. You have never been forgotten, and you never will. We hold you close within our hearts, And there you will remain.

To walk and guide us through our lives, Until we meet again.

Love from Lyndel, Samantha and their families.

GARAGE SALE

CLEARING OUT @ Eli Close, Mareeba

(follow the signs)

Sat 25 & Sun 26

Feb 6am - 6pm

Furniture, household items, new/preloved clothing, bric-a-brac, plants, horse gear.

EMPLOYMENT WANTED

MATURE MULTI TASKER SEEKS NEW

CHALLENGE

Very experienced in sales, hospitality, small business, retail, staff management and training. Competent homemaker with design flair and basic floristry, old fashioned values, punctual and reliable. Write Boxholder: PO Box 750, Tolga Q.4882 or Phone 4095 2470 between 7pm to 8pm.

TATU 28 Plate, Offset Plough

Garage Sale Saturday 25th Feb Sunday 26th Feb 7.00am - 2.00pm 99 Constance Street Moving international all must go!

$16,500

PHONE: 0438 981 167

IRTEM 4 Row Precision Planter

Double disc, fertiliser boxes, brand new.

$25,000

PHONE: 0438 981 167

QCWA AERIAL OUTPOST

GROUP CRAFT MORNINGS

Where: Jackaroo Motel Conference Room

When: Monday 6th March, Monday 20th

March, Monday 3rd April, Monday 17th April

Time: 9am - 12 noon

Admission: $5.00 (including morning tea)

Bring along your favourite project OR Learn something NEW... everyone welcome!

Contact: Yvonne Dighton 0400 848 435 Bev Haines 0411 610 872

St Georges’ Anglican Church

49-51 Constance Street, Mareeba

World Day Of Prayer

Friday 3rd March, 2023 at 10am

All churches are welcome!

Davies Creek Rural Fire Brigade

AGM

To be held on Sunday 26th February at 10am at the Fire Shed, 141 Kay Road.

Contact Duncan Cunningham 0439 746 096

FOR SALE!

COX Rejuvenated Ride On Mowers FROM $1000 WANTED TO BUY COX Ride On Mowers Needing Repairs 7 - 7 CASH!

CALL AL 0428 194 505

LIKE US TODAY AND JOIN THE EXPRESS FACEBOOK FAMILY!

Well Women’s Clinics

(These clinics are available to Medicare eligible clients) Service includes Cervical Screening Tests (Pap Smears), Sexual Health Screening, Breast Awareness, also info on Contraception, Continence, Menopause, Lifestyle Issues, Bowel Health, Domestic Violence, etc.

All services are provided by a specially trained Qld Health Women’s Health Nurse.

Ravenshoe Community Health Centre: Wednesday 1st February, 2023

Phone 4097 6223 to make an appointment

Mareeba Hospital: Thursday 2nd February, 2023

Phone 4092 9311 to make an appointment

Atherton Community Health: Tuesday 28th February, 2023

Phone 4091 0263 to make an appointment

A.G.M. Tableland Country Music Club

10.30am @ Mareeba Leagues Club, Sunday 26th February

IS your Club holding an AGM? Email your text to admin@ theexpressnewspaper. com.au

ATHERTON BRANCH AGM

Followed by General Meeting

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

Please email: atherton@cherishlife.org.au

For more information

IRVINEBANK SCHOOL OF ARTS AND PROGRESS ASSOCIATION INC.

Notice of Annual General Meeting School of Arts Hall, Jessie Street, Irvinebank 11.00am, 5th March, 2023

Following a General Meeting at 10.00am ALL WELCOME!

POSITION VACANT

PCYC Mareeba is currently seeking a passionate Support Worker Community Foundation Skills (Fixed Term, Part time, 15 hours per week, Until December 2023)

To apply go to: pcyc.bigredsky.com

Note: Blue Card ‘No Card, No Start’ Laws Apply. Must be fully vaccinated against Covid-19.

Tableland Mill

position located at our Tableland Mill.

