The Express Newspaper 8th April 2020

Wednesday, April 8, 2020

ExprEss kids A fun way to keep the kids entertained

Salt Dough Rainbow Easter

while at home

Colouring in Competition

pens, break out the colouring pencils, cheer! Keep the kids occupied, perfect, snap a photo and send it It’s time to spread a bit of Easter Once looking colourful and picture a paint or glitter and get them colouring. email admin@theexpressnewspaper.com.au. We will be picking or be delivered to the winner. to us either via a Facebook message will arrange for an Easter Gift to winner on Good Friday, April 10 and

to keep the kids occupied Looking for some fun, fresh ideas Now, more importantly than at home these school holidays? are all playing our part and ever, it is so important that we trips as specified by the staying home except for essential Here is a fun and Queensland and Federal Governments.from home with minido simple art and craft project you can mal supplies.

Ingredients 1 cup salt 2 cups of flour ¾ cup of water

Method

together.

1. In a large bowl mix salt and flour in. Mix well until it forms a 2. Gradually add the water and stir doughy consistency. and knead with your hands 3. Turn the dough onto the bench until smooth and combined. salt dough, we like the idea 4. Make your creations using the length sausages and placof rolling your dough into 7 different ing them in the shape of a rainbow. rainbow into the oven to 5. Place the salt dough creations/ of time needed to bake harden at 180 degrees C. The amount of the salt dough creation depends on the size and thickness put back in for another hour – approx. 1-2 hours, if still doughy until hard. to town and decorate with 6. Once cooled the kids can go feeling brave, GLITTER! acrylic paints, glue and if you are a reminder the colours are: Note: if you are doing the rainbow indigo and violet. red, orange, yellow, green, blue,

Have fun and we hope this simple recipe keeps the kids busy for a few hours.

We would love to see all the creations, email a photo to admin@thexpressnewsFacebook paper.com.au or share them to and tag The Express Newspaper.

Around the home scavenger hunt  1 piece of rubbish (not from the bin)  2 different coloured clothes pegs  a twig bigger than your big finger  a 50 cent coin  a shopping receipt  a business card  one square of toilet paper

 a key  a USB stick  make a paper airplane  draw a self portrait  a matching pair of thongs  a piece of string/wool the length of your arm

 a flower or leaf  an old toy  a blue piece of clothing  a book  a red or pink pencil or crayon  a salt or pepper shaker  a plastic cup

around your home!!!!

See how many of the above you can collect

NEW KIDS PAGE

FUN FOR THE KIDS ON PG16

OPEN: Mareeba Kids Campus team members Tracy Bull, Sue Powell, Kylie Meehan and Fiona Costas.

LIFELINE FOR CENTRES AND FAMILIES

The Prime Minister has thrown a lifeline to childcare centres and families with the announcement of free childcare for all working Australian parents during the coronavirus crisis  FULL STORY PG3

.

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Local boost to Coles Mareeba team

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The team...

MANAGING EDITOR Carl Portella

JOURNALIST Phil Brandel

ADVERTISING MANAGER Natasha Srhoj

CADET JOURNALIST Rhys Thomas

ADMIN / ONLINE PRODUCER Natasha Burton

The Express is published by Portasea Pty Ltd, 141 Constance St Mareeba QLD 4880. ACN: 141 250 213 CIRCULATION 9,000 Printed by Townsville print centre 623-645 Flinders St Townsville QLD 4810

EMPLOYMENT BOOST: Coles Mareeba recently employed 27 new team members after a recruitment drive to help in the stores smooth running.

COLES Mareeba recently hired 27 new local staff to help with the smooth running of the supermarket during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The four week long recruitment drive saw 27 locals em-

ployed by Coles Mareeba to help with stocking shelves, attending registers, night stocking and other responsibilities.

The increase in the number and intensity of customers coming into Coles saw the

need for new crew members to be hired and trained to assist in the smooth running of the supermarket giant.

Mareeba Coles Store Manager Andrew Mcintosh is excited to see more staff in Coles

Continuing our commitment to you AS we go into our second week of working from home The Express is even more committed in bringing you the very latest information, both local and national.

The message remains the same “Stay Home” if there is no need for you to be out.

If you’re an elderly person or someone who has an underlying condition call someone to help or call the help line 1800 432 584.

This of course does not mean that you can’t go to support the businesses that are able to trade. All the necessary precautions will still need to be

adhered to by both you and the business you are visiting.

The Express continues to bring you the latest news and direction from both state and federal governments via our website and social media platforms.

Our Free news coverage continues across our platforms with live video feeds from ABC Far North, our own journalists on the ground locally, a huge thank you to all of our readers and supporters on keeping us informed with what is happening locally.

We will continue to print The Express to highlight the

magnificent efforts individuals and organisations are doing to make life a little easier for those less fortunate in our community.

In keeping with extraordinary efforts, the addition of a special page dedicated to the kids who are at home is featured on Page 16. This is thanks to the dedication of Natasha Srhoj and Natasha Burton.

Again “Stay Safe” and look out for your neighbour but above all be vigilant regarding your personal health and wellbeing. We also encourage you to support local business within our towns.

to keep the supermarket running and providing to everyone's needs.

“In every department new team members have been introduced to the business,” he said.

“It’s still a challenging time

but the more hands we can get the quicker stock is going to get to the shelves.

“It’s good for the community for us to try and recover as quickly as possible.”

Join the Care Army WONDERING how you can help during Coronavirus crisis?

The Queensland Government is calling on Queenslanders to do what Queenslanders do best – look out for each other.

Queensland wants to enlist a Care Army to protect up to one million Queensland seniors during COVID-19.

During the floods, QLD had the mud army – an army of volunteers helping Queenslanders get back on their feet.

The Care Army is about bringing Queenslanders together to lend a hand to seniors and people most at-risk during this

pandemic.

For more information and if you want to become a Care Army volunteer register at www.qld.gov.au/community/ support-for-carers/care-army Queensland needs you!

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Childcare help a relief for all THIS week childcare is set to become free to working parents under new subsidies announced by the Federal Government to help keep parents working and childcare centres operating during the COVID-19 crisis.

Federal Education Minister, Dan Tehan said the childcare sector would be overhauled to provide free childcare for working parents.

“Can I say to all parents – we want to ensure your childcare centre will remain open so that where you normally take your child to get cared for, that will be there for you so you are not looking to have to go to a new centre.”

Prime Minister Scott Morrison announced last Thursday that childcare will be free for parents who need it.

He said the Government will provide support to 13,000 childcare centres across the country to ensure they can remain open.

Childcare services across the county have been saying they are “stuck between a rock and a hard place” as they try to stay open to help essential workers doing their job while at the same time children were being removed from the centres in droves.

General Manager of Mareeba Kids Campus, Jeanette Sturiale said their business was struggling.

“We are surviving, I wouldn't say we are flourishing, we are surviving… just,” she said.

“We have had a significant amount of parents pull their children out, for example in our

Kindergarten centre we had 44 kids per day, now we are down to 6 kids per day. After school care is also suffering.”

Jeanette said that parents are pulling their children from childcare for several reasons.

“Before the restaurant and cafes closed down we had people pulling their kids out because they were frightened about the virus,” she said “Once people started losing their jobs, we took a bigger hit with more kids being pulled from care. Parents can't afford

had their hours reduced, they have to keep some money coming in.”

It’s not only the centre’s clients who have had their hours cut.

“Most of our staff had their hours reduced as well, hopefully, some of these government measures can help us increase the hours of our staff,” “We want to survive this and come out of the other side and we want to be here for the parents and carers of children on the Tablelands.”

“We have gone down by 50%, so this is wonderful news for parents who may have been stressed about childcare costs” – Connie Duncan childcare if they're not working.”

Jeanette believes the government's new announcements are going to help working families.

“The parents who are still dropping their kids off here, are the parents who are still working. They need to drop their kids off and work because they've

Connie Duncan of First Steps Early Childhood Learning Centre in Atherton said that the new childcare subsidies will give their business and parents more certainty.

“We have gone down by 50%, so this is wonderful news for parents who may have been stressed about childcare costs,”

she said.

“We have tried a few things to help parents. We dropped our rate right down to help those parents keep their kids enrolled.

“If we are eligible for the Jobkeeper payment and the new childcare subsidies from the government we should be able to keep our doors open.

“We haven't had to stand down any of our staff and I am determined not too.”

Scott Morrison said that childcare and early childhood care was crucial for parents who relied on it so they could continue working.

“Critical areas are not just the obvious ones – it is not just the doctors or the nurses who are at the hospitals, it is the cleaners at the hospitals as well.

“It is the people driving trucks to get food out to supermarkets and ensure the supplies continue.

“If you have a job in this economy then that is an essential job, in my view, in terms of the running of the economy.”

The PM said.

“It’s important that all of those parents who have children, that they get access to childcare and those facilities will be there for them in the many months ahead.”

"The old system was drafted for a pre-pandemic time," he said.  TALK TO US: Let us know how this news will help you and your family during COVID? Email admin@theexpressnewspaper.com.au

COVID-19 UPDATE AS of Monday, April 6 at print deadline Queensland has 9 new confirmed cases of coronavirus (COVID-19) raising the state total to 907.

With 30 confirmed cases to date within the Cairns and Hinterland Hospital and Health Service (CHHHS).

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said there was a long way to go but the fact that only nine new cases had been confirmed was good news.

“It goes to show that all of the measures that we’ve been putting in place over the last weeks are having an impact, and we need to make sure that we continue,” Ms Palaszczuk said.

“Sadly though, a fifth Queenslander has died, reminding us again of the seriousness.”

“On the other hand, it’s disappointing that people have been crowding at open air markets.

“I want to keep fresh food markets open. It is not a chance for an outing, you should only be going to purchase fresh produce, and if you don’t adhere to social distancing, then we will have no choice but to shut those markets.

“I don’t want to do that, so everyone needs to do the right thing, and I am giving my last warning in relation to that.”

The total number of confirmed cases Australia wide was 5693 at print deadline, with 636 fully recovered.

Queensland Health has also announced that visitors to CHHHS facilities are to be restricted, until further notice as well. For more information visit www.health. qld.gov.au Cairns and Hinterland Hospital and Health Service facilities include – Atherton Hospital, Babinda Multipurpose Health Centre, Cairns Hospital, Chillagoe Hospital, Croydon Primary Health Care Clinic, Cow Bay Primary Health Clinic, Dimbulah Hospital, Forsayth Hospital, Georgetown Hospital, Gordonvale Hospital, Herberton Hospital, Innisfail Hospital, Lotus Glen Health Service, Malanda Primary Health Centre, Mareeba Hospital, Millaa Millaa Primary Health Centre, Mossman Multi Purpose Health Service, Mount Garnet OPD, Ravenshoe Primary Health Care Centre and Tully Hospital.

