The Express Newspaper 30th November 2022

OVER 120 motorcycles and classic travelled around the Tablelands on Saturday, as hundreds of people turned out to support the 26th annual Tablelands Toy Run.

Getting into the Christmas spirit of giving, locals raised over $2,000 in cash while a mini van was filled to the brim with Christmas gifts and food, all being donated to the local Salvation Army’s Christmas appeal.

The collection was greatly assisted by students from Yungaburra and Malanda Primary Schools, while Tolga Salvation Army volunteers put on a BBQ lunch for all and assisted on the day.

Event co-ordinator Don Sheppard said it was another great year for the toy run.

“It was another great day with the desired result of assisting those less fortunate in the community, especially over Christmas,” he said.

“All our event partners and participants deserve a big thank you.” PHOTOS P18

Beau Sheppard and Santa (Steve Graham)

successful Tablelands Toy Run.

Win as sweet as pie

BY ELLIE FINK

LOCAL baker Hector Escriva loves every thing about breads and cakes and his passion for the craft was recently recognised at the 2022 Baking Industry Training Australia Apprentice Awards.

The Curcio’s Bakery apprentice took home second place in the Certificate III in Baking Second Year Apprentice of the Year.

He was nominated for the award by his teacher and was shocked to hear that he had placed as a finalist.

“My teacher came and told me I was a finalist, and he came and watched me make the breads and cakes (and sent them to the judges),” he said.

“It was really good to get the award be cause I went up there like ‘yeah, I am one of the finalists’, but I didn’t think they would call my name but when they called my name I was like ‘what!’

“I was so happy in that moment.”

Hector has been working at Curcio’s Bakery in Mareeba since the beginning of his apprenticeship, and is passionate about baking, especially cakes.

He never thought he would find himself

in the industry, originally travelling to Aus tralia from Spain to work on the farms.

After a while, he realised farm work was not his cup of tea and decided to take a leap of faith and take up an apprenticeship with Curcio’s Bakery.

Since starting in the job, he has found his favourite part is the ability to try new things and get creative to make the perfect sweet treats for the community to enjoy.

“Decorating the cakes is the best bit be cause you can create whatever you want on the cakes,” he said.

“I try and decorate all the cakes to make them look good.”

Manager and owner of Curcio’s Bakery,

He

“He has done very well with everything, from pastries to cakes and bread and he is a very quick and good learner,” he said.

“It wasn’t a surprise (he won an award) because I knew he would do well, and it was a big bonus for him getting this one.

“He has always been very motivated and is always keen to learn new stuff and I can see him becoming a manager or supervisor and doing really well – I would say he is my favourite apprentice.”

Locals invited to see rail trail greenery

Robyn Holmes

Quinto Curcio, couldn’t be prouder of Hec tor and his award and says he expects he will go a long way in the industry.

was a deserving recipient of the award and congratulated him on his efforts.

Curcio’s Bakery apprentice Hector Escriva alongside bakery owner Quinto Curcio after coming second in the Certificate III in Baking Second Year Apprentice of the Year.

A SPECIAL commemorative event is be ing held in Atherton on 2 December with the Tablelands Outdoor Rec Association inviting locals along to walk the rail trail and see the trees that were recently plant ed.

For the past four years local volunteers have been planting trees along the Ather ton rail trail and have planted roughly 2,500 to date, with 2000 more trees due thanks to a Federal Government grant. A large group of volunteers have been

from the local Sixty and Over (SAO) cy cling group.

It will begin at 4pm at Grove Street, Atherton, adjacent to the BMX Park, and run for an hour with light refreshments available.

Crime fear shocks council

BY ROBYN HOLMES

ELDERLY people are sleeping in shifts because they are too afraid their house will be broken into or their vehicles will be stolen as Atherton suffers an “unprecedented” crime wave, Tablelands Re gional Council was told last week.

Cr Bernie Wilce told the council meeting the situation was terrible when people had to take such drastic action even though they lived in a small country town.

“We have a genuine problem and we’ve got to work with the community to fix it,” he said.

“Four vehicles were stolen last week and I have seen for myself how youths hang around the shops in town, and hide in trees casing them early in the morning.

“We are aware that 90 per cent of the crimes committed are by a small group of juveniles, some of them have come up here from Cairns.”

Cr David Clifton said even a small place like Yungaburra was being targeted by the young crim inals.

“There have been a number of cars stolen and a number of reports of people lurking around back yards – even in a place like Yungaburra, it’s a problem,” he said.

Data from the Queensland Police website shows 318 offences were committed in Atherton over the past three months, including 45 reports of unlawful entry, 75 charges of theft, 20 incidences of unlawful use of a motor vehicle, 34 assaults, and 36 charges of property damage.

In Yungaburra during the same period, there

Town devastated as fire destroys historic church

A HISTORICAL church in Herberton that has been standing since the early 1890s has burnt to the ground in a mat ter of minutes, leaving the small com munity reeling.

Local fire firefighters were called to the Herberton Uniting Church on Wil liams Street last Friday around 10am to find it engulfed in flames.

The 120-plus-year-old church con tained a high fuel load and burnt fierce ly.

Before the first truck was onsite, the walls had caved in and the building was fully engulfed. Police are still investi gating the cause of the fire.

Police would like to speak to any witnesses, or anyone with CCTV or dashcam footage, from that area.

The church was used jointly by the Uniting Church congregation and the Assembly of God congregation.

Uniting Church congregation leader Shaaron Linwood was gutted to see the church’s destruction like many other community members who gathered at the site after the blaze was contained.

“The fact that something that so his toric in a little town that bases its exist ence these days on history has burned down is devastating,” she said.

“There were so many people coming down to look and they were as absolute ly gutted as I was.”

Ms Linwood is not holding out hope to salvage two WW1 commemorative plaques that were installed in the church to honour the local men who fought and died in the war, believing they burned along with the building.

Currently there is no official plan for the Uniting Church and the Assembly of God congregations, however they may hold their next service in the park.

were 20 offences, while there was 43 at Malanda, 17 of which were related to theft.

In the same period, the region’s other major town, Mareeba, recorded 468 offences.

Council received correspondence from Ather ton Police last week, prompting the discussion on what role council could play in helping to remedy the situation.

Mayor Rod Marti said he wanted to know more about what was happening on the ground and moved that council hold a workshop on crime and community safety to inform the council of what work was being done by different agencies in the town and what role council could have in assisting that work.

“My concern is that we need to be better in formed as a group of councillors as to what is hap

pening – I am not well informed and need more knowledge and awareness of what is going on and what is being done,” he said.

“We can’t take the lead in this but we have role to play.”

Deputy Mayor Cr Kevin Cardew said he agreed council could assist in some ways but believed the key to having real success in reducing crime was for the State Government to change the laws.

“The State needs to change the laws so that people who offend, the punishment reflects the crime which it’s not at the moment,” he said.

“When we have a situation where people have to sleep in shifts, that’s just not on.

“People are expected to be locked up like a for tress in their own home. We must advocate to the Stage Government to change the laws.”

The remains of the church that was destroyed by fire. INSET: The fire rips through the historic church.

Christmas lights warning

AS locals begin turning on their light dis plays this Christmas, Ergon Energy is re minding everyone to treat the decorations as they would any electrical appliance.

Far North area manager Charlie Casa said taking a few precautions when installing Christmas lights and other powered decora tions could mean the difference between a happy festive season and a tragedy.

“Before installing Christmas lights, check that wires, fittings and lights are in good working order and if they appear to be faulty or you have concerns, either have them checked and repaired by a qualified techni cian or simply throw them out,” he said.

“Make sure you only use lights marked for outdoor use outside the home and don’t overload power points when running multi ple devices and when installing lights out side remember to Look Up and Live - never place them near the powerline that feeds your home from the power pole on the street.”

Group rejects grant

AN animal welfare organisation will return a $6000 grant to Tablelands Regional Council be cause it refuses to work with an animal rehoming group in the region.

The Atherton District Animal Welfare Society approached council earlier this year to increase the amount of funding it receives from $5000 a year to $10,000 a year to allow the group to provide more vouchers to people to desex and microchip their pets.

Council decided to increase the amount to $6000 a year over three years but it came with a re quirement to sign a Memorandum of Understand ing to provide vouchers to other organisations that assist in the rehoming of animals.

Due to a legal issue the society currently has with a rehoming organisation working in the re gion, secretary Iris Crawford wrote to the council to advise it would not be able to sign the MoU and

therefore would return the funds.

“The problem arose when we were advised by this sole trader, rehoming organisation that they also had an MoU with council for the rescue of impounded rehomeable animals,” the letter said.

“We presently have a defamation case with this particular organisation and we can see no way we can deal with them.

“As explained to your Community Services manager, we would have no problem dealing with any other rescue group on the Tablelands, however since council is insistent we deal with this particu lar organisation, we will have no alternative but to reject the offer of $6000 and not sign the MoU.”

Council officers put forward that the money should be still used for the desexing and micro chipping of pets, but Deputy Mayor Cr Kevin Cardew wanted the $6000 to be put back into the general fund.

“Again, it’s a budget thing, we are trying to save money, cut costs, we already have funding in the budget for Local Laws to do microchipping and desexing,” he said.

“We shouldn’t put more money into that just because we’ve come across a saving.”

But Crs Dave Bilney and Bernie Wilce stressed how important it was to keep supporting the ongo ing desexing and microchipping of animals, saying it would assist Local Laws officers in the long run.

Council voted 6-1 to allow the funds to be still used for that purpose.

Despite not having the additional $6000 a year from the council, the Atherton District Animal Welfare Society will continue to provide vouch ers to residents of the Tablelands local government area to assist them with the desexing and micro chipping of pets.

Opening up school history

BY ELLIE FINK

A CAPSULE of letters and trinkets lost in time will be resurrected from the soil at Yungaburra State School after 30 years, with the commu nity invited to come along and witness history on 3 December.

Former principal John Rutherford and groundsman Ashley Cupitt worked at the his toric school in 1992 when the grade four class buried their letters.

Three decades later, they returned with hopes to find it.

“(Mr Cupitt) and I talked about that capsule several times over the years and how it should come out,” Mr Rutherford said.

“I knew that Jo McDougall was the new principal and was interested in the school’s history and she was just as keen to know where it was.”

After approaching the school, Ms McDou gall was keen to find the time capsule and learn about its contents.

After finding it under a few leaves on the

school’s Delaforce Oval, she arranged for it to be dug up as soon as possible.

“I only discovered it on a pupil free day in September when John and Ashley popped into the office to see if they could have a look around for it,” she said.

“Listening to them tell the story of the his tory around it really interested me and it was so good to have a history walk through the school.

“I walked away from it and had a think about it – it’s 2022 which makes it 30 years since it was buried there so it was a great time to honour the school’s history and open the capsule.”

The P&C immediately began organising the event, with vice-president and ex-student Anita Brennan starting up a Facebook group to track down the students who created the capsule.

The official opening of the capsule will be at 9am this Saturday at the Yungaburra State School Hall, with a sausage sizzle and a light morning tea provided.

Students Ruby Clam, Thomas Borrensen, Alexis Bathe and Alexandra Brown with principal Jo McDougall, past principal John Rutherford and P&C vicepresident Anita Brennan at the time capsule site.

Love of Christmas trees

ALL 600 trees available at the Atherton Christmas Tree Farm have been snatched up this year, with the property experiencing an influx of Christmas lovers coming through their doors.

During the farm’s annual tagging day, majority of the trees were sold out with one of the biggest line-ups they have seen since starting the business.

Owners Juana and Alex Ado berg were beyond shocked by the demand and Ms Adoberg said it would have been one of their biggest years if they had more trees.

“We have about 10,000 trees at any time, from seedlings to full grown and this year we only

Shire committed to green future

BY RHYS THOMAS

MAREEBA Shire Council has gained another prong in its on going fight to combat climate change and preserve the Great Barrier Reef after it endorsed the 2022-23 Reef Guardian Action Plan.