POSITION VACANT

APPRENTICE - DIESEL FITTER (3RD OR 4TH YEAR)

Etheridge Shire Council is seeking applications from highly motivated, enthusiastic and team orientated persons to assist and support the Councils Workshop Staff, in the fabrication, repair and maintenance of Council’s plant and equipment whilst obtaining a Certificate III (Engineering Mechanical Trade).

Applications are to include a covering letter, resume and at least 2 references.

Applications can be posted, delivered to the Administration Office, faxed or emailed to:

Position Vacant – Apprentice – Diesel Fitter

The Chief Executive Officer

Etheridge Shire Council PO Box 12 GEORGETOWN QLD 4871

Fax: 07 4062 1285

Email: info@etheridge.qld.gov.au

Further information can be obtained by contacting the Workshop Supervisor Lachlan Bester on Ph: 07 40799090 or Councils website www.etheridge.qld.gov.au

Applications close at 4 pm 24th February 2023

Ken Timms CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

POSITION VACANT WORKS SUPERVISOR

A vacancy exists with Etheridge Shire Council for a Works Supervisor.

The Works Supervisor will provide leadership and deliver functions that contribute to the efficiency and effectiveness of Council’s Works Department.

The Works Supervisor’s role is to coordinate Council’s construction and maintenance projects and supervise all functions involved, ensuring that all projects are planned, resourced and delivered effectively and within designated timeframes. Reporting to the Infrastructure Services Operations Manager, the successful applicant will work autonomously to ensure an effective, smooth running service is provided.

As a supervisor, you will provide effective leadership to crews within the Works Department and also play a vital role in the strategic direction relating to operations of the Works Department.

The successful application will be required to camp in a Council owned caravan in various locations within the shire during the 9 day shift.

Applications to include:

- Cover Letter

- Updated Resume

- Supporting Evidence of Qualifications

- Minimum of 2 referees

Applications can be posted, delivered to the Administration Office, faxed or emailed to:

Positions Vacant – Works Supervisor

The Chief Executive Officer Etheridge Shire Council

PO Box 12

GEORGETOWN QLD 4871

Fax: 07 4062 1285

Email: info@etheridge.qld.gov.au

Further information can be obtained by contacting Council’s Infrastructure Services Operations Manager on (07) 4079 9029 or email info@etheridge.qld.gov.au or Councils website www.etheridge.qld.gov.au

Tablelands Career Forum

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

All welcome — there is something for everyone!

Employment opportunities and job placements

Traineeships, apprenticeships and work experience

In-demand skills in our region

Access to university, training, industry and community programs

10.00am–1.30pm Wednesday 1 March

Coordination Centre, 15 Vernon Street, Atherton

Applications close 4pm 1 March 2023

Ken Timms CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER LG000642

Mareeba run riot over premiership hopefuls

MAREEBA’S second grade travelled down the range to take on second-placed Barron at Trinity Beach and dealt the home sides’ hopes of a minor premiership a blow after a determined effort from the Bandits.

Rain again threatened to put a dampener on another post-Christmas game however through the efforts of Barron a full game of cricket was played.

Barron won the toss and elected to bat first and under the gloomy skies of the northern beaches, Mareeba’s opening bowlers Brendan Payne (2/17) and Jayden Kruss (3/6) decimated Barron’s top order after 12 overs Baron were struggling at 6 for 25.

Mareeba’s dominance continued after drinks with Brett Stallan taking 2 wickets and spinners Brandon Green, Rowan Foxwell and Ben Jones all taking a wicket each.

The Barons innings ended with a whimper after being bowled out for 89.

The Mareeba innings got off to shaky start after losing a wicket in the second over however the leadership team of the Brendan Payne and Brendan Falvo steadied the ship and combined for a solid partnership of 49.

Payne showed his power by dispatching a Baron spinner into a nearby backyard while Falvo tickled the ball into the gaps.

It wouldn’t be a game of cricket for Mareeba without a little middle order stumble and with Barron fighting back, four quick wickets fell to have Mareeba 5 for 63.

With a minor premiership in sight for Baron they upped the pressure on the Mareeba middle order batters.