Everyone can play their part to protect themselves and the more vulnerable in our community. Please follow the recommended advice for social distancing, public gatherings and general wellbeing.

Critically, make sure you are practicing good hygiene and staying home, especially if you’re sick. Washing your hands properly and often is the gold standard of health advice that can help prevent viruses from entering your body.

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mbaguilfoyle@bigpond.com The Express, Wednesday, April 8, 2020 PAGE 3

Small business support during COVID THANKS to COVID-19 most small businesses are doing it tough. Whether it’s letting staff go, understanding new government restrictions or where to go for help, the amount of information that is currently being published is sometimes uncompressible.

If you’re a small business owner it can be hard to figure out what help you can get and where to go for help. We have tried to gather as much information as possible so that you don't have to.

JobKeeper Payment for employers and employees Under the JobKeeper Payment, businesses impacted by the coronavirus will be able to access a subsidy from the Government to continue paying their employees. Affected employers will be able to claim a fortnightly payment of $1,500 per eligible employee from 30 March 2020, for a maximum period of 6 months.

Employers will be eligible for the subsidy if: their business has a turnover of less than $1 billion and their turnover has fallen by more than 30 per cent (of at least a month); or their business has a turnover of $1 billion or more and their turnover has fallen by more than 50 per cent (of at least a month); and the business is not subject to the Major Bank Levy.

Eligible employees are employees who: are currently employed by the eligible employer (including those stood down or re-hired), were employed by the employer at 1 March 2020, are full-time, part-time, or longterm casuals (a casual employed on a regular basis for longer than 12 months as at March 1, 2020), are at least 16 years of age, are an Australian citizen, the holder of a permanent visa, a Protected Special Category Visa Holder, a non-protected Special Category Visa Holder who has been residing continually in Australia for 10 years or more, or a Special Category (Subclass 444) Visa Holder, are not in receipt of a JobKeeper Payment from another employer.

If your employees receive the JobKeeper Payment, this may affect their eligibility for payments from Services Australia as they must report their JobKeeper Payment as income.

For more information on Jobkeeper visit www.ato.gov. au/general/gen/JobKeeper-payment/

Boosting cash flow for employers The Government is providing up to $100,000 to eligible small and medium-sized businesses, and not for-profits (NFPs) that employ people, with a minimum

payment of $20,000. These payments will help businesses and NFPs with their cash flow so they can keep operating, pay their rent, electricity and other bills and retain staff.

Small and medium-sized business entities with aggregated annual turnover under $50 million and that employ workers are eligible. NFPs, including charities, with aggregated annual turnover under $50 million and that employ workers will now also be eligible.

For more information visit www.ato.gov.au/Business/Business-activity-statements-(BAS)/ In-detail/Boosting-cash-flowfor-employers/ Increasing the instant asset write-off From March 12, 2020 until 30 June 2020, the instant asset write-off threshold is $150,000 (up from $30,000).

Eligibility range covers businesses with an aggregated turnover of less than $500 million (up from $50 million).

Businesses with a turnover of $500 million or more are not eligible to use instant asset writeoff.

From 1 July 2020, the instant asset write-off will only be available for small businesses with a turnover of less than $10 million and the threshold will be $1,000.

Visit www.ato.gov.au/Business/Depreciation-and-capital-expenses-and-allowances/ Simpler-depreciation-for-smallbusiness/Instant-asset-write-off/ Accelerated depreciation Measures introduced in March 2020 provide an incentive to businesses with aggregated turnover of less than $500 million for the 2019–20 and 2020–21 income years, to deduct the cost of depreciating assets at an accelerated rate.

For each new asset, the accelerated depreciation deduction applies in the income year that the asset is first used or installed ready for use for a taxable purpose. The usual depreciating asset arrangements apply in the subsequent income years that the asset is held.

Eligibility – to be eligible to apply the accelerated rate of deduction, the depreciating asset must: be new and not previously held by another entity (other than as trading stock), not be an asset to which an entity has applied depreciation deductions or the instant asset write-off rules, be first held on or after March 12, 2020, first used or first installed ready for use for a taxable purpose on or after 12 March 2020 until 30 June 2021.

Under the measures, differ-

ent rules apply depending on whether or not an entity is using the simplified rules for capital allowances for small businesses More information is available at www.ato.gov.au/Business/Depreciation-and-capital-expenses-and-allowances/ Backing-business-investment--accelerated-depreciation/ Temporary relief for financially distressed businesses The economic impacts of the Coronavirus and health measures to prevent its spread could see many otherwise profitable and viable businesses temporarily face financial distress.

The Government is temporarily increasing the threshold at which creditors can issue a statutory demand on a company and the time companies have to respond to statutory demands they receive. The package also includes temporary relief for directors from any personal liability for trading while insolvent, and providing temporary flexibility in the Corporations Act 2001 to provide temporary and targeted relief from provisions of the Act to deal with unforeseen events that arise as a result of the Coronavirus health crisis.

Visit treasury.gov.au/coronavirus

Supporting apprentices and trainees The Government is supporting small business to retain their apprentices and trainees.

Eligible employers can apply for a wage subsidy of 50 per cent of the apprentice’s or trainee’s wage for 9 months from January 1, 2020 to September 30, 2020. Where a small business is not able to retain an apprentice, the subsidy will be available to a new employer that employs that apprentice.

Employers will be reimbursed up to a maximum of $21,000 per eligible apprentice or trainee ($7,000 per quarter).

Support will also be provided to the National Apprentice Employment Network, the peak national body representing Group Training Organisations, to coordinate the re-employment of displaced apprentices and trainees throughout their network of host employers across Australia.

Visit treasury.gov.au/policytopics/business-and-industry/ coronavirus-business-liaisonunit This is just short overview of the support available to businesses during the coronavirus crisis. Always speak to a professional who will be able to assist you during this time.

Residents reminded to 'think before you flush'

COUNCIL is reminding residents to think before they flush.

Mareeba Shire Council are seeing large amounts of solid material is being flushed, causing blockages in council’s sewers, pump stations and intakes to wastewater treatment plants.

A council spokesperson said “flushing solid materials such as wet wipes, facial tissues, cotton buds, sanitary items and food scraps can cause a blockage in the sewer system.

“A blockage in the sewer system can then cause an over-

flow in your home, back yard and street,” he said.

“This is a major health risk to you as a resident and the community at large.

“Council is committed to ensuring essential services such as water, wastewater and waste

are not compromised amid the coronavirus outbreak, however, we need everyone to be mindful of what they are putting down their drains and toilets.

“Not only is it time-consuming and costly for council, but it can be very costly for residents

who have to hire services of a plumber to deal with blockages or overflow,” the council spokesperson said.

Help keep the wastewater system working well. Please bag and dispose of these items in a domestic bin – all types

of wet wipes, including those labelled ‘flushable’, facial tissues, paper napkins or hand towels, nappies, sanitary items, condoms, rags, cotton buds, dental floss, cigarette butts, fats and oils, food scraps, needles and medications.

Celebrate Easter at home

Volunteers Sought - Interested persons please visit:

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PAGE 4 The Express, Wednesday, April 8, 2020

THIS Easter will be like no other. With the annual holiday usually a time for families to pack the car and head away for the break, this year families will have to find ways to entertain themselves at home.

One thing the coronavirus can't cancel is the Easter Bunny.

So while Easter will be different this year, let's look at some ways to celebrate at home.

Create an epic egg hunt in the back yard. We are lucky to live where we do and we all have back yards that can be put to good use. A little sunshine to start the day is good for all, so fill the yard with eggs and have some fun.

Missing your family? why not schedule a virtual get to-

gether. There are endless apps like Facetime, Zoom and Google Hangouts, just to name a few – it’s never been easier to feel close to loved ones.

Get crafty and make your own Easter eggs. Entertain the kids in the days leading up to Easter by dyeing eggs.

Spend time in the kitchen and make all the Easter favourites. Easter lunch is always special and now you have heaps of time at home to create a feast the whole family will love.

While your at home, why not decorate the house. We go all out at Christmas, so why don't we make Easter just as decorative.

Play some games. Be creative and think of fun games to

play at home like an egg and spoon race and pin the tail on the bunny.

Watch an Easter movie. Get comfy on the couch and watch Easter favourites.

What about a new tradition?

Being at home gives us the perfect opportunity to create a new family Easter tradition that could carry on for decades to come.

Many celebrate Easter with special church services. While you may not be able to be there in person, check with your local church to see if virtual services are being offered.

Rather than focusing on how different this year is, let's focus on how we can make it extra special for all in our homes.

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New look MSC

WITH more than 76 per cent of the vote counted, it looks as if at least five out of six sitting in the new Mareeba Shire Council (MSC) has been decided.

A few familiar faces are back with all three running incumbents voted back in and with the three seats left vacant, that means this year there will be an even spread between new and old experience.

Long time local and incumbent councillor Mary Graham garnered 12.39% which made her the most popular vote within the MSC, something she puts down to her long tireless work for the community.

“It’s very humbling because when you put your hand up you hope for the best,” she said.

“I never thought I would come out on top and I would like to thank all the people who put their trust in me and I will work hard for them.”

Mary puts her popularity down to longevity and approachability.

“I've been in the area a long time, I’m very approachable and people can come chat to me anytime about their issues and problems and I pride myself on following through with issues facing locals.”

Coming a close second to Mrs Graham with 12.19% of the vote was first-time runner Locky Bensted who said “It’s a bit surreal to be able to come in with a high voter percentage as a brand new candidate and this means a great deal to me. It means the community has backed me, which means a lot,” he said.

Mr Benstead believes he got such a high percentage due to

NEW MAYOR: Angela Toppin will lead the Mareeba Shire through these uncertain times ahead.

announcing his intention to run many months ago.

“I didn’t announce a month ago, I have been campaigning for our community for the past 15 years,” he said.

Mr Bensted believes that one of the reasons for his popularity was his age.

“Being 34 and not being afraid to have a crack at something helped, younger people need to have a representative at the table.”

Incumbent Councillor Lenore Wyatt is also back for another term with all her fellow councillors claiming that the stability of the previous MSC was something that residents have been very happy with.

“People were also happy with how we are travelling financially and now we are hop-

ing to keep that moving forward,” she said.

When council is sworn on April 15, Mrs Wyatt says COVID-19 will definitely be on the agenda.

“We will have to have a look at and discuss things like rate deferrals or freezes.”

Councillor Kevin Davies is also back for another term.

Another new face at the big table will be Danny Bird who was voted in with 8.98% of the vote.

Although this is Danny's first time as a councillor for the MSC he was a former councillor at the Flinders Shire Council in Hughenden before moving to Mareeba.

“I moved here about 12 years ago and I think there are things that need addressing and I would

rather be pro-active and address them,” he said.

Danny has mixed feelings about being voted in.

“It’s a feeling of privilege and gratification and I would like to thank everyone that supported me and helped me.”