The Reef Guardian Program helps to effectively manage and protect the reef by using a coordi nated effort from relative indus tries, communities and all levels of government.

The action plan addresses five key areas in the reef’s protection – climate change, catchment de velopment, land-based run-off, direct use and reef heritage and social values.

It pairs well with council’s ex isting Climate Change Resilience Policy which is partially respon sible for the newly constructed buy back shop at the Mareeba Transfer Station.

With the Barron River run ning through the shire and out to the sea, Mayor Angela Toppin said council remained committed

to protecting the Great Barrier Reef’s health.

“Our activities in the Maree ba Shire will contribute to reef health now, and into the future,” she said.

In line with this pledge, Ma reeba recently committed to the Reef Guardian Council Action Plan for one year which makes it easier to adjust policies as time goes on.

“This is a rapidly changing space and by adopting the poli cy on an annual basis, council’s policy can change in response to new opportunities and the latest developments in sustainability,” Mayor Toppin said.

Councillor Lenore Wyatt represents council in the reef guardian program and is proud of council’s commitment to the plan for the next year.

“Council has been an active Reef Guardian Council, deliv ering initiatives focused on au diting energy consumption, in vesting on solar energy at nine council-owned facilities, imple menting cool burns to reduce

fuel loads across the shire and educating community members on a range of environmental and sustainable topics,” she said.

“Council also opened a buy back shop in August 2022 to pro mote diversion of resources into the circular economy, encourage dialogue and minimise waste generation.”

Along with being a Reef Guardian Council, Mareeba is also part of the Rivers to Reef Climate Resilient Alliance along side Tablelands Regional Council and Yarrabah Aboriginal Shire.

“The Rivers to Reef Alliance was a great initiative and the councils considered the future of low carbon economies in FNQ,” Mayor Toppin said.

“This type of working group provides an opportunity explore new ideas together, and in a re gional context.”

Nearly 700kw of solar panels were installed at council build ings over the past year including the Mareeba wastewater treat ment plant, a big user of power.

It even recently established

the Green House Gas Emissions Inventory which allows council to identify new ways to reduce its carbon footprint.

“Mareeba Shire Council’s initiatives will be delivered at no additional cost to ratepayers but will reap environmental benefits now and in the future,” Mayor Toppin said.

“Climate change is a global issue, and we all need to be part of the solution at a local level.”

had around 600 trees available,” she said.

“Usually, we have around 2000 but due to unfavourable growing conditions over the past two years along with de mand increase during Covid, it is taking us a couple of years to catch up.

“We are usually very busy on our first weekend, but we were not expecting that kind of line at that time of the morning definitely surpassed our expec tations and we were definitely blown away.”

Although there are very lim ited trees left, the farm will re main open until 23 December.

Atherton Christmas Tree Farm owner Juana Adoberg was not expecting the huge influx of customers during their tagging day.

Australia Day award nominations closing

DO you know someone in the community who deserves rec ognition?

Now is the time to nominate exceptional people and groups in our community for a Table lands Regional Council 2023 Australia Day Award.

“The awards recognise out standing locals who make our region a great place to work, live and play,” Mayor Rod Marti said.

“It’s a great opportunity for me as Mayor, and all of us in the community, to celebrate the contribution these people and organisations have made.

“Some have achieved won ders with their sporting endeav

ours while others give up many hours of their time to help in our community.

“We want to honour them and show they are appreciated.

“It only takes a few minutes to nominate someone for an award.”

Categories include: Citizen of the Year, Young Citizen of the Year, Community Event of the Year, Community Service, Inclusion, Sports Supporter, Sports, Junior Sports, Cultural, and Junior Cultural.

Nominations can be made until 5pm on Monday 19 De cember by going to www.trc. qld.gov.au/australia-day.

Iconic local telephone guide helps BlueCare with donation

THE 2023 Atherton Tableland Telephone Guide has been of ficially released and publishers Leigh and Rhonda Robinson have presented a $5,000 dona tion to BlueCare and Respite Centre Atherton.

The iconic telephone book has been published for several years to help raise funds Blue Care centres in Atherton and Mareeba.

An additional $6,000 has been raised this year as a result of donations sent in by recipi ents of the last local phone book.

Since the beginning $498,000 has been raised for BlueCare on the Tablelands.

The Atherton Phone Book

sports tough-wearing green cov ers and includes a Blue Care fundraising letter with replypaid envelope, an easy way to donate to Blue Care.

Ten pages of maps cover ing all major Tableland towns are also included. In total, 13,500 copies of the publication were delivered to every house hold, business and farm from Walkamin to Mt Garnet, and from Tinaroo to Millaa Millaa, with Georgetown district in the Gulf Country also included in the circulation area.

Additional copies are on sale for $4.40 at Office Choice Atherton, and Mareeba News.

Leigh Robinson presenting BlueCare clinical care coordinator Emily Cowen (left) with a $5,000 cheque.

Keeping

BY ROBYN HOLMES

KEEPING pace with population and industry growth and managing the rising costs of providing services are challenges facing Tablelands Regional Council, according to Mayor Rod Marti.

Mayor Marti made the comments in the 2021-22 Annual Report which provides a detailed picture of what the organisation has achieved over the 12-month period.

“With the Tablelands an ideal place to raise a fam ily, we have and are experiencing exponential growth – our population is approaching 27,000 and many of the new arrivals are young professionals with fami lies,” he said.

“Our gross regional product is up 7.3 per cent ($1.4 billion) from the previous year and this will continue for some time with major investments un folding.”

Some of the highlights for the Mayor was the de velopment of the Tablelands 2030+ Community Plan, taking the first steps towards the development of Prior

Creek Precinct, and the organisation’s progress in its “reconciliation journey”.

“Recognising our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Is lander culture, showing leadership in our reconcili ation journey and building strong relationships is a priority for the organisation,” he said.

“We are also committed to doing much more work in the areas of social inclusion and employment –council is actively seeking to increase our percentage of indigenous employees.”

In his message, CEO Gary Rinehart said the or ganisation was focussed on improving the way it de livered projects and finding savings without compro mising customer outcomes.

“We have commenced a service level review which will inform our next budget discussions and provide greater understanding of the long-term im pacts of service-related decisions for sustainability,” he said.

He noted that council had delivered 76 per cent of the approved capital works program, spending $22.5 million renewing, upgrading and building new assets which increased the overall value of its assets by 16

per cent or $99.39 million.

Some of the capital works completed were the English Street upgrade at Malanda, a new animal management facility, two new playgrounds at Tolga and Malanda, a new reservoir at Ravenshoe, the re placement of the Webster Road bridge, and the up grading of the Turner Road, Blencoe Creek and Won gabel Road bridges.

The report outlines a wealth of achievements for the organisation over the 12-month period, including being successful in gaining 48 grants, securing $6.8 million in funding to deliver 30 projects.

Total revenue for the organisation was $76.64 mil lion, of which 61 per cent came from rates, levies and charges, and an expenditure of $63.25 million, ending up with a net result of $13.38 million.

Financial grants provided to the community to talled $172,881 including $73,000 to support a vari ety of events throughout the year.

In relation to staff, the report shows the council had 80 departures over the year and recruited for 70 positions.

The new playground at Jack May Park.

The new Merragallan Bridge at Malanda was one of the highlights of the year for TRC.

THE Salvation Army is aiming to raise over $3 million for those in need this festive sea son as they launch their annual Christmas Appeal with several events set to be held on the Tablelands to raise money for the cause.

The Tablelands Salvos will be hosting events this year including Christmas carols at 10am on Christmas morning, followed by a community Christmas lunch.

Tablelands Corps leader Miriam NewtonGentle said it is important to look after those less fortunate during the holiday season.

“Christmas is always the busiest time of the year for The Salvos but add a turbu lent year with drastic increases to the cost of living, and we are expecting even more individuals and families will need support so that no one is left in need and no child goes without a gift on Christmas Day,” she said.

“To support those doing it tough, The Salvation Army is calling on the kindness, generosity and giving spirit of the Table lands community to help make Christmas a joyful time for everyone.

“If you can afford to lend a hand or do nate, you will be making a huge difference to those who are really struggling.

“We are in need of toys, gifts, and nonperishable food items which can be dropped off at 89-91 Kennedy Highway Tolga, or 47 Grace Street, Herberton or if you’d like to volunteer, please contact me on 07 4091 3224.”

Thanks to the generosity of the Queens landers during last year’s Christmas season, The Salvation Army nationally distributed over 9,500 hampers and vouchers to those struggling to make ends meet, nearly 4,000 gifts and toys to families who might other wise have gone without, over 19,500 meals and provided more than 9,900 beds for over 1,500 families in need of accommodation.

To register for the local events being held by the Tablelands Salvos, call 0418 722 250.

Arnetts retrace family history

THE direct descendants of the late Bill and Doris Arnett retraced their steps and rediscovered their roots recently during a trip of the Tablelands.

On 3 October 1952, the Arnetts and their eight children boarded the Cameronia ship from the port of Glasgow and headed to Australia through a sponsorship by Hebert Joseph Geraghty and Councillor Raymond Rex from Mossman Shire.

Bill passed away in 1992 and Doris passed away in 1997 and their children to this day still honour their great courage travelling to Australia and across the Tablelands.

To celebrate the 70th anniversary of their ar rival to Australia, the Arnett children, grandchil dren, and great grandchildren toured the Table lands to visit places of significance.

Over two days, they travelled by bus from Cairns to Julatten to Tarzli and Millaa Millaa.

In 1952, the original family was loaded into the back of a cattle truck in Cairns and bought to Julatten where they began their life in Australia.

“Coming from Yorkshire, England, to this tropical area would have been quite a shock cli mate wise,” Geoffrey Arnett, one of the Arnett’s

sons, said.

“The style of housing would have also been a shock, as Bill Arnett had been a station master in England, and now was moving into an unsealed house, complete with a resident carpet snake, no electricity and no running water in the house.”

The family stopped at the house where they once lived in Julatten and had lunch at Geraghty Hall, where they were joined by Barry Mildren who told stories of his memories of the Arnett family.

The next day, the group travelled to Tarzali where the Arnett family grew up, with three daughters being welcomed to the world.

The next stop was Heidke Road in North Johnston where their 12th child was born and then a stop in Malanda so the family could have lunch and reminisce.

“As you would imagine the stories that were told as they travelled together around the Table lands, and at dinner that night, paid testimony to the brave step that the Arnett family took in leav ing the security of England to try their luck in this new country,” Geoffrey said.

“The overriding message that came through both from the original family, and descendants, was that this was a success story.

“The majority of the family have been able to find the work they sought, have been able to purchase their own home, and live the life that they wanted. All agree that the decision made 70 years ago was the right one for this family.”

The family has now grown from 12 to 168, with majority of them remaining in North Queensland.

The direct descendants of Bill and Doris Arnett reconnected with their roots in a two-day tour of significant places on the Tablelands.

The Arnett family travelled to Australia from Glasgow to start a new life in 1952.

Motorists vent over quality of upgrade

BY ROBYN HOLMES

MOTORISTS have vented their dissatisfaction with the upgrade to the Kennedy Highway be tween Mareeba and Atherton, with most complain ing bitterly about the quality of the works and the lack of any overtaking lanes.

More than 150 commented on a Facebook post by The Express as to what they thought of the up grade, with the overwhelming majority slamming the “finished product”, saying the road was patchy, bumpy and would break up when the wet season hits.

“What an abortion of a road repair. I commute this road every day and it’s a complete waste of time and money,” one person wrote.

“People at the top need to lose their jobs over misappropriation of funds and be held accountable for it, in particular the bloke who is signing it off.

“At least you won’t fall asleep while driving. Vibrations, bumps grooves that deviates the steer ing, frustration from slower traffic and nowhere to overtake. We’ve been ripped off and I want my money back!”