With 27 runs to get and the rain starting to fall, Mareeba young gun Tristan Lopez and old hand Grant Hanlon went for the jugular.

The pair looked to avoid a repeat of the heart breaking round six game between these teams where Barron stole victory in the final over of the game.

The pair flipped the pressure and took on the Baron bowlers and their run a ball partnership was enough to steer the team victory and move the Mareeba into seventh place on the ladder.

Mareeba will play at home next weekend with all three senior teams, locals are urged to come down and cheer on the Bandits.

Fighters ready to battle the best of the best

FIGHTERS from the newly established Spirit Muay Thai (SMT) Gym in Mareeba will test their mettle against formidable opponents as they head out of state for the 1774 Muay Thai Series in Sydney this weekend.

Salvatore Signarino, Lachlan McWaters and Chris Obidon will all be traveling down to Sydney to fight professional bouts under SMT Gym’s banner.

Run by brothers Salvatore and Rosario (Ross) Signarino, SMT Gym is one of the newest gyms on the block and operates out of the Mareeba International Club where they host both kids and adults classes with the former proving to be ever-increasingly popular with families.

Muay Thai runs in the blood of the Signario brothers as they initially learnt the combat sport from their father.

While Salvatore still fights, Ross has taken on more of a training and coaching role however they both use their decades of knowledge and experience to teach any and all who would like to try their hand at the sport.

Ross was overwhelmed with the amount of community support the gym has gotten since they opened July last year and the number of people coming to classes is only growing.

“The community has been amazing, we did not expect all of this and grow to what we are now,” he said.

“In Far North Queensland Muay Thai is still a little bit behind so we are just trying to involve as many people in the sport as we can.

“The guys have been training really hard for their fights and I think they really deserve some recognition.”

For this Saturday’s fights, McWaters will be facing off against Jackson Walker in a professional undercard bout, Obidon will be fighting Cody Jameson and Signarino will fight James Cabra.

The next major fight for SMT gym will be in Cairns where Obidon will be aiming for the Elite Fight Series pro title and McWaters will also be fighting.

Young soccer talent scoring big goals

BY ELLIE FINK

TWO local football champions will be taking the next steps in becoming professional players like their idols Lionel Messi and Kevin De Bruyne after being awarded a John Moriarty Football scholarship in Sydney.

John Moriarty Football is a group that reaches 2,000 indigenous students every week and helps promote positive changes in the classroom and on the field.

Robert Hostalek, aged 12, and Collin Walsh, aged 13, fell in love with the sport whilst at Mareeba State School and will be taking their talents to the big smokes of Westfield Sports School, Sydney – the most prestigious sporting school in the country.

When learning they were chosen for the scholarship, both boys were thrilled and have spent several weeks in the lead up visiting Sydney and Westfield to get to know their new home for the school year.

Hostalek has been playing football for the past two years in Mareeba and cannot wait to play and train some of the best soccer players in his age group down south.

“I started playing because it was fun and I kind of stuck with it and now they have given me a scholarship because I am good,” he said.

“At first, I didn’t even know what a

scholarship was, but I am excited now I know.

“I am both excited and nervous.”

Whilst visiting the school earlier in the year, Hostalek was in awe of the level of players in his grade at school and has immediately fallen in love with it, and the food.

Walsh started playing with John Moriarty Football at the same time as his team mate and has spent hours to on the field training to be the best he can be.

Being able to train with a higher calibre of players is something he is looking forward to the most as he hopes to train until he becomes the best he can be.

“It felt good (to get the scholarship) and I am looking forward to getting better at footwork,” he said.

“There are better players down there too.”

Head coach for the John Moriarty Football (Kuranda) Bruno Silva has watched the boys grow and expand on their skill in soccer and is beyond proud to watch them take on the players in Sydney.

From watching them play on the school oval to enrolling them with the Mareeba Bulls, Mr Silva believes they have what it takes to become professional footballers.

“This is the next big step for them because you get to a point in Far North Queensland where they are not being challenged enough because the level

isn’t high enough to keep them progressing,” he said.