Danny also believes that COVID-19 should be top of the council agenda.

“We need to get to work as to how we can help the community in general and business cope and recover from the COVID-19 crisis so that they are all still here when we come out of this.”

The final seat looks to be taken by Mario Mlikota. But with Ann Bell trailing by 324 votes, it is close.

As for the Mayoral position, even a week after the election took place Angela Toppin has not as yet claimed victory.

Angela Toppin told The Express in a written statement.

“Figures have consistently shown I am leading Nipper, but this election has been so unusual that I would prefer to wait until matters are finalised and ECQ have made declarations.

It’s been challenging as usually announcements are made within days of polling booths closing.”

As of Monday, April 6, the ECQ website showed that 76.63% had been counted, Angela Toppin had 5664 votes, Nipper Brown had 5023 votes.

statement last week saying.

“I have just contacted Mr Marti to wish him well for his term as Mayor,” she wrote.

“Although the count hasn’t been declared formally by the Electoral Commission of Queensland, I think it is right that at this point I concede and allow the machinations to commence to ensure our Local Government can be up and running

as soon as practicable.”

Joining Rod Marti as part of the new TRC is the following councillors.

Kevin Cardew is the new councillor for Division 1, Division 2 will see Annette Haydon returning, while Division 3 also sees Dave Bilney returning. Division 4 was to close to call between David Clifton and Samantha Banks with 39.89%

and 39.32% respectively and 78.24% counted. Peter Hodge will take up the councillor position in Division 5 and Division 6 was won by Bernie Wilce.  The information and figures in this story were correct as of print deadline on Monday, April 6, 2020. For the latest information visit www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

Good news for library book lovers MAREEBA Shire Council will be introducing a service to allow users to borrow their favourite books while the branches are closed to the public due to government restrictions amid the coronavirus event.

A council spokesperson said Council identified that many book lovers within the community who are now required to stay at home do not have access to online resources. "The library plays an important service to the community, and many users rely on being able to borrow books, DVD's, CD's and magazines to keep their minds active," he said.

"Being isolated at home without something to read can have a very negative impact on someone's wellbeing.

"We are making this service available in a safe and controlled way to help residents through these challenging times."

While library branches remain closed to public access, staff are available to assist those wanting to borrow books, DVD's, CD's and magazines.

"There are strict measures in place to ensure the community and staff are protected from potential infection of COVID-19.

Library staff will be following these guidelines to ensure the borrowing service is very controlled and safe for everyone," the spokesperson said.

Library users can order their books online or by phone and then will be contacted by phone or email with a designated time to pick-up the items.

"There will be no interaction between the staff and the public," the spokesperson said.

"Libray staff will leave the books on a table at the entrance to the library, ready for them to be collected at a designated time."

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Council is reminding residents they are not to make a special trip to the library and should only coordinate the collection with essential businesses such as groceries or medical appointments.

"Remember if you are not doing essential business, you are required to be at home," the spokesperson said.

"Once the items are returned, they will then be taken off the shelf for seven days before being cleaned to mitigate any potential contamination."

The controlled borrowing service is available at the Mareeba and Kuranda branches only. Dimbulah and Chillagoe Library users are encouraged to contact the Mareeba Library to discuss borrowing arrangements.

For assistance phone the Mareeba or Kuranda Library branches.

COOK Shire Council Mayor Peter Scott has been returned to office with 53.24 per cent of the vote.

Peter Scott has served with Cook Shire Council since 2004 as Councillor and 2008 as Mayor.

The 2020 Cook Shire Councillors as of Monday, April 6 (print deadline) with 60.28% counted are – Peter Burns, Marilyn Morris, Robyn Holmes, John Dessmann, Ross Logan and Larissa Hale.

New Mayor for Douglas Shire THE Douglas Shire will have a new Mayor with Michael Kerr securing 55.05% of the vote over incumbent mayor Julia Leu on 44.95%.

With more than 70 per cent of the vote counted the new 2020 Douglas Shire will be made up of councillors – Lisa Scomazzon, Peter Mckeown,

Roy Zammataro and Abigail Julia Leu was elected as the first Mayor for the newly established Douglas Shire Council in 2014 following de-amalgamation and again in 2016.

Michael Kerr has been a Councillor with the Douglas Shire Council since 2016.

Congratulations to Angela on her election to Mayor.

Also congratulations to the councillors elected.

It has been a huge honour and privilege to be one of your elected members for the past 6 years and I hope I have made some difference to you all. Thank you for supporting me and hopefully I will get to see many of you after we get through this crisis. At some stage we will get to see Savannah in the Round happen at which time I will get to work with many of you again. Until then be safe and a huge thank you.

 The information and figures in this story were correct as of print deadline on Monday, April 6, 2020. For the latest information visit www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

New Tablelands Regional Council THE Tablelands Regional Council (TRC) will have some new faces at the table when Council is sworn in on Thursday, April 9.

With more than 75% of the vote counted, former Division 4 councillor Rod Marti has an insurmountable lead over former Deputy Mayor Katrina Mellick with 48.17 per cent of the vote, becoming the new TRC Mayor.

Ms Mellick issued a written

Peter Scott returns as Cook Mayor

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The Express, Wednesday, April 8, 2020 PAGE 5

COVID-19 Update

Library Services While library branches are closed to public access, Council is introducing a new service to help book lovers during this period.

The service will allow users to borrow resources through a safe and controlled collection system.

How it works • Members will be able to reserve items using the usual online catalogue or by telephone.

• Our friendly library staff will email or phone you with a designated time to collect your reserved items. We have strict measures in place to protect you and the community. It is important to collect your items at the designated time to ensure safe and effective borrowing practises.

• Do not make a special trip to the library to collect your items. Incorporate your collection with planned trip for necessities such as groceries or medical supplies. If you are not able to get to the library, our staff are available to discuss alternative arrangements.

• Once you are finished with your item, please return it through the normal shute at the library. Items will be quarantined for 7 days then cleaned before being returned to the collection. Items will be automatically renewed so if you cannot return the item within the normal borrowing period, don’t stress.

The controlled borrowing service is available at the Mareeba and Kuranda branches only. Dimbulah and Chillagoe Library users are encouraged to contact the Mareeba library to discuss borrowing arrangements.

Become a member today!

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Phone: 4086 4622 or 4086 4623 Email: mareebal@msc.qld.gov.au

Kuranda

Phone: 4093 9185 or 4086 4729 Email: kurandal@msc.qld.gov.au

www.msc.qld.gov.au PAGE 6 The Express, Wednesday, April 8, 2020

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

Police working to support communities during COVID Tougher fines

Tablelands Patrol Group Inspector Russell Rhodes asks the community to remian calm and courteous during the coronavirus pandemic.

THE outbreak of COVID-19 (coronavirus) is continuing to cause concern within in the community.

With our normal way of life now restricted to help limit the spread of the disease and with new laws introduced, Tablelands Patrol Inspector Russell Rhodes has asked residents to remain calm and courteous.

“Unfortunately sporting meetings, restaurants and social

groups have been cancelled, but we would like people to remain positive and respectful at all times,” Inspector Rhodes said.

“People can still go to the shops, but you must stay at home as much as possible and comply with social distancing and self isolations rules.

“Police are responding daily to either questions or enquiries about people who may not be complying with the rules that

the government has laid down.”

Mr Rhodes said police have already issued warnings to people who are not compliant.

“We haven’t had to fine anyone yet on the Tablelands, but we did talk to a person who was doing their 14-day isolation who left the house to get some money,” he said “We were able to give them a warning as they ended up testing negative.

“We are still doing lots of street patrols to make sure everybody is doing the right thing, we are here to support and help the welfare of everyone in our community.”

Tablelands Police are doing street patrols to make sure everybody is compliant.

Police will continue to work with the community to ensure the safety of all during this time.

LAST week the first fines for flouting new COVID-19 laws were handed out last week to a Queensland business. Two infringement notices were issued for failing to comply with COVID-19 public health directives.

Police Commissioner Katarina Carroll said a person working at the business was fined $1334, while the business itself copped a $6672 fine.

The fines were handed out after Prime Minister Scott Morrison and state and territory leaders agreed to further tighten the rule around indoor and outdoor public gatherings from 10 to two.

Queensland Police are now able to issue infringement notices of up to $13,345 for individuals and $66,672 for businesses who failed to abide by quarantine directions.

In a statement Queensland police said this included people "deliberately flouting self-isolation directions, holding unlawful mass gatherings or conducting non-essential business."

Officers can also issue on the spot fines of $1334 for individuals and $6,672 for businesses that fail to abide by state health directions. “The community should expect an increased number of officers checking on people under public health directions and taking action against those who did not comply.”

Locals spread kindness with selfless deeds WHILE people around the country are divided and fighting over a pack of toilet paper, Biboohra locals Victoria and Simon Crosby witnessed such a fight and decided to do whatever they could to assist those in need.

The Hungry Pug Cafe owners have lived in Biboohra for 33 years and boast a healthy connection and sense of community spirit.

What started out a selfless act born out of a want to help others sprung into an infectious movement which saw not only them, but others do what they could for each other.

Their first act of Kindness went to the team at Coles Mareeba.

“You could feel the tension in Coles and almost every time we went we would see somebody getting abused,” Victoria said.

“We decided to send up something to put a smile on their face – so we delivered some morning tea platters.

“We didn’t expect it to snowball into what is happening now.”

After that first kind hearted donation both Simon and Victoria started doing more and more

Hungry Pug Cafe Coowner Simon Crosby has been doing all he can for the local community with kind hearted deeds over the past weeks.

for the community.

From sending emergency lunches to Mareeba State School, all the way to giving out free food and sweets after a ca-

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

tering event was cancelled.

“It’s all about putting a smile on someone's face,” Simon said.

“No one ever went out of business by being too nice.

“We try and do something everyday to brighten someone's day.”

Both Simon and Victoria view this as a way to help repay

the support and kindness that the Mareeba community has shown them and they will continue to do all they can to brighten the spirits of the community.

Stronger QLD border controls implemented QUEENSLAND border restrictions have been tightened across the state to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

Now anyone who is not a Queensland resident or considered exempt from the restrictions will not be able to enter Queensland. People with an exemption must have a border pass before crossing the border.

If you do not have a border pass then you will be turned around.

The new rules replace older rules that allowed anyone who arrived in Queensland from another State to self-quarantine for 14 days. Now anyone without a permit or Queensland residence will not be allowed in the state via road, air, sea or rail.

Freight transport services are exempt and will be allowed through without a border pass permit.

Those living outside of Queensland who provide critical services to Queensland are considered exempt. This includes – National/state security, essential health services, Emergency services, Transport of goods or freight including food, Critical maintenance/repair to critical infrastructure in Queensland, federal, state or local government workers who are required to enter Queensland to perform official duties and Construction, mining/energy/agribusinesses.