“Road is still horrible - could’ve done a bet ter job. Road is rough as guts, water lays in the low spots where it has been joined and already pot holes are starting to happen,” another wrote.

“Two years of road works that were a complete waste of time and that road is far from finished. The road surface is atrocious, the first decent rain we get is going to see that fall apart, there’s al ready/still ripples, holes and deep wheel ruts in the road,” another person posted.

Other people were concerned about the safety guardrails that have been installed, saying it now didn’t allow motorists to pull over when necessary.

“The time it took very much just a total waste of money as a major transport route the lack of overtaking lanes and safe pull over areas instead they fence the edges in so you can’t pull over if required,” one person wrote.

“Not only no passing lanes but they also re moved quite a few straights where there were broken lines for passing opportunities making the

road more frustrating. And where the ‘safety barri ers’ have been installed leaves no room to pull off the road to change a tyre for example?!! Incred ible!!!”

“You say it's finished! How about around Rocky Creek where it's worse than before. The reflectors on the rails on the bridge have not been replaced and they no longer reflect at night,” another wrote.

“Once the wet season gets established, there will be more potholes than ever with the uneven surface.”

A Transport and Main Roads spokesperson said repairs to the surface of the road near Rocky Creek were imminent.

“Part of this project included resurfacing work around Rocky Creek, which we are aware was re cently damaged and are working with our contrac tor to repair,” the spokesperson said.

“Repairs are expected to be completed next month depending on weather and sub-contractor availability.

“Further to that, we understand the importance of the Kennedy Highway for the Tablelands com munity and are progressing planning to install new overtaking lanes between Mareeba and Raven shoe.

“We will provide more detail about the pro posed location and timeframe for construction of these overtaking lanes as soon as information is available.”

Currently, Main Roads is widening the highway on the eastern side of Mareeba which is expected to be completed early next year.

“Right now, we are nearing completion of a project around Mareeba, which is the sixth and final stage of a $45 million program of safety up grades between Kuranda and Mareeba, fully fund ed by the Queensland Government,” the spokes person said.

“This is also being supported by the $35 mil lion Intelligent Transport System rollout between Cairns and Mareeba which will improve safety and traffic flow on the Kuranda Range.

“Construction of the ITS is expected to be com plete in early 2023, weather permitting.”

Mayor’s Update

Mareeba Shire Council Mayor Angela Toppin

On behalf of Mareeba Shire Council, I would like to open this final ‘Mayor’s Update’ for 2022 by acknowledging the community spirit of residents, community groups and businesses in the Mareeba Shire.

During the last 12 months, I have wit nessed a continued ral lying of community, business and industry to face some significant challenges.

The recovery from the pandemic continues and is reflected in our economic data with the Mareeba Shire’s Gross Regional Product now at pre-pandemic levels.

This is a credit to all who have worked hard to meet the challenges of the pandemic, including moving forward during a labour shortage which is being experienced across the country through to dealing with major supply chain chal lenges including delays and price increases.

During this time, Coun cil remained focussed on

delivering quality ser vices for our community, by bringing down a bal anced budget which is within the means of the ratepayers, and remains true to the long-term fi nancial plan.

Now, I am looking for ward to the completion of the new playgrounds at Centenary Park in Kuranda and Amaroo Park on Hastie Road in Mareeba, and also to the opening of the Splash Park in Mareeba in the coming months.

As Mayor, I have been privileged to attend an incredible number of community events and functions throughout the year, with some local Clubs celebrating major milestones in the last 12 months.

I commend every res ident who volunteers in the Mareeba Shire. While it is difficult to quantify, the significant benefits of those volun teer efforts must be rec ognised.

In closing, I am pleased to advise that the May

or’s Christmas Appeal is now accepting cash donations. These cash donations are provided to the community cen tres across the Shire to distribute vouchers to families in need.

If you have never donat ed before, I would like to ask that you consid er making a small do nation to the Mayor’s Christmas Appeal for the first time in 2022.

The smallest donation, made by many, will add up and spread much needed kindness and generosity this Christ mas season.

Mayor Angela Toppin

Cup lunch benefits foundation

THE Black Cockatoo Foundation has received a cheque for nearly $2000 after Mareeba’s Gateway Hotel hosted a Melbourne Cup day fundraiser.

The day saw locals dress up and celebrate the day with raffles, a lucky door prize, live music and more with a total of $1764 dollars raised.

The foundation was established by the Ma reeba and Communities Family Healthcare

earlier this year to address mental health in the community and provide programs, training, seminars and more.

Healthcare board chairman Ross Cardillo said the amount of support the foundation has received since it was established has been amazing.

“We are delighted about this donation and hope the Mareeba Gateway will make this an annual event,” he said.

New Tablelands ag committee meets

MEMBERS of Tablelands Regional Coun cil’s new Agricultural Advisory Committee met for the first time last week.

The new committee, which was an nounced in June, is aimed at assisting and providing advice to council in relation to matters affecting the region’s agricultural sector.

Twelve community members have been appointed to the committee which will be chaired by Cr David Clifton. The committee members are: James Geary, Clayton Lynch, Jason Ward, Richard Cuda, Robert Hamil ton, James Gerahty, James Howe, Laurence Masasso, Maryann Salvetti, Sandra Curcio, Greg English and Colleen McLucas.

Mareeba Gateway Hotel staff presenting Mareeba Communities Family Health Care board member Betty Dickinson (second from right) with a cheque from the recent Melbourne Cup fundraiser.

New committee to focus on planning

A NEW committee has been established to deal with the growing number of planning matters before Tablelands Regional Council, but Mayor Rod Marti has made it clear he doesn’t support the move.

The new committee, which will meet on the second Thursday of every month, was initiated by Cr Peter Hodge who believes the council must be more responsive to the development industry.

During the lengthy discussion about whether there was a need for the committee, Cr Hodge said planning applications had doubled or even tripled than a few years ago, creating a greater demand on officers.

“We need two meetings a month to deal with all the items from planning,” he said.

“(Planning) consultants are very, very wor ried about getting applications to council because if they miss a date (deadline for reports to come to council), it’s another six weeks before another meeting is held so it’s imperative that we have an extra meeting a month to handle these applica tions.”

Cr Hodge said consultants were also “scared” that the workload on officers to get reports to a monthly meeting could “lead to failures”.

“People from the industry are saying it’s need ed,” he told the meeting.

But Mayor Marti was opposed to the move, saying “it’s a big call to double our meetings”.

“We are working towards a better way to deal ing with planning matters – change is underway, it’s happening and we are moving in the right di rection,” he said.

“The justification (for a second meeting) is not there and for us to go from 12 to 24 meetings, there has to be major benefits.”

Cr David Clifton backed the move, saying de lays in decision making, even by as little as six weeks, could have financial ramifications for de velopers, particularly as inflation levels continued to rise.

“We have an obligation to the people who want to develop in our region to be as responsive as we reasonably and professionally can,” he said.

CEO Gary Rinehart agreed the planning de partment was “under the pump” and very busy, with applications twice what they were a year ago.

Cr Bernie Wilce agreed that the additional meeting every month could work and said he would support the move if it assisted with the ef ficiency of the planning department but wanted it to be reviewed after a period of time.

The change got over the line by just one vote, with the first meeting of the new Planning Com mittee to be held on 8 December.

Alleged police assault results in arrest

A 15-year-old girl has been charged after an incident in Atherton last week.

Police attended an address on Crisp Close at about 12.30am on 21 November in relation to another matter, when the girl allegedly be came aggressive and threw her phone at po lice.

As she was being arrested, she allegedly punched a female officer in the face before spitting on the same officer.

Police will allege that an 18-year-old wom

an at the address attempted to stop police from arresting the girl, grabbing at their arms and obstructing them, before being arrested her self. She was charged with two counts each of obstruct police and commit public nuisance and one count of contravene a direction.

The 15-year-old was charged with one count each of enter premises and commit indi catable offence, serious assault police, serious assault police by spitting and serious assault with intent to resist arrest.

OVER 400 people gathered at Mareeba’s Arnold Park recently as four local churches joined hands to welcome south pacific islander workers who may be feeling homesick while they work in Australia.

The Abundant Life, Baptist, Community of Hope and Roy als churches banded together to host a Hope Gathering with free food, some drinks and music by local bands and even a Tongan Choir.

Many south pacific islander peoples live and work in Maree ba, some for extended periods of time due to Covid, so local Ma reeba churches hosted the gath ering to welcome them into the community and let them knows there are places of worship available to pray or just visit.

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MAREEBA SHIRE COUNCIL - COMMUNITY UPDATE

A TIME FOR GIVING

At

“Bob was a long-term chairman of the Speewah District Residents Association (SDRA) and as chairman his contribution was immense,” said Annie Austin, SDRA Chair.

“While Bob’s many altruistic activities extended to the broader Kuranda community, the SDRA submitted the renaming of the bridge to Council in account of Bob’s extraordinary work in telecommunications in Speewah.” Ms Austin explains.

Council considers input from community members for the naming of roads and water crossings. Submissions involving a request for a name which is not already on an approved list for the relevant district, will be referred to Council for approval.

Council is pleased to rename the bridge after Bob Madden. The signs will be manufactured in the near future, and Council looks forward to the official renaming of the bridge at an event early in 2023.

The 2022 Mayor’s Christmas Appeal has been launched. Each year, generous community members and organisations make donations which Council then distributes to local families in need with the help of Community Centres across the Shire.

Council would like to encourage residents to get behind the annual cause and donate to the appeal to assist those in need. If you have never donated before, consider making a small donation to the Mayor’s Christmas Appeal for the first time in 2022.

Your donations will be gratefully accepted at Mareeba Shire Council Customer Service Centre’s in Mareeba and Kuranda.

Donations can also be made by cheque and mailed to PO Box 154, Mareeba QLD 4880. Please make the cheque payable to ‘Mayor’s Appeal Gift Fund’. Visit Council’s website and search ‘Mayor’s Christmas Appeal’ for more information.

Rock Painting for Adults Porcelain Plate Painting for Kids

View availability and book online or contact the Mareeba or Kuranda Library.

COUNCIL PROJECTS IN PROGRESS

Mareeba Shire Council is making significant progress towards the completion of capital projects throughout the Shire.

Council’s Capital Works program focusses on the renewal and upgrade of Council infrastructure and is funded through a combination of Council’s own funding and external grants and subsidies.

Two current projects are the new playgrounds at Centenary Park in Kuranda and the Mareeba Eastern Catchment Park (Amaroo) which are progressing well. The Splash Park in Mareeba will also be completed in the coming months.

Council is continuing to work towards the commitments made in the 'Parks and Open Spaces Action Plan'.

LIBRARY CHRISTMAS CRAFT PROGRAM

COUNCIL RENAMES BRIDGE IN HONOUR OF BOB MADDEN

the Ordinary Council Meeting on Wednesday, 16 November 2022, Council approved the renaming of the Groves Creek Bridge, Speewah to the Bob Madden Bridge.

Councillors at a recent event to commemorate Mr Madden's service to the Mareeba Shire.

Churches welcome workers with hope

Just over 400 people attended a special Hope Gathering at Mareeba’s Arnold Park recently to welcome south pacific islander workers to the community.

Atherton footy coach supports relocation sentencing

AN Atherton local with decades of ex perience dealing with troubled youth has offered his skills in training and mentor ing if a relocation facility was to be estab lished to address local youth crime.

Des Pascoe has coached and been a sports trainer for junior and senior rugby league and union for over two decades and has firsthand experience in dealing with troubled youths.

Mr Pascoe has even been indirectly af fected by crime himself with his son los ing $40,000 worth of equipment in recent weeks to theft and a tradie friend of his losing his ute and tools.

As a coach, he had dealt with “wild” and “ill-disciplined” kids who he men tored by providing skills and benefits.

Mr Pascoe has now thrown his support behind Katter’s Australia Party’s longtouted relocation sentencing policy.