“In Sydney they are playing with boys of a higher level and that will keep them on their toes and make them work hard to achieve their dreams.

“It’s bittersweet because obviously

Hostalek and Collin Walsh will be taking their love for soccer to the next level after they received scholarships through the John Moriarty Football program.

you want to hold on to those kids because they have something special but it would be selfish.”

Walsh and Hostalek will be completing their high school studies in Sydney whilst also focusing on their soccer careers as of 27 February.

Robert

Chris Obidon, Salvatore Signarino and Lachlan McWaters will be fighting for the top spot at the 1774 Muay Thai Series in Sydney this weekend.

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Atherton grand final ready

JUST a few short years after their last grand final appearance, Atherton has made it through the Cricket Far North first grade gauntlet and will face off against first placed Norths this weekend in this year’s grand final showdown.

Norths has remained at the top of the ladder for most of the season and proved themselves to be the undisputable team to beat this season.

Jersey auction sets new record

A CLUB record of $37,700 was raised at the annual Gladiators jersey auction night held at the Mareeba Leagues club on Saturday.

The large crowd of supporters and players packed the leagues club while local business owners showed their support with their credit cards to surpass last years record by more than five thousand dollars.

Patrons also had a sneak peak of the special throw-back jerseys the A-grade side will take to the field with, this coming season.

Greg and Sandra Flegler from CTR Bananas were the highest jersey bidders ($5,100) for the number 9 jersey, proudly worn by their son Ryan. The funds raised on the night will be well spent, as they expect to make an impression on this years CDRL competition.

“It’s great to see the support from local businesses and the support from the public,” A-grade Coach Chris Sheppard said.

“We have built this team primarily on local boys who have previously played for the club and we do have some others arriving before the start of

the season who in my opinion will have the club reach their potential this year. Injuries were a major problem for us last year.”

New club president Darren Hastie was left speechless by the community support he witnessed, singling out his new look committee who are doing extraordinary things behind the scenes.

“The players have really embraced what Chris is trying to do with the club, It’s a fairly young squad,” he said.

“Chris is a pro, the players respect him, we are still in the building stages, but we are quietly confident that we will see something special this year.

“Personally I have a great committee which is much bigger than past years which we are pleased about and everyone is here for the game.

“We all love rugby league and we want the Gladiators to be a team that the entire community can be proud of.”

The Gladiators first trial match will be a local derby at home on March 18 against the Atherton Roosters.

The last time Atherton made a finals appearance was in 2020 and now they will face off against Norths this Saturday at Griffiths Park from 10am.

Atherton has only won one of the three games played against Norths throughout the season however coach Shane Legge said it is anyone’s game in the finals.

“At the start of the season I believed making the semifinals was a best-case scenario but we ended up getting into second,” he said.

“We have lost two out of the three games we have played against Norths which we could have won and in the finals, it is anyone’s game.

“The team has exceeded my expectations by a long way and having a few key young players in the team is really ex-

citing as they are part of making history, it’s not very often a team makes it into the grand final.

“They are making memories they will be talking about for years to come.”

Atherton Captain Tom Boorman is a veteran of the first grade competition and felt this year he truly stepped up and filled the shoes left by previous members of the club.

“This year I felt a bit more responsibility than I have in previous years, without the likes of Paul Nasser and Pete Sceresini, those senior players, I felt I needed to step up a bit more” he said.

“I think we are prepared for Norths this weekend, we played against them two weeks ago and bowled them out for not a huge score which we were really happy with.”

Boorman has remained a dominant force throughout this season both with the bat and the ball as he leads the table as first grades’ best batsman. He believes in order to get ahead in the game, Atherton will need to strike early and get both of Norths’ premier batsman out.

Boorman is hopeful there will be a large Atherton supporter crowd at Saturday's game.

Greg and Sandra Flegler from CTR Bananas bid a massive $5,100 for the number 9 jersey worn by their son Ryan (centre).

Atherton first grade coach Shane Legge and captain Tom Boorman are both looking forward to this weekend’s Cricket Far North first grade grand final game against Norths.