Additional restrictions are also in place for FIFO workers who live interstate and work in Queensland. From now on only critical resource sector employees will be allowed to enter Queensland from interstate to do their work. These are employees critical to the ongoing operation of a resource activity or the resource supply chain and are detailed on the Queensland Health website.

Queensland Health also announced that there are allowances on compassionate grounds, as well as specific exemptions for those living outside of Queensland. The allowances include – carers/relatives of dependant individuals in Queensland, the need to obtain essential medical treatment including visiting terminally ill relatives in Queensland, if you are interstate boarding school students where school is closed and are required to comply with the law to travel to Queensland (for example, Family Court, parole/bail conditions etc.).

Queensland Police Commissioner Katarina Carroll said police were appreciative of the cooperation shown by the majority of motorists during the border crossing process.

“We know the border controls have caused some delays on the roads, however, we are very grateful for the majority of drivers who have been cooperative and followed police directions,” Commissioner Carroll said.

“The stronger measures will reduce the need for police to conduct follow-up quarantine checks for those who are directed to self-isolate when crossing the border.

“Importantly, penalties may apply to any non-Queensland resident without an exemption who enters the state.”

For more information about border restrictions and exemptions visitwww.qld.gov.au/ about/newsroom/queenslandborder-restrictions

The Express, Wednesday, April 8, 2020 PAGE 7

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143 WALSH STREET, MAREEBA  4092 3300 PAGE 8 The Express, Wednesday, April 8, 2020

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

Government backflips on guns AFTER announcing that gun shops and armourers were to close after not being deemed an essential service, the State Government has backflipped after pressure from several country MPs. The latest direction from the Chief Health Officer is that licensed armourers and dealers may store, modify, repair, acquire or supply weapons and ammunition to specific groups.

Agriculture Minister Mark Furner said the direction provides clarity and certainty for those industries and individuals who need licensed armourers and licensed dealers to carry out their work.

“This is a sensible decision which will allow our agriculture sector to get on with the job of feeding Queenslanders,” the Minister said.

“To do that, our primary producers need access to firearms to properly manage pests on their properties.”

The new direction allows licensed armourers and licensed dealers to provide weapons and ammunition to commercial pest controllers or feral animal controllers, vets, shark control contractors, and a number of other state and federal bodies.

Local Gunshop owner, Tex O’Brien, from Tex Gun Supplies in Tolga says the original decision was made with no warning or consultation.

“They just announced that we had to close down almost immediately,” he said “The government said that we weren't an essential service.

Well, what about dress shops

xxxxxx

and jewellery shops?"

Even with the restrictions lifted and gun stores now able to open for business, Tex claims that due to the shrunken customer base that the government has approved, he is still going to struggle to stay open.

“We are now only allowed to sell to primary producers or people who need guns for work.

I can’t sell to recreational or sporting shooters. That’s about

75% of my business gone,” he said “All the pistol and rifle competitions have also been suspended so that’s another part of my business gone as well.”

Member for Hill Shane Knuth said it’s common sense for firearm dealers to be classed as an essential service.

“I’m glad common sense has prevailed, but I am disappointed that they have not included the

recreational aspects to this as they already have social distancing aspects in place,” Mr Knuth said.

“Licensed Armours and Dealers provide farmers, graziers, feral pest control workers and hunters in Queensland with the tools to control feral pests which are costing this state hundreds of millions of dollars.

“The agriculture industry is a $15 billion primary industry

which includes the banana industry which uses guns to shoot feral pigs to control the spread of Panama disease from property to property.”

He said it was frustrating when politics was used to close all gun stores across the state, while decision-makers cheered on mass gatherings during the local election.

Calls for landlords and tenants to work together THE Australian Government has announced new measures to help renters. Evictions will be put on hold over the next 6 months for commercial and residential tenancies in financial distress, who are unable to meet their commitments due to the impact of the Coronavirus.

The impacts of COVID-19 have been felt throughout the Australian society and economy with many hard working Australians being laid off.

Now coupled with the serious advice that people stay inside whenever possible and only venture out for the essentials, people are wondering how to make ends meet.

The Australian Government, together with the states and territories have agreed on a common set of principles, which include a short term, temporary moratorium on eviction for non-payment of rent to be applied across commercial tenancies impacted by severe rental distress.

The PM encourages commercial tenants and landlords to sit down and agree on arrangements that benefit everyone in this time of crisis.

“We need landlords and tenants to sit down and come up with arrangements that enable them to get through this crisis so on the other side,” he said.

WE’RE OPEN!

With the Coronavirus restrictions in place, Containers for Change are advising that they are open for business.

Recycling efforts are focused on drinks generally consumed away from home (eg. soft drinks, water bottles, small flavoured milk).

Drink containers generally consumed only at home (eg. cordial, plain milk, wine and spirit bottles, condiments and cleaning) are excluded.

Be sure that the containers are empty and have the caps off.

The Mareeba Depot is adhering to the strict health and safety guidelines advised by Federal and State Governments including physical distancing, ensuring sites are clean and implementing best-practice personal and professional hygiene standards.

You don’t even have to get out of your car as the staff will gladly take care of everything while you wait.

The Mareeba Depot will also organise for collection across the Tablelands for clubs, pubs and organisations that have bulk containers.

WE ARE OPEN! Drive into our Depot Bowers Street, Mareeba Earn some extra cash and bring your eligible containers to us.

All COVID-19 regulations are in place...

You don’t even have to get out of your car.

Don’t leave them laying around your house...

. k n a b e th in h s a c e m o Put s Bower Street Depot Mareeba Is open till 4pm each day!

Angie from Cash 4 Containers. www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

Phone 4017 6779 The Express, Wednesday, April 8, 2020 PAGE 9

How to look after your mental wellbeing during COVID-19

During these tough times, nearly all of us are in some sort of lockdown or self-isolation.

With all of this going on, the government is encouraging us to occasionally get outside and go for a walk for our physical health and wellbeing, but what about our mental health?

Below are some tips keep your mind healthy and free on anxiety during the COVID-19 Crisis IT'S IMPORTANT TO FIND BALANCE WHILE STAYING INFORMED DURING A CRISIS In a crisis, the endless stream of news headlines can sometimes feel overwhelming. It’s on TV, social media, newspapers and magazines, and it’s often talked about in our social circles too.

News is now 24/7, and we’re more connected to it than ever before. While there are benefits to staying up-to-date with the news, too much can take a toll on our mental wellbeing. Here are a few ways to find balance while staying informed during a crisis.

READ TRUSTWORTHY NEWS SOURCES Anyone can publish information online, but that doesn’t make it true. Consider where you’re getting your news updates from – is it a reputable source? Who is best placed to provide accurate and up-to-date information on the issue? During health emergencies, the World Health Organization, the Australian Government Department of Health, and Queensland Health are best placed to provide you SET NEWS LIMITS News is available everywhere, which means it can be hard to switch off. If you feel that you’re preoccupied by the news, consider setting yourself reasonable limits.

You could start your day by reading a book or going for a walk, rather than checking the news or your social media feed, avoid checking the news before going to bed, especially on your phone or TV, set a limit on how many times you check the news each day, and how long you spend reading about the issue and delete your social media apps, turn off notifications or download an app that helps you limit social media use.

It’s understandable that conversations often revolve around current events but remember it’s ok to not want to talk about it all the time. Just make sure you’re not bottling up your feelings or concerns and seek support when you need it.

READ GOOD NEWS STORIES TOO Alarming headlines are often front and centre when there’s a crisis but remember there’s still a lot of good happening all around us. If you’re checking for updates on the current event, try to read a good news story as well. Positive news doesn’t diminish a crisis, but it can help give us a sense of balance and support our mental wellbeing.

KEEP PERSPECTIVE Remember that crises swamp the headlines because they are so infrequent and out of the ordinary – this is what makes them newsworthy.

Worldwide, we have more knowledge and better technology than at any point in history.

This means we’ve never been more prepared to handle crises than we are right now, and this capability will only continue to improve.

During the rare times when a crisis occurs, everyone has a role to play in achieving the best possible outcomes. Consider what is within your control and focus on what you can do to contribute in a positive way to those around you.

HELP CHILDREN COPE During a crisis, heightened media coverage and ongoing conversations can be distressing for children. They may need help to understand what’s going on in a way that’s appropriate for their age and development.

Here are a few ways to help children cope during a crisis: Limit the amount of media coverage children see, hear and read, if they do watch the news, be there to explain it to them, let them know they can ask you questions anytime, be honest and stick to the facts but don’t provide too much detail, be aware of what you say when children are around, monitor their reactions, and listen to how they feel and what they think and point out the people working to fix the situation.

REASSURE CHILDREN Your own behaviour plays an important role in helping children deal with the current situation.

It’s ok to share your own feelings but show your child that you are managing them. This can help them to build important life skills like resilience. If you are feeling distressed, discuss it with other adults rather than your children.

WHEN TO GET SUPPORT Most people will feel some distress during a crisis – this is normal, and usually resolves naturally within a matter of days or weeks. If you’ve taken steps to support better mental wellbeing but are still feeling stressed, overwhelmed, worried, or just not like your normal self, it’s important to tell someone. This might be someone close to you like a family member, friend or colleague.

You can also talk to your GP or a mental health professional.

If you’ve noticed your child’s behaviour has changed or have concerns about their level of distress, seek help from your GP or other health professional.

TELEPHONE COUNSELLING SERVICES LIFELINE – Counselling services for anyone at anytime. Phone 13 11 14.

KIDS HELPLINE – Telephone and online counselling for young people aged 5-25. Phone 1800 551 800.

SANE HELPLINE – Information, advice and referral for mental illness. Phone 1800 187 263 BEYONDBLUE – Information and referral for depression and anxiety.

Phone 1300 224 636.

PARENTLINE – Support, counselling and education for parents. Phone 1300 301 300.

PANDA – Perinatal anxiety and depression Australia (PANDA) supports women, men and families across Australia affected by anxiety and depression during pregnancy and in the first year of parenthood.

Phone 1300 726 306.

QUEENSLAND HEALTH It’s totally normal to feel concerned when big events happen in the world, said a Cairns and Hinterland Hospital and Health Service spokesperson.

We also know that feeling socially isolated can impact your mental wellbeing. It can make people feel sad, anxious, lonely and depressed.

We want to make sure that during this time, you have ways to stay connected to your family, friends and community, even if you can’t see them in person.

There's a range of advice and resources for people in home isolation on the Queensland Health website.

• www.qld.gov.au/health/mentalhealth/help-lines/1300-mh-call • www.qld.gov.au/health/conditions/ health-alerts/coronavirus-covid-19/ find-the-facts/support Useful tips for staying connected while in isolation are also available on the website.

PAGE 10 The Express, Wednesday, April 8, 2020

Keep the kids entertained WITH COVID-19 stripping away many of the usual activities and sports that are used to entertain and occupy kids time, we now need to find other ways to entertain ourselves.