“Sending them to jail doesn’t give them any benefit when they come out, in league we did activities that gave them skills, we spoke to them about what ca reers they wanted and how they could get there, what they had to study,” he said.

“I think relocation will take them out of their comfort zone and that will help break the cycle, we can get them into courses.

“Sometimes when kids are being naughty, you have to stop punishing them and I think they need encouragement.

“You cannot praise them for stealing,

but if they were able to cook a meal, you say 'thanks for that'.”

Relocation sentencing involves send ing repeat offenders to remote properties to work the land while completing com pulsory therapeutic programs over a 6-12 month period.

Mr Pascoe said with the escalating crime rate, he agreed with the KAP that it was “time to think outside the box”.

“The current system… the crime is in creasing so I’m not sure you can say the current system is working,” he said.

“Perhaps these kids believe what they’re doing is their right and they can’t see any other way.”

Mr Pascoe said if a relocation facil ity was established, he would be highly motivated to assist in skills training and mentoring.

“Our kids are our future, they're our next politicians, our next police officers, our next tradies,” he said.

“You've got to have the morals, prin ciples, scruples of knowing when you're getting off track without getting jailed and that comes from being mentored.”

The KAP is actively pushing for the Palaszczuk Labor Government to fund a trial of the scheme, calling for an initial investment of about $15 million.

MAREEBA Shire is monitoring how much treated water is being produced through its plant after a key component of the plant was shut down last month.

A report to council revealed that water consumption throughout the shire had been slightly higher due to a lack of rainfall and that Filter 2 at the Mareeba Water Treatment Plant (WTP) had reached the end of its functional life and was shut down in October.

“While this has resulted in an overall reduction in the plant’s ca pacity, the Mareeba WTP is producing sufficient volume of treated water to meet demand,” the report stated. “The situation is being monitored, and there may be a need to introduce water restrictions if consumption begins to exceed the plant’s capacity.

“Planning is currently underway, and funding committed for a project to upgrade the filtration system at Mareeba WTP in 2023.”

THIRTEEN new vehicles will be purchased by Tablelands Regional Council at a cost of just over $730,000.

Council approved the purchase of eight dual cab and five single cab vehicles from John Cole Toyota for a cost of $731,907.

It also approved the disposal via auction of 13 vehicles they will replace. It is expected it will take up to 26 weeks to receive the new vehicles.

Council upgrades fleet with new vehicles

Atherton’s Des Pascoe has thrown his support behind Katter’s Australia Party’s relocation sentencing and is happy to use his two decades worth of knowledge as a football coach to help mentor troubled youth.

Council Our Community

Projects & Programs Update

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

• slashing in Beatrice, Chilverton, Danbulla, Ellinjaa, Kaban, Lake Barrine, Lake Eacham, Maalan, Minbun, Moregatta, Mungalli, Ravenshoe, Wooroora and Yungaburra

• grading in Butchers Creek, Cashmere, Kirrama, Lake Eacham, Peeramon, Topaz and Yungaburra

• road, culvert and bridge inspections across the region

• sealing of Mehmet Road in Tolga and Claringbold Road in Upper Barron

• bitumen road reseal program

• replacement of Duncan Brown bridge in Malanda

• gravel resheeting on Coolgarra and Harrison roads in Mount Garnet, Picnic Crossing Road near Atherton and Shead Road in Tolga. Follow these and other projects and programs at trc.qld.gov.au/projects

Work With Us

Applications for our trainee and apprentice positions are open until 5pm tomorrow (Thursday 1 December).

• Apprentice Plumber x 2

• Business Trainee — Community Development and Emergency Management

• Business Trainee — Community Services and Finance

• Business Trainee — Local Laws

• First Nations Peoples Tourism Trainee

• Horticulture Trainee

• Land Protection and Nursery Trainee. Go to trc.qld.gov.au/careers for more information and to apply.

Mayor’s Christmas Appeal

Not everyone has money to spare, especially at Christmas time, but a donation to the Mayor’s Christmas Appeal can make a difference to

Join The Conversation

Have your say on the review of our Road Naming Policy at trc.qld.gov.au/engagement-portal. The policy contains approved road names that are given preference when naming new or unnamed roads. Open until Friday 13 January.

Australia Day Awards

Nominate exceptional people and groups for a Tablelands Regional Council 2023 Australia Day Award. There are 10 categories and it only takes a few minutes. Nominate by Monday 19 December at trc.qld.gov.au/australia-day

Paw Patrol

We are conducting a selective approved inspection program to ensure dogs in our region have appropriate fencing and enclosures, and are registered and microchipped. Find out more at trc.qld.gov.au/paw-patrols

Mental Health First Aid Training

We’re running Mental Health First Aid training with Queensland Health at the Ravenshoe Mountain Institute. The training is conducted over two full days, and you need to attend both days. Choose from:

• 8.30am–4.30pm on Tuesday 10 and Wednesday 11 January

• 8.30am–4.30pm on Tuesday 14 and Wednesday 15 February.

The subsidised course is $22 (plus booking fee). Go to tablelandsregionalcouncil.eventbrite.com for more information and to book.

Next Council Meetings

9am Thursday 8 December (Planning Committee)

TRC Boardroom, 45 Mabel Street in Atherton. Not live streamed or recorded.

9am Thursday 15 December (Ordinary Meeting) Coordination Centre, 15 Vernon Street in Atherton. 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

Refurbished bins retell town history

VISITORS and locals taking a walk through Malanda will be able to learn about the town’s rich history with photos and text now printed on five newly refur bished rubbish bins.

The Malanda Chamber of Commerce and Tablelands Regional Council joined hands to deliver the project during the English Street makeover using the Re gional Arts Development Fund, with some help from the Eacham Historical Society.

Each bin contains a piece of Malanda’s history from the as far back as the early 1900s, depicting the logging and dairy industries, Indigenous history, Malanda Show Ball and more.

John de Rooy from Tableland Photog raphy lovingly restored the 19 images that were used on both sides of the bins.

With such positive feedback already being received, further historic images may be prepared for a future upgrade of the bins on James Street.

Push for main road upgrade

TABLELANDS Regional Council has written to Minister for Transport and Main Roads Mark Bai ley and State Member for Hill Shane Knuth in a bid to get a section of Upper Baron Road upgraded to two lanes.

The move comes after residents met with Mr Knuth and councillors recently to speak out about the condition of the last remaining 5.5km single lane section of Upper Barron Road into Malanda.

Council has told Mr Bailey the road must be upgraded to two lanes, claiming the condition of the road had worsened since the completion of the road widening of the western end.

“The amount of traffic has increased with population growth, wind farm projects, cattle and fuel transport and an increasing number of tourists

visiting Bloomfield Swamp,” the council’s motion stated.

“With the increased traffic the shoulders of the road quickly wash out and deteriorate at the first sign of rain leaving the road in a very dangerous condition until the next scheduled maintenance event.

“Residents along this section of road are ex tremely concerned for their safety and the safety of other road users and especially for their chil dren who travel on the school bus twice a day.

“The traffic of large trucks and the like has continued to increase due to population increases, quicker access for heavy vehicles accessing the Kennedy Hwy due to the completed upgrade to two lanes on the western end.”

Leagues Club Response

It is with some reluctance we respond to the recent unprofessional print media banter and inaccurate facts written by Mr Paul Johnstone, published in the Wednesday 16th November issue of the Mareeba Express, titled “Challenge likely for Leagues Club Board.

We are all grown up’s here and if any member of the public wish to raise any issue or grievance with the Mareeba Leagues Club, Board or Management, regarding the running of the club, our door is always open, and our phone connected.

Although the term Déjà vu from 2021 comes to mind, the board of the Mareeba Leagues Club would like to provide the members and the Mareeba Community at large of the FACTS and not one individual’s opinion.

The first error in Mr Johnstone’s article is the land on which the club is situated is not owned by the council, as referred to in his article, it is owned by the Queensland State Government.

The Mareeba Shire Council, or perhaps more accurately, the Mareeba community own the Leagues Club building, and lease the land on which it occupies from the State Government.

Apart from state and federal government grants for major infrastructure projects such as roads, sewerage, and water treatment upgrades etc, two of council’s major sources of income are our/your rates and the rental income from the Leagues Club. Yes, over the 29-year period of the current lease, the Mareeba Leagues Club has provided the council with around $5 million in rent. If the $5 million in rental income from the Leagues Club was deducted from the council’s income, it would have to increase other main avenues of income by $5 million (our rates) to continue to provide the services council are obliged to provide the Mareeba Shire and its ratepayers.

Regarding the property in Mason Street. Mr Johnstone was the club president at the time and lobbied strongly to purchase it. On recent inspection, the property did not meet health and occupancy standards, and a considerable amount of money would need to be spent on the property to bring it up to a legal rental condition. Should this amount have been spent on renovations, it would have over capitalized the value of the property, and a return on investment would have taken some years to realize.

When the club was forced to close for four months due to government imposed COVID regulations in 2020, the few hundred dollars per week income from the property in Mason Street, had very little, if any impact on the clubs’ finances. The two reasons the club was able to survive the forced shutdown was due to the cash reserves the club had accumulated by means of prudent financial decisions by the current board and management over the preceding years, and the staff at the time who gave up their own time without pay, to regularly come in and get all those things done that are difficult to do whilst trading. The club also took the opportunity whilst shut to replace the flooring in the bar and kitchen area that was in dire need after 27 years posing workplace and health and safety issues. The external walls of the club also had a well overdue lift and completely re-painted.

The club’s courtesy bus has been out of action for some time due to mechanical issues. There has been little comment from patrons regarding the unavailability of the bus, and those that have asked, have understood, and accepted the club’s reason for its unavailability and the decision, not to re-introduce the bus at this time.

Since the COVID shutdown of 2020 the biggest challenge by far for any hospitality venue nationally, has been finding, hiring, and retaining of experienced (even inexperienced) hospitality staff. The daily management of available staff, allocating people to where they are most needed, and changing that on the run as required, is a huge ongoing daily occurrence. Allocating of staff to take the phone calls for the courtesy bus, organize the travel times to and from, organize the driver and security person, advise the patrons of the departure times, and handle those, let’s say, conversations with those wanting to travel now and not wait for the designated time.

A risk management assessment was also carried out to assess the continuation of the service. Unfortunately, a small number of users of the service were exhibiting very unacceptable behavior towards both other passengers and the driver to the point we had to install CCTV in the bus and have another member of staff on the bus as well as the driver when in use. Due to all these issues, plus the allocating of available staff to administer, manage and drive the bus, along with the verbal and at times physical abuse exhibited towards passengers and the driver, the board have decided to postpone the re-introduction of the service at this time.

The Mareeba Leagues Club building is nearly 30 years old. Somehow the Bistro staff manage to pump out 220 to 250 meals continually and efficiently on any given night out of a kitchen originally designed to do around 60 meals. We are continually unable to accommodate groups bookings in the function room, due to its size, and is often used to accommodate the volume of daily diners. We have four administration and management staff climbing over each other working out of a very confined office space, and we have no provision within the club for a “kids’ area” so young families can visit the club and have the facility to accommodate an area specifically for the kids to enjoy, whilst always in view of the parents.

On the question of what funds are provided by the club to various community services and projects, the club has substantially increased its contribution in both dollars and in-kind provisions each year. We are able to do this because the club has an efficient board with a diverse range of business skills and financial acumen, along with a very dedicated and extremely professional management team.

The Mareeba Leagues Club is a registered business and doesn’t belong to the board, or the management, or the council, or the members, it belongs to the Mareeba community. The profits we are fortunate to achieve are dispersed back to the community through a variety of channels, including sport, schools, charities and many more associations, and to enhance, and continually upgrade and update the benefits, atmosphere and services provided by the club to all its patrons now, and into the future.

We just can’t sit still and attempt to successfully operate the club out of the same structured venue for the next 30 years. The population since the club opened in 1993 has more than doubled, and the club must move forward by renovating the existing premises to accommodate the population growth, and the substantially increased patronage, now, and into the future.