A healthy mind and a healthy body are some of the most important things that we need to keep an eye on while everyone's social lives are being restricted.

Although parks and other such amenities are closed to the public, this shouldn’t stop you from getting the healthy exercise your body requires.

As long as you are following the guidelines and regulations introduced by the government you can still do activities to keep your mind and body moving.

Activities such as walking around your block, riding a bike and walking your dog are still allowed by the government as long as you comply with the social distancing rules that are in

Some activities you can do with the whole family to keep everyone entertained at home.

place.

Set aside a night in the week to have a family game night – play some board games, charades, watch a movie together or even build a pillow fort.

COVID-19 has taken away our daily work, home and routines, but this temporary time at home with our families won’t last forever. So make the most of it as once this is over we will go back to our normal lives and maybe we will wish for more time at home with our families?

• Board games • Backyard sports (cricket, soccer, football ect.)

• Walking/running around the neighbourhood • Card games • Puzzles • Movie nights • Charades • Get artsy with chalk • Arts and crafts • Play with your child and their toys • Seek an interest in one your child's hobbies • Do a project together • Reminisce through old photos • Take lots of new photos

COVID-19 lockdowns see rise in family violence LOCKDOWNS due to COVID-19 has seen a rise in family violence and an increased strain on already overstretched social support systems.

A new survey of domestic and family violence (DFV) services has found that initial concerns over the impact of coronavirus on the sector are already playing out in an "unprecedented" way.

The report, from Women's Safety NSW, shows there has already been a dramatic increase in both the demand and complexity of DFV cases.

The organisation surveyed 80 frontline workers, coordinators and service providers to see how the virus is affecting DFV support provision — and what measures are urgently needed.

More than 40 per cent of respondents reported that they've already experienced an increase in client numbers since the outbreak of COVID-19. Many others said they expected to see a similar increase soon.

The report also acknowledges the increased risk to children, who are currently home from school.

Amanda Lee-Ross, CEO of Cairns Regional Domestic Violence Service, said that they

had noticed a spike in online searches for domestic violence support.

“Currently we are seeing a downturn in face-to-face meetings regarding domestic violence support due to lockdowns, social distancing and due to some of our staff working from home,” she said “But we are seeing a spike in Google searches for domestic violence support and services, this could be due to the perpetrator being at home, the victim not feeling safe to leave home or people being afraid to breach lockdown rules.

“There may also be an increase in violence at home due to the financial strain on families who are reliant upon income from insecure work.”

Ms Lee-Ross said that people fleeing a violent situation are not liable when it comes to breaching lockdown laws “If anybody needs to leave home due to family or domestic violence they are exempt from any laws regarding self-isolation or social distancing.”

According to the Cairns Regional Domestic Violence website, the following behaviours are some examples of domestic and family violence:

• Physical abuse such as hitting, slapping, punching, biting, kicking or pushing; • Damaging property such as the house, breaking furniture or hurting pets to intimidate and frighten you • Threats to harm children, pets, family members or you • Intimidation and harassment including humiliation, constant criticism, insults, persistent phone calls, following you or staying outside your home or workplace • Forcing you to have sex or take part in sexual acts that you do not want • Withholding necessities of life such as food, money, medical care and the company of family and friend Ms Lee-Ross said anyone who is in a domestic violence situation emergency should call Police on 000 or to access shelter call DVConnect on 1800 811 811. For more information and support you can contact the Cairns Regional Domestic Violence Service at www.dvcairns. org.

The Cairns Regional Domestic Violence Service has offices in Cairns, Mossman, Atherton, Mareeba and Ravenshoe.

Job vacancies across the region HUNDREDS of new jobs and vacancies continue to be advertised in Far North Queensland, despite the severe impact on the nation’s workforce in response to the spread of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19).

Member for Cook Cynthia Lui said while these jobs will help some people get back into work, the Palaszczuk Government is also playing its part.

“This includes working creatively and directly with the manufacturing industry and continuing to work each day to keep as

many Queenslanders as we can in work,” Ms Lui said.

According to SEEK, new jobs are across a range of sectors, including: • Businesses and government departments that are scaling up their call centres in response to a rapid increase in customer and social needs, which is creating jobs for call centre operators, customer care staff, data entry and call centre managers • Aged care workers; this includes roles as drivers, cooks and nurses particularly aged

care and general medical, as well as pharmacists, • Skills in software development and cyber security as businesses adjust to remote working practices • ‘Essential services’ retail for shelf stackers, supply chain managers, warehousing supervisors and people in distribution such a truck drivers • Nannies and tutors, as parents and carers who now need to work from home look for additional support at home with care and education.

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

OFFICIAL MEDICAL ADVICE

Coronavirus: You must take action to save lives in your community.

Stay at home unless absolutely necessary. Banks, supermarkets/groceries, petrol stations, medical services and suppliers will remain open. You must avoid non-essential travel.

If you can, work from home. Use phones for meetings and stop handshaking.

Tap to pay where possible instead of using cash.

Gatherings of 2 people max are being enforced, with the exception of households, work and education.

You must stay 2 arms lengths away from others and wash your hands for 20 seconds.

Exercise away from others.

Authorised by the Australian Government, Canberra www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

CUT OUT AND KEEP The Express, Wednesday, April 8, 2020 PAGE 11

COVID-19

• Rural • Domestic • Commercial • Roofing • Plumbing • Drainage

As an essential service, we are operating as per normal at this stage. The health and safety of our family, clients and community is our main priority.

We have put safety measures in place and we are taking extra precautions before, during and after entering every job site.

We ask, please if you are feeling unwell or are in isolation, to let us know prior to arriving on site.

This is extremely important.

We hope you are all keeping safe during these uncertain times. Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any queries.

- Joel Hilditch

s d n la le b a T g in ic v r e S . . . h Based in Dimbula . s a e r a l a r u r g in d n u o r r u s and PAGE 12 The Express, Wednesday, April 8, 2020

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

Set up at home and ready to learn ALONG with parents all across the country, Mareeba’s Jenni Ward has been thrust into the teaching job.

Queensland schools are now closed for the Easter break and prior to that moved to student free days for the last week of term amid COVID-19. It is unknown at this stage if schools will re-open after Easter.

Homes have now been turned into makeshift schools with children of all ages ready to learn online after the Easter break.

Jenni Ward has been teaching her three children – Maddie, Jammie and Brianna – who are all in different grades and requiring different teaching methods and resources.

Maddie, the youngest goes to Mareeba State School in grade 3, while Jammie and Brianna both go to Mareeba State High School and are in grade 7 and 9 respectively.

A makeshift classroom has been set up in the Ward household living room using old bedside tables to act as desks, and mother, turned teacher Jenni has had a taste of teaching.

“It’s very scary teaching your kids at home,” she said.

“They are all quite far apart so it’s challenging to teach.

“I’m not a teacher and I am also studying full time, so it’s very challenging.”

Jenni has also taken this chance to teach her kids other skills that are not taught in a classroom, which she called “life skills.”

LEARNING FROM HOME: Mareeba mother Jenni Ward has had to adapt to a new homeschooling way of life with her three children – Maddie, Jammie and Brianna Ward.

“I added in our own ‘life skills’ area where I teach them about important skills used in life,” she said.

“I think it’s important to keep kids educated.

“They were excited to do something different.”

Jenni decided to take her kids out of school and start homeschooling a week before the decision was passed down by the

government, so she was initially at a disadvantage using an outdated homeschooling method.

Now with every parent expected to homeschool their child a better curriculum and system

ever way it goes parents across the country have shown their resilience and abilty to adapt to the ever changing COVID-19 situation.

Boating clarified

CLOSED: Tinaroo Dam overflowing in 2019.

PHOTO BK MEDIA

Tinaroo Dam closed to public THERE will be no camping, fishing or skiing at Tinaroo Dam this Easter after it was closed to public use on Tuesday, March 31, until further notice.

Going to the Dam at Easter is usually one of the most popular activities for families, but they will have to wait until next year now in a bid to limit the spread of COVID-19.

Sunwater announced that all recreation areas, lakes and weirs are now closed to public use.

This includes day trips, camping, land and water-based activities and the use of facilities such as toilets, play equipment and BBQ areas.

Fossicking has also joined

has been developed with teachers working very hard trying to get all the information and resources they could online.

It's a wait and see for parents, students and teachers, but which

camping as another activity that has been suspended to try and stop the spread of COVID-19.

Natural Resources and Mines Minister Dr Anthony Lynham today urged council and private camping ground operators to restrict recreational camping on state land, as a shutdown began in the state’s camping and fossicking areas.

“The Queensland Government has closed all campgrounds in national parks, state forests and state-managed recreation and protected areas in response to the COVID-19 outbreak,” Dr Lynham said.

“The expert medical advice the government is receiving is

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

that camping is a significant concern in the current environment and should not continue.

“Fossicking similarly draws people together, usually away from home, at a time when all efforts are being made to encourage social distancing.

“It’s critical that these activities cease, particularly with the Easter school break approaching.”

Queensland has campgrounds on state land that are run by local governments and various lessees.

They stretch from the tip of the Cape in the north, Birdsville in the west to the border in the south.

Fossicking areas include the historic gold rush area of Clermont, the western Queensland opal fields, and the central Queensland gemfields.

Dr Lynham urged organisations operating campgrounds, local governments and landholders in fossicking areas to institute the controls.

The restrictions will apply to short term recreational camping, including holiday makers, travellers and grey nomads.

Dr Lynham assured long term and permanent tenants residing in caravan parks that they were not affected.

IN the wake of the new restrictions about public gatherings of no more than two people congregating at a time and the ban on sporting activities, Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey has clarified the rules for boaties as the evolving COVID-19 crisis.

“If you own a boat and want to head out in the water in your local community to fish for food this weekend, you can,” Mr Bailey said.

“If you need your boat to travel locally in your community, you can still do that.

“If you want to head out on your kayak or stand up paddle board for exercise, you still can.

“State Government boat ramps will remain open to boaties.

“We want people to continue living their lives as normally as possible under the current circumstances, but the advice of the Chief Health Officer needs to be followed.

“No one should be leaving their home unless it’s absolutely necessary.”

Mr Bailey said recent national directives limiting public gatherings to two people or less and limiting travel to essential purposes still applied.

“This isn’t a special rule to let people out on the water for non-essential reasons this weekend,” Mr Bailey said.

“There’s no reason for anyone to be taking the boat out unless it’s for essential travel to get to work, to and from your home, to local shops for provisions or catching fish for your family.

“Even then, there should be no more than two people, or immediate family members on

board, and the social distancing rules everyone is being asked to follow still apply.

“Boaties should also be mindful of hygiene when putting boats in the water at public facilities.”

Mr Bailey encouraged boaties to continue monitoring the national health advice on COVID-19.

“As the nation works together to stop the spread of the virus, there is new advice daily.

“Boaties should be aware of the current restrictions on boat use, and be prepared for that advice to change again, should tougher rules to limit public movements and interaction come in.”

Some of the new rules that have come into effect include: Public gatherings such as fishing are limited to 2 people (other than your direct household).

If you do choose to go fishing, stay close to home.

Keep a distance of 1.5 m from others and practise good hygiene, especially when fuelling up and at boat ramps.

Boaties should also be mindful of hygiene when putting boats in the water at public facilities.

At this point in time, QBFP officers are still patrolling and fishing rules remain in place.

This advice is current as of print deadline and may change in response to new or amended health directions and the government’s response to stopping the spread of COVID-19.

Stay up-to-date with accurate, reliable information by visiting www.health.qld.gov.au/ coronavirus

The Express, Wednesday, April 8, 2020 PAGE 13

Community Bank • Mareeba & Dimbulah

We're here for you Your local Bendigo Bank branch remains open to help see you through COVID-19.

If you need to see us in person, we're asking you to: • Visit only if you're feeling well • Call ahead to book a time if possible • Practice safe distancing Call us on 4092 0999 or 4093 5266 or search Bendigo Bank Mareeba & Dimbulah bendigobank.com.au

Bendigo and Adelaide Bank Limited ABN 11 068 049 178, AFSL 237879 A1389134, OUT_1143525, 03/04/2020

PAGE 14 The Express, Wednesday, April 8, 2020

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

OFFICIAL GOVERNMENT SUPPORT

Financial assistance is now available to support individuals, households and businesses.

From keeping Australians in jobs and businesses in business with the $130 billion JobKeeper Payment, to assisting individuals and households with a doubling of income support, we’re helping Australians during the Coronavirus.

To find out more, visit australia.gov.au Authorised by the Australian Government, Canberra www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

The Express, Wednesday, April 8, 2020 PAGE 15

ExprEss kids A fun way to keep the kids entertained while at home

Salt Dough Rainbow Easter Colouring in Competition

It’s time to spread a bit of Easter cheer! Keep the kids occupied, break out the colouring pencils, pens, paint or glitter and get them colouring. Once looking colourful and picture perfect, snap a photo and send it to us either via a Facebook message or email admin@theexpressnewspaper.com.au. We will be picking a winner on Good Friday, April 10 and will arrange for an Easter Gift to be delivered to the winner.

Looking for some fun, fresh ideas to keep the kids occupied at home these school holidays? Now, more importantly than ever, it is so important that we are all playing our part and staying home except for essential trips as specified by the Queensland and Federal Governments. Here is a fun and simple art and craft project you can do from home with minimal supplies.

Ingredients 1 cup salt 2 cups of flour ¾ cup of water

Method 1. In a large bowl mix salt and flour together.

2. Gradually add the water and stir in. Mix well until it forms a doughy consistency.

3. Turn the dough onto the bench and knead with your hands until smooth and combined.

4. Make your creations using the salt dough, we like the idea of rolling your dough into 7 different length sausages and placing them in the shape of a rainbow.

5. Place the salt dough creations/ rainbow into the oven to harden at 180 degrees C. The amount of time needed to bake depends on the size and thickness of the salt dough creation – approx. 1-2 hours, if still doughy put back in for another hour until hard.

6. Once cooled the kids can go to town and decorate with acrylic paints, glue and if you are feeling brave, GLITTER! Note: if you are doing the rainbow a reminder the colours are: red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo and violet.

Have fun and we hope this simple recipe keeps the kids busy for a few hours.

We would love to see all the creations, email a photo to admin@thexpressnewspaper.com.au or share them to Facebook and tag The Express Newspaper.

Around the home scavenger hunt  1 piece of rubbish (not from the bin)  2 different coloured clothes pegs  a twig bigger than your big finger  a 50 cent coin  a shopping receipt  a business card  one square of toilet paper

 a key  a USB stick  make a paper airplane  draw a self portrait  a matching pair of thongs  a piece of string/wool the length of your arm

 a flower or leaf  an old toy  a blue piece of clothing  a book  a red or pink pencil or crayon  a salt or pepper shaker  a plastic cup

See how many of the above you can collect around your home!!!!

PAGE 16 The Express, Wednesday, April 8, 2020

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

PROPERTY HOUSES l LAND l UNITS l INVESTMENTS l ACREAGE l FARMS l RENTALS

The Amaroo way of life

A 1068M2 residential house site with a generous 22 metre frontage, providing ample room for landscaping, shed, a pool and plenty of space for friends and family to gather.

This exclusive Tropic Coast Homes design – the “Durack” features 233m2 impeccably designed floor plan, built to thorough standards.

This unique, modern house and land package* offers plenty of space both indoors and out. An ideal family retreat and entertainers delight featuring generously proportioned open design.

Multiple flowing living areas seamlessly merge with the alfresco entertainment area delivering a relaxed and balanced atmosphere.

Contemporary interiors showcase the finest in fixtures and finishes, complimented by the designer kitchen, including a generous allowance for you to design your own kitchen to suit your own tastes.

Four bedrooms serviced by two stylish bathrooms and the master retreat features a spacious WIR, with built-ins in the other bedrooms. The family bathroom includes a bathtub, and separate toilet.

A terrific deal at $412,420 – Land price $117,500 for 1069m2 and house price$294,920 (TC Homes QBCC 1089966).

Don’t forget if you are a first home buyer there is $15,000 available to qualified buyers. *House and land are sold on separate contracts. Picture is an artists’ impression and may vary from the finished product/ Not under construction-proposed for construction as an indication only.

Proposed house and land package on Lot 82, Moondani Avenue

Contact Deb today for more information on 0409 321 000. www.amarooestate. com.au showcases all available lots and plans or visit our Facebook page for regular updates.

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

The Express, Wednesday, April 8, 2020 PAGE 17

PROPERTY

Hard to find… impossible to forget INSPECTIONS AVAILABLE BY PRIVATE APPOINTMENT

THIS impressive, sizeable four bedroom plus office family home is ideally situated on a 1750m2 allotment in the sought after area of Ceola Estate. The spectacular resi-

dence is inclusive of every desirable extra, quality built with attention to detail this home oozes style, space and sophistication.

Features include:

• Magnificent front portico entryway • 4 Bedrooms plus office, generous open family/dining area plus separate closable media room – approx 300m2

under roof • Freshly painted externally • Fully tiled throughout with stunning, low maintenance 600mm x 600mm tiles

• Fully air-conditioned throughout with split system air-conditioning • Stylish master bedroom with walk through robe and impressive his and hers ensuite • Elegant kitchen with seamless Hi-Mac bench tops, 900mm stainless steel oven, gas cooktop and dishwasher • Office with built-in desk and cabinetry • Main bathroom with external vanity • Sizeable laundry with built-in cabinetry and above cupboards • Built-in robes in all bedrooms and large hallway storage cupboards • Security screens and tinted windows throughout • Generous tiled rear patio directly off the living area plus extended timber deck Address: Price: Agent: Contact:

and entertainment area with shade sail coverage • 5000L rainwater tank plumbed to the kitchen sink • 6KW Solar power system • 9m x 7m colourbond shed with 3 roller door access, insulated roof and fixed shelving plus 9m x 4m lean-to • 1750m2 fully fenced and beautifully landscaped allotment with automatic irrigation • Coloured concrete driveway It's hard to find a home of this caliber that's built with quality and style, yet still practical for the family.

An inspection is a must.

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

32 Jacinta Crescent, MAREEBA $560,000 NEG EXCLUSIVE to Joe Torrisi Joe Torrisi Real Estate 0417 700 468

Life’s a breeze at River Drive 6 BRAND NEW DISPLAY HOMES FOR SALE @ AMAROO VARYING SIZES, DESIGNS & FEATURES

• 4 ALLARA STREET • 8 ALLARA STREET • 14 DANDALOO CLOSE • 12 MOONDANI AVENUE • 14 MOONDANI AVENUE • 17 JANNALI COURT

4

2

2

4

2

2

4

2

2

4

2

2

4

2

2

4

2

2

$439,000 NEG $495,000 NEG $469,000 NEG $459,000 NEG $459,000 NEG $469,000 NEG

INSPECTIONS AVAILABLE

BY PRIVATE APPOINTMENT EXCLUSIVE AGENT JOE TORRISI 0417 700 468 | www.joetorrisi.com.au

OPPORTUNITY NOW! 17 Jebreen Street, Mareeba • Split level home • 3 bedrooms with airconditioning • Tidy kitchen • Garden shed • Fully fenced • Pool • Minutes to schools and CBD

$170,000 - Aurelia 0418 183 555

4092 5255 PAGE 18 The Express, Wednesday, April 8, 2020

IN a whisper quiet street, capturing the River breezes this home sits perfectly positioned in a family friendly culde-sac, located only a short distance to the CBD. The home is warm and welcoming with its timber entry double doors and timber and stone features. A wonderful family home that offers generous living rooms and is a safe and private haven backing onto a lash green backdrop.

The practical floor plan is centered around the modern kitchen featuring loads of bench space and heaps of storage. The adjoining dining room and lounge room both open out onto the patio area.

Features Include: • 4 Bedrooms • Master bedroom with walk-in-robe and ensuite

• Separate lounge room that captures the river breezes • Open plan living, kitchen and dining complete with air conditioning • Kitchen with survey to patio area and walk in pantry.

• Main bathroom with separate bath and shower • Separate toilet • Fly screens throughout • Ceiling fans to all living areas • Fenced rear yard • 988m2 block with Garden Shed • Air conditioning to living Address: Price: Agent: Contact:

area and master bedroom • Side access, plenty of room for a large shed or pool Representing family value in a superb breezy, whisper quiet location on a unique block. Act now.

To book private inspection of this property, contact Aurelia Rogato today on 0418 183 555.

4 River Drive, MAREEBA $359,000 Aurelia Rogato Rogato Real Estate 0418 183 555

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

PROPERTY

Bargain price, top location

Is this the cheapest house in Mareeba?

YES, the home needs renovating but this three bedroom, one bathroom home is in a great location on the Atherton side of the Mareeba CBD and only a hop, skip and jump away from shops, medical and schools.

One of the outstanding features of this property is that there are only two immediate neighbours which are on either side, but around the back, the lovely acreage outlook is a real winner.

With scattered trees, the adjoining property is the per-

fect place to take the dog for a walk or just to sit and admire the birdlife.

Ideal for a tradie, it would also suit anyone who is looking at taking on a renovation project at an affordable price.

Make no mistake the owner wants it sold so don't delay – priced $148,000 negotiable.

Contact exclusive agent John Goncalves at Ray White Mareeba on 0407 690 961.