An example of what you must do in the hospitality industry to survive and trade into the future, are what other like venues across the Tablelands have recently completed:

Gateway Hotel - Complete Restoration (Including a large kid’s facility)

Carrington Hotel - Complete Restoration (Including a large kid’s facility)

Kairi Hotel - Complete Restoration (Including a large kid’s facility)

International Club Atherton - Extension and Refit

Tolga Pub - Complete Refit (Including a kid’s facility), and plans to extend

On Behalf of the Board, the Management and Staff of the Mareeba Leagues Club.

David Christensen President Mareeba Leagues Club Inc

Five bins on Malanda’s English Street have received a historical makeover.

Young students think green with Stephanie Alexander

BY ELLIE FINK

treated to a very special visit by one of Aus tralia’s “greatest food educators”, Stephanie Al exander, to celebrate the 10th year of their kitchen garden.

Ms Alexander is renowned for her healthy eat ing recipes, with majority of ingredients coming straight from the veggie garden that she devel oped into her program in which the school par ticipates.

This is the third time Ms Alexander has trav elled north to visit the school and was impressed with their “Stephanie Alexander Garden” and how engaged the students and their teachers were in the kitchen.

“I was struck by the enthusiasm of not only the students but by the teachers and the principal and how beautifully the school arranges itself with the garden – which is just so lovely,” she said.

“I really believe that you’re much more likely to change children’s food habits when they are doing what they enjoy rather than waving your finger at them and telling them ‘Don’t eat that’.

“It is remarkable seeing the program being put in action and how much enthusiasm is involved, especially when the students get to taste some thing new.”

Principal Zarah-Rae Budgen was “over the moon” when she heard Ms Alexander would be visiting once again and was excited to show her how much her program has benefitted their small school.

“I don’t think I actually appreciated what a big deal it was until (the night before) because it is something that our whole community is celebrat ing,” she said.

“It is a celebration of how much this program really means to the school and we are so thankful for the volunteers within our community that got involved and helped us get to this stage.”

Vylett, Miss Budgen, Seth and Tyson with Stephanie Alexander (centre).

Dustin, Miss Cyndi and John loved making pizza together.

Mr Tobias Mott taking fresh pizza out of the oven for Stephanie Alexander.

Stanley and Miss Wendy showing off spinach they grew in the garden.

Tyson, Stanley, Dana and Vylett loved cooking for Stephanie Alexander.

Miss Cyndi and Dana learning to cook.

Desmond took on the job of frying up some seeds.

W DCHALUMBIN

THE Atherton Maize Festival is returning with a bang next year, with a committee of bright new faces making the final touches to the 2023 program.

This is the 60th time the Maize Festival will be celebrated, bringing together the rich agricultural communities across the Ather ton Tablelands.

It has been two years since the last fes tival, with Covid cancelling plans for a 2020 and 2021 festival but the new committee is ready to bring it back to its original roots.

Committee secretary Kirsty Larsen has been involved with the festival since she was a child has watched the small town ag ricultural celebration diversify and grow.

She hopes next year will be better than ever, with the new committee’s goal to keep everything local and give back to charities within the community.

“We want to make it more about the com munity this year and include the schools with different competitions,” Ms Larsen said.

“I was a part of the parade when I was younger and so has the entire committee and it is just great watching everyone have an absolute ball.”

Festivities are due to kick off on 9 Sep tember 2023, with the committee currently brainstorming the reintroduction of the street parade.

In order to bring back the night of celebra tion, they are chasing local businesses who would like to get involved with sponsorship.

The queen competition will also be back, with young women aged 16 and up encour aged to participate.

“The reason we decided to go 16 years

and over is because most of those women have already been presented to society at their debutantes,” Ms Larsen said.

“Through the competition they will learn how to write resumes and present them selves to local businesses, which can pre pare them for employment.

The Maize Ball date has been set for 26 August 2023, with final preparations being made. The theme, “Glitz and Glamour”, will bring the Atherton community together for a night of fun and dancing whilst the queen entrants present themselves.

This year, young Brady Fraser has joined the team to bring the festival back to life, with his family being deeply involved with the festival the agricultural community for decades.

He hopes to “get on a tractor again” and get the younger generation involved once again.

The Maize Festival is still in the works, with final programs and dates still yet to be set in stone but until then, they are calling upon the community for help.

The committee is always welcoming new members to join in and help organise this community event.

Local charity organisations are also en couraged to come onboard and raise funds throughout the festival.

They are also calling on any sponsors to help, especially with the street parade.

All enquiries can be made by emailing secretary.maizefestival@gmail.com or con tacting the Atherton Maize Festival Face book page.

Kuranda

Maize Festival returns Swing in the jungle

A SPECIAL one-of-a-kind jazz spectacular performance will be hosted at the Kuranda Amphitheatre this Sunday with a return ing Kuranda local who made a name for himself as a jazz musician in New York set to perform with help from the Queensland Youth Orchestra.

Swing in the Jungle is a collaboration between the Queensland Youth Orches tra Big Band and local Kuranda jazz artist Jason Campbell who played in New York City and had an album make it into the top five in the American jazz charts.

Jason, otherwise known as JC Stylles, went to Kuranda Primary School in the 70s and was at the very first meeting to discuss the creation of the Kuranda Am phitheatre.

“I was 14-years-old when the very first call went out to the Kuranda community to bring machetes and brush hooks in an effort to clear bush with the idea and con cept of building an amphitheatre,” he said.

“I left Kuranda at 16 to follow my jazz journey.”

After moving to the heart of jazz, New York City, JC signed with Grammy Award winning Label Motema Music and contin ued to pursue his career in jazz.

JC’s name was seen in the USA jazz charts for 13 consecutive weeks after his debut album and his follow-up won the award for highest debut album on the charts and was seen in the top five for many weeks.

Upon returning to his hometown, JC

felt the need to reinvigorate local music by hosting a special one-off performance at the Kuranda Amphitheatre with the help of the Queensland Youth Orchestra Big Band.

“In all the time since the amphitheatre has developed and had all sort of great acts around the world perform, I’ve never even had the opportunity to play at the very place that I had a hand in creating,” he said.

“I am trying to give something back to the amphitheatre especially after Covid basically brought everything to a stop.”

The Queensland Youth Orchestra Big Band is a high quality 22-piece big band showcasing some of the state’s finest young emerging jazz and swing instru mentalists.

It is also part of the world-renowned Queensland Youth Orchestra (QYO) mu sic program.

JC has some experience in organising performances as he produced the larg est Memorial Concert of Jazz at the Lin coln Centre in February 2020 which was opened by Grammy Award winner Wynton Marsalis. He also managed two of New York’s premier jazz clubs, Smalls and Mezzrow.

The doors open at 4.30pm with the per formance set to start at 5.30pm and run for three hours until 8.30pm.

Tickets range from $35-45 and can be bought at www.trybooking.com/CEBGG

born jazz musician JC Stylles will be performing alongside the Queensland Youth Orchestra Big Band this Sunday at the Kuranda Amphitheatre.

Carols kick off festive season

on Mareeba, because Santa Claus is coming to town this Sunday

the annual Mareeba Rotary “Carols in the Park”.

Entertainment from local performers will kick off at 6pm with food and Christmas fam ily photos available from 5pm at Arnold Park.

There will be a variety of local talent per forming on stage, a visit from Santa Claus and his elves and a fireworks display for eve ryone to enjoy will wrap up the evening.

This is Rotary president Caitlin Murray’s first Carols in her position and she beyond excited to welcome everyone to the event.

She believes the annual Christmas Carols is an important event to have in the commu nity as it brings everyone together and allows local talent to shine bright.

“Each year the carols showcase the local talents and it bring the community together to kick off the festive season in Mareeba,” she said.

“Carols in the Park is a tradition in our community and an event full of memories – it is the first Sunday of December where you go to the park with family and friends, buy a can

dle, food, raffle tickets and you feel at home all while enjoying the acts on stage.

“I’m excited to see the joy and happiness on the faces of the community and in the few weeks leading up to the carols, I’ve heard kids asking their parents if they can go to the park to sing carols and see Santa and their friends.

“This event has a special place in my heart – memories of me sitting on the picnic rug with my family and friends holding our can dles and just smiling while we sang our car ols.

“To be able to be more hands on in this event since becoming an adult has meant a lot to me, with Rotary able to help this dream become a reality is something words can’t describe.

“I can’t wait to see the community dressed up in Christmas shirts and costumes and to enjoy a night of entertainment.”

The event kicks off at 5pm this Sunday with people encouraged to bring a blanket and chairs to sit under the stars and watch the performers.

Rotary president Caitlin Murray (centre) with Rotarians Natasha Srhoj and Nina Grant getting in the Christmas spirit for this year’s Carols by Candlelight.

Malanda State Primary School choir entertained the crowd.

Stall holder Sue Watkin. Chloe and Layla Kusabs. David and Summer Robinson. Sam Neilson of Tolga.

Jubilee Christian College 2022

Abelia Bird.

Abner Abdiel.

Amelia Hess.

Annaliese Weinholz.

Ashley Herrington.

Ben Warry.

Caleb Woodward.

Charli Skilling.

Christopher Kauffman.

Ella Frylink.

Danielle Skerman.

Cooper Den.

Jubilee Christian College 2022

Jordan Phillis.

Rebecca Kubenk.

Sophia Asmus.

Emanuel Gunton and Jillian McKenna.

Joshua Hanslow and Lydia Zhang.

Louisa Winiarski and Clairice Lucey.

Riley and Abby O’Donovan

Trinity Davies.

Tylah Burnett.

Jubilee Christian College 2022 FORMAL

Lily Hyland.

Lucia Hartley.

Mary-Nel Van Komen.

Trinity Jones.

Jasmine Kimpton.

Jasmine Savill.

Joshua Savill.

Laura Meeks.

Erynn Wesson

Gemma Cooper.

Gareth Norman.

Clinics connect horses to riders

BY SALLY TURLEY

A

Mr Hancock specialises in the Liberty discipline of horsemanship, which he said was about working your horse “loose”, without ropes or reins or the use of aids such as whips, spurs, crops, bits and even saddles.

In Liberty horsemanship, the horse and rider are viewed as equal, celebrating the freedom and beauty of horses and the re lationships they can develop with their hu mans.

Participants brought their young horses along to increase their education levels through learning different groundwork tech niques, ultimately making them safer under the saddle.

For some students, it was about extend ing their own knowledge about horse man agement, socialising their horses and work ing out what they and their horses were

good at while working as a team.

For others, it was about getting a good connection with their horse on the ground and replicating that bond in the saddle.

Mandy Simpson of Mareeba got the group together on Facebook, after research ing several trainers and choosing Mr Han cock for their clinic.

Donal Hancock grew up on his family's 12,141-hectare cattle breeding block at In june called “Saddlers Springs”, where he says “only Brahmans were tough enough to survive”.

Eventually his parents sold out, but hav ing grown up around them, and feeling their magic, Donal decided to make a career with horses.

At the age of 19, he began a year of work with the Australian Outback Spectacular show on the Gold Coast, before running into the Double Dan Horsemanship crew in 2011.

He went on the road with them, helping them out with their clinics, their entertain ment shows and their breaking and training.

For the next five years he worked between

Using all the knowledge and experience he had gained from the world's best, Donal decided to start his own business in Beaude sert in 2016.

“It felt different stepping out in the horse world with my own new business, but fig ured I had a fair knowledge base and a lot of support and I was lucky enough to get a great group of people in my very first clinic which I held in Townsville,” he said.

“I believe there are two ways to train a horse – mentally and physically.

“Physically, a horse will only be as good as your hands and feet, but horses do have a brain and when they are trained mentally, they will develop their full potential.

“My clinics are designed for all levels of experience, for any discipline and any horse and I try and keep groups down to 10-15 to maintain the standard of instruction.