BEAUTIFUL HOME, HUGE SHED, PRIVATE SETTING

Address: Price: Agent: Contact:

MAREEBA $148,000 NEG EXCLUSIVE to John Goncalves Ray White Mareeba 0407 690 961

• Private 5 acres ideal for animals or hobby farm • Well cared for spacious 3 bedroom block home • Ensuite bathroom in master bedroom • Evaporative air cooling system throughout • Large 17m x 7m shed with power • Solar panel power system • Double garage with direct access into home Price: $585,000 Neg Contact Exclusive Agent John Goncalves 0407 690 961

raywhiteruralmareeba.com.au/qld/mareeba

GREAT LOCATION, GREAT PRICE!

INCOME GENERATING 5X UNIT COMPLEX

QUALITY HOME IN TOP LOCATION!

• Solid 3 bedroom masonry block home with built-ins • Airconditioning to 2 bedrooms and living • Security screens • Back patio • 2 bay 6m x 6m shed on 809m2 with fenced backyard Phone John Goncalves For Inspections 0407 690 961

• 5x 2 bedroom masonry block units • 5 separate titles but with NO body corporate • Low vacancy rate over the years • Current rents are $225 per week per unit • Close to schools, medical and Mareeba town centre • Potential to renovate and improve the rent income Is there a better investment in Mareeba?

Price: $875,000 Neg Contact Exclusive Agent John Goncalves 0407 690 961

• Rendered block 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom home • Large master bedroom with ensuite and walk-in robe • Fully tiled floors and security screens • Airconditioned in living, master and 2nd bedroom • Tiled back patio overlooking fenced backyard • Tiled double lock-up garage with remote • Wonderful 1069m2 block... enough room for shed or pool Price: $359,000 Contact Exclusive Agent John Goncalves 0407 690 961

raywhiteruralmareeba.com.au/qld/mareeba

raywhiteruralmareeba.com.au/qld/mareeba

raywhiteruralmareeba.com.au/qld/mareeba

Price: $269,000 Neg

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

The Express, Wednesday, April 8, 2020 PAGE 19

INDEX

business A Air Conditioning & Refrigeration B Blinds C

DIRECTORY

Childcare D Dental E Electrical F

Floor Coverings G General Engineering Graphic Design H

AIR CONDITIONING

Hardware I Irrigation I.T M Mowing

CHILDCARE

Services P Painter Pest Management Plumbing

ELECTRICAL

GENERAL ENGINEERING

LIC. 55472 | ARC. AU31673

Authorised Fujitsu Service Agent

M: 0409 648 403 • F: 4092 1629

www.donhall.com.au

ABN 80 179 825 363 • QBSA 59712 • ARC License AU24014 • Electrical License No: 78958

R & C AIRCONDITIONING & REFRIGERATION

• Airconditioning Installations • Cold Rooms • Fridge Seals • Gasing • Servicing & Maintenance • Authorised Artic Licence

info@mareebakidscampus.com.au www.mareebakidscampus.com.au 3 Locations in Mareeba: Constance, Dunlop & Hastie Streets Early Learning • Kindergarten • Outside School & Vacation Care

MAREEBA DENTURE SERVICE Paul Johnstone

DENTAL TECHNICIAN DENTAL PROSTHETIST

WN E D LOCALLY O ATED R E P O AN D

(07) 4092 4146 mareeba@electrical.obrien.com.au

QBCC No. 1275266

124 Mason Street, Mareeba  (07) 4092 2433 • Fax (07) 4092 3126

obrien.com.au

FOR $36 PER WEEK this spot could be yours!

ELECTRICAL SOLAR & BATTERIES AIR CONDITIONING

Phone the Express today 4092 3464

Registration No. 931417

YOUR LOCAL BUSINESS GUIDE

• Full and Partial Dentures • Relines and Repairs • Mouthguards Private Health Fund Rebates Apply Veteran Affairs Provider

ABN: 61 788 170 092 LIC. NO: L012565 ArtIC LIC: AU21630 QBSA: 1220582

CLEANING

All types of welding, lathe work and milling.

DENTAL

Call Ross Malfitana Mobile: 0429 898 657

AIR-CONDITIONER

GENERAL ENGINEERING

O’Brien Electrical Mareeba

Shop 4, 276 Byrnes St, Mareeba • PO Box 1034 Mareeba 4880

P: 4092 3019

T Transport Tree Lopping V Venue Hire

Pool Maintenance S Sandblasting/ Painting Security

PH/FAX: 4092 2464 • MOB: 0402 809 556 Email: choppers@qld.chariot.net.au 4 Warren Street, Mareeba Q 4880

GRAPHIC DESIGN FLOOR COVERINGS

n cool air Breath clea mes first! ne co where hygie Lic. No. LO21176

COOL AIR Servicing the Tablelands, Cooktown, Mossman, Dimbulah and everywhere in-between.

R

G

DAVE’S

FOR $41 PER WEEK this spot could be yours!

Phone the Express today 4092 3464

Phone DAVID AVOLIO on 0409 924 006

YOUR LOCAL BUSINESS GUIDE BLINDS

YOUR LOCAL BUSINESS GUIDE

159 Walsh St, Mareeba P: 4092 5466 M: 0419 736 229

this spot could be yours!

Vertical & Venetian Blinds Panel Glides > Timber Blinds

Phone the Express today 4092 3464 Supply & Fit

Advertising has never been more affordable!

HARDWARE RAVENSHOE HARDWARE • Hardware • Plumbing • Flat Pack Kitchens • Paint • Nursery 19 Wormboo Street • Giftware • Jaycar raven@iig.com.au • Building Materials • White Goods 4097 6208

YOU CAN AFFORD TO ADVERTISE IN THE EXPRESS DIRECTORY

WITH PRICES STARTING AT JUST $36 PER WEEK!!

Call Natasha Burton today on 4092 3464 or email: admin@theexpressnewspaper.com.au to find out more!

PAGE 20 The Express, Wednesday, April 8, 2020

Creating high quality artwork with a difference for your business!

YOUR LOCAL BUSINESS GUIDE

Supply & Lay FREE Measure & Quote

FOR $36 PER WEEK

IG

Phone: 0458 965 784 or 4096 5784 Email: aemgraphicdesign1@bigpond.com

Carpet & Vinyl > Carpet & Vinyl Tiles > Floating Floors

MAREEBA FLOOR COVERING CENTRE

HIC D ES

• Business Cards • Logo Design • Brochures • Posters • Flyers

Trust the FLOOR Covering Man!

Trust the BLIND specialists!

159 Walsh St, Mareeba P: 4092 5466 M: 0419 736 229

Mareeba 4092 2800 Atherton 4091 3300

FLOORS

BLINDS

MAREEBA FLOOR COVERING CENTRE

Carpet • Vinyl • CeramiCs Floating Floors • Blinds

AP

N

 All Brands  Prompt Service  Installation Also Available 

DIRECTORY www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

business

DIRECTORY

IRRIGATION

PAINTER

POOL MAINTENANCE

TRANSPORT

M. HARTLEY PTY LTD TRADING AS

BELL HARTLEY & CO. IrrIgatIon DesIgn & supply

PAINTING CONTRACTORS

P: 4092 1179 M: 0418 184 147 E: markterri70@bigpond.com

• Pumps Sales & Repairs • Filtration • Water Tanks & Troughs • Water Treatment • Pool Treatments • Solar Pumping Systems • Reinke Centre Pivot & Lateral Move Irrigators 50 Byrnes Street, Mareeba Phone 4092 7788

The Express Newspaper delivers to:

PO BOX 1414, MAREEBA

NO OBLIGATION QBCC 1115490 FREE QUOTES!

POOL MAINTENANCE & POOL SHOP 71 BYRNES STREET, MAREEBA “WE OFFER A COMPLETE ON SITE POOL SERVICE” ALL POOL SUPPLIES INCLUDING FREE WATER TESTING AND EXPERT ADVICE

P: 4092 1443 or 0413 013 297

LICENSED POOL SAFET Y INSPECTOR

Locally Owned and Operated ALL TYPES OF FREIGHT DELIVERY LARGE AND SMALL: 4 TIMES DAILY! CAIRNS, MAREEBA, TABLELANDS AND SURROUNDS

FARM DELIVERIES WELCOMED!

TELEPHONE: 4092 7680

PEST MANAGEMENT

FOR $41 PER WEEK

Mareeba, Dimbulah, Kuranda, Walkamin, Tolga,

Excellence Through Perseverance and Diligence Wally Amory - Mareeba Depot Manager Phone: 0421 839 353 mrboperations@exodas.com.au

this spot could be yours!

Atherton, Kairi, Malanda, Millaa Millaa, Yunga-

Phone the Express today 4092 3464

burra, Ravenshoe, Herberton, Koah, Speewah,

TREE LOPPING

Mutchilba, Almaden, Chillagoe, Biboohra, Mt Molloy, Julatten, Mt Carbine, Cooktown, Lakeland,

71 Vaughan Street, Mareeba

Laura, Normonton, Mt Surprise, Mt Garnet, Croy-

SANDBLASTING/ PAINTING

don, Forsayth, Einsleigh, Karumba, Georgetown, Cairns, Mossman, Port Douglas

Sandblasting & Painting

and many more in between!

I.T

Farm Machinery, Ute Trays, Trailers, Structural Steel, Rims and more.

FOR $41 PER WEEK this spot could be yours!

AINT QUALIT Y PION T PROTEC ED GUARANTE

Phone the Express today 4092 3464

TABLELANDS TREELOPPING

• Treelopping • Bobcat Hire • Wood Chipping • Free Quotes • Stump Grinding • Fully Insured PENSIONER DISCOUNTS

Call Jon Lambert

P: 4091 5008 M: 0407 575 916

QBCC No. 1275266

124 Mason Street, Mareeba  (07) 4092 2433 • Fax (07) 4092 3126

YOUR LOCAL BUSINESS GUIDE

SECURITY

PLUMBING

MOWING SERVICES

• Patrols • Cash in Transit • Alarm Response & Installation • Alarm Monitoring • CCTV Installation & Service For all security needs call... DRU THURSTON 0408 913 063 W: www.nqpssecurity.com.au - E: dru@nqpssecurity.com.au

ABN 40955770791

QBCC 15093635 ABN 63 148 132 843

Servicing Atherton Tablelands • Fully Insured

FOR $41 PER WEEK this spot could be yours!

FOR $36 PER WEEK

PROFESSIONAL TREE SERVICE SERVICING NORTH QUEENSLAND

Phone the Express today 4092 3464

this spot could be yours!