“I have really enjoyed working with this group and aim to provide a few clinics up this way in the coming year,” he added.

GROUP of horse enthusiasts from across the Tablelands gathered in Malanda recently to complete a three-day workshop with Beaudesert-based instructor Donal Han cock.

Double Dan and multiple well-respected horse trainers in the USA and Canada.

Helen Smith of Mareeba said she and her 4 year old unbroken charge got a lot out of the course.

Claudia Schmeink and Amy Braes wait their turn in the ring.

Millaa school principal, Annie Coase, brought 4-year-old Jacob to socialise him at the clinic.

Ange Evans of Mareeba brought her horse Jolie with the aim of getting a connection with her on the ground that could be replicated in the saddle.

After years of working with horsemen around the world, Donal Hancock is now delivering horsemanship schools around Queensland and New South Wales.

Malanda property sets new sale benchmark

BY SALLY TURLEY

MALANDA biodynamic grazing prop erty, “Waratah”, has sold at auction for $1,750,000, creating a new benchmark for grazing blocks on the Southern Ta blelands.

Located 13km out of Malanda, the 66.1ha (151 acre) property featured a four-bedroom house, outstanding sedge-free pastures, four spring-fed creeks, undercover yards, two sheds and a high annual rainfall.

At Wednesday’s auction, vendors Steve and Odette Plozza received $28,636.88/ha ($11,589.40/acre) in a flattening market for the block they had farmed for over 21 years, exceeding the expectations of both the vendors and Queensland Rural agent, Scott Hart, on the day.

Mr Hart said the property had cre ated significant interest in the market place, with 31 enquiries, eight property inspections and four registered bidders.

“We received enquiries from Vic toria, New South Wales, coastal areas, including Cairns and the Tablelands,” he said.

This created an expectation there would be a flood of offers when bidding opened for auctioneer, Jacko Shephard, but one bold phone bid both opened and closed the auction at $1.75 million, with Mr Shephard unable to raise a sec ond bid from the audience.

The purchasers were Ernie and Ky lie Camp of the 94,000ha (232,278.7 acre) “Floraville Station”, 64km south

of Burketown. Ernie just happens to be Odette's brother and Odette was raised on Floraville Station from four years of age while her husband Steve grew up on “Calvert Hills” in the Northern Ter ritory.

The Camps have become the lat est in a long line of western graziers buying into the Atherton Tablelands to ensure a better lifestyle for themselves during their retirement.

Waratah was placed on the market as part of Steve and Odette's long-term planned exit of their 283.3ha (700 acre) aggregation.

“We made sure our British White breeding herd went to the right owners before we put the block on the market,” Odette said.

After spending over two decades building up their business and convert ing it to a completely biodynamic op eration, Odette said they both realised it was time to reduce their workload and do a bit more travelling.

They have retained a 60.3ha (149 acre) block next door and will begin shifting their steers onto it post-sale. They will be building a new home on their remaining country and intend to keep turning steers off its rich pastures, enjoying its excellent weight gains and strong carrying capacity.

“When we had put together our first 162ha of country, we decided we didn't want to have to work off farm, but the input costs of chemicals and herbicides were too high, so Odette attended a Sustainable Agriculture convention in

“We knew immediately it was right for us. We wanted to get away from the long-established structure where soci ety ‘farms the farmers’. It took us three years before we could see a significant difference in our pastures, which now contain 52 different varieties of leg umes.

“We put the soil first and then fo

Scholarship for future agricultural leaders

ties to develop their leadership skills and ex pand their networks.

Only students studying agriculture-related or STEM degrees with major studies and/or subject selections that align to agriculture can apply.

cused on the cattle, which we changed from Charbray to the rarer British White breed. We gave them a two-year timeframe to perform and decided we would stick with them.”

The Plozza cattle regularly topped their sections in the Mareeba sale over the last couple of years, but the prime cattle were sold to the Mareeba Health Food shop to be retailed as biodynamic beef.

Compared to the $3,296.38/ha ($1334.01/acre) price tag, they received for the parcel of land they sold last year, Steve and Odette were very happy with their sale result.

“We believe Waratah was well and truly worth the money and know it will continue to pay back its new owners if it is well run and respected,” Odette said.

along with Coop erative Research Centre for Developing North ern Australia, FMC Australasia, AgriProve and Kalyx.

It provides university students with a $10,000 bursary over two years and opportuni

If successful they will also get attend an an nual four-day professional development work shop and complete two weeks of industry work placements per year.

For more information and to apply visit www.agrifutures.com.au/horizon applications close Friday, 13 January 2023.

Cairns, where she heard about the Bio dynamic system,” Steve said.

Queensland Rural's Auctioneer, Jacko Shephard (left) and Rural Property and Livestock Specialist, Scott Hart (right), congratulate vendors Odette and Steve Plozza on the benchmark sale of their Malanda biodynamic property, "Waratah”.

LETTERS

to the editor

No support for sale of Atherton park

WE have heard from Councillor Clifton on the sale idea of an Atherton Park but we are yet to hear from a collective coun cil.

This particular park is well treed but other than mowing it has been neglected since its implementation, a lack of vision has permeated through our councils over many years. We should not sell off our parks.

Just past this park, 100m, is a block of land between the CSIRO and the High School, grassed and mowed with one tree on it, used by no one. Is this council owned?

With respect to the old school site in Atherton it requires a professional assess ment with serious community involve ment, it is a precious piece of community land.

Alan Bragg ATHERTON

At a loss to expain town’s crime wave

IT’S not enough we need to lock our homes up like Fort Knox, we also need to be extra vigilant with our vehicles as well.

If it’s not getting stolen and burnt, it’s getting vandalised.

My husband had parked in Main Street, Atherton, to go to a local hardware store and came out to find the car being tagged and keyed causing damage to the paint work.

What the hell is going wrong with us all? I am at a loss to come to any conclu sions. Has anyone else got any ideas?

Jean Goschnick ATHERTON

Mamma Mia – what a professional show

MALANDA Theatre Company has done it again.

Under the direction of the amazing Gill Har rington, cast and crew have brought together a very professional production.

If you were one of the lucky ones to get in early and procure a ticket, you are in for a very enjoy able time.

If you missed out, hope that someone who un fortunately may not be able to make it along offers you theirs.

Congratulations to all involved. Your dedica tion over the past six months has definitely paid off. We are truly lucky to have access to quality theatre on the Tablelands. Thank you for the mu sic!

Judy McDowall MILLAA MILLAA

Referendum on ‘voice’ would

be a travesty

THE proposed referendum to establish an indigenous “Voice” is a travesty, no mat ter what (unrevealed, secret?) form it is to have.

In 1967, Australians voted to remove any right of the Commonwealth Govern ment to make laws specific to any race by removing Section 51 (xxvi) of the con stitution. It also resulted in the inclusion of indigenous Australians in any census.

It was a 97% affirmation of the Aus tralian community’s desire for a step toward equality. “The Voice” is a giant leap backwards re-entrenching racism in our constitution by creating an institution specific to race.

It is a patronising insult to the Indig enous community, and in particular to the, approximately four per cent of Indig enous members of the Commonwealth Parliament that have been elected by their communities to represent them.

Are we to once again say, as we did with the stolen generation, and have on many other occasions, that the Indigenous don’t know how to look after themselves, so we need to appoint a special body to look after their interests?

I think the Indigenous members in Parliament are well qualified to do the job - the likes of Jacinta Price and others are well capable of speaking for their constit uents, both Indigenous and other, with the big advantage that they have been demo cratically elected not appointed by some “Big Brother” institution.

It is a firm no from me, and I urge voters to think hard before considering a patronising entrenchment of racism in our constitution.

Bruce Jones INNISFAIL

Know your bike rules

Do you own a bicycle?

Does your child or children own a bicycle?

Do you ride a bicycle to and from work or just for fun?

Did you know that there are specific bicycle rules other than the normal road rules that you need to abide by?

SENIOR Constable Aleda Day says while some people think wearing a helmet is not cool, a $143 Traffic Infringement Notice (TIN) wouldn’t be cool either and the helmet is there for your safety.

“Numerous people have avoided seri ous head injuries by wearing a helmet,” she said.

Passengers need to wear helmets as well and can only ride on the bike with you, if the bike is designed to carry more than one person or the bike has a seat designed for passengers i.e. a child seat. Handlebars are not a designated seat, and neither are pegs coming from the rear wheel.

“Riders, just like vehicle drivers are not permitted to use a hand-held mobile phone nor drink liquor while riding a bi cycle, these will incur a fine of $1,078 and $431, respectively. Drink riding could cost you a trip before the magistrate,” Snr Const. Day said.

“Trick riding has its place but not on our roads and pathways, so you must be

seated astride the seat facing forwards to wards the handlebars.

“Riding on footpaths, can be danger ous if you are not using the required bell to warn pedestrians that you are near them, and this will also incur a fine.

“Taking the dog/cat or horse for a walk or run, should be just that, you are not per mitted to lead an animal while riding, and you can’t hold onto a moving vehicle and be towed along. All these offences could see you receiving a $143 fine.

“We want to educate riders in relation to some of the more unknown offences, so that they remain safe whilst riding their bicycles and don’t place themselves or anyone else in danger.”

The do’s and dont’s at work Christmas parties

BY KRISTYN LENNON

THE end-of-year work party is a great way to un wind with colleagues and celebrate the festive sea son.

But it’s important to re member that when you’re at a work party, you’re still considered to be at work.

The same expectations around your behaviour in the office apply to your be haviour at the office breakup party.

This applies even if the party is held outside of normal work hours and away from your usual workplace.

Given this, workers and employers can all play a part in making sure people enjoy themselves in a safe and respectful way.

Before the party, em ployers and managers should remind staff about what is considered accept able behaviour and con duct.

They should circulate any relevant organisational policies and procedures, such as those around sex ual harassment, bullying and social media.

Employers should plan the event carefully to en courage safe behaviour. For example, by ensuring alcohol is served respon sibly, and providing food and non-alcoholic drinks.

There should be clear start and finish times for the party, and options for staff to safely get home af ter the event.

If someone is injured at the staff party, or injured on their way to or from the function, they may be eli gible to apply for workers

compensation.

Workers also have a role to play in making sure they stay safe while having fun. This includes consum ing alcohol sensibly, and remembering to maintain professional standards.

Intoxication is no ex cuse when it comes to complaints of inappropri ate workplace behaviour.

Employers can disci pline or potentially dismiss workers who behave inap propriately at a work party.

If you post about your work party on social me dia, remember your behav iour online is still subject to workplace laws.

If your social media posts are deemed inappro priate, this may constitute unlawful behaviour, which could also lead to discipli nary action.

Some workplaces may have to deal with reports of sexual harassment at work parties. It is important to remember that sexual har assment can be physical or verbal.

Partygoers can look out for each other too. Speak out if you see any inappro priate or unsafe behaviour.

If you’re not comfortable doing that directly, you can raise the issue with a manager or senior staff member.

It is unlawful for there to be any negative conse quences for your employ ment because you made a complaint about some one’s behaviour.

Finally, enjoy your staff party and your summer break – you deserve it after a year of working hard.

Normanton 98.5FM

Kristyn Lennon is a Cairns-based lawyer who heads Maurice Blackburn’s Tablelands office. This legal information is gen eral in nature and should not be regarded as specific legal advice. If you have a legal question you would like Kristyn to answer you can contact her at klennon@mauriceblackburn. com.au

ESCAPE to the glorious Mount Surprise and live the most peaceful uninterrupted life.

This gorgeous well cared for Queenslander has been the home of the delight ful owners for 46 years, so many amazing memories.. now time for new ones.

The wonderful small com munity has a pub, 3 caravan parks, local attractions such as The Gem Fields and the Talaroo Hot Springs if you fancy a dip.

Delightful Features of this home include: • Huge 1568sm block

Pink Building- Rogato Real Estate office on Byrnes Street.

acres this con temporary steel frame 4 bedroom home offers acre age space and serenity in a convenient location only 5 minutes from Mareeba town centre.

Features include:

• Fully tiled with a sizeable open plan living area

• 4 generous bedrooms, 3 with built-in robes & master with ensuite

• Modern kitchen with loads of bench space, break fast bar & stainless steel ap pliances including gas cook top

• Laundry with built-in stor age cupboard & hallway linen

cupboard

• Gas hot water system

• Front tiled patio over looking the yard

• 2 x 11,500L water tanks with pressure pump

• 5000m2 low mainte nance allotment with 2ML gravity fed channel water

If you're looking for a small acreage property in a con venient, country setting this

home is not to be missed. It was designed for the tropics and is a clever inte gration of modern and easy care living.

For further information or to arrange a private inspec tion please contact exclu sive agent Joe Torrisi on 0417 700 468.

BEAT the building backlog by making this brand-new prop erty yours. Situated in a quiet cul-de-sac close to Atherton CBD, this property offers a low maintenance lifestyle giv ing you back your weekends.

The well thought out floor plan provides a central en trance hall which leads to the rear of the home where a large open plan living area opens onto the alfresco out door living space.

Features...

• 4 Bedroom newly com pleted home

• Main bedroom features ensuite and large walk-in robe

• Security screens and blinds fitted to all bedroom windows

• Kitchen includes a 90cm dual fuel upright stove, free standing dishwasher,

• Kitchen has Smartstone bench tops with soft close doors & drawers, 1160

Put your money to work and your mind to rest

HERE you will find an attrac tive investment property lo cated in a quiet street.

The home is ready for a savvy investor to expand their portfolio. A quality tenant in place on a twelve-month tenancy earning you an im mediate income.

There is nothing to do as the exterior clay brick con struction saves you money as it never requires painting. For you and your tenant’s peace of mind the home is fully security screened.

This three-bedroom fam ily home has a spacious liv ing area with the lounge and dining room opening onto the front patio with views of the

mountains.

There is a generous sized double lock up garage with access directly into the house and a garden shed for all the extras.

The sizable 860 square metre level allotment is beau tifully established with a low maintenance garden – per fect for the investor and ten ants alike.

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

Address: ATHERTON Price: $379,000 Agent: Trisha Jackson Professionals Atherton Contact: 0419 183 145

SOMMERSET Realty is ex cited to present this low main tenance 3 bedroom home, positioned on a very gener ous 1,012m2 allotment with 3 large sheds.

Whether you have been looking for

•

Address: 36 Planet Avenue, ATHERTON Price: $399,000 Agent: EXCLUSIVE to Raquel Cunzolo Sommerset Realty Contact: 0408 983 879

HAVE you been searching for a solid family home or an ideal investment opportu nity? Located at 21 Vaughan Street, Mareeba sits this concrete construction home within walking distance to the Mareeba CBD.

Situated on a fully fenced 1,037m2 corner allotment, there is plenty of room for kids and pets to play. And if you fancy a game of golf, the Mareeba Golf Course is di rectly across the road. How’s that for convenience!

There is plenty of living space for the whole fam ily here with a large, airconditioned lounge room, a spacious dining room/fam

ily room, perfect for meals and entertainment. The gal ley kitchen is central to the rest of the home and has a servery window into the main lounge room.

All four bedrooms are a good size, and the rear bed room has a private entry from the rear patio, perfect for a teenagers retreat or private master bedroom. The rear patio opens from the dining room and is a great enter tainment space as it over looks the rear yard.

Currently rented at $400 per week, this property of fers the opportunity of great rental returns.

• 4 Bedrooms, 1 bath

room

• Solid concrete construc tion

• Central galley kitchen with servery window

• Large family room/dining space

• Air-conditioned lounge room

• Polished timber floor boards, tiled kitchen and din ing space

• Covered back patio, small front patio, carport

• Fully fenced 1037m2 corner allotment

• Walking distance to Mareeba CBD, across the road from the Mareeba Golf Course

An opportunity like this one is sure to go quick, so call exclusive Agent Vince Costas on 0419 926 691, or pop into the Central Realty Office today.

28o 21o 27o 21o 28o 21o above adjacent althea atmospheric average bureau carpenteria category charley climate cloud coast convection

coral sea corilis crossing cyclogenesis cyclone density disaster dolly equator esther eye felix flash

flood forecast frances front gale gradients gulf heading hectopascals indian king la nina

larry latitude longitude low map meterology monsoon neutral northern occluded ocean ophelia oscillation

outlook pressure ravaged rita scale season severe southern spiral storm synoptic tide tracey

trade tropical trough tsunami upper vortex warm waves western wet wind wreaked yasi

the flesh of a pig used as food, especially when uncured (4)

occurring or provided during an aircraft flight (2,6)

lasting or existing forever; without end (7)

a gold coin formerly current in most European countries (5) 15 informal word for self-indulgently sentimental (5) 17 the state of feeling bored (7) 20 like glass in appearance or physical proper-

31o 20o

ties (8)

21 affected by physical or mental illness (4)

22 a period or state of inactivity or equilibrium (plural) (6)

23 a large metal pot for cooking, usually with a handle (6)

Down

1 having or showing deep religious feeling or commitment (6)

2 old fashioned word for ‘listen’ used to draw attention (4)

3 strongly influencing later developments (7)

4 informal word for a very short time; a moment (5)

5 the height of an object or point in relation to sea level or ground level (8)

6 a respiratory condition causing difficulty in breathing (6)

12 to express (an idea or question) in an alternative way (8)

14 to renounce or give up (something valued or pleasant) (7)

16 a drug derived from or related to opium (6)

18 mystical, supernatural, or magical powers, practices, or phenomena (6)

19 to drink to the honour of someone or something by raising one’s glass together with others (5)

21 to satisfy (a desire or an appetite) to the full (4)

WEEKLY HOROSCOPES

Aries Mar 21 - Apr 19

This week, a small spark could generate some romance. You could find yourself being skeptical of everything. Double check the facts, but remember being kind is always more important than being right. Use this spirit to achieve a lofty goal.

Cancer J UN 21 - JUL 22

This week, you’re steering yourself in the right direction. Your team could be short handed or plans might change at the last minute. You mindfulness practice & being present in the moment will be extra valuable in this state of flux.

Libra

Taurus apr 20 - may 20

This week, move deliberately & get the job done. You’ll be doing your due dilligence & no amount of complaining will make you move faster. This energy will be around for most of the week, use it wisely to really examine your budget.

Leo JUL 23 - AUG 22

This week, you’re close to making a decision. You might feel ready to conquer a new mountain, but which one? It could be hard to sit still for very long. You might end up having an impulsive adventure with loved ones, it could be just the ticket.

Gemini May 21 - Jun 20

This week, you’re setting your sights on something important. You could be easily distracted & more forgetful than usual, leading to getting your wires crossed with your partner. Double check details & write things down. Your calendar is your friend.

Virgo Aug 23 -Sep 22

This week, some recognition comes your way. Home repairs could be on the cards, plans might go awry because something in your home needs immediate attention. You’ve impressed the right people & will receive praise for a job well done.

sep 23 - oct 22

This week, you’re in manifesting mode. Early in the week there could be a miscommunication that requires you to explain yourself. Double check your texts & emails & make sure you’ve hung up before you make any unfiltered remarks.

Capricorn Dec 22 - Jan 19

This week, you’re getting in the flow. You could need to make some changes to get the quality rest you need. Maybe invest in some black out blinds, an earlier bedtime or no devices in your room. Rest will happen when you make a change.

Scorpio oct 23 - nov 21

This week, power & opportunity are yours for the taking. You might not be able to quite find what you’re looking for. Take it as a sign that this isn’t where you should be headed, don’t settle. You’ll get exactly what you want, if you’re patient.

Aquarius Jan 20 - Feb 18

This week, you’re following the beat of your own drum. Your tech could be on the fritz, you might need to get something repaired or replaced. Later in the week freedom calls, you might decide which bridge to burn, don’t forget the marshmallows.

Sagittarius nov 22 - dec 21

This week, you have an opportunity to work as a team. All eyes could be on you this week, embrace your fear & you’ll have a great time. There’s a good chance you’ll encounter someone that wants to help, teamwork makes the dream work.

Pisces

Feb 19 - Mar 20

This week, obtacles are melting before your very eyes. Early in the week be cautious of your words, remember there’s two sides to every story. Later in the week your intuition will help you to see the world from someone elses perspective.

FUNERAL NOTICE

TORRISI, Rosaria

Late of Mareeba. Passed away peacefully surrounded by family on the 22nd of November, 2022.

Much loved Wife of Sebastiano (dec). Cherished Mother and Mother-in-Law of Josie (dec) & Joe Fichera, John & Gina Torrisi, Connie & Joe Salomone, and Joe & Trina Torrisi. Adored Grandmother of Lenny, Sebi, Gerry, Carolyn, Sebi, Rosalyn, Nicola, Daniel, Victor, Joshua & Nathan & their families. Beloved Great Grandmother, Sister, Sister-in-Law, and Aunty.

Relatives and friends of Rosaria are respectfully invited to attend her funeral which is appointed to move from St. Thomas Catholic Church, 57 Constance Street, Mareeba on Thursday 1st December, 2022 after a service commencing at 10:00am for interment in the Mareeba Cemetery.

Guilfoyle Funeral Services

Chapels, Crematorium & Memorial Gardens Atherton: 4091 2147 Mareeba: 4092 1013

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

OFFICE RECEPTION ADMINISTRATION

ABOUT US: Our accounting firm, Millar Teitzel, helps people with their taxes, business and financial decisions. You will build a network of contacts who will appreciate your assistance. Ours is a busy environment and no two days are the same. You will need to multi-task and direct the flow of people, queries and information. We have an experienced team to help you learn.

TASK & RESPONSIBILITIES: You will be the first point of contact for our friendly accounting practice, liaising between our clients and staff.

Daily office procedures include reception, phone calls, mail, receipting, banking, filing, office supplies, accessing various software for saving reports.

QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE: Must be computer literate. Training on the job is provided for various office applications relevant to a progressive accounting firm. Good written and oral communication skills are essential.

BENEFITS OF WORKING WITH US: Opportunity for career development; work in a busy and friendly environment; build your knowledge and confidence in dealing with clients, businesses, financial advisors, banks and solicitors.

CONTACT US: Email - admin@millarteitzel.com.au Phone - 4092 8066

NURSERYHAND

Hardworking energetic persons required for a busy Production Nursery in Mareeba.

We are offering a PPT Position, 34 - 38 hours per week. This position requires a physically fit person to collect orders. Heavy lifting, bending, weeding, pruning and other repetitive work tasks. Must be able to follow instructions and be prepared to work outside. Experience is preferred but not essential. You will need the ability to follow written orders; an eye for detail; and good time management.

If you like a physical challenge this is the job for you. Flourish Plants is a fast-paced work environment with a great team of happy people working hard to meet daily deadlines. If you are only available for a short time, please do not apply. We are seeking a team member with the view of permanent work. Please contact Diana on (07) 4092 7122 or Email: info@flourishplants.com.au with Résumé and Cover Letter.

COMMENCING 2023

• Primary Teacher Aide (Part-Time, 22.5hrs)

• Secondary Teacher Aide (Part-Time, 13.3hrs)

• Secondary Science Teacher

Jubilee Christian College provides high quality P-12 education programs to students On-campus in Atherton and across Queensland, via Distance Education. Staff at JCC are caring and dedicated people who value relationships, insist on high standards and are supportive of the Aims and Ethos of a Christian School. To find out more about these exciting opportunities visit: www.jubileecc.qld.edu.au/working-with-jubilee Please forward all applications to: principal@jubileecc.qld.edu.au

Applications are to include a covering letter, a current CV, with 2 referees.