Phone the Express today 4092 3464

P: 4095 4595

E: aataylorstreelopping@outlook.com

The Express Newspaper delivers to:

TRANSPORT

P & M Carriers  Taxi Trucks - Tail-Lifters  Express Couriers

Mareeba, Dimbulah, Kuranda, Walkamin, Tolga, Atherton, Kairi, Malanda, Millaa Millaa, Yungaburra, Ravenshoe, Herberton, Koah, Speewah, Mutchilba, Almaden, Chillagoe,

 Freight Distribution  Warehouse Storage

Biboohra, Mt Molloy, Julatten, Mt Carbine,

CAIRNS • MOSSMAN • TABLELANDS DAILY

Cooktown, Lakeland, Laura, Normonton,

YARRABAH SERVICE TWICE WEEKLY Email: admin@pmcarriers.com 247 Hartley Street, Portsmith

4035 2034

CASH OR ACCOUNT CUSTOMERS WELCOME

Mt Surprise, Mt Garnet, Croydon, Forsayth, Einsleigh, Karumba, Georgetown, Cairns,

Advertising has never WITH PRICES STARTING AT JUST $36 PER WEEK!! been more affordable!

Mossman, Port Douglas and many more in between!

YOU CAN AFFORD TO ADVERTISE IN THE EXPRESS DIRECTORY

Call Natasha Burton today on 4092 3464 or email: admin@theexpressnewspaper.com.au to find out more!

PAGE 21 The Express, Wednesday, April 8, 2020

DIRECTORY www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

CLASSIFIEDS phone us: 4092 3464

email us: admin@theexpressnewspaper.com.au

Church Notice

Funeral

Butcher

In accordance with heightened social distancing restrictions in response to the current national health alert, people interested in attending the Presbyterian worship times this weekend are encouraged to conduct private worship at home, using materials that can be supplied.

DEBBIE BOARDMAN

BILL Black Mobile Butcher. Hang up to 7 days. 0408 922 812.

EASTER THEME #2 AND #3 GOOD FRIDAY 10TH APRIL: THE NIGHT OF DENIL RESURRECTION SUNDAY 12TH APRIL: CHRIST IS RISEN “He is not here; for He is risen.” (Matthew 28:6)

Pets

ADOPT-A-PET Hi Everyone, My name is Shandy.

My mother was red kelpie but I am ashamed to say that I do not know my father! I am totally adorable regardless.

Phone 4092 3060 for more information.

Contact the refuge on 4092 3060 Hickling Avenue, Mareeba

www.mareebaanimalrefuge.com.au

YOUR LOCAL CLASSIFIEDS

Skip Bins

For Sale

SKIP BINS AVAILABLE

UPRIGHT FREEZER

ALL SIZES PHONE 4095 5182

Hisense 280 litre, right hand door, 1 year old, in very good condition.

$500

Phone 4092 4493 or 0447 459 007

HAVE you got a position vacant? Phone 4092 3464 today to discuss advertising.

Q-MSC2020-08 RENEWAL OF RANKIN STREET AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEM Mareeba Shire Council hereby invites written submissions for Design, Supply and Installation of Air Conditioning System at 65 Rankin Street Mareeba.

Tender documents are available on Council’s online e-procurement system, Tenderlink - www.tenderlink.com/msc.

All enquiries or clarifications must be via the online forum which will close 7 days prior to closing time.

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

The closing time for electronic lodgement of Tenders is 2.00pm Tuesday 28 April, 2020.

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

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

Peter Franks CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER PO Box 154 Mareeba, QLD. 4880

CALL The Express Newspaper on 4092 3464 by 4pm every Friday to place for your Classified advertisement.

The ExprEss NEwspapEr delivers to:

Mareeba, Dimbulah, Kuranda, Walkamin, Tolga, Atherton, Kairi, Malanda, Yungaburra, Ravenshoe, Herberton, Koah, Speewah, Mutchilba, Almaden, Chillagoe, Biboohra, Mt Molloy, Julatten, Mt Carbine, Cooktown, Lakeland, Laura, Normonton, Mt Surprise, Mt Garnet, Croydon, Forsayth, Einsleigh, Karumba, Georgetown, Cairns, Mossman, Port Douglas and many more in between!

Would you like to ADVERTISE??

For more info phone 4092 3464

Go on... give US a call on 4092 3464!!

EXPRESSO SUDOKU

Tender

Funeral Celebrant Final farewells with respect.

Phone 0410 328 357

fax us: 4092 6346

Public Notice

Have you fished in the Mitchell Catchment FNQ? If you’ve been fishing in the Mitchell catchment we would like to talk with you.

Your participation will provide valuable information about the experiences of people who fish recreationally in the Mitchell.

PARTICIPANTS CAN CHOOSE TO ENTER A DRAW TO WIN ONE OF 10 $50 GIFT VOUCHERS! Please contact Louise via email: louise.gill@griffithuni.edu.au Or Phone: 0427 067 889

ion! t i d e o k u d Su

UPDATE The Express Newspaper team is doing everything we can do ensure we are playing our part in minimising the risks associated with COVID-19.

Keeping in line with the Australia Government’s directives we have made the move to work from home until further notice.

General Enquires, Classifieds: admin@theexpressnewspaper.com.au Editorial: phil.brandel@theexpressnewspaper. com.au rhys@theexpressnewspaper.com.au, editorial@theexpressnewspaper.com. au Editor: carl@theexpressnewspaper.com.au

PAYMENT INFORMATION: As we will be working remotely any classified or general advertisements will need to be paid via direct deposit. Upon emailing or phoning an advertising through we will issue an invoice with our direct deposit details.

Cash and credit card facilities are not available.

We understand these changes will have an impact on some of the community but we feel it is necessary moving forward to practise social distancing in order to help us as a nation get through to the other side faster.

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4092 3464 PAGE 22 The Express, Wednesday, April 8, 2020

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

EXPRESS SPORT PORT

Golf is back on

While golf is back, those heading to the course are reminded that it’s not the time to grab your mates for a day out. The game is to be played under strict new guidelines...

Mareeba Golf Club Captain Mick Deguara is encouraging people to come and try their hand at golf.

WITH COVID-19 currently cancelling most sports across the country a lot of people are now stuck at home and aren’t

getting their sporting fix.

The Mareeba Golf Club however is still operating and anyone can come along and

have a good day of golf.

After days of on and off again messages, clubs were advised late last week that it was

legal to play golf in Queensland.

Golfers are however required to adhere to the restrictions in place that include social distanc-

Staying active while at home

CROSSFIT Mareeba members are staying active at home. Share the motivation and send us your active photos to admin@theexpressnewspaper.com.au

ing between golfers at all times, only two people per group, only one golfer per golf cart and good hygiene at all times.

Good news is you don’t even have to be a member of the Mareeba Golf Club to enjoy the green, as social players are welcome.

Mareeba Golf Club Captain Mick Deguara is encouraging people to come out and try their hand at golf if they haven’t already.

“We are very grateful that we are still able to function at a lower level during this pandemic,” he said.

“People can still come out and enjoy the course under the new conditions.

“Its a chance for people who can’t pursue their chosen sport to come and try their hand at golf.”

Social players can come and play golf any day of the week, it is $15 a game for social players during the week and $30 on the weekends.

To register to play for a social game just come to the desk at the Mareeba Golf Club and you will be allocated a time for tee off.

Off limits Mareeba Shire Council has closed parks and facilities across the Shire (including the skatepark), following advice and regulations from the Federal Government amid COVID-19.

FOLLOWING further restrictions from the Federal Government to stop the spread of coronavirus, Mareeba Shire Council (MSC) has closed all council playgrounds and outdoor recreation facilities until further notice.

The announcement came last week on Tuesday, March 31 and includes all public exercise equipment as well as the basketball and tennis courts.

The Mareeba Skatepark and council swimming pools have also been closed until further notice from council.

“Under the Federal Govern-

ment's restrictions, outdoor facilities including the Mareeba Skate Park, playgrounds and swimming pools will remain closed until further notice,” a council spokesperson said.

“Mareeba Shire Council is committed to the health and safety of the community and is following direction and advice from the Federal and State Governments to help slow the spread of coronavirus..

“Council is balancing the importance of providing services to the community with protecting the safety of everyone.”

COVID-19 (CORONAVIRUS)

MAREEBA TURF CLUB – IMPORTANT NOTICE RACE DAYS

Racing Queensland has implemented ‘Designated Race Regions’ across Queensland in a bid to further quarantine the industry from the current COVID-19 pandemic UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE, ALL RACE DAYS SCHEDULED FOR MAREEBA WILL BE MOVED TO CAIRNS

VENUE HIRE Following Government Restrictions and to help stop the spread of Coronavirus, Mareeba Turf Club WILL NOT BE OFFERING VENUE HIRE DURING THIS TIME

IF YOU REQUIRE FURTHER INFORMATION PLEASE EMAIL MAREEBATURFCLUB@BIGPOND.COM The health and safety of all is priority and we look forward to welcoming you back to Mareeba Turf Club in the future

PAGE 23 The Express, Wednesday, April 8, 2020

MAREEBA TURF CLUB

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au

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DEMO 19MY MITSUBISHI TRITON GLS 4X4 AUTO DUAL CAB

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HANSEN FORD Andrew Ford: 0417 633 002 - Claude Formoso: 0477 229 949 - Drew McKenzie: 0400 068 700 279 Byrnes Street, Mareeba - 4092 9400 - www.hansenford.com.au

313-315 Byrnes St, Mareeba • 4092 5100 • www.mareebamitsubishi.com.au

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Go Further

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 12 SUBARU IMPREZA 2.0i: CVT AWD sedan, travelled 133,000 kilometres, one local owner, log books and service history, excellent condition and great value .......................................................$11,590  15 HYUNDAI i-MAX: Turbo diesel auto 8 seat wagon, travelled only 47,500 kilometres, ideal family mover with diesel economy, rear parking sensors, in excellent condition ............................$30,990  16 NISSAN X-TRAIL ST: 2.5 litre CVT 4x4 wagon, travelled 89,000 kilometres, local vehicle in good condition, reverse camera .................................................................................$21,490  17 SUZUKI VITARA GL: 1.6 litre auto 5 door wagon, travelled 43,000 kilometres, ex-company vehicle, sat-nav and reverse camera, plenty of factory warranty remaining, excellent condition .............$20,990  16 MAZDA CX-5 MAXX: 2.0 litre auto wagon. travelled 64,300 kilometres, reverse camera, good service history, smart looking vehicle ........................................................................................$22,790

Participating Mitsubishi dealers. Mitsubishi reserves the right to change or extend these offers. See participating dealers for full terms and conditions. Offers available on selected new and demonstrator vehicles purchased between 1 January and 30 April 2020. Excludes Government, Rental and National Fleet customers. Private & ABN holders only. 1. Recommended DRIVE AWAY selling price, including 12 months registration, CTP Insurance, Stamp Duty & Dealer Delivery. † 7 Year Warranty offer available on selected new and demonstrator vehicles. 7 Year/150,000km (whichever occurs first). Service conditions apply. Valid from date of vehicle registration. See mitsubishi-motors.com.au for further information.

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PAGE 24 The Express, Wednesday, April 8, 2020

www.theexpressnewspaper.com.au