Jubilee Christian College is an equal opportunity employer and a Child Safe organisation.

Expressions of Interest

Director, Indigenous Identified (male) –Wet Tropics Management Authority Board

Queensland’s Wet Tropics World Heritage Area is home to the world’s oldest continuously surviving tropical rainforest, with a continuing connection to one of the world’s oldest cultures. Are you passionate about protecting the rainforest for future generations? Are you interested in contributing to strengthening cultural partnerships? Have you ever considered a board Director role?

The Australian Government and the Queensland Government are seeking a suitably skilled person to fill the important role of Director, Indigenous Identified (male) on the Wet Tropics Management Authority Board of Directors. The candidate must be an Aboriginal person (male) particularly concerned with the land in the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area.

Board Directors have a range of important roles including:

• overseeing the functions of the Authority as outlined in the Wet Tropics World Heritage Protection and Management Act 1993

• setting the objectives, strategic direction and policies for the Authority; and ensuring the Authority performs its functions in a proper, effective and efficient way

• promoting the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area locally, regionally, nationally and internationally and involving the community in the management of the Area

• having regard to the tradition of Aboriginal Peoples particularly concerned with land in the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area.

The Wet Tropics Management Authority is committed to building an inclusive culture that respects and promotes human rights and diversity.

This position is one of two Board positions that are reserved for Aboriginal Directors. As per advice from Rainforest Aboriginal representatives groups, the recruitment is seeking a Rainforest Aboriginal person (male) or, if none available, an Aboriginal person (male) otherwise particularly concerned with the land in the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area.

To learn more about the Wet Tropics Management Authority, its Board of Directors and how to apply for Director positions, visit https://www.wettropics.gov.au/board-vacancies

To express interest in the Director position, email your application and resume to wettropics@wtma.qld.gov.au by COB 14 December 2022

For further information, please contact Tim Wong on 07 4241 0500.

Fitter & Boilermaker Tradespersons

SPRINGMOUNT

M7350

SPECIAL MEETING OF MAREEBA SHIRE COUNCIL

A Special Meeting of Mareeba Shire Council will be held on Wednesday, 30 November 2022, commencing 10am at 65 Rankin Street, Mareeba. The matters to be brought to the meeting are:

1) T-MSC2022-13 Lease and Operation of Aquatic Facilities and Caravan Park

2) Amendment to Lease - Kuranda Post Office - Part of Lot 412 SP103859

Media and members of the public are welcome to attend.

For further information, please phone Council on 1300 308 461 or visit Council’s website.

Peter Franks Chief Executive Officer PO Box 154, MAREEBA QLD 4880

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

Date: Sunday 4th December, 2022

Venue: Mareeba Tennis Club Time: 3.00pm

Nomination forms available at the Club and to be in by 2nd December.

Notice is hereby given of the Annual General Meeting of MAREEBA LEAGUES CLUB INC. to be held on Thursday, 15th December, 2022 in the Club’s Function Room commencing with Light Refreshments at 5.00pm and the Meeting at 5.30pm.

Order of Business:

1. To confirm the minutes of the previous Annual General Meeting

2. To receive and adopt the Annual Report of the Committee 3. To receive and adopt the audited Annual Financial Statements 4. To elect the Committee 5. To transact any business of which due notice has been given.

Nominations for all Committee positions are Open. Forms may be obtained from the Club’s Offi ce weekdays from 10am to 5pm. The closing date for nominations is 5pm, Thursday, 1st December 2022.

ADDRESSED

PUBLIC NOTICE

The Express Christmas Vouchers Giveaway will commence on Monday, 21 November, 2022 and ends at 12 noon on Monday, 12 December, 2022.

The competition is open to all shoppers who purchase products and services from participating outlets. Shoppers are asked to provide their name, address and phone number on the entry forms provided. Only official entry forms provided by the The Express will be accepted as entries.

By entering the competition you are agreeing to allow The Express to publish your name and use any photos which will be taken upon notification of being a winner. The official draw will take place at The Express office at 186 Byrnes Street, Mareeba at 12 Noon on Tuesday, 13 December, 2022

The four winners will each receive 10 fifty dollar ($50) vouchers which are to be spent with the participating businesses only. Vouchers are not redeemable for cash and are not transferable. All vouchers must be used by February, 2023 (unless otherwise stated). Any vouchers not redeemed by this time will expire and will not be honoured.

Winners will be notified by phone and published in The Express on Wednesday, 21 December, 2022. Judge’s decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into.

Further details can be obtained by calling The Express office on 4092 3464 during office hours.

Equine community welcomes new arena

THE Meraki Equestrian Centre’s state-of-the-art new indoor arena has been officially opened, allowing equine lovers from across the region to learn, train and exercise their be loved stallions.

The 30 metre by 80 metre shed is split into two separate sections, with a larger 20 by 60 arena for experienced equestrians to utilise and a smaller 20 by 30 metre arena designed for younger learners and new horses.

Mareeba Shire Council approved the construction of the shed in August this year and the Meraki team were ecstatic to bring the horse community together at the facility.

The arena is a long-time dream for owner and chief instructor Yvonne van Reeuwijk who has been develop ing her property into a horse-lovers haven since she purchased it last year.

“I feel emotional. This place is more than a dream come true and going step by step to make it come to life has been incredible and I am

very grateful for where I am today,” she said.

“The most important thing is that I built this place with a purpose for everyone to come and use.

“I really want the people of the Tablelands and surroundings to know that they can come and use this facil ity and ride it whenever they want.”

Ms van Reeuwijk’s assistant Jayde Hearne spent several months helping prepare the official opening of the arena and can’t wait to make a “state ment to the equine community”.

“This centre has been here for al most a year, so this is a massive state ment for us,” she said.

“It is a lot nicer up here than it is in Cairns where it is just too hot and by providing this indoor arena means we can now ride all throughout the day and at night-time as well.”

To utilise the new arena, contact Meraki Equestrian Centre through merakiequestrian.com.au

Siblings rep region

SIBLINGS Cooper and Sienna O’Brien are making their names known in the peninsula world after being selected to represent the region in golf and cricket.

12-year-old Cooper has been se lected as a reserve for the 13-18 years boys in the Queensland School’s State Titles for golf whilst his sister, 10-year-old Sienna will be repre senting the region in the 10-12 girls’ competition in May next year.

Both golfers play through the Atherton Golf Club, training as many afternoons of the week as possible to prepare for the big event.

Sienna is currently coming back from a broken arm, but is putting in her all to prepare for the big event.

This is her second year in a row being picked for this competition and despite a six month hiatus in recov ery, she is ready to rumble and show “the boys” who’s boss.

“I am making sure that when I am playing sports, I am wearing a guard and making sure I am not pushing it when my arm starts to hurt,” she said.

“It feels really good to represent our region and I am very very ex cited.

“My goal is to be better than the other team and to beat the boys.”

Cooper will also be represent ing the region in cricket in the com

ing weeks after being selected for a Cricket Far North representative team.

Playing and training with Ather ton Cricket Club, Cooper knows the game like the back of his hand and is keen to play with some of the best cricketers in his age group in Mac kay.

“I am training three times a week, hitting balls in the nets, bowling lots and eating well to get ready for the game,” he said.

“I am really excited, and I am just going to give it my all and try my ab solute hardest.

“My goal (in both cricket and golf) is to smash a few personal and state records.”

Father Doug O’Brien is beyond proud to see his children smash their goals and experience what represent ative sport is all about.

“I am very proud of them and what they do,” he said.

“We are so grateful for all the people who come into (the family business) Mareeba News and donate to our 100 boards when we go away and for the people who have given them encouragement and their old golf balls.

“The kids couldn’t have done it without the support of the commu nity.”

Walker Road strangles seconds

The notorious pitch at Walker Road once again played its tricks on visitors and home team alike as both teams couldn’t post a score over 100.

After winning the toss Mareeba elected to bat first but could never really find their feet as Mulgrave tore through the line-up.

Many of the Mareeba batsman fell after seeing out just one over until Brandon Green came in at five and attempted to bail out the sinking ship before he too was clamed for 21 off 49.

A smattering of low scores saw Mareeba get bowled out for just 93 runs in the 32nd over.

Mulgrave did not fare any better as the Mareeba bowlers took full advantage of the pitch including Green who dug in to bowl eight overs, claiming four wickets for just six runs and three maidens.

Rowan Foxwell took two while opening bowler Ty son Brown toiled away for one.

While it was a good effort from Mareeba Mulgrave managed to catch up to and then pass their score in the 33rd over with just two wickets remaining.

Mareeba will now travel down the hill again to face Norths this Sunday in the last game of the year before the Christmas break, cricket will pick up again in the new year.

MAREEBA second grade is struggling to find their feet after they suffered another loss against Mulgrave at Walker Road on Sunday, sinking them to eighth place on the ladder.

The Meraki Equestrian Centre’s state-of-the-art new arena has been officially opened and owner Yvonne van Reeuwijk, her assistant Jayde Hearne and stallion Mr Grey are excited for the community to see.

Cooper and Sienna O’Brien will be repping the region in golf and cricket over the next few months.

Fast Train fast tracked to cup race

LOCAL horse trainer Janel Ryan will have her second shot at winning the highly reputed Coun try Cups Challenge this Saturday after her horse Fast Train qualified for the $200,000 race earlier in the year.

This is only the second time Ryan has ever had a horse qualify for the Country Cups Challenge. She had a horse compete in last year’s race, but it did not manage a place.

Fast Train qualified for the Country Cups Chal lenge when he won the Atherton Cup in Septem ber and has been working up to the race since he earned a spot.

Fast Train will be travelling down with Leanne

Buckingham and staying on a rural property just outside of Brisbane before the challenge.

Veteran jockey and long-time partner to Fast Train Chris Whiteley will be the one to race on the day for a chance at the $200,000 prize.

The connections of Fast Train will also be travelling down to Brisbane to watch the race and hopefully experience the win first-hand.

“Fast Train is a better horse than the one that competed last year, so I expect him to be in the finish,” Ryan said.

“He has got a very good jockey who has rid den him all the way through and he drew a good barrier.”

Atherton break drought

ATHERTON first grade played host to defending pre miers Mulgrave on Saturday at Loder Park, taking home the victory amidst the threat of heavy rain.

The visitors won the toss and with storms looming, sent Atherton into bat and with just three overs bowled and Atherton at 1/8, the heavens opened, reducing the game to 25 overs per side.

Atherton’s top order strug gled for runs until number four Tommy Boorman con tinued with his fine form and scored 65 from 53 balls.

Caleb Constant 52 (45) joined Boorman at the crease and together they put on a 94 run partnership from 62 balls to post a defendable score of 8/153 after 25 overs.

Atherton’s opening bowler Matt Coleman (1/17) picked up the first Mulgrave wicket in the first over of the in nings, however with several missed opportunities in the field, Mulgrave appeared to be cruising at 1/61 after 10 overs.

Spin seemed to be the an swer with Dan Parnell (1/23) snaring the important wicket of Matt Wilkins and fellow spinners Mason Blaney (2/17) and Boorman (1/30) keeping the middle order quiet.

With Mulgrave requiring 53 runs for victory from the last five overs, veteran bowler and A grade coach Shane Leg ge took his turn, it had been 18 years since Legge had last played an A grade match.

With the visitors requir ing 19 runs for victory, Legge

held his nerve and bowled the final over of the game, restricting Mulgrave to a final score of 9/142.

After the weekend win Atherton is now tied with Mulgrave in fourth and fifth place respectively on 19 points while Rovers and Bar ron are tied for second and third on 23 points, Norths leads the ladder on 33 points.

Atherton will now travel to Cairns’ Griffiths Park this Saturday to take on Rovers.

Trainer Janel Ryan and track work rider Leanne Buckingham with Fast Train are ready for the Country Cups Challenge this weekend.

Atherton batsman Caleb Constant played all the shots during his 52 run stand for Atherton on Saturday against Mulgrave.